Items from our congregations

 

Big gift: Members and friends of Grace of Port Townsend recently donated $5,000 to the Port Townsend Food Bank. The money came from a drive conducted by members, and also from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Pictured: Jane and Konrad Schwencke present a check for $5,000 to Port Townsend Food Bank Manager Shirley Moss, center.

Garden debuts: Just four months after its blessing, 32-foot-square raised beds were built and filled at the community garden at St. Andrew of Vancouver, and growing and  harvesting is underway. The congregation’s youth has been tending the garden, along with the local Girl Scouts and staff from a dentist's office. The produce goes to the local food bank.

Picnic in the park: Members of Spanaway Lutheran celebrated the 50th anniversary of the church with a congregational potluck picnic July 1 at Spanaway Lake Park.

Surprise celebration: Worship had ended as usual on Father’s Day at Redeemer of Fircrest. But instead of heading home, members stayed in the sanctuary to mark Pastor Gary Peterson's 40th anniversary of his ordination. Members gave readings and laid hands on their pastor, who said he was “completely surprised.”