Contemplative Experience: Centering Prayer
Nov
15
10:00 AM10:00

Contemplative Experience: Centering Prayer

"Contemplative Experiences" are an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and pay attention. In a variety of embodied and spiritual practices, we are creating space for encountering Divine Love in our most ordinary, daily experiences. We aim to offer these about monthly during the school year.

This month, our practice is Centering Prayer. This very simple practice invites us to sit quietly and say “yes” to the presence of Divine Love. Developed by Father Thomas Keating, Centering Prayer has become a widely know Christian approach to mindfulness. We will introduce the practice for beginners, and then have ample space to practice, reflect and converse about the experience.

Questions? Contact Ben Conachan.

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Space to Grieve
Nov
20
7:00 PM19:00

Space to Grieve

The current state of our world, and country in particular, is rousing many feelings and much grief. This offering exists to make space for us to name our grief. We’ll also take time to consider integrated strategies that allow our grief to metabolize and pass through. Finally, we’ll consider some ways in which honoring our grief frees us to creatively imagine practical steps forward. 

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Brave Conversation: Turning Vision into Action
Nov
23
11:45 AM11:45

Brave Conversation: Turning Vision into Action

Many of us are experiencing the emotional grief, anger and exhaustion of this current time. Being a political bridge builder is a commitment to a way of being and requires the support of community for processing, problem solving, commitment and camaraderie to know you’re not alone. Join us for this session as we seek to articulate what this vision actually means and explore what turning vision into action might look like beyond just interpersonal dialogue.

Facilitated by Gary Conachan and Abby Coppock.

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Advent Potluck and One Service
Dec
7
10:00 AM10:00

Advent Potluck and One Service

Join us after service on December 7, the Second Sunday of Advent, for our next all-church potluck! For this Sunday, we will have one service all together at 10:00am, with the potluck to follow.

This time the theme is soups, salads, and desserts. Everyone is welcome to join us and encouraged to bring a dish to share. You can sign up in the church lobby after services starting November 9, or you can sign up at our webpage to let us know you’re planning to join and what you'd like to bring.

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Christmas Eve Choir Rehearsals
Dec
14
11:45 AM11:45

Christmas Eve Choir Rehearsals

Do you enjoy singing? Come lend your voice in our Christmas Eve Choir. No audition necessary. All are welcome to join. Rehearsals will be held Dec 14 and Dec 21 from 11:45 - 1:00. Attendance at both rehearsals is strongly encouraged; attendance at one rehearsal is required. The choir will be singing on Wednesday, December 24 at both the 5:00pm and 6:30pm Christmas Eve Services. To sign up, please contact Brian Cheney at brianc@pearlchurch.org.

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Educational Evening: the Joyful Mysteries
Dec
18
7:00 PM19:00

Educational Evening: the Joyful Mysteries

As Christmas nears, you’re invited to ponder the Rosary's Joyful Mysteries, which celebrate Jesus’ birth and early years of life. Following a brief orientation to the Rosary, we'll take time to appreciate the angelic annunciation, Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth, the nativity, the presentation of Jesus in the temple, and the finding of Jesus in the temple—which will provide a backdrop for our contemplation of what God is inviting us to birth into the world, in this season of our lives. Bring along your own Rosary. If needed, simple rosaries will be provided.

Questions? Please contact Pastor Mike Roth.

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Christmas Eve Choir Rehearsals
Dec
21
11:45 AM11:45

Christmas Eve Choir Rehearsals

Do you enjoy singing? Come lend your voice in our Christmas Eve Choir. No audition necessary. All are welcome to join. Rehearsals will be held Dec 14 and Dec 21 from 11:45 - 1:00. Attendance at both rehearsals is strongly encouraged; attendance at one rehearsal is required. The choir will be singing on Wednesday, December 24 at both the 5:00pm and 6:30pm Christmas Eve Services. To sign up, please contact Brian Cheney at brianc@pearlchurch.org.

