________________________________VOLUME 41 NUMBER 8
October 2007
T H E
M e s s e n g e r
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH
Washington, DC
A Solid Foundation
By Pastor Renata Eustis
The other day, our seven-year-old daughter May told her father that she was glad that she was the only African-American person in our family. “It makes me special,” she proclaimed with her unique brand of confidence. Those words made me happier than any I’ve heard in a long time. My two primary parenting goals have been that our girls would feel deeply good about who they are and that they would be kind to others. It’s easier to see how they’re doing on the kindness front than it is to know how they feel inside. What a blessing to get a window into May’s inner life and see that strong and happy self!
I imagine that God has similar parenting goals. God wants each of God’s children to know that they are loved for the uniquely delightful person they are. I was thinking about this when our family was together at the Lutherans Concerned banquet, listening to Pastor Bradley Schmelling. Lutherans Concerned is a national organization that advocates for the full inclusion of people of all sexual orientations in the life of the ELCA. Pr. Schmelling, along with his congregation in Atlanta, has been at the center of an effort challenging the ELCA policy that precludes men and women in committed relationships with a person of the same gender from serving as pastors.
Over the past year, I have become more familiar with some of the complexities of these church policies. But in this moment, I found myself thinking along some very simple lines. I tried to imagine what it was like for Pr. Schmelling and so many others in the room to grow up feeling that there was something fundamentally wrong with them. Instead of believing you are special and wonderfully made, you believe you are one of God’s mistakes because you are not attracted to the opposite sex. You keep it hidden and try to “correct the mistake.” Then one day, the Gospel reaches your innermost self, and you hear—for the first time—that God delights in you. God—the One who knows you like no other—loves the whole of you. That Good News heals you and frees you to be the person you were created to be.
Like other oppressed people who have been delivered from slavery into freedom, Pr. Schmelling preaches the Gospel with power. He knows what the Good News can do and he has a passion for sharing it. In his talk, Pr. Schmelling said that he thought, as Lutherans we were in a unique position to lead other denominations because of the clarity of our theology. We are not saved by our morality but by the gracious gift of Jesus.
At the end of this month we will celebrate our Reformation heritage. The Church is again in a time of change. For many, this process is confusing, unsettling, or hurtful. As we stake out our positions, it’s a good time to remember “the solid ground on which we stand”: the all-encompassing love of God shown to us in Jesus Christ. As the hymn says it, “All other ground is sinking sand.” Amen.
How Good, Lord, to be Here!
By Mark Rohrbaugh, President
But that's not where the blessings end. The execution of the Yard Sale is not just hard work but, more importantly, a ministry to one another and to the community at large. It is a time for fellowship in those brief passing exchanges with each other during the course of the activity. It is a time to interact with and, in small ways, minister with those shopping. As Pastor said in her sermon last Sunday, we help some of the shoppers with the purchase of items they may not have been able to acquire otherwise. We facilitate their contribution to the beneficiaries through their purchases. We engage in stewardship of earth's resources by "recycling" items that may have gone to the landfill. Even those who -- owing to commitments or abilities, were not able to participate directly -- can share the joy these blessings bring this community. How good, Lord, to be here!
Experiences like this fill us as spiritual vessels. This reserve serves us well during our faith journey when those vessels feel they’re being tapped. We know these challenges will arise, but with the Spirit's lead, we grow in faith together as we rise to meet them.
We know that in the midst of such trials, our spiritual vessels will not be emptied. Some of these challenges may be related to renovation and budget matters or to the need for us as individuals, despite already significant workloads, to volunteer for tasks at hand. We may feel that the challenges drain us in some ways, but at the same time they provide spiritual sustenance in our journey together. I know I feel blessed to be part of this fellowship. How good, Lord, to be here!
VISIONING UPDATE
By Phil Hecht
The Visioning and Stewardship Committees met with our owner’s representative, Bob Waechter of JFW, Inc., on September 4 and again on October 2 to discuss the status of the planned renovation. The encouraging news is that we received approval from the DC Fine Arts Commission – yes, we needed it – to go forward with the renovation, and our construction permit also was approved by the D.C. government.
The sobering news is that the estimated cost of our planned scope of work exceeds, by a substantial amount, the funds that the Congregation has committed to the renovation. The committees decided on a two-pronged approach to address this financial challenge. First, we will send out the construction drawings to three or four general contractors for fixed-price bids, which, it is hoped, will result in a lower overall cost. Second, we will be contacting all of you who have made pledges to the Alive in Christ Campaign, and those who have not done so yet, to urge you to accelerate your schedule of giving or even to increase your pledge.
