Electronics trove available at Spanaway Lutheran

Spanaway Lutheran Church has sound and light components free for the taking to any congregation in need.  If you are interested, contact the Rev. John Schier-Hanson at (253) 531-7000.

The items and quantities are as follows:

MR7 7 channel-mixing board (1)
Tapco seventy-two 12 sound board (1)
NEI Model 2712 1/3 octave graphic equalizer (1)
Fostex Patchbay model 3010 (1)
McGowan mModel 103 10-watt amplifier (1)
Radio Shack PA amplifier MPA - 40 (20 watt) (1)
Audio Technica ATW R10 Diversity wireless receivers (2)
ETA 1710 model 1251 dimmer packs with 1,000 watts per channel (2)
Audioarts Engineering model 1500 Tuneable notch filter - feedback processor (1)

Harvey banks her birthday

GRAYLAND —Her son suggested she mark her 90th birthday by skydiving in Florida, and Elaine Harvey, longtime member of Twin Harbors Lutheran Church, gave that some serious thought. But in the end, she settled on a celebration less terrifying and more meaningful to this Grays Harbor County community, where unemployment remains at 11.4 percent, among the very highest in the state.

Harvey instead threw a big party for herself at the local grange hall, inviting church and community members and asking them to bring donations of nonperishable food items or money for the South Beach Food Bank in nearby Westport.

The response was overwhelming. Donations from more than 100 willing guests resulted in $1,200 in cash and checks and a pickup truck load of food for the hungry and unemployed in this Pacific coastal town. 

Skydiving? Maybe next year.

— From Merri Erickson, president, Twin Harbors Lutheran church

A Christmas message from Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson

This year the Christmas story is inseparable from our deep sorrow for the children of Newtown, all who died and all who mourn. We can make no sense of such violence, so we cry out for mercy. And God hears our pleas.

God responds with words of promise saying, "I am with you. I am with you in Jesus, the child lying in a manger. I am with you in Jesus who has borne your grief. I am with you in Jesus on the cross and risen from the dead."

God's promise is that nothing in all creation will separate you from God's love in Jesus. So amid the unspeakable, we can join the angel choir singing, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace." Because our hope is in Christ, we can rejoice in the wonder of Jesus' birth.

I wish you a blessed Christmas.


Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Coming up in the January Moments for Mission

Readers,

Last Sunday, I worshiped with the Rev. Andy Willis and the people of St. Christopher's Community Church of Steamboat Island near Olympia. Pictured is Willis, wife Grete and son Trygve Benjamin Willis, who at 6 months already has two teeth.

In January, the synod newsletter Moments for Mission continues its series featuring its eight new worshiping groups. I'll look at the two federated Lutheran/Episcopal church starts, St. Christopher's being one and Faith Community Church of Kingston being the other.

We'll also have the first of three pieces about the upcoming bishop-election process. I met with the Rev. Nina Body of Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Tacoma on Sunday, as well. She laid out for me the first steps of the process, which she is leading.

Lastly, we'll look at The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd's 20th anniversary of its after-school tutoring program.

Contact me if you want to receive the newsletter but are not.

Rachel Pritchett, communicator
rachelpritchett@msn.com
206-498-0920

Finally, a long-awaited wedding takes place in Namibia

Readers,

Ezron Kapolo, minister of finance for the Western Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Namibia (ELCIN), was married on Saturday. Several formal receptions lasting two days followed the wedding. That means they should be finishing up celebrating around now.

In 2010 when I accompanied Bishop Robert D. Hofstad on a visit to ELCIN, our companion synod, Kapolo told me that he had wanted to marry this beautiful young woman for a long time. Only now it has it come true for him. I'm not exactly sure why he had to wait so many years, but I'm guessing it was so that he could get enough money together to support a wife and family.

Kapolo and I communicate regularly, and I received a wedding invitation. I couldn't really justify going half way around the world for a wedding, although I certainly wanted to. I made him promise to send me more photos, and I'll post them here when I get them, so we can all see what a wedding in Namibia looks like.

