December 2015 Grapevine

The Grapevine
December 2015
Holiday Worship Schedule
December 6, Advent 2
9:00 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. services
Pastor Jana Schofield preaching
December 13, Advent 3
10:00 a.m.
Contemporary format with the worship band
Sunday School Christmas Program
December 20, Advent 4
10:00 a.m.
Traditional service with the choir
Pastor Jana Schofield preaching
December 27, Christmas 1
10:00 a.m.
Service of carols and readings
A monthly newsletter of
Christ Lutheran Church, Ferndale WA
I am the vine, you are the branches. - John 15:5
Potluck
Sunday, December 13
This is the day of the Sunday School Christmas
program. There will be one worship service at
10:00 a.m.; the potluck will be directly after
worship.
All are encouraged to bring a main dish and either
a salad or dessert to share. Please bring your
dishes to the kitchen either before or directly after
worship.
Even if you are not able or forget to bring a dish
you are welcome to join us in the Fellowship hall
for lunch and laughter.
Christmas Eve Worship
Advent Holden Prayer
Around the Cross Worship
Tuesday, December 22, 5:30 p.m.
On the longest night of the year, gather for quiet
prayer in the midst of a busy season. Prayer
Around the Cross from Holden Village is a short
service of darkness, candle lighting, and quiet
singing to acknowledge to God our tears, our
wounds, our grieving, our thanks, and our deep
longing for healing.
The service will be followed by an optional prayer
walk on the labyrinth.
5:00 p.m. Family Service
with Communion and Candle Lighting
The Worship Band will provide the music for
this service which includes free child care for
any child, age infant to five.
9:00 p.m. Candle Lighting Service
with Communion
The choir, organ and a small orchestra provide the music for this service.
No services are planned for Christmas day.
Pastor’s thoughts...
On Feeling Our Feelings
I’m writing this just after preaching two sermons in November on
scripture passages in which the biblical writers or Jesus himself
admonished: “Do not be afraid! Do not worry!”
sadness, and we can feel less exposed
when we let out what is going on inside
us.
And here we are now in Advent awaiting the celebration of Christ’s
birth, when we will hear the same admonition from the angel to the
shepherds:
This month on the longest night of the
year, December 22, at 5:30 p.m. we will
hold a Holden Village Prayer Around the
Cross worship service which will allow
us to deeply connect with God and to
feel what is deeply inside us. The sanctuary will be mostly dark, and we will
gather around a cross in the space
where our choir and band usually sing
and play. During some beautiful, quiet
music we will be invited to light candles
to acknowledge to God our tears, our
wounds, our grieving, our thanks and
our deep longing for healing.
“Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great
joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a
Savior, who is the Messiah.”
Do not be afraid.
Did you know that the Bible
says in 365 places some
variation of “do not be afraid”?
How appropriate that there’s
one “fear not” for each day,
since there’s likely not a day
that goes by when we don’t
fear something, including what
goes on inside ourselves.
Fear is perhaps the most
powerful emotion we have
next to sadness and grief.
Fear causes us to shut down
and shut out anything that
makes us feel vulnerable. We
even fear our own feelings,
so when we feel our feelings
(which God made our human
bodies to do), especially when
they are uncomfortable feelings, we do anything we can
to try to avoid them.
In the lighting of candles we experience
the light of Christ which penetrates our
darkness, calling us to not be afraid.
And if you are struggling at all with feelings of grief, you are welcomed and
encouraged to be a part of the grief
support group starting in January. (See
the information about this group on page
7 of this Grapevine.) When you journey
with others who feel the same feelings
as you, you will undoubtedly feel less
afraid, and therefore, more free.
May you fear not, and may your Advent
and preparation for Christ’s birth be
blessed,
Perhaps that’s why the biblical
writers and Jesus said so
many times, “do not fear”,
since instead of fearing our
feelings, what God made us to
do is feel our feelings.
I think Advent gives us increased permission to feel our
uncomfortable feelings. In
these short and darkened
days, we have more latitude to
curl up and feel our grief and
2
Pastor Jana
Pastor’s thoughts...
Pastor’s post
script...
If you have felt fear regarding
Syrian refugees after the
Paris attacks, I encourage
you to read ELCA Bishop
Elizabeth Eaton’s statement
on refugee resettlement:
www.elca.org/News-andEvents/7797.
Also, check out the graphics
(above and right) about Syrian
refugees from the Lutheran
Immigration and Refugee
Service, and visit
www.lirs.org/syria.
3
We live in Christ, and share His love with all people.
Ferndale Holiday
Giving Store
The Other Bank News
As many of you know, our KFC youth went Trickor-Treating for the Other Bank. Our energetic
group collected 4 dozen bars of soap, 16 large
bottles of laundry detergent, 119 rolls of toilet
paper, 15 rolls of paper towels, and many other
items. It was a bit like early Christmas for our
families. We appreciate anything you like to have
in your kitchen or bathroom. Meanwhile, the
Clothing Bank is receiving wonderful donations of
clothing that goes out the door almost as fast as
the clothing team can sort it. If you want to take
items directly to the Resource Center, it is open
M-F from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You can also
leave items in the bin in the narthex. Many thanks
to all who donate and a special thanks to KFC!
