Updates Beginning 29 December 2024

Adult Faith Development is taking a vacation today! Please join us next week after worship. ~The AFD Team

St. Paul Youth: One of the ministries that our youth have continued over the years is collecting aluminum can donations from our congregation. The Matthews have supported this ministry by taking and selling the cans to a local recycling facility. $111 was raised this year. Noah and Gabriel Rabezanany, two of our youth, thoughtfully selected the following ELCA Good Gift items from the 2024 Christmas catalogue: 10 chicks; a share of a fish farm; 1 water filter; school supplies for a child; and stock a backpack with food. The order was submitted on Dec. 16th, and the funds raised will be matched by ELCA through their end-of-year campaign.  Thank you to everyone who participates by bringing in aluminum cans for recycling.  We hope to double these efforts in 2025. ~Peggy Burnett

God’s Work Our Hands: Thank you to all who have donated thus far for our December project: Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 2 January 2025. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. And stay tuned for info on GWOH in 2025! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food Donations for The Storehouse. Food is always needed during the winter. Whenever you go shopping, please pick up an item or two of non-perishable foods for The Storehouse barrel at church.  Pet food is also needed. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

ABQ Chamber Soloists invites you to start your 2025 with music for flute and strings by Mozart and American composer Andrew Norman, followed by Schumann’s majestic Piano Quintet. Next Sunday, January 5, 2pm at St. Paul. A pre-concert chat at 1:15pm with musical director James Holland will be held in Fellowship Hall. Tickets: $15 adult; $12 senior; $5 student. Available at the door, or at www.ticketleap.events/events/albuquerque-chamber-soloists.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Council approved two-year budget proposal. This week, the RMS Council approved a proposal from Bishop Meghan and Finance Director Jon Johnson to: pilot a two-year budgeting process for fiscal years 2025 and 2026 that would incorporate the input of synod council, finance committee, and voting membership in the presentation of a proposed two-year budget for approval at the 2025 Synod Assembly. This proposal comes out of conversations with rostered and lay leaders and members throughout the synod; our goal is to pilot a process that is more transparent, participatory and proactive. Read more about the rationale, planned timeline and steps, and other details at: https://files.constantcontact.com/bbca2826001/62e8d9ba-5e8c-4e7f-bac1-18b00c613955.pdf (and posted in the Welcome Center).

Lutheran World Relief Winter 2024 Special Report and Bread for the World Progress Against Hunger in 2024 are posted in the Welcome Center.

Updates Beginning 22 December 2024

Today: For Adult Faith Development this Advent season we are using The Weary World Rejoices, by Kate Bowler.  Scripture, conversation, and prayer will lead us through the promises of truth, compassion, restoration, and justice.  Right after worship, grab some refreshments and head to the Conference Room.  We look forward to our time together!  ~ Bob Matthews, Jan Krakow, and Ivan Westergaard, the AFD Team

Today after worship, don’t forget to pick up your biscochito and tamale orders in Fellowship Hall. Thank you for your support! ~The Girl Scouts

St. Paul Youth & ELCA Good Gifts: One of the ministries that our St. Paul Youth has continued over the years is collecting aluminum can donations from our St. Paul congregation.  Bob and Nancy Matthews have supported this ministry by taking and selling the cans to a local recycling facility.  During the 2024 calendar year, $111 was raised.  Noah Rabezanany and Gabriel Rabezanany , two of our youth, thoughtfully selected the following ELCA Good Gift items from the 2024 Christmas ELCA Good Gifts catalog: 10 chicks; a share of a fish farm; 1 water filter; school supplies for a child; and stock a backpack with food. The order was submitted to ELCA on Dec. 16th.  The funds raised will be matched by ELCA through their end-of-year campaign.  Thank you to everyone who participates by bringing in aluminum cans for recycling.  We hope to double these efforts in 2025. ~Peggy Burnett

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 2 January 2025. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food Donations for The Storehouse. Food is always needed during the winter. Whenever you go shopping, please pick up an item or two of non-perishable foods for The Storehouse barrel at church.  Pet food is also needed. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

A “Thank You” to St. Paul:
Deborah and Nancy, what a blessing Thursday Dinner was! The food was so lovely and it was an honor to have you commune with us. Thank you so much. We enjoyed every minute of it. Advent blessings to you, Rhonda Newby-Torres, Pastor, Luther House UNM & CNM

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

This Tuesday:

ABQ Chamber Soloists invites you to start your 2025 with music for flute and strings by Mozart and American composer Andrew Norman, followed by Schumann’s majestic Piano Quintet. Sunday, January 5, 2pm at St. Paul. A pre-concert chat at 1:15pm with musical director James Holland will be held in Fellowship Hall.

W.A. Mozart: Flute Quartet in C major, K. 285b
Andrew Norman: Light Screens
Robert Schumann: Piano Quintet in E-flat major, Op. 44

Featuring: Jesse Tatum, flute; Judith Gordon, piano; Megan Holland, Nicolle Maniaci, violins; Laura Chang, viola; James Holland, cello.

Tickets: $15 adult; $12 senior; $5 student. Available at the door, or at www.ticketleap.events/events/albuquerque-chamber-soloists.

From ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative: Our newcomer friends seeking asylum, our clients who are newly housed, and our neighbors struggling to stay housed.... they are better off with your fellowship. Right now, thankfully, they are preparing holiday meals, wrapping presents, and anticipating the gift of giving and receiving with loved ones. During these longest nights of the year, your part as a giver means that our neighbors can celebrate the light of hope in a welcoming community. Dedicated ABQ FaithWorks volunteer family liaisons continue to support newcomers to find success and belonging here in Albuquerque.
          I need to tell you that we're getting more and more calls from folks facing eviction … panicked that they will be forced out to the streets. All for getting sick and losing hours at work, or having a surprise car repair, or losing their second job. By the end of the year, with your help, we will have provided over 40,000 dollars in rental, utility, and emergency fuel card assistance for nearly 100 neighbors.
          Our programs are now mostly volunteer-fueled but through mutual aid and the generosity of supporters like you we will continue helping neighbors find a safe home in the community of their choosing in 2025. Please donate at: https://www.abqfaithworks.org/. With joyful gratitude, Hannah Albee, Executive Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Blessed Advent and Merry Christmas from Bishop Meghan! Each year, as Advent draws close to Christmas, our northern hemisphere experiences the winter solstice: the shortest day and longest night of the year. It’s a wonderful chance to ponder the holy darkness as a place of reflection, creativity, and new beginnings—and to give thanks for the holy light of Christ that guides us. Some congregations and ministries are hosting “Blue Christmas” or “Longest Night” services as an opportunity for prayer and contemplation for those who are grieving, anxious, or simply wanting a quiet space amid joyful celebrations. Whether or not you are offering or attending a service like this, I’ve been reminded these past few weeks that pain and grief are very present companions to many at the holidays. I’m grateful for the ways the people of this synod continue to surround and support one another and our neighbors with compassion.
          This first Christmas back in the U.S., I’m grateful for the time we will have with family here in Colorado to unplug and unwind a bit from a whirlwind summer and fall. I hope and pray you will find that same opportunity (knowing that for our pastors, deacons, musicians, church office staff, and many others, that opportunity will have to wait until sometime later on in the 12 days of Christmas—maybe by the time the six geese-a-laying arrive?)
          Yet while we celebrate together, my family and I also will be missing family and loved ones in the Holy Land who continue to struggle through times of incredible hardship; and we are thinking of all who live in grief or deep uncertainty during this time. Joy and grief, song and silence, celebration and contemplation… all can, and do, coexist in every season in our lives—as the Apostle Paul reminds us, urging the members of the body of Christ to “rejoice with those who rejoice [and] weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15).
          In our office, when our staff returns from some well-deserved vacation on January 2, we will be living in another kind of juxtaposition: the known and unknown of transition. Our synod staffing team will be working to finish the process of calling positions for our office of the bishop staff. This process has brought the gift of significant interest from candidates throughout the synod and discernment discussions with many gifted leaders. From the beginning, our staffing team had the goal of moving forward as quickly as we could while still taking the time to honor the commitment we made to an open hiring process; and the result has been that this process will continue into the new year. 
          In the meantime, the office of the bishop will begin the year short-staffed in some of our areas of ministry; and I ask for your patience and grace. We will endeavor to send out our e-Connections and other synod communications as frequently as we are able. Our transition coaches, along with bridge transition coordinator Pr. Will Johnson, are available for questions related to transition. Our conference deans and synod council members can also serve as great resources and as a point of contact for synod members. And, of course, please continue to reach out to me and to our office with questions and needs. We will do our very best to reply as soon as we’re able. I am grateful for your support in this, as I continue to believe that this discernment process has been faithful in inviting and following the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the sake of our shared ministry together into the future.
          As Advent moves us through the longest night, to the long-awaited arrival of Christmas, may we remember that in this and every time of waiting, anticipation, and unknowing, God has already arrived and is present with us in Jesus. In all that this next year will bring, this is certain: the child born in holy darkness also lights our way. The God who calls us into the future will not leave us, but will accompany us in every moment of joy and every moment of grief—and in every step.

In Christ, Bishop Meghan 

Updates Beginning 15 December 2024

Today: For Adult Faith Development this Advent season we are using The Weary World Rejoices, by Kate Bowler.  Scripture, conversation, and prayer will lead us through the promises of truth, compassion, restoration, and justice.  Right after worship, grab some refreshments and head to the Conference Room.  We look forward to our time together!  ~ Bob Matthews, Jan Krakow, and Ivan Westergaard, the AFD Team

Continuing this Wednesday! Please consider joining us for midweek Advent service at 6pm in the Chapel. We are using the beautiful Holden Evening Prayer and will include reflections as we prepare for the birth of Christ. This will be a time of calm from our crazy world and from the hectic activity of the season. I know that my soul could use some calm and soothing from all the chaos. Hope to see you there! ~Jo Browning, Worship & Music 

Today stop by the Girl Scouts’ table in the Welcome Center to place an order for biscochitos and tamales! Delivery will be at church next Sunday, 22 December. ~Francesca Apodaca, Troop Leader

Calico Preschool This Friday:

Adopted Families: There may still be some tags available on our paper tree in the foyer if you would like to get a gift for someone. Just a friendly reminder - the Christmas gifts for our families will be picked up from St. Paul next Sunday some time soon after the service ends, so all gifts need to be returned before then. It so happens that Cheri and Ted Parson (who also do a lot on the Adopted Families project) were recently visiting an "old" adopted family that they have kept in touch with for many years. One of the daughters in that family is now grown up and just had her second baby. The daughter said she remembers the Christmases they had when she was little in Albuquerque. She said she is sure the project made them happen. She told Cheri how grateful she is for everything. Since she is grown she always goes to a giving tree and adopts a family as a way of giving back for what she was given. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 2 January 2025. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food Donations for The Storehouse. Food is always needed during the winter. Whenever you go shopping, please pick up an item or two of non-perishable foods for The Storehouse barrel at church.  Pet food is also needed. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

2pm Today at St. Paul: The New Mexico Brass Quintet will be performing a Christmas program including a wide range of music from the Baroque works of Henry Purcell to the movie music of John Williams and Alexander Courage of Star Trek.  In addition to seasonal Christmas music, the group will perform audience requests of favorite carols and a new arrangement (per numerous children requests) of the Mr. Grinch song.  In addition to releasing four commercial CDs, NMBQ has toured through the U.S., Germany, Austria, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Mexico, China, Canada, Australia and the Ukraine. The program is free to all as a gift to the community and the congregation of St. Paul. ~Jeffrey Piper, Director

Today:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

An Advent Message from Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni

Dear friends in Christ,
For the eighteen years I have been a pastor, I have worn the same Advent stole—oatmeal-colored, with a blue pattern of words and crosses printed up one side and down another. It often takes onlookers a few moments to realize that the words are a list of names: Eve, Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Ruth, Naomi, Esther, Judith, Mary, Elizabeth, and Mary of Magdala. The stole was a gift, and comes in other liturgical colors, but I’ve always found it appropriate for Advent—which remembers and anticipates God’s arrival in the world in Jesus, a story in which faithful women play an integral role.
          Before Jesus was even born, his mother Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth; and both women rejoiced at the impending birth of their children, whose lives would be connected and filled with purpose: John the Baptist, as the one whose fierce devotion to the promises of God would prepare the way for the recognition of Jesus as God-with-us, and Jesus himself, Son of God and Savior of the world. In this moment, Mary sang a song of praise that was also a sermon, proclaiming that the God who chose her to bear the Christ child “has shown strength with his arm… scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts… brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly… filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.” (Luke 1:49-55). 
                Many years later, Jesus stood up in the synagogue in Nazareth—his home congregation—and echoed the song of his mother, recalling the words of the prophet Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Jesus then declared: “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” (Luke 4:18-21).
                The words of Jesus, and his mother Mary before him, describe the promises and actions of God not as something that is about to happen, but as something God has already done! Even before Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection, the words of Isaiah had already been fulfilled in him, “today”! Even before Jesus’ arrival, God had already “done great things,” restoring justice by lifting up those the world treated as lowly—including Mary herself.
                Advent, we often hear, is a time of waiting: waiting for answers, waiting to know the way forward, waiting for signs of hope in a weary, war-torn, worrisome world. That’s why the wise words of Mary, and of Jesus, mean so much: because even as we wait, we proclaim in faith, in joy, and in defiant hope that God’s power of grace, love, and resurrection life are already real in our lives and in the world. God is already with the suffering, the oppressed, the fearful, the hungry. God is already working, in ways we cannot even recognize, to restore the world to justice, peace, and love. May the heart of Elizabeth and John, and the courage of Mary and Jesus, renew and sustain you in the waiting this Advent season.
In Christ,
Bishop Meghan

Updates Beginning 8 December 2024

Today: For Adult Faith Development this Advent season we are using The Weary World Rejoices, by Kate Bowler.  Scripture, conversation, and prayer will lead us through the promises of truth, compassion, restoration, and justice.  Right after worship, grab some refreshments and head to the Conference Room.  We look forward to our time together!  ~ Bob Matthews, Jan Krakow, and Ivan Westergaard, the AFD Team

Today: Welcome to our Come As You Are Choir! Thank you, Janet, for arranging this before caroling this afternoon. ~Deborah AshToday: Christmas Caroling! After church we will join together and carpool to Good Samaritan Society-Manzano del Sol Village and sing Christmas carols to the residents.  Janet has graciously offered to lead us and has  prepared song books for us to use. After caroling we will return to St. Paul to eat lunch (remember to bring a sack lunch).  At 1:45 we will go to the Morada Assisted Living and Memory Care facility near the church to sing. This joyful holiday tradition is welcome to all—family members, friends and neighbors. ~Jan Bowers, Karin Urban, Janet Vrudny

Continuing this week! Please consider joining us for midweek Advent services. We are using the beautiful Holden Evening Prayer and will include reflections as we prepare for the birth of Christ. This will be a time of calm from our crazy world and from the hectic activity of the season. I know that my soul could use some calm and soothing from all the chaos. The services are at 6pm on Dec 11 and 18 in the Chapel. Hope to see you there! ~Jo Browning, Worship & Music

 Today and next Sunday stop by the Girl Scouts’ table in the Welcome Center to place an order for biscochitos and tamales! Delivery will be at church on Sunday, 22 December. ~Francesca Apodaca, Troop Leader

1pm this Wednesday: Ice Cream Social Hour! At Dairy Queen, 4104 Louisiana Blvd. NE, 87109.

Luther House’s Meal Train: St. Paul provided the evening meal at Thursday’s Open Table Connection fellowship. What a wonderful student gathering, encompassing food, conversation and Bible study! We hope to do this again in 2025. ~Deborah Ash, Sharon Hamilton, Nancy Jenkins, & Molly Kraft

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 2 January 2025. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

From Calico Preschool:

Adopted Families: Our "Giving Tree" is now in the foyer; it has tags that represent the wishes we got from some of our families. You can choose a gift tag (or more); be sure your name and phone number get recorded on our master list for each tag you take. The wrapped gifts need to be returned by Sunday, December 22. You can also make a monetary donation by making a check payable to St. Paul, marking it for Adopted Families-Christmas, and placing it in the Sunday offering or church office. Thank you in advance for thinking of these folks during the holiday season. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Advent Calendars from Lutheran World Relief are available in the Welcome Center. Please take one for you and one to share! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Food Donations for The Storehouse. Food is always needed during the winter. Whenever you go shopping, please pick up an item or two of non-perishable foods for The Storehouse barrel at church.  Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Have you noticed the name tags on some of our newest community? Help them learn our names too! Please wear your name tag - they are found in the display box just inside the narthex. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

Next Sunday: The New Mexico Brass Quintet will be performing a Christmas program at St. Paul Lutheran Church on Sunday, December 15th at 2 pm.  The group will perform a wide range of music from the Baroque works of Henry Purcell to the movie music of John Williams and Alexander Courage of Star Trek.  In addition to seasonal Christmas music, the group will perform audience requests of favorite carols and a new arrangement (per numerous children requests) of the Mr. Grinch song.  In addition to releasing four commercial CDs, NMBQ has toured through the United States, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Mexico, China, Canada, Australia and the Ukraine. The program is free to all as a gift to the community and the congregation of St. Paul. ~Jeffrey Piper, Director

Next Sunday:

In thanks for St. Paul’s hospitality (and not least because Kristi is part of the program!) we'd like to offer congregation members a 20% discount to either of our holiday concerts, The Feminine Divine, on December 15th (2 and 5 pm). To claim this discount, enter the code SPLC24 when checking out at: tickettailor.com/events/corolux/1362592?
          The Coro Lux "family of choruses" presents their annual holiday program at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church (4020 Lomas Blvd., NE in Albuquerque) on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 2 pm and 5 pm. Both concerts are identical. The featured work will be J.S. Bach's Magnificat with full orchestra. Also appearing will be the El Faro Youth Chorus and the Coro Lux chamber chorus, called Luminare. An added bonus on this concert will be the world-premiere of "Luminous Night," a new Christmas work commissioned to celebrate Coro Lux's 10th anniversary season, written by the internationally-known composer Z. Randall Stroope. Musical selections will be interspersed with poetry and readings read by the Rev. Talitha Arnold and the Rev. Kristi Koppel. ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

The Storehouse New Mexico: Sandia Area Federal Credit Union is matching donations up to $25,000 to the Storehouse this season: StorehouseNM.org

This Thursday, 12 December, 5-6pm: ABQ Police are hosting a Pizza with Police event at Giovanni’s, 921 San Pedro Dr. SE.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM: Important Dates for your Calendar!

• Our annual Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon during the upcoming legislative session will take place on Thursday, February 20th. Events will be held at First Presbyterian Church and the La Fonda Hotel.

• A Hunger Action Day and Rally will be held on Friday, February 21st.

• An Action Day and Rally for the Paid Medical and Family Leave Act will take place on Tuesday, January 28th.

• The annual Disability Awareness Day at the capitol will be on Thursday, February 13th.

2024 LSM Musical Advent Calendar. Experience the anticipation and hope of the Advent season with Lutheran Summer Music's fourth-annual Musical Advent Calendar. From December 1-24, immerse yourself in a daily moment of music and reflection shared on our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages and archived on our website at LSMacademy.org/acal. To have these daily videos delivered straight to your inbox, sign up at forms.gle/6Jw7DoDApTAgW4Uf6.

ReconcilingWorks is deeply committed to making the church and world a better place for all God has named and claimed as Beloved. The Board of Directors has created a $5,000 match this season! reconcilingworks.org

Bread for the World: Year-end donations doubled up to $500,000! Gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact of your generosity. Working together, we can make a big difference this Christmas. www.bread.org/

Border Servant Corps: BSC Good Gifts offers a meaningful way to support migrants in the borderlands. From cold-weather gear and essential care for newborns to kids’ kits and birthday celebrations, each gift brings hope to those in need in the U.S.-México border region. Share compassion and change lives this holiday season! https://www.borderservantcorps.org/shop (The catalogue is posted in the Welcome Center.)

Updates Beginning 1 December 2024

Today: For Adult Faith Development this Advent season we'll use The Weary World Rejoices, by Kate Bowler.  Scripture, conversation, and prayer will lead us through the promises of truth, compassion, restoration, and justice.  Right after worship, grab some refreshments and head to the Conference Room.  We look forward to our time together!  ~ Bob Matthews, Jan Krakow, and Ivan Westergaard, the AFD Team

God’s Work Our Hands: After worship today, we will put together wellness kits for HopeWorks in Fellowship Hall. Thank you to all who donated items in November! For our December project, we are accepting donations for Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 2 January 2025. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The First Tuesday of December will be on the 3rd.  Come join us at SW Grape and Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE, between 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm.  The question we may ponder while having snacks and something cool to drink could be, "How did this year go by so quickly?".  Hope to see you there! ~Nancy Matthews

Help us wish our Homebound folks a Merry Christmas. St. Paul Prayer & Visitation Ministry visits regularly to our homebound.  The team will be doing visitations through the month of December and taking with them a gift. We would like to include our congregation in this package of joy – please take a few minutes to sign a blessing, wish or your name to the 8 cards sitting on the Welcome Desk. You may or may not know the individual the card will go to, but they will know they were thought of and that is a gift unto itself. Cards will remain available until this Tuesday, December 3 and then will be placed in the bags to be delivered. Thank You from the Visitation Ministers: Kay Fulton, Sharon Howard, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Pastor Koppel, Julie Ambrogi

Starting this week! Please consider joining us for midweek Advent services. We will be using the beautiful Holden Evening Prayer and will include reflections as we prepare for the birth of Christ. This will be a time of calm from our crazy world and from the hectic activity of the season. I know that my soul could use some calm and soothing from all the chaos. The services are at 6pm on Dec 4, 11 and 18 in the Chapel. Hope to see you there! ~Jo Browning, Worship & Music

Come As You Are Choir - Sunday, December 8! It was nice to see so many of you in church this past Sunday. I thought it would be great to have a “come as you are choir” in church, on the day we go caroling.
          Please come to the choir room at 9:00 a.m. and we will rehearse the “Advent Hymn,” which is a piece we did last December as well, so I’m hoping it will be somewhat familiar. Thanks everyone! I’m looking forward to a nice day with you on Sunday, December 8. ~Janet Vrudny

Christmas Caroling. After church on December 8 we will join together and carpool to Good Samaritan Society-Manzano del Sol Village  and sing Christmas carols to the residents.  Janet Vrudny has graciously offered to lead us and has  prepared song books for us to use. After caroling we will return to St. Paul to eat lunch (remember to bring a sack lunch).  At 1:45 we will go to the Morada Assisted Living and Memory Care facility near the church on Indian School Road to sing. 
          Janet wants to provide enough song books so please RSVP to one of  us if you think you will sing.  This joyful holiday tradition is welcome to all—family members, friends and neighbors. ~Jan Bowers, Karin Urban, Janet Vrudny

Adopted Families: Our "Giving Tree" is now in the foyer; it has tags that represent the wishes we got from some of our families. You can choose a gift tag (or more); be sure your name and phone number get recorded on our master list for each tag you take. The wrapped gifts need to be returned by Sunday, December 22. You can also make a monetary donation by making a check payable to St. Paul, marking it for Adopted Families-Christmas, and placing it in the Sunday offering or church office. Thank you in advance for thinking of these folks during the holiday season. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Advent Calendars from Lutheran World Relief are available in the Welcome Center. Please take one for you and perhaps one to share with a friend or neighbor! ~Deborah Ash

Food Donations for The Storehouse. Food is always needed during the winter. Whenever you go shopping, please pick up an item or two of non-perishable foods for The Storehouse barrel at church.  Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Have you noticed the name tags on some of our newest community? Help them learn our names too! Please wear your name tag - they are found in the display box just inside the narthex. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Thank You’s to St. Paul:

Dear Amazing Community of true Christians! I have seen you in action now for over a year. The love you show, your works and dedication really mean so much to us. Whenever I see Mom (Elizabeth) I pop into worship with my niece Katryn. This special time means so much to worship together. Just wanted to let you know my whole family: my daughters, husband and Mom’s California friends love St. Paul! What a blessing. With love, Desi & Monte

Sending greetings and a great BIG thank you to our friends at St. Paul Lutheran Church! The collection of coats for the Dignity Mission was a huge success. I’m still sorting them and putting them in bags which will be delivered to the border at El Paso on December 14th. The Dignity Mission will also deliver 800 Christmas backpacks to the children at the border. Our “Mad Hatters” have crocheted 150 hats that will be taken as well as scarves, mittens and gloves of all sizes. This is the Christmas trip we all want to take! Every six weeks the Dignity Mission drives a truckload of needed supplies to El Paso. These supplies are delivered to shelters on both sides of the border as well as those living on the streets. God bless all of you for what you do so willingly. Blessings, Rae VanDeMotter, Chair, Outreach & Advocacy, All Saints Lutheran Church

Dear St. Paul Lutheran Church, I write this letter to you with deep gratitude for your partnership with ReconcilingWorks through the Reconciling in Christ program. In this season when many feel unsure of what the next chapter of their lives will bring here is what I know for sure.

1. ReconcilingWorks’ 50 years of ministry is only possible because of you! And I know you will make all that is next possible as well.

2. The need for people of faith to be bold and courageous in living out our values of love, welcome, inclusion, and advocacy are more important than ever.

3. There is a tremendous amount of outreach and education to do across the country and in our Lutheran communities to deepen and expand care for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.

I know these things to be true because ministries like yours near and far are making a difference in your people and communities. With my whole heart, thank you for being a partner in this ministry! God’s Peace, Aubrey Thonvold, Executive Director                                    

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel   

From Local Partner Organizations

From ABQ FaithWorks: Thanks to the generous support from our member congregations this year, continues to help asylum seekers, and those at risk of homelessness. We are recruiting for all sorts of volunteer roles in direct service, administrative, IT, and fundraising. We would love to talk with you about your passion, skills, talent and time and find the right volunteer match for you! Go to https://www.abqfaithworks.org/copy-of-volunteer or give me a call at 505-333-8059. ~Hannah Albee, Executive Director

Next Sunday:

The New Mexico Brass Quintet will be performing a Christmas program at St. Paul Lutheran Church on Sunday, December 15th at 2 pm.  The group will perform a wide range of music from the Baroque works of Henry Purcell to the movie music of John Williams and Alexander Courage of Star Trek.  In addition to seasonal Christmas music, the group will perform audience requests of favorite carols and a new arrangement (per numerous children requests) of the Mr. Grinch song.  In addition to releasing four commercial CDs, NMBQ has toured through the United States, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Mexico, China, Canada, Australia and the Ukraine. The program is free to all as a gift to the community and the congregation of St. Paul. ~Jeffrey Piper, Director

From Coro Lux:

In thanks for St. Paul’s hospitality (and not least because Kristi is part of the program!) we'd like to offer congregation members a 20% discount to either of our holiday concerts, The Feminine Divine, on December 15th (2 and 5 pm). To claim this discount, enter the code SPLC24 when checking out at: tickettailor.com/events/corolux/1362592?
          The Coro Lux "family of choruses" presents their annual holiday program, titled THE FEMININE DIVINE, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church (4020 Lomas Blvd., NE in Albuquerque) on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 2 pm and 5 pm. Both concerts are identical. The featured work will be J.S. Bach's Magnificat with full orchestra. Also appearing will be the El Faro Youth Chorus and the Coro Lux chamber chorus, called Luminare. An added bonus on this concert will be the world-premiere of "Luminous Night," a new Christmas work commissioned to celebrate Coro Lux's 10th anniversary season, written by the internationally-known composer Z. Randall Stroope. Musical selections will be interspersed with poetry and readings read by the Rev. Talitha Arnold and the Rev. Kristi Koppel. ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

The Storehouse New Mexico: Hope Without Hunger. Sandia Area Federal Credit Union is matching donations up to $25,000 to the Storehouse this season: StorehouseNM.org

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM: Important Dates for your Calendar!

• Our annual Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon during the upcoming legislative session will take place on Thursday, February 20th. Events will be held at First Presbyterian Church and the La Fonda Hotel.

• A Hunger Action Day and Rally will be held on Friday, February 21st.

• An Action Day and Rally for the Paid Medical and Family Leave Act will take place on Tuesday, January 28th.

• The annual Disability Awareness Day at the capitol will be on Thursday, February 13th.  

2024 LSM Musical Advent Calendar. Experience the anticipation and hope of the Advent season with Lutheran Summer Music's fourth-annual Musical Advent Calendar. From December 1-24, immerse yourself in a daily moment of music and reflection shared on our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages and archived on our website at LSMacademy.org/acal. To have these daily videos delivered straight to your inbox, sign up at forms.gle/6Jw7DoDApTAgW4Uf6.

Youth musicians are invited to Lutheran Summer Music! LSM is the nation’s premier faith-based music academy for high school students. Students come together from all over the country to immerse themselves in joyful music-making and build a supportive and welcoming community, living together on a college campus. LSM 2025 takes place at Valparaiso University in Indiana from June 22-July 20* (Full Session) or June 22-July 6 (Half Session) and is open to students who have completed grades 8-12. Learn more at: LSMacademy.org/program    

ReconcilingWorks is deeply committed to making the church and world a better place for all God has named and claimed as Beloved. The Board of Directors has created a $5,000 match this season! reconcilingworks.org

Bread for the World: Year-end donations doubled up to $500,000! Gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact of your generosity. Working together, we can make a big difference this Christmas. www.bread.org/

Global Refuge for Giving Tuesday this week: Thanks to a generous matching gift, all donations are doubled up to $50,000, to support New Americans during these unpredictable times. www.globalrefuge.org

Updates Beginning 24 November 2024

Today, 24 November, Congregational Meeting at 11am in Fellowship Hall. Agenda includes 2025 budget and elections. We are also having a Fellowship Potluck while we meet! We will have several pots of chili (both with meat and without). Please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Beverages provided. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Advent is upon us! We will be gathering this Tuesday, 26 November at 1pm, to decorate the Sanctuary for Advent. We'll be putting up the tree with lights, and hanging greens with blue bows around the perimeter. We have a faithful group, (you know who you are!) who gets this done every year, but we would certainly welcome ANY one's help! You know what they say about "many hands"! Thank you, in advance! ~Jan Bowers 

Help us wish our Homebound folks a Merry Christmas. St. Paul Prayer & Visitation Ministry visits regularly to our homebound.  The team will be doing visitations through the month of December and taking with them a gift. We would like to include our congregation in this package of joy – please take a few minutes to sign a blessing, wish or your name to the 8 cards sitting on the Welcome Desk. You may or may not know the individual the card will go to, but they will know they were thought of and that is a gift unto itself. Cards will remain available until December 3 and then will be placed in the bags to be delivered. Thank You from the Visitation Ministers: Kay Fulton, Sharon Howard, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Pastor Koppel, Julie Ambrogi

Midweek Advent Services will be held in the Chapel at 6pm on Wednesdays, December 4, 11, and 18. We will be worshiping with Holden Evening Prayer. ~Terry Cole, Worship & Music

Christmas Caroling, Sunday, December 8. We will join together after church to sing the festive carols of this season. Janet Vrudny has graciously offered to lead us and has prepared song books for us to use. At this time, we have contacted several facilities and are working out the details. We will have time to eat lunch so  please bring a sack lunch. Janet wants to provide enough song books so please RSVP to one of us if you think you will sing.  This joyful holiday tradition is welcome to all—family members, friends, neighbors. More details to come! ~Karin Urban, Jan Bowers, Janet Vrudny

Adopted Families: Our "Giving Tree" is now in the foyer; it has tags that represent the wishes we got from some of our families. You can choose a gift tag (or more); be sure your name and phone number get recorded on our master list for each tag you take. The wrapped gifts need to be returned by Sunday, December 22. You can also make a monetary donation by making a check payable to St. Paul, marking it for Adopted Families-Christmas, and placing it in the Sunday offering or church office. Thank you in advance for thinking of these folks during the holiday season.
I'd also like to report that I worked with a client advocate at Healthcare for the Homeless and spent just over $51 to purchase a bus ticket for a client. The client had been in another state visiting his daughter and also trying to replace his identity documents; he was on his way back to be with his father where he was previously living when he got stuck in Albuquerque. He was very appreciative of the help we gave him. Thanks for helping us help others. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Christmas Eve Survey: The results are in! After considering those results, our Worship and Music team has decided that we will  be offering two services! Our 5:00pm service on the labyrinth will continue, as it has become very popular for many. There will also be a 7:00pm indoor service for those of you who prefer not to be out in the cold.
          The early service includes ambience and warmth provided by firepits, trails of luminarias, hot chocolate and cookies! If you dress warm and bring a comfortable chair, it promises to be a magical time together! The 7:00 service will be much the same but will also offer communion (and no firepits!). Both services will include Lessons and Carols! Please join us for one, or both! ~Jan Bowers (for your Worship and Music team)

November’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: HopeWorks Hygiene Kits. This month we are collecting items for both men and women—please pick up an items list in the Welcome Center and drop items in the basket. We will put them together after service on 1 Dec. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins
New socks           New underwear            Bar soap (travel size)              Razors
Mini shampoo     Mini conditioner            Deodorant (travel size)          Chapstick
Wet wipes           Feminine products        Lotion (travel size)          

Food Donations for The Storehouse. Food is always needed during the winter. Whenever you go shopping, please pick up an item or two of non-perishable foods for The Storehouse barrel at church.  Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Have you noticed the name tags on some of our newest community? Help them learn our names too! Please wear your name tag - they are found in the display box just inside the narthex. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Important! Scam emails and texts are circulating again, written as if from Pr. Koppel. Please be cautious about responding or opening! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel                    

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

The New Mexico Brass Quintet will be performing a Christmas program at St. Paul Lutheran Church on Sunday, December 15th at 2 pm.  The group will perform a wide range of music from the Baroque works of Henry Purcell to the movie music of John Williams and Alexander Courage of Star Trek.  In addition to seasonal Christmas music, the group will perform audience requests of favorite carols and a new arrangement (per numerous children requests) of the Mr. Grinch song.  In addition to releasing four commercial CDs, NMBQ has toured through the United States, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Mexico, China, Canada, Australia and the Ukraine. The program is free to all as a gift to the community and the congregation of St. Paul. ~Jeffrey Piper, Director

From Coro Lux:

In thanks for St. Paul’s hospitality (and not least because Kristi is part of the program!) we'd like to offer congregation members a 20% discount to either of our holiday concerts, The Feminine Divine, on December 15th (2 and 5 pm). To claim this discount, enter the code SPLC24 when checking out at: tickettailor.com/events/corolux/1362592?
          The Coro Lux "family of choruses" presents their annual holiday program, titled THE FEMININE DIVINE, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church (4020 Lomas Blvd., NE in Albuquerque) on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 2 pm and 5 pm. Both concerts are identical. The featured work will be J.S. Bach's Magnificat with full orchestra. Also appearing will be the El Faro Youth Chorus and the Coro Lux chamber chorus, called Luminare. An added bonus on this concert will be the world-premiere of "Luminous Night," a new Christmas work commissioned to celebrate Coro Lux's 10th anniversary season, written by the internationally-known composer Z. Randall Stroope. Musical selections will be interspersed with poetry and readings read by the Rev. Talitha Arnold and the Rev. Kristi Koppel. ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

A Message from Bishop Johnston Aelabouni: Dear friends, in this season of giving thanks, as we remember the gifts of the land and the people who have lived and given thanks here for hundreds and thousands of years, I’m thankful for the place my family and I have found ourselves. As time goes by, we feel more and more at home: in our house and neighborhood, in work and school, and in the sense of community we feel among the people and ministries of this synod.
Request for Prayers and Grace: As this time of transition continues, as your bishop, I am asking you for your prayers. In the decisions before us, I believe with my whole heart that your synod council, staffing team, office of the bishop staff, and I are all striving to discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit and to make decisions that are faithful, wise, transparent, collaborative, and compassionate. Please pray for us—and especially for our staff, whose vocational futures and livelihoods have been so connected to this transition time. Please pray for those who remain, for those who depart, and for those who are still uncertain—as well as for all those who are now discerning or applying for positions. 
          Also, please offer us your patience and grace as you are able. We have been operating in an in-between space for several months, and we will likely be working at diminished capacity in the coming weeks. While we discern who God is calling to serve on our synod team going forward, and work to build this team and clarify our roles and work together, please don’t hesitate to reach out with needs, questions, ideas, or concerns—but please also bear in mind that response times, schedules, and planning for our shared work will all be affected by being a team “under construction.” 
Finally, thank you for your support and trust. This is truly an amazing part of the body of Christ, and I am deeply hopeful and excited about the season of ministry we are entering together. I believe that with God’s help, these times can call out from us the gifts of the Spirit in ways that strengthen our witness to the Gospel, for the sake of our neighbors and the world God so loves. In Christ, Bishop Meghan, rmselca.org

2024 LSM Musical Advent Calendar. Experience the anticipation and hope of the Advent season with Lutheran Summer Music's fourth-annual Musical Advent Calendar. From December 1-24, immerse yourself in a daily moment of music and reflection shared on our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages and archived on our website at LSMacademy.org/acal.
          To have these daily videos delivered straight to your inbox, sign up at forms.gle/6Jw7DoDApTAgW4Uf6.

