Reformation Sunday is October 25
October 2015 ISSUE 10 / VOLUME 21
OctoberFestivities
Fruits of the Harvest
Sunday, October 11, 8am-12pm
Our food-focused fundraiser sponsored by the ELCW has something
everyone can “relish”. Page 3
New Life Band
October 18, 8:30 & 10:30; October 21, 5:30-8pm
Our friends from Tanzania will lead both worship services on
October 18. The “Elim for Elimu” Fundraiser on October 21
promises to be fun-filled evening for the entire family. Page 2
R.C. Kohl Concert & Lecture
Sunday, October 25, 3pm
Hear the history and melodies of Mexican classical guitarist
Octaviano Yáñez by researcher, educator, and musician Dr. Randall
Kohl. Page 3
THE SOURCE A Monthly Newsletter of Elim Lutheran Church
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OCTOBER EVENTS
EXCITEMENT GROWS FOR THE NEW LIFE BAND’S OCTOBER VISIT TO ELIM
Mark your calendars for these special events!
Sunday, October 18 – New Life Band at both Elim Services Elim will extend a giant “Karibu” welcome back the New Life Band
from Tanzania as they join morning worship services at 8:30 and
10:30am. Come, listen, participate, and be inspired as the Band
shares its mission to youth and students in Tanzania through an
incredible mix of music and story. The Band will have available CDs
with music from their 2015 concert tour as well as other African
artifacts.
Share with the Band. You are invited to donate items that are new or gently-used for the Band.
Suggested items are children’s clothing and shoes of all sizes; men’s and women’s clothing including
shoes of all sizes; children’s books. Please bring your donations to the church by Friday, October 16, and
place in the box found in the Welcome Area. We’ll share these with the New Life Band on October 18.
Items will be taken home to family and friends in Arusha, Tanzania, where it’s difficult to have many of
the everyday things we take for granted here in the USA. Thank you for helping with this project of
giving back.
Wednesday, October 21 – Elim for Elimu Fundraiser 5:30pm - African Family Activities, 6pm - African Dinner, 7pm - Christian Praise Concert by the Band
This is a night ready-made for the whole family. This will be an incredible evening filled with fun, food
and music that moves your soul and body. Dinner tickets will be available beginning Sunday, October 4.
Come and Enjoy!
We’ll need help with set-up, clean-up, food prep, and helping with the kids activities. Please contact
Susan Rodkin if you can lend a hand.
New Life Band Mission to Youth and Students For many years, Elim has joined dozens of congregations in California and the Midwest by supporting
the mission to youth and students of the New Life Band in Tanzania. The faithful contributions given by
Elim members have helped with the construction of the New Life Secondary and Vocational School
located 15 miles outside of Arusha, Tanzania. Our current focus project is to assist with the completion
of Elimu, the hostel and girls’ dorm/classroom building on the school site.
This building was dedicated during a visit to Tanzania in 2013 by the Elim
mission team. It’s time to bring building construction to completion and
make this building a safe and comfortable place for young female students
at the school to live and learn. Please consider donating generously to the
Elimu building during the New Life Band’s visit to Elim.
Asante sana – Swahili for ‘Thanks very much”.
Mungu Awubariki – Swahili for “God Bless”.
Elimu - Swahili for “education”
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CLASSICAL MEXICAN GUITAR CONCERT Sunday, October 25, 3pm
Dr. Randall (R. C.) Kohl will discuss the history and perform compositions
and arrangements by the Orizaban guitarist Octaviano Yáñez (1865-1927)
who, though largely unknown today, was considered Mexico’s finest
classical guitarist during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This
program of simple, enjoyable melodies set to waltz and habanera rhythms
pleasantly portrays the salon music of Mexico’s “belle époque.” This
concert and lecture is free and open to all.
Dr. Kohl holds a BA in Music with Honors from the University of California
at Santa Cruz (UCSC), an MA in Ethnomusicology from the University of
Hawaii at Manoa (UHM), and a Doctorate in History and Regional Studies
from the Universidad Veracruzana (UV) in Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico. He is a full-time, tenured
professor on the Music Faculty at the Universidad Veracruzana and a member of Mexico’s Sistema
Nacional de Investigadores (National System of Researchers).
The prelude at the 8:30 service for the next few weeks and maybe occasionally before the 10:30 service
will be tracks from the CD Homenaje. You may listen to excerpts of his CDs at
www.cdbaby.com/Artist/RCKohl.
“RELISH” THE FRUITS OF THE HARVEST Sunday, October 11, 8am – 12pm
“Fruits of the Harvest” is our food-focused fundraiser in the non-Bazaar years. Some of our industrious
Elim members have been using their garden bounty to make yummy jams, pickles, relishes, sauces and
such to donate towards this fundraiser. If you have some homemade canned goods to donate, please
bring them to the office during the week of October 4.
