Religion Notes

* YOUTH RALLY: Arleta Foursquare Church will hold its annual San Fernando Valley Street Beat Rally from 3 to 11 p.m. today at the church, 8025 Wheatland Ave., Sun Valley. Highlights include rap concerts, a children’s ministry with games and puppet shows and mariachi performances. The rally’s goal is to show youths alternatives to gangs and drugs, but it also aims to distribute food to 2,000 families, as well as clothing and toys to 700 children. Information: (818) 504-2552.

* OPEN HOUSES: The Kol Tikvah, a reform synagogue, will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, 20400 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills. A tour and orientation will offer an overview of the synagogue’s religious school, a late-starters B’nai Mitzvah program, preschool, adult education, the Chavurah program and youth group. Information: (818) 348-0670.

Conservative synagogue Temple Ramat Zion will hold an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, 17655 Devonshire St., Northridge. Tours will be led by synagogue members and professionals who will discuss programs, activities and membership dues. Information: (818) 360-1881.

* HIGH HOLIDAY PREPARATION: “Spiritual Preparation for the High Holidays,” two free evening mini-courses taught by Rabbi Steven Tucker, will explore the meaning of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur and teach the geography of the High Holiday prayer book, at 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday in Temple Ramat Zion, 17655 Devonshire St., Northridge. Information: (818) 360-1881.

* JUDAISM COURSE: The Union of American Hebrew Congregations is accepting registrations for “Introduction to Judaism,” an 18-week evening course for people of all backgrounds interested in learning how to participate more comfortably in Jewish life. Interfaith couples and people interested in converting to Judaism may find the class helpful. The course is offered at two San Fernando Valley locations--from 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays at Temple Ahavat Shalom, 18200 Rinaldi Place, Northridge, and beginning Oct. 21 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Temple Judea, 5429 Lindley Ave., Tarzana. Information and registration: (213) 653-9962.

* FAREWELL RECEPTION: St. James Presbyterian Church will host a farewell reception and luncheon for Pastor Ken Tracy and his wife, Carol, at 10:30 a.m. Aug. 31 at the church, 19414 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana. Information: (818) 345-2057.

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