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Christmas Eve Services
Dec
24
5:00 PM17:00

Christmas Eve Services

Two Services: 5:00 & 6:30pm

Everyone is invited to join in the celebration on Christmas Eve! We’ll sing Christmas songs and read Christmas stories and listen to a Christmas homily about Divine Light shining in the darkness. We’ll light Christmas candles as a reminder that light truly does cast out all that is dark. Consider inviting family and friends to this special service. Please note: both services will be identical. The only difference is that the 5pm service will be the only service with toddler, preschool, and elementary offerings.

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Book Discussion: Healing the Heart of Democracy
Jan
4
11:45 AM11:45

Book Discussion: Healing the Heart of Democracy

Facilitated by Ben Conachan.
Many of us are asking what we can do to make a difference in today's political climate. In his book, Healing the Heart of Democracy, Palmer writes about what we can do to restore civil discourse, reach for understanding across lines of difference, focus on our shared values, and hold elected officials accountable. He explores ways we can reweave the communal fabric on which democracy depends in everyday settings such as families, neighborhoods, classrooms, congregations, workplaces, and various public spaces―including five “habits of the heart” we can cultivate as we work to fulfill America's promise of human equality. We will discuss this book and ponder its intersections with our Sacred Story and Common Table.

Questions? Please contact Pastor Ben.

We are happy to arrange childcare for this event, with at least three day's notice. You can request childcare while registering.

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Reimagining Christian Life Class
Jan
7
7:00 PM19:00

Reimagining Christian Life Class

Wednesdays in January and February, 7:00pm

At the core of Christian life is a set of mysteries which we find in the Bible: Incarnation, Atonement, Resurrection, Trinity. These religious words provide lenses for life. Our hope for this class is to reimagine these mysteries as lenses for a non-violent and non-dominion Christianity that’s capable of grounding us, inspiring us, and leading us more deeply into lives that flourish.

Each session of this class will provide rich content, deep conversations and space for growing deeper relationships at Pearl. We will cover content and engaging practices that help to give Christian shape to our lives:

  • 1/7, Living the Bible, Inspiration 

  • 1/14, Living Incarnation, Union

  • 1/21, Living Atonement, Repair

  • 1/28, Living Resurrection, Wholeness

  • 2/4, Living Trinity, Community

  • 2/11, Living the Way, Practices

You’re warmly invited to join us for this class. Interested, or have questions? Please contact Pastor Ben.

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Membership Class
Jan
18
11:45 AM11:45

Membership Class

Membership is for those who appreciate Pearl’s work and desire to more deeply participate. The purpose of membership is to encourage an active engagement between Pearl Church and those who call Pearl “Home.” Membership benefits include an Annual Members’ Meeting, Monthly Updates from the Oversight Team, and intentional engagement regarding the direction of the church. Whether or not you’re interested in membership, the Membership Class is an opportunity to meet with a pastor to hear all about the ins and outs of Pearl Church. Ever wonder about Pearl’s story? Curious about our values? Interested in learning about our dreams for the future? Consider attending the upcoming Membership Class to hear more and to ask any questions that you may have.

We are happy to arrange childcare for this event, with at least three day's notice. You can request childcare while registering.

Questions? Contact Pastor Mike.

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Youth All-Nighter
Jan
18
to Jan 19

Youth All-Nighter

  • North Valley Friends Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Pearl Youth—Join us as we combine with Cascade PDX and North Valley Friends to play and fellowship through the night! We’ll have pizza and snacks throughout the evening, and will serve a delicious pancake breakfast in the morning. Please bring your own bedding (just in case you need a few hours of shut-eye), toiletries, a change of clothes, and an excitement for hanging out with new and old friends.

Questions? Contact Kylie Marble.

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Reconstructing Christian Faith Retreat
Feb
6
to Feb 8

Reconstructing Christian Faith Retreat

Many people who find themselves at Pearl have either begun or are in the process of deconstructing harmful Christian faith. Yet, what is good Christian faith? To help thoughtfully answer this important question, you’re warmly invited to participate in a special weekend retreat at the coast, filled with meaningful content and community engagement. To ensure that there’s space for dialogue, we’re capping this offering at eight people. Signups are open now.