Rachel Pritchett, communicator

Realizing 'what is really precious' this Advent

Dear Friends,

I know most of you don't hear from us too often, so we wanted to just connect with you during this holy season to share a few photos from our recent "Sankta Lucia "Child of Light" Festival" at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church on Dec. 13.  Our girls Megan and Alyson along with about 17 of their friends joined with them to observe this special festival of carol singing, story telling, pagentry, candles, children and luciabullar (special saffron buns eaten on Lucia Day).  There is a special glow about these children and that night that I wanted to share with you in hopes to brighten your holiday.  In light of the recent shootings, we are all counting our own blessings and realizing what is really precious to us in this world.
Please go to this link to look at the album:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151299982307937.493101.374559357936&type=1&l=0032e7339d

God Jul,

Ron and Carol McClung
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
360-620-2365
PO Box 1324, Stevenson, WA 98648
www.shepherdofthehills.info

Communitywide Christmas concert tomorrow

 

Poulsbo First Lutheran Church hosts a special communitywide music festival from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, at the church's Christian Center. It's free, but bring food for Fishline and toys, too, for Fishline.

This will be a drop-in concert for most, so from start to finish, here's the lineup.

Cantata by First's Cathedral Choir
Splash Singers
Bethany Brass
Splash Singers
Poulso Elementary School Chorus
North Kitsap High School Northern Lights
Peace Lutheran School (Bremerton) Bell Choir and Chorus
Liberty Bells
North Kitsap High School Jazz Choir

This is all part of First's strengthened outreach to the community, begun by a very successful block party late last summer.

— RP

Wishing you a Blessed Advent and Christmas

 

Your synod staff wish you and yours

A Blessed Advent and Christmas

           Don Fossum, Bishop Rob Hofstad, Ron Hoyum, Allison Ramsey,

Valinda Morse, Melanie Wallschlaeger and Rachel Pritchett

Leaders eye new direction as after-school program turns 20

 

By Rachel Pritchett, communicator

OLYMPIA — All agree: The After-School Tutoring Program at The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd has changed many of the lives of the middle-school students it serves, as well as the volunteers who help run it.

So when the program turned 20, dozens from the large, suburban church turned out on Dec. 2 to celebrate, including Devin Hustoft, who needed and received tutoring when he was a sixth, seventh and eighth grader. Today, when he isn't acing advanced-placement classes in high school, he's helping the younger students who gather twice a week at Good Shepherd to do their homework.

"I'm trying to give back by becoming a tutor myself," Hustoft said.

Director Jennifer Meyer said she found unexpected fulfillment on the job. 

"This program has been such a blessing in my life," she said.

Longtime ASTP volunteer Dotty Fehring said, "Being with you people keeps me young. It is encouraging to be able to channel their energy in positive directions, and see them gain confidence in the ability to succeed in school and life."

Many were touched during the celebration when a video message from the program's first director, Barbara Robertson, was aired. Robertson is a missionary in Tanzania.

"Middle school is a funny time of your life when you're struggling as an adult, but not really," she said. "For myself, it brought me into a community of faith."

The initiative was begun two decades ago by Bishop Robert D. Hofstad, then a pastor at Good Shepherd and others after asking the community about needs of young people that weren't being met. ASTP quickly grew, with congregation members, parents and teachers volunteering not just with tutoring, but also as van drivers, activity helpers and snack-preparers.

The program currently serves about 18 young people.

Meyer and Bishop Hofstad hinted ASTP may be close to having run its course. Meyer said leaders are looking at  switching the focus to high-schoolers. 

Hofstad challenged the group to again look to the community, just as it did 20 years ago, "and ask what else is needed." 

Pictured top and below: 

Bishop robert D. Hofstad, left, joins leaders of the After-School Tutoring Program at The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd of Olympia during a 20th-anniversary celebration Dec. 2. ASTP Director Jennifer Meyer is at center with white collar.

Meyer and Devin Hustoft, once an attendee and now a tutor

Clampdown cutting ranks of worshipers at prison congregation

To help spread the word about the synod’s eight new mission starts, Moments for Mission in the coming months will feature articles about each of them. This issue looks at Living Stones Prison Congregation. A look at the synod’s two new federated Lutheran/Episcopal groups comes in January. Contributions through 1,000 Mission Friends help support the new starts. Contact the synod office to help. — Editor

By Rachel Pritchett, communicator
 

SHELTON — It’s been less than a year since Byron Scherf strangled officer Jamye Biendl in the chapel in the Washington State Reformatory in Monroe.

 In that short time, daily life for every prisoner in the state Department of Corrections has changed inexorably. Moving around inside is tougher than ever.

                                             

 Getting to worship at Living Stones Prison Congregation at Shelton has become extraordinarily difficult. The Rev. Eric Wangen-Hoch used to have a hundred inmates for Saturday-evening services since he began six years ago.