Updates Beginning 17 November 2024

Today: Emerging Ministry Celebration, New Member Welcome, and time for Q&A: This Sunday we celebrate this Emerging Ministry with our Spanish Speaking partners who are sharing space in our Chapel! Our bilingual service will include a special message from Father Q (Office of the Bishop) and welcome new members into our fold.  Following worship, grab your refreshments and return to the Sanctuary for a conversation to gain a deeper understanding of this Spirit-led opportunity to intentionally partner!  ~ Pr. Koppel

Next Sunday, 24 November, Congregational Meeting at 11am in Fellowship Hall. Agenda includes 2025 budget and elections (see below)! We are also having a Fellowship Potluck while we meet! We will have several pots of chili (both with meat and without). Please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Beverages provided. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

2025 SPLC Council. At the Congregational Meeting, among agenda items, in accordance with our St. Paul constitution and by-laws, we will be electing 4 members of St. Paul Lutheran Church to fill council positions that will be open in January 2025, after the completion of 4 members’ 3-year terms (Peggy Burnett, Sharon Hamilton, Roger Hein, and Jeff Peterson). If you are interested in becoming a member of our church council and are a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, please speak with anyone currently on council so that we may add your name to the ballot.  If you have questions about council, you may speak with Sara Love, council president; Peggy Burnett, council vice-president; or Nancy Jenkins, council secretary. ~Peggy Burnett

Advent is upon us! We will be staying after church next Sunday, 24 November, to decorate the Sanctuary for Advent. Grab some goodies and come back in! We'll be putting up the tree with lights, and hanging greens with blue bows around the perimeter. We have a faithful group, (you know who you are!) who gets this done every year, but we would certainly welcome ANY one's help! You know what they say about "many hands"! Thank you, in advance! ~Jan Bowers 

Important! Scam emails and texts are circulating again, written as if from Pr. Koppel. Please be cautious about responding or opening! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Christmas Eve Survey: The results are in! After considering those results, our Worship and Music team has decided that we will  be offering two services! Our 5:00pm service on the labyrinth will continue, as it has become very popular for many. There will also be a 7:00pm indoor service for those of you who prefer not to be out in the cold.
          The early service includes ambience and warmth provided by firepits, trails of luminarias, hot chocolate and cookies! If you dress warm and bring a comfortable chair, it promises to be a magical time together! The 7:00 service will be much the same but will also offer communion (and no firepits!). Both services will include Lessons and Carols! Please join us for one, or both! ~Jan Bowers (for your Worship and Music team)

Adopted Families: We will again be doing our Christmas thing - i.e., getting wish lists from some of our families and putting the wishes on our paper tree in the foyer. The tree should be up next Sunday (the Sunday before Thanksgiving). You will be able to choose a gift (or two) to buy; the wrapped gifts need to be returned by Sunday, December 22. You can also make a monetary donation by making a check payable to St. Paul, marking it for Adopted Families-Christmas, and placing it in the Sunday offering or church office. Thank you in advance for supporting our families during the holiday season. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

November’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: HopeWorks Hygiene Kits. This month we are collecting items for both men and women—please pick up an items list in the Welcome Center and drop items in the basket. We will put them together after service on 1 Dec. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

New socks           New underwear            Bar soap (travel size)              Razors
Mini shampoo     Mini conditioner            Deodorant (travel size)          Chapstick
Wet wipes           Feminine products        Lotion (travel size)        

Attention All Worship Leaders: I will be making the new schedules for Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants soon. If you currently serve in these roles, please let me know any dates between now and March 30, 2025 that you know you cannot serve. If you are not currently a communion assistant or assisting minister, please consider joining this important ministry. We always need new leaders. Training will happily be provided! Please talk to me or send an email if you would like more information about these jobs. ~Peace, Terry Cole for Worship and Music

Do you like to bake bread?  I am getting ready to write the schedule for the 2025 Communion Bread Bakers. We currently have 4: Mandy Wang, Jo Browning, Julie Ambrogi and Nancy Jenkins. We bake 4 times a year.  If you would like to join us, we would love to have you and we would bake fewer times!  I will provide you with the recipe which is an easy one! Please contact me if you want to join the baking team. ~Nancy Jenkins 

We collect dry and canned goods for The Storehouse.  Don't forget about the hungry in the midst of all our other collections.  Pet food is also appreciated. ~Nancy Matthews

Have you noticed the name tags on some of our newest community? Help them learn our names too! Please wear your name tag - they are found in the display box just inside the narthex. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Tomorrow:

From Coro Lux:

In thanks for St. Paul’s hospitality (and not least because Kristi is part of the program!) we'd like to offer congregation members a 20% discount to either of our holiday concerts, The Feminine Divine, on December 15th (2 and 5 pm). To claim this discount, enter the code SPLC24 when checking out at: tickettailor.com/events/corolux/1362592?
          The Coro Lux "family of choruses" presents their annual holiday program, titled THE FEMININE DIVINE, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church (4020 Lomas Blvd., NE in Albuquerque) on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 2 pm and 5 pm. Both concerts are identical. The featured work will be J.S. Bach's Magnificat with full orchestra. Also appearing will be the El Faro Youth Chorus and the Coro Lux chamber chorus, called Luminare. An added bonus on this concert will be the world-premiere of "Luminous Night," a new Christmas work commissioned to celebrate Coro Lux's 10th anniversary season, written by the internationally-known composer Z. Randall Stroope. Musical selections will be interspersed with poetry and readings read by the Rev. Talitha Arnold and the Rev. Kristi Koppel. ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

From ABQ FaithWorks: Thanks to the generous support from our member congregations this year, continues to help asylum seekers, and those at risk of homelessness. We are recruiting for all sorts of volunteer roles in direct service, administrative, IT, and fundraising. We would love to talk with you about your passion, skills, talent and time and find the right volunteer match for you! Go to https://www.abqfaithworks.org/copy-of-volunteer or give me a call at 505-333-8059. ~Hannah Albee, Executive Director

From Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM: Important Dates for your Calendar!

• Our annual Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon during the upcoming legislative session will take place on Thursday, February 20th. Events will be held at First Presbyterian Church and the La Fonda Hotel.

• A Hunger Action Day and Rally will be held on Friday, February 21st.

• An Action Day and Rally for the Paid Medical and Family Leave Act will take place on Tuesday, January 28th.

• The annual Disability Awareness Day at the capitol will be on Thursday, February 13th.

~Kurt Rager, Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Election 2024: What the Results Mean for Immigrants and Refugees. Global Refuge invites you to a webinar as we address these questions and more November 22 12 pm ET. We will discuss where the work of welcome stands after the election and share our next steps as we support and advocate for immigrants and refugees in these challenging times. https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2fQj1s_9SECplZN0m1Rywg#/registration

From Bread for the World: Year-End Donations doubled up to $500,000! Gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact of your generosity. Your gift will empower Bread for the World in its work to urge Congress to do its part to fight hunger. Working together, we can make a big difference this Christmas. https://www.bread.org/

Youth musicians are invited to Lutheran Summer Music! LSM is the nation’s premier faith-based music academy for high school students. Students come together from all over the country to immerse themselves in joyful music-making and build a supportive and welcoming community, living together on a college campus. LSM 2025 takes place at Valparaiso University in Indiana from June 22-July 20* (Full Session) or June 22-July 6 (Half Session) and is open to students who have completed grades 8-12. Learn more at: LSMacademy.org/program

Updates Beginning 10 November 2024

Today at Adult Faith Development: With the in-gathering of giving intentions, the Fall funding campaign is ending, but stewardship continues. Stewardship doesn't take place only in the Fall, and it doesn't end with money. It is far more than that. Come learn about what is ahead in stewardship and how it connects with the future of St. Paul. Along the way, we'll learn about some alternative ways of giving that can even help save money on your taxes. Join the adult class this Sunday after service at 11:15 in the Conference Room. This should be a lively conversation, and everyone is welcome to participate. ~Bob Matthews

Today: Next Sunday we will be using a new liturgy from the worship supplement All Creation Sings, Setting 11. This is a bilingual liturgy with very singable, but new, music. Anyone who would like to practice the liturgy ahead of time is invited to stay today, November 10, after worship. ~Terry Cole, Worship & Music

Next Sunday: Emerging Ministry Celebration, New Member Welcome, and time for Q&A: On November 17th we'll celebrate this Emerging Ministry with our Spanish Speaking partners who are sharing space in our Chapel!   Our bilingual service will include a special message from Father Q (Office of the Bishop) and welcome new members into our fold.  Following worship, grab your refreshments and return to the Sanctuary for a conversation to gain a deeper understanding of this Spirit-led opportunity to intentionally partner!  ~ Pr. Koppel

November’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: HopeWorks Hygiene Kits. This month we are collecting items for both men and women—please pick up an items list in the Welcome Center and drop items in the basket. We will put them together after service on 1 Dec. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

New socks           New underwear            Bar soap (travel size)              Razors
Mini shampoo     Mini conditioner            Deodorant (travel size)           Chapstick
Wet wipes           Feminine products        Lotion (travel size)          

Important! Scam emails and texts are circulating again, written as if from Pr. Koppel. Please be cautious about responding or opening! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Friends Feeding Friends:  To the group that prepared this month's meal, you did a great job!!  Thank you!  We had 29 pans of spaghetti, 12 containers of spring mix, 12 containers of cherry tomatoes, salad dressing, cookies, bread, and lemonade mix.  They were very grateful when I dropped off the carload of food.  I can't thank you enough! ~Nancy Jenkins, Coordinator

2025 SPLC Council. Our next Congregational Meeting is Sunday, November 24th, following our Worship service. Among agenda items, in accordance with our St. Paul constitution and by-laws, we will be electing 4 members of St. Paul Lutheran Church to fill council positions that will be open in January 2025, after the completion of 4 members’ 3-year terms (Peggy Burnett, Sharon Hamilton, Roger Hein, and Jeff Peterson). If you are interested in becoming a member of our church council and are a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, please speak with anyone currently on council so that we may add your name to the ballot.  If you have questions about council, you may speak with Sara Love, council president; Peggy Burnett, council vice-president; or Nancy Jenkins, council secretary. ~Peggy Burnett

Fellowship Potluck for our Congregational Meeting! We will have several pots of chili (both with meat and without). Please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Beverages provided. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Attention All Worship Leaders: I will be making the new schedules for Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants soon. If you currently serve in these roles, please let me know any dates between now and March 30, 2025 that you know you cannot serve. If you are not currently a communion assistant or assisting minister, please consider joining this important ministry. We always need new leaders. Training will happily be provided! Please talk to me or send an email if you would like more information about these jobs. ~Peace, Terry Cole for Worship and Music

Do you like to bake bread?  I am getting ready to write the schedule for the 2025 Communion Bread Bakers. We currently have 4: Mandy Wang, Jo Browning, Julie Ambrogi and Nancy Jenkins. We bake 4 times a year.  If you would like to join us, we would love to have you and we would bake fewer times!  I will provide you with the recipe which is an easy one! Please contact me if you want to join the baking team. ~Nancy Jenkins

We collect dry and canned goods for The Storehouse.  Don't forget about the hungry in the midst of all our other collections.  Pet food is also appreciated. ~Nancy Matthews

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni shares a post-election message with  the RM Synod: https://vimeo.com/1027192757?share=copy

This Saturday! 2024 Fall Advocacy Conference - Registration Now! ​We invite you to join us for our annual Fall Advocacy Conference! This wonderfully ecumenical event takes place on November 16th, at All Saints Lutheran Church in Albuquerque (same location as last year). Morning refreshments begin at 8:30 a.m. and the conference will conclude following lunch.
          The conference is open to anyone interested in learning more about advocating in the public arena on policy that positively impacts our many neighbors living in poverty and hunger, as well as the other key advocacy areas prioritized by Lutheran Advocacy Ministry - New Mexico.
          This year's conference will feature several guest speakers including, Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino (D) Sen. Dist. 12, Rep. Jason Harper (R) House Dist. 57, Rev. Wayne Mueller (advocate, minister, best-selling author), and others!
          Though we highly recommend in-person attendance for the most impactful experience, an online Zoom option will also be available and a link will be sent the week of the event.
        Lunch and morning refreshments will be provided for in-person participants as well as useful materials to take back to congregations.
          The in-person registration fee is $25 per person and online participation is $15. https://www.lutheranadvocacynm.org. ~Kurt A. Rager LAM-NM, Director krager@rmselca.org 

From RMS AMMPARO: U.S. Election Implications on Migration Policy in the Americas. This Thursday, November 14, 12-1:30pm ET. This webinar will explore potential shifts in U.S. migration policy following the election and the resulting impacts on regional cooperation and bilateral agreements; access to protection, pathways, and integration; and funding for enforcement and humanitarian efforts. Register at:
https://www.refugeesinternational.org/events-and-testimony/us-election-implications-on-migration-policy-in-the-americas/ 

Election 2024: What the Results Mean for Immigrants and Refugees. Global Refuge invites you to a webinar as we address these questions and more November 22 12 pm ET. We will discuss where the work of welcome stands after the election and share our next steps as we support and advocate for immigrants and refugees in these challenging times. https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2fQj1s_9SECplZN0m1Rywg#/registration

Updates Beginning 3 November 2024

Today at Adult Faith Development: Our denomination, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, is in the midst of a study of its governance and purpose.  The 35-member Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church, formed at the behest of 2022 Churchwide Assembly, has been charged with recommending updates to the way the ELCA “does church.”  Today’s adult education forum will look at the Commission’s work to date as well as review the history that has brought us to this point.  Hal Nilsson will lead the conversation that begins at 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room.

This Tuesday, November 5th has two events happening: 1) If you haven't already voted, this will be your last chance to do so, and 2) As usual, we will meet again for First Tuesday at SW Grape and Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE, between 4:00 - 6:00pm. All are invited to come and have social time with each other; bring a snack to share if you like.  We'll toast to the future health of our country. New members, come if you can so we can get to know you better! ~Nancy Matthews

Emerging Ministry Celebration, New Member Welcome, and time for Q&A: On November 17th we'll celebrate this Emerging Ministry with our Spanish Speaking partners who are sharing space in our Chapel!   Our bilingual service will include a special message from Father Q (Office of the Bishop) and welcome new members into our fold.  Following worship, grab your refreshments and return to the Sanctuary for a conversation to gain a deeper understanding of this Spirit-led opportunity to intentionally partner!  ~ Pr. Koppel

Greetings from Worship & Music: On November 17, we will be using a new liturgy from the worship supplement All Creation Sings (Setting 12). This is a bilingual liturgy with very singable, but new, music. Anyone who would like to practice the liturgy ahead of time is invited to stay after worship on November 10. ~Terry Cole

November’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: HopeWorks Hygiene Kits. This month we are collecting items for hygiene kits—please pick up an items list in the Welcome Center where the collection bin is located. We will put them together after service on 1 Dec. And Thank You! for all the coats collected for Dignity Mission in October!~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

2025 SPLC Council. Our next Congregational Meeting is Sunday, November 24th, following our Worship service. Among agenda items, in accordance with our St. Paul constitution and by-laws, we will be electing 4 members of St. Paul Lutheran Church to fill council positions that will be open in January 2025, after the completion of 4 members’ 3-year terms (Peggy Burnett, Sharon Hamilton, Roger Hein, and Jeff Peterson). If you are interested in becoming a member of our church council and are a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, please speak with anyone currently on council so that we may add your name to the ballot.  If you have questions about council, you may speak with Sara Love, council president; Peggy Burnett, council vice-president; or Nancy Jenkins, council secretary. ~Peggy Burnett

Attention All Worship Leaders: I will be making the new schedules for Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants soon. If you currently serve in these roles, please let me know any dates between now and March 30, 2025 that you know you cannot serve. If you are not currently a communion assistant or assisting minister, please consider joining this important ministry. We always need new leaders. Training will happily be provided! Please talk to me or send an email if you would like more information about these jobs. ~Peace, Terry Cole for Worship and Music

Prayer Shawls Are Available in the Narthex! Please pick one up for anyone who could use a warm, cuddly prayer shawl for comfort. This ministry provides a tangible reminder that God wraps us in love. If you would like to knit or crochet a shawl, please pick up some yarn and patterns in the church office to get started. ~Sharon Hamilton

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Have you noticed the name tags on some of our newest community? Help them learn our names too! Please wear your name tag - they are found in the display box just inside the narthex (ask directions, if needed). Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

We collect dry and canned goods for The Storehouse.  Don't forget about the hungry in the midst of all our other collections.  Pet food is also appreciated. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

From ABQ FaithWorks: Thanks to the generous support from our member congregations this year, continues to help asylum seekers, and those at risk of homelessness. We are recruiting for all sorts of volunteer roles in direct service, administrative, IT, and fundraising. We would love to talk with you about your passion, skills, talent and time and find the right volunteer match for you! Go to https://www.abqfaithworks.org/copy-of-volunteer or give me a call at 505-333-8059. ~Hannah Albee, Executive Director

Time To Order Your Luminarias! Every season since 1981, ABQ Youth Symphony students and families fold, assemble, and sell thousands of dozens of luminarias across the Albuquerque metro area. Proceeds support AYSP's symphonic music education programs in our vibrant community that serve approximately 400 students annually in grades 4-12. Luminarias are $12/dozen. Order online by Nov 24 for delivery Dec 7 (min. delivery order is 4 dozen). Fewer than 4 dozen can be picked up Dec 14 at the AYSP building: https://www.aysmusic.org/luminarias/

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From the Rocky Mountain Synod: Dear beloved people of God, As the fall colors descend across our synod, election season has officially arrived. That means it's time to vote! Voting when guided by our faithful values is "an exercise in citizenship" and "a vital aspect of discipleship for baptized Christians," in the words of our ELCA Social Message on Government and Civic Engagement. In the midst of this busy season, our church has created and curated a number of excellent resources about elections, voting, and civic participation. This information is designed to help accompany you through this often-anxious yet critically important time. We remember in this season that we are people of faith, and we live in the promise that God accompanies us through all our trials and tribulations. This election season has put many of us on edge, so let us cling to the promises of Jesus: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid" (John 14:27). Peace be with you in the days ahead. ~Deacon Sarah Bjornebo, Assistant to the RMS Bishop, rmselca.org

Message from the Bishops: Faith Beyond Fear, An Ecumenical Message for Truth and Unity in a Divisive Election Season. From Meghan Johnston Aelabouni, RMS bishop, Kym Lucas, bishop of the Episcopal Church in Colorado, Kristin Stoneking, bishop of the Mountain Sky Conference of the United Methodist Church: https://vimeo.com/1024540905/40119d647b

On Election Day, Nov 5th, there is a local prayer service opportunity at Holy Cross Lutheran Church (6901 Wyoming Blvd NE). Holy Cross will open its sanctuary from 10am-5pm for individual prayers and fellowship as well. Refreshments and coffee will be available throughout. ~Kurt Rager, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM

Election 2024: What the Results Mean for Immigrants and Refugees. Global Refuge invites you to a webinar as we address these questions and more November 22 12 pm ET. We will discuss where the work of welcome stands after the election and share our next steps as we support and advocate for immigrants and refugees in these challenging times. https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2fQj1s_9SECplZN0m1Rywg#/registration

Dear Partners in Advocacy, I am delighted to share that the registration link for our 2024 Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM Fall Advocacy Conference is now live! I hope you have been marking November 16th, from 8:30 to 1 p.m., on your calendars. The conference will again be held at All Saints Lutheran Church in Albuquerque. This year I have invited two legislators who are bringing to a close their public service in the New Mexico Legislature, Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino (D) and Rep. Jason Harper (R), and have asked them to speak about their experiences, their thoughts on challenges and opportunities in public policy moving forward, and the importance of New Mexicans being involved in the legislative process.
          Additionally, I have invited Wayne Mueller as a keynote speaker. Wayne is an executive leadership mentor, therapist, minister, community advocate, consultant, public speaker, and bestselling author of several books. A graduate of Harvard Divinity School, Wayne has spent the last thirty-five years working with people suffering from abuse, alcoholism, poverty, illness, and loss. Though not entirely, a significant part of Wayne's reflection will be drawn from the lead-up to and the aftermath of our election on November 5th.
          Though we highly recommend in-person attendance for the most impactful experience, an online Zoom option will also be available and a link will be sent the week of the event. Lunch and morning refreshments will be provided for in-person participants as well as useful materials to take back to congregations. The in-person registration fee is $25 per person and online participation is $15. https://www.lutheranadvocacynm.org. ~Kurt A. Rager LAM-NM, Director krager@rmselca.org

From Lutheran World Relief: Ten containers of LWR Quilts & Kits have reached communities in the southeastern U.S. that were devastated by hurricanes Helene and Milton. Recipients included residents of a shelter for homeless veterans in Asheville, NC, that was badly flooded during the storm. Watch to see these gifts being made, packed, prayed over and shipped: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbnVHtS-TKs. Give at: lwr.org/helene-recovery

Updates Beginning 27 October 2024

Today the Adult Faith Development group will be discussing Saints we have known.  Is there a person in your life who became a mentor to you?  Perhaps they helped guide you on your faith journey or maybe they listened to you when you needed a compassionate ear. The person can be someone from your past or even someone you rely on currently.  How did they become a saint to you?  We encourage you to get a snack and some coffee and come to the conference room to join us in this discussion.  We begin at 11:15 and attempt to end our conversation between noon and 12:15. We would welcome your participation!  ~Jan Krakow for the Adult Faith Development team

From Calico Butterfly Preschool: This Thursday, October 31st, come and help us make a special day for our Calico children as they parade in their Halloween costumes. We will gather at 10am on the sidewalk at the south side of the building. You will enjoy their excitement and will be delighted by their costumes. All you need to do is to wish them Happy Halloween as they parade by you! If you would like to bring candy to hand out, please, no hard candies or ones with nuts. Thanks! ~Marisol Flores-Gutierrez

2025 SPLC Council. Our next Congregational Meeting is Sunday, November 24th, following our Worship service. Among agenda items, in accordance with our St. Paul constitution and by-laws, we will be electing 4 members of St. Paul Lutheran Church to fill council positions that will be open in January 2025, after the completion of 4 members’ 3-year terms (Peggy Burnett, Sharon Hamilton, Roger Hein, and Jeff Peterson). If you are interested in becoming a member of our church council and are a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, please speak with anyone currently on council so that we may add your name to the ballot.  If you have questions about council, you may speak with Sara Love, council president; Peggy Burnett, council vice-president; or Nancy Jenkins, council secretary. ~Peggy Burnett

Tuesday, November 5th has two events happening: 1) If you haven't already voted, this will be your last chance to do so, and 2) As usual, we will meet again for First Tuesday at SW Grape and Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE, between 4:00 - 6:00pm. All are invited to come and have social time with each other; bring a snack to share if you like.  We'll toast to the future health of our country. New members, come if you can so we can get to know you better! ~Nancy Matthews

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

Greetings from Worship & Music: On November 17, Father Quirino Cornejo, from the RMS Bishop’s Office will lead a discussion about our emerging Spanish speaking ministry in the Sanctuary immediately following worship. On this day, we are inviting our partners (who usually worship in our Chapel at 11:30) to worship with us so that we can officially welcome them into the St. Paul family. We will be using a new liturgy from the worship supplement All Creation Sings (Setting 12). This is a bilingual liturgy with very singable, but new, music. Anyone who would like to practice the liturgy ahead of time is invited to stay after worship on November 10. ~Terry Cole

Attention All Worship Leaders: I will be making the new schedules for Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants soon. If you currently serve in these roles, please let me know any dates between now and March 30, 2025 that you know you cannot serve. If you are not currently a communion assistant or assisting minister, please consider joining this important ministry. We always need new leaders. Training will happily be provided! Please talk to me or send an email if you would like more information about these jobs. ~Peace, Terry Cole for Worship and Music

Prayer Shawls Are Available in the Narthex! Thank you to all who have been filling the basket once again. This ministry provides a tangible reminder that God wraps us in love. Please pick one up for anyone who could use a warm, cuddly prayer shawl for comfort. If you would like to knit or crochet a shawl, please pick up some yarn and patterns in the church office to get started. ~Sharon Hamilton

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

October’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: Coat Drive for Dignity Mission. We are collecting new, or gently used and very clean, coats—for all sizes and all ages! Dignity Mission delivers a truckload of supplies to El Paso every six weeks for asylum seekers. St. Paul is partnering in this coat drive with All Saints Lutheran. There is a collection bin in the Welcome Center. Thank you! to all who have already donated in support of our neighbors to the south as we approach the colder months. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Have you noticed the name tags on some of our newest community? Help them learn our names too! Please wear your name tag - they are found in the display box just inside the narthex (ask directions, if needed). Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

We collect dry and canned goods for The Storehouse.  Don't forget about the hungry in the midst of all our other collections.  Pet food is also appreciated. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will meet for the annual World Community Day celebration this Friday, November 1st at St. Luke Lutheran Church at 9100 Menaul Blvd NE. The meeting will begin at 9:30am for coffee fellowship, followed by the program which concentrates on the theme of “Humility” from Matthew 5:5. Rev. Patty Davison will lead a Bible study, followed by a presentation of the work of the Compassion Services Center in the International District by Pastor Joanne Landry. A collection of bath towels and feminine hygiene products will be gathered for the Center. Join us and bring a friend!  Questions?  Please contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-463-3657.

Thanks to the generous support from our member congregations this year, ABQ FaithWorks continues to help asylum seekers, and those at risk of homelessness. We are recruiting for all sorts of volunteer roles in direct service, administrative, IT, and fundraising. We would love to talk with you about your passion, skills, talent and time and find the right volunteer match for you! Go to https://www.abqfaithworks.org/copy-of-volunteer or give me a call at 505-333-8059. ~Hannah Albee, Executive Director

Next Sunday:

Time To Order Your Luminarias! Every season since 1981, Albuquerque Youth Symphony students and families fold, assemble, and sell thousands of dozens of luminarias across the Albuquerque metro area. Proceeds support AYSP's symphonic music education programs in our vibrant community that serve approximately 400 students annually in grades 4-12.
AYSP luminarias are priced at $12 per dozen. Order your luminarias online by November 24 for delivery on December 7 (minimum order for delivery is 4 dozen). Fewer than 4 dozen can be picked up on December 14 at the AYSP building. Order at: https://www.aysmusic.org/luminarias/

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Lutheran World Relief Urgent Response: In devastated communities throughout the Southeast, families are left without food, water or shelter. With you by our side, we're teaming up with local organizations to help meet the most urgent needs, including food, water and shelter. And we're rushing Personal Care Kits and Mission Quilts to families who've lost everything. Give by October 31 at: https://lwr.org/ (Emergency Alert).

Sacred Crossroads: Immigration and the 2024 Election. This new AMMPARO resource guide is posted in the Welcome Center and can be downloaded at: https://resources.elca.org/. Use this nonpartisan resource to explore key facts about immigration (one of the most important issues informing the upcoming U.S. national election) reflect on how Christian values compel us to pursue justice, help the oppressed, promote human dignity and human flourishing, and pray for a government that serves all neighbors.

Dear Partners in Advocacy, I am delighted to share that the registration link for our 2024 Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM Fall Advocacy Conference is now live! I hope you have been marking November 16th, from 8:30 to 1 p.m., on your calendars. The conference will again be held at All Saints Lutheran Church in Albuquerque. This year I have invited two legislators who are bringing to a close their public service in the New Mexico Legislature, Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino (D) and Rep. Jason Harper (R), and have asked them to speak about their experiences, their thoughts on challenges and opportunities in public policy moving forward, and the importance of New Mexicans being involved in the legislative process.
          Additionally, I have invited Wayne Mueller as a keynote speaker. Wayne is an executive leadership mentor, therapist, minister, community advocate, consultant, public speaker, and bestselling author of several books. A graduate of Harvard Divinity School, Wayne has spent the last thirty-five years working with people suffering from abuse, alcoholism, poverty, illness, and loss. Though not entirely, a significant part of Wayne's reflection will be drawn from the lead-up to and the aftermath of our election on November 5th.
          Though we highly recommend in-person attendance for the most impactful experience, an online Zoom option will also be available and a link will be sent the week of the event. Lunch and morning refreshments will be provided for in-person participants as well as useful materials to take back to congregations. The in-person registration fee is $25 per person and online participation is $15. https://www.lutheranadvocacynm.org. ~Kurt A. Rager Director, LAM-NM, krager@rmselca.org

Election 2024: What the Results Mean for Immigrants and Refugees. Global Refuge invites you to join us as we address these questions and more at our special webinar, on November 22 at 12 pm ET. We will discuss where the work of welcome stands after the election and share our next steps as we support and advocate for immigrants and refugees in these challenging times. https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2fQj1s_9SECplZN0m1Rywg#/registration

Updates Beginning 20 October 2024

Today we wrap up a three-part Bible Study entitled After Certainty by our new Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni. This gives us an opportunity to learn what it means to live in faith when it may feel like the days of predictability and stability are behind us in the wake of a worldwide pandemic, escalating climate change, political turmoil and a changing religious landscape. This week’s focus is Compassion. A copy of the study will be available, but you don't need to study ahead to take part. Come and join the discussion in the Conference Room at 11:15—all are welcome! ~Shirley Nilsson

Remembering the Saints, November 3. All Saints will be upon us before we know it! The Visual Choir will once again be hanging our All Saints photo banners. Many of you have loved ones (Our Saints) represented on these memorial collages. They have proven to be very effective in remembering those who have gone before us!
For anyone who would like to add a photo of someone who has died this year, please bring or email your photo with all of the pertinent information. Your photos will be printed in black and white for the banners and will be displayed on our "Dia de los Muertos" ofrenda, in color or as you provide. You will have your photo returned to you unharmed.
There is a box in the Welcome Center for you to submit them (or hand them to me, Jo Browning, Jan Krakow, Karen Bunch, Shirley Nilsson, or Kathy Callahan) or email them to: janobowers68@gmail.com by today, October 20. Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Trick or Treat Candy for Martineztown: St. Paul donates bags of wrapped candies for the annual Halloween event for our neighbors in Martineztown. This year our Martineztown Work Group (St. Paul, 2nd Presbyterian and San Ignacio Catholic) is working with the new city-run Community Center there to have a Halloween gathering on Oct. 30. There is a box in the Welcome Center. Please bring bags in by today, Oct. 20. ~Ivan Westergaard

From Calico Butterfly Preschool: Come and help us make a special day for our Calico children as they parade in their Halloween costumes. We will gather at 10:00 Thursday, October 31st on the sidewalk at the south side of the building. You will enjoy their excitement and will be delighted by their costumes. All you need to do is to wish them Happy Halloween as they parade by you! If you would like to bring candy to hand out, please, no hard candies or ones with nuts. Thanks! ~Marisol Flores-Gutierrez

October’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: Coat Drive for Dignity Mission. This month we are collecting new, or gently used and very clean, coats—for all sizes and all ages! Dignity Mission delivers a truckload of supplies to El Paso every six weeks for asylum seekers. St. Paul is partnering in this coat drive with All Saints Lutheran. There is a collection bin in the Welcome Center or you can drop them off in the Office. Thank you! to all who have already donated in support of our neighbors to the south as we approach the colder months. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Tuesday, November 5th has two events happening: 1) If you haven't already voted, this will be your last chance to do so, and 2) As usual, we will meet again for First Tuesday at SW Grape and Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE, between 4:00 - 6:00pm. All are invited to come and have social time with each other; bring a snack to share if you like.  We'll toast to the future health of our country. New members, come if you can so we can get to know you better! ~Nancy Matthews

Greetings from Worship & Music: On November 17, Father Quirino Cornejo, from the RMS Bishop’s Office will lead a discussion about our emerging Spanish speaking ministry in the Sanctuary immediately following worship. On this day, we are inviting our partners (who usually worship in our Chapel at 11:30) to worship with us so that we can officially welcome them into the St. Paul family. We will be using a new liturgy from the worship supplement All Creation Sings (Setting 12). This is a bilingual liturgy with very singable, but new, music. Anyone who would like to practice the liturgy ahead of time is invited to stay after worship on November 10. ~Terry Cole

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

Have you noticed the name tags on some of our newest community? Help them learn our names too! Please wear your name tag - they are found in the display box just inside the narthex (ask directions, if needed).  Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

We collect dry and canned goods for The Storehouse.  Don't forget about the hungry in the midst of all our other collections.  Pet food is also appreciated. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Ally Event: Gathering for Gaza. Today, Sunday, 10/20 from 1-4 PM, Chispas Farm: 229 Saavedra Rd SW. Celebrate the Jewish Harvest Festival of Sukkot with the ABQ Tzedek Collective and build community and raise funds for Healing Our Homeland, a Palestinian-led, grassroots project providing direct aid in Gaza. For info and to rsvp: bit.ly/gather-for-gaza-rsvp. ~Jewish Voices for Peace Albuquerque

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will meet for the annual World Community Day celebration on Friday, November 1st at St. Luke Lutheran Church at 9100 Menaul Blvd NE. The meeting will begin at 9:30am for coffee fellowship, followed by the program which concentrates on the theme of “Humility” from Matthew 5:5. Rev. Patty Davison will lead a Bible study, followed by a presentation of the work of the Compassion Services Center in the International District by Pastor Joanne Landry. A collection of bath towels and feminine hygiene products will be gathered for the Center. Join us and bring a friend!  Questions?  Please contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-463-3657.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Greetings and gratitude from Bishop Johnston Aelabouni:
I thank you God for most this amazing day…
Dear friends in Christ, the celebration of my installation as bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod on October 5 truly echoed this verse sung by the installation choir. It was indeed an amazing day: a day of prayer and song in English and Spanish, scripture read in Bahasa Indonesian and Malagasy, and the proclamation of the Gospel from Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. We gave thanks for the gift of baptism with water from the rivers of our synod, our camps, our New Beginnings community inside the Denver Women’s Correctional Facility, and synod partners in Wisconsin and Madagascar. Our congregation included members, deacons, and pastors from every area of our synod, from El Paso to Wyoming; and friends and partners from throughout and beyond the ELCA; as well as nine current ELCA bishops, three ecumenical bishops, two former bishops of our synod, and Presiding Bishop Eaton (and a partridge in a pear tree!) And while not everyone in our synod could be physically present, and the current war in the Holy Land prevented our invited preacher, Pastor Sally Azar of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, from joining us, we also felt the presence of the body of Christ throughout our synod, the ELCA, and the global Lutheran communion who joined us on livestream.
                In the ELCA congregation in California where I was a youth, a sign at the rear of our sanctuary read: “The worship has ended; let the service begin!” In that spirit, with the installation behind us, our shared service in the Gospel has only just begun! I am looking forward with excitement to all that God will call and equip us to do together. May the Holy Spirit who filled our worship continue to fill our hearts and minds with faith, courage, and inspiration as we embark on this season of ministry as one church!
In Christ, Bishop Meghan

A Special Bread For The World Strategy Briefing is on October 28th, at 6pm ET via Zoom. During the call, you will hear from a variety of speakers, including Managing Director Rev. Heather Taylor. You will be informed – and inspired – to hear about the impact you are having on Bread’s work to get Congress to do more to address global hunger and to help vulnerable families in the U.S. We will also update you on the Nourish Our Future campaign, post-election strategy, and what you can do by advocating in your own community. Register at: go.bread.org/page/74002/survey/1

Lutheran World Relief Urgent Response: In devastated communities throughout the Southeast, families are left without food, water or shelter. With you by our side, we're teaming up with local organizations to help meet the most urgent needs, including food, water and shelter. And we're rushing Personal Care Kits and Mission Quilts to families who've lost everything. Our teams — and your neighbors who are suffering — are counting on your love, prayers and support. Give by October 31 at: https://lwr.org/ (Emergency Alert).