By way of content, here are the topics we’ll cover:

  • Session One, Gospel as Good News

  • Session Two, Bible, Part I: Formation, Accommodation, & Inspiration

  • Session Three, Bible, Part II: Books, Section, & Trajectory

  • Session Four, Salvation & Atonement

  • Session Five, The Afterlife

  • Session Six, Being Christian

The cost for the weekend will be $150 per person. A $50 deposit per registration is required; this amount is refundable until three weeks before the retreat, January 16. Cancellations later than one week before the retreat, January 30, will incur the full retreat price unless we are able to fill your spot.

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Youth Laser Tag
Nov
9
12:30 PM12:30

Youth Laser Tag

Pearl Youth—Grab a quick lunch after church and then meet us at the arcade! Pearl will cover entrance fee and two laser tag games per person. Bring $5-15 for arcade games! Questions? Contact Kylie Marble (kyliem@pearlchurch.org)

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Book Discussion: Instructions for Traveling West
Nov
2
11:45 AM11:45

Book Discussion: Instructions for Traveling West

Facilitated by Mike Roth

Instructions for Traveling West, by Joy Sullivan, is a collection of poems that examine what happens when we leave home and leap into the deep unknown. This book is for anyone flinging themselves into fresh starts and grappling with loss, loneliness and belonging. These poems remind us that joy is not a trick; joy is what we make with our lives.

Questions? Please contact Pastor Mike.

We are happy to arrange childcare for this event, with at least three day's notice. You can request childcare while registering.

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Kids' Halloween Party
Oct
26
11:45 AM11:45

Kids' Halloween Party

Happy Halloween, Pearl Church! Join us the Sunday before Halloween right after our second service ends (about 11:45am) for everything a church “harvest party” was supposed to be! Costumes are highly encouraged, with games and treats ready after the service for kids and families. Kids are welcome to wear their costumes to church this morning. See you there!

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Whiskey Tasting Night
Oct
24
7:00 PM19:00

Whiskey Tasting Night

Come join others at Pearl for an evening of conversation, connection and whiskey tasting! Dan and Cheri Gilbert are opening their home and sharing whiskeys and their knowledge about the history and varieties of whiskeys. You are encouraged to bring a bottle of your favorite Bourbon, Scotch Irish or blended whiskey to share tastes, if you like (you’ll take home your bottle at the end of the night); you also can simply show up! Dan and Cheri will provide nibbles to go with the whiskey. This event will be limited to 16 people; please sign up to get the address.

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Welcoming Newcomers
Oct
19
10:00 AM10:00

Welcoming Newcomers

If you're new(er) to Pearl, you're invited to a casual reception following Sunday’s service where you'll have an opportunity to meet some of Pearl’s core members, ministry leaders, home group leaders, oversight team, and staff. We would love to meet and warmly welcome you to our Pearl community. You’re invited to pop in between our two services (starting about 10:00) for light refreshments and casual conversation.

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LGBTQIA+ Connection: Fall Game Night
Oct
18
7:00 PM19:00

LGBTQIA+ Connection: Fall Game Night

Our LGBTQIA+ community is invited for another fun game night at Tym and Drew Andrew's home! This time you're also invited to bring along some favorite fall bakes (home-made or store-bought) to share—think pumpkin, maple, apples, or whatever says "autumn" to you! If you do bring something to share, please bring serving utensils if needed. We'll enjoy yummy treats, play board games and get to know each other! Newcomers are warmly welcomed.

Please RSVP to get the address. Questions? Contact Ben Conachan.

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Reimagining Christian Life Retreat
Oct
17
to Oct 19

Reimagining Christian Life Retreat

  • Google Calendar ICS

Formerly known as the Catechesis Retreat. Please note: this content will also be offered as weekly class, Thursdays during winter 2026.

At the core of Christian life is a set of mysteries which we find in the Bible: Incarnation, Atonement, Resurrection, Trinity. These religious words provide lenses for life. Our hope for this retreat is to remain these mysteries as lenses for a non-violent and non-dominion Christianity that’s capable of grounding us, inspiring us, and leading us more deeply into lives that flourish.

