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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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October 29, 2009
Friends:
In love no action is lost that was performed for love’s sake. Love always repays, late or soon; love is always the reward of love. - Hadewijch
This Sunday we celebrate All Saints Day. If you have loved ones who have died during this past year whose names may not be on the church list, please notify the church office. The Time Change is this Sunday. The time will fall back an hour. And this Sunday you will get to hear a Shofar!
Talk about Reforming the Church: The Children’s Choir sang Mozart’s Alleluia for their World Premier and they were magnificent! (Sue Field hasn’t had this much fun since the London Symphony Chorus.) Kaelyn Ricci and Lia Warner learned how sweet the Word of God can be. The Faith and Form Architectural Magazine article on reforming design will be distributed online and as hard copies for those who want it. The presentation of the Mosaic Mandalas in our entrance way is very striking. Thank you to Erich Malvre for your suspension work!
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.
Congratulations to Lori Eichmann who will be ordained at Peace on Saturday, January 16 at 3:00 pm. All the members of Peace are invited to the celebration.
The NATS Recital, hosted by Sue Field and Peace, is this Sunday, November 1 at 3:00 pm. Our own Elisabeth Pfeiffer is among the soloists. Get her autograph now. You will enjoy this beautiful concert.
The Shack book discussion continues after worship this Sunday with Deacon Gil Jardine. The conversation is off to a good start. The final class will be on November 15th (and not the 8th).
The Debt Retirement Committee raised over $5,000 this past Sunday! We will be serving Brats and Beer after worship for the next 4 Sundays.
We will have a ‘Show or No Spaghetti Dinner’ on Saturday, November 7 at 5:00 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) to buy your ticket and reserve your place. Sign up your friends and bring a bottle of your favorite wine.
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!
Our Partnership Ministry presents the Nicaraguan Mercado benefiting Lutheran World Relief and our Partnership Ministry on November 8 and 15th. The Beads for Life will also be made available by Pr. Anita the first three Sundays of November. Honey from the Monastery can also be yours. Keep the monks praying!
Thanks to Ro for the mulching of our Native Garden. It looks beautiful.
The Holy Convergence was exquisite in its simplicity and prayerfulness. All of you would have especially appreciated the chants/songs/prayers of Parisa Lo Bianco, Rachel Mazer and Brian Stein-Webber. Quite a community of prayerful friends has evolved. And some of our oldest members came through with the Reception: thanks to Gen Estenson, Maili Malvre, Gun Johnston and Ro who wants to pretend he’s older!
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. Details to come.
The Women of Peace met today and will continue meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (November 11 and December 9) from 10 to Noon. All the women of Peace are invited. You’ll be hearing more from them.
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.
Beth Chaim invites you to hear Yariv Oppenheimer (an Israeli Peace Activist) as he is interviewed by Rabbi Dan Goldblatt on Wednesday, November 4th at 7:30 pm. I will participate in a follow up panel discussion with him.
Do you ever get the impression that a lot of things are happening at Peace??
The Wing It! performance was outstanding. Ask Jeanie Locklear about the inspiration she provoked with a piece entitled ‘Plumbing”.
Keep one another in prayer, especially the wicked like Charlene McPherson.
Blessings, Pr. Steve
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October 23, 2009
Friends,
The personal journey into God is simultaneously communal and all-embracing. This in part is why peope who have gone fairly deeply into the contemplative path, become open and vital people however they may live this out. In this depthless depth we are caught up in a unity that grounds, affirms and embraces all diversity. - Martin Laird
This Sunday we celebrate the Reformation and the ongoing reforming of the church. To honor the roots of our tradition the Debt Retirement Committee is providing bratwurst, kraut, wheat buns and mustard and serving apple cider for our Hospitality Hour. They may also put a “jug” on the serving table for donations to the Debt Retirement Fund. The smell of brats cooking while singing A Mighty Fortress is not to be missed!
