Winter Birthdays

What a wonderful occasion! We celebrate your life and all that God has done in the world through you! We give praise and ask for blessings on this next year.

“Watch over your children, O Lord, as their days increase; bless and guide them wherever they may be. Strengthen them when they stand; comfort them when discouraged or sorrowful; raise them up if they fall; and in their heart may your peace which passes understanding abide all the days of their life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

DeCEMBER BIRTHDAYS

1  Maxwell Miron,  Pauline Stahl

3  Jo Olsen

5  Brian Fehr,  Alexis King,  Peyton Long

6  Mark Donohue,  Lorraine Miller,  Craig Van Yahres

7  Sara Flatt, Christopher Himler, Thomas Webb

8  Jack Messaros, Jeffrey Nansteel, Dave Sonn

9  Lauren Maschmeyer, Douglas Miller, Jennifer Stackhouse, David Wood

10  Betty Clark,  Donna Kearns, Daniel Larcker

11  Andrew Derkacz, David Derkacz, Reid Gustafson, Maren Jeffery, Jacob Romeiser, Samuel Romeiser, Carly Wilson, Sydney Wilson

13  Beth Corio, Blair Long, Nicholas Sonn

14  Gary Ezekian

15  Cheryl Tomlinson

16  John Balog, James Clifton, Jillian Kostenbauder, Reese Southmayd

17  David Engstrom, Richard Mercier

18  Matthew Becker, Carol Reilly, Arla Cain

20  Bob Romeiser

21  Robert Gay, Laura Heintzelman

22  Karen Pecora, Jessica Tinneny

24  Peter Long,

25  Carol Miller, Tara Owens

27  Christine Feaster, Brendan Wahlers

28  Rick Koup, Laura Reed, Don Wood

29  Evelyn Mueller, Matthew Henry

30  Peter Mueller, Pr. Mycah McNett

31  Konner Barlow, Stephen Heid

JANUARY BIRTHDAYS

1  Olga Scheitlin, Pam Schlender-Youngblood

2  Kay Balabon

3  Susan Saxer, David Webb

4  Sheila Dahl, Sharon Hickey

4  Kara Seaton, David Donohue

5  Megan Fantoni, Lillian McKeon

6  Aimee Buttenbaum, John Kostenbauder

7  Jennifer Bailer, Sophia Fanelli, Nina Haracz, Max Kelly, Muriel Loose, January Mascaro

8  Dirk Boden, Hunter Robie, Gayle Schlegel

9  Matthew Klepfer, Kate Shickel

10  Bonnie Marziani, Rebecca Schmidt, Georgia Southmayd

11  Claire Luce, Mark Schlegel

12  Bill Baver

13  Barbara Cloonan

14  James Flatt

15  Philip Gilbert, Dave Satterfield

16  Maryann Loose, Mark Stanisz

18  Natalie Haracz, Joyce Million

19  Jennifer Cowperthwait, Jonathan Reed,, Sue Russo

20  Tessa Carl, Matthew Hendrickson, Barbara Kupp, Christine Voigt

21  Nicholas Adams, Matthew Adams, Debra Bernier, Judy Wry

22  Dominick Pecora

23  Stephen Hendrickson, Grace McGinness, Emory Owens

24  Anne Haracz, Douglas Hendrickson

24  David Leighton, Elise Mercier, Joni Praplaski

26  Eric DiPietro, Luis Gomez, Leo Fuchs

29  Trey Milby, Rod Olsen

30  Katie Cullum, Danielle Feinberg, Jack Lewis, James Shuttlesworth

31  Susan Connors

February BIRTHDAYS

2  Louis Bowers, Robert Gay, Maureen Lok, Matthew Long, Jim Ondrey, Olivia Corio

3  Kristin Shuttlesworth

4 Robby Gilbert, Cindy Schulz

5  Susan Adams, David Lueders, Jr., Wendy Mercier, Michael Robie

6  Philipp Ziegler

7  Riley Baver, Ned d'Entremont, Melissa Fanelli, Kendall Kemm

8  Anna Mueller, Monica Staniz, Noah Rickards

9  Madison Miller

10  Carter Godfrey, Brynne Henry, John Stover, Kathy Wells

11  Lindsay Hanifan, Thelma Jacks, Tom Powell

12  Grace Etzweiler, Anna Freitag, James Hendrickson, Doug Jones

13  Mallory Flickinger, Gordon Macomber, Christian Miller

14  Heidi Romeiser, Christopher Pecora

15  Geoff Southmayd

16  Jessica Wood

17  Adrianna Polizzi

18  Frank Polizzi, Michael Staniz

19  Justin Wright

20  Michael McIlvaine, Casey Himler

21  Roberta Barnett, Cody Vermillion

22  Lukas Littleton, Karen Maschmeyer

23  Austin Himler, Shaun Snyders

24  Greg Binner, Sammy Carter, Liz Harmon, Mason Miller, Annie Webb, Miles Miron

25  Kathy Houck, Cathie Hozinez, Scott Youngblood

27  Kristen Conrad

28  Christine Bender, Phil Cook, Tom Koester, Garrett Ricci, Susan Smith

Thank God for Madison

Baptism is a joyous event! Through this sacrament, God makes us members of the community of faith, the Church; grants forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life. At Saint Luke, children and infants are brought by parents or guardians who promise to raise them in the faith and our church family promises to support them in this important work.

We are so excited to celebrate the recent baptism of Madison McKeon. On October 22, Saint Luke joined alongside parents, Jeremy Mckeon and Alice Berry, as they baptized their adorable baby Madison.

She was also surrounded by love shown by her big sister Lillian and sponsors, Laura Berry White and Doug Christenson. It was a beautiful morning of celebration with family and friends. As you can see, Madison was full of smiles with Pastor Matt.

Madison and her family have been attending Saint Luke for about a year. They found their way to us thanks to a kind referral by Saint Mark’s in Conshohocken. They also attend Beautiful Beginnings Daycare, located right in the building. Their favorite part of Saint Luke is how accepting and supportive everyone is.

Next time you see Jeremy, Alice, Lillian and Madison around be sure to say hello and celebrate with them!

Pastor Mycah's Ordination & Installation

Pastor Mycah was ordained by Patricia Davenport, Bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to the ministry of Word and Sacrament and was installed as pastor of Saint Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church, Devon on October 14.

We learned many things during the ordination and installation service, including that Pastor Mycah is now a “Dungeon Master Pastor,” an aficionado of the Dungeon and Dragons role playing game.

As preacher Pastor Lauren Eanes, senior pastor at Muhlenberg Lutheran Church in Harrisonburg, Va., (Pastor Mycah’s home congregation) tells the story, her 12-year-old step son was in the other room with youth leader, Mycah, and she jumped at the chance to play Dungeons and Dragons with him. It was there that she engaged with Pastor Eanes’ step son.

“Mycah invites all of God’s people to explore Christianity and to live us into this great story. Our story today is how a Dungeon Master becomes a Pastor,” she said.

Pastor Eanes said there are many parallels between being a Dungeon Master and a Pastor including the ability to communicate effectively. This drew a laugh from the many well-wishers, family members, clergy, and Saint Luke members in attendance. A Dungeon Master and a pastor invite people to join them on the journey “to explore their identity and find their place in the story.”

As a pastor, you remind people that there is good in the world and it’s worth fighting for. You get to embrace collaboration and community, imagination, creativity, and hope. “And, you embody the message that, ultimately, the story is going to keep on going. It’s not about winning or losing, but inviting, inviting everyone, and keeping everyone at the table,” Pastor Eanes said.