For this retreat format, we’ll get away to a beach house at the coast for a weekend of rich content, deep conversations and space for growing deeper relationships at Pearl. Each session will cover relevant content and engaging practices that help to give Christian shape to our lives:

  • Living the Bible, Inspiration 

  • Living Incarnation, Union

  • Living Atonement, Repair

  • Living Resurrection, Wholeness

  • Living the Trinity, Community

  • Living the Way, Practices

Cost for the weekend will be determined based on the number of people who attend as we'll be splitting the cost of the beach house, but we estimate about $150. (Final price will be confirmed with registered attendees.)

A $50 deposit per registration is required; this amount is refundable until two weeks before the retreat, October 3. Cancellations later than one week before the retreat, October 10, will incur the full retreat price unless we are able to fill your spot.

You’re warmly invited to join us for this Retreat. Have questions? Please contact Pastor Ben.

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Educational Evening: Benedictine Spirituality
Oct
16
7:00 PM19:00

Educational Evening: Benedictine Spirituality

The Way of Balance: Benedictine Spirituality for Postmoderns

Faciliated by Pastor Ben Conachan.
Over the past thirty years, there has been a growing interest in monastic spirituality and the wisdom it holds for everyday lives. In this seminar, we’ll explore how the key teachings of the Rule of Benedict, written in the early sixth century, are surprisingly relevant to postmodern lives. Rhythm, stability, humility, hospitality, attention, and transformation—these Benedictine hallmarks are guideposts for us all, single or married, in all our stages of life.
Questions? Please contact Ben Conachan.

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Reconstructing Christian Faith Class
Oct
15
7:00 PM19:00

Reconstructing Christian Faith Class

This class is full; there is a waiting list if you would like to sign up in case additional spaces open up. We will also offer this content as a weekend retreat in the winter, Feb 6-9 2026.

Wednesdays throughout October and November (10/15-11/19), 7-8:30pm
Many people who find themselves at Pearl have either begun or are in the process of deconstructing harmful, Christian faith. Yet, what is good Christian faith? To help thoughtfully answer this important question, you’re warmly invited to participate in this six-session class. To ensure there’s space for dialogue, we’re capping this class at eight people.

To ask questions, please email Pastor Mike. By way of content, here are the topics we’ll cover:

  • Week One, Wednesday, October 15, Gospel as Good News

  • Week Two, Wednesday, October 22, Bible, Part I: Formation, Accommodation, & Inspiration

  • Week Three, Wednesday, October 29 Bible, Part II: Books, Sections, & Trajectory

  • Week Four, Wednesday, November 5, Salvation & Atonement

  • Week Five, Wednesday, November 12, The Afterlife

  • Week Six, Wednesday, November 19, Being Christian

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Please note: if these dates do not work for you or the class becomes full, this content will also be offered as a weekend retreat, February 6-9, 2026.

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Hike at Powell Butte
Oct
11
10:00 AM10:00

Hike at Powell Butte

Everyone is welcome to join us for a morning hike exploring Powell Butte in East Portland! This extinct volcanic formation has trails that loop through open grassland with views of Portland and Mount Hood, old fruit orchards, and thick woodland stands of Douglas fir, red cedar, alder and maples. We’ll be taking a 3.5 mile loop that explores the diversity of this open space.

The hike will be moderate, with some elevation gain, but accessible to most hikers. Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome. If you have questions, please contact Ben Conachan.

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Contemplative Experience: Lectio Divina
Oct
8
7:00 PM19:00

Contemplative Experience: Lectio Divina

"Contemplative Experiences" are an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and pay attention. In a variety of embodied and spiritual practices, we are creating space for encountering Divine Love in our most ordinary, daily experiences. We aim to offer these about monthly during the school year.

This month, our practice is "Lectio Divina"—an ancient method of reading a text slowly, chewing it and savoring its words as an invitation into the heart. Rather than reading for information, this is reading for communion—connecting to self, Divine, the world. While Lectio is usually practiced on Biblical texts, it can be hard to shake out of old patterns of Bible reading. So we'll instead be engaging poetry. Everyone is welcome to bring a poem they love and would like to sit with, or we will have options available. After quiet time of individual reflection, we'll share our poems and how they spoke to us.