Even if these efforts are successful, however, it is clear to the committees that we will have to make some hard choices about which aspects of the planned renovation we can reasonably afford at this time and which aspects may have to be postponed. We will give a detailed presentation at the Congregation Meeting in November. Between now and then, please keep the committees in your prayers as they continue their work.
GOOD NEWS
By Vicar Christine May
What’s the first thing you think of when you hear the word ‘evangelism’? For some people this word conjures up scary and intimidating images. I used to have this image of a really pushy person knocking (or maybe pounding) on my door trying to get me to sign my life over to their idea of God. And their idea of God always sounded like a giant, distant eyeball in the sky watching and judging every move I made. To me, that sounds scary.
Evangelism is a Greek word which means: “Good news”. It also has the same root as the word for angels, which were messengers who announced good news. None of that sounds scary to me; it sounds like something which could be fun, something that could be connecting, something in which I would like to be involved.
To be a church about the business of evangelism is to announce the Good News of Jesus through word and deed – to be vibrant witnesses to the love of God made known in Jesus Christ. It is true that each follower of Jesus is called to be a witness of this love. It’s also true that sharing that love with our community can be done in many ways and with varying levels of comfort.
We are looking to create an evangelism team here at CLC. I imagine this as a ‘dream team’ – a group of people gathering together to share and explore old and new ways of reaching out and welcoming others in our community. If you are interested in working on this project, please contact Vicar Christine, either by phone (202.829.6727), email (clsm1217@starpower.net), or in person. Looking forward to dreaming…..
REJOICE IN GOD’S SAINTS!
By Elise Fisher
“Rejoice in God’s Saints, today and all days!
A world without saints forgets how to praise.”
--Hymn 418, Evangelical Lutheran Worship
Alleluia! We rejoice in our saints on Sunday, November 4, in Christ Church’s special way. Plain labels will be available in the narthex in October. Write on them the name or names of loved ones and friends you wish to commemorate on All Saints’ Sunday. Use as many labels as you wish. These labels will be placed on the Saints’ Banner that will lead us as we conclude the Service that day with the Procession to the Memorial Garden. There we will pray the Litany of All Saints including the reading of the names on the banner.
If you cannot be there, please call (202-829-6727), fax (202-882-3077); or e-mail (clcoffice@verizon.net) to the church office the names you’d like included. We will especially remember those we have laid to rest since last All Saints’ Day.
ON THE MINISTRY OF MUSIC
From Dr. Bryan G. Rowe, Director of Music, Christ Lutheran Church
The following is written by John Henry Jowett (1863-1923) about the ministry of music. He was one of the most celebrated preachers of his day. His pastorates included Carr’s Lane Chapel and Westminster Chapel. In the summer of 1909 he visited the United States and was a prominent speaker at the Northfield conference. His many publications include The Passion for Souls (1905) and The High Calling (1909).
“And I hear the voice of harpers harping with their harps…and they sang as if it were a new song.”
And the harps were to be gracious ministers in aiding the transformation of human sighing into human song, and of earthly discord into heavenly harmony. And it is in that exalted hour we place the organ in public worship. It is not the servant of an idle hour. It is not the costly minister of merely aesthetic entertainment. It is not a mere side-show, occupying an unconsecrated corner outside the holy place. The organ is one of the gifts of grace, appointed to minister to them who are heirs of salvation, and to woo them in the restful inspiration of the secret place of God. For all music, vocal and instrumental, is one of God’s most exquisite and most delicate gifts to all people.
Music is more pervasive than poetry, it is more ethereal, more insinuating, and it can sound its way into the hidden chambers of the life where the profoundest poetry could never reach. There are moods of the soul when poetry is irrelevant and almost irritating, and in those moods music brings the magic power which turns the iron gate upon its hinges, and floods the prison-house with light. “Next to theology,” said Martin Luther, who was himself a passionate lover of music, “next to theology, I give music the highest place of honor.” Next to theology, next to the very evangel of grace, next to the Gospel itself, Martin Luther ranked music as a holy means of human renewal and redemption.
It is in that exalted sphere that I wish to regard the possibilities of music in public worship, and in that lofty consideration the organ becomes the companion-minister of the Gospel for purifying and enlarging the souls of the family of God. “And the singers sang, and the trumpeters sounded…and the king, and all who were present with him, bowed themselves and worshiped.”
