February 4, 2010
Friends:
One can be sure of nonviolent victory once fear is conquered in oneself. - Gandhi
Great to sing the Old Time Hymns this past Sunday and be reminded of the Faith Stream of which we baptismally flow. The Choir gave us a fine gift with Masithi & Child of the Light (thanks to Sue Field’s arranging skills); one can never get enough Schubert and how wonderful to be Blessed by our Elders.
Our Annual Meeting will follow worship this next Sunday. This is the ideal time to learn about the realities, successes and challenges facing our congregation. Please read the Annual Report if you received a copy this past Sunday in order to digest all the tasks, events and prayerful gatherings that were accomplished during 2009. It will deepen your appreciation for the leadership skills of our Council members and the Clergy Contingent. With the Debt Retired we will be able to focus anew on our Ministry Priorities and sustaining Peace through our voluntary efforts. Come and create the future with us and the Spirit.
This Sunday Pr. Anita will share ideas for the development of our Sunday School. Good things are coming our way!
The Nubian Strings will provide musical leadership for our worship on Sunday while Sue is attending a conference. If you enjoy harp and violin and spirited playing don’t miss this. Invite your friends. You will also get to meet our new Seminarian Emily Weller.
A Letter of Gratitude was received from CAPMT who held 5 Recitals at Peace on January 23. As Sue reported there were at least 1,000 people from all over Northern California who were in attendance at Peace throughout that day. What a marvelous community gift. Their letter is posted on our Kiosk.
Please keep our Early Communion Class members Nargiz and Evelyn, the Catechumens and the people of Haiti – the orphans, amputees and all in despair in your prayers.
The Prayer Circle invites you to join them for Prayer in the Sanctuary around the Singing Bowl at 9:50 each Sunday as a prayerful way to begin our day’s worship. Details to come.
And a Special Invite:
Valentine’s Day Wine and Chocolate Tasting
When: February 14, 2010, 6:15 PM… right after Jazz at Peace
Where: Peace Lutheran Church, Danville
Tickets available at the door before and after the concert: $10 per person
Wine and chocolate— what a wonderful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Share a taste treat with your Valentine. At Peace we’re offering a Wine and Chocolate tasting that will match different red and white wines with different varieties of chocolate. Gil Jardine, Peace’s resident wine expert will bring the wine while Susannah El Mogazi, Peace’s resident Chocolatier will provide the chocolate.
The tasting will start at 6:15 PM right after the Jazz at Peace Concert. So jazz fans can buy tickets before the concert and those who aren’t attending can get tickets after the concert. The tasting will kick-off with a brief discussion about the wines and the art of matching wine with chocolate.
Bring your Valentine and enjoy!
Question: What is your message, Mr. Gandhi? “My life is my message.”
That is true for all of us. What’s your message?
Blessings, Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News 
No Comments »
January 21, 2010
Friends:
Let me say this before rain becomes a utility that they can plan and distribute for money. By “they” I mean the people who cannot understand that rain is a festival, who do not appreciate its gratuity, who think that what has no price has no value, that what cannot be sold is not real, so that the only way to make something actual is to place it on the market. The time will come when they will sell you even your rain. At the moment it is still free, and I am in it. I celebrate its gratuity and its meaninglessness. Think of it pouring down, selling nothing, judging nobody, drenching the thick mulch of dead leaves, soaking the trees, filling the gullies and crannies of the wood with water, washing out places we have stripped away. Listen to its wonderful, unintelligible, perfectly innocent speech. Nobody started it and nobody is going to stop it. The rain will speak as long as it wants and I am going to listen. - Thomas Merton
The Council has committed $500 as a “Matching Fund” for Haitian Support this Sunday through Lutheran World Relief. LWR has pledged $1 million to overall relief work in Haiti. LWR is accepting donations to the “Haiti Earthquake Fund” on its website, by phone at 800-LWR-LWR-2 and by mail at P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832. Members of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans can get their gifts to LWR matched. Thrivent is giving $1 for every $2 donated. For more information or to have your gift matched, visit Lutheran World Relief: Haiti Earthquake.