As Pastor Eanes said, Pastor Dungeon Master Mycah has invited us into an adventure. The campaign we’re told in the Gospel of John (John 21: 15-17) is on a beach on the Sea of Tiberias. Simon Peter has been in this story with Jesus from the beginning. You are Simon, son of John, and you are to be called Peter.

From John 21: When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt, because he said to the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.”

Pastor Eanes said that Jesus knew that Peter loved him, but he wanted to make sure that Peter knew. “Jesus invites us to proclaim who we are with boldness. I am grateful for the Dungeon Master Pastor. And, Dungeon Master Pastor Mycah reminds us of who we are and where we fit into the story. She knows from the Master sheet, that we are all beloved children of God. Saint Luke, you are so lucky to have Mycah. Mycah, keep inviting us into the story. Help us to find our place in the story and point us to the one who is love.”

““Overwhelming love – that’s what we get to share as a faithful community and that’s how I experienced my ordination and installation as pastor at Saint Luke!”

— Pastor Mycah McNett

Reflecting back on the special day, Pastor Mycah shared, “Overwhelming love – that’s what we get to share as a faithful community and that’s how I experienced my ordination and installation as pastor at Saint Luke! I loved seeing so many folks from different eras of my faith life, and notes sent to me from my childhood church in Washington state, the folks from the church my mom still attends, my home pastor coming here to preach, the whole company of Pennsylvanians who have helped shape me during seminary (internship supervisors, church members from the area), and of course my family.” She went on to explain, “The greatest thing I get to do as a pastor is share Christ’s love with everyone, and it’s a blessing to receive that love from so many folks. I can’t wait to see where “God is on the Move” (as the bookmarks that Em Fowler made for the occasion!) at Saint Luke and our ministry together!”

The Call

Hear the whisper of the spirit calling you.

As the wind, the mountains, the stars and the waters of the sea

carry you and provide you strength.

For the new journey you enter into with God’s love and care.

As we grow as one interconnected people serving one another with humility.

May you shepherd as well with a certain mind and presence.

Letting grace in, welcoming you, no exceptions.

-A Prayer for Mycah From Jodi Cunniffe and the Call Committee

All Can Rejoice

Saint Luke’s website includes a statement: “All Are Welcome. No Exceptions.” This value is demonstrated joyfully during our monthly Rejoicing Spirits services. This service provides an opportunity for people with special needs to be warmly welcomed into a church service where they can shout, sing, jump up and down, laugh, play instruments, and share prayer requests. Their spiritual growth is nourished in a relaxed, friendly service. It’s an opportunity where the individuals, their family, friends, and staff experience God’s love in a judgement-free zone.

People with special needs have few opportunities to become a part of their community. Physical differences and restrictions may interfere with building friendships. Developmental delays may make those who are unfamiliar with someone facing those challenges, uncomfortable. Our Rejoicing Spirits service provides an inclusive, welcoming service. It is a spiritually nourishing service where we help people feel loved, welcomed, and a part of our Saint Luke community.

The Binner Family

Saint Luke began Rejoicing Spirts shortly after we joined the congregation. Our son, Greg, is multiply disabled. He can be loud when he’s excited….and he is always excited to be in church! We sit in the back of church and use Greg’s wheelchair when he attends regular church services. His wheelchair helps Greg follow the cadence of a regular service and allows him to participate without being distracting. It’s 100% different with Rejoicing Spirits. We do not use Greg’s wheelchair for this service. He literally runs into the church yelling “hi” and whooping it up with sheer joy. This service affords him the freedom to be himself. As Greg’s parents, it means the world to us that Greg can attend a service where he can participate with unencumbered joy. God’s love is reflected in this joy and in the acceptance he receives from our Saint Luke community.

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Interested in experiencing this joyful service yourself? We gather for a worship service on the fourth Sunday of every month at 4:00 pm. Think of it as the fourth at four! All are welcome. No exceptions.

Giving with Power

When I arrived at Saint Luke on August 7, I had planned to donate blood as I usually do (this was my 41st donation!).

I had heard that there was going to be a special guest at Saint Luke donating blood that day (Channel 6 Action News Meteorologist Adam Joseph), so there were extra, top-level American Red Cross officials there.

I was called to the table to take my vitals (blood pressure, iron levels, and temperature) and the technician said she saw I was a regular blood donor and had I ever considered being a Power Red donor. A Power Red donation is similar to a whole blood donation, except a special machine is used to allow the donor to safely donate two units of red blood cells during one donation while returning your plasma and platelets to you. During a Power Red donation, blood is drawn from one arm through an automated process. The machine separates and collects two units of red cells and then safely returns the remaining blood components, along with some saline, back to you through the same arm.

She said it would take 20 extra minutes to complete this type of donation. I regularly donate blood and donate at Saint Luke when I can. I had heard mixed reviews about Power Red donations, though: I’d feel wonderful. It takes longer. If you do one Power Red donation, you’ll do it again.

Ok, I did it with mixed feelings, however, I don’t regret my decision. I had some queasy feelings as the machine returned my plasma, platelets, and some saline back into my system, but other than that, the donation was no different than a regular blood donation.

“There are places all around the region to donate and your donation matters. It is a small way to live out your faith and make an impact in the lives of others in our community. ”

I’m going to donate again in December. Might I invite you to donate blood, too? Here’s the schedule at Saint Luke for donating blood, as well as the general American Red Cross Blood Donation page, if you are unable to give at Saint Luke.

Remembering Loved Ones

Saint Luke has always been fortunate to have a large, lovely piece of property in a busy part of the main line. As part of the reconstruction project after our 2003 fire, we created an attractive, new garden on the Conestoga roadside of the property.

There had been a few people over the years who interred cremated remains in a small area between the sanctuary and Schlack Hall. When Schlack Hall had to be demolished and rebuilt, a group of Saint Lukans began to prepare a more fitting and permanent place for burials here. Ron Kostka and Maggie Kraegel chaired the committee, with members Barbara Kostka, Dave Herbster, Barbara Sweatlock, and Larry Williams.

Besides designing a lovely garden, the committee was careful to supervise the preservation of the holy ground where some people were interred. That part of the garden was returned to the center of the landscaped area, beneath the cross. The brick wall has niches with a stone cover where the names of the people interred there are carved. There are 144 niches where an urn can be interred. Along the front of the wall are 40 ground niches with granite headstones where an urn can be buried. The central area under the cross is where comingled cremains are buried. Bronze plaques on the wall display the names of those loved ones. The current cost of interment is $1300.00 for the site plus $350.00 for garden maintenance.

The Remembrance Garden, outside the east wall of the sanctuary, was created for people who were interred or will be interred in another location and wish to be remembered at St Luke. Wall plaques on either side of the baptismal window have been installed. The current cost for each nameplate is $375.

If you or a loved one are interested in being included in either garden, please contact Barbara Kostka (610-296-0749) or the Saint Luke office (610-688-0122) with questions.

A Faith-Fueled Adventure: ELCA Youth Gathering

Get ready for a transformative journey as we gear up for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in the vibrant city of New Orleans! Every three years, thousands of Lutheran youth from all corners of the nation converge for a week-long experience that transcends the ordinary—a week that shapes faith, forges friendships, and ignites a passion for service.