                                             

 It’s down to 20.

                                              

The men now must sign up far in advance if they want to go somewhere in the prison. If they end up not going, they get penalized. They might lose “good points,” or not be allowed out of their cell, or even put in “the hole,” solitary confinement.

“The guys don’t want to put themselves into position to get more infractions,” Wangen-Hoch said. “The prison is trying to mitigate every last opportunity of risk.”

Meanwhile, Wangen-Hoch’s full-time position has been cut to three-quarters time, due to shrunken synod finances.

The clampdown won’t last forever, Wangen-Hoch predicted, and Living Stones, one of a dozen Lutheran prison ministries across the country, will survive. 

Synod congregational teams continue to support men exiting from the prison system. A new effort to collect street clothes for the men soon will take place. 

Lutheran Church of Christ the King of Sumner, First Lutheran Community Church of Port Orchard and Family of God Lutheran Church of Bremerton are among many active supporters.

Wangen-Hoch and others are putting together a program where the men build connection with their children by regularly reading to them.

Wangen-Hoch recently looked back on the men’s stories. There’ve been the defeats, when men return to lives of drugs and violence after exiting. There’ve been victories, when the gospel they heard at Living Stones acted on them later on the outside.

“I’ve actually been able to sit back amazed and see that the gospel really changes people. It’s not just something you learn in seminary,” he said.

Pictured: Rev. Eric Wangen-Hoch

All Saints’ at 50: Remembrance, rejoicing and rededication

 

 

By Ed Englund of All Saints’ Lutheran Church 

AUBURN — The year 1962 will be remembered in our nation’s history for some major events. Most notably perhaps was the Cuban Missile Crisis, bringing us to the brink of war. For Washington state folks, no one will forget the Seattle World’s Fair and the Space Needle, which for 50 years has served as the emblem of the Seattle skyline. And then there was the devastating Columbus Day Storm that struck the Pacific Northwest with 170 mph winds resulting in 46 deaths and major damage.

But 1962 was also the year that a handful of dedicated Lutherans and an inspired young pastor fulfilled their dreams for a new place of worship. All Saints’ Lutheran Church was born. In the past five decades, the church has emerged from its humble beginnings to become a major institution, standing majestically at its prominent location off Interstate 5 at the Exit 147 off-ramp. 

It originally was in a community grange hall. Old-timers nostalgically remember the old hall, which has long since been removed and replaced with a Walgreens. In 1966, the church home moved to a new-but-modest sanctuary built on the present site. Since that time there have been major additions, culminating in its present contemporary sanctuary, dedicated in 1993. 

Three major ceremonies are marking this 50-year milestone. First, was a “remembrance” on Oct. 6. It was an emotionally filled reunion of past and present members with nearly all former pastors on hand for a special program and luncheon. Retired Rev. Elvin Bjork, All Saints’ founding pastor, was among those present. A young minister in 1962, Pastor Bjork spoke of his door-to-door campaign seeking interested Christians to come join this exciting new adventure. During the remembrance event, all pastors told of fond memories from their respective eras. Some charter members were also were on hand, including several who are still active in the church.

The second event was a “rejoicing,” which took place on Reformation Sunday, Oct. 28. Bishop Robert D. Hofstad was the honored guest and delivered an uplifting sermon. Afterward, a German potluck was provided in honor of Martin Luther.

Finally, on Dec. 2, the church celebrated a “rededication.” In addition to being the first Sunday of Advent, is was exactly on that day 50 years ago that All Saints’ was officially commissioned under a charter of the Lutheran Church of America. The Rev. Jan Otto led, followed by a social gathering with refreshments.

Pictured top to bottom: The original grange, and the present inside and outside of All Saints' Lutheran Church of Auburn, turning 50

Upcoming events

 

St. Paul nearing 110 years: St. Paul Lutheran Church of Vancouver celebrates 110 years of existence this month. Lots of events are planned, but the main ones take place at 1 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Red Lion Hotel at the Quay in Vancouver, and at worship services Dec. 16. Worship times are 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.  To learn more, contact the church at 360-693-3531. 

Byberg Preaching Workshop mid-January in Oregon: The Rev. Dr. Terence Fretheim of Luther Seminary will be the presenter at the 2013 Byberg Preaching Workshop, to take place Jan. 14 to 16 at Cannon Beach, Ore. Fretheim will address “Preaching and the God of the Old Testament.” Joining him will be the Rev. Rick Jaech of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church of Vancouver, Wash., who will talk on “Preaching in a Context of Conflict.” For more information, visit www.bybergpreaching.org.

