In just two hours, 376 community members came together in an incredible display of teamwork and compassion, setting up and packing an astounding 140,800 meals!

Because of this collective effort, we were able to provide 17,600 meals—a full pallet—to our own Extended Hands Food Bank. Another pallet was delivered to AZ Brainfood, ensuring that 59 students at McDowell Elementary receive essential food packets every Thursday. Additionally, we extended our reach by delivering meals to Grace in the City and Native American Connection, supporting even more individuals in need. Internationally, we were honored to send meals to Ukraine and Haiti, offering relief to communities facing immense challenges.

We are excited to announce the installation of our new council members, who were officially welcomed on Sunday, February 16th. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to the following individuals who have graciously stepped into their new roles:

The Northeast Valley Consortium (Ascension, Christ the Lord, Living Water, New Covenant, and New Journey Lutheran Churches) is “all in!” for the 2025 Lenten Challenge. You can still sign-up today! The focus of the challenge is on positive commitments for self and our neighbors. Choose at least 3 of the 4 categories of challenge areas bolded below:

Thank you to those who joined in our “Pop-up” Letter-writing Sunday on February 23rd!

“The refugee program, created by Congress in 1980, is a form of legal migration to the U.S. for people displaced by war, natural disaster or persecution — a process administered by the United Nations – that often takes years and involves significant vetting. It is different from asylum, by which people newly arrived in the U.S. can seek permission to remain because they fear persecution in their home country.” (Associated Press) Refugees are *not* illegal border crossers. Lutheran Social Services only works with legal refugees and vetted, formally designated evacuees (e.g., post-war Afghans).

Pastor Beth

• Current Ministry Projects:

  • Planning & Facilitating Wednesday evening "Soup & Study" 

  • Planned vacation: March 14-21

  • Walk for Water on March 22

  • Holy Week & Easter Planning