Church Action eNewsletter Week of September 14, 2026

[RCCAtl]

God calls us to some things we cannot do alone. 

1. Applications for Elevate Academy at the Bobby Dodd Institute, a paid internship for people with disabilities, are now open. If you are: Between the ages 18–30; Eligible for Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) services or able to private pay; Able to work independently; Committed to developing a transportation plan, you are urged to apply. Through skills-building, confidence development, and strong employer partnerships, interns can achieve sustainable employment and greater independence. Begin Your Elevate Application.

2. Building Bridges takes more than good intentions. In All God’s Children, acclaimed filmmaker Ondi Timoner follows a Brooklyn synagogue and Baptist church over five years, capturing the challenges and possibilities of building understanding across Black and Jewish communities. Screening Tuesday, Sept. 15 at 7:15 p.m. at Tara Theatre. Stay after the screening for a pre-recorded Q&A with director Ondi Timoner and film participants. Find tickets here.

3.Disciplined Disruption: A Nonviolent Response to Injustice. Join The King Center virtually on Sept. 16, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., for an introduction to powerful, peaceful strategies for confronting injustice and inspiring meaningful change. Register today and step into a training that equips, empowers, and inspires.

Register

4.Sacred Friends Interfaith invites you to their free Fall 2026 Zoom program, Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism. This is first of a series on World Religions. Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Sept. 15 – Nov. 3. Those who register for the program will have the opportunity to attend special guided Hindu Temple Visits. Access the Program Schedule, further information, and register at Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism - Registration. If you have questions contact [e-mail].

5.Civilian Response to Active Shooter Training, Thursday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. There is no fee. Sponsored by the Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church, the Atlanta Police Department SWAT Team will lead a one-hour training session with time for Q&A aimed at helping attendees understand the need to create a response plan. The session will cover response options and statistics/current trends in active shooter events. Anyone is welcome to attend. R.s.v.p. by Tuesday, Sept. 15. Sign Up

6.The Inaugural 2026 Community Development Symposium is Sept. 17–18 at the Loudermilk Conference Center. Our faith communities are sitting on an incredible—and often underutilized—assets: land, relationships, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. The question is how we can turn those assets into opportunities for attainable homeownership, housing, economic development, and lasting community investment. You will have the opportunity to hear directly from developers, funders, policymakers, municipal leaders, and faith communities that are already putting these ideas into practice. There is still time to be part of this important conversation. Register for the 2026 Community Development Symposium 

7. Eco-Addendum hike along Kennesaw Mountain’s less traveled Pigeon Hill Trail, where we'll see an unusual diversity of old growth trees and many uncommon species in the woodlands and edges of rock outcrops. Saturday, Sept. 19. For more information and to register click here

8. From the Jung Society: “Psyche in the Sky: Thresholds, Death and the Symbolic Reality of UFO Disclosure” with Joshua Cutchin, a ZOOM online lecture Saturday, Sept. 19, at 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. UFO/UAP interactions unfold less like observations and more like moments of revelation in which perception, meaning, and symbolism become tightly interwoven. This was precisely why Carl Jung himself found the issue worthy of consideration. Using Jung's own interest in the topic as an entry point, we will navigate a range of perspectives involving archetypes, folklore, firsthand testimony, metaphysics, narratology, and indigenous and ancient cosmologies. By pursuing a symbolic interpretation rather than solely focusing on documents, footage, and disclosure, we may obtain a deeper understanding of our “modern myth of things seen in the skies.” For specifics and to register, go to jungatlanta.com.

9. Join Day1 for Episode 4252, Sept. 20, as Rev. Dr. Aimee Moiso, an ordained Presbyterian Church (USA) minister and manager of social policy witness for the denomination, brings us "Subverting Expectations" from Luke 14:1-14. Moiso unpacks a familiar dinner party story, showing how Jesus quietly upends assumptions about status, humility, and who deserves a seat at the table. She offers a thoughtful challenge to how easily we dehumanize those we disagree with. Hear Day1 in Atlanta on WSB 95.5 and 750 AM Sundays at 7:05 a.m. Find the podcast expanded program wherever you get podcasts. Visit Day1.org for more.

10. Organist Ralph Holtzhauser will perform at the Cathedral of St. Philip in person and livestreamed on the Cathedral Website Sunday, Sept. 20, at 3:15 p.m. serves as diocesan music director for the Diocese of Youngstown and music director of the Cathedral of St. Columba in Youngtown, OH. He is a graduate of Baldwin Wallace University and Cleveland Institute of Music, and has performed all over North America and western Europe. He will play works of Alfred Hollins, Iain Farrington, Sigfrid Karg-Elert, and Alexandre Guilmant.  Following the recital, the Cathedral offers its weekly service of Choral Evensong at 4 o’clock.