Sunday, Oct 25— Introducing The Shack. Fact or fiction? … what really happened and why?
Three One-Hour Sessions starting Sunday, October 25 in the Youth/Art Room from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. led by Gil Jardine. You will appreciate the amazing messages it conveys about free-will, the human condition, evil, pain suffering, depression, compassion and ultimately redemption. Join us.
And Sunday afternoon at 4:00 pm Peace is once again hosting the Holy Convergence. This is the 5th year for our Annual Interfaith Festival which is sponsored by I-SRV. This year we’ll have a simple Prayer Service with a variety of contributions from the participants followed by a Potluck Reception. Spread the word and join in.
Our thanks again to Tom and Hannah Grossman, the Committee and all who participated in making our St. Francis Animal Blessing Festival such a success. We raised $3,155 and will receive some Matching Funds from Thrivent Financial. And the best part is all of the Community Connections that were made. There were many moments of ministry throughout the afternoon and guests were genuinely moved by the care they and their pets received. Well done!
We will have a ‘Show or No Spaghetti Dinner’ 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). During dessert Bev and Pr. Steve will share highlights from their journey to Israel. Contact Raddi El Mogazi after church or by email (raddi1@yahoo.com) to buy your ticket and reserve your place. Sign up your friends and bring a bottle of your favorite wine.”
Core Values: Critical Issues event on “Fighting Poverty with Faith - Good Jobs, Green Jobs,” has been set for Sunday, November 22. It will still be 5:00 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 3201 Camino Tassajara in Danville, and will include a potluck dinner and speaker and panel discussion. This event is being co-sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council and the Interfaith Council of CCC.
Please keep in your prayers: Diane Slater on the death of her mother Joyce Gibson, Pr. Anita on the death of her mother, Roy Archuleta, Denise, Sue Shimansky, Mohammed, Rich Collins, Genevieve, Corrine, the unemployed and all in need of healing.
Our thanks to the Healing Prayer Team for the wonderful Healing Prayer Service this past Sunday.
Need Meeting connections for friends dealing with substance abuse? AA meets at Peace on Monday evenings, Wednesday afternoons and Thursday mornings; NA (narcotics) meets at Peace on Tuesday evenings; FA (Food Anonymous) meets at Peace on Wednesday evenings.
Congratulations to Margaret Beeler’s father Ted who was named one of the most Influential People in the history of Valparaiso University in Indiana. Valparaiso (a Lutheran University) has consistently been named the best of mid-sized universities in the Midwest. Talk with Margaret for details. Next time Ted worships with us you can congratulate him as well.
Thanks to those who contributed to our special offering to support Bread for the World. We raised the $250 necessary to continue as a Covenant Church of Bread for the World.
One stop shopping: You asked for the best and we will provide it! Starting in November you will have the finest Nicaraguan items available in our Mercado following worship as well as the Beads for Life which Pr. Anita provided last year. And as promised - the flavorful honey from the Monastery will meet your sweetest needs.
Blessings, Pr. Steve
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September 4, 2009
Friends:
At some moment we did answer Yes to Someone or Something and from that hour we were certain that existence is meaningful and that therefore our lives, in self-surrender, have a goal. To say Yes to Life is at one and the same time to say Yes to oneself. Yes - even to that element within one which is most unwilling to let itself be transformed from a temptation into a strength. Dag Hammarskjold
This Saturday from 8:30 - noon we will host a faith based/interfaith Support Group/Workshop for unemployed people. In these difficult times we need encouraging resources. Please invite friends to attend. Our thanks to Joan Michel-Lehman for creating this workshop in response to so many heartfelt needs expressed.
Our St. Francis Animal Blessing and Festival Committee if off to a solid start. Co-Chairs Tom and Hannah Grossman are especially asking for a team of people to coordinate our Silent Auction for the day on October 4. The event will go from Noon - 3:00 pm. Reservations have already been submitted by horses, goats, fish, birds, dogs and cats. We need you to assist with the day, distribute flyers to pet businesses, donate silent auction items and invite friends. Will be a marvelous day!