I thank God for the love of music at Christ Lutheran Church. I thank God for the living Holy Spirit in this place. I pray that these will lead us to greater heights to praise the One who gives us the very breath we breathe. Peace be with all of you, Bryan
Jowett, John Henry. The Ministry of Music. The American Organist, July 2005.
2007 SILENT AUCTION SLATED FOR
OCTOBER 28 and NOVEMBER 4
By Joanne Noll
Dates for this year's Silent Auction are Sundays, October 28 and November 4, during coffee hour. Once we take a deep breath after the Yard Sale, we will look forward to receiving items for the bid list. Now is the time to think about what you might DONATE to this year's fun event, which creates interaction all year long.
Past donations have included beach weekends, dinners, professional services, hand sewn and knitted items, theater tickets, etc. Let Joanne Noll know what you will donate, then sharpen your pencils and get ready to BID! It's fun and a great way to get to know each other's talents. Contact Joanne at 301-530-2265 or nollcaljo@juno.com.
THE 2007 YARD SALE WAS A BLESSING
By Joanne Noll
Blessings seemed to be woven into conversations during Yard Sale prep this year. "Isn't this weather wonderful." "How great that someone would travel and give two weeks of her time to help the CLC Yard Sale." We were indeed blessed in all kinds of ways.
The blessing of a group of people who are willing to help receive donations from folks, inventory these donations, and then transport them to storage, is a wonderful thing! The garage was full by July, but the inside storage space didn't look great until literally the last minute.
What a blessing to receive these late donations! The furniture in the garage was priced on September 8. The blessing of a few who were willing to price the furniture in the undercroft, hang signs, and place tables to be ready for carry out on September 16 was wonderful. Beginning the next day, we had the blessing of a talented, determined crew who sorted, tested, and priced. This dedicated group averaged almost 14 wonderful folks per day for 11 days including the Saturday in between.
The weather remained a blessing! The jewelry group, Janet Kelly, chair, sorted, cleaned and priced its inventory in the library. On Friday outside tables were set up. We were ready and the forecast was the blessing of a great day!
Sale Day, Saturday, September 29, continued to be a blessing with awesome weather! Our blessed workers stared arriving at 7:30 am and worked hard to get front lawn items from the big garage, both levels of the Parish Hall, the chapel, the undercroft, and the narthex. The blessings of this early work got us off to a great start. The jewelry tent was set up front and center, and the outside crew, under the direction of Bob Sylwester, went right to work. Joe Weber, Community of St. Dysmas, brought four guys ready to work outside. We were blessed with a great outside crew who worked hard all day under sunny skies.
Meanwhile, we had the blessing of another eager crew ready to go in the undercroft, and with a nice crowd who waited patiently to be admitted, we opened just before 10:00. The blessing of our long experience helped serve our customers all day. All in line were admitted by about 11:30. Great cashiers helped customers with their purchases. We had the blessing of folks from other congregations, some of our beneficiaries, and friends of members help make this a very blessed day!
Pastor Renata and Vicar Christine served coffee, juice, and cookies near the Gallatin Street entrance. They distributed information about our programs, the list of 2007 beneficiaries, and gave away CLC magnets. Transitional Housing Corporation had information on a table at the north sidewalk near its offices.
More than 80 members, former members, relatives, friends, and beneficiaries were a blessing as staff members both Saturday and Sunday. About 4:00 on Saturday some furniture and toys were brought inside and organized or Sunday hours. Jewelry was brought inside to a table in the undercroft.
The second sale day began Sunday after worship. Another day of blessed wonderful weather! The line started forming at 9:30 am and so heard us singing, praying, and applauding. (I love it!) A report on totals from Saturday was given at the end of worship. Doors opened after some furniture was taken out to Gallatin Street. We were blessed with a great group of workers on Sunday, too! Half-price day is challenging to the cashiers, but they were up to the task! All in line were inside by about 1:30.
Special thanks go to Pam Sieving, Tonya Holland, and Liz Malone, who prepared and served lunch on Saturday. Pam (and her soft boot cast) served on Sunday. Beth Mills and Bob Sylwester helped with the shopping, and members contributed special salads and dessert goodies. This respite is a blessing on two hectic days. David Blakemore and Alice Meyer again did the finance and accounting.
We also wish to thank Anne and Liz Garagusi of Fernwood Estate Sales, Bethesda, who are interested in the work we do and whose clients blessed us and Deja New with many donated items. Anne also kindly provided free advice and appraisals. Transitional Housing and Green Door worked during the prep period. The Community of St. Dysmas, Lifeline Partnership, Inc., and Deja New worked during sale days.
