News Blog
Join us at the next Congregational Meeting
Sunday, April 19, following worship
Informational meeting: Proposal to share space with Fountains United Methodist Church
This and further meetings will include, to the best of our abilities, electronic participation via Zoom
Pastor’s Pen
"So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; look, new things have come into being!" (2 Cor 5:17)
"Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!"
For those first witnesses, this phrase was unsteady and unsure. Could it really be true? This is beyond the realm of reality.
Invitations from the Fountains UMC
Our friends at Fountains United Methodist Church have invited us to join them for several Holy Week gatherings, and we’re glad to share the invitation with you.
NEVC Joint Maundy Thursday Worship
You’re invited to the NEVC’s second joint Maundy Thursday worship service! Join us for a meaningful midday gathering featuring music, conversation, Holy Communion, simple nibbles, and optional footwashing.
Fifth Sunday Letter-Writing
As has become our tradition, New Journey members and friends will have the opportunity on Sunday, March 29, to raise our voices into the public square by signing a joint letter to our U.S. Senate and House representatives. This month, we will again join the annual, national Bread for the World Offering of Letters in support of addressing world hunger.
Reconciling in Christ
Reconciling in Christ is central to New Journey’s identity as an open and affirming church committed to equity, radical hospitality, and loving all people as God loves us.
Space Update
Knowing that New Journey’s current lease agreement will conclude at the end of this year, 2025 council members began to look at options.
Staffing Update
New Journey's Communication Coordinator, Susan Brahs, has notified Council that she has accepted a new position, effective after April 10, which allows her to better meet her family's needs. We are immensely grateful for Susan's consistent and creative support of worship slides, eNews, social media, and other publicity for New Journey's mission over recent years.
March 2026 Council Minutes
To read the approved March 2026 Congregation Council Meeting minutes, click here.
If you have questions, please contact any member of the Congregation Council.
Pastor Transition Update
Pastor Dominic Palacios, our transition consultant, will visit New Journey on March 21-22. He will conduct workshops on Saturday with Council and with the Call Committee.
Join us for Holy Week
Join us for a meaningful journey through Holy Week as we remember Jesus’ path from Jerusalem to the cross—and rejoice in the promise of resurrection.
SNAP Setback for Arizonans
Thousands of Arizonans lost SNAP benefits on March 1. Food Banks are working to fill the hunger gap. What can you do?
What's Up with the Red Door?
During the 40-40-40 Lenten Challenge, New Journey's red door contains weekly information on the six foci in Matthew 25: 37-41 "Lord, when did we see you?" . . . hunger, thirst, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned. Check out the possibilities to care for neighbors in need.
Financial Update - March 5
Here’s a snapshot of our finances as of January 21. Thank you for your continued support of New Journey’s ministries and mission!
Transition Team Update
Transition Consultant Pr. Dominic Palacios will be at New Journey on March 21–22. On Saturday, he will lead two morning workshops—one with the Council and one with the Call Committee. He will preach at Sunday worship, followed by a presentation to the congregation on the next steps in the call process for New Journey’s next pastor. Please make plans to attend!
Council Update:
Next meeting: Tuesday, March 10, at 2:00 p.m. The primary topic will be the proposal from Fountains United Methodist Church for New Journey to share space on the FUMC campus.
We are still short of volunteers: a sixth council member, a church treasurer, and a second member for the Audit Committee. Please let Cindi or Kris know of your interest in any of these roles. All year-round, confirmed members are eligible.
Pastor’s Pen
“Then the woman left her water jar and went back to the city. She said to the people, “Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done! He cannot be the Messiah, can he?” (John 4:28-29)
It is a curious phrase isn’t it. She left her water jar behind and went back to the city. The day didn’t end up the way it began.
Ash Wednesday
This past Wednesday, February 18, at 5:00 pm, our congregation gathered at New Journey Lutheran Church for a contemplative Ash Wednesday worship service. Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of our journey into the season of Lent—a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal.
Blessings on your continued journey through Lent.
Register for the 2026 NEVC Faith Formation Event
"Belonging: Five Keys to Unlocking Your Potential as a Disciple." Presenter: Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis, Professor and Marbury E. Anderson Chair of Biblical Preaching at Luther Seminary. April 11, 1:00-4:00 p.m. at LIving Water Lutheran Church, Scottsdale.
Prepare for New Journey's next 5th Sunday Letter-Signing on March 29:
Join us in Bread for the World’s Offering of Letters as we advocate for vital hunger‑relief programs; everyone is welcome to participate, and draft letters will be posted in the March 20 eNews and on New Journey’s Red Door.