Bishop to share wisdom from 40 years of ministry: In his final Bishop’s Convocation, Robert D. Hofstad will share what he has learned in 40 years of ordained ministry. His pastor-to-pastor remarks will focus on theology, practical information and pastoral care at the event taking place Jan. 22 to 23 at the Seabeck Conference Center. A prayer retreat preceeds the convocation on Jan. 20 to 22 at the same location. To learn more or to register, begin by going to the synod website at www.lutheranssw.org.

Mark your calendars for 2013 synod assembly: The 2013 Synod Assembly in which a new bishop will be elected takes place June 7 and 8 at the Hotel Murano and Bicentennial Pavilion in Tacoma. The theme will be “Always being made new.” Registration begins Jan. 15, and can be done through the synod’s website at www.lutheranssw.org. Details of the assembly will be listed there, as well, along with various deadlines leading up to the assembly. Upcoming Moments for Mission will explain in detail the process of electing a new bishop.

Bulletin board

Trinity Lutheran College seeks scholarship nominations: Do you know someone who would make an exceptional leader in youth or children’s ministry, community social services, camping leadership or pastoral ministry? Trinity Lutheran College’s Children, Youth and Family Studies program is recruiting students through recommendations from church leaders. Referrals to the program serve as nominations for several scholarships worth as much as $56,000. For more, visit www.tlc.edu/next or contact Mark Jackson at 425-249-4721. 

Grinstad to lead walk through Martin Luther territory: The Rev. Dick Grinstad of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of Port Angeles will lead a group to sites in Germany where Martin Luther lived, studied and preached. The journey takes place July 2013. For more, send an inquiry to info@fullscoretravel.com or call 360-457-9306.

Calendar of events

Look to the latest synod newsletter for details of events listed, at www.lutheranssw.org

Dec. 8: Faith Action Network annual awards dinner, Seattle

Dec. 8: Hunger-advocate training, Messiah of Vancouver

Dec. 28: Christmas

Jan. 1: New Year's Day

Jan. 14 to 16: Byberg preaching workshop

Jan. 20 to 22: Prayer Retreat preceding Bishop’s Convocation, Seabeck

Jan. 22 to 23: Bishop’s Convocation, Seabeck

March 16: Southwestern Washington Women of the ELCA Olympic Cluster spring celebration, Silverdale Lutheran, carolfossum@comcast.net

March 31: Easter

April 19 to 21: Southwestern Washington Women of the ELCA spiritual retreat, "Fully Rely on God" with the Rev. Mary Sanders, Dumas Bay Centre, Federal Way, carolfossum@comcast.net

June 7 to 8: Assembly of the Southwestern Washington Synod, Hotel Murano Tacoma

June 21 to 23: Region 1 gathering including Southwestern Washington Women of the ELCA, featuring author Jane Kirkpatrick and Bishop Kay Ward, Heathman Lodge, Vancouver, Wash., carolfossum@comcast.net

July 24 to 27: Triennial Gathering of Women of the ELCA, Charlotte, N.C.

Faith makes the newspaper

Readers,

Faith Community Church made the front page of today's Kitsap Sun. Of course, I recused myself from generating or writing this story, since I'm a member and on the Bishop's Committee of Faith.

Rachel Pritchett, communicator

http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2012/nov/25/nk-congregations-worship-under-same-roof-in/

Celebrate Advent through the Psalms

All are invited to St. Andrew Lutheran Church of Vancouver, where "Psalmfest: Celebrating Advent through the Psalms," takes place from 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 1. Through singing, worship, workshops and presentations, the free event led by the Rev. Chris Nolte and others promises to bring the Psalms alive. Register at office@salcvan.org or 360-892-7160. The church is at 5607 NE Gher Road.

Advent calendars to help students' journey

The University Congregation at Pacific Lutheran University is selling fair trade chocolate Advent calendars to help students offset costs of traveling to Guatemala during the 2013 Holy Week. In Guatemala, the city of Antigua hosts an elaborate and beautiful celebration of Holy Week. Also, students will visit Otto, a student supported by the University Congregation, and his family. The calendars cost $15. Call 253-535-7464 to order.