The blessing of a small but efficient cleanup crew who worked on Monday was wonderful! They were treated to a deli lunch by the staff at THC who stayed and enjoyed fellowship. Numbers of workers fell sharply after that, but the job got done. Cleanup is blessedly finished as of Wednesday, October 3, the time of this writing. Organizations benefiting so far are: Deja New Thrift Store, C4 Clothes Closet (Montgomery County), St. John's Lutheran (Rockville) yard sale, the Morgan Foundation, Wheaton Library, Takoma Park Library, Lutheran Social Services, Samaritan Ministry, Ivymount (special needs) School auction, DC Humane Society, and Ambassador Baptist Church (SE).
Receipts as of October 3 are a blessed $29,011 with the promise of a bunch of IOU's. We have been granted additional funding in the amount of $4,800. from the Care Abounds in Communities Program of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. There is also the possibility of another $1,400 in congregational funding from Thrivent.
Beneficiaries this year are:
Transitional Housing Corporation, Lutheran Social Services, Bethany Women's Center at N Street Village, Lutheran World Relief, Community of St. Dysmas, Bread for the City, Green Door, Charles H. Fortson Therapeutic Summer Day Camp, Lifeline Partnership, Inc., Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light, National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Tanzania Church Missions, Latino Ministry in Langley Park.
A very blessed sale by a wonderful group of caring and giving Christians who are blessed to be known as Christ Lutheran Church!
THEOLOGICAL BOOK CLUB: READING AND SHARING TOGETHER
By Carla B. Howery
The Theological Book Club welcomes anyone to come on a one-time or continuing basis, to share thoughts about books that aid our faith journey,
We are meeting monthly and we rotate who selects the book to read and kicks off the discussion (the name in parentheses). We meet promptly at 12:15pm, now in the Wenchel Chapel.
October 21 --- Elizabeth Sifton -- The Serenity Prayer (Herb Turvey) --
Sifton is the daughter of theologian Reinhold Neibuhr, who wrote the Serenity Prayer (many of us were surprised to know!)
November 11 – Ken Wilber -- Integral Spirituality (TBD)
Please come when you can or when a book catches your attention. And we welcome suggestions for books!
All Saints’ Banner
All Saints’ Sunday is right around the corner (November 4) and once again we will have a banner with names of the saints we remember on this day. Please call the church office, 202/829-6727, or email, clcoffice@verizon.net, with the names you would like included on the banner.
Christian Education Corner
By Tim Breitbarth
Autumn is here, and that means CLC’s education programs are in full swing. Sunday School and Confirmation classes are teaching Biblical concepts to our kids, along with our new program – Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for our youngest members. Adult Forum provides adults an opportunity to ponder and discuss the Scripture, and we are hoping to add more educational programs for kids and adults in the near future. Throughout the year, we will provide frequent updates on all of our programs in the Messenger and Sunday bulletin.
Confirmation Classes
Confirmation classes for youth in the 7th and 8th grades will begin October 14 following worship services. Confirmation classes will be meeting on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month, which will include a light lunch. We are also planning some service activities and fellowship gatherings. If you are interested in assisting with Confirmation (shepherd, teacher, chaperone), please see Vicar Christine, Kendall Bentz, or Karin Klingman.
Children’s Message Resources
Have you ever wanted to give a children's message but were unsure of how to do it? Well, the Education Committee has put together a package of materials to help you out, including a set of books with ideas for stories and lessons. There is even a list of tips to help you plan a successful children's sermon. These materials are in the children's section of the Library.
Have an Idea for Christian Education?
If you have an idea for a Christian education at CLC, email Tim Breitbarth at tbreitbarth@gmail.com. We are always open to fresh ideas, and we are looking for more people to serve on the Education Committee.
Age 3-6 class off to a Great Start!
By Carolina Glauster
If you wandered past the Nursery while carrying Yard Sale items, you may have noticed that it has a new look. The Atrium – the room where our new Catechesis of the Good Shepherd class meets – is set up, and we have already had three class meetings there. We have about six regular student attendees so far, with two or three more who are hoping to join us soon.
