BRIEFLY IN RELIGION

Church affirms gays, lesbians as members

After a year of study, reflection and prayer, Neighborhood Congregational Church has voted to become an “Open and Affirming Congregation” ? meaning the church welcomes all persons regardless of sexual orientation, gender, marital status, age, mental and physical ability, race, ethnicity or socioeconomic background.

The church, at 340 St. Ann’s Dr., is also a member of The Center for Progressive Christianity and a part of the ecumenical Welcoming Church Movement.

For more information, call (949) 494-8061.

Morning prayers for men at Chabad

Chabad Jewish Center of Laguna Beach has been holding morning Minyan prayer services for men. They meet at 6:15 a.m. every morning, Monday through Friday, for about 45 minutes, with Torah readings on Monday and Thursday. Prayerbooks are in Hebrew/English. Men are invited to join.

Chabad is located at 30804 S. Coast Highway. For more information, call (949) 499-0770.