Questions? Contact Ben Conachan.

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Membership Class
Oct
5
11:45 AM11:45

Membership Class

Membership is for those who appreciate Pearl’s work and desire to more deeply participate. The purpose of membership is to encourage an active engagement between Pearl Church and those who call Pearl “Home.” Membership benefits include an Annual Members’ Meeting, Monthly Updates from the Oversight Team, and intentional engagement regarding the direction of the church. Whether or not you’re interested in membership, the Membership Class is an opportunity to meet with a pastor to hear all about the ins and outs of Pearl Church. Ever wonder about Pearl’s story? Curious about our values? Interested in learning about our dreams for the future? Consider attending the upcoming Membership Class to hear more and to ask any questions that you may have.

We are happy to arrange childcare for this event, with at least three day's notice. You can request childcare while registering.

Questions? Contact Pastor Mike.

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Youth Board Games
Sep
14
12:00 PM12:00

Youth Board Games

Join us after the second service for board game central! I'll bring all the classics I have - Bananagrams, Telestrations, Sushi Go, Catchphrase, Taboo... Bring a sense of adventure and I'll provide pizza and games!

Please RSVP if you plan to join us! Questions? Contact Kylie Marble.

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Contemplative Experience: Visio Divina
Sep
13
10:00 AM10:00

Contemplative Experience: Visio Divina

  • Japanese Gardens & Rose Gardens (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

"Contemplative Experiences" are an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and pay attention. In a variety of embodied and spiritual practices, we are creating space for encountering Divine Love in our most ordinary, daily experiences. We aim to offer these about monthly during the school year.

This month, we are heading to the beautiful Japanese Gardens and Rose Gardens in Washington Park to practice "visio divina"—looking at our world with wonder and curiosity, as a place where Divine Love can be encountered. Please RSVP if you plan to join us. Each person will be responsible for purchasing a ticket to the Japanese Gardens if you would like to include them in your experience; the Rose Gardens are open to the public for free. After space for individual reflection, we will have the opportunity to regroup and share our experiences together.

Questions? Please contact Ben Conachan.

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Fall Launch and Potluck
Sep
7
10:00 AM10:00

Fall Launch and Potluck

It’s an annual tradition at Pearl to take an early Sunday in September to cast vision for the year ahead. On this special day we’ll begin in Ecotrust’s conference room at our usual Sunday service time, 10am. However, rather than offering our usual service, our ministry leaders and pastors will share vision for the year ahead, and how you can get connected as part of the Pearl family. Everyone will have a chance to visit tables to learn more about our ministry offerings and sign up to get involved.

After this we’ll head up to the rooftop terrace for a yummy potluck lunch, with tamales from local eatery Tamale Boy as the main course! Please consider contributing a side dish, salad, or dessert (please, no Crock-Pots or other plug-in needs for food containers).

Questions? Contact Pastor Ben by email.

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LGBTQIA+ Connect: Cookout at the Marble's
Aug
23
4:00 PM16:00

LGBTQIA+ Connect: Cookout at the Marble's

All our LGBTQIA+ family is invited to join us for a Cookout and Backyard Hang at the Marble’s home in Forest Grove! Food will be provided (both vegan and gluten-free options included), just bring yourself, a bevvie (for yourself and/or to share), and a camp chair or picnic blanket to sit on. If you plan on coming, please RSVP to get the address and so we know how many to prep for!

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Youth Backyard Campout
Aug
21
to Aug 22

Youth Backyard Campout

Pearl Youth—Come one, come all! Join us as we celebrate the dog days of summer and the last bit of freedom before school starts. We will provide food, tents, fire pit, games and endless fun. There is even talk of thrifting and laser tag… find out if the rumors are true! Cost per participant is $15, which can be paid online, or by cash, check or by Venmo. Please sign up and fill out release forms online.

Questions? Contact Kylie Marble.