Sacred Crossroads: Immigration and the 2024 Election. This new AMMPARO resource guide is posted in the Welcome Center. We can make copies in the Office (it is not available yet on the ELCA website). Use this nonpartisan resource to explore key facts about immigration (one of the most important issues informing the upcoming U.S. national election) reflect on how Christian values compel us to pursue justice, help the oppressed, promote human dignity and human flourishing, and pray for a government that serves all neighbors. This resource raises the importance of centering our values as well as the perspectives of others, includes guidance from ELCA social teaching, facts and statistics about immigration, offers prayer, questions for personal reflection, and questions for candidates for elected office, and more!

Updates Beginning 13 October 2024

Today we continue a three-part Bible Study entitled After Certainty by our new Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni. This gives us an opportunity to learn what it means to live in faith when it may feel like the days of predictability and stability are behind us in the wake of a worldwide pandemic, escalating climate change, political turmoil and a changing religious landscape. Last week’s focus was Curiosity, today’s is Community,  and next week’s is Compassion. In the process of reviewing Bishop Aelabourni's studies, we will certainly learn more about the author, as well, which will be an added bonus to our work together. Come and join the discussions. A copy of each study will be available, but you don't need to study ahead to take part. Join us in the Conference Room at 11:15—all are welcome! ~Shirley Nilsson

Remembering the Saints, November 3. All Saints will be upon us before we know it! The Visual Choir will once again be hanging our All Saints photo banners. Many of you have loved ones (Our Saints) represented on these memorial collages. They have proven to be very effective in remembering those who have gone before us!
For anyone who would like to add a photo of someone who has died this year, please bring or email your photo with all of the pertinent information. Your photos will be printed in black and white for the banners and will be displayed on our "Dia de los Muertos" ofrenda, in color or as you provide. You will have your photo returned to you unharmed.
There will be a box in the Welcome Center for you to submit them (or hand them to me, Jo Browning, Jan Krakow, Karen Bunch, Shirley Nilsson, or Kathy Callahan) or email them to: janobowers68@gmail.com by October 20. Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Trick or Treat Candy for Martineztown: For several years St. Paul has  provided bags of wrapped candies for the annual Halloween event for our neighbors in Martineztown. This year our Martineztown Work Group is working with the new city-run Community Center there to have a Halloween gathering on Oct. 30. There will be a box in the entry area for bags of candies. Please bring bags by Oct. 20. (The Work Group is St. Paul, 2nd Presbyterian and San Ignacio Catholic Churches.) ~- Ivan Westergaard

Adopted Families: A client advocate from Healthcare for the Homeless called me looking for help with bus tickets for two of her clients. We had just enough money in our account to handle both tickets. The first was for a man who was highly motivated to relocate to the place where he could work with CYFD to regain custody of his two children who were recently removed from the care of their mother. The bus didn't go all the way to the town but he had a friend who would come get him and then put him up until he could get settled in an apartment. The second ticket was for another highly motivated man to move to the city where his mother is located; she has him booked in a treatment center. Together the tickets cost about $174. Thank you for enabling me to help these clients who are making a real effort to better their situations. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

October’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: Coat Drive for Dignity Mission. This month we are collecting new, or gently used and very clean, coats—for all sizes and all ages! Dignity Mission delivers a truckload of supplies to El Paso every six weeks for asylum seekers. St. Paul is partnering in this coat drive with All Saints Lutheran. There is a collection bin in the Welcome Center or you can drop them off in the Office. Thank you for supporting our neighbors to the south as we approach the colder months. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Opportunities to Donate:

• Fires and floods have put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.

• We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.

• We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.

Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Please join us on Thursday, October 17 for Walk With Us: Building Friendship and Community! We are partnering with Hillel House UNM, Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, and #WeWalkWithShawn to host a community walk and talk. Yes, Shawn Dromgoole is walking with us! (WewalkwithShawn.org)
This is a designated time to walk with our neighbors and get to know each other better. We will gather at Luther House (1805 Las Lomas Rd. NE) at 5:30pm for snacks. The walk begins at 6:10pm and meanders through UNM central campus. We will take another snack break at the Student Union Building and walk and talk our way to Hillel House for a Sukkot Celebration! All are welcome to join us for this amazing event. ~Blessings, Pastor Rhonda, Luther House UNM & CNM

Ally Event: Gathering for Gaza. Sunday, 10/20 from 1-4 PM, Chispas Farm: 229 Saavedra Rd SW. Celebrate the Jewish Harvest Festival of Sukkot with the ABQ Tzedek Collective and build community and raise funds for Healing Our Homeland, a Palestinian-led, grassroots project providing direct aid in Gaza. For info and to rsvp: bit.ly/gather-for-gaza-rsvp

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From Bp. Johnston Aelabouni: Hurricanes Helene & Milton - How Can You Respond?

Pray

Jesus, when you speak peace, your words calm storms and comfort fears.
Extend your power and grace to all impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Speak peace and healing over bodies and spirits broken by the chaos.
Speak peace and hope over families and communities devastated by sudden loss.
Speak peace and unity over devastated populations and economies.
Speak peace and justice over distribution centers, insurance claims, and reconstruction efforts.
Speak peace and protection over rescue workers and all who are transporting aid to isolated areas.
Jesus, speak peace.
Into your hands, O Loving Savior, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy and your peace -- Amen.

Inspired by a prayer written by Lisa Ann Moss Degrenia, "A Prayer for Storm Survivors" from the blog, "Turning the Word".

Give

Donate to Lutheran Disaster Response which will support both short-and-long-term recovery across the Southeast: community.elca.org/givenow:

• Choose “I would like to choose an area for this gift to support”

• Choose “Lutheran Disaster Response”

• Choose "Where Needed Most"

• Write "Disaster Fund" in the memo field.

World Food Day is this Tuesday, 15 October. A Message from Bishop Eaton: “ELCA World Hunger is a great example of how we are church together and church for the sake of the world. I have witnessed firsthand the impact of ELCA World Hunger on communities around the world. During a trip to the Yunnan province of China, I had the opportunity to visit with the Lisu people at a farm where they grew medicinal herbs to help support their families with food and clothing. The partnership with ELCA World Hunger changed traditional farming methods to help lift people out of poverty. We are grateful for the generosity of ELCA members and others who have responded to God’s promise of a just world where all are fed. We look forward to the next 50 years of transformational work through ELCA World Hunger.” ~Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton

Bread for the World has set a goal to raise $15,000 for World Food Day to support our advocacy to end hunger. This year’s World Food Day theme is “Right to food for a better life and a better future.” At Bread, we believe wholeheartedly in this message. Hunger is not inevitable, and that’s why we advocate tirelessly for good policy decisions to get food to those who need it: https://www.bread.org/

West, Southwest, and Midwest Regional Online Meeting. This Wednesday, October 16 at 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET: In addition to a full report on Nourish Our Future, we will share an update on the farm bill and bring you up to speed on Bread advocacy in your region. Don’t miss it! Register at: https://www.bread.org/event/2024-october-regional-online-meetings/

A special strategy briefing via Zoom on Monday, October 28th, at 6:00 p.m. (ET). During the call, you will hear from a variety of speakers, including Managing Director Rev. Heather Taylor. You and other Bread for the World leaders will be informed – and I hope, inspired – to hear about the impact you are having on our work to get Congress to do more to address global hunger and to help vulnerable families in the U.S. We will also update you on our ongoing Nourish Our Future campaign, post-election strategy, and what you can do by advocating in your own community. Register at: https://go.bread.org/page/74002/survey/1

Urgent Response: Disasters Continue to Strike God’s Children. In devastated communities throughout the Southeast, families are left without food, water or shelter. With you by our side, we're teaming up with local organizations to help meet the most urgent needs, including food, water and shelter. And we're rushing Personal Care Kits and Mission Quilts to families who've lost everything. Our teams — and your neighbors who are suffering — are counting on your love, prayers and support. Give by October 31 at: https://lwr.org/ (Emergency Alert).

Lutheran World Relief’s Autumn Special Report is posted in the Welcome Center and available at https://lwr.org/

You're invited to nominate students for Lutheran Summer Music 2025. LSM is the nation's premier faith-based residential music academy for high school students. Each year, young musicians come together from around the country to immerse themselves in musical excellence and build a supportive and fun community, sharing musical gifts in performance and in worship. Priority Enrollment is open now through December 1. Application fees increase and spots fill through the year, so we encourage students to apply early. https://www.lsmacademy.org/nominate

The ELCA Conference of Bishops met Sept. 24-28 in Chicago. To read a recap of that week’s actions, visit: https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8248

Reconciling Works October newsletter is posted in the Welcome Center and available here: https://www.reconcilingworks.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/October-2024-RWKS-Newsletter-1.pdf

Updates Beginning 6 October 2024

Thank You! to everyone who made Monday night’s dinner for the Malagasy Presidents so special! We had 50 in attendance, and representatives from 3 other Lutheran congregations as well as Luther Place and St. Paul!  A special thank you to Mino, Sara and Terry for all their efforts to make this visit happen. ~Pr. Koppel

Today in Adult Faith Development: We will get to know our newly installed RMS bishop, Meghan Johnston Aelabouni, through her three-part Bible study, After Certainty, from the Women of the ELCA’s Gather magazine. Shirley Nilsson will lead this session. This series focuses on what it means to live in faith after certainty. In these years of a worldwide pandemic, escalating climate change, political turmoil and a changing religious landscape, it may feel like the days of predictability and stability are behind us. What will the future bring now? Join us in the Conference Room at 11:15—all are welcome! ~Deborah Ash

Trick or Treat Candy for Martineztown: For several years St. Paul has  provided bags of wrapped candies for the annual Halloween event for our neighbors in Martineztown. This year our Martineztown Work Group is working with the new city-run Community Center there to have a Halloween gathering on Oct. 30. There will be a box in the entry area for bags of candies. Please bring bags by Oct. 20. (The Work Group is St. Paul, 2nd Presbyterian and San Ignacio Catholic Churches.) ~- Ivan Westergaard

Sewing Machine Update: We are pleased to announce that the two sewing machines that have been residents of the St. Paul sewing closet for at least the past ten years have found new homes.

• The newer 1960-ish Singer Rocket model has found a home with Diana Mullen, who is thrilled to have it.

• The antique Singer treadle machine has found a home at the Albuquerque Little Theatre. Dana Mullen reached out to them to see if they might be interested. They are excited to be able to add it to their collection of props. It is expected to make its debut in the Beauty and the Beast play in a couple of months.

While we appreciate your gifts and thoughtfulness, because of our limited storage space, the St. Paul Sewing Group will no longer be accepting sewing machine donations. ~Peggy Burnett, Susan Latella, Marsha Kearney

October’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: Coat Drive for Dignity Mission. This month we are collecting new, or gently used and very clean, coats—for all sizes and all ages! Dignity Mission delivers a truckload of supplies to El Paso every six weeks for asylum seekers. St. Paul is partnering in this coat drive with All Saints Lutheran. There is a collection bin in the Welcome Center or you can drop them off in the Office. Thank you for supporting our neighbors to the south as we approach the colder months. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

Adopted Families: We have become aware of several families (refugees) who are in need of blankets. If you can donate new, or gently used and very clean, blankets for them, please put them in the narthex coatroom or call Kay if you need someone to pick them up. Thank you! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate:

• Fires and floods have put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.

• We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.

• We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.

Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today at St. Paul:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

This Saturday, RMS Creation Care Team : Zoom Nature Connection Workshop October 12th, 10am. An opportunity to pause “business as usual” and allow a reconnection with ourselves, our surroundings, and our source. As Nigerian philosopher, Bayo Akomolafe, says, “The times are urgent, let us slow down.” During our time together, participants will reflect on the current state of the world, and practice honoring our pains for our world as we practice moving that pain while reconnecting with the Earth and each other. It's a chance to remember that we are part of nature and learn practices for how to have the ability to draw wisdom from the Earth for guidance, resilience, and inspiration. I am excited to share this experience with you as we navigate these challenges together. Please RSVP at sheri@yourpathcoach.org no later than Friday, October 11 will aid in preparing for the event and provide you with more information. Feel free to reach out in the meantime as well, with any questions.

Lutheran Disaster Response to Hurricane Helene: “We can't yet know what we're facing in terms of damage … but I do know [this],” says the Rev. Timothy Smith, bishop of the North Carolina Synod. “Lutheran Disaster Response, in partnership with our synod, along with other helpers, will be there for the long haul, and we will rally around our congregations, camps and communities.” LDR has strong relationships in the region and is already at work on the ground. Working alongside synods and other partners, Lutheran Disaster Response is prepared to provide support throughout the impacted region: ELCA.org/hurricanes

World Food Day is Tuesday, October 15! Join ELCA World Hunger at 7pm Central that day for an online celebration of World Food Day and the 50th anniversary of ELCA World Hunger. Hear firsthand stories from partners at ELCA World Hunger projects — including Educación Popular en Salud (EPES), a community health organization in Chile founded over 40 years ago, and more recent starts such as Tapestry Farms, a Midwestern urban farm system in the “Quad Cities” of Iowa and Illinois. You’ll see the impact of 50 years of ELCA World Hunger work and get excited and equipped to be a part of the next 50 years! Zoom registration: elca.org/wh50

Updates Beginning 29 September 2024

Today, 29 September: Sometimes it seems like doomsday. We are surrounded by wars, famine, and death. Climate change is raging ahead unchecked. And we seem to be powerless to do anything about any of it. This Sunday morning, the adult class will see and hear Brian McLaren talking about his new book Life after Doom: wisdom and courage for a world falling apart. There will be time for discussion on this crucial topic. Join us after the service at 11:15 in the Conference Room. Everyone (and we do mean everyone) is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

Tomorrow, 30 September at 6pm: Please plan to attend!

~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

This week will be the First Tuesday of October!  Come join us at SW Grape and Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE any time between 4-6pm, to share conversation over snacks and drinks.  See you then! ~Nancy Matthews

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

Adopted Families: We have become aware of several families (refugees) who are in need of blankets. If you can donate new or gently used and very clean blankets for them, please put them in the narthex coatroom or call Kay if you need someone to pick them up. We appreciate the blankets donated to date. Thank you! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Thank you for your support for September’s God’s Work Our Hands project! We continue to collect donations through tomorrow for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in October at Hope Works. Next week we will announce the details of our October project supporting Dignity Mission. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods have put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Tomorrow 30 September at 7pm: Speaking of Genocide with Dr. Omer Bartov. UNM Anthropology Bldg, Rm 163. Dr. Bartov is the Samuel Pisar Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Brown University. He has written widely on war crimes, interethnic relations, and genocide. ~Jewish Voice for Peace

This Wednesday, 2 October: National Coffee with a Cop Day. Hosted by Christy Mae’s, 1400 San Pedro Dr NE, 10:30-12:30pm. Join your neighbors and police officers for coffee and conversation. ~Albuquerque Police

Next Sunday at St. Paul:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

If you would like to make a donation as a gift to Bishop Meghan, please select "New Bishop Celebration Fund" from the drop-down menu here:  https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/64074

RMS Creation Care Team : Zoom Nature Connection Workshop Saturday, October 12th, 10am. An opportunity to pause “business as usual” and allow a reconnection with ourselves, our surroundings, and our source. As Nigerian philosopher, Bayo Akomolafe, says, “The times are urgent, let us slow down.” During our time together, participants will reflect on the current state of the world, and practice honoring our pains for our world as we practice moving that pain while reconnecting with the Earth and each other. It's a chance to remember that we are part of nature and learn practices for how to have the ability to draw wisdom from the Earth for guidance, resilience, and inspiration. I am excited to share this experience with you as we navigate these challenges together. Please RSVP at sheri@yourpathcoach.org no later than Friday, October 11 will aid in preparing for the event and provide you with more information. Feel free to reach out in the meantime as well, with any questions.

Pastor Howard Corry: It is with both sadness and confidence in the promise of Jesus Christ that we share the news of the death of Pastor Howard Corry. Pastor Corry served for many years as the campus minister at Luther House at the University of New Mexico, as well as in Hawaii, Utah, and New Zealand. Please pray for Pastor Howard's family and friends. ~Deacon Sarah Bjornebo, RMS

Updates Beginning 22 September 2024

Today, 22 September: Come to Adult Faith Development this morning (11:15 in the Conference Room) for a continuation of our conversation on civic life and our faith in these crucial times and for information about Dignity Mission and its work with asylum seekers in El Paso and Juarez. ~Ivan Westergaard

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

Adopted Families: We have become aware of several families (refugees) who are in need of blankets. If you can donate new or gently used and very clean blankets for them, please put them in the narthex coatroom or call Kay if you need someone to pick them up. Thank you! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in October at Hope Works. (Note “October FFF” on your check.) Thank you for supporting this monthly project for our neighbors! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Please sign up in the Welcome Center! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Jewish Voice for Peace: Speaking of Genocide with Dr. Omer Bartov, 9/30, 7pm. UNM Anthropology Bldg, Rm 163. Dr. Bartov is the Samuel Pisar Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Brown University. He has written widely on war crimes, interethnic relations, and genocide. 

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

A Letter from Bishop Johnston Aelabouni:

September 14, 2024

Dear friends in Christ,
Here in the office of the bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod, it’s been a full and fruitful six weeks of ministry since my first day in office. While I have begun building relationships and learning the landscape of our synod ministries, one of my key priorities and goals has been to develop staffing plans for the office of the bishop (OOB) moving forward; and I’d like to update you now on how these plans are developing.

From my first day as bishop, I invited all current staff in the OOB to remain in their positions for a three-month period (through October 31) to allow for discernment regarding God’s calling for the Rocky Mountain Synod in this new season of ministry with a new bishop. In various spaces of this synod, I have been asking, “What is the role of the office of the bishop in accompanying the people and ministries of this part of the church? What should our team keep doing, start doing, stop doing, or change? What is the help that is actually helpful?” The insight provided so far by lay members and leaders, deacons and pastors, council members and current staff has been invaluable (and is always welcome!) Based on our learning so far, the synod council executive committee has affirmed the following plan:

Continuity of Operations: I have asked our Administrative Assistant for Leadership, Yvonne Wilken, and our Finance Director, Jon Johnson, to remain in their positions. This will bring our office some important continuity of operations, especially in areas such as property, finance, and technology that the team has worked hard to improve. I have also asked our Special Assistant to the Bishop for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Pr. Barbara Berry-Bailey, to remain in her role as part of our synod’s commitment to racial justice.

Strategic Planning for Advocacy: I have invited our Advocacy Directors, Peter Severson (Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Colorado) and Kurt Rager (Lutheran Advocacy Ministry New Mexico) to remain in their positions for a year of strategic planning to determine how advocacy ministry in the RMS can become more sustainable and more inclusive of the whole territory of our synod.

Open Positions: For the work that currently falls under called positions as Assistant to the Bishop (including transitions/call processes, candidacy and first call, communications and events, and Director for Evangelical Mission work), we are formulating a group of positions that will be posted in an open call/hiring process. Anyone with a sense of call and gifts for the posted positions is invited to apply (including current staff as well as new applicants.) The goal of this approach is to build our OOB team in a process that is open, transparent, and equitable, in collaboration with elected and representative leadership of the synod. To that end, I will be working with a small hiring team representing our synod council executive committee (VP Ruth Hoffman and Pr. Matthew Weber) and conference deans (Pr. Stephanie Lord and Pr. Jeff Carlson). This team will work with me on finalizing job descriptions, interviewing candidates, and making recommendations; as bishop, I will make the final appointments to this position. (In the case of Director for Evangelical Mission positions, synods work in collaboration with the ELCA Churchwide Office on posting applications, interviewing applicants, and hiring.)

In the weeks to come, we will share more information as we have it available, including job descriptions, compensation ranges, and information on how to apply. We anticipate this process extending at least through the end of October—and we will strive to work as diligently as possible, while also leaving room for the work of the Holy Spirit in guiding our discernment and decisions. Please feel free to contact me (maelabouni@rmselca.org) or our synod vice-president, Ruth Hoffman (vp@rmselca.org) with questions or to share ideas or concerns.

I invite your prayers (and patience) for this process and for all who will take part in it. I am grateful to our current OOB staff for their faithful dedication and their openness to living and serving in a season of uncertainty; and I also ask your prayers for them over these coming weeks of discernment. As you pray for me and for our team, I will also be praying for you: for strength and health, joy and courage, and wisdom in the ways God has called and sent you into your communities and the world as bearers of the good news of Jesus.

In Christ,
Bishop Meghan

Updates Beginning 15 September 2024

Today: What Does it Mean to be Lutheran in a Crucial Election Year? Ruth Hoffman, Synod Vice President, will facilitate our Adult Faith Development session, as we look at how our faith interacts with our citizen responsibilities. Join us for stimulating conversation at 11:15 in the Conference Room. The draft ELCA "Social Statement on Civic Life and Faith" will be part of the discussion. ~Ivan Westergaard

Next Sunday, 22 September: Dignity Mission seeks to support asylum seekers in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Rae VanDeMotter, of All Saints Lutheran, will share concerns about the difficult times these people have as they seek legal entry to the U.S., on Sunday, Sept. 22, after worship at St. Paul. Dignity Mission is made up of a variety of congregations (ecumenical) and other institutions who gather personal care items, basic needs, food and water and deliver to a physician in El Paso who has access to these folks. Learn more: come to the Conference Room by 11:15 am on the 22nd.

Stewardship: During these days leading up to November 10th, we ask you to think and pray about what this church means to you and how you can support it in the coming year?  Why November 10th?  That Sunday during worship we’ll receive your commitment of financial support for 2025.  Grouped together, our intentions will enable us to do another year of faithful and creative ministry.  November 10th also happens to be the anniversary of Luther’s birth.  Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Germany, on November 10, 1483.  Though Luther disliked having a church named after him, we bear his name—and, more importantly, his proclamation of God’s generous grace—in our very identity. ~Hal Nilsson, on behalf of the Stewardship Committee

Adopted Families: We have become aware of several families (refugees) who are in need of blankets. If you can donate new blankets for them, please put them in the narthex coatroom or call Kay if you need someone to pick them up. Thank you! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in October at Hope Works. (Note “October FFF” on your check.) Thank you for supporting this monthly project for our neighbors! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Please sign up in the Welcome Center! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

A Thank You! to St. Paul:
On behalf of The Storehouse of New Mexico family, thank you for your gift of $230. Your donation will provide 1,150 meals for those in need. Across the board, higher food costs, the end of COVID benefits, and inflation have impacted many people in our community. As a result, we’ve seen a substantial increase in the number of people visiting the pantry over the last several months. The Storehouse is committed to provide food to every person who walks through our doors. Your support allows us to honor our commitment to our community and ensure that families facing food insecurity always have a place to turn. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. ~Amy Lavender, VP of Development

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

A Huge Thank You! to everyone who made last Sunday’s Rally Sunday picnic luncheon so special! We appreciated all those helping hands in Fellowship Hall! ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews 

From Local Partner Organizations

Bread for the World Workshop is this Saturday, September 21, 8:30am-12pm, All Saints Lutheran Church, 4800 All Saints Road NW. "Nourish Our Future" is the campaign of BFW to fully fund and modernize the SNAP and WIC programs, expand the Child Tax Credit to cut poverty and hunger, develop solutions to college student hunger and develop an international "Children's Jubilee." The "Farm Bill" now facing Congress will be a focus as well a study on college student hunger, that was conducted by some UNM professors, one of whom will discuss the study at this workshop. You are encouraged to attend this workshop. Go to breadnm@gmail.com to register or talk to me or Buzz Lenander.  ~Ivan Westergaard

Jewish Voice for Peace: Speaking of Genocide with Dr. Omer Bartov, 9/30, 7pm. UNM Anthropology Bldg, Rm 163. Dr. Bartov is the Samuel Pisar Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Brown University. He has written widely on war crimes, interethnic relations, and genocide.

Upcoming Event Sponsored by New Mexico Conference of Churches: Pilgrimage To Beauty, 6 October: Embark on a journey with Reverend Tiffany Curtis, a recent pilgrim on the Caminos de Santiago and Kumano Kodo pilgrimages, as she guides us through an afternoon pilgrimage to explore autumn beauty. Engage in contemplative prompts, foster community connections, and practice mindful walking in this local pilgrimage opportunity. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome. Participants must be able to walk up to 4 miles at a slow pace, at high altitude, with a slow ascent and descent. The Pilgrimage to Beauty is part of The Journey Project: https://www.nmchurches.org/annual-pilgrimage. RSVP by 9/28 to Rev. Tiffany Curtis at rev.tiffany@theopencirclesantafe.org.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS AMMPARO Climate Change, Displacement & Conflict: Migrants Speak. This Wednesday, Sept. 18th, 3:00 pm ET. This webinar will explore the human impact of climate change, environmental degradation, and inadequate environmental protections on conflict and mobility, centering the voices of those most affected. Environmental defenders, Indigenous groups, and frontline communities share their stories and struggles, exposing the intersections of extractive industries, displacement, and the climate crisis. Register at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1chvSKynTi-XZ1xOl7kxqw#/registration.

Indigenous Thought & Theology, Oct. 24, 2-4pm Central. Indian people have unique and beautiful ways of understanding the world. Indigenous wisdom – as it relates to living in relationship with the Creator, Mother Earth and other created beings – should be centered if we want to provide better care for our home and all our relatives. Indigenous Thought & Theology introduces participants to this wisdom and examines Indigenous ways of understanding, respecting and interacting with this wondrous world we inhabit. No pre-registration is required to participate. Just click "join the class" to attend.  https://elca.org/Our-Work/Congregations-and-Synods/Ministries-of-Diverse-Cultures-and-Communities/Indigenous-Ministries-and-Tribal-Relations/Truth-and-Healing-Movement

Updates Beginning 8 September 2024

Today! Join us in Fellowship Hall for our Picnic Luncheon and Piñata to celebrate Rally Sunday and God’s Work Our Hands. ~Pr. Koppel

Next Sunday, Sept. 15: What Does it Mean to be Lutheran in a Crucial Election Year? Ruth Hoffman, Synod Vice President, will facilitate our Adult Faith Development session, as we look at how our faith interacts with our citizen responsibilities. Join us for stimulating conversation at 11:15 in the Conference Room. The draft ELCA "Social Statement on Civic Life and Faith" will be part of the discussion. ~Ivan Westergaard

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in October at Hope Works. (Note “October FFF” on your check.) Thank you for supporting this monthly project for our neighbors! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Adopted Families: We recently helped a single man with rent and bought Amtrak tickets for a single mom. The man has a CDL and was most recently employed as a long haul driver; but he lost that job when he was no longer needed. He is in the process of applying for another job but was only able to pay a little toward his current rent (his rent is due after the middle of the month). We paid $600 to complete payment for his current rent. He has never had to ask for help and wasn't sure where or how to ask; he also was quite embarrassed to ask. The landlady/owner says he is a very good person but she couldn't wait because she needed the money to pay the mortgage on the dwelling. The man was very grateful.
A client advocate from Healthcare for the Homeless emailed me about a mom with two small kids who needs to get to a safe shelter in another state; the mom's grandmother is in the same town as the shelter and will help as much as she can. We bought train tickets for mom and kids for $280. The mother was extremely excited and thankful to be on her way.
We were able to help these people because of the generous donations we received - thank you for helping us help others! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Mark Your Calendars for Monday evening, 30 September! Potluck and worship at St. Paul with the Malagasy bishops/presidents when they visit Albuquerque. Stay tuned for details! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

A Thank You to St. Paul:
Many thanks for the generosity of St. Paul Lutheran!  As we move through our transition from Bishop Jim to Bishop Meghan, the support of the congregations in the work we are doing is more important than ever. ~Jon Johnson, Finance Director, Rocky Mountain Synod

Communion Bread Bakers: I am working on the schedule for bread baking for the coming year. Do you like to bake bread? We are looking for a few more bakers. The bread recipe is easy and will be provided. The recipe makes 4 loaves which are frozen in baggies marked with the baked date and one is used each Sunday. We currently have 5 faithful bakers so we only have to bake 2 or 3 times a year. Please let me know if you would like to join this wonderful group! Contact me at 505-269-0855 and leave a message. ~Nancy Jenkins

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Sabbatical 2025

Dear St. Paul Community,
In 2025 we will celebrate seven years walking with Pastor Koppel. In honor of this, our Council has granted her a three-month sabbatical, starting May of 2025.  A sabbatical is a time of one or more of the following:  respite, study, spiritual growth, skill development, research, and renewal.  And as stated in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) guidelines for sabbatical planning, “The mission of the congregation benefits from the rostered person who returns to ministry with new experiences and abilities, as well as being refreshed and renewed.”  In other words, this is a time of enrichment for pastor and us as a congregation.  And that while she makes plans, so too, do we.
We have formed a team to help think through the details, both for Pastor and us.  And we’ve already begun assessing the administrative, pastoral care, worship, and financial support necessary to keep our church life moving forward and growing.
          Over the next few months, you are invited to engage by making suggestions and joining the conversations about what you might like during these three months.  Perhaps it is something to do with worship, Bible study, and/or engaging the mission of our call in some new way. Will we reach beyond our Sunday morning worship?  Will we listen to new ideas to help plant seeds for our future?  Will we sing, and possibly dance to a beat we are being called to discover?
          If you have ideas or desires to express, please connect with anyone of us on the Sabbatical Team.  Commit to participate when asked for ideas to grow our sabbatical time with ideas for themes or bible study topics or even activities beyond our normal. This is a time for all of us to witness and grow together. Watch for updates, plans and announcements about this growing opportunity.
          How blessed we are as a community of faith, how blessed we are to have been given the past seven years of growing our community of faith led by a strong pastor who believes in the work we have chosen.  Above all, keep this sabbatical process in your prayers for growing and witnessing God’s amazing love.