Sue Field invites you to attend any or all of the CAPMT Recitals this Saturday at Peace. Recitals are at 10:30, Noon, 2:00 pm, 4:00 and 5:00 pm. The performers are from all over northern California who have achieved a superior rating in their Fall Performances.
Lori Eickmann sends her thanks to all who assisted with her Ordination. That includes: the congregation of Peace for hosting this celebration, Maili Malvre for serving as the Scripture Bearer, Charlene McPherson for Altar Guild coordination, Brielle Strom as our Acolyte, Karl Pfeiffer our Crucifer, and the Hospitality Team consisting of Gun Johnston, Nancy Carlston, Pat Thergesen, Lois McGee and Marlene Garrity. Musicians Alice O’Sullivan and Bruce Silverman presented marvelous musical gifts. The offering for the Ordination went to support another woman seminarian preparing for ministry at PLTS Seminary. Bishop Mark Holmerud said he was impressed with Peace and the creative worship too.
The Catechumenate Class begins Sunday evening, January 31st. There are 5 people in the class. If you want to participate you are welcomed. Share your questions with me if you have any.
The Early Communion Class begins this Sunday, January 23 at 3 pm at the Warner’s home. Children in grades 2 – 5 are encouraged to participate.
The Partnership Committee invites all members of Peace to our Partnership Retreat on Saturday, February 20, at 1:30 p.m. here at Peace. The purpose of this retreat is to provide you with in-depth information about our partnership ministries in Nicaragua and South Africa (including travel reports), and do develop objectives for future projects/activities. If you usually don’t attend our regular meetings, this retreat will be a great opportunity to learn more about our Partnership in a single afternoon. The retreat will conclude with a light meal.
Please keep in your prayers: Spoon Jackson, Tammy Winter, Jim, Denise, Richard, Ed, Randy, Declan, Jerry Slater, Gerry Grosz, Dick Byrum, the family of Susan Fetzner the unemployed, the people of Haiti, and Peace Counseling Center.
We look forward to meeting recently birthed Antonio Eloy Garzon and Marko Andre’ Johansson!
Love your enemies. Far from being the pious injunction of a Utopian dreamer, the command to love one’s enemy is an absolute necessity for our survival. Love for our enemies is the key solution to the problems of our world. Jesus is not an impractical idealist; he is a practical realist. We have followed the practical advice of violence throughout the ages which has led us inexorably to deeper confusion and chaos. We must find another way. Love, the creative force of Christ’s life, is the most potent resource available to us today. - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King
Blessings, Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News Comments Off
January 15, 2010
Friends:
There is a certain wisdom that settles into a life that does not attempt to control what everybody else ought to be thinking, saying, doing or voting on. Wisdom, health, life and love cannot be found in trying to control the wind, but rather in harnessing the wind in the sails of receptive engagement of the present moment. Enjoy the Spirit’s breathing. - Martin Laird
We celebrate Lori Eickmann’s Ordination this Saturday at 3:00 p.m. Please keep Lori in your prayers and participate in this blessing affirming her calling.
Children in 2nd - 5th Grades are welcomed to participate in the Early Communion Class which will begin on Sunday, January 23rd. This is a delightful experience for the whole family. Contact me with your questions or for more information.
Are you hungering for a deeper spiritual exploration: maturing experiences of reflection, prayer and conversation? The Catechumenate program may fit your need. Running from Epiphany through Pentecost this ancient teaching/prayer practise will lead you to a more profound experience of your faith. This is an Untensive (not an intensive)! Talk with me if you are interested. You do not have to be a spiritual genius to begin!
Be sure to examine the Crosses from Bali and Ethiopia that Margaret Beeler’s family have presented to Peace. There are so many expressions of our faith.
Our Annual Congregational Meeting will be on February 7 following worship.
There was a refreshing Spirit at our Open House last Sunday. Bev and I are thankful for all who could attend. We promise that there will be more!
Keep your camel bags ready for travel in surprising Epiphany ventures.