11. Final performance of the world premiere of “Status” is Sunday, Sept. 20 at AHF/AID Atlanta Offices, doors open at 4:15 for a 5:00 performance. Admission is complimentary. You are urged to make a contribution to support the AID Atlanta AIDS Walk team. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR   COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS.

12. Candler School of Theology will welcome Ashley Boggan, general secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History of The United Methodist Church, to campus for three events September 22 and 23 focused on the collection, preservation, and sharing of queer history in The UMC. On Sept. 22, Boggan will preach in worship and will take part in the panel discussion “Queer and Community Archival Practices.” On Sept. 23, Boggan will present the lecture “Reclaiming the Heart and Method of Methodism.” All are welcome to attend in person or online. In person registration for the panel and lecture closes on September 15. Learn more and register to attend in person or via livestream. 

13. On Common Ground: Building Bridges Across Faith and Community in DeKalb County, District 2. This is an interfaith gathering series rooted in relationship, shared learning, and a compassionate community response to homelessness across DeKalb County. Gathering Two is at Congregation Shearith Israel, Thursday, September 24, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Register at www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/on-common-ground.

14. You might be interested in this opportunity from the Urban Well, a ministry of St. James Episcopal Church in Lancaster, Pa. The Mercy Seminar, beginning Sept.24, will focus on Christian understandings of resurrection and eternal life, beginning with the hope of future resurrection life in the letters of Paul and the expectation of eternal life now in the Gospel of John. You are invited to explore the profound insights that different faith traditions offer about embracing life and navigating death with grace uncovering the wisdom that encourages us to live our best lives and face death not with fear, but with hope and understanding. Classes meet on six consecutive Thursday evenings via Zoom from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. EST. All sessions are recorded and available to participants for asynchronous viewing. Registration. 

15. Music at First Presbyterian Church Bach's Lunch, Friday, Sept. 25, 12:00 p.m. Free admission. Antiphonal Brass Choirs Co-presented with the Emory Chamber Music Society. The beautiful Sanctuary will ring with the glorious sounds of three brass choirs, placed all around the space, in music of Bach, Gabrieli, and more. Led by trumpeter Kevin Lyons. 1328 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta 30309. 

16. The Mary Sandra Chapter of the Order of the Daughters of the King invites everyone to a Taizé Service, Friday, Sept. 25, at 7:00 p.m. This Service of Prayer, Chanting, and Meditation will be held at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 6780 James B. Rivers Drive, Stone Mountain, in the main sanctuary. If you have any questions email vrose3@gmail. 

17. Georgia Interfaith Power & Light invites you to Central Congregational UCC, Friday, Sept. 25 for Blessed Are They That Rest: Vespers for the Weary. Through song, storytelling, and contemplative practices, this gathering will create space to reconnect with the rhythms of grace, restoration, and the land. This event is presented by Wisdom for the Storms– a GIPL-supported initiative that explores the spiritual, ethical, and communal resources needed to navigate the realities of climate change and ecological disruption – in partnership with Green The Church. The evening will be facilitated by Min. Julian Reid, a theologian, pianist, and founder of Notes of Rest®, a spiritual offering that invites the weary into the rest of God as practiced in Scripture and expressed through Black musical traditions. Reid will be accompanied by vocalist Tramaine Parker. General admission is $20 and includes dinner. Doors open at 6 p.m. REGISTER HERE. 

18. Volunteer with Holy Comforter Friendship Center at the East Atlanta Village Strut, Sept. 26. An East Atlanta Village event, this will their third year participating. Be in conversation with neighbors, help market the amazing items made by the parishioners, and have fun! Don’t worry, there will be a tent to provide some shade. Sign up here.  

19. St. Edward’s Episcopal Church invites the community to its 4th Annual Fall Festival with music, food, bouncy houses, games, raffles, and prizes. Saturday, Sept. 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 737 Moon Road, Lawrenceville 30046. For information, call the parish office at [phone]. 

