2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly
The 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly is swiftly approaching, and we're thrilled to invite our voting members, visitors, and exhibitors to join us from June 13-15, 2024, for a time of fellowship, decision-making, and worship. This year's assembly promises to be a transformative experience for all attendees, filled with meaningful discussions, inspirational worship services, and the opportunity to connect with fellow members from across the synod.
Communication Corner | May
As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance communication and streamline our processes, I wanted to share an important update regarding our eNews frequency.
For the past couple of months, we have adjusted the timing of our newsletters. Instead of sending the eNews out monthly, we are now sending it out twice a month on the first and third Fridays.
Thank You for Donations!
Thanks again to all who have participated in our "donor choice" projects in support of Casa de la Misericordia y de Todas las Naciones asylum shelter and/or ELCA Good Gifts. These projects will conclude on Sunday, May 5. As of April 28, you have topped $1000 with $600 for Casa and $425 for Good Gifts. "Awesome!"
Book Drive is coming!
The NE Valley Consortium is collaborating to bring new and gently used books, preferably for children including teens, to Living Water Lutheran Church Vacation Bible School. Check your shelves and closets, maybe the 50 cent children's book basket at the Fountain Hills Library, or bargain bins elsewhere and bring books to church between May 12 and June 16. For some children and youth, this may be the first book they have ever personally owned.
2024 Summer Heat Respite Lunch Packs
Reminder: Our 2024 Summer Heat Respite Lunch Packs for Grace Lutheran kick off at 9:00 a.m. on June 17 in New Journey's fellowship space. All who wish to join are welcome; we should complete 200 lunches in 30-35 minutes. Our later dates are Monday, July 1; September 8 (God's Work. Our Hands. Sunday); and Monday, September 16.
Stewarding God’s Creation
This year, worship brought together Good Shepherd Sunday (April 21) and Earth Day (April 22) in a beautiful mash up.
We considered God, our Good Shepherd, as the source of all life, nourishment, and renewal and is the one who leads us all into right-relationship with creation. As people who live and benefit from the earth’s resources, what does it mean to live gently upon the earth?
Life Passages | Remembering Bob Rosenthal
On Tuesday, April 16, beloved friend and member, Bob Rosenthal completed his baptismal journey and joined God and all the saints in glory.
For those knew Bob, he is remembered as a gentle soul with a steadfast faith and generous heart. In life, Bob was active in service to his community, serving on the Fountain Hills Education Board, singing in community choirs, and contributing his gifts to God’s Church.
May Staff Updates & Projects
Pastor Beth
Current Ministry Projects:
Presiding over Bob Rosenthal’s funeral and internment
Pastoral Care visits
Administrative tasks and ministry planning
Susan
Current Ministry Projects:
Worship PowerPoints & Social Media Content
Creating a Communication Strategy with Pastor Beth
Website Updates
President’s Perspective
On behalf of the Congregation Council, we want to sincerely thank you for having great faith and trust in us to do God’s work for New Journey. Your affirmative “yes” vote in January to the 2024 Mission Spending Plan was graciously received and welcomed.
We value that trust and work everyday to continue to earn it by looking ahead at challenges, adapting to meeting our needs and listening to what God is calling us to do.
Financial Secretary Update
For over four years, member Nancy Ehlers has been serving as New Journey Lutheran’s Financial Secretary. During the month of May, Nancy will transition out of this volunteer role and receive some well-deserved rest.
The Financial Secretary is responsible for counting and over-seeing counters of weekly offering, recording offering in the financial software, tracking special gifts, managing New Journey’s mail, and overseeing the online giving platform, Vanco.