Blessings as we breathe into a time of rest and renewal,
Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash, Sara Love, Hal Nilsson, and Pastor Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

This Tuesday: Dunkin’ Donut Cruiser x Coffee with a Cop! We are excited to announce that the Dunkin' Donut Cruiser will be visiting Albuquerque to show their appreciation for the APD and the community. We will be hosting a large-scale Coffee with a Cop event at the University Substation (1009 Bradbury Dr SE) on September 10th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. There will be free coffee and refreshers for everyone. ~Angelina Navarro, Community Engagement Manager, APD

Bread for the World Workshop is set for Saturday, September 21, 8:30 AM to Noon, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 4800 All Saints Road NW. "Nourish Our Future" is the campaign of BFW to fully fund and modernize the SNAP and WIC programs, expand the Child Tax Credit to cut poverty and hunger, develop solutions to college student hunger and develop an international "Children's Jubilee." The "Farm Bill" now facing Congress will be a focus as well a study on college student hunger, that was conducted by some UNM professors, one of whom will discuss the study at this workshop. You are encouraged to attend this workshop. Go to breadnm@gmail.com to register or talk to me or Buzz Lenander.  ~Ivan Westergaard

3 Upcoming Events Sponsored by New Mexico Conference of Churches:

Becoming Good News in a Weary World: Fostering Prophetic Imagination, Courageous Conversations, Sabbath Circles, Kin-dom Projects, and Communities of Contrast. A half-day interfaith event, 9am-1pm, Friday, 13 September, in Taos. Respond now, space is limited! Register at:
https://www.eventcreate.com/e/goodnewsinawearyworld. Contact: toddwynward@gmail.com

Covenanted Kinship & Prophetic Imagination--these are threads that run deep through nearly all spiritual traditions. How might the ancient practices of covenanted kinship and prophetic imagination transform our culture today? How might they be paths each of us can start upon right now, to embody healing and good news in a society that so often seems so full of division, discord, disparity, and despair? Come engage with other allies from communities up and down the Rio Grande to embark on a path that fosters these practices and nurtures courageous conversations, sabbath circles, kin-dom projects and communities of contrast. Join the half day...and stay for the two-day workshop if you want, 13-14 September.
To register: contact toddwynward@gmail.com. Cost: $25. An informal lunch will be provided after the session. Location: 215 La Posta Rd, Taos, NM 87571. Hosted at & by TiLT [Taos Initiative for Life Together]. Supported by the NM Conference of Churches/Thriving Congregations Initiative.

Pilgrimage To Beauty, 6 October: Embark on a journey with Reverend Tiffany Curtis, a recent pilgrim on the Caminos de Santiago and Kumano Kodo pilgrimages, as she guides us through an afternoon pilgrimage to explore autumn beauty. Engage in contemplative prompts, foster community connections, and practice mindful walking in this local pilgrimage opportunity. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome. Participants must be able to walk up to 4 miles at a slow pace, at high altitude, with a slow ascent and descent.
The Pilgrimage to Beauty is part of The Journey Project – New Mexico Conference of Churches: https://www.nmchurches.org/annual-pilgrimage. RSVP by 9/28 to Rev. Tiffany Curtis at rev.tiffany@theopencirclesantafe.org. You can read more about Rev. Tiffany here: https://theopencirclesantafe.org/ourteam
Further details will be sent prior to October 6th to all participants who RSVP. 

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

This Tuesday: God’s Love Made Real is a movement encouraging the ELCA to create a world experiencing the difference God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation. During this discussion the presiding bishop will share why God’s Love Made Real is meaningful to her and the future of the church. Participants will have the opportunity to share experiences and ask questions. “The Spirit is calling us to move together as one church to share the grace and love we experience every day,” said Eaton. Join the discussion Sept. 10th, 12pm Pacific! You can learn more about God’s Love Made Real at lovemadereal.elca.org.

RMS AMMPARO: Please register and attend Climate Change, Displacement & Conflict: Migrants Speak on Sept. 18th, at 3:00 pm ET. This webinar will explore the human impact of climate change, environmental degradation, and inadequate environmental protections on conflict and mobility, centering the voices of those most affected. Environmental defenders, Indigenous groups, and frontline communities share their stories and struggles, exposing the intersections of extractive industries, displacement, and the climate crisis. Join us as we work together towards policy solutions and environmental justice. Register at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1chvSKynTi-XZ1xOl7kxqw#/registration

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-New Mexico’s annual Fall Advocacy Conference: Save the Date! The conference will be held on Saturday, November 16th, at All Saints Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, beginning at 9am. Refreshments and fellowship will begin at 8:30am. Lunch is included. This will be a hybrid event with in-person and online options. More information in September. ~ Kurt A. Rager, Director, LAM-NM

Lutheran Disaster Relief: Crisis in the Middle East.  ELCA has donated $250,000 to go toward children and schools. Additional funds went to fund the psycho-social support efforts for the children in the Holy Land. You can also give by clicking this link: https://www.elca.org/Our-Work/Relief-and-Development/Lutheran-Disaster-Response/Our-Impact/Middle-East-Crisis and choosing the “Crisis in the Middle East” option. Thank you for your voice and advocacy. It makes all the difference in the world!

Updates Beginning 1 September 2024

See the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to bring a salad or dessert, and/or to help with setup and cleanup. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in October at Hope Works. (Note “October FFF” on your check.) Thank you for supporting this monthly project for our neighbors! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Communion Bread Bakers: I am working on the schedule for bread baking for the coming year. Do you like to bake bread? We are looking for a few more bakers. The bread recipe is easy and will be provided. The recipe makes 4 loaves which are frozen in baggies marked with the baked date and one is used each Sunday. We currently have 5 faithful bakers so we only have to bake 2 or 3 times a year. Please let me know if you would like to join this wonderful group! Contact me at 505-269-0855 and leave a message. ~Nancy Jenkins

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Mark Your Calendars for Monday evening, 30 September! Potluck and worship at St. Paul with the Malagasy bishops/presidents when they visit Albuquerque. Stay tuned for details! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

Adopted Families: We recently helped a single man with rent and bought Amtrak tickets for a single mom. The man has a CDL and was most recently employed as a long haul driver; but he lost that job when he was no longer needed. He is in the process of applying for another job but was only able to pay a little toward his current rent (his rent is due after the middle of the month). We paid $600 to complete payment for his current rent. He has never had to ask for help and wasn't sure where or how to ask; he also was quite embarrassed to ask. The landlady/owner says he is a very good person but she couldn't wait because she needed the money to pay the mortgage on the dwelling. The man was very grateful.
A client advocate from Healthcare for the Homeless emailed me about a mom with two small kids who needs to get to a safe shelter in another state; the mom's grandmother is in the same town as the shelter and will help as much as she can. We bought train tickets for mom and kids for $280. The mother was extremely excited and thankful to be on her way.
We were able to help these people because of the generous donations we received - thank you for helping us help others! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

August 2024

Dear St. Paul Community,
In 2025 we will celebrate seven years walking with Pastor Koppel. In honor of this, our Council has granted her a three-month sabbatical, starting May of 2025.  A sabbatical is a time of one or more of the following:  respite, study, spiritual growth, skill development, research, and renewal.  And as stated in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) guidelines for sabbatical planning, “The mission of the congregation benefits from the rostered person who returns to ministry with new experiences and abilities, as well as being refreshed and renewed.”  In other words, this is a time of enrichment for pastor and us as a congregation.  And that while she makes plans, so too, do we.
We have formed a team to help think through the details, both for Pastor and us.  And we’ve already begun assessing the administrative, pastoral care, worship, and financial support necessary to keep our church life moving forward and growing.
          Over the next few months, you are invited to engage by making suggestions and joining the conversations about what you might like during these three months.  Perhaps it is something to do with worship, Bible study, and/or engaging the mission of our call in some new way. Will we reach beyond our Sunday morning worship?  Will we listen to new ideas to help plant seeds for our future?  Will we sing, and possibly dance to a beat we are being called to discover?
          If you have ideas or desires to express, please connect with anyone of us on the Sabbatical Team.  Commit to participate when asked for ideas to grow our sabbatical time with ideas for themes or bible study topics or even activities beyond our normal. This is a time for all of us to witness and grow together. Watch for updates, plans and announcements about this growing opportunity.
          How blessed we are as a community of faith, how blessed we are to have been given the past seven years of growing our community of faith led by a strong pastor who believes in the work we have chosen.  Above all, keep this sabbatical process in your prayers for growing and witnessing God’s amazing love.

Blessings as we breathe into a time of rest and renewal,
Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash, Sara Love, Hal Nilsson, and Pastor Koppel

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will be meeting for their Human Rights Day Celebration on Friday, September 6th at Second Presbyterian Church, 812 Edith Blvd NE.  The theme is Act Justly, based on Matthew 5:9—“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called God’s children.”  Rev. Jesse Dompreh, pastor of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church, will be sharing information on the Martin Luther King Day breakfast held annually with a noted speaker, the Grant Chapel choir, the awarding of scholarships to deserving students, etc.  In addition, Rev. Billiejune Simmons, CWU Southwest Regional Coordinator, will also be with us and participating in the program  Coffee fellowship begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by the program.  After the service, plan to stay for a light New Mexican luncheon served by the women of Second Presbyterian.  Please join us and bring a friend!  Questions?  Contact Marilyn Stoops 505-265-8358 or mstoops@swcp.com.

JVP Event: Tabling at Downtown Growers' Market: Sat, 9/7 from 8 AM-Noon. Robinson Park: 810 Copper Ave NW. Allies are welcome. We stand on the main path between the two entrances. ~Jewish Voice for Peace Albuquerque

Dunkin’ Donut Cruiser x Coffee with a Cop! We are excited to announce that the Dunkin' Donut Cruiser will be visiting Albuquerque to show their appreciation for the APD and the community. We will be hosting a large-scale Coffee with a Cop event at the University Substation (1009 Bradbury Dr SE) on September 10th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. There will be free coffee and refreshers for everyone. ~Angelina Navarro, Community Engagement Manager, APD

Founders of Roots, a Palestinian/Israeli Peace Organization on the West Bank: United Church of Santa Fe and Temple Beth Shalom are cosponsoring a community-wide presentation on Monday, Sept. 16th, 7pm at United with the founders of "Roots," Orthodox Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger and Palestinian activist Noor A'war. They are on a U.S. tour this September and United has invited them to Santa Fe for several different presentations. ~Rev. Talitha Arnold, Senior Minister, The United Church of Santa Fe

Bread for the World Workshop is set for Saturday, Sept. 21, 8:30 AM to Noon, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 4800 All Saints Road NW. "Nourish Our Future" is the campaign of BFW to fullly fund and modernize the SNAP and WIC programs, expand the Child Tax Credit to cut poverty and hunger, develop solutions to college student hunger and develop an international "Children's Jubilee." The "Farm Bill" now facing Congress will be a focus as well a study on college student hunger, that was conducted by some UNM professors, one of whom will discuss the study at this workshop. You are encouraged to attend this workshop. Go to breadnm@gmail.com to register or talk to me or Buzz Lenander.  ~Ivan Westergaard

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS AMMPARO: Please register and attend Climate Change, Displacement & Conflict: Migrants Speak on Sept. 18th, at 3:00 pm ET. This webinar will explore the human impact of climate change, environmental degradation, and inadequate environmental protections on conflict and mobility, centering the voices of those most affected. Environmental defenders, Indigenous groups, and frontline communities share their stories and struggles, exposing the intersections of extractive industries, displacement, and the climate crisis. Join us as we work together towards policy solutions and environmental justice. Register at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1chvSKynTi-XZ1xOl7kxqw#/registration

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-New Mexico’s annual Fall Advocacy Conference: Save the Date! The conference will be held on Saturday, November 16th, at All Saints Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, beginning at 9am. Refreshments and fellowship will begin at 8:30am. Lunch is included. This will be a hybrid event with in-person and online options. More information in September. ~ Kurt A. Rager, Director, LAM-NM

Updates Beginning 25 August 2024

Communion Bread Bakers: I am working on the schedule for bread baking for the coming year. Do you like to bake bread? We are looking for a few more bakers. The bread recipe is easy and will be provided. The recipe makes 4 loaves which are frozen in baggies marked with the baked date and one is used each Sunday. We currently have 5 faithful bakers so we only have to bake 2 or 3 times a year. Please let me know if you would like to join this wonderful group! Contact me at 505-269-0855 and leave a message. ~Nancy Jenkins

Save the Date – Sept. 8th! St. Paul Rally Sunday & God’s Work Our Hands Sunday. An exciting day, when we will lift up St. Paul’s GWOH “season of service” in 2024, bless the backpacks for our school age youth, enjoy special music from Strange Holler Bluegrass Band, and lunch together after service. Stay tuned for more details! ~Pr. Koppel

Mark Your Calendars for Monday evening, 30 September! Potluck and worship at St. Paul with the Malagasy bishops/presidents when they visit Albuquerque. Stay tuned for details! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

Do You Maze? Lists St. Paul’s Labyrinth as #1! We are listed first of the “Nine Labyrinths to Visit in New Mexico” – check it out at: https://www.doyoumaze.com/blog/9-labyrinths-to-visit-in-new-mexico

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods are putting a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.

Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will be meeting for their Human Rights Day Celebration on Friday, September 6th at Second Presbyterian Church, 812 Edith Blvd NE.  The theme is Act Justly, based on Matthew 5:9—“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called God’s children.”  Rev. Jesse Dompreh, pastor of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church, will be sharing information on the Martin Luther King Day breakfast held annually with a noted speaker, the Grant Chapel choir, the awarding of scholarships to deserving students, etc.  In addition, Rev. Billiejune Simmons, CWU Southwest Regional Coordinator, will also be with us and participating in the program  Coffee fellowship begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by the program.  After the service, plan to stay for a light New Mexican luncheon served by the women of Second Presbyterian.  Please join us and bring a friend!  Questions?  Contact Marilyn Stoops 505-265-8358 or mstoops@swcp.com.

Dunkin’ Donut Cruiser x Coffee with a Cop! We are excited to announce that the Dunkin' Donut Cruiser will be visiting Albuquerque to show their appreciation for the APD and the community. We will be hosting a large-scale Coffee with a Cop event at the University Substation (1009 Bradbury Dr SE) on September 10th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. There will be free coffee and refreshers for everyone. ~Angelina Navarro, Community Engagement Manager, APD

~Pastor Rhonda Newby-Torres, Luther House UNM & CNM, The Open Table Connection

Founders of Roots, a Palestinian/Israeli Peace Organization on the West Bank: United Church of Santa Fe and Temple Beth Shalom are cosponsoring a community-wide presentation on Monday, Sept. 16th, 7pm at United with the founders of "Roots," Orthodox Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger and Palestinian activist Noor A'war. They are on a U.S. tour this September and United has invited them to Santa Fe for several different presentations. ~Rev. Talitha Arnold, Senior Minister, The United Church of Santa Fe

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

View Rocky Mountain Synod Bishop Meghan’s greetings at: https://vimeo.com/999355020?share=copy

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-New Mexico’s annual Fall Advocacy Conference: Save the Date! The conference will be held on Saturday, November 16th, at All Saints Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, beginning at 9am. Refreshments and fellowship will begin at 8:30am. Lunch is included. This will be a hybrid event with in-person and online options. More information in September. ~ Kurt A. Rager, Director, LAM-NM

Microenterprise Development First Newsletter Available. The MED program, short for Microenterprise Development, through Lutheran Family Services Albuquerque, provides funding and technical assistance to refugee start-up businesses. LFS resettles hundreds of refugees to the city each year, and for many of these newcomers, owning a business is the ultimate dream. The newsletter is posted in the Welcome Center.

AMMPARO’s Quarterly Report Now Available. AMMPARO (Accompanying Migrants with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities) has released their latest report, which is posted in the Welcome Center.

National Lutheran Choir's 2024-2025 Season, Healing: A Sacred Story, will explore five dimensions of wholeness and wellness. The season will feature collaborations with guest artists such as Cantus, Brian Newhouse, composers Melissa Dunphy and Hans Bridger Heruth: nlca.com

National Faith HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: Celebrated today, August 25th, NFHAAD highlights the role faith-based communities play in HIV/AIDS education, prevention, treatment, care, and support–while also ending stigmas and stereotypes toward people living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS. https://www.hiv.gov/events/awareness-days/faith

Updates Beginning 18 August 2024

Today: August 18, 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of my consecration as a deaconess. Join me in celebrating this momentous occasion with refreshments after worship. Thanks. ~Diane Remer-Thamert

Stewardship: We’re looking for a few people…
...to help the people of St. Paul share their gifts with the church and the world. This is a vital ministry aimed at the future of the church and the good of the world. Anyone is welcome. If you are a veteran member of St. Paul, your knowledge will be greatly helpful; if you are new to St. Paul, this could be a good way to find your way to belonging. If this sounds interesting to you, please see any of the current team members, Paula Eglinton, Will Hoffman, Jan Krakow, Bob Matthews, or Hal Nilsson. ~Bob Matthews

Save the Date – Sept. 8th! St. Paul Rally Sunday & God’s Work Our Hands Sunday. An exciting day, when we will lift up St. Paul’s GWOH “season of service” in 2024, have special music from Strange Holler Bluegrass Band, bless the backpacks for our school age youth, and lunch together after service. Stay tuned for more details! ~Pr. Koppel

Mark Your Calendars for Monday evening, 30 September! Potluck and worship at St. Paul with the Malagasy bishops/presidents when they visit Albuquerque. Stay tuned for details! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Do You Maze? Lists St. Paul’s Labyrinth as #1! We are listed first of the “Nine Labyrinths to Visit in New Mexico” – check it out at: https://www.doyoumaze.com/blog/9-labyrinths-to-visit-in-new-mexico

Would you help??  Bob and Nancy Matthews will be gone 8/25-9/22. Would you sit in the Welcome Center during church service for one of those Sundays to greet latecomers? For more information, just talk to them after church any Sunday before 8/25. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods are putting a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews 

From Local Partner Organizations

Founders of Roots, a Palestinian/Israeli Peace Organization on the West Bank: United Church of Santa Fe and Temple Beth Shalom are cosponsoring a community-wide presentation on Monday, Sept. 16th, 7pm at United with the founders of "Roots," Orthodox Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger and Palestinian activist Noor A'war. They are on a U.S. tour this September and United has invited them to Santa Fe for several different presentations. ~Rev. Talitha Arnold, Senior Minister, The United Church of Santa Fe [Note: more info on Roots posted in Welcome Center.]

JVP Event: Not Another Bomb Rally. Today: Sun, Aug 18, 10am
Tiguex Park: 1800 Mountain Rd NW
Jewish Voice for Peace: https://www.jewishvoiceforpeace.org/about/

A few Nob Hill congregations back in 2019 had the notion that faith communities could and should be doing more for the precariously housed than giving out water bottles and granola bars.  They worked together to start the non-profit ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative. 

Since then, the organization has responded to the emerging needs in our community with different levels of programming all faithful to this vision. In this time, FaithWorks has grown to over 15 faith communities. In just the last 18 months, with your support, we have achieved the following:

 Ended the experience of homelessness for 21 families through our partnership with the City of Albuquerque 

• Prevented homelessness for 132 people with our combined emergency rental and utility assistance totaling over $40,000.  

• Delivered food, household goods, and furniture to recently housed families in our community - both citizens and asylum seekers.

• Connected over 50 asylum-seeking families with resources to navigate complex legal paperwork in partnership with the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center.

• Connected asylum seekers and people experiencing homelessness with 230 state-issued IDs. 

This summer, FaithWorks is right-sizing and re-focusing our mission to align with current funding availability and the post-covid landscape for non-profits. We on the board and staff of FaithWorks are grateful for the continued engagement and collaboration of member congregations. As part of this re-set, we expect to be working even more closely with you in the coming months!

Thanks for your continued partnership in this good work.

Jane McGuire, President of the Board

Pastor Rhonda Newby-Torres, Luther House UNM & CNM, The Open Table Connection

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Dear Partners in Advocacy,

With so much attention focused on the general election in November, you will find lots of information below to fully immerse yourself in civic engagement. As our ELCA Advocacy shares, "This church understands government as a means through which God works to preserve creation and build a more peaceful and just social order in a broken world. Our “civic participation is not simply voluntary, idealistic, or altruistic. The ELCA holds to the biblical idea that God calls God’s people to be active citizens and to ensure that everyone benefits from the good of government (Jeremiah 29:7, Romans 13:1-7)” Participate, be an informed voter, support fully our election process, challenge the overabundance of false and misleading information, and encourage others in your faith community to do the same. Each opportunity shared below, even if Lutheran-specific, can be used in any denominational setting or faith community.
                LAM-NM has vigorously maintained a non-partisan stance in its work, choosing instead to make change through influencing policy through our advocacy and congregational organizing. We do not and cannot endorse candidates in elections. Yet, significant change can occur in policy through elections. Commit to being fully attentive and informed as we move towards November. With each candidate seeking your vote, ask about their positions as they relate to our key areas of focus. How would they address and solve hunger and poverty in New Mexico? What would they do to solve the affordable housing crisis and what is their position on turning the tide on the growing population of those with no place to call home? Are they committed to affordable healthcare for all New Mexicans? The list is long, but you get the idea. More simply put and spot-on, The Most Rev. Michael Curry, presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, and a long partner in advocacy efforts with the ELCA, shares, "The principle on which Christians must vote is the principle: Does this look like love of neighbor?" Post that reminder everywhere and share it widely!
There's never a slow time of year for LAM-NM. Summer is filled with monitoring legislative interim committee hearings, working within the various coalitions we are a part of on policy and upcoming legislative proposals, and drafting our specific advocacy agenda for 2025. We have also spent much time in thought and conversation as we discern what the future holds for Lutheran Advocacy Ministry - New Mexico after a long and distinguished 40 years of ministry. The seasons are changing and the Spirit is always active and calling. LAM-NM continues to discern our purpose and what we are called to, and, consider all options for what that context might look like. Continue to pray for our ministry.
                Finally, planning for our annual Fall Advocacy Conference continues and I invite you to save the date! The conference will be held on Saturday, November 16th, at All Saints Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, beginning at 9 a.m. Refreshments and fellowship will begin at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be included. This will be a hybrid event with in-person and online options. More information will be available in September.

May the peace of Christ be with you, Kurt A. Rager, Director, LAM-NM

Election Challengers, Watchers, Observers, and Poll Workers! ​Are you interested in what you can do as a non-partisan influence in this election cycle? Take your energy to the #ELCAElectionActivator network - an opportunity for individuals and our congregations to share in our communities' love in action. ELCA Election Activators from various parts of our ELCA faith community are invited to a call once a month for updates and to hear from each other about local initiatives. Because the ELCA does not endorse a particular candidate, party, or form of government or strive for a Christian one, participation requires sign-up and a non-partisan pledge. "Lutherans care about government because it is a gift from God intended for the safety and flourishing of human life" (from ELCA social message "Government & Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy"). The next virtual meeting is August 27th. Learn more at: https://blogs.elca.org/advocacy/
                Here in New Mexico, there are a variety of ways you can get involved in the upcoming election. New Mexico law permits properly designated individuals to serve as challengers and watchers during early voting and on Election Day. Being a challenger or watcher gives the individual access to a specified early voting center or polling place to observe voting activities. Learn more at: https://www.sos.nm.gov/voting-and-elections/voter-information-portal-nmvote-org/election-challengers-watchers-observers-information/

Updates Beginning 11 August 2024

Just a Reminder: the Ice Cream Group continues to meet! Every second Wednesday at 1pm, the DQ at Louisiana/Montgomery. Next meeting is this week on August 14. ~Julie Ambrogi

Stewardship: We’re looking for a few people…
...to help the people of St. Paul share their gifts with the church and the world. This is a vital ministry aimed at the future of the church and the good of the world. Anyone is welcome. If you are a veteran member of St. Paul, your knowledge will be greatly helpful; if you are new to St. Paul, this could be a good way to find your way to belonging. If this sounds interesting to you, please see any of the current team members, Paula Eglinton, Will Hoffman, Jan Krakow, Bob Matthews, or Hal Nilsson. ~Bob Matthews

Mark Your Calendars for Monday evening, 30 September! Potluck and worship at St. Paul with the Malagasy bishops/presidents when they visit Albuquerque. Stay tuned for details! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

Would you help??  Bob and Nancy Matthews will be gone 8/25-9/22. Would you sit in the Welcome Center during church service for one of those Sundays to greet latecomers? For more information, just talk to them after church any Sunday before 8/25. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods are putting a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

•  JVP Film Screening: Where Olive Trees Weep
  Today: Sun, Aug 11 from 12:30-2 PM
  Guild Cinema: 3405 Central Ave NE

• JVP Event: Not Another Bomb Rally
  Sun, Aug 18 in the PM –stay tuned for details
  Tiguex Park: 1800 Mountain Rd NW

Jewish Voice for Peace: https://www.jewishvoiceforpeace.org/about/

Upcoming Storehouse of New Mexico Fundraising Events:

• Saturday, 28 September: Albuquerque Empty Bowls at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 11am-3pm

• Thursday, 24 October: 2024 Charity Golf Tournament at Santa Ana Golf Club

Details are at: https://storehousenm.org/ (and posted in the Welcome Center).

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

A Greeting from Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni

Dear friends in Christ in the Rocky Mountain Synod,

For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55:10-11)

Earlier this week, these verses were spoken over me by Pr. Ruth Ann Loughry as part of our Liturgy of sending and transition. As we blessed Bishop Jim Gonia and Pr. Kim Gonia, giving thanks for Bishop Jim’s faithful accompaniment of our synod for the past twelve years, and released Bishop Jim from his call as bishop of our Rocky Mountain Synod, the staff of the office of the bishop also surrounded me and prayed for me through these words. 

Isaiah 55 has been a guiding text for me throughout my ministry. The whole chapter is a vision of holy abundance for all: a vision of justice, wholeness, and joy. And as I begin my call as your bishop, I offer these verses as a word of calling and promise—not only for me, but for all of us as the church, formed and sent by God’s word.

And God’s word, we Christians proclaim, is Jesus: the Word made flesh, God with us. In his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus is the Word of God to the world. But, as Paul reminds the early church in Rome, “How are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:14b-15). This is our calling as church and our mission statement as the Rocky Mountain Synod: Together we proclaim and embody God's unconditional love for the sake of the world! This is the joyful calling given by God to us in our time, in the places of this synod where we “live and move and have our being.” We are not here accidentally! We are here for a purpose. We do not merely go into the world: we are sent, by the One who so loved the world that Jesus came to share our human life, to die and rise, to defeat the powers of sin, evil, and death. 

This is a holy and humbling calling. On days when worry, exhaustion, or heartbreak (of both global and personal proportion) make our outlook bleak and steal our hope from us, this calling feels impossible. And so God reminds us that we are never given a calling alone—our calling always comes with God’s promise. As the rain and snow bring water to the earth, nourish life, and return to the atmosphere (the water cycle is biblical and scientific!) so God declares: “so shall my word be… it shall not return to me empty.” Jesus Christ, God’s Word incarnate, did not return to God empty, but full of resurrection life. We, God’s beloved children and Christ’s own body in the world, will not return empty either. Whatever this season brings, I know this: God’s Word will not fail. God will accomplish what God purposes: with us, through us, and even in spite of us if need be! May this calling and promise inspire and sustain us as church: better together.

In Christ,
Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni

Prayers for Wildfire Season
We pray for first responders, firefighters, civic leaders, the family and friends of the person who died in the Stone Canyon Fire, for those who lost property and structures, all those who have evacuated or prepare for evacuation…

Let us pray,

O God, our refuge and strength, our help in times of trouble. Have mercy on the lands and lives damaged or destroyed by fires. Have mercy on the wildlife and domestic animals who shelter in these lands. Protect all who stand in harm's way in order to protect others. Accompany all who are particularly vulnerable or alone in dangerous conditions. We know that you are with us in fire, wind, and storm. Today, we pray for rain and relief. Drench the soil and our lives with your hope.

Amen.

Thank you for your prayers. If you would like to donate to the RMS Disaster Response Fund, please go to the RMS website, https://www.rmselca.org/, scroll to the bottom, click on the Give button, and select, "RMS Disaster Response" from the dropdown menu -- Thank you.

Updates Beginning 4 August 2024

This Week: First Tuesday! And mark your calendars for more than one date, both the first Tuesday of August and September, 8/6 and 9/3, starting at 4:00 pm at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE.  It is still time to be inside during the afternoons, so bring a snack to share and spend time visiting with other folks from church.  Just make the September gathering an extension of Labor Day! ~Nancy Matthews’

Just a Reminder: the Ice Cream Group continues to meet! Every second Wednesday at 1pm, the DQ at Louisiana/Montgomery. Next meeting is August 14. ~Julie Ambrogi

Stewardship: We’re looking for a few people…
...to help the people of St. Paul share their gifts with the church and the world. This is a vital ministry aimed at the future of the church and the good of the world. Anyone is welcome. If you are a veteran member of St. Paul, your knowledge will be greatly helpful; if you are new to St. Paul, this could be a good way to find your way to belonging. If this sounds interesting to you, please see any of the current team members, Paula Eglinton, Will Hoffman, Jan Krakow, Bob Matthews, or Hal Nilsson. ~Bob Matthews

Mark Your Calendars for Monday evening, 30 September! Potluck and worship at St. Paul with the Malagasy bishops/presidents when they visit Albuquerque. Stay tuned for details! ~Sara Love & Mino Rakotoarijaona

Sanctuary Infill Project: It has begun! Thank you to everyone who was able to come on Friday and Saturday to help with demo-ing the infill area, and to Jim Graf, our project lead. We are also thankful for Brian, our contractor, and his team, who welcomed us to work alongside them. ~Deborah Ash

Shareback from the West Bank available on St. Paul’s Facebook page. iusti Remer-Thamert’s presentation this past Monday evening is available for viewing at https://www.facebook.com/stpaulabq/. Thank you, iusti! ~Deborah Ash

Would you help??  Bob and Nancy Matthews will be gone 8/25-9/22. Would you sit in the Welcome Center during church service for one of those Sundays to greet latecomers? For more information, just talk to them after church any Sunday before 8/25. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods are putting a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews 

Thank You’s! to St. Paul:

On behalf of the Storehouse family, thank you for your gift of $230. Your donation will provide 1,150 meals for those in need. Across the board, higher food costs, the end of COVID benefits, and inflation have impacted many people in our community. As a result, we’ve seen a substantial increase in the number of people visiting the pantry over the last several months. The Storehouse is committed to provide food to every person who walks through our doors. Your support allows us to honor our commitment to our community and ensure that families facing food insecurity always have a place to turn. Thank you again for supporting The Storehouse New Mexico. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Amy Lavender, VP of Development

On behalf of Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico, thank you for your generosity! All of the items and dollars donated by St. Paul are so helpful at this time. The increase in clients has been tremendous this year. We also appreciate your continued support through pop-top donations! ~Michaela Wood, Volunteer and Program Coordinator
[Note: Our July God’s Work Our Hands project.]

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

• JVP Film Screening: Where Olive Trees Weep
  Sun, Aug 11 from 12:30-2 PM
  Guild Cinema: 3405 Central Ave NE

• JVP Event: Not Another Bomb Rally
  Sun, Aug 18 in the PM –stay tuned for details
  Tiguex Park: 1800 Mountain Rd NW 

Jewish Voice for Peace: https://www.jewishvoiceforpeace.org/about/

Upcoming Storehouse of New Mexico Fundraising Events:

• Saturday, 28 September: Albuquerque Empty Bowls at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 11am-3pm

• Thursday, 24 October: 2024 Charity Golf Tournament at Santa Ana Golf Club

Details are at: https://storehousenm.org/ (and posted in the Welcome Center).

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Prayers for Fire Season: Dear RMS Community, three wildfires are currently burning on Colorado's Front Range: The Alexander Mountain Fire in Larimer County west of Loveland; The Stone Canyon Fire in Boulder County north of Lyons; and the Quarry Fire in Jefferson County near Deer Creek Canyon.
          Bishop Gonia and Bishop-elect Johnston Aelabouni have contacted the ministries and clergy near the active burn areas. The Office of the Bishop will continue to monitor the situation and communicate as needed. The RMS Disaster Response Team is available as the situation develops.
          As wildfires are part of our lives in the Rocky Mountain Synod, please contact us if your area or ministry is affected. In June, the New Mexico Deans actively monitored the South Fork and Salt Fires near Ruidoso, NM. Although we're not aware of any direct impacts to our ministries or leaders, we hold these areas, lands, and people in prayer.
          Today, we pray for first responders, firefighters, civic leaders, the family and friends of the person who died in the Stone Canyon Fire, for those who lost property and structures, all those who have evacuated or prepare for evacuation . . .

Let us pray,
O God, our refuge and strength, our help in times of trouble. Have mercy on the lands and lives damaged or destroyed by fires. Have mercy on the wildlife and domestic animals who shelter in these lands. Protect all who stand in harm's way in order to protect others. Accompany all who are particularly vulnerable or alone in dangerous conditions. We know that you are with us in fire, wind, and storm. Today, we pray for rain and relief. Drench the soil and our lives with your hope. Amen.

Thank you for your prayers. If you would like to donate to the RMS Disaster Response Fund, please go to the RMS website, https://www.rmselca.org/, scroll to the bottom, click on the Give button, and select, "RMS Disaster Response" from the dropdown menu -- Thank you.

A Final Word from Bishop Jim Gonia:
Dear Beloved of the Rocky Mountain Synod, as I prepare to conclude my call as your bishop on July 31, I want to express my profound thanks for the opportunity to be on the journey with you these last twelve years. A full one third of my 36 years of ordained ministry has been spent as synod – literally on the way together – with you. I am grateful not only for the celebrations and milestone moments we have experienced, but for the challenges that have helped us grow and learn together.
          It is with immense joy that I welcome the Rev Dr Meghan Aelabouni to her call as our next bishop. Her leadership, insights and passion will be a tremendous gift in this new season. I trust that you will surround her with your prayers, love and support.
          For those who are wondering what comes next for me, I am retiring from ministry in the church and will use this next chapter of life to explore other interests and opportunities, including my love of photography and time with my family. I am excited to see what new ventures may lie ahead.
It’s been my practice when presiding at a blessing of transition for a pastor or deacon, to invite the minister and Council leaders to share words of affirmation and encouragement. In closing, I leave you with a few of my own heartfelt affirmations and encouragements.

My Affirmations:

• This is a healthy synod, full of vital congregations and ministries, served by faithful and talented rostered ministers. Thank you for the countless ways you proclaim and embody the gospel every day.

• This is a synod with a rich diversity of contexts, with a proven commitment to being connected across the miles and to serving the neighbor. I am grateful for how you live out church better together for the sake of the world.

• This is a synod open to new ideas, to new ways of being and becoming church. I appreciate your willingness to experiment and take risks for the sake of the gospel.

My Encouragements:

• Keep God’s inclusive unconditional love in Jesus front and center – a gospel of grace matters more than ever to our neighbors and world. Don't be shy to share it!

• Trust the Holy Spirit to lead you into new horizons of being the Body of Christ. Be bold to explore paths as yet untrodden.

• Remember your call to be God's both/and people in this either/or world. It will mark your witness and service as Christ's Church.

