Amidst the rich cultural diversity of Southern California, you can celebrate the New Year in almost any season: a winter Lunar New Year for many Asian cultures, a Spring New Year for Persian communities, or a fall turning of the year for Jewish and Ethiopian cultures.

No matter when you observe it, how can the New Year offer us an opportunity for renewal, restoration, and reflection on our guiding values?

Rev. Rebecca Benefiel Bijur is raising three children with her husband in Santa Monica, CA. She serves as Community Minister for the Emerson UU Church of Canoga Park and works with St. Joseph Center in Venice to provide housing, hope, and help to people experiencing homelessness. She will be preaching at UU of SCV on the first Sunday of the month through June 2024.