Just some examples of the goodness you will find: apricot jam, Satsuma plum jam, Santa Rosa plum jam,
blackberry jam, apple butter, zucchini relish, zucchini bread-and-butter pickles, carrot cake jam, and
more! Prices will be $3 for 8-oz. jars, $30 for a case of 12. Makes a great gift!
ANNOUNCEMENTS ELIM LUTHERAN CHURCH WOMEN (ELCW)
Circles Would you like to attend a monthly women’s group but not sure which one? Just contact the Circle
Chairs and let them know you are interested. Below you will find Circle information and when they
each meet.
Grace Friendship (Anita Kelly) meets on the 2nd Thursday (October 8) of each month at 12pm in the
back of the sanctuary. Pastor Bill will lead the Bible study.
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Elizabeth (Susan Rodkin) usually meets on the 3rd Monday of the month. Circle will meet at Debra
Jensen Orner’s home on October 19 to discuss the second chapter of How Did I Get to Be 70 When I’m
30 Inside?
Esther (JoAnn Andrus) meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Noon; next meeting will be at
12pm on October 13 at Marian Olsen’s home.
Thankoffering Tea Saturday, November 14, 1-3pm;
tickets go on sale October 25
Thank goodness - it's almost time for the Thankoffering
Tea! Expect a delicious buffet tea service, jazzy
entertainment, raffles, and the Thankoffering service.
Tickets are $10 and a limited number of tickets will be
sold – purchase them on Sunday mornings beginning
October 25.
Helpers are needed! Contact Amy York (762-5460),
Suzy Sellai (775-3449), or Debra Jensen Orner (217-2051)
to hostess a table or help bake cookies, mini scones, and
sweet breads.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Most Sundays at 9:40am in the Fellowship Hall
Prayer shawls are given to people experiencing hardships so that they may know that they are embraced
by God and Elim during difficult times. We knit and crochet at home as well as gathering on Sunday
mornings between services. We have plenty of yarn to go around and are willing to teach anyone who
wants to learn.
Women of Faith & Fellowship (WoFF) Thursday, October 8, 7pm in the Fireside Room
Please join us for Elim's Women of Faith & Fellowship group open to all women, college age and
beyond, who want to explore their faith and develop closer friendships with other Elim ladies. We
usually meet in the Fireside Room for an hour on the 2nd Tuesday of the month starting at 7pm. Every
few months the group may take the meeting on the road so keep an eye out in the announcements. This
month we’ll discuss a podcast posted on Café - a free, monthly, and on-line magazine for young adult
women that explores topics that are relevant to women and how faith relates to these issues. Please join
us on October 8 at 7pm for discussion and to meet new and old friends. If you have questions email
Lana Reuter.
NEW – Crafters’ Brunch Bunch Saturdays, 10:30am-1pm, Rooms 1 & 2
Join us to craft wonderful items to donate towards benefits of the
ministries of Elim and for upcoming craft fairs. Bring a goodie to share,
your favorite Pinterest ideas or other project suggestions, and enjoy the
fellowship of this crafty bunch! All ages and abilities are welcome.
Thankofferings are a tradition dating back to
the 1800s, when Christian women formed
“mite” or “cent” societies to fund mission.
When others in the church said there was not
enough money to carry out these projects, the
women believed otherwise. In these societies,
each woman collected offerings at home. On
occasion, they would gather as we do today to
worship and combine their offerings and offer
them up with thanks and praise.
Each year, in thousands of congregations,
Thankofferings are collected and sent to
support the life-changing ministries of Women
of the ELCA. Together, we do more than we
could ever do apart.
Wish list: colorful fall
leaves, modge podge, large
wreath forms, small power
tools, paint brushes, small/
medium canvases.
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HEALING PRAYER
Healing Meditative Prayer Saturday, October 17, 10:15am, church office
If you would like a group of people to pray for you, the third Saturday of the month is one of the times.
We do this confidentially. We will ask no more questions unless you wish to discuss further. It takes
about 20-30 minutes with. To set an appointment, please call the church office (762-4081).
Annual Meditation and Healing Prayer Retreat November 6-8 in Inverness
Our annual Meditation and Healing Prayer Retreat at beautiful St. Columba’s Episcopal Church and
Retreat House in Inverness will take place on November 6-8. If you’ve wanted to find out more about
meditation and Healing Prayer, now is the time to discover what it is all about and how people benefit
from it. Meditation helps you to relax and focus on God. In Healing Prayer, you become God’s vessel to
help people feel the comfort of God’s love.
The retreat starts around 5pm on Friday afternoon and ends after lunch on Sunday. The cost of the
retreat is $50 per night which is the per person cost to use St. Columba's Retreat House. We provide our
own food and attendees take turns preparing meals. Attendees must bring their own towels and
sleeping bags or twin bed linens, however, there is a limited supply of linens available there. For more
information or to sign up, please contact Ben Barnes or Cynthia Griffith. The deadline for signing up for
the retreat is Friday, October 23.
QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS FOR THE LEADERSHIP TEAM? Sunday, October 11, between services in the side room of the Fellowship Hall
The Leadership Team will be holding “office hours” in the side room of the Fellowship Hall between
services on Sunday, October 11. This is the first in a monthly series that will be held the Sunday before
the LT’s monthly meeting. If you have questions or suggestions for the Leadership Team, want to
discuss your concerns, give feedback, or just get to know the members of the LT better, please feel free to
join us. And if you can’t make it on October 11 or need to get in touch with the LT at other times, you
can always reach out to us using the contact form on Elim’s website:
www.elimpetaluma.org/staff--leaders
CALL COMMITTEE UPDATE
We have received our slate of candidates from the Synod and have
started the interview process. We are all excited about the
possibilities! Please keep us and Elim in your prayers as we listen to
how the Holy Spirit will guide us.
A DRY WINTER (INSIDE)
Your Facilities Team is praying for a dry winter inside the church,
and it may actually be the driest in the past 30 years! For a long time we have been accumulating water
stains in the church and the Fellowship Hall, testimony to the fact that we have had leaks everywhere.
Particularly in the overflow room, the history room, and around the large stained glass window on the
west wall, rain water has penetrated. Had Noah suffered that many leaks in the Ark, all those critters
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would have found themselves “in the drink”. This year we have sealed the roof in the sanctuary and on
flat roof sections of the Fellowship Hall. The large stained glass window has been restored and sealed
with clear protective panels. In progress now is the repair and repainting of the water damaged
sheetrock. Bring on El Nino! True faith is daring to repaint before the rains arrive.
ALL SAINTS’ SUNDAY Remembrance during both services on November 1
On November 1 we will celebrate All Saints’ Day in worship. We will
remember those who have entered life eternal since the last All Saints’ Day
(November 2, 2014). We invite you to call or email the church office by
October 28 if you would like to add the name (also need date of death) of an
immediate family member who has passed on in the last year to our list of
people to remember.
THE GARDEN OF ELIM
How time flies! Elim’s landscaping was originally designed and installed more than 20 years ago.
Today, stubborn stray blackberries, weeds, crabgrass and Bermuda grass have infiltrated, there’s
insufficient mulch, and in these drought-stricken years, the areas of grass seem unnecessary. The good
news is that we have lots of good ideas!
The core team of volunteers working on the landscape maintenance has had a busy summer, but we are
now back to thinking about the future. This fall, one minor change will be made: an additional,
matching crepe myrtle tree will be added in the empty landscaping strip near the street by the entrance
to the parking lot. Next, we will be creating the survey we talked about earlier this summer—to assess
the congregation’s feelings about the landscape and the possibility of
creating a new master plan that would feature a more cohesive,
sustainable, water-efficient, and beautiful design to better welcome both
members and visitors.
Stay tuned for more information to come. And, as always, if you have
extra time to share, contact Julie Prime or the office. There are always
opportunities for volunteers to help maintain our existing landscaping.
Even a few hours of your time can make a big difference!
NURSERY STAFF STILL NEEDED
We are still accepting applications for one more person to join our paid nursery staff. The nursery is an
essential part of the ministry at Elim; welcoming and providing hospitality to members and visitors with
young children, birth through four years of age. Staff would work from 8:15am to around noon and
would only work one or two Sundays each month. Ideally applicants should be at least 18, have some
first aid and other appropriate training as well as experience with very young children. Since this person
will be working during our worship services, perhaps you know of a neighbor who attends their church
services at another time? A background check will be required. To apply, visit the church website for
the full job description and a job application.
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MUSIC
JOIN CHANCEL CHOIR! Rehearsals on Wednesdays, 5:30-7pm, Choir Room
New members are always invited to join the Chancel Choir! This group primarily sings the special
music at the 8:30am service. If you are interested in knowing more about Chancel Choir, contact Cathe
Kiler at [email protected].
FESTIVAL CHOIR SEASON BEGINNING SOON Rehearsals 7-9pm in the Choir Room: October 29; November 5, 12, 19;
December 3, 10; dress rehearsal December 12
Come one, come all! Lift your voices in song to worship and praise
during this very special Sunday in Advent. The Elim Festival Choir
will begin preparing to sing anthems for both services on December 13.
We will have rehearsals on Thursday nights in the Choir Room from 7-9pm and a
dress rehearsal on Saturday, December 12.
Festival Choir welcomes everyone (Elim members or not) to join us in song.
Singing in worship is a wonderful form of prayer! This is a great opportunity to be
part of one of our choirs that calls for a short commitment of your time. I am so
energized and excited to see everyone at our first rehearsal!
