DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE: The Master’s Seminary...

DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE: The Master’s Seminary in Sun Valley has established a Doctor of Theology program in four areas of specialization: Bible Exposition, Old Testament, New Testament and Systematic Theology. This three-to-five year program is predicated upon previous completion of a validated Master of Theology degree. Applications are now being accepted. The Master’s Seminary is at 13248 Roscoe Blvd. Information: (800) 225-5867.

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HONORING LABOR: Ceil Sorenson will moderate a program that will honor those who have struggled up from serfdom and slavery, “Labor Day--More Than a Picnic,” at the 10:45 a.m. Sunday services at Sepulveda Unitarian-Universalist Society, 9550 Haskell Ave., North Hills. Free. Information: (818) 894-9251.

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TORAH STUDY GROUP: The Torah study group of the West Valley Jewish Community Center will meet from 10 to 11:30 a.m. every Monday at the center, 22622 Vanowen St., West Hills. Free to members. The cost is $4 for guests. Information: (818) 464-3300.

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JEWISH WOMEN’S LUNCH: The National Council of Jewish Women Vista Val Division will hold a luncheon meeting and watch a performance by entertainer Archie Barkan at 11:30 a.m. Monday at the Calabasas Inn, 23500 Park Sorrento Drive. A $35 donation is requested. Proceeds benefit the National Council of Jewish Women’s Children’s Services. Information and reservations: (818) 885-0409.

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FREE HEBREW CLASS: The National Jewish Outreach Program and Valley Jewish Learning Center will offer a free three-session Hebrew reading class from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. beginning Monday at Shaarey Zedek Congregation, 12800 Chandler Blvd., North Hollywood. Information and registration: (818) 760-3245.

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DAY OF TRANSFORMATION: Brother Peter Gelfer, from St. John of God Retirement and Care Center, will speak on “The Wounds of St. John of God: From Trauma to Transformation” at the Catholic Community luncheon meeting at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Beverly Garland Holiday Inn, 4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood. The cost is $14. Information and reservations: (818) 846-3271.

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EREV SHABBAT: Rabbi Jerry Brown will lead an Erev Shabbat service at 8 p.m. Friday at Temple Ahavat Shalom, 18200 Rinaldi Place, Northridge. An Oneg Shabbat service will immediately follow the Erev service. Free. Information: (818) 360-2258.

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PRAYER WORKSHOP: A Centering Prayer workshop will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 9 at Holy Spirit Retreat Center, 4316 Lanai Road, Encino. Centering Prayer is a tradition of contemplative prayer in the Christian tradition. The cost is $40 including lunch and $30 excluding lunch. Information and registration: (818) 784-4515.

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News and announcements for this column can be sent to Religion Desk, Los Angeles Times, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth 91311.