Pictured: Elaborate artwork made of sawdust and flowers

FAN annual dinner Dec. 8 in Seattle

The 2012 Faith Action Network Annual Awards Dinner takes place Dec. 8 at Temple De Hirsch Sinai, at 1511 East Pike St. in Seattle. Some 400 faith leaders and advocates are expected at the dinner when the Advocating Congregation Award will be announced, along with the Lifetime Justice Award and Interfaith Award. The cost is $85 per person. Reservation information is at fanwa.org.

Trinity Lutheran College seeks scholarship nominations

Do you know someone who would make an exceptional leader in youth or children’s ministry, community social services, camping leadership or pastoral ministry? Trinity Lutheran College’s Children, Youth and Family Studies program is recruiting students through recommendations from church leaders and pastors. Referrals to the program serve as nominations for several scholarships worth as much as $56,000. Students are also eligible to participate in Trinity’s free January Term international travel program. For more information or to submit a referral, visit www.tlc.edu/next or contact Mark Jackson at 425-249-4721. 

Refrain from wasting at Christmastime

By Judy Blevens, synod Earthkeeping Committee
 
Instead of buying paper tablecloths, plates, napkins, etc., buy lasting items in a color that meets the theme of several seasons. Check the calendar and use your imagination.
 
For example, a gold-colored tablecloth can be embellished with candles of different colors along with items from the yard or seasonal foods. Fall colors can be used for decorating purposes from Labor Day through Thanksgiving. Reds continue into Christmas, through Valentine’s Day and again for the Fourth of July.

Gift bags are easier to reuse than gift paper, lessen the need for boxes and the time spent in wrapping them.
 
And when thinking of gifts, think beyond “things.” Financial gifts given in a loved one’s name to charities or nonprofits serving the needy can help provide for their future as well as grow the gift of giving in the recipient’s heart.

Be sure the organizations to which you donate direct the bulk of their donations to those they serve, keeping administration and marketing costs low. Check ratings of charities and nonprofits at www.charitynavigator.org. And for gift ideas that help others, see the ELCA Good Gifts catalog at www.elca.org.

Some PLU Christmas concert tickets remain

While all on-campus performances of Pacific Lutheran University's annual Christmas concert are sold out, tickets remain for performances in Seattle and Portland. The popular holiday concert takes place Monday, Dec. 3, at Benaroya Hall in Seattle. In Portland, it's Tuesday, Dec. 4, at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, call 253-535-7787.

Cleaner, cheaper heat came from forest surrounding church

 

 

By Rachel Pritchett, communicator
 
STEVENSON — The big oil furnace at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church was 60 years old and at the end of its life.

For a replacement, members and friends of this tiny congregation in the Columbia River Gorge thought it might be time to look for a heat source that was carbon-neutral and less expensive.

This Thanksgiving, the community and church celebrated Shepherd of the Hills' new biofuel furnace, now fully installed and delivering heat that "absolutely gets in your bones," according to the Rev. Ron McClung. So far, the cost of running the furnace fueled by woody biomass pellets is about half what it cost to operate the old oil furnace.

Weaning themselves off oil didn't first come without a lot of research last spring by the congregation's furnace committee.

"A lot of them were skeptical," McClung said.

But in the end, it made sense to get heat from a forest products-based source produced by local people just a mile or two away. 

"We're surrounded by a forest here in Skamania County, yet we were using oil fuel," he said.

The Harmon Stoves furnace is about the size of an upright piano. Attached to the side is a small automatic feeder hopper for the pellets, which resemble pet kibbles. A bulk hopper that holds a ton of pellets is just a few feet away. To heat its small sanctuary and fellowship hall, Shepherd of the Hills goes through about a ton of pellets in five weeks.  The unit is so efficient that hardly any smoke comes from the chimney, just at start-up. Maintenance is low.

Members of the furnace committee were able to utilize the existing ductwork. They installed levers so that the heat could be targeted to specific spaces. They plan to move fans on the sanctuary's vaulted ceiling to circulate the warm air better. Among those at Shepherd of the Hills who helped plan and install the furnace were Tom Price, Norm Ward, Dave Hansen, Chuck Sweeney and Erich Geinert.

Total investment: $15,000, funded by a loan the congregation made to itself from its endowment fund. Total operational cost: about half of the $1,550 annually the church was spending to heat with oil.

"It my not seem like a big project to a lot of people, but to us it is huge," McClung said.

The people of Shepherd of the Hills feel good about using the locally produced pellets that help create jobs in a county where unemployment remains at 8.7 percent. And they feel even better about using waste byproducts from the surrounding forest for a fuel that's plentiful, completely clean and renewable. 

