Labyrinth Walk an Opportunity for Meditation

First United Methodist Church will hold a labyrinth walk at 10:15 a.m. Sunday in Simkins Hall at 1008 11th St., Santa Monica. The church’s portable labyrinth is a replica of one in Chartres, France.

Walked as a pilgrimage and a means for repentance, the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth, built about 1200, was one of the most famous of the structures. Reaching its 11-circle center symbolized enlightenment, and was sometimes used as a symbolic substitute for pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

First United Methodist’s labyrinth walk will serve as a meditation tool and will take up to 45 minutes. Walkers are encouraged to wear white socks. Information: (310) 393-8258.

EVENTS

The Skirball Cultural Center presents “Looking for a Rabbi,” photographs by Shelley Gazin, from noon Tuesday through Sept. 30 in the Ruby Gallery at 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. Gazin’s photographic portraits include spirited individuals, serious advisors and generous mentors. (310) 440-4500.

* In response to the week’s terrorist attacks, an Orange County interfaith prayer service, led by leaders of the Muslim, Jewish, Protestant and Roman Catholic communities, will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday at Holy Family Cathedral, 566 S. Glassell St., Orange. (714) 639-2900.

* To celebrate the High Holidays, Beth Chayim Chadashim will hold an Erev Rosh Hashana service at 8 p.m. Monday at 6000 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles. The event will be followed by a Rosh Hashana service and an annual vegetarian and dairy potluck lunch at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Admission for people who do not provide a dish is $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers. (323) 931-7029.

* The Holy Retreat Center will hold a Taize prayer at 7:30 p.m. Friday at 4316 Lanai Road, Encino. The evening will consist of chants, Scripture readings, prayer for petition and veneration of the cross. Refreshments will be served after the prayer service. (818) 784-4515.

CONCERTS

Crystal Lewis will perform at 6 p.m. today at Sunrise Christian Fellowship, 2350 Shasta Way, Simi Valley. Lewis’ current album focuses on questions of faith, love and friendships, and was nominated for a Grammy in the category of best pop contemporary gospel album. (805) 581-1628.

* Pianist Dorothy Kane will perform old-fashioned hymns at 1 p.m. Sunday at St. James Presbyterian Church, 19414 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana. A free-will offering will be taken. (818) 345-2057.

LECTURES

Marjorie Suchocki, Ingraham professor of theology at the Claremont School of Theology and co-director of the center for process studies, will present “God and the World: Introduction to Process Theology” from 4:10 to 6 p.m. Thursday in Kresge Chapel at the seminary, 1325 N. College Ave., Claremont. Admission is free. (909) 626-3521.

* St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church will hold a two-month Alpha course from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays at 7136 Winnetka Ave., Canoga Park. The Alpha course was developed in England and is geared toward people interested in learning about the Christian faith. A celebration dinner on Dec. 5 will mark the last day of class. (818) 701-7503.

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