The Ferndale Holiday Giving Store helps homeless and low-income families in the Ferndale
School District at Christmas by distributing donations of new toys and warm clothing to those children who otherwise would have no gifts. Our
“Giving Tree” is in the Narthex with gift suggestion
tags for the different age groups. Please choose a
tag (or two or three) and take it with you when you
are doing your holiday shopping. Each tag lists
several gift suggestions which are provided as a
guide—you may select any item from the list or be
creative if you see something else you think a
child of that age would enjoy. There will also be
envelopes available for financial donations if
shopping isn’t your thing. Volunteers use these
monetary donations to purchase toys and clothing
to fill in the gaps that may be left. All unwrapped
gifts need to be placed under our “Giving Tree” by
Sunday, December 13. Envelopes with monetary
donations should be placed in the offering plate.
Pre-qualified Ferndale School District parents will
be able to “shop” for their children (an article of
clothing and a toy for each child) and wrap the
gifts themselves so they can feel more involved in
the gift-giving experience. We appreciate all your
support as we spread the Christmas love to needy
children here in our community.
Ferndale Community Meal
Thanks again to our generous congregation,
many members of the Ferndale Community are
able to enjoy warm, nutritious meals twice a
month. Our guests are served meals by friendly
volunteers and are treated with respect just as
they would be in a nice restaurant setting. If you
have never experienced the meal, you are always
welcome to attend the meal as a guest so that
you can see how your donations are being used.
The FCM has become a social time for fellowship
among many of our guests. The dates for the
December meals are December 12 and December 19—our annual Christmas dinner featuring
ham donated by Hempler’s. All meals are served
at United Church of Ferndale, 2034 Washington
Street. Serving times for all meals are 10:00 a.m.
to noon. The next designated offering for the FCM
is Sunday, December 13.
Ferndale Food Bank
The Social Concerns Committee would like to
thank our generous congregation for donating
a total of $820.55 for the designated offering for
the Ferndale Food Bank in November. This money will help fill the Thanksgiving and Christmas
baskets for needy families in our area. With the
announcement of future layoffs at Intalco, there
will probably be an increase in users of the Food
Bank. We will continue collecting non-perishable
holiday food items as well as the usual pantry
staples. When you see great deals on foods at
the grocery store, please consider picking up
something extra for those in need. We can work
together to help make the holidays a little better
for our Ferndale citizens.
If you are interested in learning more about how
the FCM Committee operates, please consider
joining us at one of our planning meetings. The
next meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday,
January 5, at United Church of Ferndale. If you
are interested in volunteering at a meal, contact
Joanne Flores at [email protected] or
398-3409.
4
We live in Christ, and share His love with all people.
A Shout of Thanks
to the Stephen
Ministry! - by Karen Ashmore
Thanks to Christ Lutheran
Church Members
As we approach the end of 2015, the Social Concerns Committee would like to thank our awesome
CLC members for their continued generosity for all
the community projects we ask you to support. We
feel so blessed each time we are able to reach out
to the needy in our community. You all are showing “God’s Love” through the work of your hands
and the financial support you have given to the various projects. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
What a blessing to have this wonderful
ministry available at CLC! I was diagnosed with
breast cancer in May and took advantage of the
Stephen Ministry. Being able to pray, in private,
one-on-one, with someone during communion is
a wonderful blessing. Not only was I shown
tremendous compassion, concern and caring,
I was lifted up in prayer and felt truly supported
throughout my journey to health. I chose to be
paired with a minister to "walk with me" during
my treatment. It was an absolute priceless
experience, receiving both emotional and spiritual
support. As a bonus, I feel I have gained a new
friend for life.
Lutherwood Lock-Out
Middle School and High School
January 15-16, 2016; 7:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m.
$25
I encourage my fellow CLC members to take
advantage of this truly wonderful ministry, if you
would like someone to pray with you for any
concern you may have. It made a difference
in my life.
An all-nighter of fun with movies and popcorn in the
Chapel, night games, faith formation, more games,
and finish up with breakfast and a sunrise service
on the waterfront.
Register today at www.camplutherwood.org/retreats/
I am now cancer free and praise God
that my prayers were answered!
Thank you for this ministry. The work that our
Stephen Ministers do IS truly God's love in
action! May you all receive God's blessings for
giving so generously of your time for others.
Advent Poinsettias
Would you like to contribute toward the cost of the
poinsettias which adorn our sanctuary for our
Advent and Christmas celebrations?
Have a wonderful winter, Karen
The plants have been purchased to fill the space
behind the altar. If you would like to give monetarily
what you are able, please use the envelope at the
end of the pew, write flowers on the outside and
place the envelope in the offering plate as it passes
you on Sunday morning.
The next Stephen Ministry prayer station will
be December 27. We are happy to announce
that a new training class for Stephen Ministers will begin in January 2016!