"It all came together," McClung concluded.

Pictured top to bottom: 

Norm Ward fine-tunes the gauges of the new furnace (Ron McClung)

Dave Hansen puts finishing touches on exterior modifications for the furnace. (Ron McClung)

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church is in the picturesque Columbia River Gorge. (Ron McClung)

Members opted for he PF100 Harmon Stoves furnace model. (Harmon Stoves)

Presiding bishop's Christmas message to appear in synod blog

Readers,

I will post ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson's Christmas message here when it is sent out in mid-December. — Rachel Pritchett, communicator

Until then, he writes this:

"In an unexpected arrival, God makes a home with us, full of grace and truth. With long-foretold mercy, God comes to save. We rejoice with you in the wonder of Jesus' birth."

Teen suicide forum slated for Brush Prairie, surrounding communities

Nancy Miller of Bethel Lutheran Church of Brush Prairie sends word that the Brush Prairie community as well as surrounding communities soon will gather for an open conversation concerning teen suicide. The conversation will be led by a mental-health specialist, and all are invited. Two area young people have taken their own lives. The conversation will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 28 at the former Lewisville Middle School, 406 NW Sixth Ave., Building C, Room 20.
 

They made a pilgrimage out of a trip

 

By Rachel Pritchett, synod communicator

TACOMA — This year's synod global-mission event took participants from Tanzania to Uruguay, and back home to the Mississippi River and the Appalachian Mountains.

Along the way at the all-day event Nov. 10 at St. Mark's by The Narrows, they learned how to turn a trip into a pilgrimage.

The Rev. Dave Ellingson of Trinity Lutheran College of Everett recounted how he paddled 2,350 miles down the Mississippi this summer in his kayak to the ELCA Extravaganza for youth in New Orleans, La.

He concluded on his blog (paddlepilgrim.blogspot.com) that a pilgrimage never ends. "Like a river, there is always something or someone around the next bend. And even as the river flows into the sea, or in my case the Gulf of Mexico, there is now an ocean of paddling ahead."

Also speaking was Lori Sather, who served as an ELCA global Mission volunteer in Tanzania, where she served as a computer specialist at a medical center in Arusha.

For youth from Mountain View Lutheran Church who performed service in Appalachia this summer, a trip became a pilgrimage from the relationships they made.

ELCA Young Adults in Global Mission Erin Lee and Katy Keyes told how their lives were changed by a year spent in Uruguay. And the Rev. Jan Ruud of St. Mark's gave spiritual hints about getting much more from the trip.

Some 25 people attended the event organized by the synod's Global Missions committee, down from previous years due to the long Veterans Day weekend.

Pictured: Ellingson, top, addresses the global-mission gathering Saturday in Tacoma. Ellingson with the kayak he took going down the Mississippi River. "The hardest part was getting in and out," he said Saturday.

Tomorrow's the day for global-mission event

Readers,

Don't miss the synod's annual event celebrating our efforts in global mission. Taking place tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 10, is "Global Stories: From Trip to Pilgrimage," at St. Mark's by The Narrows Lutheran Church in Tacoma. Look a few stories down for more detail.


Also, congregations interested in sponsoring a missionary now can get a colorful new guide and covenant for ELCA missionary sponsorship. Thet are available at ELCA.org/missionarysponsorship or by calling 800-638-3522, Ext. 2657. I have copies, too. Email me, and I'll shoot you them.

— Rachel Pritchett, synod communicator

Posting: Office manager

Office manager: Peninsula Lutheran Church of Gig Harbor seeks an office manager, at 35 hours a week. Interested persons can submit a résume to Kris Bernard at krisbernard@aol.com. For more information, call Bernard at 253-238-0809.The church is at 6509 38th Ave. NW.

Inclusiveness training takes place in Olympia

By Rick Nelson

Thirty-two persons from Lutheran, Episcopal and other denominations from as far away as Salt Lake City, Utah, gathered at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd on Nov. 3 for a workshop and training to build more inclusive congregations.

Participants learned techniques for telling stories and engaging people in conversations, and they explored issues about relations between congregations and Christians with alternative sexual identities and orientations.

A similar workshop will be held May 4, 2013, at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Vancouver.

Date changed for advocates-against-hunger training

A training session for  congregational hunger advocates tentatively scheduled for Nov. 18 and been rescheduled for Dec. 8 in Vancouver.

