The Hemet–San Jacinto Interfaith Council brought the community together in a spirit of unity, gratitude, and service during its annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, held at the Center for Spiritual Living. Approximately 80 community members attended this year’s gathering, centered around the theme “Stronger Together in Faith and Diversity.”
Local dignitaries, including the Mayors of Hemet and San Jacinto, were present to show their support. Attendees also contributed generously to the evening’s canned food drive, benefiting both Valley Community Pantry and the San Jacinto Pantry.
Interfaith Council President Jon Ranes opened the program with a warm welcome and recognition of the diverse local congregations participating in the service: Temple Beth Am, Community Christian, Calvary Chapel, Pilgrim Congregational, United Methodist, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Hope in the Valley, the Baha’i Faith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the Church of Scientology.
Pastor Dale Garland of Hope in the Valley Baptist Church offered the invocation.
A message of gratitude was delivered by the President of Valley Community Pantry, Jim Lineberger who expressed deep appreciation for the ongoing support provided by local congregations. He emphasized the positive, life-changing impact that community collaboration continues to make for families in need.
Pastor Jerome Roberts from the United Methodist Churches from Hemet and San Jacinto delivered a message of helping the community and his pantry in San Jacinto assists more than 3,000 per month.
The Children’s Interfaith Choir provided one of the evening’s most heartwarming moments with their rendition of “My Heavenly Father Loves Me.” This was followed by a moving presentation written by Stephanie Kittleson and presented by Adam Formica, which concluded with a reminder that:
“Love is not limited by religion… when we come together — Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, and all people of faith and goodwill — we bring healing and light into a world that desperately needs both.”
A musical performance by Linda Greilich of the Church of Scientology, accompanied by Christina Ranes of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, continued the spirit of unity.
The keynote address was delivered by Hemet Police Chief Michael Arellano, who shared his personal connection to the valley and spoke passionately about his commitment to serving and protecting the entire community.
Following a communal singing of “God Bless America,” Pastor Lowell Thomas of Lighthouse Church offered the benediction. Drawing from his experience as a football coach at San Jacinto High School, he encouraged attendees to persevere in their goals through faith and determination.
The Hemet–San Jacinto Interfaith Council reaffirms its mission to:
- Promote mutual understanding and respect among all faiths.
- Address issues affecting local communities, the nation, and the world.
- Strengthen faith in God and serve the needs of the valley.
Upcoming Events & Community Announcements
- Interfaith Holiday Party:
December 11, 2025 — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Mountain View Clubhouse, 24600 Mountain Ave., Hemet - Food Donations Now Accepted At:
• San Jacinto Community Pantry — 210 S. San Jacinto Ave.
• Valley Community Pantry — Simpson Center, 305 E. Devonshire Ave., Hemet
• Salvation Army Food Pantry — 340 S. Palm Ave., Hemet - Living Nativity Walkthrough:
Presented by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at Weston Park immediately following the Hemet Christmas Parade.