Linda Osgood and Victoria Baum
Crafty Ladies
The “Crafty Ladies” will meet Saturday December
5, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, at the Correll Park Club
House. This is a good time to complete some of
those Christmas gifts and crafts while enjoying
good fellowship. Call Carol Gahm at 312-0267 if
you need directions.
5
We live in Christ, and share His love with all people.
Adult Education
Interfaith Coalition Coat
Drive a Warm Success
"Christmas Alert 2015"
Sunday, December 6
10:00 a.m., Conference Room
As the cool weather finds us reaching for a jacket, we’re reminded that some of our neighbors
are in need of this basic item we take for granted.
This fall, we provided winter coats as well as hats
and scarves to many of our neighbors. We appreciate the generous donations of winter wear from
members of your congregation. Thank you for
bringing some much needed warmth to others
this fall.
All are welcomed at our December 6 adult
education class where you will receive an Advent
meditation guide titled Christmas Alert 2015, as
well as the booklet titled Kairos Palestine—A
Moment of Truth.
From the place where Jesus was born, we will
consider the voices of Palestinian Christians who
ask us to join them in reflection and action this
Christmas season in turning the tide towards real
peace.
It was heartwarming to see parents find good
coats for their children and the old gentleman
with so little proudly don the best wrap he’s had
for years. Several children beamed as they
showed how nice they looked in their new coats
and darling hats. Some sported a scarf that made
them feel extra special.
This will be the only adult education class for the
month of December.
January 10 & 17
Mindfulness and Prayer- Learn how to achieve
deep relaxation to improve your prayer life.
Led by Dave Schlack.
We appreciate your commitment to this program
and are humbled to experience the gratitude in
words or expressions of those who benefit from
your efforts.
Some dates are filled for January through May,
but some dates remain open. We encourage you
to contact a member of the Adult Education
Group (Jan and Dave Schlack, co-chairs) with
ideas for future classes.
Warmly,
Laura Harker,
Executive Director, Interfaith Coalition
The ELCA Grace Gathering
The church directory
August 10-13, 2016
New Orleans, LA
The 500th anniversary of the Reformation is an
opportunity to rejoice in the life-giving, liberating
power of the gospel. As part of the observance,
we invite you to attend the Grace Gathering, in
partnership with the 2016 ELCA Churchwide
Assembly. This will be an opportunity to experience the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) when gathered as the ELCA Churchwide Assembly, prepare for further observances
of the 500th anniversary and reflect on how the
Reformation can continue to guide us today.
A PDF version of the new church photo
directory will be sent in the same email
as the PDF version of this newsletter to
those who receive it.
If you would like a hard copy of the directory
please request one from the church office.
No other copies of the directory will be printed unless specifically requested.
See www.elca.org/en/gracegathering for more
information.
6
We live in Christ, and share His love with all people.
Preschool Thanksgiving
Shop and Give
It is Thanksgiving Eve as I write this article and it is
fitting that feelings of gratitude fill my heart. Gratitude for each of the children enrolled (74), their families, this wonderful space, the staff—LaVonne,
Cheryl, Jenny— and the members of Christ Lutheran Church. Thank you for supporting this ministry
with your prayers, your time and your money; I am
grateful.
133 Prince Ave, Bellingham WA 98226
360-527-2641
Our preschool is participating in Launching
Success' Support Our Schools Shopping Week!
In December two big events happen at the preschool: a field trip to area schools to make gingerbread houses and our Christmas programs for families and friends.
During the week of November 29–December 5
when you shop at Launching Success 10% of all
your purchases will go to our preschool!
This year we will be visiting Mrs. McDougal’s class
at Custer Elementary, Mrs. Saulisbury’s class at Eagle Ridge Elementary and Mrs. Dodd’s class at Cascadia Elementary. This is a great opportunity for our
preschoolers to work with older elementary kids on
a fun and messy project.
Be sure and tell them you are shopping for
Christ Lutheran Preschool when you make your
purchases.
Launching Success offers free gift wrapping so
this is a great way to get that Christmas shopping
done!
Our Christmas programs will be held in the church
sanctuary. Families get to sit in that glorious space
and hear the voices of children celebrate the birth of
Jesus through song.
Invite your family and friends to participate! Help
spread the news to make this a successful event!
Online orders count too so tell your out of town
friends and family. Be sure to tell them to put Christ
Lutheran Preschool in the Special Instructions area
when placing the order.
Lastly there are two upcoming events. 1) A fundraiser for the school through Launching Success story
in Bellingham (133 Prince Ave.) Any purchases
made the week of November 29–December 5, both
in store and online, gives us a 10% cut; just mention
Christ Lutheran Preschool. 2) Artwork will soon be
on display in the Fellowship Hall from the preschool.
We hope that you enjoy the creative work of small
hands.
Launching Success is located off the Guide Meridian, one block north of Bakerview. Turn east just
north of the big carwash, go one block, your destination is on the right.