Gun Johnston will host a Reception for Wise Ones in her home on Wednesday, September 16 from 10 - Noon. All are invited. Your RSVP is helpful.
Please keep Mike Shimansky and Margaret Bender in your prayers.
Founder’s Day at PLTS Seminary hosts Dr. Martin Marty on September 23. The Keynote Address is at 10 am with worship and lunch following. You are invited to register at: www.plts.edu/news.html. A celebration for Seminex’ 35th Anniversary ( the seminary I attended) will follow in the afternoon. Check out the Kiosk for details.
This Sunday our Partnership Committee will lead worship with wonderful tales, images and experiences from their recent journey to Nicaragua. Here are some insights learned while on their trip:
Things I Didn’t Know Before This Trip to Nicaragua
- Grace is good at milking goats; Arlene shows promise. (We have pictures to prove this.)
- Goat milk is dramatically more nutritious than cow milk.
- One woman who lives in Laurel Galan has a goat and people line up to pay a premium for her goat milk.
- Cows cost more and produce less than goats. Cows eat half their weight per day in forage and produce up to 4 liters of milk per week. Goats also eat half their weight per day in forage and also produce up to 4 liters of milk per week.
- Most families in Laurel Galan have cows. These cows were given to them by well-meaning Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO’s) or the Nicaraguan government.
- You cannot buy a goat with the proceeds you would get from selling your free cow.
- Sometimes well-meaning NGO’s and governments hurt more than they help.
What We Have in Common with Our Friends in Nicaragua
- They want their kids to be educated, get good jobs and be better off than they are.
- Within their community there are different levels of affluence.
- They like watching soap operas. The most popular TV show in Nicaragua has a title that translates to With No Breasts There Is No Paradise. (Seriously. There is no way I could make this up!)
- 20% of the community will be engaged in any given project and 80% will watch them be engaged.
- Like us, all of the people in Nicaragua who we met, are staggered by the amount that Little Bobby Winter can eat.
- They enjoy a good game of Tug of War.
- They like clowns.
- The 9-12 year old boys in their community are mischievous and full of energy.
- They are as interested in our lives as we are in theirs.
- They like to play baseball.
- They are inclusive and welcoming of different religions and sexual orientations.
- There are differences in political opinion that are held firmly enough that people don’t discuss those differences.
Bev and I leave for Israel this Sunday where we will travel for two weeks. Please keep us in your prayers.
Below is the Community Letter sent to Laurel Galan which you will appreciate.
Blessings, Pr. Steve
Dear Sisters and Brothers of our Hermanamiento in Laurel Galan,
We greet you with love and fond memories of our time together in July. It was so wonderful to be with you and your families – to pray together, play together, talk and eat together. Thank you so much for your always-loving hospitality!
As you may remember from our final dialogue, we from Peace stated that the most important elements that we wanted to bring back to our church congregation were the following:
We wanted to help the congregation understand how the charity model (though from good intentions) doesn’t work as solidarity means a true partnership where each partner contributes to the well-being of the other. We wanted to share how our brothers and sisters of Laurel Galan have helped us to grow in so many ways – through faith, compassion, understanding of God’s plan for peace and justice, awareness of policies that create injustice and poverty, etc.
We wanted to more fully inform and involve our congregation in our partnership with Laurel Galan and also with AKF.
We wanted our congregation to realize that delegation travel and regular communications were essential to deepening and strengthening our relationship.
Since returning home, all six of us on the delegation have met to plan how to further accomplish these goals. To this end, we have done the following:
On Sunday, August 3rd, we shared some of our experiences with the entire congregation during worship service at Peace. Christy explained about the Farm School and Grace told what Fr. Fernando Cardenal shared with the delegation about his conviction to uphold a promise he made long ago (to fight/help the poor and to uphold justice) and how he has kept his promise to this day. I talked about your secondary school – your commitment to education, the sacrifices you have made to educate both adults and youth, and your pride in accomplishments.