Members of the Southwestern Washington Synod Hunger Committee soon will hold training workshops for congregational hunger advocates as part of the committee’s work to implement a synod assembly resolution to increase awareness of and participation in the ELCA’s World Hunger Program.

The committee has been recruiting people to be hunger-program advocates in congregations. Advocates’ activities would include prayer, speaking with pastors and leaders about hunger issues, and using ELCA Hunger Packets to promote hunger related activities in congregations. Hunger committee members will hold training workshops in their regions to review available materials and to present a slide program about the hunger program.

The first training is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 18 in at Messiah Lutheran Church. Another training is being planned for a Pacific County church on Jan. 12, and one will be scheduled in early February in Longview. — Rick Nelson, ernelson@teleport.com

Westphal to host ELCA missionary gathering this coming Sunday

The Rev. Lanny Westphal of the ELCA Global Mission will host a gathering for ELCA missionary sponsors from 3 to 4 p.m. Nov. 4 at Redeemer Lutheran Church of Fircrest. Participants will see how ELCA missionaries are making a difference around the world, and learn of new developments in missionary sponsorship. The church is at 1001 Princeton Avenue.

Discover what turns a trip into a pilgrimage

What turns a trip into a pilgrimage? Presenters will take up that topic at the all-day event “Global Stories: From Trip to Pilgrimage,” taking place Nov. 10 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church by The Narrows in Tacoma.

The Rev. Dave Ellingson, professor of children, youth and family studies at Trinity Lutheran College, will tell about the friendships he made during his 2,350-mile paddle down the Mississippi River last summer to the ELCA Youth Extravaganza in New Orleans.
The Rev. Jan Ruud of St. Mark’s will share what he discovered through pilgrimages in Europe. 

Lyle Morse, chair of the Namibia Task Force, will give a presentation on Namibia. And, youth from Mountain View Lutheran Church of Edgewood will share about the relationships they forged during work in Appalachia in July.

The event, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. also will include worship, time for fellowship and lunch. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The suggested donation of $10 will be split equally between support for the ELCA’s campaign to battle malaria and Namibia. The church is at 6730 North 17th St. No advance registration is necessary. The synod’s Global Mission Committee is sponsor. Contact Ed or Diane Armbrust at dparmbrust@hotmail.com for more information. 

Pictured: The Rev. Dave Ellingson paddles the Mississippi to the ELCA Youth Extravanganza last summer in New Orleans.

Klavano's send latest family member into mission field

By Rachel Pritchett, communicator

PUYALLUP — Bob and Byrna Klavano of Pilgrim Lutheran Church recently said good-bye to Bob's sister, the Rev. Ann Klavano of Wisconson, as she departed for Papua, New Guinea. She will serve as an ELCA missionary at a seminary there for the next four years.

"Living and serving overseas is a special kind of calling, and I think people need a sense of adventure, because it certainly isn't going to be what you're used to," Bob said.

He ought to know; he and Byrna's families have grown missionaries for generations.

Bob sister Ruth, a teacher from the Vancouver, Wash., area, taught in Tanzania and China with the ELCA. She was preparing for work in Namibia when she died in 2008 at age 58. 

Byrna's father, a physician, worked in Tanzania. Her brother, also a doctor, plans to work in Tanzania when he retires.

Bob's grandparents were Methodist missionaries in China when the communists seized power. 

"I think it kind of goes in families. Once it starts, it tends to repeat," Bob said.
Ann, 56, spent a career in library work before receiving seminary training at Wartburg Seminary of Debuque, Iowa. She won't be alone while continuing her library work in New Guinea.

"I think that there's kind of a special bond that develops among overseas missionaries, that they are able to support each other pretty well," Bob said.

The pull of grandchildren are keeping Bob and Byrna grounded in Puyallup. But Bob, who just retired from teaching middle school, serves on the synod's Namibia Task Force.

Fosum voted women's leader

OLYMPIA — Carol Fossum of Puyallup was voted president of the Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s Organization at its annual convention in October at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Also taking office were Vice President Mary Ann Nelson, Secretary Kathy Ifft and Treasurer Shirley Hines. Linnea Glover, Beth Lindell, Janean Moriarty, Kathy Newton, Dorothy Reed, Lori Schmidt and Sue Anna Tucker will be board members.

Some 110 women attended the event with the theme “Sunday People in a Monday World.”
 