Pastor Mycah McNett encapsulates the essence of this Gathering, describing it as a place where "30,000 strangers descend on New Orleans, leaving ready to follow Christ wherever we're sent." It's a crucible of faith where connections are made, and a sense of purpose is discovered.

Anna Donohue, a previous student participant, reflects on the unique camaraderie: "It was such a great opportunity to bond with the other kids from my church in an organic environment. The energy is electric, and you can't help but feel the positive impact you leave on the community because the community leaves the same lasting impact on you!" This testimonial echos the sentiments of countless young people whose lives have been irrevocably changed by this profound experience.

Another meaningful aspect of the Youth Gathering is the opportunity to participate in service projects together. Jodi Donohue, an adult leader, highlights the impactful service aspect: "The most meaningful part of the gathering for me was our service day. We built raised garden beds in an economically challenged neighborhood, enriching the community with access to fresh produce. The impact was beyond our expectations!" Meredith Webb participated as a student and shared that to her the most meaningful part was this community engagement! She explained, “As a group we went to a community garden that was trying to combat the food desert issues that Houston has. It opened my eyes to issues I had no idea that people were facing within America.”

Lorraine Miller, an adult leader, shares the sense of unity felt among Lutheran youth: "The best part of the gathering was the feeling of unity among Lutheran youths—the presenters sharing their faith statements and the concerts at night with the entirety of all the youth was so inspiring and faith-filled." Pastor Mycah also spoke to the relationships that are built saying, “The Youth Gathering is a place where we get to gather with a ton of other Lutheran youth from around the country. We get to build faithful friendships – both in our own group and with all the strangers who show up to the Gathering.”

Past student participant Andrew Valentine felt similar. He shared, “For me, it was nice to get closer not only with people who I was already close with but to get to know more of adults around me at church and strengthen my faith in a fun way.”

For those parents and students on the fence, unsure if they should attend, Jodi Donohue addressed the prospective attendees: "To a teen considering going next year, you have the opportunity to meet people and have enriching experiences in a fun environment, and experience the power of thousands of people sharing their love of Christ and community." Lorraine Miller echoes this sentiment: "All youth should go—it is well worth it!! You will bond with your fellow youth and will participate in a service project for the community. You will learn a lot and come back changed for the better. You will connect your faith with your everyday life and will feel more connected to Saint Luke too!"

Meredith Webb knows what it is like being a student contemplating attending. Her advice to other teenagers is to consider this: “There are so many benefits to going on the gathering. When I went, I wasn't in a place in my faith journey in which going to church excited me. But after going on the gathering I made so many meaningful connections and insights that I had a deeper appreciation for the community at Saint Luke. Additionally, it became an experience I was able to share at college interviews when asked about community service involvements.” The benefits are endless!

Embark on this spiritual journey with us—create memories that will resonate in your heart forever. Reach out to Pastor Mycah if you are interested in attending or join her at the upcoming informational meeting on November 26. May the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering be a beacon of inspiration and growth for our students!

No Hunger in Our Neighborhood

In the heart of our community, Saint Luke has been a beacon of hope for over a decade, tirelessly serving the needs of our neighbors in collaboration with the Great Valley Food Cupboard. We're excited to celebrate this remarkable partnership, which has grown stronger and more meaningful year after year.

Carol Claypoole, the dedicated coordinator of the Great Valley Food Cupboard, expressed her gratitude, saying, "We are serving over 200 families, many of whom are refugees from Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus. We began the cupboard in 2012, and Saint Luke has been assisting us all that time. We are so grateful for your support."

Every Tuesday, the Great Valley Food Cupboard distributes bags of essential food items to those in need. These bags contain a variety of items, including cereal, juice, pasta, pasta sauce, peanut butter, jelly, crackers, soup, tuna, granola bars, and cookies. Carol emphasized, "We always need these items to ensure that we can continue to support our community effectively. Additionally, we greatly appreciate snacks for kids, as they can be particularly reassuring for families in challenging times. We also provide cleaning supplies, paper goods, and personal care items to help our neighbors maintain their dignity and well-being."

The commitment of Saint Luke Church extends beyond providing for human needs; they also assist with pet food needs. Carol emphasized that they always need cat and dog food to ensure that our furry friends are not forgotten during tough times.

The Great Valley Food Cupboard is open every Tuesday from 11 AM to 2 PM, ensuring accessibility to working families, and on the second Wednesday evening of each month from 6 PM to 8 PM. This extended schedule reflects the dedication of Saint Luke Church and the Great Valley Food Cupboard to be a consistent and reliable source of support for those in need.

Over the years, involvement has looked differently. Joanne Sonn, a social ministry coordinator at Saint Luke shared, “During Covid it was more important that we give them cash and gift cards to local restaurants for take out. Then as we got “back to normal” we started collecting canned goods and food again with food drives.” She went on to share that through regular conversation with Carol, they could identify needs and step in to help. Joann went on to explain, “This past summer we focused on kids being home from school and losing their free lunches and we provided food to parents specifically for their kids.  Members of the congregation generously packed up breakfasts and lunches for 4 families GVFC!.”

This remarkable partnership between Saint Luke Church and the Great Valley Food Cupboard is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and collaboration. As we celebrate a decade of service, let us recommit to supporting our neighbors in their times of need, recognizing that together, we can reach our dream of there being no hunger in our neighborhood.

Designed to Thrive

What do you love about your life right now? When was the last time you focused on nurturing your spirit and what that means for you?  In our busy lives we focus a great deal on building our careers, staying physically fit, and making sure that our day-to-day needs are met, but when was the last time you thought about taking care of your spirit?  

These are several of the questions we focused on in the recent SHAPE presentation, talking about how focusing on our spiritual lives can help us to thrive. One of the best ways to make this happen is by connecting with Saint. Luke, its members, and helping to build the people foundation that is the church. Saint Luke’s volunteer assessment, SHAPE, can help each of us discern where we might find a good fit for our interests, values, skills, and aptitudes.

Each of us has God-given talents and interests, and when we use these to support the work of the church it enhances our lives and the lives of those around us. Through prayer, attending worship, and connecting with others at St. Luke, we can find our place and contribute to the life of the church.

If you have questions about volunteering at Saint Luke, and finding your place here, please email Fran Arvan or say hello to her at worship.

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“The way that you are wired is not an accident. Hidden within you is a unique gift that God wants to share with the world in need. ”

A few unique ways that people are thriving, using their unique gifts and interests to contribute to the work God is doing in our community…

• A baker shared their talent to make delicious treats for Feat Incarnate’s dinner served to the HIV/AIDS community in Philadelphia.

• An artist handed out doodles as reminders of God’s love and acceptance at Pride Fest, reminding the LGBTQIA community that at Saint Luke, all are welcome. No exceptions.

• Writers shared their reflections in blog posts, devotionals, and newsletters, encouraging others in their spiritual journey who may never ever step through our doors.

• Photographers captured smiles, giving our community a glimpse of the excitement and vibrant life of our congregation on social media.

• Gardeners lent their green thumbs and handymen brought their toolbelts to help keep our property looking beautiful and welcoming to those that enter our doors.

Fall Birthdays

Happy Birthday to you! We praise God for your and the gift that you are to the world.

God of all creation, we offer you grateful praise for the gift of life. Hear the prayers for these servants, who recall today the day of their birth and rejoice in your gifts of life and love, family and friends. Bless them with your presence and surround them with your love, that they may enjoy many happy years, all of them pleasing to you. We ask this through Christ our savior. Amen.