We have made C.D.s and enlarged pictures from our times with you that we are sharing with the congregation. We will also include articles in our church newsletter.
The Partnership Committee is making plans to do the entire worship service on September 6th. It will focus on our Partnership and our experiences with you so that people in our church can get to know our brothers and sisters in Laurel Galan. We will tell you all about this in our next monthly letter.
We are committed to re-energizing our Partnership Program and are inviting many new people to our next Partnership Meeting on September 9th.
Christy writes: “We started a compost pile with the hopes that we can produce good fertilizer/soil and plant some more fruit trees in our yard and have a vegetable garden next spring. We are not “gardeners” and, frankly, while he’s willing to go along with it, my husband, Bob, is wondering what got into me. Additionally, I made Gallo Pinto for dinner last night along with our BBQ’d chicken. My recipe needs work so I’ll keep trying different variations on it. I think I need to use different beans. I used pinto beans and they were too big and red.”
Grace and family already have a compost pile and are doing organic gardening and I have this very high on my “To Do List”. My brother grows earthworms and I plan to do so, too, as we know how important they are to enriching the soil.
We really want to hear how you are doing with your plans. Have you set any priorities? Among other thoughts, you mentioned the need for potable water, a communal house for meetings, greater hopes for education, a bakery, etc. We also are wondering what you thought about the Farm School that Isaura, Aura, and Marvelis visited.
I read in my journal that during our evaluation on our last day together you and we made a commitment to develop our plans, encourage each other to achieve them, and communicate regularly regarding our progress in our plans.
We so look forward to hearing from you!!! Do know that you are always in our thoughts and prayers. May God’s Spirit nourish you with wisdom, courage, and strength as you work toward the fulfillment of your goals.
Much love to each of you and to your families,
Grace, Elisabeth, Christy, Bob, Allison, and Arlene
And also Pastor Steve and all your brothers and sisters of Peace Lutheran Church in Danville, California.
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August 29, 2009
Friends:
It’s not enough to have lived. We should be determined to live for something. May I suggest that it be creating joy for others, sharing what we have for the betterment of humankind, bringing hope to the lost and love to the lonely? Leo Buscaglia
Health Care Dialogue: We will meet again this Sunday right after the service. Mark Miller invites you to join the group who will look at arguments for and against health care reform.
Our thanks and congratulations to Christine Johansson who has agreed to serve as our next Deacon of Youth and Family!
Peace Middle School Youth Group: There will be an informational meeting for kids and parents about the Youth Group on Sunday Sept. 15th right after Church. Ceil McCloy will lead the group and during that meeting we will go over the Middle School Youth committments and also some ideas for the fall. The St. Francis Animal Blessing and Festival on October 4 where we helped last year, is asking for our help this year too. Peace has invested in recycling containers and we have voluntered to take them to the recycling center (and keep the proceeds for the Youth Group!). If there are other Middle School kids (including your friends) that might be interested in joining our Group please pass this information along.
The St. Francis Animal Blessing and Festival Committee meets after worship this Sunday. It’s already a group of 18 people. Others may join us - more involvment will mean more fun. Your ideas are welcomed.
Fr. Carl Gracely’s 100th Birthday will be celebrated at John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek on Thursday August 27th. In addition to Fr. Carl’s birthday this is an affirmation of the very successful Pastoral Care programming that he envisioned and implemented in partnership with our Pastoral Care Services Board, community congregations, medical staff and hospital administration of John Muir Hospital. Our own Chaplain Dwane Michael inherited the mantle and has been serving as the Senior Chaplain at John Muir for the past 20 years. Congratulations Fr. Carl!