Blessings, Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News No Comments »
January 7, 2010
Friends:
O Christ, you saw the world through the eyes of a Child. Save us from pride, anxiety, fear and apathy. May we see ourselves with clarity, in simplicity and honesty.
Bev and I invite you to our Open House this Sunday from 3 - 6 pm. Our address will be in Sunday’s bulletin and it’s in the Directory. If you want to bring finger foods you may. Please come by.
We will take our Christmas Tree down after worship this Sunday. Your assistance is appreciated. Also Tammy Valenta invites those who love to sew to bring your sewing machines to church so we can complete costumes for next year’s production.
Congratulations to Margareta and Jan Johansson on the birth of grandson Marco yesterday. Quite an Epiphany gift!
An Early Communion Class for kids in 2nd - 5th Grades will begin on Sunday, January 24. If your child would like to participate, please speak with me .
Lori Eichmann’s Ordination Service is Saturday, January 16 at 3:00 pm. Please attend and offer your prayers for her ministry. Maili Malvre is coordinating the Reception. Speak with her if you can assist.
Jazz at Peace this past Sunday was astounding! 135 - 140 people gathered to celebrate, sing and dance the love and peace presented by the Richard Howell Quintet. Richard’s 11 year old son is an amazing conga player. Half a dozen people said to me, ‘I can’t believe this is happening in a church!”
A new Tai Chi Chuan Class begins on Thursday, January 21 at 7:00 pm. New participants are welcomed.
The Women’s Group will meet next Wednesday, January 13 from 10 - 12 Noon at Peace.
Please keep in your prayers: Declan, Richard, Ed, Genevieve, Denise, Heather’s cousin, Jim Heinemeier, the unemployed, those living with addictions, the monks of Bat Nha Monastery, those searching the dark for light.
Wasn’t Shanise our guest singer a gift on Sunday? Thanks to Sue Field for creating beautiful music with her.
Congratulations to Parisa and Ro LoBianco who appeared in the Bay Area Kids Magazine in an article on how local couples and families celebrate Interfaith Holidays on occasions like Christmas. The article is posted on our Kiosk. Ro is willing to autograph copies but Parisa isn’t so sure.
Blessed Epiphany! Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News Comments Off
December 18, 2009
Friends:
“O God, let you face shed its light upon us: redeem the darkness of our night that we may see and understand your ways upon earth and live in the wisdom of faith and love.”
This is a Mary Sunday Celebration for us. Come prepared to be loved. We are also hoping to decorate the “Rockefeller Tree” (as it has been affectionately named) after worship. Thanks to Charlene, Everett, Ro and Sue for helping the tree to stand so magnificently!
Please bring your Giving Tree Gifts with you to worship this Sunday. Your gifts should be wrapped and have the ornament taped on. (A few Ornaments remain on the Giving Tree. If you wish to know what they are please call the office.)
Our Christmas Services will be at: 5:00 pm - The Family Christmas Pageant; 10:00 pm - Candlelight and Communion; and Christmas Day at 10:00 am. Please plan to linger a few minutes after our Christmas Eve services and enjoy warm buttered cinnamon bread and wassail.
Please check out a potential New Hymnal after worship this Sunday with Sue and Charlene. It would replace the 3 hymnals we are currently using.
Thursday at 5:45: The Night of Rumi - during our Meditation time we will hear and enjoy the poetry of the Mystic Rumi. You will laugh, relax and enjoy being alive.
Friday at 6:30 pm: Beth Chaim invites you to celebrate Hanukkah with them at this Interfaith Celebration. It will be a joyful, uplifting evening.
Lori Eichmann invites you to her Ordination on Saturday, January 16 at 3:00 pm at Peace. This will be a great occasion. Her Congregational Invitation is posted on our Kiosk. Please make every effort to attend!
An Early Communion Class will begin in January. If you have a child in 2nd - 5th grades this class is ideal for them. Contact me with your questions or for more info.
Please keep in your prayers: Genevieve, Denise, Jerry, Bat Nha Monastery. the unemployed, those without health coverage, the homeless, those longing for a new beginning.