Paige and I have been impressed with the children's quick adjustment to the new space and their enthusiasm about the materials and work we are doing in the Atrium. We have already learned a few new songs, prayed together, and been introduced to several different materials including our Prayer Table, a place where children can sit in prayer or meditation on a variety of materials designed to help them "taste and see the goodness of the Lord." Another point of interest has been flower arranging, and almost every child has had at least one chance to create a beautiful arrangement of flowers to the glory of God. It has been a pleasure to watch each of the children go about her or his chosen work with such concentration and devotion.
In the coming weeks, we will be introducing the Altar materials as well as some materials relating to Liturgical Seasons. A few of these materials (as well as many of the Advent materials and beyond) still need to be made. If you are interested in helping, please speak to me (Carolina), and I will provide you with detailed plans for any of a variety of projects. I am also happy to give tours of our beautiful Atrium to interested grownups – just speak to me at coffee hour and I'll take you down and show you around. Thank you for your support!
This graphic is the Stephen Ministry logo, which consists of a cross and a circle, together with a broken person and a whole person. The broken person stands behind the cross, symbolizing the brokenness in our lives as a result of our sin. The whole person stands in front of the cross because it is through the cross of Christ that we are again made whole. The circle symbolizes both the wholeness we receive through Christ and God’s unending love for us. As a Stephen Ministry Congregation, each of us is called to be instruments of God’s healing love for each other and all of creation. For more details about our newly forming Stephen Ministry, contact Pastor Renata, Carla Howery or Vicar Jeanne.
STEPHEN MINISTRY: LOOKING AHEAD
By Carla B. Howery, Co-Coordinator, Stephen Ministry
WE ARE ALL PART OF THE STEPHEN MINISTRY
Stephen Ministry is based on the idea that all Christians are ministers. The responsibility for passing on God’s love is for all Christians, not just for a chosen few. God has given us all gifts for ministry and called us to put those gifts to use. Stephen Ministry is a place where people with special gifts for caring ministry can use those gifts to bring Christ’s love to people in need. If you are interested in reading some of the books the Stephen Ministers are using, contact Carla Howery to purchase copies, at cost of:
Christian Caregiving: A Way of Life $16
Speaking Truth in Love $14
Stephen Ministry will be part of Christ Lutheran Church’s overall caregiving, which includes pastoral care, prayer, random acts of kindness, and organized acts of kindness! The recent generosity of the congregation in donations to Stephen Ministry at the Strawberry Festival and in the proposed budget shows the commitment of our Church.
YOUR REFERRALS ARE NEEDED
A key part of the Stephen Ministry training is to help the Ministers know when a professional referral is needed. For example, many life events bring expected sadness, indeed sadness is an appropriate and healing response. But what if the care receiver seems to be experiencing clinical depression? The Stephen Minister will want to discuss that possibility with the care receiver and possibly make a referral.
If you have professional people with whom you have worked, please give us their names and contact information. The Stephen Ministry program is trying to assemble a list of recommended professionals (counselors, psychiatrists, lawyers, job consultants) to have on hand. We will not use your name, but your recommendation of quality people is key! Send this information to Carla Howery at Carla.howery@gmail.com. Thank you.
OUR NEXT COHORT COULD INCLUDE YOU!
We continue to converse with St. Alban’s, The National Presbyterian Church, the AME church – all to share training and continuing education. If you are interested in exploring service as a Stephen Minister, talk to the five who are currently in that role (Caroline Glauster, Debbie Coker, Karin Klingman, Linda Ott, and Carla Howery) and Pastor Renata. At present, we may have a new cohort starting training after Easter (2008) and/or you can affiliate with a consortium of churches that have training October-March 2008-9 (yes, a whole year from now). Those sessions are held at the National Presbyterian Church. In short, there are many ways for one or two or more people to get involved and become trained for this ministry.
GIVING AND RECEIVING
The yard sale is over, successful and satisfying, and one of the key ways our congregation gives to our community. Sometimes it is easier to be a giver than to be a receiver. Stephen Ministry founder Stephen Haugk notes, “Strange that we Christians should find it difficult to be gracious receivers when we confess that our entire lives – physical and spiritual – are gifts of God’s spirit. And although the Bible stresses giving, it also gives us examples of receiving.”
In the Stephen Ministry leadership training, the St. Louis office staff noted that churches often have to encourage parishioners to take advantage of this Ministry. In congregations where people are well-educated, function at a high level at work and in the community, they may not feel comfortable “receiving.” If they have concerns, they seek professional help. They may feel problems need to be large and serious to merit asking for help. They may be committed to a high degree of self-reliance. They may not be willing to let down their guard and let God’s word come in through the care and prayer of a Stephen Minister.
