DISCUSSION ON SCRIPTURES: An interfaith panel will...

DISCUSSION ON SCRIPTURES: An interfaith panel will discuss “The Role and Authority of Sacred Writing (Scriptures)” next month. Featured panelists include Rabbi Alan Schram, University of Judaism professor, representing the Jewish faith; William Vincent, who handles public affairs for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, representing the Mormon faith; Sister Dorothy Simpson, coordinator of adult education at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, representing the Roman Catholic faith, and the Rev. Paula Fuld, representing the Buddhist faith. Sponsored by the Interfaith Relations Committee of the San Fernando Valley Interfaith Council, the event will be held at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Korean Branch, 18425 Ingomar St., Reseda. (818) 718-6460.

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ANNIVERSARY DINNER: Actress and comedian Geri Jewell will speak at a special Shabbat worship service in honor of the 13th anniversary of Temple Beth Hillel’s Moses Program, which helps to mainstream Jewish adults with disabilities, their families and friends into the worship services and activities at the Reform synagogue. The Jan. 10 event will begin with a dinner at 6 p.m. in the temple’s social hall, followed by the service at 7:30 p.m. Cost for the dinner is $10 and reservations are due by Friday. (818) 763-9148.

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CATHOLIC LUNCHEON: An upcoming Catholic Community luncheon will feature two guest speakers. Joi Bourne, founder and director of a Huntington Beach counseling center called In His Footsteps, will speak on “Being Light and Salt.” Edna Polito, representative of the Monastery of the Angels in Hollywood will speak about its cloistered nuns, known for their homemade candy and breads they sell. Fellowship will begin at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 8, followed by lunch at noon at Barone’s restaurant, 10123 Riverside Drive, Toluca Lake. Cost is $9 per person. Reservations: (818) 784-1960.

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REFLECTION DAY: Holy Spirit Retreat Center will host a reflection day titled “Praying With Julian of Norwich” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 9 at 4316 Lanai Road, Encino. Cost is $25, which includes lunch. Reservations: (818) 784-4515.

News and announcements for this column can be sent to Religion Desk, Los Angeles Times, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth 91311.