And now, dear friends, all that remains is to offer these words of blessing:
May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Yours in Faith, Bishop Jim Gonia

Uplifting Video, Week in Review, from the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering! Take a look back at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering where 16,000 youth met in New Orleans for an inspiring week of faith formation under the theme “Created to Be.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6tkL7DyXnw (link is also posted at elca.org).

$250,000 Summer Matching Gift Challenge: Bread for the World members have recently been given a remarkable chance to triple your impact to end hunger. Thanks to a $250,000 matching gift from a group of generous supporters, your gift today will go 3X as far! This match comes at a critical moment for Bread’s advocacy work, as we are currently working on August in-district meetings with members of Congress. This is one of the key times we connect with legislators each year and urge them to increase funding for hunger programs. Visit bread.org.
And read about the Food For Peace program as it celebrates its 70th anniversary at: https://www.bread.org/article/food-for-peace-70th-anniversary/

Recent updates highlighting LWR’s impact around the world are at: https://lwr.org/news, including the following:

LWR Quilts & Kits arrive immediately after attack on Ukrainian children’s hospital. Imagine if an enemy unleashed missiles on a children’s hospital like St. Jude’s. It’s hard to fathom the cruelty of targeting sick children and hardworking hospital staff... But that's exactly what happened in Ukraine on July 8. Okhmatdyt hospital is one of Ukraine’s largest facilities for children with cancer, and it was badly damaged by Russian missiles. As soon as the attack stopped, Lutheran World Relief staff — who were working nearby and sheltering in subway tunnels — rushed to provide support.

Updates Beginning 28 July 2024

Tomorrow, 7/29 at 6pm in the Sanctuary: Shareback from the West Bank. iusti Remer-Thamert will share about their recent solidarity trip to the West Bank, working with a Palestinian-led movement committed to resisting the long-entrenched oppression of Palestinians. We will explore how the war against Gaza and the ongoing land grabs in the West Bank are tied in to the legacy of colonization and Christian Zionism within the U.S.  iusti will uplift first hand experiences of colonial encroachment, harassment, and land theft by settlers and occupation forces in the South Hebron Hills, as well as ongoing Indigenous Palestinian existence and resistance. ~ iusti Remer-Thamert

This Week: Our Sanctuary Project Starts! Come Help with the Demo on Friday and Saturday, 9am-5pm. There is a signup sheet in the Welcome Center—pick a two-hour slot and come work alongside fellow members and the construction crew. Many hands make light work! ~Deborah Ash

First Tuesdays - Yep, more than one.  Both will be on the first Tuesday of August and September starting at 4:00 pm at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE.  It is still time to be inside during the afternoons, so bring a snack to share and spend time visiting with other folks from church.  The dates you should circle on your calendar are 8/6 and 9/3.  Just make the September gathering an extension of Labor Day! ~Nancy Matthews

Our July God’s Work Our Hands project wraps up this week. We are collecting items for the Ronald McDonald House of NM (https://www.rmhc-nm.org/). They are finding themselves very low on all paper goods: paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates and bowls. They are currently seeing around 1500 more people this year than last, and their stock has been quickly depleted and is costing a lot. Also welcome are travel-size toiletries, individually wrapped snacks, juice boxes, and any new toys. There is a box for donations in the Welcome Center through July. Thank you for responding to their request for assistance! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Would you help??  Bob and Nancy Matthews will be gone 8/25-9/22. Would you sit in the lobby during church service for one of those Sundays to welcome latecomers? For more information, just talk to them after church any Sunday before 8/25. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires and floods will put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Prayer Cycle for July is the North New Mexico Conference. Each month we pray for the rostered ministers, congregations, and ministries throughout the Rocky Mountain Synod and our Churchwide expression.

ELCA Youth Gathering Wraps Up in New Orleans: Read about it at https://www.livinglutheran.org/2024/07/2024-elca-youth-gathering-kicks-off-in-new-orleans/.

Bishop Eaton Addresses Political Violence: ELCA Presiding Bishop Eaton has written on recent events at https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8244.

Bach’s St. John Passion from Lutheran Summer Music available to stream at: https://www.youtube.com/@lutheransummermusic, as well other July recordings!

ELCA Truth and Healing Movement-Upcoming Opportunities: Visit
https://elca.org/Our-Work/Congregations-and-Synods/Ministries-of-Diverse-Cultures-and-Communities/Indigenous-Ministries-and-Tribal-Relations/Truth-and-Healing-Movement.

Updates Beginning 21 July 2024

Today: Congregational Informational/Ask All Your Questions Meeting-Sanctuary Infill Project. We will meet with our contractor, Brian O’Connell. Grab some refreshments and return to the Sanctuary. ~Pr. Koppel

Our July God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting items for the Ronald McDonald House of New Mexico (https://www.rmhc-nm.org/). They are finding themselves very low on all paper goods: paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates and bowls. They are currently seeing around 1500 more people this year than last, and their stock has been quickly depleted and is costing a lot. Also welcome are travel-size toiletries, individually wrapped snacks, juice boxes, and any new toys. There is a box for donations in the Welcome Center through July. Thank you for responding to their request for assistance! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Adopted Families: Our Adopted Families community has just increased by one 4lb. baby boy. Noelia, a committee member, has a longtime friend who is in the hospital with her newborn baby and is in desperate need of items for her tiny son: diapers, wipes, and clothes. Knowing that even tiny babies grow quickly, we ask you to think about how little he is now but that his needs will change as he grows over the next months before she can get back to work. There will be a collection box in the Welcome Center for your contributions. Thank you! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

This Week: Calico Butterfly Preschool Picnic! Dear congregation, you are welcome to come to our 1st  End of the Summer Picnic on Thursday, July 25th from 5-7pm. We are going to meet in the area west of the playground. We are going to provide hot dogs and buns. We are asking the families to bring drinks, fruit, baby carrots, ranch dip, chips, or cookies. If you would like to bring something, please feel free to do so. Please bring your lawn chairs. Dinner will be at 5pm. From 5:30 pm to 5:45 pm or 6pm there are going to be games for the children in which the parents will  participate. After the games are over, we are going to end with a “foam party” hour. I hope that you can make it! ~Marisol Flores-Gutierrez, Preschool Director

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires downstate will put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

Note: Luther House’s 2023-2024 Year End Report is posted in the Welcome Center.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Prayer Cycle for July is the North New Mexico Conference. Each month we pray for the rostered ministers, congregations, and ministries throughout the Rocky Mountain Synod and our Churchwide expression.

Updates Beginning 14 July 2024

Next Sunday, 21 July: Congregational Informational/Ask All Your Questions Meeting. Following worship we will meet with our contractor, Brian O’Connell. Grab some refreshments and return to the Sanctuary. ~Pr. Koppel

Our July God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting items for the Ronald McDonald House of New Mexico (https://www.rmhc-nm.org/). Michaela Wood, Volunteer and Program Coordinator, reached out to St. Paul directly. They are finding themselves very low on all paper goods: paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates and bowls. They are currently seeing around 1500 more people this year than last, and their stock has been quickly depleted and is costing a lot. Also welcome are travel-size toiletries, individually wrapped snacks, juice boxes, and any new toys. There is a box for donations in the Welcome Center through July. Thank you for responding to their request for assistance! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Adopted Families: Our Adopted Families community has just increased by one 4lb. baby boy. Noelia, a committee member, has a longtime friend who is in the hospital with her newborn baby and is in desperate need of items for her tiny son: diapers, wipes, and clothes. Knowing that even tiny babies grow quickly, we ask you to think about how little he is now but that his needs will change as he grows over the next months before she can get back to work. There will be a collection box in the Welcome Center for your contributions. Thank you! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Calico Butterfly Preschool Picnic! Dear congregation, you are welcome to come to our 1st  End of the Summer Picnic on Thursday, July 25th from 5-7pm. We are going to meet in the area west of the playground. We are going to provide hot dogs and buns. We are asking the families to bring drinks, fruit, baby carrots, ranch dip, chips, or cookies. If you would like to bring something, please feel free to do so. Please bring your lawn chairs. Dinner will be at 5pm. From 5:30 pm to 5:45 pm or 6pm there are going to be games for the children in which the parents will  participate. After the games are over, we are going to end with a “foam party” hour. I hope that you can make it! ~Marisol Flores-Gutierrez, Preschool Director

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Prayer Shawls. Our basket is empty. I am putting out a call for all prayer shawl makers. If you are able, we would appreciate it if you could get your knitting or crochet needles out and make some more prayer shawls. If you need yarn, we have lots in the sewing room. Check at the front desk for the key and take what you need to make a shawl or two. I am counting on all you talented people to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton, Prayer Shawl Chairperson

Love kids?  Love sharing God’s love?  Maybe you are feeling a nudge to share a Children’s Message during Sunday worship!  Here are some things to help you think about it:
·        The key takeaways: God’s love for us, our love for God and neighbor, AND having fun!
·        There are four scripture passages prescribed for each Sunday from the Revised Common Lectionary.  Messages may be based on one of these or something altogether different.  There are loads of resources, and we’re happy to help.
·        Since we have a broad age-range of youth, brief (5 minutes or so) is best.
·        You can do it as often as you like.  Once a year, great!  More than once a year, great!
Thank you for considering!  If you’d like more information, please be in touch with pastor and/or sign up in the Welcome Center. ~Worship & Music Team: Terry Cole (chair), Jan Bowers, Jo Browning, Raul Manjarrez, Karin Urban, Janet Vrudny, and Pastor Koppel 

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires downstate will put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

National Youth Gathering Update. It's time for the 2024 Gathering in New Orleans! The MYLE and tABLE events begin this weekend, and the Gathering begins on July 16th. Please continue to hold Gathering staff and volunteers, youth and leaders, bus drivers and pilots, all of the people who will be in attendance or connected to the event in your prayers.

RMS Prayer Cycle for July is the North New Mexico Conference. Each month we pray for the rostered ministers, congregations, and ministries throughout the Rocky Mountain Synod and our Churchwide expression. Please pray for the congregations and clergy of the North New Mexico Conference.

Livestream LSM 2024 throughout July! Lutheran Summer Music invites you to livestream over 30 inspiring concerts, recitals, and worship services throughout the entire month of July. Performances and services are shared by over 250 students, faculty, fellows, worship staff, and guest artists who come together to create a vibrant community of music-makers. You won't want to miss this! To explore the schedule and access the livestream and video archive, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@lutheransummermusic

Updates Beginning 7 July 2024

Adopted Families: Our Adopted Families community has just increased by one 4lb. baby boy. Noelia, a committee member, has a longtime friend who is in the hospital with her newborn baby and is in desperate need of items for her tiny son: diapers, wipes, and clothes. Knowing that even tiny babies grow quickly, we ask you to think about how little he is now but that his needs will change as he grows over the next months before she can get back to work. There will be a collection box in the Welcome Center for your contributions. Thank you! ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Our July God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting items for the Ronald McDonald House of New Mexico (https://www.rmhc-nm.org/). Michaela Wood, Volunteer and Program Coordinator, reached out to St. Paul directly. They are finding themselves very low on all paper goods: paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates and bowls. They are currently seeing around 1500 more people this year than last, and their stock has been quickly depleted and is costing a lot. Also welcome are travel-size toiletries, individually wrapped snacks, juice boxes, and any new toys. There is a box for donations in the Welcome Center through July. Thank you for responding to their request for assistance! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp is Now! Please see the dates and address information in the July at St. Paul calendar on the back. If you would like to give cash for our campers’ “Pop Shop” accounts, please leave with the office and we will make sure it is credited there. And please consider dropping our campers a note via email or snail mail or send along something fun that shows you are thinking of them! ~Deborah Ash

Calico Butterfly Preschool Picnic! Dear congregation, you are welcome to come to our 1st  End of the Summer Picnic on Thursday, July 25th from 5-7pm. We are going to meet in the area west of the playground. We are going to provide hot dogs and buns. We are asking the families to bring drinks, fruit, baby carrots, ranch dip, chips, or cookies. If you would like to bring something, please feel free to do so. Please bring your lawn chairs. Dinner will be at 5pm. From 5:30 pm to 5:45 pm or 6pm there are going to be games for the children in which the parents will  participate. After the games are over, we are going to end with a “foam party” hour. I hope that you can make it! ~Marisol Flores-Gutierrez, Preschool Director

Prayer Shawls. Our basket is empty. I am putting out a call for all prayer shawl makers. If you are able, we would appreciate it if you could get your knitting or crochet needles out and make some more prayer shawls. If you need yarn, we have lots in the sewing room. Check at the front desk for the key and take what you need to make a shawl or two. I am counting on all you talented people to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton, Prayer Shawl Chairperson

Love kids?  Love sharing God’s love?  Maybe you are feeling a nudge to share a Children’s Message during Sunday worship!  Here are some things to help you think about it:
·        The key takeaways: God’s love for us, our love for God and neighbor, AND having fun!
·        There are four scripture passages prescribed for each Sunday from the Revised Common Lectionary.  Messages may be based on one of these or something altogether different.  There are loads of resources, and we’re happy to help.
·        Since we have a broad age-range of youth, brief (5 minutes or so) is best.
·        You can do it as often as you like.  Once a year, great!  More than once a year, great!
Thank you for considering!  If you’d like more information, please be in touch with pastor and/or sign up in the Welcome Center. ~Worship & Music Team: Terry Cole (chair), Jan Bowers, Jo Browning, Raul Manjarrez, Karin Urban, Janet Vrudny, and Pastor Koppel 

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires downstate will put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews 

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Prayer Cycle for July is the North New Mexico Conference. Each month we pray for the rostered ministers, congregations, and ministries throughout the Rocky Mountain Synod and our Churchwide expression. Please pray for the congregations and clergy of the North New Mexico Conference.

Update from Border Servant Corps: Thank you for your support, advocacy, and contributions -- you made a difference! Border Servant Corps' EFSP-H funding extended through September 2024 to continue to support the ministry of welcome for newly-arrived migrants in El Paso and New Mexico. We cannot express our gratitude enough – many, many thanks! ~Kari Lenander, Executive Director, https://www.borderservantcorps.org/

Help Supply Items for Hurricane Relief Kits. You can be part of our exciting ELCA 2024 Youth Gathering in New Orleans (16-20 July) even if you aren't sending youth from your adults. We invite you to help be part of our Service Learning Day by donating small personal battery operated fans from the Target Gift Registry. In the aftermath of a storm, hurricane or tornado, New Orleans residents can find themselves without electricity and in a crisis. Each of the 9 Regions of the ELCA is sending to New Orleans items to make disaster relief kits. Your donation of our Region 2 in-kind offering (the small fans) will be used to make up 3000 kits. It is simple to make this donation. Donations are sent right to New Orleans follow this link https://www.target.com/gift-registry/gift-giver?registryId=e7018790-eb8c-11ee-8811-17f737ff4d39&type=CHARITY to make your donation. 

Bread for the World. Join staff and advocates in your area for your next regional online meeting. Our July meetings will include a recap of our recent Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., an update on the farm bill and the Nourish our Future campaign, and preparation to meet with candidates and members of Congress in August and September. Southwest Regional Online Meeting (AZ, NM, OK, TX)hosted by Ken Fujimoto on Thursday, July 11 at 3 p.m. (CT) https://www.bread.org/event/2024-july-regional-online-meetings/

Updates Beginning 30 June 2024

First Tuesday will be July 2nd at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE between 4:00 - 6:00pm.  This is a time to gather together socially without having to run off to church meetings or education class.  Come join us.  Bring a snack to share!

Love kids?  Love sharing God’s love?  Maybe you are feeling a nudge to share a Children’s Message during Sunday worship!  Here are some things to help you think about it:
·        The key takeaways: God’s love for us, our love for God and neighbor, AND having fun!
·        There are four scripture passages prescribed for each Sunday from the Revised Common Lectionary.  Messages may be based on one of these or something altogether different.  There are loads of resources, and we’re happy to help.
·        Since we have a broad age-range of youth, brief (5 minutes or so) is best.
·        You can do it as often as you like.  Once a year, great!  More than once a year, great!
Thank you for considering!  If you’d like more information, please be in touch with pastor and/or sign up in the Welcome Center. ~Worship & Music Team: Terry Cole (chair), Jan Bowers, Jo Browning, Raul Manjarrez, Karin Urban, Janet Vrudny, and Pastor Koppel

Adopted Families: A client advocate from Healthcare for the Homeless contacted me again looking for help for two more bus tickets. In the first case, the client had come to Albuquerque for a funeral and while he was here he had all of his stuff stolen. We had the funds so I paid $104 for a ticket to get him back home. In the second case, the advocate told me that the client is an electrician that had been working on rehabbing houses in another state. After a divorce he came here to try to reconnect with his children. That didn't work out so he needed to get back to where he has a job and a place to stay waiting for him. His ticket cost $102. Both clients (and the client advocate) were very grateful for our help. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp is Coming Up! Please see the dates and address information in the July at St. Paul calendar on the back. If you would like to give cash for our campers’ “Pop Shop” accounts, please leave with the office and we will make sure it is credited there. And please consider dropping our campers a note via email or snail mail or send along something fun that shows you are thinking of them! ~Deborah Ash

Prayer Shawls. Our basket is empty. I am putting out a call for all prayer shawl makers. If you are able, we would appreciate it if you could get your knitting or crochet needles out and make some more prayer shawls. If you need yarn, we have lots in the sewing room. Check at the front desk for the key and take what you need to make a shawl or two. I am counting on all you talented people to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton, Prayer Shawl Chairperson

A Thank You to St. Paul:
Dear Friends, thank you for your generous contribution of $5,000. Your contribution is important to ABQ FaithWorks and helps us achieve our vision that “All people are safely housed and integrated into healthy communities of their choice”. As you may know, ABQ FaithWorks provides a variety of direct services in both our Asylum Program and our Unhoused Program. We rely on volunteers and financial support like yours to continue to serve some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Your support is greatly appreciated. Respectfully, Hannah Albee, Executive Director

Our June’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in July at Hope Works. (Note “July FFF” on your check.) Thank you for helping to help others provide that 4th of July meal next week! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Fires downstate will put a strain on the food banks. We have Storehouse collection barrels in the Narthex for food items for people and pets.  Please share what you can.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Historic Neighborhood Gets New Multigenerational Center. The new Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center has opened less than a year after groundbreaking. This 5,000 square foot building features a large multi-purpose space that converts to an indoor pickleball court, computer lab, classroom, warming kitchen, lobby, and office area. Available services include senior meals, out-of-school programs, and a wide variety of opportunities for fitness, recreation, and social enrichment. https://www.cabq.gov/seniors/news/legacy-neighborhood-gets-new-multigenerational-center

New Young Adult Housing Navigation Center On The Way. The City of Albuquerque’s vision for a specialty housing navigation center for young adults age 18-25 is one step closer to reality. The City closed on the purchase of the San Mateo Inn at 2424 San Mateo Blvd NE, in City Council District 7. The hotel will be renovated into a housing navigation center providing age-appropriate wraparound services to help young adults access permanent housing and become self-sufficient.
https://www.cabq.gov/health-housing-homelessness/news/new-young-adult-housing-navigation-center-on-the-way

“Operation Cooldown 2024” Activated to Help Beat the Heat. The City’s Parks & Recreation Department (PRD) activated “Operation Cooldown 2024” as temperatures  hit the triple digits. The program was first launched in mid-July 2023. The City also announced available resources for the unsheltered and at-risk populations. During Operation Cooldown 2024, every day that the temperature is predicted to reach 100 degrees or above, PRD will offer sprinkler play in four parks across the City from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. for the community to enjoy. https://www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/news/201coperation-cooldown-2024201d-activated-to-help-beat-the-heat

Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) Headquarters Now Open. The ACS Department now has a permanent home at San Mateo near Kathryn. The new dedicated headquarters are the first for a behavioral health response department in the nation and will allow ACS to grow roots to better serve the community. ACS is the city’s third branch of first responders, sending trained professionals with backgrounds in behavioral and mental health and social services to non-violent and non-medical calls.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Interpreting the Bible with Grace, Saturday, July 13 - 10 am-3 pm, All Saints Lutheran Church, 4800 All Saints Rd. NW 87120. Join us for a half-day conversation about the Bible with Rev. Dr. Mark Allen Powell! We’ll talk about where the Bible comes from, how to interpret it in context, and how we are to understand the Bible for our own times. The session reflects on seven questions about Lutherans and the Bible. He does not prescribe “the Lutheran way" to read the Bible nor does he dismiss the way you may have come to understand the Bible. Instead, Dr. Powell presents a variety of Lutheran perspectives for interpreting the Bible.
          Dr. Powell was a Professor of New Testament at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio until his retirement in 2018. He is editor of the HarperCollins Bible Dictionary and author of more than 100 articles and 35 books on the Bible and religion. He has also worked as a professional music critic, with more than 1000 published reviews in the fields of rock and pop music. The two fields of music criticism and religious scholarship come together in the Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music, his critical survey and analysis of artists in both the religious and mainstream markets who have produced faith-oriented products.
          RSVP to Krysta at All Saints by phone (505-898-3932) or email (office@allsaintsabq.org) by July 1. Lunch is included. When you RSVP, please let Krysta know if you have any dietary needs.

Tres Hermanas Farm Program Purpose: Empowering newcomers (refugees + asylees) through our agricultural programming—providing resources, education, and training to cultivate self-sufficiency, community integration, and strengthen cultural food security within New Mexico’s food landscape.
          In late May, twenty-three students completed NMSU ICAN's gardening course. This was a six-week course teaching best practices for gardening in New Mexico. Students designed and planted the learning garden at our office and will continue to maintain and harvest from the garden throughout the growing season. All of our graduates received grow bags, soil, tools, plant starts, and seeds so they can continue to grow vegetables at home.
          We have five groups of avid gardeners growing at Project Feed the Hood Community Garden and Grow Your Own Garden/Le Jardin Verde this season--they've been busy filling their gardens with summer vegetables! 
To join our volunteer listserv or explore other ways to support our program, please email us at treshermanasfarm@lfsrm.org
          As always--we appreciate your support! If you'd like to make a monetary donation, kindly make your check payable to "Tres Hermanas Farm" and mail it to Tres Hermanas Farm/Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains, 230 Truman St. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. Or you can donate through the LFSRM donate page and write “Tres Hermanas Farm” in the comment section. Thank you for contributing to our program! give.lfsrm.org

Our friends at Border Servant Corps recently hosted a wonderful group of young adults from across the country for our Young Adult Border Immersion in partnership with ELCA Young Adults, AMMPARO and ELCA Advocacy. It was an incredible week of learning, growing and community building in the borderlands. Now, Border Servant Corps needs our help. Unless the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) addresses transition issues with grant funding, Border Servant Corps will be forced to close the two largest 24/7 migrant shelters in El Paso and southern New Mexico, the only Port Reception Site for all CBP One process migrants in the El Paso Sector, and the only Airport Reception Team in the region. Urge CBP, FEMA, and the EFSP National Board to provide an extension to allow for the full expenditure of awarded funding. Sign on today: https://lirs.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1ba26e3c84448d9ea4814c790&id=1aac22b288&e=2f360c0226
Join Global Refuge President and CEO Krish O'Mara Vignarajah as she marks our 85th anniversary with a special video message!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lX9upNhoPVg

ELCA Sumud: A Request for Advocacy. From Sumud (formerly Peace Not Walls) comes a request for advocacy regarding bills that are currently under consideration by the Senate regarding the tax-exempt status of organizations that "support terrorism." The terms of the bill have been applied subjectively and indiscriminately in attempts to revoke the tax-exempt status of organizations that have advocated for Palestinian rights.
https://give.elca.org/page/email?mid=f233e1860d244d16a548b2e5573c2ab7

Help Supply Items for Hurricane Relief Kits. You can be part of our exciting ELCA 2024 Youth Gathering in New Orleans (16-20 July) even if you aren't sending youth from your adults. We invite you to help be part of our Service Learning Day by donating small personal battery operated fans from the Target Gift Registry. In the aftermath of a storm, hurricane or tornado New Orleans residents can find themselves without electricity and in a crisis. Each of the 9 Regions of the ELCA is sending to New Orleans items to make disaster relief kits. Your donation of our Region 2 in-kind offering (the small fans) will be used to make up 3000 kits. It is simple to make this donation. Donations are sent right to New Orleans follow this link https://www.target.com/gift-registry/gift-giver?registryId=e7018790-eb8c-11ee-8811-17f737ff4d39&type=CHARITY to make your donation. 

Each issue of Lutheran World Relief Special Reports is a testament to the incredible difference compassionate neighbors like you can make when we come together for a common cause. Thank you for joining us on this mission. Your love makes a real difference. https://lwr.org/downloads

I hope you will join Bread for the World staff and advocates in your area for your next regional online meeting, where you will be encouraged and equipped to pursue a world without hunger! Our July meetings will include a recap of our recent Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., an update on the farm bill and the Nourish our Future campaign, and preparation to meet with candidates and members of Congress in August and September. Don’t miss it!
          Earlier this month, more than 200 Bread advocates from across the country came to Washington, D.C., to share their stories and urge Congress to pass a farm bill that prioritizes families facing hunger. At your July regional meeting, we’ll bring you up to speed on the stories and impact of this year’s Summit! Southwest Regional Online Meeting (AZ, NM, OK, TX) hosted by Ken Fujimoto on Thursday, July 11 at 3 p.m. (CT)
https://www.bread.org/event/2024-july-regional-online-meetings/
During the 2024 Advocacy Summit – Nourish Our Future, we were honored to feature a video from USAID Administrator Samantha Power highlighting the vital impact of Bread’s work. With 164 million people facing severe or crisis levels of food insecurity, our advocacy has never been more crucial. https://give.bread.org/s/2631037/5bSzYV6W
          Bread For The World’s 2023 Impact Report is now available: https://www.bread.org/impact-report/
          While these are challenging and even exhausting times, may we be reminded by these words from Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not become weary in doing good....” Together, we are making a difference every single day. ~Rev. Eugene Cho, President and CEO

Read Presiding Bishop Eaton’s article this month, We Are Also Citizens. “Active participation in public life has been part of the Lutheran movement from its beginning. Lutherans don’t withdraw from public life.”
https://www.livinglutheran.org/2024/06/we-are-also-citizens/

Jennifer Hockenbery, Ph.D., a college dean, philosophy professor, and editor of the Journal of Lutheran Ethics, will serve as interim churchwide executive director of Women of the ELCA, beginning July 1. Hockenbery is serving a 12-month term following the retirement of Linda Post Bushkofsky, who served 22 years in the role.

https://www.womenoftheelca.org/blog/news/hockenbery-to-serve-as-interim-executive-director-of-women-of-the-elca

Updates Beginning 23 June 2024

Our June God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in July at Hope Works. (Note “July FFF” on your check.) Thank you for helping to help others provide that 4th of July meal! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Adopted Families: Heartfelt thanks to all who donated adult diapers and related items. Noelia (our committee member who knows many folks in need) reports that she has handed out everything and the recipients were very appreciative. On another note, I received a call from a woman who had a "hospital" bed she wanted to donate. With the planning and help of Noelia and Paula Eglinton, the bed was retrieved from the woman's storage unit and delivered to a woman in her 90's who is very frail and bedridden. I know this will make life a little better for her as well as for her daughter and grandchildren who are her caregivers. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews 

Have a favorite short Bible verse to share? We are looking for ideas for our electronic sign. Please email info@stpaulabq.org. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Interpreting the Bible with Grace, Saturday, July 13 - 10 am-3 pm, All Saints Lutheran Church, 4800 All Saints Rd. NW 87120. Join us for a half-day conversation about the Bible with Rev. Dr. Mark Allen Powell! We’ll talk about where the Bible comes from, how to interpret it in context, and how we are to understand the Bible for our own times. The session reflects on seven questions about Lutherans and the Bible. He does not prescribe “the Lutheran way" to read the Bible nor does he dismiss the way you may have come to understand the Bible. Instead, Dr. Powell presents a variety of Lutheran perspectives for interpreting the Bible.
          Dr. Powell was a Professor of New Testament at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio until his retirement in 2018. He is editor of the HarperCollins Bible Dictionary and author of more than 100 articles and 35 books on the Bible and religion. He has also worked as a professional music critic, with more than 1000 published reviews in the fields of rock and pop music. The two fields of music criticism and religious scholarship come together in the Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music, his critical survey and analysis of artists in both the religious and mainstream markets who have produced faith-oriented products.
          RSVP to Krysta at All Saints by phone (505-898-3932) or email (office@allsaintsabq.org) by July 1. Lunch is included. When you RSVP, please let Krysta know if you have any dietary needs.

Dear church,

In response to the horrific, ongoing violence in and around Gaza, I recently shared a new message (https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8228) calling on us to continue to pray for those who suffer and grieve, advocate for an immediate cease-fire and walk with all who long for a just peace.
          The ELCA is walking with many partners in the region, including the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land and Augusta Victoria Hospital, to address the most pressing needs for people in the areas surrounding Gaza, including the West Bank and other Occupied Territories. Right now, we are helping meet many essential needs such as food, water, health care, shelter, keeping schools open, mental health care and providing medical supplies. There is so much yet to be done.
          When the cease-fire comes and when, God willing, our partners can reestablish work in Gaza, our church stands ready to continue our response. A gift today will equip Lutheran Disaster Response to walk with neighbors to rebuild their lives and communities. To give, visit: https://elca.org/Our-Work/Relief-and-Development/Lutheran-Disaster-Response

The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton
Presiding Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Updates Beginning 16 June 2024

Adopted Families: Heartfelt thanks to all who donated adult diapers and related items. Noelia (our committee member who knows many folks in need) reports that she has handed out everything and the recipients were very appreciative. On another note, I received a call from a woman who had a "hospital" bed she wanted to donate. With the planning and help of Noelia and Paula Eglinton, the bed was retrieved from the woman's storage unit and delivered to a woman in her 90's who is very frail and bedridden. I know this will make life a little better for her as well as for her daughter and grandchildren who are her caregivers. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Our June’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in July at Hope Works. (Note “July FFF” on your check.) Thank you for helping to help others provide that 4th of July meal! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Have a favorite short Bible verse to share? We are looking for ideas for our electronic sign. Please email info@stpaulabq.org. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Announcing: Facility Use Rental Agreement-Parking Lot

June 14, 2024 

Hello wonderful SPLC community,
          Your congregational council would like to let you know about a facility use/rental opportunity that has recently been signed and approved.
          SPLC was approached earlier this month by construction firm, Bradbury & Stamm, with the announcement the UNM Cancer Center is beginning construction on an expansion in the vacant lot just north of their current building - east of our parking lot. Their representatives at that time inquired about the possibility of renting parking from SPLC. This seemed like an almost no brainer and a wonderful opportunity!
          For minimal impact, SPLC agreed and negotiated to receive $3,000 per month - $36,000 annual - for rental of 38 parking spots. What a blessing this is as we look toward the (very) soon construction of the sanctuary infill/ramp and building repairs.
          You'll notice the curb of the easternmost row of parking spots are painted green, as well as a few additional spots (see FAQ below), and soon signage will be posted designating the spaces for use by Bradbury & Stamm.          

Rental Highlights Include:
-      13 month contract with possibility for extension
-      $3,000 per month for: 38 parking spaces
-      Monday - Thursday, 6am to 5 pm
-      Painting, signage, and liability insurance all provided by Bradbury & Stamm
They will construct and provide all necessary walkways, gates, trash receptacles, and anything else needed.
          All of this should have minimal impact on our community. All precautions will be taken to ensure safety at Calico Preschool. Bradbury & Stamm is more than amenable and willing to work with SPLC as we navigate this new relationship. Including, being flexible to accommodate any events SPLC may need the rented parking spaces for taking place during business hours.
          As a congregation we are gifted with the stewardship opportunities this magnificent physical location can provide. My hope as congregation president is this new relationship is just the beginning for SPLC to expand our community, stabilize, and grow.
I would like to thank Dave Kelly for spearheading the contract process, Chris Moody for offering his legal guidance, the Finance Team, and Pr. Kristi and Congregational Council for their support and leadership.  

Good and Godly things are happening - alleluia!
Peace and Light be with you,
Sara Love
SPLC Council President

From Local Partner Organizations

Jewish Voice for Peace Event: Study & Action for Palestine - an online course from White Awake.  Mondays, beginning June 17 from 6-7:30 PM, sessions recorded. For more information and to register: https://mailchi.mp/whiteawake/palestine-solidarity-summer-2024-online-course

Please join ABQ FaithWorks between now and June 20th to support the asylum seekers we walk with through our World Refugee Day campaign. Donate, share, or create your own fundraising page to widen our community of support for all newcomers! Simply go to www.abqfaithworks.org and click on "Start Now".
And on June 21st at 6:00 pm, we will be celebrating the culmination of this campaign with a simple potluck supper at First Unitarian Universalist Church, Memorial Hall. To sign up for the potluck, go to: https://bit.ly/3XjywK1 (This potluck form will also be on the campaign page at abqfaithworks.org.) Thank you! ~Dora Gallegos

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Help Supply Items for Hurricane Relief Kits: You can be part of our exciting ELCA 2024 Youth Gathering (16-20 July) in New Orleans even if you aren't sending youth from your church. We invite you to help be part of our Service Learning Day by donating small personal battery operated fans from the Target Gift Registry. In the aftermath of a storm, hurricane or tornado, New Orleans residents can find themselves without electricity and in a crisis. Each of the 9 Regions of the ELCA is sending to New Orleans items to make disaster relief kits. Your donation of our Region 2 in-kind offering (the small fans) will be used to make up 3000 kits. Donations are sent right to New Orleans. To make your donation, follow this link:
https://www.target.com/gift-registry/gift-giver?registryId=e7018790-eb8c-11ee-8811-17f737ff4d39&type=CHARITY 

Interpreting the Bible with Grace, Saturday, July 13 - 10 am-3 pm, All Saints Lutheran Church, 4800 All Saints Rd. NW 87120. Join us for a half-day conversation about the Bible with Rev. Dr. Mark Allen Powell! We’ll talk about where the Bible comes from, how to interpret it in context, and how we are to understand the Bible for our own times. The session reflects on seven questions about Lutherans and the Bible. He does not prescribe “the Lutheran way" to read the Bible nor does he dismiss the way you may have come to understand the Bible. Instead, Dr. Powell presents a variety of Lutheran perspectives for interpreting the Bible.
          Dr. Powell was a Professor of New Testament at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio until his retirement in 2018. He is editor of the HarperCollins Bible Dictionary and author of more than 100 articles and 35 books on the Bible and religion. He has also worked as a professional music critic, with more than 1000 published reviews in the fields of rock and pop music. The two fields of music criticism and religious scholarship come together in the Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music, his critical survey and analysis of artists in both the religious and mainstream markets who have produced faith-oriented products.
          RSVP to Krysta at All Saints by phone (505-898-3932) or email (office@allsaintsabq.org) by July 1. Lunch is included. When you RSVP, please let Krysta know if you have any dietary needs. 