CLC Preschool Director Liza Okan
Grief Support Group
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon
January 7, 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11
Monday Evening Bible
Conversation
Are you experiencing grief from a recent (or not-sorecent) death of a loved one? You are welcome to
join a free and confidential six-week grief support
group facilitated by Deaconess April Boyden in the
CLC sanctuary. Please sign up with Sam in the
church office ([email protected] or 3841422). If Thursday mornings do not work for you,
please let the office know, as the dates and times
may be flexible.
Join the conversation Monday December 7, at the
home of Gary and Carolyn Jonson, 5997 Malloy Ave,
Ferndale 7:00–8:30 p.m.
As we move through the Advent season we begin a
new topic.
7
The Vision of the KFC KIDS at CLC
To build disciples of strong faith to go out together in the world
and do God’s work.
Kids For Christ
The ABCs of Sunday School
During November the Kids had youth group nearly
every Sunday evening including two middle school
nights, one high school night, and a joint dinner at
the Harvest Dinner. We spent the month talking
about peer pressure and bullying; the high schoolers spent some time talking about cyber bullying,
specifically.
The school year is well underway and these kids
are amazing! Each year we have some type of reward program to encourage a few important behaviors. Fish Market evolved into Cluck Bucks, and
now we have the “ABCs of Sunday School.”
Students are awarded points each week. When
enough points are collected, the class earns a reward party. Points are given for the following:
December finds both youth groups back together
again for our annual Christmas party complete with
an Ugly Sweater Contest, White Elephant Gift Exchange, as well as special Christmas lessons,
games and activities. I look forward to seeing you
all there: Sunday, December 6th (6 – 8 pm) at Christ
Lutheran.
Attend class
Bring your Bible
Serve in Church
January is a special month. We will have a Boys
KFC and a Girls KFC as well as a Lock – Out at
Camp Lutherwood.
Be part of the Dialog
Bonus points for Excellent participation
Also, look for more information on our upcoming
2016 fundraisers: butter braids, cookie dough, the
rummage sale, bunco blast, and silent auction.
Bring Friends
The more points each child collects each week, the
sooner they earn a party.
Youth Minister Ashley Linn
So let’s encourage our kids to come to Sunday
school; bring their Bibles; bring a friend after that
sleep-over; participate in worship as the acolyte/
playing music/ushering/greeting, etc.!
Sleepover at the Stable
You are invited to join our stable yard as the animals
of the Christmas story take you on a familiar journey
as their people travel far and wide to take part in this
miracle. Gather around as the story of baby Jesus
unfolds from an unusual perspective of these wonderful animals who lived it. Accompany us Sunday,
December 13 at 10 am!
Employment Opportunities at
Lutherwood
Whether we are working on-site or on the go, fulltime, part-time, or seasonally, Lutherwood thrives
thanks in large part to the dedicated people we are
blessed to call staff. We are currently looking to hire
for the following positions: Program Director
(FT) and Bookkeeper (PT).
Rehearsal will be: Sunday, December 6th (12:15 –
1:45), and dress rehearsal: Saturday, December 13th
(9:30 – 11).
Sunday School Superintendent Ashley Linn
8
For job descriptions visit the Lutherwood website at
camplutherwood.org/employment-opportunities.
For questions concerning year-round staffing,
please contact Executive Director, Rob Gillespie,
at [email protected].
The Vision of the Youth and Confirmation Ministries at CLC
To support youth and families, to hear and share stories of faith from the
Bible and one another so that they live with faith and trust in God.
AGAPE
Over 50 people attended the November 16 concert of Lutheran
Hip Hop artist AGAPE. It was an incredible concert with inspiring
messages, and $381.76 was donated to the ELCA World Hunger
Walk for Water campaign!
See www.support.elca.org for more info about the campaign, and
www.hiphopoutreach.com for more info about AGAPE.
9
Christ Lutheran Church Council Meeting—November 10, 2015
Unofficial Minutes; amended to fit available space
Present: Randy Bellville, Scott Boyden, Laura Ensch, Mary Ann Essig, Carolyn
Huggett, Dave Magelssen, Pastor Jana Schofield, Nancy Tupper, Janet Wilhoite,
Kevin Wolter
Absent: Sandy Hall, Pat Kuehnel, Dave Schlack
 Dave M. opened the meeting with prayer.
 October 2015 Minutes: Motion to approve [posted across from church office], carried unanimously.
 Pastor's Report: Available on the bulletin board across from the church office.
 Motion to approve new CLC members Bruce Mathias, Elizabeth Mathias, Matthew Springer, and Betty
Wernberg: carried unanimously.
 business
Violence in churches: emergency response
plan : Kevin presented Department of Homeland
Security’s response plan (Run, Hide, Fight) for
emergency situations such as an active shooter.
Brief discussion: 1) agreement that the policy would
not supersede preschool’s response plan, 2) expression of need for both staff and congregation awareness of plan, 3) understanding of possible future
need for policy revision/expansion by a task force,
and 4) agreement of legal need for plan.
Sandy: not continuing
Dave S: 2nd year of 1st term
Pat: 2nd year of 1st term
Nomination Committee is working to name candidates for four open positions.
Annual Meeting Agenda
Randy to work with Sam Blanton to prepare agenda
as discussed (with added vote for extra meeting of
Jan. 24 to ratify constitution), and to remind committees to prepare for short (2-4 minutes) presentations.