-As printed in the United Methodist Book of Worship

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September Birthdays

2 Daniel Seaton

4 Meghan Barlow

5 Ethan Miller, Andrew Forester, Lauren Cass, Eric Boden

6 Amy Bernier, Madeleine Williams-Koester, Henry Smith

7 Beth Troutman, Bruce Willbrant, Abigail Etzweiler

8 Alexandra Flatt, Taylor Flatt

9 Hannah Pretz, Steven Praplaski

10 Paula Rothermel, Jim Redmond

11 Katelyn Troutman, Lillian Schlosser

12 Torey Lenker

13 Kyle Messaros, Janice Baugher

14 James Nelson

15 Donna Nansteel, Brendan Miller, Ryan McGinness

16 Dylan Feaster, Zach Feaster, Jess Littleton

17 Halley Henry, Carl Ippoliti, Leighton Corio, Kennedy Corio

18 Tom Hickey, Adam Klepfer

19 Mildred Ericson, Chris Lewis

20 George Hubley

21 Rod Wright, Sue Donohue

22 Kathie Herbster, Ron Spangler, Tyler Wright, Madison Barlow

24 Cliff Madden

25 Morgan Miller, Mick Schlegel, Scott Verrei, Dana Lok, Hannah Baugher

26 Robert Smith, Wayne Tomlinson, Sherri Moir, Stefanie DiPrinzio

28 Juliana Clifton, Randy Freitag

29 Maureen McGinness

30 Maggie Kraegel, Sharon Humble, Kaylin Boschi, Thor Bowers

October Birthdays

1 Catherine Clifton, Taia DiPrinzio

2 Michelle Squitieri, Helen Squitieri, Jennifer Nansteel, Peyton Quinn, Eleanor Jenkins

3 Trean Bock, Katherine Bauman, Travis Jones, Carter Miller

6 Diane Herbert, Guy Wilson

7 Natalie Moir, Tim Connors

8 Chris Roithmayr, Eva Hozinez

9 Rowan McLaughlin, Ruth Lehnen

10 Elizabeth DeBerardinis, Taylor Heron

11 Diane Sandvik

12 Ann Fehr, Scott Adams, Olivia Fanelli

13 Paige Skelly, Fran Arvan, Sparky Lok, Benjamin Loos, Adam Freitag

14 Ricka Jenkins, Irene Holsclaw

15 James Kenyon, John Kelly

16 Tom Kupp

17 Karen Erdman, Mason Godfrey

18 Carol DeVol, Amanda Heintzelman, Kristen Gay, Mia Leighton, Sam Polizzi, Frank Polizzi

19 Andrew Shine, John Shine, Charlotte MacClay

21 Gillian Heckert-Mitchell, Robin Heid

23 Diane Sonnenberg, Anna Donohue, Donna Daly, Michael Sklar, Jami Godfrey

25 Catherine Buttenbaum, Julia Madden, Katharine Gay, Philip Valentine

26 Lily Horan, Dan Winters

28 Isabella Maloskey

29 Nancy Wood, Robert White

31 Irene Boden, Barbara Kostka

November Birthdays

1 Brooke Skelly, Caleb Reed

4 Jane Hagerty, Grace Lewis

5 Em Fowler Johnston

6 Bryce DiPrinzio, Francesca Green, Heather Wilson

7 Laura Kostenbauder

7 Meredith Webb, Katherine Moir, Paul Seaton

8 Samantha Menapace, Hailey Rittenhouse

9 Sara Williams, Elaine Loose

10 James Arvan, Caitlin Kupp, Chris Kupp

11 James Connors, Tracy Burns

12 Diane DiGiovanni, John Hammerschmidt, Robert Squitieri, Jillian Stevens, Allison Troutman,

14 Lauren Baxter

15 Jessica Cunningham, Bill Milby, Ronald Harmon

16 Joni King, Scott Scheirer, Jennifer Roessler

17 Mary Jane Verrei, Pete Roithmayr

18 Leif Bowers

19 Jennie Warren, Keely McClay, Jenna McClay, Erin McClay

20 Nicole Dillon, Nicholas Marziani, Kate Forester, Lydon MacClay

21 Andrew Loose, Ewen DiSciascio

26 Lyn Ann Mueller, Liam McLaughlin, Jim Cain

27 Jessica Long, Conor Whitehead

28 Sally Clifton, Nancy Worst, Marcie Reber

30 Jayne Dillon

New Members & Old Friends

On July 16th, we were delighted to welcome several new members to our Saint Luke Lutheran Church community. Each individual brings a unique story and journey of faith, and we are thrilled to have them join our congregation.

We are thrilled to introduce and highlight each person, and encourage everyone to say hello to them next time you are around Saint Luke.

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Lauren Baxter

Moving to our area approximately nine months ago, Lauren came to Saint Luke with a desire to find an inclusive church that she could call home. We are honored that she chose us, and we eagerly welcome her into our family. She is looking forward to “a greater relationship with God and finding a family/home within Saint Luke.” As Lauren seeks to deepen her relationship with God, we hope to be the place where she discovers the love and belonging she has been searching for.

Mary Connelley

For the past 12 years, Mary has graced us with her presence and regular attendance at Saint Luke. Seeking a supportive and caring community, she found solace and warmth within our congregation. Mary's connection to her family, including her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren who also attend (Angie & Frank Polizzi), adds an extra layer of meaning to her worship experience. We are grateful to have her as an active member, involved in events like Ruth Circle, Book Club, and the Altar Guild.

Ruth Lehnen

She came to Saint Luke with her daughter, Laura and has been worshipping with us for almost 4 years. She shared, “I have found so much love and compassion here and I hope to be able to continue to grow and learn.” She participated in Pins and Needles and also of Ruth's Circle and has made numerous friends here during the time she’s been worshiping here.

Robert Smith

We remember Robert's joyous wedding here at Saint Luke a few summers ago. Alongside his wife Jennifer, Robert has been attending worship services, and we are excited to accompany him as he continues his faith journey with our community. As he seeks increased serenity and peace, we stand ready to support and nurture him in his spiritual growth.

Jessica Lee Tinneny

A familiar face around Saint Luke, Jessica has been an active participant in various activities, including Table Talk, Needles & Pins, and the choir! She was drawn to the genuine friendliness and people-centered approach that our church embodies. Jessica found a place where people can be their authentic self without fear of judgment or exclusion. We celebrate her commitment to our community and her dedication to building a loving and inclusive environment for all.

As Saint Luke Lutheran Church, we are honored and humbled by the faith and trust these new members have placed in our community. We believe that every individual's unique journey enriches the fabric of our congregation, making us stronger and more united in our mission to spread love, compassion, and acceptance. Let us extend our warmest greetings to Robert, Ruth, Lauren, Jessica, and Mary as they embark on this new chapter of their spiritual lives with us. Together, we will continue to grow in faith and serve as beacons of hope in the world around us.

Behind the Scenes with Councilor Harley Sonn

Meet Dave Sonn, aka Harley, our fantastic new Councilor of Communications and Evangelism at Saint Luke Lutheran Church. Get ready for some exciting times ahead as Harley brings his experience in communication and marketing to amp up our outreach efforts! When he first found Saint Luke, it just felt like home and we are so glad that his faith journey has brought him to our community here. As we warmly welcome Harley to his new role, we are so appreciative of his energy, insight, and ideas.

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Tell us a bit about yourself & your family?