2024 Summer Women of the ELCA Gather Bible study is by the Rev. Dr. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni (our new RMS Bishop!). A global pandemic, political upheaval, a changing climate… these days, the future is more uncertain than it has ever been. Or is it? For the people of the Bible, life was often shaped by deep uncertainty. Encounters with God sparked awe, confusion or courage, but rarely certainty. Instead, God’s people have always been called to follow God into the unknown, trusting in God’s certain grace and love. This three-session summer Bible study explores God’s invitation to the people of the Bible and to us, to take the holy journey beyond certainty to curiosity, community and compassion, where we find abundant life in Christ. Visit: https://www.gathermagazine.org/summer-2024-after-certainty-a-biblical-guide-by-the-rev-dr-meghan-johnston-aelabouni/

Bishop Eaton Issues Message on the War in Gaza: “Like the prophet Isaiah, we lament, ‘How long, O Lord?’” Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA, has issued a message on the war in Gaza, reiterating the church’s commitments: https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8228

Updates Beginning 9 June 2024

Thank You! to everyone from St. Paul who participated in yesterday’s Pride Parade – what a celebration! ~Jan Bowers

June’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be collecting donations for the Friends Feeding Friends’ “First Thursday” meal in July at Hope Works. (Note “July FFF” on your check.) Thank you to Hal Schultz and his team who provided June’s meal this past week! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Thank You! to Buzz Lenander, St. Paul’s Bread For The World Coordinator, for delivering the letters from our congregation directly to New Mexico’s congressional offices. ~Pr. Koppel

Our Margo is Turning 101 in June and we are collecting birthday cards! Pick up an updated information sheet in the Welcome Center for her party (new date!) hosted by daughter Cyndy, and leave your card off in the office by this Wednesday for delivery. Thanks! ~Julie Ambrogi

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Have a favorite short Bible verse to share? We are looking for ideas for our electronic sign. Please email info@stpaulabq.org. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Join ABQ FaithWorks to honor the Asylum Seekers we serve by taking part in our campaign for World Refugee Day. Simply give online or create your own fundraising page to widen the circle of support between now and June 20th. The more donors sign on with small gifts, the stronger our collaborative community becomes. The ambitious goal is 100 new donors, and $10,000, by June 20th. $3,000 will be matched by our generous Board of Directors! Give or start fundraising at https://bit.ly/4dBDtU5 (or see the link at www.abqfaithworks.org). ~Dora Gallegos

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

2024 Summer Gather Bible study is by the Rev. Dr. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni (our new RMS Bishop!). A global pandemic, political upheaval, a changing climate… these days, the future is more uncertain than it has ever been. Or is it? For the people of the Bible, life was often shaped by deep uncertainty. Encounters with God sparked awe, confusion or courage, but rarely certainty. Instead, God’s people have always been called to follow God into the unknown, trusting in God’s certain grace and love. This three-session summer Bible study explores God’s invitation to the people of the Bible and to us, to take the holy journey beyond certainty to curiosity, community and compassion, where we find abundant life in Christ. Visit: https://www.gathermagazine.org/summer-2024-after-certainty-a-biblical-guide-by-the-rev-dr-meghan-johnston-aelabouni/ [Note: St. Paul has Gather available in Friendship Corner.]

Bishop Eaton Issues Message on the War in Gaza: “Like the prophet Isaiah, we lament, ‘How long, O Lord?’” Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA, has issued a message on the war in Gaza, reiterating the church’s commitments: https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8228

Support storm and tornado survivors: Severe storms across the Midwestern and Southern United States have brought deadly tornadoes and flash flooding to millions of people. Your gifts to Lutheran Disaster Response ensure that survivors don't have to face the road to recovery alone. https://community.elca.org/lutherandisasterresponse

Please give by June 28 to double your impact! Provide hardworking families with the farming tools and healthy food they need to survive: lwr.org

Updates Beginning 2 June 2024

Congratulations to the Calico Butterfly Preschool graduates! The graduation ceremony and luncheon for the students and their families were held Friday in Fellowship Hall. ~Pr. Koppel

The Chancel Choir is off for the summer. We want to extend a huge Thank You! to them for “making a joyful noise unto the Lord” during our worship services, leading the congregation in song and providing special music. Janet and choir members, enjoy your break! ~Deborah Ash

Thank You! to everyone who helped to make Barbara Maxwell’s memorial service and reception so special yesterday. ~Sharon Hamilton

A Shareback from the West Bank: June 6th, 6-8pm in Santa Fe/Oga'Pogeh at Travel Bug, 839 Paseo de Peralta. Hear from two community members about their recent solidarity trip to the West Bank of Occupied Palestine, where they spent 3 weeks working with a Palestinian-led movement committed to resisting the long-entrenched and systematic oppression and dispossession of the Palestinian population using non-violent, direct-action methods and principles. This community share back will focus on first hand, on the ground experiences of daily colonial encroachment, harassment, and land theft by settlers and occupation forces in the South Hebron Hills of the West Bank, as well as ongoing Indigenous Palestinian existence and resistance. Sponsored by Southwest Coalition for Palestine, Abq Anti War Coalition, ABQ SURJ, NNM SURJ, Jewish Voices for Peace Albuquerque, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine, Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, and NM Jews for a Free Palestine. ~ iusti remer-thamert

The Pride Parade is this Saturday, 8 June: Those of you walking in the Pride Parade, meet here at St. Paul at 7:15am. We will carpool to the starting point. Bring water, sunscreen and whatever you need for your comfort, as it will be a few hours in the sun. We will have a wagon for toting our “stuff” and Pride umbrellas for additional shade. ~Jan Bowers

Thank You! to everyone who supported our May God’s Work Our Hands project. A wealth of senior supplies has been provided for the Adopted Families program to distribute. Stay tuned for details on our June project! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins 

Our Margo is Turning 101 in June and we are collecting birthday cards! Pick up an information sheet in the Welcome Center for her party hosted by daughter Cyndy and leave your card off in the office for delivery. Thanks! ~Julie Ambrogi

Adopted Families: A caseworker at Healthcare for the Homeless emailed me about another client who needed a bus ticket. The client is 45 years old and has been on the streets on and off for about five years. He has a chance to reunite with his family who live in a different part of the country. The client happened to be in the office with the caseworker when I called the caseworker, so I was able to complete the transaction for the online ticket purchase ($118) right away. The client was very grateful, thanking me twice and saying "God bless" just before hanging up. The caseworker explained to me some time ago that it's not easy to find transportation help like this, so it's a good feeling to be able to play a crucial role a client's effort to help himself. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Adopted Families Project Coordinator

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Join ABQ FaithWorks to honor the Asylum Seekers we serve by taking part in our campaign for World Refugee Day. Simply give online or create your own fundraising page to widen the circle of support between now and June 20th. The more donors sign on with small gifts, the stronger our collaborative community becomes. The ambitious goal is 100 new donors, and $10,000, by June 20th. $3,000 will be matched by our generous Board of Directors! Give or start fundraising at https://bit.ly/4dBDtU5 (or see the link at www.abqfaithworks.org). ~Dora Gallegos

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Lutheran Summer Music announces its 42nd season. All events take place this July at Valparaiso University, and most will be livestreamed. Performances and services are shared by over 250 students, faculty, fellows, worship staff, and guest artists who come together to create a vibrant community of music-makers. The LSM 2024 season will culminate during Festival Week (July 21-28), featuring the LSM Festival Band, Choir, and Orchestra, a Festival of Hymns, and closing each day with sung Evening Prayer. Of special note, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) will join the LSM community and offer an intergenerational performance of J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion. Visit LSMacademy.org/2024 for a full list of events and to access the livestream.

Updates Beginning 26 May 2024

Today: After service, we will sort the senior supplies received this month for May’s God’s Work Our Hands Project for Adopted Families. We have been collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. There is still time for you to bring in items this week as well, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

This Week: On May 28th at 6pm, iusti remer-thamert and another community member who recently joined a solidarity trip to the West Bank of occupied Palestine will share their experience. They spent 3 weeks working with a Palestinian-led movement committed to resisting the long-entrenched and systematic oppression and dispossession of the Palestinian population using non-violent, direct-action methods and principles. This community share back will focus on first hand, on the ground experiences of daily colonial encroachment, harassment, and land theft by settlers and occupation forces in the South Hebron Hills of the West Bank, as well as ongoing Indigenous Palestinian existence and resistance. Hosted by the Minara Muslim Community at First Unitarian Social Hall 3701 Carlisle NE in Albuquerque on May 28th at 6pm. You are also welcome to join online at bit.ly/WBshare.
Or: Join on June 6th for a Santa Fe/Oga'Pogeh Shareback at 6pm at Travel Bug, 839 Paseo de Peralta. Sponsored by Southwest Coalition for Palestine, Abq Anti-War Coalition, ABQ SURJ, NNM SURJ, Jewish Voices for Peace Albuquerque, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine, Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, and NM Jews for a Free Palestine. ~ iusti remer-thamert

Barbara Maxwell’s Memorial Service is this coming Saturday 1 June at 2pm. Barbara’s memorial service here at St. Paul will be followed by a reception in Fellowship Hall. Her obituary is found at: https://www.frenchfunerals.com/obituaries/barbara-maxwell

Our Margo is Turning 101 in June and we are collecting birthday cards! Pick up an information sheet in the Welcome Center for her party hosted by daughter Cyndy and leave your card off in the office for delivery. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Our Pride Parade involvement on 8 June is a go! We will be walking the Parade route this year! It's approx. a 2-mile walk, so if you're interested in joining us, please be in touch with me. Details on carpooling, lineup, etc. to come in next Sunday’s bulletin. We'll be carrying our St. Paul banner and very large Pride flag, etc., and we'll be tossing a St. Paul card with a Jolly Rancher attached to all of the onlookers. We believe that this is a really valuable and positive way to reach a lot of people! If you don't particularly want to be involved, we would sure appreciate any help in paying for the supplies we need to make our presence known! (We will plan ahead for next year and request that there be funds in the Outreach budget.)Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Adopted Families: A caseworker at Healthcare for the Homeless emailed me about another client who needed a bus ticket. The client is 45 years old and has been on the streets on and off for about five years. He has a chance to reunite with his family who live in a different part of the country. The client happened to be in the office with the caseworker when I called the caseworker, so I was able to complete the transaction for the online ticket purchase ($118) right away. The client was very grateful, thanking me twice and saying "God bless" just before hanging up. The caseworker explained to me some time ago that it's not easy to find transportation help like this, so it's a good feeling to be able to play a crucial role a client's effort to help himself. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Adopted Families Project Coordinator

Fall Semester 2024 St. Paul Scholarship Applications Now Being Accepted. Because of the caring generosity of St. Paul members and friends, two endowed scholarships are available for active members of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM, who are or will be students in post-secondary education in the 2024-2025 school year.
          The St. Paul Endowed Scholarship fund is comprised of contributions made by families in honor and/or memory of loved ones. Scholarships from this fund are available to qualified students of any age pursuing college degrees in any field at the associate, undergraduate or advanced levels.  Scholarship funds have been combined to create this endowed fund: the Dr. Paul Mutschman Scholarship fund, with a view of encouraging those pursuing education in a scientific field, funds provided by the Voida family, and the Maynard Meuli and Janie Meuli Moseley Memorial Scholarship.
          The Harold and Jane Olson Family Scholarship fund was created by their daughter to honor her parents. Harold and Jane were faithful church and community leaders for many years. The scholarship is available to a member of St. Paul attending a Lutheran or Baptist college or seminary.
          In addition to meeting the specific criteria attached to the above scholarships, applications will be evaluated on the applicant’s statement of faith, financial need, and academic record; community service and church involvement will also be considered. [Please note that members of St. Paul who are also paid employees of this congregation are not eligible for any scholarships.]
          Note: Application forms may be downloaded from the St. Paul website. Go to www.stpaulabq.org and select the link to the application.
          Deadline for returning applications and all supporting documents is 4 p.m. Monday, July 15, 2024 – no exceptions. Applications must be returned to St. Paul church office by mail (St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1100 Indian School Rd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102) or may be sent to info@stpaulabq.org in PDF format by the same July 15, 2024 deadline.
Applicants will be notified of the Scholarship Committee’s decision by the end of July, 2024. Funds will be awarded to the students upon proof of enrollment for the upcoming semester/term.
For further information, please contact a member of the St. Paul Scholarship Committee: Omar Durant, Paula Eglinton.

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Coffee with a Cop: May 28, 9-10am, the Albuquerque Police Department invites you to join us for coffee and conversation, hosted by McDonald’s, 2200 Central Ave SE. ~ Laura Kuehn, Crime Prevention/Crime Free Programs

Help ABQ FaithWorks Reach Their Goal! ABQ FaithWorks invites you to join with them to honor the Asylum Seekers they serve by taking part in their campaign for World Refugee Day. Simply give online, or create your own fundraising page to widen the circle of support between now and June 20th. The more donors sign on with small gifts, the stronger our collaborative community becomes. ABQ FaithWorks has the ambitious goal of 100 new donors, and $10,000, by June 20th. The best news is, $3,000 will be matched by their generous Board of Directors! Give or start fundraising at https://bit.ly/4dBDtU5  The link will also be found on their website at www.abqfaithworks.org ~ Dora Gallegos

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Lutheran Summer Music announces its 42nd season, offering over 30 free and open-to-the-public concerts and recitals. All events take place this July at Valparaiso University, and most will be livestreamed. Performances and services are shared by over 250 students, faculty, fellows, worship staff, and guest artists who come together to create a vibrant community of music-makers. The LSM 2024 season will culminate during Festival Week (July 21-28), featuring the LSM Festival Band, Choir, and Orchestra, a Festival of Hymns, and closing each day with sung Evening Prayer. Of special note, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) will join the LSM community and offer an intergenerational performance of J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion. Visit LSMacademy.org/2024 for a full list of events and to access the livestream.

Resources for the Crisis in the Holy Land. In response to the Hamas attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel's declaration of war against Hamas, including the ongoing siege of Gaza, the ELCA offers statements from some of our Lutheran and global partners in the region. Included are ELCA resources for a deeper understanding of the context, the humanitarian crises of the current war, and the ELCA's work for a just peace in Palestine and Israel. Visit: https://elca.org/crisis-holy-land

After the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in March, there were 11 ships stuck in the Port of Baltimore. Unable to leave their ships for over a month, the crews relied on local organizations to bring food, fresh water and other necessities. Because this disaster happened just miles from our headquarters, Lutheran World Relief provided handmade quilts and Personal Care Kits to the stranded seafarers. After all, these hardworking neighbors make our worldwide distribution of LWR Quilts & Kits possible! Watch the video to visit a ship and learn more about this unique response at https://lwr.org/

Updates Beginning 19 May 2024

Today: Bread for the World Sunday. We are presenting our letters today during worship. It’s not too late if you still want to participate—samples are available in the Welcome Center. St. Paul has been a member of Bread for the World for over 40 years! ~Buzz Lenander

Today: Join the Adult Faith Development class this Sunday as we learn more about happenings at the recent Rocky Mountain Synod assembly. St. Paul was well represented at the assembly even though it was held in northern Colorado. St. Paul attendees will share their impressions and insights, and there will be plenty of opportunities to ask your questions. This assembly was a momentous one for the synod with the election of a new bishop joining the usual synod business on the agenda. Come and learn what's new and what we can expect in the future. 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room. All are welcome. ~Bob Matthews

May’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: Senior Supplies for Adopted Families. This month we are collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. We will compile the kits after worship on May 26. There is a box in the Welcome Center to collect these items, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Our Pride Parade involvement on 8 June is a go! We will be walking the Parade route this year! It's approx. a 2-mile walk, so if you're interested in joining us, please be in touch with me. If you don't particularly want to be involved, we would sure appreciate any help in paying for the supplies we need to make our presence known!  (We will plan ahead for next year and request that there be funds in the Outreach budget.) We'll be carrying our St. Paul banner and very large Pride flag, etc., and we'll be tossing a St. Paul card with a Jolly Rancher attached to all of the onlookers. We believe that this is a really valuable and positive way to reach a lot of people! Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Barbara Maxwell’s Memorial Service is Saturday 1 June at 2pm. Barbara’s memorial service here at St. Paul will be followed by a reception in Fellowship Hall. Her obituary is found at: https://www.frenchfunerals.com/obituaries/barbara-maxwell

Fall Semester 2024 St. Paul Scholarship Applications Now Being Accepted.
Because of the caring generosity of St. Paul members and friends, two endowed scholarships are available for active members of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM, who are or will be students in post-secondary education in the 2024-2025 school year.
          The St. Paul Endowed Scholarship fund is comprised of contributions made by families in honor and/or memory of loved ones. Scholarships from this fund are available to qualified students of any age pursuing college degrees in any field at the associate, undergraduate or advanced levels.  Scholarship funds have been combined to create this endowed fund: the Dr. Paul Mutschman Scholarship fund, with a view of encouraging those pursuing education in a scientific field, funds provided by the Voida family, and the Maynard Meuli and Janie Meuli Moseley Memorial Scholarship.
          The Harold and Jane Olson Family Scholarship fund was created by their daughter to honor her parents. Harold and Jane were faithful church and community leaders for many years. The scholarship is available to a member of St. Paul attending a Lutheran or Baptist college or seminary.
          In addition to meeting the specific criteria attached to the above scholarships, applications will be evaluated on the applicant’s statement of faith, financial need, and academic record; community service and church involvement will also be considered. [Please note that members of St. Paul who are also paid employees of this congregation are not eligible for any scholarships.]
          Note: Application forms may be downloaded from the St. Paul website. Go to www.stpaulabq.org and select the link to the application.
          Deadline for returning applications and all supporting documents is 4 p.m. Monday, July 15, 2024 – no exceptions. Applications must be returned to St. Paul church office by mail (St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1100 Indian School Rd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102) or may be sent to info@stpaulabq.org in PDF format by the same July 15, 2024 deadline.
Applicants will be notified of the Scholarship Committee’s decision by the end of July, 2024. Funds will be awarded to the students upon proof of enrollment for the upcoming semester/term.
For further information, please contact a member of the St. Paul Scholarship Committee: Omar Durant, Paula Eglinton. 

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

As of May 13, we have helped 100 household people stay in their homes through rental and utility assistance. Our volunteers are instrumental in answering calls, fielding questions and referrals, and helping our staff coordinate financial help. If you’d like to volunteer and make a difference by answering phones at our front desk, please contact us at 505-457-1728.  In Asylum news, we are seeking family liaison volunteers to help newcomers feel welcome in Albuquerque. We have also started to help asylum seekers attend their court hearings remotely at our offices, so that they don’t have to make the expensive trip to El Paso. Stay tuned to learn more about our upcoming fundraising campaign for World Refugee Day in June! You can always learn more about all of our activities on our blog at www.abqfaithworks.org ~ Dora Gallegos

Refugee Services in Albuquerque. To learn about the programs and services in the Albuquerque area, visit: https://www.lfsrm.org/Refugee-Asylee-Albuquerque

ABQ Asylum Seekers Welcome.  We received a bus on May 9th and will be receiving buses every other week now. If you are interested in joining the welcoming group, there is some training involved. Please contact me at revdm1950@gmail.com. ~Rae VanDeMotter

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Read about the 2024 RMS Assembly. Information on resolutions, actions, voting results, and photos are found at:
https://www.rmselca.org/synod-assembly-2024-our-way-together

Resources for the Crisis in the Holy Land. In response to the Hamas attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel's declaration of war against Hamas, including the ongoing siege of Gaza, the ELCA offers statements from some of our Lutheran and global partners in the region. Included are ELCA resources for a deeper understanding of the context, the humanitarian crises of the current war, and the ELCA's work for a just peace in Palestine and Israel. Visit: https://elca.org/crisis-holy-land

A group of compassionate donors who care deeply about God's suffering children has come together to offer a Love Thy Neighbor Matching Gift Challenge! Any gift you can offer today will be matched — dollar for dollar up to $130,000. https://lwr.org/

We've been welcoming newcomers for 85 years...and we're not stopping now. As many of our supporters know, this year marks 85 years of Global Refuge (formerly LIRS)! We’re proud of our rich history of making a meaningful impact in the lives of newcomers as they seek safety, support, and a share of the American dream. info@globalrefuge.org

Updates Beginning 12 May 2024

Today: The Adult Faith Development class has the periodic treat of hearing from our own Jim Sattler about the City of Albuquerque Open Space program. He will talk about what is new in the program and how we can be involved. As we Christians consider our responsibilities to care for the Earth, having Jim share his passion for open space is a real privilege. We'll see you after the service at 11:15 in the Conference Room. ~Bob Matthews

May’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: Senior Supplies for Adopted Families. This month we are collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. We will compile the kits after worship on May 26. There is a box in the Welcome Center to collect these items, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Our Pride Parade involvement on 8 June is a go! We will be walking the Parade route this year! It's approx. a 2-mile walk, so if you're interested in joining us, please be in touch with me. If you don't particularly want to be involved, we would sure appreciate any help in paying for the supplies we need to make our presence known!  (We will plan ahead for next year and request that there be funds in the Outreach budget.) We'll be carrying our St. Paul banner and very large Pride flag, etc., and we'll be tossing a St. Paul card with a Jolly Rancher attached to all of the onlookers. We believe that this is a really valuable and positive way to reach a lot of people! Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Next Sunday, May 19, is St. Paul’s Bread For The World Sunday! This is an invitation to participate in the Offering of Letters--join with thousands of others in urging Congress to pass a family-friendly farm bill. The impact of the farm bill is significant. It not only affects the agriculture and food sectors - it can play a huge role in reducing food insecurity and hunger in the U.S. and abroad. Congress is still working to renew farm bill programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and international food aid programs. Among the measures that should be included are strengthening nutrition security in domestic and international programs, creating a more equitable SNAP program, and increasing food systems sustainability.
See the sample letter and tips below and bring your letters next week! Thank you. ~Buzz Lenander

A Thank You to St. Paul:
On behalf of the Storehouse family, thank you St. Paul Community for your gift of $950! We are grateful for your support and your help in getting food to families in need. ~Amy Lavender, VP of Developmen 

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Happy Spring from Tres Hermanas Farm, a program of Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains! We are entering our 8th season as a farm program in Albuquerque supporting New American families, and we are excited to grow together again this year.
          This season there are 10 farmers enrolled in our farmer training program, and 15 (& growing) gardeners in our gardener training program--gardening at partner community gardens and home gardens throughout ABQ. Stay tuned for farm to table events facilitated by our farmers & other farm events planned for this season!
          To join our volunteer listserv or explore other ways to support our program, please email us at treshermanasfarm@lfsrm.org. 

ABQ Asylum Seekers Welcome.  We received a bus on May 9th and will be receiving buses every other week now. If you are interested in joining the welcoming group, there is some training involved. Please contact me at revdm1950@gmail.com. ~Rae VanDeMotter

Greetings from ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative! In March, we welcomed our new Executive Director, Hannah Albee.  She looks forward to visiting all the collaborating congregations and getting to know us. You can learn more about Hannah on our website at www.abqfaithworks.org. We are looking for volunteers to be family liaisons for the newcomer program, which helps asylum seekers navigate their journey in Albuquerque. There are other volunteer opportunities as well.  Please contact us at 505-457-1728 to learn more. ~Dora Gallegos

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Meghan Johnston Aelabouni Elected Bishop of Rocky Mountain Synod. The Rev. Johnston Aelabouni was elected April 27 to serve a six-year term as bishop of the RMS. The election took place during the synod assembly in Loveland, CO.
Johnston Aelabouni was elected on the fifth ballot, with 232 votes. The Rev. Barbara Berry-Bailey, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Denver, and special assistant to the synod bishop for diversity, equity and inclusion, received 148 votes.
The bishop-elect has served as pastor of Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Jerusalem and as theologian in residence with the ELCA Middle East and North Africa Desk since 2021. Previously she has served as country coordinator for Jerusalem and the West Bank with ELCA Young Adults in Global Mission (2019-2021); co-pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Fort Collins, CO (2010-2016); and associate pastor of Christus Victor Lutheran Church, Elk Grove Village, IL (2007-2010).
Johnston Aelabouni earned her Bachelor of Arts in religion and English from California Lutheran University (CLU), Thousand Oaks, CA, in 2001, and a Master of Divinity from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) in 2006. CLU is one of 26 ELCA colleges and universities; LSTC is one of seven ELCA seminaries. In 2021 she earned a doctorate in religion from the Iliff School of Theology and the University of Denver.
Johnston Aelabouni will take office Aug. 1. She will be installed Oct. 5 at Augustana Lutheran Church in Denver. The Rev. James W. Gonia is retiring after serving as bishop since 2012. His last day will be July 31.

A group of compassionate donors who care deeply about God's suffering children has come together to offer a Love Thy Neighbor Matching Gift Challenge! Any gift you can offer today will be matched — dollar for dollar up to $130,000. https://lwr.org/

We've been welcoming newcomers for 85 years...and we're not stopping now. As many of our supporters know, this year marks 85 years of Global Refuge (formerly LIRS)! We’re proud of our rich history of making a meaningful impact in the lives of newcomers as they seek safety, support, and a share of the American dream. info@globalrefuge.org

Updates Beginning 5 May 2024

Today: St. Paul 101 continues in Fellowship Hall at 11:15. Please pick up your snacks and join us there! ~Pr. Koppel

Today: Calico Preschool Announces Earth Day Family Recycling Contest-please vote! Made out of recycled or reusable items from around the home, families can be as creative as they'd like and surprise us with their projects!  The projects are on display in the Welcome Center, and St. Paul members can vote for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice. ~Marisol Flores, Director

Today: Albuquerque Pride Parade Planning. We will be meeting after worship in the Sanctuary to discuss the many details for 8 June. St. Paul is registered for the Pride Parade, so save the date! If you would like to participate in any way, be it marching, riding, or helping to decorate our float, please be in touch with me. ~Jan Bowers

Today: Last Chance to Purchase Madagascar Merch! Rijasoa has brought some wonderful items to sell in support of this year’s Girls Camp. Get your Mother’s Day gifts or do your Christmas shopping early! ~Deborah Ash

First Tuesday is This Week!  May 7th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm we'll meet at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE.  There is beer to purchase but if that is not your preference, bring your own beverage.  They have chips to buy, but most folks bring a snack to share.  This is just a time to visit and catch up on news.  Come join us! For those who are still working at this time, we urge you to find a time and place that will work for you and your families.  Church friends are often friends we keep for life, no matter where in the world we end up going. ~Nancy Matthews

May’s God’s Work Our Hands Project: Senior Supplies for Adopted Families. This month we are collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. We will compile the kits after worship on May 26. There is a box in the Welcome Center to collect these items, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins 

St. Paul’s Bread For The World Sunday is May 19! This is an invitation to participate in the Offering of Letters--join with thousands of others in urging Congress to pass a family-friendly farm bill. The impact of the farm bill is significant. It not only affects the agriculture and food sectors - it can play a huge role in reducing food insecurity and hunger in the U.S. and abroad. Congress is still working to renew farm bill programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and international food aid programs. Among the measures that should be included are strengthening nutrition security in domestic and international programs, creating a more equitable SNAP program, and increasing food systems sustainability.
See the sample letter and tips below and bring your letters May 19! Thank you. ~Buzz Lenander

Attention Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants: The current schedules for assisting ministers and communion assistants end at the end of May. Shortly (after I return from Synod Assembly), I will be making the new schedules. This schedule will cover June through November-- up to Advent. This is your chance to tell me of any dates you know you will not be able to serve. Of course, as always, if you find that a date does not work for you, please find a replacement or trade with someone. The roster of servers is always included on the schedule I send out, plus it is posted in the sacristy. Please do not call me, Deb or Kristi to find you a replacement unless it is a last minute emergency.
            Everyone: Have you ever considered becoming more involved with the worship service? We are always in need of more communion assistants and assisting ministers. Over the last months, we have lost people in these positions. Please consider serving in this way. Those of us who do this find it very meaningful. Personalized training available!  Please see me to find out more information or sign up! ~Peace, Terry Cole, tecole51@comcast.net

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

ABQ Asylum Seekers Welcome-Heads Up!!  We will be receiving a bus on May 9th. We will be receiving buses every other week. If you are interested in joining the group, there is some training involved. Please contact me at revdm1950@gmail.com. ~Rae VanDeMotter

Greetings from ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative! In March, we welcomed our new Executive Director, Hannah Albee.  She looks forward to visiting all the collaborating congregations and getting to know us. You can learn more about Hannah on our website at www.abqfaithworks.org. We are looking for volunteers to be family liaisons for the newcomer program, which helps asylum seekers navigate their journey in Albuquerque. There are other volunteer opportunities as well.  Please contact us at 505-457-1728 to learn more. ~Dora Gallegos

Updates Beginning 28 April 2024

Today: St. Paul 101 continues in Fellowship Hall at 11:15. Please pick up your snacks and join us there! ~Pr. Koppel

Attention Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants: The current schedules for assisting ministers and communion assistants end at the end of May. Shortly (after I return from Synod Assembly), I will be making the new schedules. This schedule will cover June through November-- up to Advent.

This is your chance to tell me of any dates you know you will not be able to serve. Of course, as always, if you find that a date does not work for you, please find a replacement or trade with someone. The roster of servers is always included on the schedule I send out, plus it is posted in the sacristy. Please do not call me, Deb or Kristi to find you a replacement unless it is a last minute emergency.
            Everyone: Have you ever considered becoming more involved with the worship service? We are always in need of more communion assistants and assisting ministers. Over the last months, we have lost people in these positions. Please consider serving in this way. Those of us who do this find it very meaningful. Personalized training available!  Please see me to find out more information or sign up! ~Peace, Terry Cole, tecole51@comcast.net

Albuquerque Pride Parade-Save the Date! 8 June. St. Paul is registered for the Pride Parade! If you would like to participate in any way, be it marching, riding, or helping to decorate our float, please be in touch with me. Any help would be greatly appreciated! We will be meeting 5 May after worship to discuss the many details. Please attend! ~Jan Bowers

First Tuesday is coming soon!  May 7th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm we'll meet at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE.  There is beer to purchase but if that is not your preference, bring your own beverage.  They have chips to buy, but most folks bring a snack to share.  This is just a time to visit and catch up on news.  Come join us! For those who are still working at this time, we urge you to find a time and place that will work for you and your families.  Church friends are often friends we keep for life, no matter where in the world we end up going. ~Nancy Matthews
Calico Preschool Announces Earth Day Family Recycling Contest. Made out of recycled or reusable items from around the home, families can be as creative as they'd like and surprise us with their projects!  On May 5, the projects will be on display in the Welcome Center, and St. Paul members can vote for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice. ~Marisol Flores-Gutierrez, Director

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel 

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will be celebrating May Friendship Day on Friday, May 3rd at Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church, 1004 24th St. SE.  The morning will begin at 9:30 a.m. with brunch.  The program will begin at 10:00 and focus on Health and Wellness.  State Representative Natalie Figueroa will speak on health issues in New Mexico.  Hygiene items will be collected for Haven House, a domestic violence shelter in Rio Rancho.  For those wishing to carpool, be at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church parking lot at 5301 Ponderosa Ave NE by 8:30 a.m.  Come join us and bring a friend!  Questions?  Contact Marilyn Stoops at mstoops@swcp.com or call at 505-265-8358.

Lutherhaven Lodge at Fenton Lake Spring Event.  May 4, 9am-2pm.
What are we doing? Seasonal start up at the Lodge.
What is involved? Various activities including cleaning inside, external ground clearing, initial seasonal startup duties, general maintenance, and anything else needing attention.
How can you help? Consider coming up to help with any needed activities and or to learn about becoming a member and how to reserve/utilize the lodge. (Please RSVP via contact options below.) Lunch provided!
Are there other ways to help? Absolutely! We accept monetary donations, and please pray for us! 280 Lake Fork Road, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
(505) 275-2436, lutherhavennm@gmail.com, www.nmlutherhaven.com

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Civic Life and Faith: The ELCA is developing a social statement on civic life and faith, the relationship of church and state, and related matters, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. At this time the task force encourages you to study and give feedback on a draft version of the social statement. You can participate by filling out a survey, or by participating in a hearing in your synod, if available. Hearings are public gatherings where participants share their specific affirmations or concerns about a draft statement. The feedback period will be open until Sept. 30, 2024. Visit https://elca.org/civicsandfaith to download the draft statement.