Motion to adopt the DHS emergency response
plan: carried unanimously.
Treasurer’s Report
Trend shows income below projected annual budget
by approximately $13K. Discussion on imposing
fiscal prudence through end of year.
Job Descriptions: Youth Minister and
Parish Administrator
Pastor Jana explained recommendation of changing
office manager job title to parish administrator, with
the position now including bookkeeping. The youth
minister position now includes supervision of childcare providers.
Suggestion also made for refining of monthly reports. Specific suggestions should be sent to Laura.
Motion to notify all committee chairs that, due
to income shortfall, any non-salaried committee
expenditures, with exception of preschool, for
remainder of year, must be pre-approved by
Executive Committee; an email request must be
submitted to Council president: carried unanimously.
Motion to accept job descriptions for parish administrator and youth minister: carried unanimously.
Council 2016: continuing members
Council members shared their intentions for serving
on Council in 2016:
Timing goal for processing requests: 3 days.
Kevin: 2nd year of 2nd term, Stewardship rep.
Nancy: 1st year of 2nd term, Secretary
Mary Ann: 2nd term is expiring,
Scott: 1st year of 2nd term, Preschool rep
Carolyn: 2nd year of 1st term, Youth rep
Dave M: 1st year of 2nd term, Worship & Music rep
Laura: 2nd year of 1st term, Treasurer
Janet: 1st year of 2nd term, Parish Ed. rep
Randy to notify chairs whose reps are absent, and
council reps.
Staff reviews, roles, compensation
-Closed sessionBudget 2016
-Closed sessionMotion to recommend 2016 budget proposal, as
reviewed: carried unanimously.
Absentees
Randy: not continuing
10
Council Corner
Next Executive Committee Meeting: December 2, 6:30 p.m.
Next Council Meeting: December 9, 6:30 p.m.
WE ARE A VILLAGE,
by Randy Bellville
If you didn’t know, this is my last month serving
as your council president. Today I sat in a chair,
sipping some hot tea as I thought, “How can it be
December already?” Unable to answer how it came
so quickly, I began to reflect on what has happened
at Christ Lutheran this year. So many wonderful
examples of grace, peace, stewardship and love.
I am thankful for all who have given precious time,
talents and treasure by helping those in need. So
many good things have happened this year I can’t
begin to list them all.
forces such as the Learning Team. Council, for the
hours each month they spend making decisions so
that we can come, serve and worship each Sunday.
Our staff, who tirelessly work to serve in our best
interest. See, I ran out of room without making a
dent in the great things we do each week such as
recognize our “Equipment Manager”: Pr. Jana. But
as I always say, It Takes a Village! So thank you
everyone!
I love to observe people. Each week I sit in a
different location during service. I relish seeing
your enjoyment as we all sing together, play
instruments, share peace and listen to Pr. Jana’s
message. It gives me pleasure deep within my soul
to see so many happy people together, spiritually
fed and rejoicing in the Spirit of the Lord. As our
world grows more connected and in some ways
more critical of each other, remember He will come
to judge as we are here to serve. Now is the time
for us to judge less and give more to others. The
best part is the more we give, the happier we will
be. So come 2016 don’t worry, keep giving and be
happy!
How about the quilts folded neatly, hung in preparation for a blessing and to be donated in comfort
to others. The beautiful flowers, plants, benches
and more, donated and cared for as part of the
landscape of our church grounds. The Property
Management team, for the hours of work they
spend each year fixing things that break or wear
out in our aging building. Fellowship serving us
between services, and Social Concerns’ watchful
eye in our community. Our youth programs,
including preschool, Sunday School, KFC and so
much more. Evangelism, Worship and Music, and
Parish Education Committees, working tirelessly
to make a difference. The Staff Support Committee,
providing guidance and support with staff and task-
Randy Bellville, CLC Council President
Contact Your Council Representatives
Send your suggestions for Council
Corner topics to [email protected]
or talk to Vice President, Kevin Wolter.
*Council President
Randy Bellville
[email protected]
Evangelism Committee
Mary Ann Essig
[email protected]
Social Concerns Committee
Dave Schlack
[email protected]
*Council Vice President
Kevin Wolter
[email protected]
Fellowship Committee
Sandy Hall
[email protected]
Stewardship Committee
Kevin Wolter
[email protected]
*Council Secretary
Nancy Tupper
[email protected]
Parish Education Committee
Janet Wilhoite
[email protected]
Worship & Music Committee
Dave Magelssen
[email protected]
*Church Treasurer
Laura Ensch
[email protected]
Property Mgmt. Committee
Pat Kuehnel
[email protected]
Youth Committee
Carolyn Huggett
[email protected]
*Executive Committee
(plus the pastor)
Preschool Committee
Scott Boyden
[email protected]
11
Gratitude
by the Rev. Kirby Unti, Bishop NWWA Synod
zations.
Follow this LINK for a full print
version of The Spirit.