Here’s a note from Tom Grossman about an incident on their “family vacation”: We did have an incredible family service experience while backpacking last week - we came to the aid of a horse rider with a serious head injury that eventually required helicopter evacuation. Sarah ended up walking out a couple of middle-school boys in her party who didn’t have any warm clothes; she hiked the trail three times. Caroline helped signal the helicopters and also spoon-fed the patient and her boyfriend who was holding c-spine with both hands for hours. (Editor’s Comment: Rescue efforts by members of Peace may not be as dramatic as this one, but I know they are happening week after week!)
Please keep Margaret Bender and the unemployed in your prayers.
Pr. Anita shared a story about moving from seclusion to transformation this past Sunday. The church at large needs our prayer in this time of transition. We also recognize this day has been a long time coming for many of us. Here is an article about the decision made at the national ELCA convention.
ELCA Assembly Opens Ministry to Partnered Gay and Lesbian Lutherans
MINNEAPOLIS (ELCA) - The 2009 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) voted today to open the ministry of the church to gay and lesbian pastors and other professional workers living in committed relationships.
The action came by a vote of 559-451 at the highest legislative body of the 4.6 million member denomination. Earlier the assembly also approved a resolution committing the church to find ways for congregations that choose to do so to “recognize, support and hold publicly accountable life-long, monogamous, same gender relationships,” though the resolution did not use the word “marriage.”
The actions here change the church’s policy, which previously allowed gays and lesbians into the ordained ministry only if they remained celibate.
Throughout the assembly, which opened Aug. 17, the more than 1,000 voting members have debated issues of human sexuality. On Wednesday they adopted a social statement on the subject as a teaching tool and policy guide for the denomination.
The churchwide assembly of the ELCA is meeting here Aug. 17-23 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. About 2,000 people are participating, including 1,045 ELCA voting members. The theme for the biennial assembly is “God’s work. Our hands.”
Before discussing the thornier issues of same-gender unions in the ordained ministry, the assembly approved, by a vote of 771-230, a resolution committing the church to respect the differences of opinions on the matter and honor the “bound consciences” of those who disagree.
During the hours of discussion, led by ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson, the delegates paused several times each hour for prayer, sometimes as a whole assembly, sometimes in small groups around the tables where the voting members of the assembly sat, debated and cast their votes.
Discussion here proved that matters of sexuality will be contentious throughout the church. A resolution that would have reasserted the church’s current policy drew 344 votes, but failed because it was rejected by 670 of the voting members.
Pastor Richard Mahan of the ELCA West Virginia-Western Maryland Synod was among several speakers contending that the proposed changes are contrary to biblical teaching. “I cannot see how the church that I have known for 40 years can condone what God has condemned,” Mahan said, “Nowhere does it say in scripture that homosexuality and same sex marriage is acceptable of God.”
But others said a greater acceptance of people who are gay and lesbian in the church was consistent with the Bible. Bishop Gary Wollersheim of the ELCA Northern Illinois Synod said, “It’s a matter of justice, a matter of hospitality, it’s what Jesus would have us do.” Wollersheim said he had been strongly influenced by meetings with youth at youth leadership events in his synod, a regional unit of the ELCA.
Some speakers contend that the actions taken here will alienate ELCA members and cause a drop in membership. But Allison Guttu of the ELCA Metropolitan New York Synod said, “I have seen congregations flourish while engaging these issues; I have seen congregations grow recognizing the gifts of gay and lesbian pastors.”
During discussion of resolutions on implementation of the proposals, Bishop Kurt Kusserow of the ELCA Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod asked that the church make clear provision in its policies to recognize the conviction of members who believe that this church cannot call or roster people in a publicly accountable, lifelong, monagamous, same-gender relationship. A resolution that the denomination consider a proposal for how it will exercise flexibility within its existing structure and practices to allow Lutherans in same gender relationship to be approved for professional service in the church. That resolution passed by a vote of 667-307.
Blessings, Pr. Steve
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