We give thanks for those assisting with worship:Pastor - The Rev. Alex Stall, Jr.; Assisting Minister - Debbie Lewis; Altar Guild - George & Susan Toth; Greeter - Susan Toth; Usher - Rensford Lovell; Videographer - Brian Thiel; Social Hour Host - Jones & Esther Day; Counters - Desiree Jessimy and Nancy Jairrels.
Landscape Committee | Sunday, 11:30 AM. Help plan Advent’s ecological and fiscal stewardship of our beautiful property, particularly the north lawn.
From the Pastor's Desk - Week of July 22
For the past couple of weeks, Rick has posted a sign on the round table in the narthex keeping us all updated on the upcoming construction and repair work here at the church. We have some busy weeks ahead of us, so I thought this week I’d look at a few things and how they’ll impact things.
Work to repair the accident damage to the 22nd Street side wall is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, August 7. The plan calls for about 30 days to complete the work. For at least the first two weeks, it is anticipated that the noise will be pretty intense as the wall is removed and the corner masonry is redone. During the noisy times, we will close the office. Nancy and I will work from home. We will still be available by email, phone, Zoom, or whatever else is needed. If a pastoral emergency arises and if anyone needs me, I will come to you, or we will set up a place to meet.
We are going to get a fresh coat of paint on the narthex and the sanctuary August 12-16. During that time, we ask that you avoid both of these areas as preparation and painting are underway. The plan is to be back in the sanctuary for worship on Sunday, August 18.
As you know, the AC unit that cools the kitchen is going to be replaced on August 12. That will be a welcome thing, for sure!
If you’ve ever made a project plan, you know that there are things that can affect them – weather, permits, anything! If anything should pop up that causes a delay or a shift, we will be certain to let you know – check Rick’s sign in the narthex, this newsletter, or any group email we may send out.
Finally, I will be taking a vacation with Shelley from August 26 – September 1. I will not be here for worship on September 1, but Bishop Leila Ortiz will be here to preach and preside! That seems a good way to slide into the Labor Day holiday, and the beginning of fall! After service, the bishop will hold an Adult Forum conversation – a time to sit and talk. Bishop Ortiz loves spending time with congregations answering (and asking) questions, and just talking!
The worship planning team has put together the plan for worship music for the rest of the year. It’s hard to believe that Advent is not too far over the horizon! We’ve got some good hymns coming up, and I think you’ll like the liturgical settings we’re picking. In September, we’ll switch to the “Now the Feast and Celebration” setting by Marty Haugen that we used last year. For the season of Advent, we are looking at using a setting from the “With One Voice” hymnal – the “blue book” that came between the “Lutheran Book of Worship” (the green book), and “Evangelical Lutheran Worship” (the cranberry book).
You continue to be in my prayers for a peaceful and enjoyable summer!
Do you love bluebirds, chickadees and other songbirds? Did you know that our native songbirds need insects to raise their chicks? That our native insects need native plants to eat? Melinda Soltys, wildlife and native plant advocate and president of Wild Ones NoVA chapter will explain the importance of native plants, how they help our local pollinators and wildlife, and how native plants can be part of your beautiful landscaping - whether formal or informal.
Watch this animated video from Plant Virginia Natives to learn more about the importance of native trees and plants.
Construction project to repair the accident damage on the north side of the building. The office will be closed several days during the work. Look for details and a schedule later.
August 12 - 16
The kitchen air conditioner will be installed and the Welcome Center and Sanctuary painted. Please avoid areas being painted.
August 17
Advent: The Gathering - "Wishing and Hoping and Thinking and Praying . . .
Planning and Dreaming."
September 14
First Ever Unsale on the Ridge - like a yard sale, but everything is FREE.
November 16
Health and Wellness Expo (possible)
Look for more information in the coming weeks.
Help move furniture for painting!
After the service on August 11, Rick H. is looking for a few able-bodied folks to help prepare the Sanctuary and Welcome Center for painting. Chairs and furniture must be moved away from the walls and into the center of the Welcome Center, as well as chairs away from the walls in the sanctuary. If you are available, please reach out to Rick or email the office.
“Christian Nationalism and who is a 'real’ American”
In her video addressing Christian nationalism, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton reminds us that “what binds us together is not ethnicity, but shared participation in our civic life springing out of our cultural heritages and working for the common good.”
You are invited to join the fun at this multigenerational event. Bring a food dish to share, especially one that showcases your family heritage, culture, or ethnicity. There will be one large tent to gather under but please bring chairs, blankets, and anything else that will make you comfortable. Shepherd of the Hills is located at 4090 Sudley Road, Haymarket, VA 20169.
Something BIG is coming! The synod is going to share a big reveal at the event! Come be the first to see.
Share a ministry. Ministry teams are encouraged to set up a table to show how you serve the community. This is a great opportunity to share your mission and gain new interest.
Fun for children & youth. Activities include karaoke, a ball pit, a bounce house/waterslide, volleyball, and an array of lawn games and snow cones.