20. AMIS Atlanta will host its 48th annual Welcome Reception for international students and scholars on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., at Georgia Tech’s CODA Tech Square Plaza. The reception brings together international students from colleges and universities across metro Atlanta with local volunteers, community members, and friends. The event is designed to help international students feel welcome, connected, and supported as they begin a new academic year and life in Atlanta. Guests can expect an afternoon of live music, activities, and opportunities to meet students and community members from around the world. Metro Atlanta is home to approximately 16,000 international college students each year. Last year, AMIS Atlanta served 600 international students representing more than 80 countries. The event is free; registration is required here  amisatlanta.org/welcome 

21. Georgia Trust Ramble – A Day at Berry, Sunday, Sept. 27. Begin the day with brunch in Ford Dining Hall, a Gothic Revival inspired by Christ Church College at Oxford, gifted by Henry and Clara Ford in 1925. Founded in 1902 by educator Martha Berry, Berry College is celebrated for its English Gothic architecture, scenic courtyards, and distinction as the world’s largest contiguous college campus. Ramblers will have the opportunity to explore the campus’s many historic treasures, including Oak Hill, the home of founder Martha Berry. In the afternoon, visit Summerville’s Paradise Garden, Howard Finster’s visionary folk art masterpiece. Fall Ramble Registration Options - The Georgia Trust 

22. Friends Peace Teams- In this 2-hour participatory program, you will experience the history of the colonization of Turtle Island, the land that is now known as the United States. The story is told through the words of Indigenous leaders, European/American leaders, and Western historians. We are invited to consider how we can build relationships with Indigenous peoples based on truth, respect, justice, and our shared humanity. Appropriate for high school students and adults. The same workshop is offered in Sept, Oct. and Dec. Sunday, Sept. 27, 4-6 pm ET REGISTER HERE. 

23. Come to the “outer space” at Waller’s Coffee Shop for a fundraiser to help support the work of A Home For Everyone In DeKalb. Supporters often show up one by one to help, but here we can sit side by side in community, meet new friends, and enjoy some great music. Executive Director Greg White will welcome everyone shortly after kick-off, at 4:15p.m. with music starting at 4:30 p.m. Beverages and light bites will be available for purchase in the Waller’s cafe. Sept. 27, 4-7 p.m. R.s.v.p. here. 

24. World Rivers Day Creek Cleanups, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2–4 p.m. In celebration of World Rivers Day and Global Ismaili Civic Day, faith communities across metro Atlanta will come together for an interfaith service opportunity, caring for our waterways, local ecosystems, and neighbors by cleaning up our local creeks. Register Here Today.  

25. Second Annual Dignity Forum will support Crossroads Community Ministries. Sept. 29, 6-9 p.m., the Carlyle, 1919 Piedmont Avenue NE, Atlanta 30324. This event will feature a panel discussion “How do we serve those on the margins of homelessness with true dignity when times are tough? Purchase Tickets or a Table Today. 

26. The Aquinas Center announces that Dr. Kate Ward, associate professor of theological ethics at Marquette University, will present "Catholic Social Teaching and the Meaning of Work" on Tuesday, Sept. 29, at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Atlanta. Ward’s newly released book, Making a Life: Catholic Social Teaching and the Meaning of Work, reminds readers that work is more than a paid job and is a purposeful human activity. Register - September 29th Program 

27. Building Bridges Under the Sukkah: An Interfaith Exploration of Sukkot — Wednesday, Sept. 30, 12–1:30 p.m., Ahavath Achim Synagogue. Share a harvest meal and reflect on our shared responsibility to the land with Adamah ATL. Register Here Today. 

28. Raising Expectations will celebrate three decades of impact with the Road to 30 House Party, a one-night-only experience inspired by the unforgettable energy, culture, music, and connection of a true 90s house party. Wednesday, Sept. 30, 6:30 p.m., The Supermarket, 638 N. Highland, Atlanta. LEARN MORE. BUY TICKET NOW! Started in 1995, when Tangee Allen and Maria Armstrong were college students, RE was founded on a simple but powerful belief: every young person deserves someone who believes in them and a pathway to a brighter future. 

29. Weekend Retreat: Caring for Our Common Home, October 2 - 4, Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center, Sandy Springs. What might we discover about God, ourselves, and our place in Creation if we became quiet enough to truly pay attention? During the 800th anniversary year of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, join Dr. Rob McDowell, environmental scientist and co-author of the Archdiocese of Atlanta’s Laudato Si’ Action Plan, for a silent weekend surrounded by natural beauty. We’ll explore our relationship with the earth through prayer, reflection, and time in nature. Come step away from the noise, rediscover wonder and gratitude, and consider the question St. Francis left his brothers at the end of his life: What is ours to do? To register visit https://bit.ly/careofcreation2026or call [phone]. 

30. A reminder that registration is open for “Becoming the People the World Needs Now,”October 17, 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., at the Cathedral of St. Philip, 2744 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta 30305. We will explore with Elizabeth Oldfield what it means to grow up our souls in order to meet this moment. Drawing on theology, philosophy, behavioral psychology and more, we will spend time clarifying our values, reflecting on our formation, and building courage, steadiness and even joy for these turbulent times.  Register here!

Peace, Ethel Ware Carter