Bread for the World. On May 2 at 8pm ET, the Interfaith Campaign for Food and Nutrition Security invites you to unite in spirit and action with members of the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths, along with all other faith communities. During this National Day of Prayer, we will collectively commit to eradicating food and nutrition insecurity throughout the United States.
          The virtual event will feature religious leaders, anti-hunger activists, and public health advocates from around the country who will discuss these critical issues as we pray for an end to hunger and nutrition insecurity. Mobilizing communities of faith is critical to the success of these efforts. https://www.bread.org/

Episcopal, Lutheran partnership focuses on asylum-seeker sponsor training. Building on a shared vision for gospel-centered hospitality and inclusion, Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) and AMMPARO, the migrant ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), have entered into a partnership to better train and support asylum-seeker sponsors.
          Accompanying Migrants with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities (AMMPARO) is the ELCA's strategic commitment to accompany migrants. In this new collaboration AMMPARO will use the Neighbor to Neighbor program designed by EMM to provide training for community sponsors.  
          The two groups will coordinate efforts as they work with sponsors who welcome new neighbors by offering friendship and fostering community connections. The work will focus on providing practical support such as housing, accessing services, enrolling children in school and supporting adults as they learn English and secure employment. Read more at: https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8220

Updates Beginning 21 April 2024

Today after Service: Spring Congregational Meeting & Ice Cream Social. Please join us in Fellowship Hall immediately following worship for this year’s Spring meeting. ~Pr. Koppel

Thank You St. Paul, for making yesterday’s fundraising luncheon a success! We appreciate all your support for this year’s Madagascar Girls Camp! ~Rijasoa Andriamanana

Thank You to everyone who baked, set up, and served for Betty Jo Allen’s memorial service on Friday! Betty Jo was the mother of Debbie Bolling, a long-time St. Paul member with her husband and daughter. ~Deborah Ash

First Tuesday is coming soon!  May 7th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm we'll meet at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE.  There is beer to purchase but if that is not your preference, bring your own beverage.  They have chips to buy, but most folks bring a snack to share.  This is just a time to visit and catch up on news.  Come join us! For those who are still working at this time, we urge you to find a time and place that will work for you and your families.  Church friends are often friends we keep for life, no matter where in the world we end up going. ~Nancy Matthews

Calico Preschool Announces Earth Day Family Recycling Contest. Made out of recycled or reusable items from around the home, families can be as creative as they'd like and surprise us with their projects!  On May 5, the projects will be on display in the Welcome Center, and St. Paul members can vote for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice. ~Marisol Flores-Gutierrez, Director

Albuquerque Pride Parade-Save the Date! 8 June. St. Paul is registered for the Pride Parade! If you would like to participate in any way, be it marching, riding, or helping to decorate our float, please be in touch with me. Any help would be greatly appreciated! We will be meeting 5 May after worship to discuss the many details. Please attend! ~Jan Bowers

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will be celebrating May Friendship Day on Friday, May 3rd at Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church, 1004 24th St. SE.  The morning will begin at 9:30 a.m. with brunch.  The program will begin at 10:00 and focus on Health and Wellness.  State Representative Natalie Figueroa will speak on health issues in New Mexico.  Hygiene items will be collected for Haven House, a domestic violence shelter in Rio Rancho.  For those wishing to carpool, be at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church parking lot at 5301 Ponderosa Ave NE by 8:30 a.m.  Come join us and bring a friend!  Questions?  Contact Marilyn Stoops at mstoops@swcp.com or call at 505-265-8358.

Lutherhaven Lodge at Fenton Lake Spring Event.  May 4, 9am-2pm.
What are we doing? Seasonal start up at the Lodge.
What is involved? Various activities including cleaning inside, external ground clearing, initial seasonal startup duties, general maintenance, and anything else needing attention.
How can you help? Consider coming up to help with any needed activities and or to learn about becoming a member and how to reserve/utilize the lodge. (Please RSVP via contact options below.) Lunch provided!
Are there other ways to help? Absolutely! We accept monetary donations, and please pray for us!
280 Lake Fork Road, Jemez Springs, NM 87025
(505) 275-2436, lutherhavennm@gmail.com, www.nmlutherhaven.com
[More information is available in the Welcome Center.]

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Civic Life and Faith: The ELCA is developing a social statement on civic life and faith, the relationship of church and state, and related matters, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. At this time the task force encourages you to study and give feedback on a draft version of the social statement. You can participate by filling out a survey, or by participating in a hearing in your synod, if available. Hearings are public gatherings where participants share their specific affirmations or concerns about a draft statement. The feedback period will be open until Sept. 30, 2024. Visit https://elca.org/civicsandfaith to download the draft statement.

Bread for the World. On May 2 at 8pm ET, the Interfaith Campaign for Food and Nutrition Security invites you to unite in spirit and action with members of the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths, along with all other faith communities. During this National Day of Prayer, we will collectively commit to eradicating food and nutrition insecurity throughout the United States.
          The virtual event will feature religious leaders, anti-hunger activists, and public health advocates from around the country who will discuss these critical issues as we pray for an end to hunger and nutrition insecurity. Mobilizing communities of faith is critical to the success of these efforts. https://www.bread.org/

Updates Beginning 14 April 2024

Starting Today: St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you! The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 14 & 28 April (skipping 21 April for our Spring Congregational Meeting - also a great way to get to know who we are and what we do!), and 5 May.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship each of those Sundays for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Today, April 14: St. Paul is hosting the monthly Love God Love Neighbor ABQ Youth Collaborative, the last of the school year, with FaithWorks presenting an experiential program on poverty for attendees. Thank you to everyone who donated disinfecting wipes for FaithWorks! ~Pr. Koppel

Next Saturday,  20 April at Noon: 2024 Madagascar Girls Camp Fundraiser Luncheon. Join us for Malagasy food, music, and games in Fellowship Hall! Come and learn about St. Paul's impact in Madagascar Education through the Girls' stories and aspirations from the 2023 Girls Camp. A portion of the cost is already provided by St. Paul from the 2023 Benevolence Disbursement Fund, and the remainder still needs to be raised. Your attendance and support is really appreciated! (An RSVP would be helpful, but not required, to: rijakik@yahoo.fr) ~Rijasoa Andriamanana
Note: This month’s God’s Work Our Hands support is toward this project. Hope you can attend! If you wish to make a gift, please place it in the offering, made out to St. Paul and note it is for the Girls Camp. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash
Background: The Girls Camp is an opportunity for 24 elementary school girls  and 6 teachers from rural remote areas of Madagascar to come to the Capital City of Antananarivo and learn about possibilities for the future (most of them have never left their villages and have limited knowledge about what women can do for professions). All expenses are covered, as the girls and their teachers come from high poverty communities with no clean water, electric power, or adequate food.

Thank You! We appreciate everyone who came out yesterday for the Outdoor Campus Cleanup. We are spruced up for Spring! ~Deborah Ash

Mark Your Calendars for Next Sunday, 21 April, 11am: Spring Congregational Meeting & Ice Cream Social. Please join us in Fellowship Hall immediately following worship for this year’s Spring meeting. ~Pr. Koppel

Albuquerque Pride Parade-Save the Date! 8 June. St. Paul is registered for the Pride Parade! If you would like to participate in any way, be it marching, riding, or helping to decorate our float, please be in touch with me. Any help would be greatly appreciated! We will be meeting 5 May after worship to discuss the many details. Please attend! ~Jan Bowers

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Today, 14 April at St. Paul: ABQ Chamber Soloists in Concert at 2pm. Pre-concert talk starting at 1:15 in Fellowship Hall.

Program: Benjamin Britten: Phantasy Quartet for Oboe and Strings, Trevor Weston: Verve Music (NM premiere), Dvořák: Piano Trio in E minor, "Dumky".

Kevin Vigneau, oboe: Judith Gordon, piano; Jesse Tatum, flute; Megan Holland, violin; Kimberly Fredenburgh, viola; James Holland, cello

Tickets at: https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/albuquerque-chamber-soloists/april1424

Today, 14 April, 1-4pm at Luther House: Campus Ministry Sunday Open House. We will highlight the work of our campus ministry and provide information and opportunities to support the ministry. Luther House is the home base for Lutheran Campus Ministries of UNM and CNM. It provides:

·        Welcome for all
·        Faith exploration
·        Service to the greater world and community
·        Spiritual growth
·        Justice engagement
·        Community together

Visit and learn more at the open house, 1805 Lomas Rd NE, 87106.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

The Bishop Election Process: The focus of the 2024 Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly will be the election of a new bishop. The discernment process for the next bishop began in fall 2023 at Conference Gatherings and the RMS Theological Conference. The process will conclude at Assembly April 25-27, 2024 with the final ballot for the election of a bishop. Discerning who will be called to be the next Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod is something that should be undertaken with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Expectations for a Bishop, both in their gifts and in their character, are many. The hub for all information and documents surrounding the discernment and election of a new bishop is this website: https://www.rmselca.org/2024-bishop-election-process

Civic Life and Faith: The ELCA is developing a social statement on civic life and faith, the relationship of church and state, and related matters, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. At this time the task force encourages you to study and give feedback on a draft version of the social statement. You can participate by filling out a survey, or by participating in a hearing in your synod, if available. Hearings are public gatherings where participants share their specific affirmations or concerns about a draft statement. The feedback period will be open until Sept. 30, 2024. Visit https://elca.org/civicsandfaith to download the draft statement.

From RMS AMMPARO: The Spring 2024 ELCA Service and Justice Update is now available! You will find a copy posted in the Welcome Center. More on AMMPARO at: https://www.elca.org/Our-Work/Publicly-Engaged-Church/AMMPARO

Updates Beginning 7 April 2024

 Today at Adult Faith Development: Plan on joining us for a presentation by a representative of the Labyrinth Society about labyrinths, where they come from, and how to use them. It should be an outstanding occasion. Meet us after church at 11:15 in the Conference Room. Everyone is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

This Wednesday, 10 April at 1pm: Ice Cream Social Hour at Dairy Queen, 4104 Louisiana Blvd NE, 87109. We meet for an hour-join us! ~Herb Korff

This coming Saturday, April 13, 9am-Noon: Outdoor Campus Cleanup. There is a signup sheet in the Welcome Center. Dana Mullen will be coordinating assignments that day. Bring your work gloves and be ready for a busy and fun time outdoors! Please let us know if you are coming so we have a head count for pizza. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Next Sunday, April 14: St. Paul is hosting the monthly Love God Love Neighbor ABQ Youth Collaborative, the last of the school year, with FaithWorks presenting an experiential program for attendees. If you would like to support our youth in collecting disinfecting wipes for FaithWorks, there is a box in the Welcome Center. Thanks! ~Pr. Koppel

Starting Next Sunday: Save the dates for the next St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you! The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 14 & 28 April (skipping 21 April for our Spring Congregational Meeting - also a great way to get to know who we are and what we do!), and 5 May.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship each of those Sundays for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

2024 Madagascar Girls Camp: Dear St. Paul family, the 2023 Madagascar Girls Camp was a huge success thanks to the generous support of the St. Paul community! In July 2024, we are doing it again. The Girls Camp is an opportunity for elementary school girls from rural remote areas of Madagascar to come to the Capital City of Antananarivo and learn about possibilities for the future (most of them have never left their villages and have limited knowledge about what women can do for professions). For five days, led by Rijasoa, 24 Girls and 6 female teachers will visit universities, listen to Church and Community leaders’ talks, and participate in Camp activities such as Bible stories, arts and crafts, songs and dances, and English language learning. All the expenses, including warm clothing, transportation, food, accommodation, and camp materials will be covered, as the girls and their teachers come from high poverty communities with no clean water, electric power, or adequate food. A portion of the cost is already provided by St. Paul from the 2023 Benevolence Disbursement Fund, and the remainder still needs to be raised.

A fundraiser luncheon featuring Malagasy food, music, and games is scheduled on Saturday April 20th at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. Come and learn about St. Paul's impact in Madagascar Education through the Girls' stories and aspirations from the 2023 Girls Camp. Your attendance and support is really appreciated! ~Rijasoa Andriamanana

[Note: April’s God’s Work Our Hands support is toward this project. Hope you can attend! ~Deborah Ash]

Mark Your Calendars for Sunday, 21 April, 11am: Spring Congregational Meeting & Ice Cream Social. Please join us in Fellowship Hall immediately following worship for this year’s Spring meeting. ~Pr. Koppel

Stephen Ministers continue to work at becoming better care givers by doing continuing education.  We have studied several books these last couple of years and thought we would offer them to the congregation.  We have a lending library in the foyer.  If you see a book that sparks your interest, just sign it out on the notebook.  There is no time limit for returning.  We ask you to write your name, the book title, and the date you are borrowing it. If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, contact Pastor Koppel, Terry Cole or Nancy Jenkins. ~Stephen Ministry

Albuquerque Pride Parade-Save the Date! 8 June. St. Paul is registered for the Pride Parade! If you would like to participate in any way, be it marching, riding, or helping to decorate our float, please be in touch with me. ~Jan Bowers

Adopted Families: We learned of another client at Healthcare for the Homeless who needed a bus ticket to a place where he has a support system (including his daughter). I couldn't understand everything the client told me but he said there had been a giant information breach that led to his taking improper medication which introduced all sorts of health issues. He is finally getting things corrected and just needs to get to a place that gives him more stability. He and his client advocator at Healthcare for the Homeless were very grateful when we bought the $125 ticket. Thank you for supporting our efforts to help those who are trying to help themselves. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

The Bishop Election Process: The focus of the 2024 Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly will be the election of a new bishop. The discernment process for the next bishop began in fall 2023 at Conference Gatherings and the RMS Theological Conference. The process will conclude at Assembly April 25-27, 2024 with the final ballot for the election of a bishop. Discerning who will be called to be the next Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod is something that should be undertaken with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Expectations for a Bishop, both in their gifts and in their character, are many. The hub for all information and documents surrounding the discernment and election of a new bishop is this website: https://www.rmselca.org/2024-bishop-election-process

Civic Life and Faith: The ELCA is developing a social statement on civic life and faith, the relationship of church and state, and related matters, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. At this time the task force encourages you to study and give feedback on a draft version of the social statement. You can participate by filling out a survey, or by participating in a hearing in your synod, if available. Hearings are public gatherings where participants share their specific affirmations or concerns about a draft statement. The feedback period will be open until Sept. 30, 2024. Visit https://elca.org/civicsandfaith to download the draft statement.

Watch Bishop Eaton’s 2024 Easter message. In her Easter message to the church, Bishop Eaton focuses on three words that describe what the women at the tomb experienced when the angel announced that Jesus had been raised from the dead: fear, amazement and feeling seized by: the Spirit. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PcfM141gIQ

Updates Beginning 31 March 2024

This Week: First Tuesday on April 2nd will be the usual gathering to visit and share snacks and drinks at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE, 4:00 - 6:00pm.  We should have all the dishes washed up by then so we can share our Easter stories and snacks. ~Nancy Matthews

Next Sunday: There is no Adult Faith Development class today. It's Easter, for heaven's sake, and the celebration won't wait for the adult class. Next week (April 7), however, plan on joining us for a presentation by a representative of the Labyrinth Society about labyrinths, where they come from, and how to use them. It should be an outstanding occasion. Meet us after church at 11:15 in the Conference Room. Everyone is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

On Sunday, April 14: St. Paul is hosting the monthly Love God Love Neighbor ABQ Youth Collaborative, the last of the school year, with FaithWorks presenting an experiential program for attendees. If you would like to support our youth in collecting disinfecting wipes for FaithWorks, there is a box in the Welcome Center. Thanks! ~Pr. Koppel

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Save the dates for the next St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you! The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 14 & 28 April (skipping 21 April for our Spring Congregational Meeting - also a great way to get to know who we are and what we do!), and 5 May.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship each of those Sundays for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Sunday, 21 April, 11am: Spring Congregational Meeting & Ice Cream Social. Please join us in Fellowship Hall immediately following worship for this year’s Spring meeting. ~Pr. Koppel

2024 Madagascar Girls Camp: Dear St. Paul family, the 2023 Madagascar Girls Camp was a huge success thanks to the generous support of the St. Paul community! In July 2024, we are doing it again. The Girls Camp is an opportunity for elementary school girls from rural remote areas of Madagascar to come to the Capital City of Antananarivo and learn about possibilities for the future (most of them have never left their villages and have limited knowledge about what women can do for professions). For five days, led by Rijasoa, 24 Girls and 6 female teachers will visit universities, listen to Church and Community leaders’ talks, and participate in Camp activities such as Bible stories, arts and crafts, songs and dances, and English language learning. All the expenses, including warm clothing, transportation, food, accommodation, and camp materials will be covered, as the girls and their teachers come from high poverty communities with no clean water, electric power, or adequate food. A portion of the cost is already provided by St. Paul from the 2023 Benevolence Disbursement Fund, and the remainder still needs to be raised.
A fundraiser luncheon featuring Malagasy food, music, and games is scheduled on Saturday April 20th at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. Come and learn about St. Paul's impact in Madagascar Education through the Girls' stories and aspirations from the 2023 Girls Camp. Your attendance and support is really appreciated! ~Rijasoa Andriamanana

Hygiene Kits Available in the Church Office: Both men’s and women’s; please pick up one or two, if you would like to keep them in your car to share with our neighbors in need. ~Deborah Ash

Altar Project Update: The ad hoc committee for the altar project has been moving forward towards the realization of the work. A contractor has been identified, Brian O’Connell, to perform the work and give input as the project design proceeds. The primary components of the project, the infill between the two raised platforms of the altar area and the provision of ramp for accessibility have been located. (See below, plus additional images are in the Welcome Center.) One concept being explored is to have Chris Sandoval, husband of Angela Robbins and an accomplished woodworker, look at providing a decorative screen for the ramp, sympathetic to original wood elements. Chris has had experience with many churches providing similar features, and it turns out that he is a cousin of Max Chavez, who did the original wood elements for our church. We are targeting sometime after Easter to begin the construction, most likely June. One idea being considered is having the congregation participate in the demolition phase as a means of involvement (and saving some money, too!). ~Jim Graf

Stephen Ministers continue to work at becoming better care givers by doing continuing education.  We have studied several books these last couple of years and thought we would offer them to the congregation.  We have a lending library in the foyer.  If you see a book that sparks your interest, just sign it out on the notebook.  There is no time limit for returning.  We ask you to write your name, the book title, and the date you are borrowing it. If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, contact Pastor Koppel, Terry Cole or Nancy Jenkins. ~Stephen Ministry

Albuquerque Pride Parade-Save the Date! 8 June. St. Paul is registered for the Pride Parade! If you would like to participate in any way, be it marching, riding, or helping to decorate our float, please be in touch with me. ~Jan Bowers

Adopted Families: A patient advocate at Healthcare for the Homeless contacted St. Paul, asking for help for a client who had recently been released from prison and had walking pneumonia and COVID. He needed the fare to take a bus to a neighboring state where he would be on parole. The advocate's supervisor and I worked out the logistics and when the client heard that we had secured his ticket, he was very thankful. I can't remember his exact words but he said having strangers care enough about him to help him was a real boost and just further encouraged him to try to help others. He is determined to stay away from drugs and that world, and he plans to use his experience in some way to counsel others. Also, we recently paid $240 toward a PNM bill for a single father to avoid disconnection. He was laid off from his job and is actively seeking another job. He heartily thanked me multiple times for our help. Thank you for helping us help others. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Opportunities to Donate:

• Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.

• We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.

• We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.

Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Thank You for Supporting Friends Feeding Friends! We delivered a $600 check to HopeWorks for the First Thursday meal in April. We so appreciate your support of our God’s Work Our Hands monthly projects! ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash, Nancy Jenkins

From Local Partner Organizations

ABQ FaithWorks New Executive Director Announced. ABQ FaithWorks is excited to announce and welcome its new Executive Director, Hannah Albee! Since moving to Albuquerque in 2021, Hannah continues her lifelong work serving individuals experiencing economic hardship here at ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative. Trained in School Counseling and Consultation, she has supported and advocated for students in the juvenile justice system as well as in schools. She has led fundraising and development programs at the largest soup kitchen in NYC, a community behavioral clinic in Connecticut, and most recently at Barrett Foundation here in Albuquerque, where she served as Interim Executive Director and Deputy Director. Having completed part of an MFA in Professional and Creative Writing, she continues to hone her craft with special memories from teaching a writers’ workshop at Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen. The mother of 3 grown children she is tremendously proud of, Hannah has found fulfillment with her new friendships and community in Albuquerque.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton’s Easter Message: View at https://vimeo.com/928165765

Nominate a Student for LSM: Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival (LSM) is a residential academy for high school musicians. Students study with nationally recognized faculty, and are immersed in musical experiences through large ensembles (Choir, Band and Symphony Orchestra), chamber music, private lessons, elective classes, ongoing recitals and concerts. Students also experience a welcoming and joyful community that worships together daily, offering musical gifts through Lutheran liturgy and hymnody. LSM 2024 takes place at Valparaiso University in Indiana from June 30-July 28 and is open to students who have completed grades 8-12. Spots for LSM 2024 are filling fast! Nominate a student today at: LSMacademy.org/nominate.

Updates Beginning 24 March 2024

Today: We are delighted to welcome Kurt Rager, Director of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry—New Mexico to the adult class this week. He will offer his insights on the recent legislative session—what was done, what was left undone, and how we can be involved in the interim before the next session in 2025. Bring your questions for Kurt and join us for a fascinating discussion. We meet after the Sunday service at 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room. Everyone (and we do mean everyone) is welcome.​~Bob Matthews

The Visual Choir is introducing a Cross of Flowers on Easter Sunday, 31 March, and we need your help! You are invited to bring cut flowers of any kind and color to tuck into the chicken wire-wrapped cross (in the Welcome Center) before the service begins.  The cross will be moved into the Sanctuary during the opening of the worship service. Members of the Visual Choir Team will be there to assist you with placing the flowers.  ~Jan Krakow, Visual Choir

On Sunday, April 14: St. Paul is hosting the monthly Love God Love Neighbor ABQ Youth Collaborative, the last of the school year, with FaithWorks presenting an experiential program for attendees. If you would like to support our youth in collecting disinfecting wipes for FaithWorks, please drop them off in the Church Office. Thanks! ~Pr. Koppel

2024 Madagascar Girls Camp: Dear St. Paul family, the 2023 Madagascar Girls Camp was a huge success thanks to the generous support of the St. Paul community! In July 2024, we are doing it again. The Girls Camp is an opportunity for elementary school girls from rural remote areas of Madagascar to come to the Capital City of Antananarivo and learn about possibilities for the future (most of them have never left their villages and have limited knowledge about what women can do for professions). For five days, led by Rijasoa, 24 Girls and 6 female teachers will visit universities, listen to Church and Community leaders’ talks, and participate in Camp activities such as Bible stories, arts and crafts, songs and dances, and English language learning. All the expenses, including warm clothing, transportation, food, accommodation, and camp materials will be covered, as the girls and their teachers come from high poverty communities with no clean water, electric power, or adequate food. A portion of the cost is already provided by St. Paul from the 2023 Benevolence Disbursement Fund, and the remainder still needs to be raised.
A fundraiser luncheon featuring Malagasy food, music, and games is scheduled on Saturday April 20th at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. Come and learn about St. Paul's impact in Madagascar Education through the Girls' stories and aspirations from the 2023 Girls Camp. Your attendance and support is really appreciated! ~Rijasoa Andriamanana

This month’s God’s Work Our Hands project: For our regular Friends Feeding Friends’1st Thursday meal at HopeWorks, we are asking for financial contributions toward that meal in April. We will provide those funds to them at the start of the month so that they can prepare the meal. As we have Holy Week the last week of March, we are choosing this option rather than preparing the food here. We aim for 30 serving pans each month; each pan runs approx. $20. Please note FFF on your check and place in the offering basket. We appreciate your support! Thank you! ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Altar Project Update: The ad hoc committee for the altar project has been moving forward towards the realization of the work. A contractor has been identified, Brian O’Connell, to perform the work and give input as the project design proceeds. The primary components of the project, the infill between the two raised platforms of the altar area and the provision of ramp for accessibility have been located. (See below, plus additional images are in the Welcome Center.) One concept being explored is to have Chris Sandoval, husband of Angela Robbins and an accomplished woodworker, look at providing a decorative screen for the ramp, sympathetic to original wood elements. Chris has had experience with many churches providing similar features, and it turns out that he is a cousin of Max Chavez, who did the original wood elements for our church. We are targeting sometime after Easter to begin the construction, most likely June. One idea being considered is having the congregation participate in the demolition phase as a means of involvement (and saving some money, too!). ~Jim Graf

Thank you to everyone who supported our midweek Lenten supper services with soup and bread and fellowship! And a thank you to everyone who came out Saturday to help with our Indoor Campus Cleanup! Stay tuned for Outside Campus Cleanup, 9am-Noon, on Saturday, April 13. ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Hygiene Kits Available in the Church Office: Both men’s and women’s; please pick up one or two, if you would like to keep them in your car to share with our neighbors in need. ~Deborah Ash

From Local Partner Organizations

Today, 24 March, 3pm: Bach and Tango. Performance by Dr. Chip Miller (St. Paul’s piano technician!). The first of a series, featuring tangos by Ernesto Nazareth, Eduardo Suoto, Astor Piazzolla, Marcelo Tupinambá, Carlos Gardel, and music from Bach’s Second Well-Tempered Clavier. Held at: Chatter, 912 3rd St NW, 87102.

 HopeWorks Volunteer Opportunities:

 Looking Ahead to 2024: Community Lunches + Tours: Interested in learning more about HopeWorks and the work that we do? Please consider joining us for one of our upcoming free Community Luncheons & Tours in 2024. We will be holding these tours every second Wednesday (April 10, May 8, etc.). Over a home-cooked meal, hear about our current work and campus expansion plans. Stay for a tour of campus, including Hope Village. RSVP are required; please contact Development Manager William Townley at wtownley@hopeworksnm.org or (505) 242- 4399 ext. 8213.

Donation Drive Opportunity: We are always in need of various supplies for our Day Shelter and other programs, and we are looking for groups to host donation drives! We are in need of the following: jeans (men’s size), socks and shoes, underwear, hats, jackets, blankets, sleeping bags, gloves, hot cocoa packets and travel size hand sanitizer. If you are interested in hosting a Donation Drive, please reach out to William, and he can send you a list of current needs and discuss further details, and help support your efforts. Items we accept:
·        Men's clothing
·        Cleaning supplies
·        Pre-packaged, non-perishable food
·        Meals from commercial-grade kitchens (arranged in advance)

Request for Gift Card Donations: HopeWorks is also seeking community donations of gift cards as a way to provide support to our loyal volunteers! We have a dedicated set of volunteers who consistently do what they can to provide quality services to our clients, so we are hoping to provide them support as well! Please contact William for more information.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Update from the Bishop Election Committee:
There are seven Ministers of Word and Sacrament who have indicated their openness to the call to be Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod. Those who are voting members at the upcoming Synod Assembly are encouraged to read their biographical forms at https://www.rmselca.org/leaders-in-discernment-24 and pray for all those who have submitted them.
            The first ballot at the Assembly is an Ecclesiastical Ballot, meaning that anyone who has submitted a biography must still be nominated on that ballot in order to be considered. Other Word & Sacrament Ministers in the ELCA who have not submitted a biography may also be nominated on the first ballot, so voting members are not limited to the names listed on this page. (Please see the “timeline” at https://www.rmselca.org/2024-bishop-election-processon for more information regarding the process.)
            The Bishop Election Committee joins the entire synod in praying for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in this process, and thanks all those who have discerned, and are still discerning, their openness to this call.

RMS Synod Assembly – On Our Way, Together”:
The Synod Council includes the 4 officers of the synod and 17 other members elected by the Synod Assembly; Synod Council members shall be voting members of an RMS congregation. The 17 members, other than the officers, are designated as 1 per conference (either lay or rostered leader) plus 7 at-large positions with 1 each for lay male, lay female, rostered leader, youth (under the age of 18), young adult (18-30 years of age), and 2 people of color and/or whose primary language is other than English; terms are 4 years except for the youth member who is elected in even numbered years for 2 years; terms are limited to 2 consecutive terms and begin on August 15. Officers’ terms begin on August 1. There are 10 positions on the Synod Council to be filled by the 2024 Synod Assembly:

• Secretary 

• Metro South Conference representative

• Boulder/Broomfield Conference representative

• Southeast Colorado Conference representative

• Border Conference representative

• Wyoming Conference representative

• Youth (under the age of 18)

• Young Adult (18-30 years of age)

• At-Large Rostered Leader

• One Person of color or whose primary language is other than English

Committee positions to be filled:
The Congregational Ministries Committee, recognizing that the church is always being reformed, gives ear to the Holy Spirit to determine ways to invite and equip congregations to effectively and creatively participate in God’s mission in their diverse contexts. The Congregational Ministries Committee will relate to the Synod Council and collaborate with other synod ministries as well as churchwide ministries as appropriate. The Congregational Ministries Committee has at least 6 members either elected by the Synod Assembly or appointed by the Synod Council for 4-year terms (ideally staggered among the members). Attention will be given to inviting a diversity of perspective and gifts.

Positions to be filled:

• Two lay or rostered leaders

The Discipline Committee consists of 12 persons, of whom 6 are rostered leaders and 6 are lay leaders elected for a term of 6 years without consecutive reelection. The functions of the Committee on Discipline are set forth in Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The Synod Council shall fill vacancies on the Committee on Discipline for any unexpired term.

Positions to be filled:

• One lay leader

• Three rostered leaders

 The Mission Outreach Committee is responsible for promoting, extending and coordinating the mission outreach activity of the synod, both on its own territory and throughout the world. To accomplish this end, the Mission Outreach Committee will relate to the appropriate Churchwide unit. Members serve 4-year terms.

Position to be filled:

• One lay or rostered leader

 The Global Church Network promotes and supports connection between Rocky Mountain Synod ministries and individuals and the global church through communication, education, and immersion opportunities. The Network is composed of 6 voting members: 3 members who are appointed by the Synod Council for a term of four years with the possibility of one consecutive reelection, and 3 at-large members who are elected by the Synod Assembly for a four-year term with the possibility of reelection.

Position to be filled:

• One lay or rostered leader

2025 Churchwide Assembly Voting Members will represent the RMS at the triennial Churchwide Assembly, which is scheduled to be held July 28-August 2, 2025, at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The Rocky Mountain Synod has been allocated ten voting members plus two additional voting members. CWA Voting Members to be elected (twelve total, reflecting the representational principles of the ELCA):

• Six lay leaders including youth (under the age of 18) or young adult (18-30 years of age): One spot is designated for the RMS Vice-President and One spot is designated for a youth or young adult with 4 additional spots.

• Four rostered leaders including the RMS bishop:  One spot is designated for the RMS bishop with 3 additional spots.                

• One additional person of color or person whose primary language is other than English

• One additional youth or youth adult

Links to nominate someone or yourself for any of these opportunities are at: https://www.rmselca.org/synod-assembly-2024-our-way-together

Nominate a Student for LSM: Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival (LSM) is a residential academy for high school musicians. Students study with nationally recognized faculty, and are immersed in musical experiences through large ensembles (Choir, Band and Symphony Orchestra), chamber music, private lessons, elective classes, ongoing recitals and concerts. Students also experience a welcoming and joyful community that worships together daily, offering musical gifts through Lutheran liturgy and hymnody. LSM 2024 takes place at Valparaiso University in Indiana from June 30-July 28 and is open to students who have completed grades 8-12. Spots for LSM 2024 are filling fast! Nominate a student today at: LSMacademy.org/nominate.

World Hunger 50th Anniversary: ELCA World Hunger is this church’s ministry to end hunger and poverty. For 50 years we have joined together as Lutherans to address the root causes of hunger and poverty around the world through ELCA World Hunger. Part of our church’s long tradition of meeting human needs, ELCA World Hunger testifies to our hope for and commitment to God’s promise of a time when we will hunger and thirst no more. In 2024 we will commemorate the 50th anniversary of this ministry. We have made great strides, but once again we face a startling increase in global hunger. See 50th anniversary resources at: https://elca.org/wh50.

The next few months will be especially critical for Bread’s work as we strive to live our faith and effectively advocate for those who are suffering. With the election approaching this fall, we have a limited time frame to ensure that we are able to advance our legislative priorities.
When you join other compassionate Bread members to further the progress we’re making to help children and families get the food they need to survive and thrive, you’re part of this critical work. Thank you so much for your support! ~Lauren Stuber, Giving Manager,  https://www.bread.org/

Updates Beginning 17 March 2024

Today: Adult Faith Development wraps up a Lenten series entitled “Why Church?”. The series, originally developed by The Rocky Mountain Synod Congregational Ministry Committee, asks congregations a number of questions about what God is calling the church to become. In particular, it asks, "Why does the world need [St. Paul] church today and into the future." We'll be led by Scripture and prayer as we discuss these and other questions. Join Adult Faith Development after the service at 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room. Everyone is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

This Wednesday: Final Midweek Lent Soup, Song, and Scripture in Fellowship Hall. 6pm meal, 6:45 service.  Link to the resource: https://saintpaul-lutheranchurch.squarespace.com/s/Why-Church-Lent-booklet.pdf

Next Saturday, 23 March: Indoor Campus Cleanup, 9am-Noon! A sign-up sheet is in the Welcome Center, so we have a head count (for pizza when we wrap up!) Bring cleaning gloves, we have the supplies. Thank you for helping to buff and polish our Church for the Easter Season! ~Deborah Ash

The Visual Choir is introducing a Cross of Flowers on Easter Sunday, 31 March, and we need your help! You are invited to bring cut flowers of any kind and color to tuck into the chicken wire-wrapped cross (in the Welcome Center) before the service begins.  The cross will be moved into the Sanctuary during the opening of the worship service. Members of the Visual Choir Team will be there to assist you with placing the flowers.  ~Jan Krakow, Visual Choir

This month’s God’s Work Our Hands project: For our regular Friends Feeding Friends’1st Thursday meal at HopeWorks, we are asking for financial contributions toward that meal in April. We will provide those funds to them at the start of the month so that they can prepare the meal. As we have Holy Week the last week of March, we are choosing this option rather than preparing the food here. We aim for 30 serving pans each month; each pan runs approx. $20. Please note FFF on your check and place in the offering basket. We appreciate your support! The health & wellness kits for FaithWorks (last month’s project) were dropped off and were very much appreciated. Thank you! ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

2024 Madagascar Girls Camp: Dear St. Paul family, the 2023 Madagascar Girls Camp was a huge success thanks to the generous support of the St. Paul community! In July 2024, we are doing it again. The Girls Camp is an opportunity for elementary school girls from rural remote areas of Madagascar to come to the Capital City of Antananarivo and learn about possibilities for the future (most of them have never left their villages and have limited knowledge about what women can do for professions). For five days, led by Rijasoa, 24 Girls and 6 female teachers will visit universities, listen to Church and Community leaders’ talks, and participate in Camp activities such as Bible stories, arts and crafts, songs and dances, and English language learning. All the expenses, including warm clothing, transportation, food, accommodation, and camp materials will be covered, as the girls and their teachers come from high poverty communities with no clean water, electric power, or adequate food. A portion of the cost is already provided by St. Paul from the 2023 Benevolence Disbursement Fund, and the remainder still needs to be raised.
A fundraiser luncheon featuring Malagasy food, music, and games is scheduled on Saturday April 20th at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. Come and learn about St. Paul's impact in Madagascar Education through the Girls' stories and aspirations from the 2023 Girls Camp. Your attendance and support is really appreciated! ~Rijasoa Andriamanana

A “Thank You” to St. Paul:
Your gift of $1,600 designated for Refugee Albuquerque is an open door to a new life. Like you, we are “rooted in the values of kindness, dignity, and social justice. Lutheran Family Services-Rocky Mountains strengthens communities by providing support, guidance, and resource coordination to individuals and families throughout the region.” Our clients have experienced many closed doors. Your support is a portal to a new life made possible by your generosity.
Sincerely, Margo Hatton, CFRE, LFS-RM VP, Resource Development
P.S. One world, one family. Thank you for joining us in our mission to serve. 