New Year’s Jazz at Peace: Our next Jazz Event is on Sunday, January 3rd at 5 pm. with Richard Howell. This promises to launch your New Year in surprising and unanticipated ways. Marcus Shelby was of course quite sublime this past Sunday.
Thanks to the mystery person who provided the fresh bark ground covering! Looks beautiful.
Get your Honey this Sunday and sweeten life for everyone you know!
If you do not see God in all you will not see God at all!
Happy Advent! Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News Comments Off
November 24, 2009
Friends:
“O God, stir the swirling times, stir the heavens, stir the unexpected, stir the wandering flock, stir the longings of our hearts.”
The Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Service tomorrow night at 7:00 pm will be a beautiful evening of prayer, music, reflection and gratitude. If you are in town I hope you participate and will freely welcome all of our interfaith guests and friends. A Reception follows so if you wish to bring snacks or dessert goodies they will be appreciated. Charlene McPherson will gladly accept your assistance.
Congratulations to April Miletich and Matt Rasmussen on their wedding this past Saturday. What a joyous occasion for both families and all their friends.
Ilah Martin and Gabriella Maneira held their own during their Baptisms this last Sunday too. What a blessing they are to all of us.
This Sunday is the 1st Sunday of Advent and the new Church Year. In honor of this great occasion, the texts for the day and lingering Thanksgiving feasting memories, we will Stir Up a Cake to anticipate the Spirit stirring up our lives during Advent. You won’t want to miss this delightful worship celebration.
Before and after worship Deacon Charlene McPherson has made all the preparations for you to make an Advent Wreath with your family. Enjoy this great tradition!
Please keep in your prayers: Denise, Genevieve, Jerry, friends at Kista Congregation, the unemployed, our partners in Laurel Galan and Venda, South Africa, the hungry, the least of our brothers and sisters, and the Laversin Family whose mother Elsie Mae’s Memorial Service was held at Peace on Monday.
Blessed Thanksgiving, Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News No Comments »
November 20, 2009
Friends:
Jesus was trying to open the eyes of his contemporaries to see the world differently, to see it as it really is — right side up — and above all, to see God as our loving and merciful Abba. To see the truth of things as they really are, to see the truth of ourselves as loved is what makes you free, healed, whole and happy. - Albert Nolan
This Sunday we will celebrate the conclusion of the Church Year - Christ the Vulnerable Sunday. We will celebrate two baptisms with the Martin and Maneira families. Pledge Cards can be brought to worship or mailed to the Church Office as we complete our Stewarding Season.
Congratulations to April Miletich and Matt Rasmussen who will be married this Saturday! What joy for both families. Endless blessings on your life together!
“Job, Jobs and Joy” Our favorite Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Celebration happens on Wednesday, November 25th at 7:00 pm at Peace. In the midst of difficult and uneven times it is important to gather with friends for support, encouragement and prayer. Gifted musicians Dallas Smith and Susan Mazer will create a dynamic evening worship with us through harp, flute, sax, clarinet. It will soothe your soul. Please invite your friends. Bring canned goods for the Food Bank and a contribution for Shelter, Inc. Our gratefulness will be nourished by prayers and acts of compassion. A Reception follows - Charlene McPherson has volunteered to coordinate this. Who can assist her???
Green Pathways Out of Poverty: Core Values & Critical Issues for our Times:
Sunday, November 22, 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Peace
Come to this event cosponsored by the East Bay Jewish Community Relations Council and the Interfaith Council to hear Michele McGeoy speak about Solar Richmond, an organization that has successfully lifted people out of poverty. The event is free of charge and will include a light buffet. RSVP by November 18 to Myrna David at myrna@jfed.org or 510-318-6417.
Mmmmmmmmmmmmm……….meditation……dark, still, candle lit, quiet centering, awareness-open, friends breathing peace…… and you. Thursdays in the sanctuary from 5:45 - 6:30.