As printed in the November 2015 edition of The Spirit
The Spirit, a publication of the Northwest Washington Synod
of the ELCA,
is intended for members of synod congregations and organi-
And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and
birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man
has nowhere to lay his head." Matthew 8:20
I invite you during this
Advent/Christmas season
to see those who struggle
the most in our community
through the eyes of a
child—the child who cannot wait to pick up the
baby Jesus from the
crèche, wrap them in warm
blankets and hold them tightly in love.
One of my fond memories of Christmas at St.
Matthew Lutheran Church in Renton was the
child-sized nativity scene that was set up in the
narthex. The children of the congregation were
utterly fascinated by it and could often be found
playing among Mary & Joseph, the wisemen and
shepherds. In fact, one year a child made off with
the baby Jesus.
+++++
The nativity scene stirs up the child in me. The child
who is captured by the incredibly sad news, "That
there was no room for them in the Inn."
P.S. You will note that I did not use the phrase,
"homeless people." For me, it has become a
demeaning term. Homelessness describes their
lack of shelter. It should never define who a person
is. They are persons without a home.
This sad news has now become a reality in every
town of this Synod. We have families and individuals
who are rebuffed with the same message. "There
is no room for you in the Inn." So, we find people
sleeping in the cars, in tents, on bus shelter benches, and any place that they can find a barrier from
the cold and damp Northwest nights.
NW WA Synod, ELCA
M–F, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
I cannot imagine trying to survive out of doors night
after night. I so easily become cold - even while
living indoors. It would be my worst nightmare.
5519 Phinney Ave. North
Seattle, WA 98103-5829
Phone: 206-783-9292; Fax 206-783-9833
Toll free: 844-597-0452
[email protected]
www.lutheransnw.org
I am grateful that so many of our congregations and
ministry sites are committed to trying to provide
housing for those who go without. I don't think it is
any accident that the Christmas Story includes
lodging the Holy Family in a stable. This is the God
I know. The God who hears the cry of God's people
and comes down to be with us. This is the Jesus
I know who enters into the forsaken, rejected,
brokenness of the world. This is the Spirit I know
who when everyone else is absent comes to
counsel and comfort.
Synod Staff
Rev. Kirby Unti, bishop
Rev. Nancy Winder, assistant to the bishop
Rev. Kathryn Buffum, assistant to the bishop
Rev. Jerry Buss, assistant to the bishop &
director for evangelical mission
Margaret Spatafore, synod office administrator
Susan Berg, synod relations administrator
What would it mean if the community could see
every family without a home as the Holy Family?
What would it mean if every person who has to
seek some form of flimsy shelter in the cold would
be seen as the baby Jesus?
Synod Advent Gatherings
December 1, 1pm-5pm at St. John United, Seattle
December 2, 1pm-5pm at Camano Lutheran Church
Is it possible we might treat our sisters and brothers
with greater kindness? Is it possible that we would
have the political and moral will to put an end to the
reality that there are those who go without shelter?
Your synod office staff is delighted to host TWO Advent
Gatherings again this year. All members and friends of
the synod are invited to stop by for warm drinks and
sweet and savory treats either day.
12
We live in Christ, and share His love with all people.
return me now
to star-stuff
Thank you for your prayers, visits,
and the cards you sent to me after
my surgery. It was very thoughtful
of you and helped to lift my spirits.
Thank you for thinking of me and
for demonstrating the true meaning
of friendship.
Please join in a celebration of the
life of Kenneth Dale Lennon.
December 11, 2015—4:00 p.m.
Christ Lutheran Church
Should you wish to have something read
at the service please send it to the
church at P.O. Box 845, Ferndale, WA
98248 or [email protected].
~ Bette Lorenz
Because Ken so enjoyed having friends
over for dinner, dinner will be served in
the Fellowship Hall following the service.
The deadline for submissions to
an upcoming edition of the Grapevine is 9:00 a.m. on the 15th of the
preceding month. Please, email
items to [email protected]
or leave a copy on the desk in the
church office.
Please RSVP to [email protected]
or 360-733-5181.
Please provide information should you
require vegetarian or vegan.
Individual articles exceeding 1/4 page
(Arial, 11pt) may be edited to fit available space.
Foul Weather Plan
Notice of cancellations of
either worship services or
special events will be on
KGMI radio (790 am) and
their website (KGMI.com)
by 7:00 a.m. Sunday morning.
There will also be an announcement on the church
answering machine (3841422) by that time if services
are changed.
To you is born this
day a savior.
May the birth of Jesus bring
you the gift of everlasting
peace.
If the weather looks questionable, please check these
places before venturing to
church. We want everyone to
be safe.
Merry Christmas, from the
staff at CLC.
13
We live in Christ, and share His love with all people.
December Prayer Vigil for
Peace in the Middle East
Be Safe
Losing a loved-one to a random act of violence is
unthinkable. Unfortunately, recent events serve to
remind us that we are not immune from these
types of tragedies.
SACRED HEART PARISH
1110 14th St. Bellingham, WA
Friday, December 18; 5:30–6:00 p.m.
