Our congregations

Information gleaned from throughout the synod, for keeping up

Message is loud and clear: Resurrection Lutheran Church of Tacoma recently started a "Noisy Offering" that demonstrates the joy and giving loud and clear. Each Sunday, the children collects coins from worshipers in glass or metal jars, with much clanging and jangling. In the past two months, the young people have collected almost $300 (with matching gift, too) to help buy animals through the ELCA Good Gifts program. This has become a fun and meaningful project for our little ones. — Allison Ramsey

110th anniversary: St. Paul of Vancouver celebrated its 110th anniversary Dec. 15 and 16 in part with a luncheon at the Red Lion at the Quay. Some 100 people celebrated. The 100th anniversary task force included Geri Hiller, Lorraine Anderson, Veronna Sjothun, Marlene Janneck, Edie Cotton and Steve Friebel. St. Paul, by the way, has started a second, more informal worship service at 4 p.m. on Sundays, with the hope of appealing to new populations.

Winter lock-in: Vancouver Lutheran churches were planning a Winter Lock-in for youth Feb. 1 and 2 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Vancouver. Some 70 middle-school youth are going to take part, diving into God's word and having lots of fun.

Teen center fundraiser: March 11 is the date for the annual fundraiser to support the RockSolid Community Teen center at Bethel Lutheran Church of Brush Prairie. More information about the "Auction on the Rock" is at www.rocksolid-teen.com.