You are invited to The Gingerbread House Decorating Party on Saturday, December 5 from 10 - Noon. This annual event is for children (ages 3 through 5th grade) and their parents. There are 35 houses available and only 10 remain available. Be sure to sign up as soon as possible…as in NOW at Peace on Sunday or send Pr. Anita an email at: anita@peacejourney.org. You won’t find a better family Christmas Party anywhere! Be sure to include the number of children and adults who will be attending. (Anita asks that all those attending make plans now to stay for the entire two hours.)
After discussion with the Church Council it was decided to postpone the Christmas Tea for the women of Peace until the Spring Time, probably around Mother’s Day. Heidi Hanzo appreciates your patience and promises you a wonderful occasion then.
Advent Wreath Making will be offered to you before and after worship on November 29th, which is the first Sunday of Advent.
Are you hungering for a deeper spiritual exploration: maturing experiences of reflection, prayer and conversation? The Catechumenate program may fit your need. Running from Advent through Easter this ancient teaching/prayer practise will lead you to a more profound experience of your faith. Talk with me if you are interested. You do not have to be a spiritual genius to begin!
Enjoy This! The Central California Band Review is held once a year in Merced for Marching Bands, Drill Teams, Jazz Bands and Jazz Ensembles. Dozens of schools participate in this all day event. Each group is judged on a wide range of categories using a point system, and awards are given to the top performing groups. Also, a special award is given to the outstanding soloist from all the jazz groups. This year the judges really liked Alexei’s guitar solo on a Latin jazz number. Tthe judges panel said, ” Alexei’s solo had very good lines and changes, not just your usual chord comping from a guitarist.” He received a trophy for his solo performance during the final awards ceremony. Way to go, Alexi!
The SRVHS has a winterconcert on December 8. The high school jazz groups will give the same performances as the Merced event, including Alexei’s solo. Everyone is invited. It starts at 7:00 p.m.
Blessings, Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News No Comments »
November 13, 2009
Friends:
Wasn’t our Show or No Spaghetti Dinner marvelous! Such a blessing that we have a young family with a baby who loves to cook scrumptious meals for our congregation! And the fudge and brownies - made by a true Chocolatier - were exquisite! Anika and Brielle were fantastic hosts. Except for Bev Harms’ excessive comments, the mini-journey through Israel was appreciated too. (Couldn’t have happened without tech-wizard Jan Johansson.) The event raised over $800 for Peace. Our gratitude to Raddi, Susanna and Jasper for this wonderful evening.
Your Stewarding Pledges may be presented at worship this Sunday.
Youth and Family (Yo/Fam): On November 15 all the adults of Peace who want to encourage Yo/Fam ministry are invited to meet with Deacon Christine Johansson after worship for a half hour conversation. The Junior High Group also meets on November 15 with Ceil McCloy.
The final discussion/reflection on The Shack will happen after worship this Sunday at 11:30 with Deacon Gil Jardine.
Our Partnership Ministry continues and concludes the Nicaraguan Mercado (benefiting Lutheran World Relief and our Partnership Ministry) on November 15th.
The Beads for Life will also be made available by Pr. Anita for the final time this Sunday. The Ugandan women whose skills have created these beads in order to sustain their families, friends and community living with AIDS/HIV, thank you for your support.
Core Values/Critical Issues: Green Pathways Out of Poverty
Sunday, November 22, 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Peace.
Come to this event cosponsored by the East Bay Jewish Community Relations Council and the Interfaith Council to hear Michele McGeoy speak about Solar Richmond, an organization that has successfully lifted people out of poverty. The event is free of charge and will include a light buffet. RSVP by November 18 to Myrna David at myrna@jfed.org or 510-318-6417.
“Job, Jobs and Joy” Please join the Interfaith Community for our treasured Annual Thanksgiving Eve Celebration on Wednesday, November 25th at 7:00 pm at Peace Lutheran Church. In the midst of difficult and uneven times it has become even more important to gather with friends for support, encouragement and prayer. Gifted musicians Dallas and Susan Mazer will create a dynamic evening worship with us through harp, flute, sax, clarinet and more. It will soothe your soul. Join us - with canned goods for the Food Bank and in support of Shelter, Inc. Our gratefulness will be nourished by prayers and acts of compassion. A Reception follows - Charlene McPherson will coordinate it. Who can assist her?