- Laila Schoenlein
FAITH FORMATION INTERESTED IN ELIM’S PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES? Brain-storming session on October 4, 9:40-10:25am, side room of the Fellowship Hall
Elim members who participated in our transition workshops last year made it clear that Elim should
remain committed to an active program of ministry to families (what we have sometimes called
Children, Youth, and Family Ministry or CYF). Our program has gone through a lot of changes over the
last few years, and the Leadership Team believes the time is ripe to take a fresh look at the program and
come up with some concrete ideas—small, medium, or large—to pursue this year. Everyone with an
interest in our program for families is invited to a Town Hall meeting in the Fellowship Hall side room
from 9:40am to 10:25am (between services) on Sunday, October 4. Parents and grandparents, potential
volunteers—everyone’s input and contribution is welcome!
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Sunday School classes have begun! Classes are held 9:40-10:25am and we will continue to offer
Children’s Church during the sermon at the 10:30am service.
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3-year olds through 1st grade; Room 6; teachers: Amy Malaise, Susie
McGavin, Susan Wessner, Jacqulin Percy Paul
Godly Play offers a creative, child-honoring way of entering into and
experiencing the biblical story. In our Godly Play sessions, we play with
the language of God and God’s People: our sacred stories, parables,
liturgical actions and silence. Through this powerful language, our
wonderings, and the community of players gathered together, we hear the
deepest invitation of all: an invitation to come play with God.
2nd-4th grades; Room 9; teachers: Mary Wyrick, Kristy Oakes, Jill Eskes,
Laine Price Gen
Hang out at Camp and have fun learning Bible stories and trivia . . .
Genesis has 2 stories about creation – did one involve Legos?
Are there really 10 Commandments?
“Give us this day our daily bread…” what about pizza?
Lessons, crafts, games, and more! Friends are always welcome, too! Bring
your spare change this year to help buy piglets through ELCA World
Hunger.
5th -6th grades; History Room or Room 10; taught by Mike Pesutich; meets
on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month
We hope you will join your classmates as we work our way to
Confirmation. We will get to know each other and get to know a bit about
our Lutheran faith. Our study will get us familiar with the meaning of the
Creeds, Ten Commandments, Lord’s Prayer, Martin Luther, and all those
questions you may have wanted to ask.
RECRUITING TEAMMATES FOR GODLY PLAY
"Godly Play" is our Montessori-inspired Sunday School program for children ages 3 through 1st grade
and more caring adults are wanted for this program! No experience or major preparation required. All
lessons are already prepped and in the classroom. Storytellers should come to class knowing the story
for the day. Greeter should be familiar with classroom procedures. That's it! Please contact the office if
you can help.
CALLING ALL HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH!!
Join us on Wednesday nights for fellowship and fun every week, 6:30-8pm. This month the group will
play a game of Real-life Clue on October 14 and adult volunteers are needed to play the different
characters. Also, the first lock-in of the season will be on October 24 and 25. The group will meet at Elim
at 4:30pm and all go to the Petaluma Corn Maze, and then back to Elim for dinner and games. Contact
Sarah Labberton if you are interested in volunteering for Real Life Clue or chaperone for the lock-in!
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The high school youth are all invited to join Elim R³ in a service project on October 4, 1-5pm. The group
will be doing yardwork for a friend of the congregation.
Here is the calendar for October events.
October 4: service project with Elim R³
October 7: discussion theme: growing up
October 14: Real Life Clue (“characters” needed)
October 21: No meeting, but will help at the New Life Band
benefit in the Fellowship Hall
October 24-25: Corn Maze and Lock-in (chaperones needed)
October 28: discussion theme: self-awareness
Sarah Labberton, our High School youth leader, can be reached at [email protected] or 707-696-
5175 or stop by the church office during her office hours: Wednesday, 3-5pm; Friday, 2-4pm.
ADULT FAITH FORMATION OPPORTUNITIES
Adult Forum – New Topic Beginning Sundays at 9:40am in the Choir Room
“Opening the Bible” is the new topic in class. Bring yourselves
and sharp minds (or as good as it gets at 9:40am); materials
provided. All adults are invited and encourage to attend at any
time.
Exploring the Story Tuesdays at 7pm, Choir Room
Come and engage in deep, meaningful, and exploratory
conversation about the Bible readings from the previous
Sunday.
OUTREACH
ASSISTANCE TO FIRE VICTIMS
Lutheran Disaster Response and Lutheran Social Services of Northern California are receiving donations
that will be used to offer support, healing and hope for victim of the Valley & Butte fires. Donations
given to LDR and LSS will be used to deal with more long-term needs of the affected areas, as the weeks
and months wear on and assistance from many sources
begins to dwindle. LDR and LSS are known for
accompanying communities and families impacted by
disasters for the long haul; they are often among the last to
leave. They will coordinate with local congregations and
relief agencies to put your gifts to the best and most needed
uses.