As we know, an active shooting event can occur
at any time or any place. During the past several
years, there have been active shooter incidents
where we shop, exercise our free speech, learn,
work, and yes, even where we worship.
Whatcom County faith communities continue the
monthly prayer vigils for peace in the Middle East,
which were started in December 2000 at the initiative of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and organized nationally by Churches for Middle East Peace.
Most active shooter situations are unpredictable
and evolve quickly. Because most incidents are
over within minutes, we must be prepared to deal
with the situation until law enforcement personnel
arrive.
Participating congregations thereby can incorporate the welfare of the people of the Middle East
into their Church life and advocacy.
The January prayer vigil will be hosted by Garden
Street United Methodist Church, Bellingham, on
Monday, January 18 at 5:30 p.m.
Preparedness and awareness are the keys to
helping protect our members, visitors and staff.
The following link directs you to a document from
Homeland Security on dealing with these situations. Please read this document and become
familiar with the actions it suggests.
ELCA Good Gifts
The new ELCA Good Gifts catalog is now available. With more than 50 giving options, find something for everyone on your list.
dhs.gov/publication/active-shooter-how-to-respond
The catalog features new gifts, such as the longdrop latrine, and can be a great resource for the
“hard-to-buy-for” person.
Use the ELCA Good Gifts Fair Planning Guide to
help get you started.
http://resources.elca.org/ELCA_Good_GiftsELCA_Good_Gifts_Fair_Planning_Guide_1.html
Please Keep in Prayer
Please continue to hold these individuals and their families in your daily prayers:
 All those who travel
 The loved ones of Mary Wickler, Mary Mason,
 The homebound, and those in nursing homes
Eugene Ensch, Marjorie Huggett, Edna Dion,
Harold Prentice, Rich Campbell and Ken Lennon
and assisted living facilities including Pat,
Kathleen, and Nancy
 Those dealing with life situations and health
 All those who serve in the military including
Melissa, Robert, David, Scott, Thomas, Joshua,
Rick, Kayhan
issues including: Kathie, Madeline, Marlene,
Eli, Cliff, Victoria, Tom, Bette, Debbie, Mel,
Troy, Charles, Shuyler, Judy, Tom, Esme,
Maria, Kathleen, Hazel, Jay, Mary, Melissa,
Bruce, Tony, Jon, Betty Ann, Miranda, Deb,
Ralph, Carolyn, Amanda, Curtis, Dave, Carol,
Charlene, Ginger, Logan, Lisa, Kevin
 Those struggling with deteriorating health,
addictions, and illnesses affecting the mind
and spirit
14
We live in Christ, and share His love with all people.
Faith and Everyday Life
The Comfortable Thanksgiving
Be of Good Comfort, Snoopy
Real comfort translates into “paraclesis,” the
coming alongside that the Spirit does to
strengthen and to provide hope for the possibility of a future.
Snoopy is lying on top of his dog house with
snow piled up on his nose. It is Christmas time
and Charlie Brown is bringing him his Christmas
dog food dish. “Be of good cheer, Snoopy,” he
says and then turns around and goes into the
house. Apparently there was no room in the inn.
We hope that this year you have been both
“Comforted” and “Challenged” to understand the
real meaning of Comforting in your life. God
grant us Comfort and we can be of Comfort to
others.
What ever happened to, “I was sleeping under
a bridge and you helped me find the homeless
shelter?” Or better yet, “I was down in my luck
and you provided a way for me to regain my
dignity and helped me become employed and
able to meet my own basic needs.”
Lutheran Counseling Network
This is not a guilt trip or even a pitch for homeless shelters. It is an illustration that applies to
every level of life. Am I going to patch it or fix it,
what ever it is? Am I going to throw a bone at it
or do something about changing the fabric or
structure
of it?
Lutheran Network Counselors
are available in Bellingham
Melanie Springer Cool, MA, LMHC
Positive Psychology Counselor
360-715-2166, ext. 2
Christ the Servant Lutheran Church,
2600 Lakeway Drive
Bone thrown comfort salves our conscience but
does little to provide real comfort to those in
need. Are our Christmas baskets an end to our
comforting or are they a beginning? Will we feed
people once a year, once a month or feed thousands each week?
Margaret Mary Pierce, MA, LMHCA
Therapy for Individuals and Couples,
Spiritual Direction
360-927-6753
Our Saviour's Lutheran Church,
1720 Harris Avenue
Save these Dates
December 20 @ 10:00 a.m.
ONE worship service
December 24 @ 5:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve service (contemporary)
December 24 @ 9:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve service (traditional)
December 27 @ 10:00 a.m.
ONE worship service of
Lessons and Carols
December 11 @ 4:00 p.m.
Memorial Service for Ken Lennon
December 13 @ 10:00 a.m.
ONE worship service with
Sunday School Christmas Play
December 14 @ 11:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Preschool Christmas Programs
15
Sunday
Monday
29
Tuesday
30
December
2015
A 12 month calendar
is available at clcferndale.org
6
Advent 2
9:00 AM
Worship
10:00 AM
Coffee Hour
10:15 AM
Sunday School
(Preschool - adult)
11:15 AM
Worship
12:15 PM
Sunday School play
rehearsal
6:00 PM
KFC Christmas Party
Advent 3
13
Community Meal
Offering
10:00 AM
Worship with Sunday
School Program
11:00 AM
Pot Luck Lunch
12:00 p.m.