Open ourselves to the grace of God, the caregiving that can come in many forms, including through Stephen Ministry. Receive care, so that one might give care. We are an interlocking community. Contact Pastor Renata if being a carereceiver now is the right step for you.
Come join the Young Adults’ Group!
Do you want to get to know the other CLC young adults better? Are you interested in talking more about how your faith fits in with your everyday life? Do you want to have dinner parties, watch football, go to cookouts, study the Bible, make new friends, or bond with old ones? We’ve got the group for you! Join us for the first meeting after church on Sunday, October 28 at 1 pm. We will come together for a potluck lunch in the library and discuss what we want to get out of this group, and the kinds of things we would like to do together. If you consider yourself a “young adult,” we hope you will come—and bring a friend or two! Questions? Please contact Valentine at valentine_woods@hotmail.com or (919) 624-9604. If you have children, talk to Valentine—you can either bring them along, or we can try to arrange childcare.
Happy Hour & Faith Questions with Bishop Graham
Thursday, December 6
7:00pm—9;00pm
Ireland’s Four Fields
3412 Connecticut Ave., NW
Near the Cleveland Park Metro
All young adults in the Metro DC Synod are invited to come together for Happy Hour and Faith Questions with Bishop Graham. Enjoy drinks and fellowship before we settle down for conversation with the Bishop. Ask the Bishop all of those things you’ve always wondered about -- the church, faith, the Bible, etc. It will take place in an informal, happy hour type setting that offers the opportunity to meet other young adult Lutherans in the metro-DC area. RSVPs are helpful, but not required to mlovell@stpaulslutherandc.com.
*”Young adult” is a loosely defined term. It usually refers to someone in their 20s, 30s, or early 40s. Some young adults are single, others are in committed relationships and still others are married. There are those with and without children. No one will be turned away, so come and join us!
FAREWELL …..
CLC’s Music Director, Dr. Bryan Rowe, will be leaving on November 4. That day, All Saints’ Sunday, Bryan will offer a special prelude in honor of the many saints in our lives. Treat yourself to a time of prayerful reflection and come early to hear this extended prelude. We will miss Bryan and Barb Rowe and surround them with our prayers in this time.
CALLING ALL YOUTH
Christ Lutheran Church invites all children ages 11 years and above to a Youth Conference with featured guest speaker Ebassa Berhanu, of Minneapolis MN. Vicar Ebassa is a youth leader in the Oromo Congregation in Minneapolis. The conference will be held here at CLC on Friday, October 19, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm and Saturday, October 20, from 11:00am to 6:00pm. Lunch and refreshments will be served on Saturday. Please plan to come out and show your support for the youth of CLC and the Oromo. If you have any question please call Solome Tesemma at 301-891-6737 or the church office at 202-829-6727.
A NOTE FROM EBASSA…..
My name is Ebassa Berhanu. I am originally from the beautiful country of Ethiopia and have been in the United States for over fifteen years. My father was a pastor in Ethiopia for over 25 years and upon retiring from there he took a call, in Sudan, MN, on the Iron Range where he now resides. My mother was a stay-at-home mother and is a very devout woman of God and I also have four wonderful brothers.
I got married this past summer to an incredible woman, Hana Berhanu. I grew up in the small town of Embarrass, Minnesota, where I was very active in sports such as football, cross-country, basketball, and track. After high school I attended the University of Wisconsin-Superior and majored in International Business and Management.
After graduating from college, I attained a job with Walgreens as a Manager and also began committing myself with the youth program at the Oromo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. As I got more involved with the youth program, I felt God calling me to serve him in his house as a pastor. I fought with the idea for the longest time, but after much prayer and thought I decided to resign from Walgreens. Hence, I began attending Luther Seminary to pursue the call in my life.
I am now in my third year at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN, working towards getting my degree in the Master of Divinity. I will be going to Rockford, IL, at the end of October to do internship. I am planning on graduating May of 2009, and God willing receive a call from a congregation soon after.
THC Weekend!
Transitional Housing Cooperation and Christ Lutheran Church will be furnishing an apartment at Partner Arms I on October 13. Most of the home furnishings have already been gathered from the yard sale donations. Now, we need to turn an apartment into a home. We will be meeting on October 13 at 9:30am to load up the items and take them to the apartment. We need trucks, willing hands, and warm hearts. The more people we have helping, the quicker it will go (and it will be more fun). If you have any questions or are planning to help out, please let Vicar Christine know (clsm1217@starpower.net or church phone) so we can make plans.