Donate online:
Lutheran Disaster Response
www.elca.org/Our-Work/Relief-and-
Development/Lutheran-Disaster-
Response/
Lutheran Social Services of Northern
California http://www.lssnorcal.org/
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SECOND MILE GIVING | CHANGE THE WORLD: LUTHERAN EPISCOPAL ADVOCACY IN NEVADA
“Second mile giving” refers to an extra offering towards a special cause. The October recipient will be Lutheran
Episcopal Advocacy in Nevada. Check off “Special Offering” on the pew envelopes, look for the special offering
envelopes in the back of the sanctuary, or click on the “Donate Now” button on our website to contribute.
The first organization of its kind in the United States, Lutheran Episcopal Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN)
was formed in March 2014 as the result of conversations between former Bishop Mark Hanson of the
ELCA and Presiding Bishop Katherine Jefferts-Schori of the Episcopal Church in America (former Bishop
of the Episcopal Diocese of Nevada). LEAN advocates for the common good and promotes public
policies that reflect the Christian values of peacemaking, hospitality to strangers, care for creation, and
concern for people living in poverty and struggling with hunger and disease.
• Work for tax and fiscal policies that reflect our Christian values while making wise provision for
a growing population, including the disadvantaged.
• Work to achieve affordable housing for all.
• Work to eradicate hunger and poverty in Nevada and throughout the world.
• Advocate for wage levels that enable all persons to adequately support self and family.
• Work toward a criminal justice system that is just and prepares offenders to reenter society
successfully.
LEAN gets some financial support from the Grand Canyon Synod Episcopal Diocese of Nevada and
ELCA & Episcopal churchwide. Gifts to LEAN in the Second Mile campaign will strengthen this
ministry and continue working for a more just society in Nevada that reflects our shared values. Your
contribution will keep the momentum going! LEAN is guided by a Policy Council that meets to
prioritize issues for advocacy activity. Policy Council members represent the Sierra Pacific and Grand
Canyon Synods, and Episcopal diocese in Nevada. LEAN is accountable to the ELCA and the Synods for
its advocacy work.
www.leanforjustice.org
ELIM'S REBUILD, RECOVER, RESTORE TEAM NEWS
New Orleans 2016 July 9-17, 2016; deadline to sign up is October 25
The Elim Rebuild, Recover and Restore - Elim R3 – is organizing a
service trip to New Orleans in July 2016. This is an intergenerational
trip for members and friends ages 15 to whatever. The anticipated cost
of this trip is $500 and the first payment and forms will be due Sunday,
October 25; turn in at the church office or with Athena Labberton.
Space is limited so please get these in on time or even before the 25th.
Forms are found on our website at www.elimpetaluma.org/new-orleans-2016.html
October 4 Service Day Elim R3 will be helping a friend who was disabled by a stroke. If you would like to do some good deeds
and like trimming, mowing, weeding, or can help fix a gate, Elim R3 wants to hear from you! Elim R3 is
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open to all. Bring gloves and wear gardening-appropriate shoes. Contact Athena Labberton
(athena_labberton@ yahoo.com) or Robin Merrill ([email protected]) for information.
EASTSIDE AND WESTSIDE INTERFAITH PANTRIES
This month Elim serves on Tuesday, October 6 at Lucchesi Park and will cover the Westside Pantry on
Thursday, October 15, in our Fellowship Hall. Come a little before 5pm to help set up. We start serving
at 5:30pm and are usually done and headed home by 6pm. Bring the kids, a friend or neighbor, and a
high school student who needs to fulfill community service hours. If you would like to be included in
the reminder emails about pantries, please contact Becky in the office ([email protected] / 762-
4081).
PETALUMA DAY LABOR INITIATIVE (PDLI)
The Petaluma Day Labor Initiative (PDLI) Organizer, Javier Antezana, was hired in May with a Sonoma
County General Fund grant, which covers his salary through October. That grant has provided for
training to all Day Labor Groups that are part of the County Day Labor Collaborative. The training,
overseen by Graton Day Labor, is for organizing and development of
leadership within the day laborer population. Javier, in addition to his own
training, has been out on the street introducing himself and getting
feedback. In the past month he has assisted workers in getting medical aid
for work-related injuries and approached employers who have not paid
workers. Wage theft is a big issue. Word is out that workers are getting
assistance.
Javier has both voicemail (PPSC/765-4888) and email ([email protected]) and referrals can be
made by him. He is collecting data on worker skills and canvassing those workers who might be
interested in leadership training. Once the grant money is expended, Javier's salary will be paid by the
Petaluma People Services Center during the gap between other possible grants and fund-raising. A
brochure for the Petaluma 275 fund-raising campaign will soon be available, once approved by the
Steering Committee, which consists of representatives from faith-based and community organizations.
Any questions, call Judy Peterson (763-8052).
MT. CROSS OVERNIGHT CAMPSITES WILL RETURN!