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Hike @ Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Aug
16
9:00 AM09:00

Hike @ Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Join us for a casual hike through Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. The first wildlife refuge establish in Portland, this important marshland provides shelter for many local animal and plan populations, along the Willamette River below East Moreland/Sellwood. This hike will be about 3.5 miles along mostly level terrain, and is kid and dog-friendly! (Dogs must be on leashes.)

We will meet up at Sellwood Park, hike north and then loop back using the Springwater Corridor.

If you plan to join us, please RSVP so we know to look for you!

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Membership Class
Aug
3
11:00 AM11:00

Membership Class

Membership is for those who appreciate Pearl’s work and desire to more deeply participate. The purpose of membership is to encourage an active engagement between Pearl Church and those who call Pearl “Home.” Membership benefits include an Annual Members’ Meeting, Monthly Updates from the Oversight Team, and intentional engagement regarding the direction of the church. Whether or not you’re interested in membership, the Membership Class is an opportunity to meet with a pastor to hear all about the ins and outs of Pearl

Church. Ever wonder about Pearl’s story? Curious about our values? Interested in learning about our dreams for the future? Consider attending the upcoming Membership Class to hear more and to ask any questions that you may have.

We are happy to arrange childcare for this event, with at least three day's notice. You can request childcare while registering.

Questions? Contact Pastor Mike.

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Pride Parade
Jul
20
11:00 AM11:00

Pride Parade

Come join us as we march in the Portland Pride Parade! All are welcome, both our LGBTQIA+ family and straight allies. Whether you want to march with us, or watch along the parade route, everyone is welcome as we celebrate that every part of us is welcome at our Common Table. Being a Christian community walking in Pride is a beautiful and important demonstration of inclusive love. We heard from many people last year how significant it was to see us there, and several people found our community that way as well!

The parade runs from 11am-2pm. We are about halfway through the lineup - so there will be plenty of time to attend church and head over afterward.

***T-shirt sales are now closed. If you ordered a Pride T-shirt by July 1, we will have it available for pickup at church by the day of the parade.***

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Welcoming Newcomers
Jul
12
6:00 PM18:00

Welcoming Newcomers

Many newcomers have found Pearl over the past several months and we’d like to say, “Hello” and “Welcome!” If you're new(er) to Pearl, you're invited to a casual reception at Irving Park, where you'll have an opportunity to meet members of our pastoral staff, oversight team, and leadership team. We would love to meet and warmly welcome you to our Pearl community.

We will be at Picnic Area A, close to NE 7th and by the tennis courts. You’re invited to drop by anytime between 6:00 and 8:00pm for drinks, refreshments and casual conversation. Please RSVP if you plan to join us! Questions? Contact Pastor Ben.

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Youth Summer Camp
Jul
7
to Jul 10

Youth Summer Camp

Cascade Church, Pearl Church, Wayside Friends, and North Valley Friends are teaming up this summer to offer a Jesus-Centered camping experience for 6th-12th grade students! This year our theme will be Pixar, and each cabin will represent a different Pixar movie.

Cost is $375 (for early registration) per student, and increases to $390 after June 2nd.
You can register at this link.
Questions? Contact Kylie Marble.

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Hiking Group @ Tryon Creek
Jun
21
9:00 AM09:00

Hiking Group @ Tryon Creek

  • Tryon Creek State Natural Area (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Everyone is welcome to join us for a morning hike exploring Tryon Creek in West Portland! This 654-acre state park is a forested gem with more than 14 miles of interconnecting trails, with the picturesque creek wandering through its heart. Our path will takes us past red cedar, Douglas fir and big leaf maple trees as we criss-cross the creek.

The hike will be moderate, with some elevation gain, but accessible to most hikers. If you have questions, please contact Ben Conachan. Please RSVP if you plan to join us!

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End of School Year Celebration
Jun
8
11:00 AM11:00

End of School Year Celebration

Our kids and youth have worked hard and completed another year of school—time to celebrate! During the service we’ll get a chance to cheer for our kids and celebrate their milestones, and afterward there will be a party on the third floor terrace with frozen treats and snacks for all! Everyone is welcome to join us.

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