The next day, after church, we will be having a mini-walk to support the efforts of THC. This is in conjunction with the larger “Help the Homeless” walk-a-thon which takes place in DC. We will conduct our mini-walk immediately following worship (down 16th Street and back). Afterwards we will gather for coffee hour and a special Popsicle treat!
Installation of Bishop Graham
The Rev. Richard Graham will be installed as bishop of the Metro DC Synod on Sunday, October 14, 7:30 p.m., at St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Silver Spring. “Why a Roman Catholic Church?” you might ask. It turns out that the National Cathedral (Episcopal) is already being used on that night and none of the area Lutheran churches have sanctuaries that are large enough. The Bishop will be installed by ELCA Presiding Bishop, Mark Hanson. There will be a choir composed of singers from congregations across the synod. All are invited to this special celebration.
WREATHS AND YOUTHS…..
Yes, it’s early to start thinking about Christmas, but it’s never too early to support youth efforts! The youth (Confirmation and older) are trying to support themselves in some of their activities this year which require financial obligation.
To do this, we are selling wreaths and other greenery for holiday decorating. The greens will be available at the end of November/early December. They will be delivered to the church, and you will be able to pick them up here.
We will be selling greens on the following Sundays: October 21, 28, and November 4. Vicar Christine can answer any questions you may have.
CHRIST CHURCH CLASSIFIEDS
Free to a good home: yellow female lovebird (and cage and food). Call Carla Howery 301-587-3971.
Siem Reap adventure -- Linda Ott met up with husband Mack to tour the temples and do some sightseeing in Cambodia. They spent time in Phnom Penh shopping, sightseeing and eating great food, in Siem Reap looking at Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayan and other temples, and at the beach in Sihanoukville (southern Cambodia) to kick back and enjoy the view. It was a great trip.
Lizzy Ott has settled into her new apartment in Bethesda with childhood pal, Laura Jane Lazarus Jay (LJLJ). They took full advantage of the Yard Sale to find stuff to stock their new digs. Lizzy will be in the DC area over the next year working at the American Psychological Association.
Bryan Kelly's wife, Amy, and their infant son, Zachary, are appearing in "Save Darfur" commercial spots on CNN throughout the month of September. The taping was done in Venice, CA, near their home.
Thank you!
Many, many thanks to all of you who have been so excited for us about our upcoming marriage! Since we first announced our engagement, we have been surrounded by your love and encouragement, and we have not taken that lightly. As we prepare to marry on October 13th in North Carolina, we will be taking that love and enthusiasm with us. To Marilyn Zukel, our gracious shower hostess, and all of the women who were able to attend—thank you for a lovely afternoon and for all of your generous gifts. We have been overwhelmed by your support during this exciting time in our lives and look forward to sharing pictures and stories when we return at the end of the month!
- Valentine Woods and Tim Breitbarth
PLAYGROUP FORMS!
A new playgroup is forming! The focus of this group is for adults and children to gather during the week for playtime and fellowship. This group is designed to be a support for those caring for children during the day. Group members do not need to be members of the church. We hope to have fun together, support each other, create friendships, and help our children to develop. We plan to meet on Thursday mornings at 10am. Share this information with friends and family. Please contact Vicar Christine at the church or clsm1217@starpower.net OR Lucia Rist at lucia.rist@gmail.com.
NEWS FLASH!!! The new playgroup met for the first time on Thursday morning, October 4. Eight toddlers and their significant grown-ups gathered for fellowship and fun. The laughter trickling through the building was contagious. What a blessing!
CLC T-SHIRTS A BIG HIT!
Many of us wore our new red CLC T-shirts while working at the Yard Sale. So many of you wanted them that we became out-of-stock in the most common sizes. They will be re-ordered soon! Not only did we "look good" as a community, we were easy to identify if someone had questions about an
item or our work. If you have a special size or order request, please get in touch with Joanne, nollcaljo@juno.com.
GIFTS OF HOPE
By Alice Meyer
What are Gifts of Hope? They are an alternative gift-giving opportunity. Instead of buying a material gift for someone, a Gift of Hope is a purchase of a mission opportunity in your recipient's name. They vary in price from $5 (hearing aid batteries or books for kids and GED students) to $250 (a week of summer camp for one child).
Gifts of Hope, the alternative gift-giving program in the Metropolitan Washington, DC, Synod (ELCA), is starting its 16th season. Since 1992, over $1,000,000 has been raised to help people in need in our community and around the world! And every penny received has gone directly to the beneficiaries.