My name is Dave Sonn. You may know me as Harley. Harley-David-Sonn. Get it? A nickname since age 16. For business, legal matters, and my siblings, I’m Dave or David. When in friendly waters, I am Harley. I have been appointed Counselor of Communications and that’s why my story is taking up this space. I technically head up Evangelism too but as I told Bill Beaver when he came tapping, not my strong suit. Open to help here.

I’ve been married only once – to the wonderful, beautiful woman, Joanne, the love of my life. Born Joanne Hartzell, she is a lifelong Lutheran, as well as a lifelong volunteer. She is the model for donating her time for getting good done. I am lucky. Joanne is also a realtor and goes too above and beyond for her clients, in my opinion. Shameless plug? Maybe.

We have lived in Wayne since 2005 with our two sons that have both surpassed my 6 foot stature. Nicholas, 20, is going into his sophomore year at Pitt as a finance major. Evan, soon to be 17, will enter his junior year at ‘Stoga and was baptized at Saint Luke. They have both grown up in this church, attending worship, Sunday school, and countless events. We are so very lucky to have healthy, strong boys who are willing to give back. Rounding out the family is Bailey, the sweetest Double Doodle ever. She lays by me every day as I work from home. Photo included.

What initially drew you to our church community?

Joanne, Nicholas, and I moved to Wayne from Narberth where we were members of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. We began looking at area churches but none felt like the right fit. As we looked and attended Saint Luke, we saw the kindness of this church through its welcoming members. It was not pretentious. It was not judgy. It just felt right. Joanne and I do not have family in the very immediate area which is tough when raising kids. We saw Saint Luke as potentially our local family and soon became members.

What made you decide to get involved at a deeper level by joining the council?

I was asked to take on the role of Counselor of Communications since my degree is in communications, I’ve worked in the advertising and graphics field for years, and I own and operate a digital marketing agency currently. I believe everyone can contribute in their own way and this was my opportunity to give back.

Tell us a bit about your background and how your faith journey has shaped your life so far. 

I was born in the northeast corner of Pennsylvania in a very small town and was raised Catholic. I attended Catholic school from grades 1 through 8, mostly taught by nuns. Seeing a classmate’s knuckles smacked by a ruler was not uncommon. I attended mass regularly and while the priests were nice, the sermons were often a bit harsh by today’s standards. Father Cappelloni pounding on the pulpit is a vivid memory. I do have very positive memories too and while in high school I worked for the Church, cleaning the churches and school and digging graves. It was a good job in a small town. After college, I drifted away from attending church as many do.  

Fast forward to getting married and having two little boys. The church community and the experiences it brought was very important to Joanne and me. Through the Lutheran Church I learned of a kinder, gentler community and it helped me teach my boys of the greater good and the role we all play.

What specific skills or experiences do you bring to the council that you believe will be valuable in serving our church community?

I know digital marketing, social media, communications, and business. I hire and direct people so I understand how to form and lead teams. I also learned that micromanaging isn’t good for anyone if you want a positive and better outcome for all. I’m hopeful I can provide insight and advice to those doing communications, the connecting, and the work of growing the church.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and how would you use it to benefit our church & community?

Who doesn’t want to fly?!? Right? And if I can double down, please throw in some super human strength. DC could have quit after Superman. With these powers, John Muir and I could do some real damage, I mean construction, at ASP. John Menapace would get an incredible show for the children at Gemma. Deliveries to the area foodbanks and families who need nutrition, supplies, and medicine would be faster than ever. I could be a loaner to Mikanjuni who I could help in countless ways. Don’t worry, I’d occasionally help you too, Robbie.

Could you share a memorable moment or experience that has deepened your connection with God or strengthened your faith?

When my best friend unexpectedly died of a heart attack, I was in a bad place. I remember coming to Saint Luke, sitting in the pew trying to make sense of it and what life moving forward without him looked like. I was really sad. I will never forget being consoled by Pastor Matt. There is no doubt that he, and being at the safe, kind place of Saint Luke helped me through. God worked through them for me.

What are some ideas, passions or initiatives you would like to explore or implement as a council member?

It’s not news to anyone that we need to grow the church. Therefore, a strong social media presence boosted by paid advertising to reach more people than ever, in more meaningful ways with unique messaging is something I’d like to institute. Additionally, I know the church website could be working harder and better to promote growth. I have ideas for this as well. For the record, I did try to champion a new digital sign outside of the church to better deliver the inspirational messages of the current sign, while also communicating Saint Luke events and drawing more people in, literally. I researched and learned of the successes and benefits other churches have achieved. Sadly, the township said no digital signs.

Outside of your involvement with the church, what are some of your hobbies or interests?

You likely won’t see me at worship in the summer and fall months because my son, Evan, plays very competitive, travel baseball. I helped build the organization and I handle the business side, as well as analytics. A true labor of love that I know comes to an end so I never miss a game. Additionally, Joanne and I like to go to concerts, especially the old acts that we missed in their prime. On tap for August is Guns & Roses and our first ever Springsteen show. On a different front, I love going to the gym for both the mental & physical benefits. I’ve been a member somewhere from age 18 and hopefully to the end. It has helped me do other things I enjoy better, such as skiing and golf.

What is one of your favorite Saint Luke memories so far?

I don’t have a specific memory but instead a favorite vibe. I feel peace at Saint Luke. I see kindness. I see a better world. Worship is an hour of unplugging from the crazy. It makes me feel good.

Meet Pastor Mycah

It was with great excitement that Saint Luke announced the call of Pastor Mycah McNett to serve as our pastor alongside lead pastor Matt Staniz! This call—extended by a vote of the congregation at a special meeting on July 30, 2023 and accepted by Pastor McNett—fills a 3.5 year vacancy on the pastoral leadership team at Saint Luke. Prior to Pastor Mycah McNett being called to Saint Luke, there was a brief introduction about her. Pastor Mycah took some additional time as she settles in at Saint Luke to answer some questions so we can all get to know her better.

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Who is Pastor Mycah McNett?

Trivia Aficionado

Oh, we love trivia! My spouse, Alyssa, and I really enjoy playing trivia - and we play almost every week locally! We joke that much of our local exploration or further travel, stopping into museums and historic sites along the way, is all to study up for the next Quizzo game.

Alyssa also writes and hosts a weekly trivia game in Exton, and has been doing so for the past two years. We have been playing weekly trivia for almost the entire five-plus years we have been together and we find that it has really solidified our teamwork abilities. 

Curious Explorer

Alyssa and I really enjoy nature, but we’re not too athletic (no intense hiking or rock climbing for us right now!). If we have a free Saturday, we often drive down to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and walk along the boardwalk, or find a local national or state park we haven’t yet visited and explore. I find nature incredibly restorative and one of my favorite ways to connect with God.

Cat Paw-rent

Our three cats are Minnie, Clio, and Clem. We adopted Minnie and Clio when Pastor Susan Lynch died. They are about 11 years old and now that a year has passed, we safely feel like they have accepted us as their new owners. We have had Clem since she was a kitten and she's about eight years old now. She moved with us from Virginia. All three cats are very affectionate and playful.

Enthusiastic Minister

I think the ministries I will be most likely be involved in right out of the gate were strongly named in the job description for the second pastor called to Saint Luke. I look forward to partnering with the Sunday School Faith Formation Team, and more ministries as I get settled in. I really look forward to working with everyone at Saint Luke and getting to know folks and praying for each person I meet. I also am excited to work alongside Pastor Matt.