On October 10, the overnight campgrounds will be renewed: new picnic tables and split wood fence
dividers will be installed, fire pits upgraded, and new camp lockers built. This will all be accomplished
with a group of Mt. Cross volunteers and funds from The Clarke Family Fund part of the InFaith
Community Foundation. Overnight housing and meals will be provided at Mt. Cross. If you would like
to be involved in this work day in the beautiful Santa Cruz area, please let Nancy L. Clarke know
([email protected]). The Clarkes have been planning this project with the Steve Solberg, Director of
Mt. Cross, and are excited that this beautiful campground will again be available for all of to use. Who
knows, maybe we can have our overnight Elim Family Camp at Mt. Cross! We have just received
approval for Thrivent Action Funds to purchase great food for our Saturday night meal so come and
work, enjoy some great fellowship, free overnight accommodations, a t-shirt and satisfaction on creating
and overnight campground and Mt. Cross. You can let Nancy know or call Kyle at Mt. Cross by October
2 to RSVP at 831-336-5179.
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DONATION DAY AT WORK: READY APPAREL
Friday, October 16, is Community Donation Day at Work: Ready Apparel! Stop by 301 1st Street with
your pre-laundered clothing and accessories between 4pm and 6pm. They are currently accepting fall
and winter work-appropriate clothing -- no coats or blazers please!
Their greatest needs currently include:
Men's jeans and work pants (i.e. Carharts) in good condition - no tears, no big stains, no frayed
hems
Men's new white "undershirts/tanks" for under dress shirts, all sizes
Men's belts, dress shoes and work boots
Men's and women's black or white polo shirts
Women's dress pants and tops, size 14, 16, 18, 20, 22
Women's work-appropriate purses
All donations are tax deductible. Donated items which are not needed in the shop may be exchanged or
donated to another non-profit. The COTS' Work: Ready Apparel shop provides complete work-
appropriate outfits to homeless job-seekers in our community. Work: Ready Apparel is completely
volunteer-run and managed and all clothing and accessories have been donated. For more information,
please reach out to Jenna at [email protected].
REGISTRY Garry Sullivan died on September 13. A Celebration of Life was held on September 20 at Parent-
Sorensen.
Juliet Michelle King was baptized on September 20. Juliet is the daughter of Jeremy and Elisa, little
sister to Scarlett and Grady.
GRATITUDE Some of our members deserve a shout-out for their behind-the-scenes good deeds . . . Our annual church
picnic was a hit not to miss thanks to our unofficial “Meat Ministry Team” of Dolores and Gene
McCloud and Kathy and Bob Reinhard (KaBob) who caused widespread food comas in all in
attendance. The day was complete with our sweet Cake Walk thanks to the Reuter Family. Julie Prime
and George Matt were caught trimming grass and hedges one Saturday morning and what a difference
it made. Kathy Matt, Dolores Frey McCloud, Marian Olsen, and Paul Behringer put their
organizational skills to use to clean out rooms others fear to tackle. The Roberti family hosted Family
Camp at the Petaluma KOA where a good time was had by all who could take the heat. The Labbertons
treated worshippers on September 20 to beignets in commemoration of the 10th anniversary of
Hurricane Katrina. Their tip jar yielded over $300 that was donated to Lutheran Social Services of
Northern California to aid fire victims. Thanks to all volunteers who care enough about Elim and our
ministries to generously donate time and talents for everyone’s benefit. We are truly surrounded by
great people . . . continue reading for proof! -Becky
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Thank you to all who participated in the 2015 “God's work. Our hands.” Sunday. We had 60+ people
making, delivering and assembling cookies; making close to 50 dog and cat blankets; cleaning up a
portion of Adobe Creek with the United Anglers; and cleaning up and serving dinner at the Mary Isaak
Center. “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday is an intergenerational day of service when ELCA members
are called to put their faith into action by engaging in service activities in their community. Elim
members and friends were more than generous with their time and did good work. Thank you!! Next
year we will be aiming to find some great service projects. If you have an idea or comments on this
project, please let me know.
-Athena Labberton
An Elim member contacted me about twin mattresses for the two families that was posted in Elim’s
announcement page. I told this individual that mattresses had been donated for the families, but that we
were opening a new transitional house on October 1st and actually needed 4 twin beds for that facility. I
was hesitant to even bring it up since that could get expensive and it was for a completely different
project. But within 24 hours I got a call from Sleep City saying that the Elim member had talked with the
owner and they were donating 4 brand new twin sets to us. A “set” means mattress, box spring, and
metal frame! Our clients are grateful when they have a mat on the floor, so a real bed - not to mention a
brand NEW bed - is going to mean so much to the 4 lucky people moving in. I was so grateful I almost
cried. Many, many thanks,
-Indigo Perry, Volunteer Coordinator at COTS
Many, many thanks for the cookies from “God's work. Our hands.” Sunday. The cookies are good and
the gesture gives encouragement, hope, and kind regard. I so appreciate all the kind regard since my
surgery last March and subsequent treatment which continues. As the poem from the ACS Relay for
Life expressed, each expression is just one little candle, but I can assure you of its power for me in
healing and staying strong to make adjustments as needed and to keep living the wonderful life I have
been given. So every card, every call, every visit, all the food, every reading of the prayer list, every
happy greeting of friendship and fellowship at church, and, of course, every silent prayer has become
that healing I feel and that strength. Thank you. And may the peace of the Lord be with you in all your
days . . .
