Some people are naturally optimistic about everything. They irritate those who consider themselves realists, as opposed to pessimists. Even if one is not a Pollyanna type, the truth is that some ray of light can be found in the most bitter circumstance. James 1:1-12 presents this principle, that strength and endurance come after resistance and trial, bringing hope to those going through difficulties.

Sheep Gate Evangelical Church, led by senior pastor Young Kun Kim, holds a weekly worship service on Sundays at 1 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. The Thursday Bible study, which is a reading through the Bible together, is held at 1 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 4. Sheep Gate Evangelical Church is a place for Korean-speaking residents to find and live a joyful life in Jesus. For more information, call 818-445-7777

Holy Family Catholic Church is located next to the St. Andrews Gate. Masses are held Monday-Saturday at 8:30 a.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. (Vigil) and Sundays at 8 a.m.,10 a.m. and noon.

Buddha Circle will meet with venerable Kusala on Saturday, Feb. 7, in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, from 9:30-11 a.m.

Jesus gives the greatest invitation in Matthew 11. Verse 28 has a familiar passage to many Christians, “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” How do people find this rest that Jesus is offering? First they must come to him. When people come to Jesus, not for what he gives, but for who he is. The very act of coming to him is rest. Because when believers

Congregation Sholom will host a potluck dinner prior to services on Friday, Jan. 30, in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, at 5 p.m. A sign up sheet has been sent to members. Services conducted by Rabbi Mike Mymon will begin following the dinner at 6:30 and will also be available on Zoom. Rabbi Mymon will also lead the hybrid services on Saturday, Jan. 31, in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, and on Zoom at 10 a.m. The Torah

Meetings for the Atherton Ward are held at 6500 E. Atherton St., Long Beach. The sacrament meeting is at 9 a.m., followed by second-hour meetings from 10:10-11 a.m. The second hour meetings are as follows: Sunday school is held on the first and third Sundays and relief society and elders quorum are on the second and fourth Sundays. The primary meeting is held every Sunday. Members who are unable

On Sunday, Feb. 1, the congregations of Redeemer Lutheran Church and St. Theodore of Canterbury Episcopal Church will celebrate the fourth Sunday after Epiphany. Rev. Murray Finck will preside over the 10:30 a.m. holy Communion service at 13564 St. Andrews Drive. All are welcome to join. Join the congregation after service for coffee, tea, cookies and snacks in the Fellowship Hall. The congregation