THOUGHTFUL Big Sister

I’m really, very much a big sister! My siblings are entering the 8th and 9th grades this year. My mom and step-dad live in the Washington D.C. area, and we love to get together with them often. My mom and I moved to the DC area from just north of Seattle, Washington when I was 13 years old to be near my step-dad and his family.

I often joke that my brother and sister keep me young by telling me about the latest TikTok trend or Internet joke, and I cannot believe how quickly they are growing up. They also remind me how busy life is for families, and how tough it can be to connect with the church. 

Be sure to say hello to Pastor Mycah next time you are at Saint Luke and welcome her to our community. She can be reached via email or by calling the church office.

Blooms: Ministry with Flowers, Decor & More

Beauty, joy, and celebration are important parts of our worship space and one way we experience them is through the art of flower arrangements. For decades, we were fortunate to have the Cowan brothers from Cowan's Flowers supply our altar flowers at a discount, enriching our worship experience. However, with their retirement, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to them and welcome our new partner, StudioFlora, located at 712 E. Lancaster Ave., Berwyn. The flowers from StudioFlora now grace our sanctuary, and we invite you to visit their shop and acknowledge the role they play in enhancing our worship.

At Saint Luke, flowers are a significant part of our worship tradition. They create a beautiful focal point in our sanctuary, adding to the ambiance of celebration and reflection. We have flowers weekly, with the exception of Christmas, Sundays in Lent, and Easter. For these special occasions, we rely on generous donations from our congregational members to buy flowering plants for the church, which they can then take home after the services. It is a wonderful tradition and way to bring another part of your worship experience home with you on those holidays.

Nancy Shaw, Councilor of Worship & Music shared, “The Sanctuary is a place of celebration, reflection and worship. Beautifying the space with flowers provides joy, response, and a lovely focal point.” Saint Luke’s decorating team knows this to be true and makes it their mission to create a beautiful space for worshippers to enjoy, This team of dedicated volunteers will also ensure that the flowers are distributed after Sunday worship. They will take the flowers out of the vases and arrange them in smaller plastic bags for people to take home. Moreover, they will be on the look out for opportunities to share flowers with guests, individuals celebrating special occasions like baptisms, and anyone who requests them for members and friends who can't make it to church.

If you have a passion for flowers, a love for beautifying spaces, or simply want to contribute to our worship experience in a meaningful way, the Decorating Team at Saint Luke is the place for you! Your efforts will not only bring joy to others but also create a sense of fulfillment and purpose within yourself. Volunteers get to help beautify the sanctuary for our special services throughout the year, too. Whether it's Christmas, Lent, Easter, Pentecost, or Christmas in July, our team has the chance to contribute to the uplifting atmosphere of these festive celebrations, using their creativity as an act of worship. Additionally, volunteers do not have to worry about being available for all occasions, but rather can participate in the events that suit their schedule.

To become a part of this wonderful team or learn more, reach out to us and let us know you'd like to learn more about this beautiful endeavor. Together, we will continue the tradition of bringing beauty and celebration to Saint Luke Lutheran Church.

Mental Health Matters

Saint Luke is privileged to host a support group called Connections, that's a service of the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI).  NAMI is the largest grassroots organization in the US that's focused on mental illness.  One of its services is to enable groups like Connections.  

This twice-monthly group comes to us because one of the facilitators is the Rev. Ed Kane, who served as Interim Pastor here before Pastor Sue Ericsson was called in 2006.  The group Pastor Kane has been helping to lead since 2019 was looking for an in-person home after CoViD restrictions eased.  He remembered that when Schlack Hall was reconstructed after our 2003 fire, the leadership of the congregation wanted it to be a beneficial resource to the community.  We continue to make that desire real by hosting groups like Connections at nominal or no fees.  

Rev. Ed Kane

While they're not therapy, these support groups are led by trained, NAMI-certified facilitators, in this case, Pastor Kane and Danielle Sulpizio. Pastor Kane said that among the most rewarding aspects of his involvement with Connections has been, "... seeing people heal, helping each other through times of crisis and moving forward on life's journey." He observed that the level of empathy in the group - people who have been managing mental illness over the course of their lives - allows them to encourage each other: “I struggled like that.  Here’s what helped me.”  

When public meetings shut down in 2020, Connections went on Zoom, like pretty much everything else.  The need for groups like this mushroomed, with attendance at this meeting going from 30 potential members to over 70, meeting twice a week on Zoom.  There’s nothing like meeting face-to-face, though, so this group adopted a hybrid schedule, twice a month online, twice here at Saint Luke.  People who are interested in attending Connections should contact Pastor Kane at 484-744-1326.  

From Fun in the Sun to Joy in the Classroom

Saint Luke Kids Sunday School starts up again this fall on September 17. The faith journey begins with the Parents (or Grandparents) & Twos class where church relationships and friendships begin. Play, music, and stories teach our littlest Sunday schoolers about God’s love. The preschool and early elementary grades continue the faith journey focusing on the love of God, Jesus, and one another while having fun with games, playtime, and crafts. Our fun and lively music sessions with John Rea begin with this age group. The middle elementary grades explore the Bible and the life of Jesus through Bible stories and history, games, and fun activities like a picnic of foods Jesus may have eaten! Bible stories help our upper elementary students further explore and understand God’s love for us while cooking, crafts, and making gifts for others, such as scarves for the Giving Tree, make lessons fun and meaningful. The 6th grade class transitions from Bible stories to Bible study in preparation for Confirmation classes the following year. Our oldest Sunday School students may enjoy service projects or field trips as they expand on not only the faith in one’s own life but in the world around us.

We hope to see all the Saint Luke Kids at Sunday School this year. As a wise co-teacher summed it up, “Saint Luke offers your child a Christian education where he will learn, feel safe, feel loved, AND HAVE FUN!”

God’s Peace and Love,

Heidi Romeiser, Sunday School Director

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MEET THE TEACHERS

As you look forward to the fall, get to know our Sunday School teachers! Our teachers share their experience, favorite parts of teaching, and some of their summer joys!

Kathy Seaton

I teach our Parents & Twos class. I have taught at Saint Luke since 1974. I enjoy helping parents find ways to practice faith with their toddlers. It is exciting to see how much the children look forward to Sunday school. The class enables parents and two year olds to find friends and support at the church. I love hearing parents tell me that every morning their little ones get out of bed and ask, “Is there Sunday school?”

This Summer, my husband Paul and I are growing zinnias around our house and in pots. There are always a few in glass milk containers on the windowsill in our kitchen!

Susie Martin

I help teach our preschool class (3 and 4 yr olds). I've been teaching for 40 years.  I started the year my youngest son was 3.  It was a big class and they needed help. I love working with the little ones in their first class without their parents.  They are so open to God's love.

This summer I have been relaxing since I took my dream vacation to Italy last September. 

Barb Messaros

I am teaching 3s and pre-k. I have been a part of the Sunday School teaching team for 23 years. Each year my favorite thing is the same- the children!

This summer, I am finding joy spending time with my family, especially my parents who are still blessed with good health. 

Karen Maschmeyer

I am excited to be teaching our Kindergarten and 1st Grade class. I have been teaching for 29 years. My favorite thing about Sunday School is the interaction with the students when they get excited about the story.

This summer, I am enjoying spending quality time with family.

Valerie Reuben

I have been teaching the Kindergarteners & 1st graders. I have been involved in Sunday school for 3 yrs. I enjoy working with children of all ages. I am always amazed at the children's creativity and storytelling abilities. I also enjoy coming up with activities for them that relate to the Bible chapters weekly. Their young minds bring enormous joy to me. 