-Shelley Westby
FINANCIAL REPORT
elimpetaluma.org OCTOBER 2015 | PAGE 14
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
These are funds that we receive as regular offering, cost sharing from the preschool and other groups; we
use it to pay salaries and our operating expenses.
August 2015 Actual Budget Variance Revenue $27,384 $27,299 $85
Expenses $24,021 $32,233 $8,212
Net Increase (Decrease) $3,363 ($4,934) $8,297
Year-to-Date Actual Budget Variance
Income $90,280 $88,947 $1,333
Expenses $87,979 $102,385 $14,405
Net Increase (Decrease) $2,300 ($13,438) $15,738
Full Year Forecast Actual/Forecast Budget Variance
Income $422,714 $418,842 $3,872
Expenses $411,419 $418,842 $7,423
Net Increase (Decrease) $11,295 -- $11,295
Operating Reserve: $79,046 The operating reserve consists of unrestricted liquid assets that provide liquidity for daily operations
and can be used to meet unexpected and unbudgeted expenses.
Second Mile Giving and Special Giving, August 2015
Mt. Cross Outdoor Ministries $350.06 New Life Hostel/Girls’ Dorm $4,415.00
New Life School $67.50 Food Pantries $755.00
New Life Band $947.00
WORSHIP NOTES ALTAR FLOWERS
October 4: Atwood; October 11: open; October 18: open; October 25: open
Help make the altar look special each Sunday! You are invited to pick a date that is significant to you
and provide the altar flowers. A sign-up sheet can be found in the Welcome Area.
READINGS
On the Sundays from September 13 through May, the texts follow the sweep of the biblical story, from
Creation through the early Christian church. From September through mid-December, the preaching
texts begin with the early chapters of Genesis, move through the stories of Israel’s early history, the
exodus, the kings, prophets, exile, and return.
elimpetaluma.org OCTOBER 2015 | PAGE 15
October 4: Moses and God’s Name Exodus 1:8-14, 3:1-10 ‒ The descendants of Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, have
made their way to Egypt, welcomed first as guests, then as guest laborers. They
have grown numerous, and threaten the balance of power. So the powerful lash
out, and deal harshly with them. Even in a foreign land, God hears their cries.
God burns with passion for their welfare, and calls forth a human response.
Moses, one who once lived among the ruling class of Egypt, now has a new
mission. Alternate text: Mark 12:26-27a
October 11: Hear, O Israel Deuteronomy 5:1-12, 6:4-9 ‒ Deuteronomy includes the second naming of the law,
the words that are intended to shape the life of God’s people. Out in the
wilderness, with no guideposts but God and God’s words, the people hear once
again the commandments. Alternate text: Mark 12:28-31
October 18: Ruth (New Life Band will lead worship) Ruth 1:1-17 ‒ The book of Ruth begins with desperation and moves on to tragedy.
As a result, Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi, are forced to make some risky
choices. Yet there is good news to be found, models of faith, welcome, and new
beginnings. There is Gospel here between the lines of a story where God does not
speak directly. Alternate text: Mark 3:33-35
October 25: David Anointed King 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 6:1-5; Psalm 150 ‒ After generations with no king but God, the
people of Israel clamored for a king. So God gave them Saul. In his time, Saul
turned away from God, and David was anointed king over Israel. After many
battles, David entered the city, the fortress of Zion, which became David’s city,
Jerusalem. The city was claimed with great celebration, with honor and glory
given to God. David returned the stolen Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, and
the whole city celebrated. David, and David’s line, did nothing small.