Giving tree gifts due
6:00 PM
KFC - Middle school
Advent 4
20
No Sunday School
Pr. Jana's
Day Off
14
Pr. Jana's
Day Off
11:30 AM
Preschool
Christmas
Program
7:00 PM
Preschool
Christmas
Program
21
Pr. Jana's
Day Off
10:00 AM
Worship
11:00 AM
Coffee Hour
6:00 PM
KFC - High school
27
NO Sunday School
10:00 AM
Service of Carols and
Readings
11:00 AM
Coffee Hour
6:00 PM
KFC - Middle school
1
6:30 PM
Executive
Committee
Meeting
6:30 PM
Property
Management
6:30 PM
Social
Concerns
Committee
8
7
9:00 AM
Quilters
7:00 PM
Bible
Conversations
7:00 PM
PEP
(Preschool
Event
Planners)
meeting
28
Pr. Jana's
Day Off
Wednesday
9:30 AM
Stephen
Minister
Group
meeting
6:30 PM
Council
Meeting
Thursday
2
9:00 AM
Bulletin Announcements
Deadline
2:00 PM
Youth Minister
Office Hours
5:30 PM
Worship Band rehearsal
7:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal
9
9:00 AM
Bulletin Announcements
Deadline
2:00 PM
Youth Minister
Office Hours
5:30 PM
Worship Band rehearsal
7:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal
Pr. Jana,
Synod
Candidacy
Committee
6:30 PM
Evangelism
Committee
Meeting
Friday
3
10
Saturday
4
Office
Closed
5
9:00 AM
Craft Group
12
11
Office
Closed
4:00 PM Memorial Service
Ken
Lennon
9:30 AM
Sunday
School play
dress
rehearsal
10:00 AM
Community
Meal Served
Church Office Hours, M–TH
8:30–11:30 a.m. & noon–3:00 p.m.
(Closed 11:30 a.m.–noon for lunch)
15
9:00 AM
Newsletter
Submissions
Due
22
5:30 PM
Advent
Holden
Prayer
Around the
Cross,
Worship
28
Pr. Jana
Vacation
16
9:00 AM
Bulletin Announcements
Deadline
2:00 PM
Youth Minister
Office Hours
3:30 PM
Staff Christmas
gathering and
quarterly meeting
5:30 PM
Worship Band rehearsal
7:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal
23
9:00 AM
Bulletin Announcements
Deadline
2:00 PM
Youth Minister
Office Hours
5:30 PM
Worship Band rehearsal
7:00 PM
Choir Rehearsal
7:00 PM
Preschool
Committee
Office
Closed
18
19
10:00 AM
Community
Meal Served
3:00 PM
Sue Gault Student
Recital
Preschool Classes, M–F
9:30 am–12:15 pm & 1:00–3:15 pm
(No afternoon classes on M or F)
5:00 PM
Family
Worship
Service
9:00 PM
Candle
Lighting
Worship
Service
Pr. Jana Vacation 30
9:00 AM
Bulletin Announcements
Deadline
2:00 PM
Youth Minister
Office Hours
5:30 PM
Worship Band rehearsal
7:00 PM
16
Choir Rehearsal
17
24
Office
Closed
26
Christmas
Day
31
Pr. Jana
Vacation
25
1
Office
Closed
New Years’
Day
(Pr. Jana
off)
2
Christ Lutheran Church, ELCA
5904 Vista Drive, P.O. Box 845
Ferndale, WA 98248
Office Hours
Monday–Thursday (closed Fridays)
8:30–11:30 a.m. & noon–3:00 p.m.
Sunday Worship
9:00 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. September –May
10:00 a.m. June–Labor day
Children (infant–5yrs) are welcome
at any time in the cry room during
worship. Our child care providers
will nurture and care for them, at
no charge.
Contact Us
Church: 360-384-1422
Fax: 925-480-5594
Preschool: 360-380-2233
[email protected]
www.clcferndale.org
Our Staff
Pastor
Rev. Jana Schofield
[email protected]
Youth Minister
Ashley Linn
[email protected]
Preschool Director
Liza Okan
[email protected]
Office Manager
Sam Blanton
[email protected]
Preschool Teachers
Cheryl Johnson
[email protected]
Lavonne Eggink
[email protected]
Preschool Teachers’ Assistant
Jenny Wiederholt
[email protected]
Assistant to the Youth Minister
Kaleb Ode
[email protected]
Custodian
Letha Nungesser
[email protected]
Choir Director
Rachel Wulff
[email protected]
Inside this edition:
 Shop and give at the same time
November 29–December 5
 Sunday School play & Pot luck lunch
December 13
 Prayer Around the Cross Worship
December 22
Contemporary Music Director
Matt Springer
[email protected]
Organists
Sue Gault
Carolyn Jonson
17