This summer I am enjoying the sites of Wisconsin and Michigan with one of my daughters. We have gone to many state parks enjoying all that God has created. 

Nancy Wood

This year I will continue teaching K & 1st grade (5 -7 year old kids).  A wonderful age! I have been teaching Sunday School for 57 years and several sporadic years between our children’s births. When you are doing what you love it is hard to think of it in years! My favorite part of teaching Sunday School is sharing God’s love with the kids in creative, meaningful experiences to help the kids know and share that LOVE with others.

This summer I am finding a lot of joy in nature as I garden and am reminded of the wonder and beauty God has created for us.

Heidi Romeiser

I teach the 2nd/3rd grade class. I have been teaching for 25 years. The children are the best part of Sunday School. I learn something new from the children every year by having the privilege of seeing the world through their fresh, young eyes. One of my favorite events of the year is Bible Sunday when the 3rd graders receive their Bibles. Being a small part of opening up God’s Word and the Good News of Jesus to the children gives me great joy.

The best part of this summer is spending time with family from out of state whom we don’t see nearly often enough.

Donna Nansteel
I am happy to return to teach 2nd/3rd grade again. I taught 2nd Grade Sunday School at Saint Luke for 18 years while my own children were attending classes. I also taught VBS during that time. One of my favorite things about teaching Sunday School is working with other teachers who are dedicated to bringing the love of Jesus to the children.  I can truly say that we are a patient, kind and supportive community. My other favorite thing about teaching is the children who are eager to learn about the Bible, to read for themselves verses, stories, and history. They enjoy learning about Bible times, looking at maps, and hearing about Jesus’ life growing up in Nazareth.

My special joy this summer was the birth of my grandson, Charlie.  New life- what could be better!

Marie Lambeck

I help with the 2nd / 3rd grade children. Last year was my first year back in Christian Education in many years. I feel the special gift of coming together with parents, staff, and children as we seek to know God and walk God’s Way.

 This summer, I am being mindful of the everyday adventures, gifts of life—large and small— that bring me joy and surprises every day.

Bonnie Jacobson Marziani

I am teaching the 4th-5th grade class. I have been teaching for 13 years. My favorite thing is learning how much God loves us.  And I like eating snacks like Disciple Trail Mix and making scarves for the Giving Tree!

During the summer,  I love the going to the beach and bike riding!

Lynne d’Entremont

I will be teaching 4th-5th grades. I have been teaching about 40 years! I love getting to know our students and teaching them about Jesus’ love for them and how we can be heroes for him. And, I of course, love teaching them about our Baptism and Communion Sacraments!

I ‘m enjoying my summer recovering from ankle surgery and being in my favorite place, Cape Cod. I will be having my cast removed and will be able to walk again soon, on a boot and can’t wait!!

Gretchen DiSciascio

I'm teaching the 6th grade Sunday School class this year. This will be my third year teaching Sunday School. My favorite part about teaching this class is that we have some great discussions about not only the Bible passage, but how it applies in our lives right now, and that every week I learn something new or get to see things from a new perspective.

This summer, we're hanging out by the pool and spending a lot of extra time with extended family, and getting ready for my sister's wedding in the fall! 

Sparky Lok

I'm teaching 6th Grade. I have been teaching for 27 years! My favorite thing about Sunday School is definitely the kids; they're wonderful.  Also, I love introducing scripture to Saint Luke kids.

This summer, I enjoyed a recent road trip through northern New Mexico and Arizona and through southern Utah.  I also enjoyed some volunteer work in the Navajo Nation during the first phase of that month-long journey!

Robby Gilbert

I teach the 6th grade class. I have been teaching for many years. In our sixth grade class we read the Bible out loud taking turns and then we discuss what we have read and then we encourage the students to really think about what we read. We encourage our students to find their voices and feel comfortable; preparing them for Confirmation classes where they move to the following year.

The summer is moving super fast. My wife, Monica and our 2 adult children, Philip and Katharine met in California and traveled together on a family road trip driving 4016 miles and have great memories of our adventures!

Jennifer Nansteel

I serve as a Substitute Teacher. This will be my second year. I love getting to know the children of Saint Luke and putting a fresh spin on familiar bible stories.

Summer is my favorite season and I am having a wonderful time relaxing with my kids, Grace and John. 

Jodi Donohue

I'm subbing in the elementary grades. This will be my second year. I regularly do the Children's Message in our Worship service and my favorite thing about the children is they always can find a way to surprise me and make me think.  They challenge me to become a lifelong learner about God's love and grace.

This summer I am enjoying long nature walks, and hanging with my dog on the deck!

Melora Bauman

I help sub with the 5th Grade class. I think that I’ve been helping teach for 25 years. My favorite part of Sunday school is bonding with the kids

Some of my summer joy has been people watching and being among other people without masks!

Quilts with a Cause

Needles and Pins began in the early 2000’s with Janet Neumar, a Saint Lukan who’s since moved to Lancaster, coordinating a group of folks who met twice a month to make quilts for Lutheran World Relief. Janet Bellak and Liz Harmon were the next to take up the ministry, and they organize Needles and Pins today. Janet Bellak, a long-time quilter, taught by her mother, was inspired by her predecessor and continues on Mondays because, “It’s a lovely group of people” and she sees their gifts as helping people all over the world who’ve gone through awful events in their lives.

Liz reports that with a substantial number of quilters and a weekly schedule now, they’ve been turning out over 100 quilts a year! Lutheran World Relief does a lot of good around the world with people who are made refugees by conflict or natural disasters. Needles and Pins was one life-sustaining ministry here that continued to meet when the CoViD-19 pandemic shut down most in-person gatherings. Social distancing led them to work at two tables instead of one, and continue to supply quilts, because the need didn’t end when things shut down in 2020.

Lutheran World Relief also distributes personal hygiene kits and school kits around the world. In late August and early September, we’ll be collecting items to make up 50 hygiene and 60 school kits. They’ll be assembled on September 10 as part of our observance of “God’s Work, Our Hands” Sunday, an annual Lutheran day of service. Watch your announcements and weekly e-mails for details and how to help.

In the meantime, Needles and Pins continues to meet on Mondays at 9:30am in Saint Luke. Each week women gather to make quilts that will be sent to areas worldwide that are suffering as the result of man-made or natural disasters. No sewing experience is necessary, so all are welcome to participate in this purposeful program.

TJ's ELCA Adventure

Saint Luke member Thelma Jacks (TJ) was one of 35 people selected from hundreds of nominations across the country to serve on the Commission on a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC), which held its first meeting in July. The 2022 Churchwide Assembly established the CRLC to reconsider statements of purpose for the church and its organizational structure. The commission will present its findings and recommendations to the 2025 Churchwide Assembly in preparation for a possible reconstituting convention. To learn more, visit https://www.elca.org/crlc.

Here is what TJ had to say about her first experience with CRLC:

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Lutherans proclaim that “All Are Welcome!” At Saint Luke, we add “No Exceptions!” As a female American of African descent, sitting in the pews of Saint Luke, hearing that expression every Sunday brings feelings of joy and sorrow. Joy that Saint Lukans proclaim it, and sorrow that it is necessary to proclaim it in that it is not an intuitive behavior/attitude of all people in all of life’s circumstances.