Past presidents were honored during the organization’s 25th Anniversary Celebration banquet. They included B. Nancy Lynch, Nancy Jo Armstrong, Kay Ronde, Sue Ferber Goodspeed, Kathy Jacobson, Elaine Rodning, Georganne Robertson and Anita Christian. Offerings collected helped support the Living Stones Prison Congregation of Shelton and others.

Hunger-advocate training to be scheduled

By Rick Nelson, member of the synod's Hunger Committee

 

Members of the Southwestern Washington Synod Hunger Committee soon will hold training workshops for congregational hunger advocates. The training is part of the committee’s work to implement a synod assembly resolution to increase awareness of and participation in the ELCA’s World Hunger Program. 

The committee has been recruiting people to be hunger-program advocates in congregations.

Advocates’ activities would include prayer, speaking with pastors and leaders about hunger issues, and using ELCA Hunger Packets to promote hunger related activities in congregations. 

Hunger committee members will hold training workshops in their regions to review available materials and to present a slide program about the hunger program.

A training is tentatively scheduled from 3 to 5 p.m. Nov. 18 in Vancouver; watch the synod blog for details once the site is confirmed. Another training is being planned for a Pacific County church on Jan. 12, and one will be scheduled in early February in Longview.

In other committee news, members met Sept. 22 to review applications for ELCA Hunger Grants. Eight congregations applied for grants totaling $41,000. The committee evaluated the applications and forwarded the recommendations to the churchwide hunger office, which will make final awards, to be announced next spring.

Media is a power too; use it to advantage

 By Rachel Pritchett, synod communicator 

Years ago before we had security, the Rev. George Larson burst into the Kitsap Sun office, where I was and remain a reporter. The van from Spirit of Life Lutheran Church of Olalla had been stolen. What were we going to do about it?

I don’t remember, but I never forgot Larson. Since then, I’ve watched him grasp the media's attention before leading countless moments of blessings, cross walks, blessings of the animals and responses to tragedies. Each time within hours, Larson and his words of salvation were splashed across Page 1 and on the websites of local media. Once again he had successfully harnessed the power of the media to deliver his message to thousands more than he ever could have reached in
Olalla. Larson is unusually gifted, but you can and must use the media to advance your mission. Here are some first steps: 

It starts with regular notices: Most news outlets reserve Saturdays for church news. They consider submissions about congregational events with larger community connection news. Examples are homeless meals, Advent suppers, the bishop coming, vacation Bible school, Bible-study series, or a pastor’s arrival, installation or retirement. In addition, most outlets have portals on their websites for submitting self-written notices. Both are free.

It continues with relationship: Every news outlet has a journalist who fields the religion news. Find out who that is in your town. Cultivate the relationship and occasionally invite a reporter to your biggest events.

Turn routine church happenings into community events: Rather than having a blessing of the animals in your sanctuary, get a few congregations together, have it in a park, and invite the media. If you’re having a block party, notify the news outlet, tell why you are doing it, and invite a reporter. That goes for church anniversaries, as well as for special services at Christmas and Easter, including the bigger children’s plays.

Be novel: Moments of blessings, animal blessings and 100^th anniversaries invite media attention. But their novelty is wearing out. The Episcopalians for the last couple of years have shown up at transit hubs on Ash Wednesday to spread ashes on the foreheads of commuters. We are lapping it up.

Tell us a people story: Tell the media about people in your congregation who are doing something extraordinary.

Invest in a regularly appearing ad, particularly a web ad, inviting people to worship services: This is especially true in transient, military communities. It beats telepathy every time.

Write a column, guest editorial or letter to the editor: For a long time, the Rev. Kim Latterell of Creator Lutheran Church of Bonney Lake has written a column for his local weekly. I'm guessing more people recognize him by that than anything else. Rotate the task with other clergy or lay people.

There’ve been some wonderful media moments in our synod. For a few days after last year’s shooting of a Mount Rainier ranger, unshaking words from the Rev. Galen Gallimore of Spanaway Lutheran Church were heard by millions coast to coast. We’ll never know how many people received the message for the first time. On a smaller scale several years ago, the Rev. Chris Ode, then of Chinook Lutheran Church, was intent on generating interest in his church, and so sat alongside a highway for an entire summer fielding questions from curious passers-by. He got noticed. Brilliant.

Fight for coverage your congregation deserves and needs to carry out its mission. Contact me if I can help set you up with a plan. — Rachel, 206-498-0920 or rachelpritchett@msn.com