The Women’s Group met this week and will meet again on Wednesday, December 9.
A Christmas Tea will be held in honor of the Women at Peace on Tuesday, December 8 in the early evening. Heidi Hanzo will share details with you this Sunday. You will have the option to invite a whole table of friends and create the Tea Table of your Dreams with friends beyond Peace as well.
Please keep in your prayers: Nadia Maghami on her baptism; Genevieve who is recovering from a liver transplant; Denise recovering from surgery; Roy, Georgia, Jerry Slater; those with addictions; the unemployed; those living with mental illnesses.
The Catechumenate: Interested in nurturing your faith through an Adult Untensive program? This ancient teaching practise of the church may be just right for you. Contact me if you are curious.
Don’t Miss:
Abigail Vass (Pastor Elizabeth’s 15-year-old daughter) will appear in Las Positas College’s upcoming production of The School for Scandal, the 18th-century classic comedy of wit and (very bad) manners, set in contemporary times. Playing the role of Maria, the young heiress and main romantic interest, Abigail is earning college credit for her work in the production. Performances are November 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 8 p.m. and November 22 at 2 p.m. For advance reservations, call (925) 424-1812.
And don’t let anyone kid you that the housing market is stagnant because the houses in Gingerbread Village are going fast! There’s still a cul-de-sac or two of homes left for children to decorate on Saturday, December 5 from 10:00-12:00 p.m. so sign up on Sunday or by emailing Anita at anita@peacejourney.org. (Please remember that at least one adult is to attend with children and all who attend are asked to remain for the two hour period.)
Always remember a day without sunshine is like…………..night.
Blessings, Pr. Steve
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News 1 Comment »
November 5, 2009
Jazz at Peace continues on the second Sunday night of every month beginning at 5:00 p.m. with a reception following. You do not want to miss even one of these great evenings of jazz. Not one.
2009
- November 8 - Fred Randolph Quintet - immediate connection
- December 13 - Marcus Shelby Quartet - the master
2010
- *January 3 - RHQ - Richard Howell’s Quintet—sax, harp, piano, bass & percussion and vocal - spiritual AND risky
- February 14 - Kat Parra and her Quartet - sephardic jazz
- March 14 - Dmitri Matheny Trio - mellow flow
- April 11 - Paul Scheffert Trio - heart’s delight
- May 9 - Gerry Grosz Jazz Kitchen - improv heaven
- June 13 - Anton Schwartz Quartet - soul core
* Jazz at Peace with Richard Howell’s Quintet is scheduled for the first Sunday of the month.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Music Comments Off
November 3, 2009
Friends:
We are no less if we lead an obscure life unknown to the world. We are no more if we are famous, if our names are in headlines or on TV. Our true existence lies in being known by God who is love; whose “knowing” loves us into Beloved Daughters and Sons. This is why St. Francis so often repeated: ‘I am who I am before God.’ Ernesto Cardenal
Our All Saints celebration will continue to reverberate within our hearts for quite some time. The Shofar blowing of Dr. Warren Gould was profound (if you would like a copy of the background notes he shared they’ll be available this Sunday); the Shema text and chant from Deuteronomy is always moving; the Prayer Shawls express such love (our thanks to Lois McGee and Pr. Margareta for the Prayer Shawl Ministry); Jeanie and Sue created beautiful music; and the next time you need comfort, come to Communion holding the hand of friend as Daniel and Natalie showed us!
This Sunday our Partnership Committee will share a Temple Talk about our Partnership and present the finest Nicaraguan Mercado (”market”) you’ve seen all year! The Mercado will be available on November 8 and 15th and will benefit Lutheran World Relief and our Partnership Ministry. Do all your shopping at Peace and make the world a better place.
The Beads for Life are available from Pr. Anita on the next two Sundays during November. Thank you for supporting these Ugandan women whose lives have been compromised by AIDS. Honey from the Monastery can also be yours. Keep the monks praying!