Recognizing that this situation exists in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), the Church has set itself on a path for renewal. During the 2022 Churchwide Assembly, the participants passed a resolution “to direct the Church Council to establish a Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church, comprised of leaders of a diverse representation from all three expressions that working in consultation with the Conference of Bishops and the Church Council, shall reconsider the statements of its organizational structure, and all matters pertaining thereunto, being particularly attentive to our shared commitment to dismantle racism…”

Luke the Monkey traveled with TJ to the first meeting

The Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church was constituted in 2023 and held its first meeting in July.  This diverse group of Lutherans is charged with making recommendations regarding the ELCA’s organizational structure that erects barriers for exclusion.

When first presented with this opportunity to be a part of the Commission, I was both apprehensive and excited; apprehensive about the daunting work ahead but excited to be a part of this journey to make God’s Word real to all. I am thankful that the first meeting was not a working session, related to the tasks at hand. This session’s focus was geared towards getting to know our fellow commissioners, understanding that this is a difficult and complex task, but that grounded in God’s Word and the Holy Spirit, achievements can occur.

Working in different small groups, the Commissioners studied several Biblical verses: Isaiah 42:16-21, Isaiah 42:1-19, Acts 15:1-21, Philippians 2:1-11, and Acts 16:6-15. The studies centered on three discussion areas, which words or phrases are you immediately drawn to, what meaning do these verses have for me, and what meaning do these verses have for the commission. And, finally, the Commissioners created a process covenant, a covenant regarding our behavior as individual commissioners and how the Commission will act as a body.

After spending three days with my fellow Commissioners, I can say that my apprehension has diminished and that my excitement about the tasks ahead has grown. I am grateful to be on this journey with these faithful Commissioners.

Bible Stories for Grown Ups

Fifty years ago the song Piano Man was released and whenever it played I was with Bill playing the piano and ready to conquer the world.  Now when I listen to the song I think that Bill may be a bit too hard on those poor guys at the bar.  For me, Bible Stories for Grown Ups has been a similar journey.  Bible Stories for Grown Ups allowed me to change my perspective about the Bible in the same way I have changed my perspective about music.  The songs and stories are all the same but the listener has changed.  As my perspective shifts the stories take on new meaning and characters get a different consideration.

A mature analysis of Bible stories can bring other characters into play sort of like my new appreciation for those guys at the bar.  Were Noah and his family really the only ones worth saving?  Was the test of Abraham’s faith worth the trauma Isaac endured?  To an adult ear these stories sound less certain and can even raise uncomfortable questions about faith.  It can be hard to consider the stories in this way.

The most important lesson of Bible Stories for Grown Ups is that no one need do this alone.  The program is designed for participants to learn about one another’s insights about these stories.  The series encourages participants to share their experience of these stories and grow together.  The ultimate lesson is that any story about G-d surpasses human understanding which is why the best way to read them is together.

Genesis tells us that humanity is made in God’s image.  So, perhaps the best way to learn about God is when we learn about and from each other.  That is certainly the point of Bible Stories for Grown Ups and I feel very lucky to be a part of the Saint Luke community that teaches me so much.

Warmer. Safer. Drier.

This summer, a team from Saint Luke transformed homes and lives. Hundreds of Central Appalachian families in need are living in homes with leaky roofs, soft floors, and unsafe porches or stairs. Appalachia Service Project forms teams to provide critical repairs to make families’ homes warmer, safer, and drier.

Our 2023 trip marked our 8th year sending teams to ASP (2013 thru 2019), and the 11th year supporting ASP (2020, 2021, & 2022 financial support).

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Mawwiage

The Red Team: John, Elizabeth, & Sam Muir, Noah & Siena Schulz, Shaun Snyders, and Jessica Lee Tinneny (Thursday & Friday)

The Home: Code name Mawwiage, located in Sullivan County, Bluff City, TN, was a two-story house that was in need of a new roof, siding, and an access ramp to the side door.

The Homeowners: Buddy (grandfather), Christal (grandmother) and lots of grandchildren. The grandchildren that we met were Alexis (Lexi), Ezra, Finn, Sutton. We were told that as many as 8 grandchildren lived with Buddy & Christal in this 2-bedroom home. The family was like others that we have met while on ASP, where the grandparents were raising the grandchildren due to the parents having a drug addiction problem.

Buddy and Christal were awesome people! Buddy was born with a heart problem that worsened as he aged. This problem recently required that he have a defibrillator in addition to the pacemaker surgically implanted. This resulted in him no longer being allowed to drive a truck and he lost his job.

Buddy and Christal moved to this house to help Christal’s father who was in his 90s and could not care for himself. There was a lot of history that they openly shared with us. The most interesting was the chimney made from stone that was transported by horse and wagon from a nearby quarry.

The Week: We were paired with another team from the Congregational Church of New Fairfield, CT., fantastic people that we worked really well with. Prior week’s teams had completed a new roof, underpinning, installed insulation, house wrap and started the siding. Monday through Thursday all of us worked on completing the siding. Noah & Siena were fantastic cutting and installing siding. Friday was spent priming all the exposed woodwork. Unfortunately, ASP was unable to procure the permit to allow for the ramp construction. I suspect the ramp will be built in the coming weeks.

Miracle Max

The Blue Team: Jodi Cunniffe, Gillian Heckert-Mitchell, Dawn Heckert, Ben Lammers, Shannon Rose, Fred Schulz, and Jessica Lee Tinneny (Monday – Wednesday)

The Home: Code name Miracle Max located in Sullivan County, Blountville, TN, was a one-story house that was in need of every kind of repair imaginable (new drywall, new subfloor and flooring repair due to water damage, painting).

The Homeowner: Stephanie. Others living in the house were her boyfriend, Tommy, and two children (Bella & Joseph). Both Stephanie and Tommy worked, and had come out of bad relationships. Stephanie was able to get herself and the children out of an unhealthy relationship and into a house that she owns.

The Week: We were paired with a team from Bethel United Methodist Church in Connecticut, and they were an awesome group to work with! Our work consisted of removing old flooring and repairing the subfloor. There was also drywall replacement in the bathroom and then painting. After repairing the subfloor, we put down lauan in preparation for the new floor. We also framed out a window in the bathroom.

As usual the ASP staff were amazing! Lindsey (center director), Ashtin (Volunteer Coordinator), Henry (Finance Coordinator), and Katie (Operations Manager) made it a wonderful experience. In addition, Forest & Cody were HXPs working at the center managing homes being repaired.

Our host for the week was Celebration Church located in Sullivan County, Blountville, TN. We stayed in their community hall. It had air conditioning, hot water, and a beautiful kitchen! This was the nicest center that we have stayed in!

We were able to celebrate Independence Day together watching fireworks in Bristol, TN! The Thursday night picnic with all the volunteers and families had a special guest, Saint Luke’s own Katharine Gilbert! Katharine, who now lives in Knoxville, TN, was able to join the blue team for the day working at their site and staying for the picnic. Some may not be aware that ASP at Saint Luke is a direct result of Katharine going with another church in 2012 and insisting that Saint Luke participate in this amazing ministry!

During the week $8,200 was donated from the church’s participating. This is the largest amount we have seen to date! The Friday night share circle was amazing as always! Listening to all the volunteers speak about where they saw God that week was so inspiring. As always, God was clearly visible to all of us in so many ways while on ASP! We made unforgettable memories with our homeowners, staff, and the other volunteers, and it was great to be serving in Appalachia again!

If you want to learn more about the impact of our work, contact/reach out to John & Elizabeth Muir. And, be sure to save the date for the week of July 4, 2024 so you can serve with ASP. We would love to have you join us!