There have been studies on the pervasiveness of loneliness in our culture, “New research analyzing previous studies suggest people who fall into the loneliness trap are 50 percent more likely to suffer an early death than those who remain socially connected. Previous studies have found that as many as a third of Americans are lonely, and that 18 percent of adults felt lonely “always” or “often.”

Beit HaLev is now conducting services on Zoom. Anyone interested in joining the Beit HaLev Zoom community for services and Hebrew lessons, contact the rabbi at (562) 715-0888 for access and instructions on how to use Zoom. Beit HaLev is continuing to livestream on Facebook and YouTube as well. To attend, go to Rabbi Galit Shirah’s website at galityomtov.com, Facebook. com/galityomtov or YouTube.

By Johan Dodge Reverend I have heard from many of you during this strange and different time that we are living through. There is a common thread of thought throughout these conversations. Some of the themes I’m hearing about are loneliness, isolation, mild depression, health worries and confusion over national events. So, what can you do? You know the answer. Turn to God. I can offer

by Jim Greer LW Contributor In a BYU devotional given Nov. 14, 2017, Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke of a time when the Prophet Joseph Smith answered 20 questions. The answers to those questions were published in the church’s newspaper, the Elders’ Journal, in July 1838. One important question asked of the prophet was, “What are your religion’s

Rabbi Rachel Axelrad will stream Friday night services at 6:30 on Aug. 28 on the Congregation Sholom of Leisure World Facebook page. To join, select the “Rooms” tab, then click on “Jewish Activities” and “Join to Restart.” Rabbi Dangott will also be on Facebook for Saturday morning services at 9:30 on Aug. 29. On Sunday, Aug. 30, Congregation Sholom will host an online Bingo game run

Holy Family Catholic Church, 13900 Church Place next to the St. Andrews Gate, will observe The 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time on Sunday, Aug. 30. The First Reading is Jeremiah 20:7-9 and the Second Reading is Romans 12:1-2. The Gospel reading will be from Matthew 16:21-27 Feast Day, Aug. 27 “She had smiles for the neighbors, though her husband found her religion and the charity it inspired annoying.

By Bruce Humes Pastor Many U.S. Presidents have made proclamations calling for a day of national prayer. On July 20, 1775, the Continental Congress issued a proclamation calling for a day of public fasting and prayer. In 1795, George Washington proclaimed a day of public thanksgiving and prayer. On May 9, 1798, John Adams declared the day as a day of solemn humility, fasting and prayer.

By Norma Ballinger LW Contributor Pastor Sam Pawlak continues to bring short, scripture-based devotions each Sunday at 10 a.m. on Facebook. This provides a meaningful way for the congregation and friends to stay connected. A Chinese Proverb I read that has stayed in my mind: “Life is an echo, what you send out comes back. What you sow, you reap. What you give, you get. What

OC Fair fans won’t have to miss out on their food fix this year after all. Starting Aug. 28, the Fair Food Drive-Thru will offer summer treats from four food vendors bringing a taste of the OC Fair to go. Guests longing for their favorite delightful indulgences can head to the fairgrounds in Costa Mesa and choose from special menus from one or all of the following: • Cathy’s Cookies