Kids Care begins this Sunday! After Children’s Time if the younger ones need time together and the parents would like to focus on the homily, Bob Winter will take the children to the Nursery. They will return for Communion. We are hoping at least 8 adults will participate in being with the children so this important responsibility can rotate gracefully. Please notify Bob if you are willing to assist.
Youth and Family (Yo/Fam) will meet with teens and parents after worship on November 8 to explore possibilities and activities for this year. On November 15 all the adults of Peace who want to encourage Yo/Fam ministry are invited to meet with Deacon Christine Johansson after worship. for a half hour conversation. The Junior High Group also meets on November 15 with Ceil McCloy.
The NATS Recital was indeed a beautiful concert - refreshing for the ear, heart and soul. Elisabeth Pfeiffer sang wonderfully.
The Shack Book Discussion continues after worship on November 15th with Deacon Gil Jardine.
The Debt Retirement Committee raised over $ 2,335 this past Sunday! December 15th is our deadline.
It is Finally Here - (and Jasper made his first Announcment at church): Our ‘Show or No Spaghetti Dinner’ is on Saturday, November 7 at 6:00 PM. Spaghetti, salad, garlic bread and Susanna’s famous brownies for those that choose to show, or a free night to do with as you wish for the no shows. $20 per adult, $15 per child 12 and under (4 and under are free). Pr. Steve and Bev will share highlights from their journey to Israel during dessert. Contact Raddi El Mogazi after church or by email (raddi1@yahoo.com) - by Friday - to buy your ticket and reserve your place. Sign up your friends and bring a bottle of your favorite wine.
Stewarding Sunday will be November 15th. You are asked to submit your Pledge Cards on or before that day.
The Broadway Chorus sings The Great American Songbook at the Amador Theater in Pleasanton on November 6 and 7 (at 8 pm) and 8th (at 2 pm),. Please speak with Martha Mantei about tickets and Discount Cards!
Jazz at Peace is this Sunday at 5 pm with bassist Fred Randolph and his Quintet. Make your heart happy!
We have 3 Important Upcoming Dates for your Calendar:
- Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Service, 7:00 pm at Peace: Job and Jobs - hear the incredible Healing Music of Susan and Dallas Mazer (harp and woodwinds). Invite friends.
- The Gingerbread House Decorating Party is on Saturday, December 5 from 10 - Noon. This annual event is for children (ages 3 through 5th grade) and their parents. There are 35 houses available and 7 have already been claimed so be sure to sign up as soon as possible. Sign up at church on Sundays or send Anita an email to anita@peacejourney.org. Be sure to include the number of children and the number of adults that will be attending. (Anita asks that all those attending make plans now to stay for the entire two hours.)
- A Christmas Tea will be held in honor of the Women at Peace on Tuesday, December 8 in the early evening. Please reserve the date now. Further details to come.
The Women of Peace will meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. The next meeting is at Peace on November 11 from10 to Noon. All the women of Peace are invited.
Core Values/Critical Issues: Green Pathways Out of Poverty
Sunday, November 22, 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Peace.
Come to this event cosponsored by the East Bay Jewish Community Relations Council and the Interfaith Council to hear Michele McGeoy speak about Solar Richmond, an organization that has successfully lifted people out of poverty. The event is free of charge and will include a light buffet. RSVP by November 18 to Myrna David at myrna@jfed.org or 510-318-6417.
I had the opportunity to share Communion with Ki Altemus last week. She sends her love and greetings to all of her friends at Peace.
During these next few weeks we will get to celebrate 4 Baptisms!
“In God we are created, in Christ we die, in the Holy Spirit we are resurrected!”
Blessings, Pr. Steve
Late Breaking News Headline!
Abigail Vass (Pastor Elizabeth’s 15-year-old daughter) will appear in Las Positas College’s upcoming production of The School for Scandal, the 18th-century classic comedy of wit and (very bad) manners, set in contemporary times. Playing the role of Maria, the young heiress and main romantic interest, Abigail is earning college credit for her work in the production. Performances are November 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 8 p.m. and November 22 at 2 p.m. For advance reservations, call (925) 424-1812.
.
.
.
.
.
.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Posted in Good News Comments Off