For each gift you purchase, you receive three items, which you can give to your friend, family member, coworker, or anyone you desire:
Card – a Christmas card or an All Occasion card.
An Envelope
An Insert Describing Your Chosen Alternative Gift
The actual gift will be delivered by the designated ministry or organization to the beneficiary (for example, ice cream treats for a needy child or mattresses for orphaned or abandoned children in Namibia).
Each congregation can select an additional organization as their #40. Once again, Christ Lutheran is adding additional items that Transitional Housing Corporation (THC) needs for their programs.
THC is listed in the main catalog with the Women’s Wellness Program ($50) and Reading Club Books ($20). We are adding the following for our #40:
40a. A week of summer camp for one Partner Arms child ($200)
40b. A week of providing utilities for a Partner Arms family ($75)
40c. A season’s worth of garden seeds, plants and supplies for a family participating in the Partner Arms Garden Club ($25)
40d. A Month of Graduate Equivalency Diploma (GED) materials, training and tutoring for a Partner Arms resident: Help support and enhance the preparation of the Partner Arms residents who are working towards their GED as part of their efforts to improve their ability to support their families. Materials include computer software, assessment and practice materials and support for regular volunteer tutoring sessions ($100)
If an item appeals to you but you don't want to give the full amount, that's okay. Whatever amount you give will be applied to that item.
If you have questions, please call me (301-650-2292) or email Alice Meyer (bannerz@starpower.net).
I have the materials available now for those who are planning ahead for Christmas or have a special occasion coming soon. If that's the case, I'll be glad to put together the cards and catalogs for you. I'll start having them at coffee hour in November.
Come and See Samaritan Ministry!
Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington (SMGW) invites you to attend a one-hour, free “come-and-see” event, called a “Next Step Experience.” It’s an opportunity to learn more about the Next Step program and SMGW’s employment, social, and HIV/AIDS services. You will hear directly about how program participants’ lives have been changed and have an opportunity to ask questions and get tour of our office. The next events will be held on Tuesday, October 23 at the NW D.C. office, and Tuesday November 27 at the Southeast D.C. office. Please contact Diane Aten at daten@samaritanministry.org or 202-722-2280, ext. 304, for more information and to RSVP.
BREAK THE BOTTLED WATER HABIT
Did you know you can reduce your carbon footprint, preserve our water resources, save money, and give yourself a chance at some great prizes in one simple step? It’s a win-win situation for you, the community, and the ecosystem…and you can win a free condo for a week at a ski resort in Idaho.
What do you have to do? Just fill out the pledge form at www.c3.newdream.org and then fill up your reusable water bottle. It’s that easy. You’ll be doing your part to reduce the 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide produced in the manufacture of plastic bottles for U.S. consumption last year. Imagine saving the energy equivalent of a quarter bottle of oil for every bottled water you would have consumed—not to mention the money!
Visit the C3 site to sign up and then tell your friends: you could win a free condo for a week at a ski resort in Idaho or one of several other terrific prizes.
Bottled water is often marketed as being purer than other water. In the U.S., however, tap water is more closely regulated than bottled water, while as much as 40% of commercially available water starts out as tap water. While bottled water can cost as much as $10 a gallon, when you consider that only about 12% of the plastic is recycled, the environmental expenses associated with a momentary convenience are far greater and long-lasting.
Help break the bottled water habit and sign up today!
Go to http://c3.newdream.org/campaigns/c3/invite/025d3e123c4548af0ff88e62f3db9d46/ to join the campaign and learn more about becoming a Carbon Conscious Consumer.
LSS COULD USE YOUR HELP!
It’s a busy time of year for the Refugee and Immigrant Services of Lutheran Social Services. They are settling at least 150 refugees this fall. Here’s how you can help:
*Make a cash donation toward rent assistance (average rent is $1,000 per month).
*Volunteer as a mover to pick up donated furniture or set up new apartments.
*Donate beds and frames (single, queen, full), pillows, blankets, alarm clocks.
*Drive clients to appointments.
*Contribute kitchen supplies.
*Pick up extra school supplies when shopping.
Contact Summer Parrish at parrishs@lssnca.org or 202-723-3000, ext. 199.
CIRCLE THE WAGONS
November 11th
At the home of Paige Sullivan, 3:00-5:00pm
All CLC women are invited to come for an afternoon of relaxing fellowship away from the slings and arrows of daily life!