Alternate text: Mark 11:8-10
Attendance Stats
Sept 6 Sept 13 Sept 20 Sept 27 Average weekly attendance
8:30am 73 60 58 69
10:30am 76 92 95 81 Sept 2015 151
Week total 149 152 153 150 Sept 2014 152
elimpetaluma.org OCTOBER 2015 | PAGE 16
OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS
1 Diane Day 8 Philip Aldrich 18 Jim Power 27 Olin Forsberg
Gene McCloud Aidan Cooke 20 Ann DeJong Kevin Klemenok
Alice Roberti Liam Cooke 21 Florence Fadelli 28 Linden Gen
Emma Roberti Marilyn Dizikes 22 Paul Anderson Matthew Norman
2 Nick Eaton 12 Anita Flett Randal Clapham Johnny Turner
3 Paul Behringer 13 Charlotte Siemens Kim Svinth 30 Nancy Tieken
David Johnson Noelle Skanderson 24 Al Butler 31 Ciara Curley
4 Nicki Navarro Brittnee Witham 25 Doren Shaw Patty Curley
5 Tom Hoen 15 Joshua Warner Nam Sun Sin Bryan Petersen
7 Kristi Boylan Mo Yu 26 Ronan Curley Jacob Rodkin
16 Merry Martin Lou Navarro
17 Elyse Osman Judy Peterson
ELIM LUTHERAN CHURCH 504 Baker Street, Petaluma, CA 94952
Church Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9am-2pm
Office: 762-4081 / Fax: 773-7866 / www.elimpetaluma.org
Pastor Bill Wessner, Interim Pastor
330-207-7827 / [email protected]
Doris Widger, Business Administrator
762-4081 / [email protected]
Becky Schuerman Choi, Office Manager
762-4081 / [email protected]
Cathe Kiler, Music Director
415-898-1248 / [email protected]
Kevin Prime, Leadership Team President
481-1114 / [email protected]
Dan Widger, Call Committee Chair
Sarah Labberton, Faith Formation Coordinator &
High School Youth Leader
Kathy Fowler, Little Shepherd Preschool Director
Preschool: 769-0462 / [email protected]
Twitter: www.twitter.com/elimlutheran
Facebook: www.facebook.com/elimpetaluma
Living in God’s love, it is Elim’s mission
To invite all people
To grow in God
And to work together
To heal and transform the community
In Jesus’ name.
Elim Lutheran Church Come & See October 2015 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 7pm Waves of Grace (Sanctuary)
2
3 10:30am Crafters Brunch Bunch (Room 1, 2)
4 9:40am Morning Meditation (Fireside Room)
9:40am Confirmation 1 (Room 10)
9:40am Family Ministry Meeting with LT (side room of Fellowship Hall)
1-5pm Elim R3 work day
5 7:30pm Worship Team (Choir Room)
6 5pm Elim at Food Pantry (Lucchesi Park on McDowell)
5pm Women's Board Meeting (Fireside Rm)
7pm Bell Choir (sanctuary)
7pm Exploring the Story Bible Study (Choir Room)
7 5:30pm Chancel Choir (Choir Room)
6:30pm High School Youth Group (Sarah's office)
8 12pm Grace Friendship Circle (back of church)
7pm Waves of Grace (Sanctuary)
7pm Women of Faith & Fellowship (Fireside Room)
9 10
10:30am Crafters Brunch Bunch (Room 1, 2)
11
8am-12pm Fruits of the Harvest (Fellowship Hall)
9:40am Town Hall Meeting with LT (side room of Fellowship Hall)
12
13 12pm Esther Circle (Rosenthal, Day, McCloud)
2pm Finance Team Meeting
7pm Bell Choir (Nursery)
7pm Eagle Scout Court of Honor (Sanctuary)
7pm Exploring the Story Bible Study (Choir Room)
14 5:30pm Chancel Choir (Choir Room)
6:30pm High School Youth Group (Clue)
7pm Leadership Team Meeting (Fireside Room)
15 Source Deadline
5pm Elim's turn at the Westside Pantry
7pm Waves of Grace (Sanctuary)
16
6pm Wedding rehearsal
17
10am Comyns/Lindsey wedding
10:15am Healing Meditative Prayer sessions (office)
10:30am Crafters Brunch Bunch (Room 1, 2)
18 New Life Band performs at both services
9:40am Confirmation 1 (Room 10)
19 7pm Elizabeth Circle (Orner)
7:30pm Worship Team (Choir Room)
20
7pm Bell Choir (sanctuary)
7pm Exploring the Story Bible Study (Choir Room)
21
5:30-7pm New Life Band concert & dinner
22
7pm Waves of Grace (Sanctuary)
23 24
10:30am Crafters Brunch Bunch (Room 1, 2)
4pm High School Youth Group lock-in
25
Reformation Sunday
New Orleans forms & $100 deposit due
3pm R.C. Kohl Guitar Concert
26 7:30pm Worship Team (Choir Room)
27 7pm Exploring the Story Bible Study (Choir Room)
28 5:30pm Chancel Choir (Choir Room)
6:30pm High School Youth Group (Sarah's office)
7pm Leadership Team Meeting (Fireside Room)
29 7pm Festival Choir (Choir Room)
7pm Waves of Grace (Sanctuary)
30 31 Halloween! 10:30am Crafters Brunch Bunch (Room 2)
SUNDAY MORNING SCHEDULE
8:30am & 10:30am Worship
9:40-10:25am Faith Formation
8:20-11:40am Nursery open
SUNDAY FAITH FORMATION 9:40-10:25AM
Godly Play (Room 6): 3yrs-1st grade
ELIMentary Camp (Room 9): 2nd-4th grades
Adult Forum (Choir Room)