Hollister, the county seat of San Benito County and best known for its annual motorcycle rally, seems to belie this idea. There a heterogeneous group of pastors who are combining their efforts and are working together to show unity of spirit among Christians of different faith traditions.

Five pastors regularly meet in a back booth of a local diner on Wednesday mornings:

- The Rev. Bob Rufener, Abundant Life Four Square Church.

- The Rev. Ardyss Golden, Hollister United Methodist Church.

- The Rev. Matthew Trasek, Trinity Lutheran Church.

- The Rev. Jonathan Hughes, First Presbyterian Church.

- The Rev. Rudy Ruiz, St. Benedict-Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church.

Although not every minister attends every meeting and others sometimes attend, this is the core membership for Hollister's "Holy-Stir."

The group began meeting about two years ago when the pastors noticed that the anxiety level was rising in the community. One response was to inaugurate a series of ecumenical worship opportunities, bringing together as many residents as possible around various aspects of the theme of "peace."

These services have been held at many churches in a rotating schedule following the same format:

- Scripture readings

- Music

- Brief talks by all the clergy in attendance

- Prayer

People from other local congregations have attended these "Holy-Stir" services, raising the profile of Christianity in the community. Church members have become familiar with residents who attend different churches, gaining respect for varying faith traditions. As Pastor Golden says, "People sometimes gain a sense of belonging to a larger Christian family."

The clergy involved in this endeavor have gained much from belonging to the group. They consider it a support mechanism, a place to share confidentially the struggles and concerns in their own lives. Sometimes good advice is the result, but often just having a caring listener can ease burdens.

Holy-Stir has also broadened the perspective of these clergy. They have been exposed to a wider range of spirituality than is present in any one denomination. They stretch each other to appreciate and recognize aspects of their common faith that could be barriers in other contexts.

Even these joint services have served this purpose. Pastor Rufener gives the example of an Ash Wednesday service in which he participated. Ashes were applied to the foreheads of worshippers, and he observes, "At first I didn't feel comfortable with this, and it's not something I would do in my church. But I gained an understanding of how such an ancient rite could have deep meaning for some people."

Other pastors mention the differences in music among the churches or even how building architecture influences worship in different churches.

Jesus of Nazareth famously prayed that all his followers "would all be one." In Hollister it appears that many people are striving for that spiritual goal.

For information about the next Holy-Stir, call (831) 637-4240.

Chuck Flagg Chuck Flagg is a retired teacher with a passion for religion. Reach him at cflagg@svnewspapers.com.