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Next Sunday: Bach and Tango, 24 March, 3pm. Performance by Dr. Chip Miller (St. Paul’s piano technician!). The first of a series, featuring tangos by Ernesto Nazareth, Eduardo Suoto, Astor Piazzolla, Marcelo Tupinambá, Carlos Gardel, and music from Bach’s Second Well-Tempered Clavier. Held at: Chatter, 912 3rd St NW, 87102.

HopeWorks Volunteer Opportunities:

Tomorrow: Volunteers Needed on March 18th!
We are holding a client BBQ on March 18th, and we need your help! We need volunteers to help provide surveys to our clients in either paper or electronic formats. Can you join us on March 18th? We will provide food and beverages to those in attendance. Please contact William (see info below) to volunteer!

Donation Drive Opportunity
We are always in need of various supplies for our Day Shelter and other programs, and we are looking for groups to host donation drives! We are in need of the following: jeans (men’s size), socks and shoes, underwear, hats, jackets, blankets, sleeping bags, gloves, hot cocoa packets and travel size hand sanitizer. If you are interested in hosting a Donation Drive, please reach out to William, and he can send you a list of current needs and discuss further details, and help support your efforts. Items we accept:
·        Men's clothing
·        Cleaning supplies
·        Pre-packaged, non-perishable food
·        Meals from commercial-grade kitchens (arranged in advance)

Please contact Development Manager William Townley at wtownley@hopeworksnm.org or (505) 242- 4399 ext. 8213.

Request for Gift Card Donation
HopeWorks is also seeking community donations of gift cards as a way to provide support to our loyal volunteers! We have a dedicated set of volunteers who consistently do what they can to provide quality services to our clients, so we are hoping to provide them support as well! Please contact William if you would like more information.

Looking Ahead to 2024: Community Lunches + Tours
Interested in learning more about HopeWorks and the work that we do? Please consider joining us for one of our upcoming free Community Luncheons & Tours in 2024. We will be holding these tours every second Wednesday (April 10, May 8, etc.). Over a home-cooked meal, hear about our current work and campus expansion plans. Stay for a tour of campus, including Hope Village. RSVP are required; contact William Townley at wtownley@hopeworksnm.org or (505) 242- 4399 ext. 8213. 

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From the AMMPARO Team: The Conference of Bishops of the ELCA have issued a statement of support “in solidarity with people of faith who respond to God’s call to serve their neighbor.” In the statement, the body said they “are deeply troubled by the actions of the Texas attorney general’s office against Annunciation House, a volunteer-run faith-based organization that has been a pillar of welcome and hospitality in El Paso for more than 40 years.”

• Conference of Bishops Statement of Solidarity with Migrants in Texas here: https://www.elca.org/News-and-Events/8218

• Living Lutheran article here: https://www.livinglutheran.org/2024/03/elca-conference-of-bishops-issues-statement-in-solidarity-with-migrants-in-texas/

ELCA Conference of Bishops calls for permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza. See: https://www.elca.org/News-and-Events/8217

Update from the Bishop Election Committee:
There are seven Ministers of Word and Sacrament who have indicated their openness to the call to be Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod. Those who are voting members at the upcoming Synod Assembly are encouraged to read their biographical forms at https://www.rmselca.org/leaders-in-discernment-24 and pray for all those who have submitted them.
            The first ballot at the Assembly is an Ecclesiastical Ballot, meaning that anyone who has submitted a biography must still be nominated on that ballot in order to be considered. Other Word & Sacrament Ministers in the ELCA who have not submitted a biography may also be nominated on the first ballot, so voting members are not limited to the names listed on this page. (Please see the “timeline” at https://www.rmselca.org/2024-bishop-election-processon for more information regarding the process.)
            The Bishop Election Committee joins the entire synod in praying for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in this process, and thanks all those who have discerned, and are still discerning, their openness to this call.

RMS Synod Assembly – On Our Way, Together”:

The Synod Council includes the 4 officers of the synod and 17 other members elected by the Synod Assembly; Synod Council members shall be voting members of an RMS congregation. The 17 members, other than the officers, are designated as 1 per conference (either lay or rostered leader) plus 7 at-large positions with 1 each for lay male, lay female, rostered leader, youth (under the age of 18), young adult (18-30 years of age), and 2 people of color and/or whose primary language is other than English; terms are 4 years except for the youth member who is elected in even numbered years for 2 years; terms are limited to 2 consecutive terms and begin on August 15. Officers’ terms begin on August 1.

There are 10 positions on the Synod Council to be filled by the 2024 Synod Assembly:

• Secretary 

• Metro South Conference representative

• Boulder/Broomfield Conference representative

• Southeast Colorado Conference representative

• Border Conference representative

• Wyoming Conference representative

• Youth (under the age of 18)

• Young Adult (18-30 years of age)

• At-Large Rostered Leader

• One Person of color or whose primary language is other than English

Committee positions to be filled:
The Discipline Committee consists of 12 persons, of whom 6 are rostered leaders and 6 are lay leaders elected for a term of 6 years without consecutive reelection. The functions of the Committee on Discipline are set forth in Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The Synod Council shall fill vacancies on the Committee on Discipline for any unexpired term.

Positions to be filled:

• One lay leader

• Three rostered leaders

The Mission Outreach Committee is responsible for promoting, extending and coordinating the mission outreach activity of the synod, both on its own territory and throughout the world. To accomplish this end, the Mission Outreach Committee will relate to the appropriate Churchwide unit. Members serve 4 year terms.

Position to be filled:

• One lay or rostered leader

The Global Church Network promotes and supports connection between Rocky Mountain Synod ministries and individuals and the global church through communication, education, and immersion opportunities. The Network is composed of 6 voting members: 3 members who are appointed by the Synod Council for a term of four years with the possibility of one consecutive reelection, and 3 at-large members who are elected by the Synod Assembly for a four-year term with the possibility of reelection.

Position to be filled:

·        One lay or rostered leader

The Congregational Ministries Committee, recognizing that the church is always being reformed, gives ear to the Holy Spirit to determine ways to invite and equip congregations to effectively and creatively participate in God’s mission in their diverse contexts. The Congregational Ministries Committee will relate to the Synod Council and collaborate with other synod ministries as well as churchwide ministries as appropriate. The Congregational Ministries Committee has at least 6 members either elected by the Synod Assembly or appointed by the Synod Council for 4-year terms (ideally staggered among the members). Attention will be given to inviting a diversity of perspective and gifts.

Positions to be filled:

• Two lay or rostered leaders

2025 Churchwide Assembly Voting Members will represent the Rocky Mountain Synod at the triennial Churchwide Assembly, which is scheduled to be held July 28-August 2, 2025, at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The Rocky Mountain Synod has been allocated ten voting members plus two additional voting members.

CWA Voting Members to be elected (twelve total, reflecting the representational principles of the ELCA):

• Six lay leaders including youth (under the age of 18) or young adult (18-30 years of age): One spot is designated for the RMS Vice-President and One spot is designated for a youth or young adult with 4 additional spots.

• Four rostered leaders including the RMS bishop:  One spot is designated for the RMS bishop with 3 additional spots.                

• One additional person of color or person whose primary language is other than English

• One additional youth or youth adult

Links to nominate someone or yourself for any of these opportunities are at: https://www.rmselca.org/synod-assembly-2024-our-way-together

World Hunger 50th Anniversary: For 50 years we have joined together as Lutherans to address the root causes of hunger and poverty around the world through ELCA World Hunger. Part of our church’s long tradition of meeting human needs, ELCA World Hunger testifies to our hope for and commitment to God’s promise of a time when we will hunger and thirst no more. In 2024 we will commemorate the 50th anniversary of this ministry. We have made great strides, but once again we face a startling increase in global hunger. See 50th anniversary resources at: https://elca.org/wh50.

Updates Beginning 10 March 2024

Today: Adult Faith Development continues a Lenten series entitled “Why Church?”. The series, originally developed by The Rocky Mountain Synod Congregational Ministry Committee, asks congregations a number of questions about what God is calling the church to become. In particular, it asks, "Why does the world need [St. Paul] church today and into the future." We'll be led by Scripture and prayer as we discuss these and other questions. Join Adult Faith Development after the service at 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room. Everyone is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

Today: Are you a technology guru? Do you enjoy social media? Do you know what the following acronyms mean...SEO, WWW, URL, UX? Or, are you curious? Join the newly energized technology team directly after service today - let's meet in the church office to exchange contact information and schedule our first meeting! ~Sara Love

Mark Your Calendars! Easter is early this year, so we have split our Campus Cleanup to accommodate the weather: Saturday, March 23 (day before Palm Sunday) for cleanup inside, and Saturday, April 13 for cleanup outside. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer. ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

The Visual Choir is introducing a Cross of Flowers on Easter Sunday, 31 March, and we need your help! You are invited to bring cut flowers of any kind and color to tuck into the chicken wire-wrapped cross (in the Welcome Center) before the service begins.  The cross will be moved into the Sanctuary during the opening of the worship service. Members of the Visual Choir Team will be there to assist you with placing the flowers.  ~Jan Krakow, Visual Choir

This month’s God’s Work Our Hands project: For our regular Friends Feeding Friends’1st Thursday meal at HopeWorks, we are asking for financial contributions toward that meal in April. We will provide those funds to them at the start of the month so that they can prepare the meal. As we have Holy Week the last week of March, we are choosing this option rather than preparing the food here. We aim for 30 trays each month; each tray runs approx. $20. Please note FFF on your check and place in the offering basket. We appreciate your support! The health & wellness kits for FaithWorks were dropped off this past week and were much appreciated. Thank you! ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Save the dates for the next St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you! The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 14 & 28 April (skipping 21 April for our Spring Congregational Meeting - also a great way to get to know who we are and what we do!), and 5 May.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship each of those Sundays for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Hold the Date: Saturday, 20 April - Fundraising Luncheon for the Madagascar Girls’ Camp! Details to come soon. ~Rijasoa Andriamanana

Else Tasseron is moving! For her new address and phone number, please contact Nancy Jenkins. ~Deborah Ash

Sign up for Flowers and/or Refreshments for 2024! It’s a new year and updated charts are available in Friendship Corner. We hope you will join us in providing coffeetime treats for after service and take the opportunity to recognize loved ones and events with flower dedications. ~Deborah Ash

Adopted Families: One of our "old" adoptees volunteers at an organization that is helping refugees from Central and South America. She was working with three men from Venezuela who were to start construction work but they needed work boots. We gave her $200 in cash and gift cards left from Christmas so she could take them to buy the boots. She also used a little of the money to buy toiletries and cleaning supplies for a family that had just moved into an apartment. There is no end to the need out there - we'll just keep trying to help where we can. Thanks for your support. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Prayer Walk. In this Lenten season, Greater Albuquerque Church of Christ (GACC) and St. Paul are partnering in a Prayer Walk along the hallway leading to Fellowship Hall. You will find a table with sticky notes and pens to write your prayers and post them on the long sheet of contact paper on the wall.  Our goal is to share our prayers amongst both congregations. You can take a prayer with you to incorporate into your daily prayers and return it the next time. (Or take a picture.) Take a prayer and leave a prayer! Our hope is that our mutual Prayer Walk will reveal to each of us the power of prayer in our daily lives.
James 5:16b – “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
~Pr. Koppel & Karen Waggoner, GACC Board Member

A “Thank You” to St. Paul:
Thank you for your generous gift to the Center for Civic Policy for the New Mexico Dream Team! We have much work to do as we create the information needed to change the hearts and minds of New Mexicans. Thank you for your commitment as we strive for the values of family, honesty, and respect. Your gift will directly impact New Mexico. Thanks for supporting our work! Sincerely, Oriana Sandoval, Chief Executive Director

From Local Partner Organizations

Bach and Tango, Sunday, 24 March, 3pm. Performance by Dr. Chip Miller (St. Paul’s piano technician!). The first of a series, featuring tangos by Ernesto Nazareth, Eduardo Suoto, Astor Piazzolla, Marcelo Tupinambá, Carlos Gardel, and music from Bach’s Second Well-Tempered Clavier. Held at: Chatter, 912 3rd St NW, 87102.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From the AMMPARO Team: The Conference of Bishops of the ELCA have issued a statement of support “in solidarity with people of faith who respond to God’s call to serve their neighbor.” In the statement, the body said they “are deeply troubled by the actions of the Texas attorney general’s office against Annunciation House, a volunteer-run faith-based organization that has been a pillar of welcome and hospitality in El Paso for more than 40 years.”

• Conference of Bishops Statement of Solidarity with Migrants in Texas here: https://www.elca.org/News-and-Events/8218

• Living Lutheran article here: https://www.livinglutheran.org/2024/03/elca-conference-of-bishops-issues-statement-in-solidarity-with-migrants-in-texas/

ELCA Conference of Bishops calls for permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza. See: https://www.elca.org/News-and-Events/8217

The ELCA's new initiative, Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel, presents Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey. SUMUD means "resilience" in Arabic (formerly Peace Not Walls). This Lenten video series consists of six short videos that introduce people to the land, the theology of sumud and its significance through Scripture as the “way of Jesus.” Available in both English and Arabic. For additional information and to watch the video: https://www.elca.org/our-work/publicly-engaged-church/peace-not-walls

Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge to benefit ELCA World Hunger! In honor of ELCA World Hunger’s 50th year in mission and ministry, the 5 synods in ELCA Region 2 are challenging one another to raise money for ELCA World Hunger. The challenge: Participate in some spiritual and physical practices during the 40 days of Lent, 2024. The synod with the most participants wins! More than 820 million people, about 11% of the world’s population today, are hungry. As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond. Individuals can sign up here: https://www.lentenchallenge.org/

Updates Beginning 3 March 2024

Today: Adult Faith Development continues a Lenten series entitled “Why Church?”. The series, originally developed by The Rocky Mountain Synod Congregational Ministry Committee, asks congregations a number of questions about what God is calling the church to become. In particular, it asks, "Why does the world need [St. Paul] church today and into the future." We'll be led by Scripture and prayer as we discuss these and other questions. Join Adult Faith Development after the service at 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room. Everyone is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

This Week: First Tuesday on March 5th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE.  It seems like we just gathered there! Sometimes we just chat and other times we dive deeper.  All are welcome.  Bring your own snack if you want and if you don't drink beer, bring your beverage of choice.  First Tuesday is a good way to get to know others. ~Nancy Matthews

Thank You, St. Paul, for all your cards and calls. You made my heart feel good. ~Carol Ann Sorensen

Else Tasseron is moving! For her new address and phone number, please contact Nancy Jenkins. ~Deborah Ash

Are you a technology guru? Do you enjoy social media? Do you know what the following acronyms mean...SEO, WWW, URL, UX? Or, are you curious? Join the newly energized technology team directly after service on Sunday, March 10th - let's meet in the church office to exchange contact information and schedule our first meeting! ~Sara Love

Save the dates for the next St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you! The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 14 & 28 April (skipping 21 April for our Spring Congregational Meeting - also a great way to get to know who we are and what we do!), and 5 May.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship each of those Sundays for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Thank You for your recent gift of $250 to Church Women United in New Mexico. Your caring support is crucial to the CWU mission of working towards unity in diversity, and building a world of peace and justice.
~Ruth Tribou, Treasurer

Mark Your Calendars! Easter is early this year, so we have split our Campus Cleanup to accommodate the weather: Saturday, March 23 (day before Palm Sunday) for cleanup inside, and Saturday, April 13 for cleanup outside. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer. ~Deborah Ash

Sign up for Flowers and/or Refreshments for 2024! It’s a new year and updated charts are available in Friendship Corner. We hope you will join us in providing coffeetime treats for after service and take the opportunity to recognize loved ones and events with flower dedications. ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome. (A full load was just picked up!)
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge to benefit ELCA World Hunger! In honor of ELCA World Hunger’s 50th year in mission and ministry, the 5 synods in ELCA Region 2 are challenging one another to raise money for ELCA World Hunger. The challenge: Participate in some spiritual and physical practices during the 40 days of Lent, 2024. The synod with the most participants wins! More than 820 million people, about 11% of the world’s population today, are hungry. As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond. Individuals can sign up here: https://www.lentenchallenge.org/

The ELCA's new initiative, Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel, presents Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey. SUMUD means "resilience" in Arabic (formerly Peace Not Walls). This Lenten video series consists of six short videos that introduce people to the land, the theology of sumud and its significance through Scripture as the “way of Jesus.” Available in both English and Arabic. For additional information and to watch the video: https://www.elca.org/our-work/publicly-engaged-church/peace-not-walls

Updates Beginning 25 February 2024

Today: Adult Faith Development continues a Lenten series entitled “Why Church?”. The series, originally developed by The Rocky Mountain Synod Congregational Ministry Committee, asks congregations a number of questions about what God is calling the church to become. In particular, it asks, "Why does the world need [St. Paul] church today and into the future." We'll be led by Scripture and prayer as we discuss these and other questions. Join Adult Faith Development after the service at 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room. Everyone is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

Today: After service we will be packing up the health & wellness kits for FaithWorks. Thank you for your donations in support of this month’s God’s Work Our Hands project! ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash, Nancy Jenkins

First Tuesday will be March 5th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm at SW Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria NE.  It seems like we just gathered there! Sometimes we just chat and other times we dive deeper.  All are welcome.  Bring your own snack if you want and if you don't drink beer, bring your beverage of choice.  First Tuesday is a good way to get to know others. ~Nancy Matthews

Metamorphosis. Our hungry caterpillar gorged on massive amounts of leaves in preparation for metamorphosis. With the proper conditions, this radical transformation can happen in a month, but can take up to 3 years if the food and water conditions are not adequate. Now look at the cocoon (chrysalis) hanging on the tree at the front of the Sanctuary. Watch the cocoon each Sunday as it journeys to the completion of its transformation.
          Think about your journey during these 40 days of Lent and give yourself spiritual food and contemplation time. What transformation is occurring in your life? ~Jo Browning, Visual Choir

Restored today, we remember that all life is represented in our Lenten Journey. Thanks to Worship and Music for their creative work to represent this journey and to their contribution to center our hearts on the work God has given and keeps alive. Paul Gallegos created the work of art that stands in our narthex, visible as we enter and exit the Sanctuary. The tree that has become a cross was a live Christmas tree saved from years ago, used at St. Paul. When you study it, note the crack that has formed along the long portion of this simple symbol of God’s abounding love. Leonard Cohen reminds us that, “there is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” As we walk these forty days, may we pause with awe, pray with intention and serve in every way possible. ~Julie Ambrogi

Greetings St. Paul Community,
This note is in light of a missed opportunity on my part to follow-up with pastoral care for a dear soul, which prompted Council conversations and deep discernment for me.  Here's a written summary of our conversations outlining our model of Pastoral Care:   

First, we are a community who strives for the best and who also practices forgiveness when we miss the mark.  Second, as the priesthood of believers, I am not the funnel through which all pastoral care needs are made known and/or tended to.  (If we desire a central person for pastoral care, we might consider a Visiting Pastor to do this ministry.  All Saints recently contracted with a retired pastor for this purpose.)   And third, our Behavioral Covenant (or Community Covenant) is crucial in our interactions with one another. [See page 23 of this bulletin.]

When a St. Paul member hears about a potential pastoral care-giving need, the following ministries are encouraged:
·        Member to Member Care - the person receiving the request may offer a listening ear and/or pray directly with the requester.
·        Pastoral Care Visits - typically provided by me, but others are experienced and available, especially when I am out of the office.
·        Visitation Team Visits - home and hospital visits, typically include Communion and/or oil blessings.  Our Visitation Team: Julie Ambrogi, Kay Fulton, Sharon Howard, and Diane Remer-Thamert.
·        Stephen Minister Visits - meetings with a specifically trained minister who comes alongside someone (for a few visits or long-term) who might be grieving, going through a difficult situation, or experiencing a crisis of some sort.  Our Stephen Ministers:  Terry Cole, Paula Eglinton, Linda FitzGerald, Nancy Jenkins, Jan Krakow, and Jeff Peterson.
·        Addition to the Prayer Chain - an email group who receives prayer requests and offers intercessory prayer (honoring privacy as indicated by the requester).  Prayer Chain:  Julie Ambrogi, Kathy Callahan, Terry Cole, Paula Eglinton, Jenny Galasso, Sharon Howard, Nancy Jenkins, Herb Korff, Nancy Matthews, and Cheryl Schultz.
·        Addition to the Sunday bulletin - a weekly prayer list, with first names or situations only, included in the bulletin (also honoring privacy as indicated by the requester).

Please know that I meet regularly with the Visitation Team, and in March will begin meeting regularly with Stephen Ministers.  I also receive the Prayer Chain prayer requests, holding them and all of you in prayer.  I personally respond/reach-out to known pastoral care needs via scheduled and unscheduled visits, conversations at church and in the community, phone calls, cards, emails, instant messaging, texts, etc.  Should I fail to miss a cue or come alongside a need, please make that need known directly with me.

Peace be with you.  Peace be with us.
Pr. Koppel

Adopted Families: One of our "old" adoptees volunteers at an organization that is helping refugees from Central and South America. She was working with three men from Venezuela who were to start construction work but they needed work boots. We gave her $200 in cash and gift cards left from Christmas so she could take them to buy the boots. She also used a little of the money to buy toiletries and cleaning supplies for a family that had just moved into an apartment. There is no end to the need out there - we'll just keep trying to help where we can. Thanks for your support. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Prayer Walk. In this Lenten season, Greater Albuquerque Church of Christ (GACC) and St. Paul are partnering in a Prayer Walk along the hallway leading to Fellowship Hall. You will find a table with sticky notes and pens to write your prayers and post them on the long sheet of contact paper on the wall.  Our goal is to share our prayers amongst both congregations. You can take a prayer with you to incorporate into your daily prayers and return it the next time. (Or take a picture.) Take a prayer and leave a prayer! Our hope is that our mutual Prayer Walk will reveal to each of us the power of prayer in our daily lives.
James 5:16b – “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
~Pr. Koppel & Karen Waggoner, GACC Board Member

2023 Giving Statements.  It is once again the time of year when you may want a copy of your giving statement for the 2023 tax year. I am happy to send one to anyone who made a contribution in this past year. All you need to do is request one using my email address (finsec@stpaulabq.org) or text (or call) me on my cell phone (505-363-2284). I will send an electronic copy or a paper copy, whichever you prefer. ~Paula Eglinton 

Mark Your Calendars! Easter is early this year, so we have split our Campus Cleanup to accommodate the weather: Saturday, March 23 (day before Palm Sunday) for cleanup inside, and Saturday, April 13 for cleanup outside. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer. ~Deborah Ash

Sign up for Flowers and/or Refreshments for 2024! It’s a new year and updated charts are available in Friendship Corner. We hope you will join us in providing coffeetime treats for after service and take the opportunity to recognize loved ones and events with flower dedications. ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate:
·        Donations of nonperishable foodstuffs to the Storehouse (barrels in the Narthex). Pet food is also welcome.
·        We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
·        We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office.
Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

This Friday, 1 March at 9:15am, Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will meet for the World Day of Prayer service at Manzano del Sol, 5201 Roma NE. The service was prepared by the World Day of Prayer Committee of Palestine and the WDP USA Committee. Our speaker will be Lamia Faruki who serves on the board of Tomorrow’s Women, a group that brings together Palestinian and Jewish young women for a six-week experience in learning about each other's culture one on one. Lamia and Holly, the Director of the group, will introduce us to their group’s mission and show interviews with some of the young women who have been part of the experience in the past. Please join us and bring a friend! For more information, contact Marilyn Stoops at 505-265-8358 or mstoops@swcp.com. ~Marilyn Stoops, CWU Communications Committee

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church Seeks Your Input. The Commission is tasked with collecting information about what is working and what is not working at the church wide, synod, and congregational levels. It will present its findings to the 2025 Churchwide Assembly.
          The Commission wants to hear from you through a brief survey that asks about the purpose of congregations, synods, and the churchwide office. The survey also asks, “What should the future church look like?”
          Along with information received at listening sessions across the church, this survey will inform the commission’s recommendations.
          The survey is available in Spanish and English. More information regarding the survey and the work of CRLC is available here: https://www.elca.org/CRLC.

Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge to benefit ELCA World Hunger! In honor of ELCA World Hunger’s 50th year in mission and ministry, the 5 synods in ELCA Region 2 are challenging one another to raise money for ELCA World Hunger. The challenge: Participate in some spiritual and physical practices during the 40 days of Lent, 2024. The synod with the most participants wins! More than 820 million people, about 11% of the world’s population today, are hungry. As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond. Individuals can sign up here: https://www.lentenchallenge.org/

Updates Beginning 18 February 2024

Beginning this Wednesday:

Today after service, Adult Faith Development begins a Lenten series entitled "Why Church?”. The series, originally developed by The Rocky Mountain Synod Congregational Ministry Committee, asks congregations a number of questions about what God is calling the church to become. In particular, it asks, "Why does the world need [St. Paul] church today and into the future." We'll be led by Scripture and prayer as we discuss these and other questions.
          Note that this series will also be used at the mid-week Soup, Song, and Scripture sessions. You are welcome to attend either one or both! We anticipate that the discussions will be different in the two venues, and taking the two together may yield important insights.
          Join Adult Faith Development after the service at 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room. Everyone is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

Prayer Walk. In this Lenten season, Greater Albuquerque Church of Christ (GACC) and St. Paul are partnering in a Prayer Walk along the hallway leading to Fellowship Hall. You will find a table with sticky notes and pens to write your prayers and post them on the long sheet of contact paper on the wall.
          Our goal is to share our prayers amongst both congregations. You can take a prayer with you to incorporate into your daily prayers and return it the next time. (Or take a picture.) Take a prayer and leave a prayer! Our hope is that our mutual Prayer Walk will reveal to each of us the power of prayer in our daily lives.
James 5:16b – “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
~Pr. Koppel & Karen Waggoner, GACC Board Member

February’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be health & wellness kits for FaithWorks. They have need of specific items that St. Paul can buy in bulk and have delivered to the church (more cost effective). We need to raise about $300, order the items and then we will, together, pack and deliver these kits on February 25 after service. We are collecting donations for the next 3 weeks to order the kits. These kits run about $20. Please put your donations in the offering, marked for Health & Wellness Kits or see one of us if you have questions. As we continue to work together, we can make a difference! Thank you. ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash, Nancy Jenkins

2023 Giving Statements.  It is once again the time of year when you may want a copy of your giving statement for the 2023 tax year. I am happy to send one to anyone who made a contribution in this past year. All you need to do is request one using my email address (finsec@stpaulabq.org) or text (or call) me on my cell phone (505-363-2284). I will send an electronic copy or a paper copy, whichever you prefer. ~Paula Eglinton

A Thank You to St. Paul:
Dear Friends, thank you for your gift of $100.00 to Bread for the World. Thank you for responding to Rick Steves’ matching gift offer. We are so grateful for your generous contribution. Your support is crucial and especially impactful, as Bread for the World begins the launch of the Nourish Our Future advocacy campaign. Your gift helps children all over the world have access to the food they need to grow and thrive.
With gratitude, Rev. Eugene Cho, President

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Outreach Team Announcements:  The following are outcomes from our meeting this past week:
1.   Recommending to Council that St. Paul: Increase our Albuquerque Interfaith membership to $2500 (from $2000), and increase our Bread for the World membership to $300 (from $200).

2.   Bread for the World annual letter writing campaign in May.

3.   St. Paul participation in the 2024 Pride Parade, Saturday, June 8, Nob Hill.

4.   Faith Development class sharing in the last Sunday of the month service project during Fall 2024.
~Will Hoffman for the Outreach Team

Adopted Families: I received some thank you notes from the counselor and her clients for the Christmas gifts we gave them. Here are some quotes from the clients:
"Thank you, thank you so much for being so kind and generous."
"Thank you so much for the gifts that you gave me I really appreciate it a lot I really hope God blesses you every day."
"Thank you for all you do! I really appreciate it. God bless you all. Thank you for making our children happy this Christmas."
"The only gifts my brother & I got this year were from St Paul. I appreciate so much to you."
"Thank You for all our goodies cause our parents are broke & struggling!"
And a quote from the counselor:
"I do not know how long your folks have been supporting my clients for your Christmas gift-giving. It's been many years now and the results are quite amazing because the families I choose really need the love and support these gifts provide...I thank you from the bottom of my heart for making all this happen. The quilts are my favorite because I am able to tell family members that your quilters pray for families while sewing together these pieces of fabric and ask God for blessings of the receivers!"
Life does go on after Christmas. Our "movers" delivered two donated beds to a family in the International District; the mom was very grateful to have a nice place to sleep for herself and her husband and their kids. And thanks to your generous donations, we were able to pay the $500 deposit for a refugee family from Venezuela so they could move into an apartment. The father is working construction and had enough for the first month's rent, but they needed help with the deposit. Now the father, mother, and two young daughters have a place to call home in this country. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator 

Mark Your Calendars! Easter is early this year, so we have split our Campus Cleanup to accommodate the weather: Saturday, March 23 (day before Palm Sunday) for cleanup inside, and Saturday, April 13 for cleanup outside. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer. ~Deborah Ash

Sign up for Flowers and/or Refreshments for 2024! It’s a new year and updated charts are available in Friendship Corner. We hope you will join us in providing coffeetime treats for after service and take the opportunity to recognize loved ones and events with flower dedications. ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate: I was reading that when we give something away (like food, for instance) it activates the brain to release oxytocin. This neuropeptide does all sorts of things like making us feel connected to other humans, even if we don't know them. So, if you want more of the good feelings that come from oxytocin, why not bring a donation for the Storehouse barrels in the Narthex?  Pet food is also welcome.
We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today: Coro Lux cordially invites you to join us for our first concert of 2024, “Music in the Air.” As Black History Month is upon us, we strive to strengthen our community by honoring the significant contributions that African-American composers and conductors have made to choral music. This concert, taking place at the African-American Performing Arts Center (310 San Pedro NE) seeks to do just that. As we perform music that enlivens the soul and gladdens the heart, we hope you join us for a joyous musical experience, February 18th at 4pm.  Featuring special performances from soloist and UNM professor Stevie Springer and UNM’s Gospel Choir, as well as appearances by our youth chorus, El Faro Youth Chorus, and select group, Coro Lux Chamber Chorus, this concert will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Black History Month, and enjoy a truly multi-cultural musical occasion! Tickets at: https://abqcorolux.org/tickets/ ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

La Mesa Presbyterian Church Concert Series. We are excited about doing a “new thing” at La Mesa, hosting live concerts of wonderful musicians in our sanctuary. Our first live concert is by the fabulous folk singer, Deidre McCalla, next Sunday, February 25th at 3pm. Read more about her at: https://deidremccalla.com/. To reserve a “free will donation” seat for $20, go to LMPCTICKETS.BPT.ME. Thank you in advance for your support of this new venture. ~Rev. Dr. Brett Mitchell

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will meet for the World Day of Prayer service on Friday, March 1st at 9:15 at Manzano del Sol, 5201 Roma NE. The service was prepared by the World Day of Prayer Committee of Palestine and the WDP USA Committee. Our speaker will be Lamia Faruki who serves on the board of Tomorrow’s Women, a group that brings together Palestinian and Jewish young women for a six-week experience in learning about each other's culture one on one. Lamia and Holly, the Director of the group, will introduce us to their group’s mission and show interviews with some of the young women who have been part of the experience in the past. Please join us and bring a friend! For more information, contact Marilyn Stoops at 505-265-8358 or mstoops@swcp.com. ~Marilyn Stoops, CWU Communications Committee

Ethos Literacy, a community-based adult education program in Albuquerque, serves adult students who need basic literacy support, as well as ESL students through connecting them to volunteer tutors. Many of our students are immigrants or asylum seekers but many others grew up in New Mexico without the support they need to learn to read, some even graduating high school without this basic skill. We are always looking for volunteers to support our students who are eager to learn and get connected to a tutor. ~Meg Peralta-Silva (formerly with Border Servant Corps), Admin. Assistant, 505-321-9620, https://www.ethosliteracy.org/

Coat Donations (Adult & Child). If you have a new or used coat, please consider donating to the Dignity Mission for asylum seekers. Coats can be old but must be clean! New hats, scarves and gloves are also being collected. All items will be taken to the border on an ongoing basis. Children’s coats are especially needed! Questions, contact Rae and Patrick VanDeMotter, All Saints, 216-633-6362. (They travel to the border once a month to deliver collected items.) ~Pr. Koppel

Lutheran Family Services in Albuquerque contacted the office regarding an urgent need for certain items of furniture: sofas, and dining tables with chairs. They had a large influx of clients (refugees and asylees) at the end of the year and the approx. 30 families are made up of 5-10 people each. Cash donations are also welcome. Call 505-933-7032 and they can arrange for pickup. Address: 230 Truman St NE. ~Deborah Ash

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge to benefit ELCA World Hunger! In honor of ELCA World Hunger’s 50th year in mission and ministry, the 5 synods in ELCA Region 2 are challenging one another to raise money for ELCA World Hunger. The challenge: Participate in some spiritual and physical practices during the 40 days of Lent, 2024. The synod with the most participants wins! More than 820 million people, about 11% of the world’s population today, are hungry. As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond. Individuals can sign up here: https://www.lentenchallenge.org/

Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church Seeks Your Input. The Commission is tasked with collecting information about what is working and what is not working at the church wide, synod, and congregational levels. It will present its findings to the 2025 Churchwide Assembly.
          The Commission wants to hear from you through a brief survey that asks about the purpose of congregations, synods, and the churchwide office. The survey also asks, “What should the future church look like?”
          Along with information received at listening sessions across the church, this survey will inform the commission’s recommendations.
          The survey is available in Spanish and English. More information regarding the survey and the work of CRLC is available here: https://www.elca.org/CRLC. 

Lutheran World Relief: Our 2024 Hunger Challenge to Save Lives has begun. Our goal is to raise $250,000 by March 15 to rush emergency food to your neighbors who need it most. Thank you for extending your caring hand. With your gift today, you are feeding empty tummies and warming weary hearts. Give at: https://lwr.org/.
In Christ always, Ambassador Daniel Speckhard, President & CEO

Updates Beginning 11 February 2024

This Sunday we celebrate Jesus leading Peter, James, and John to the “high” mountain where Jesus appears radiantly transformed. A voice came to them from a cloud declaring, “This is my Son, Jesus whom I love. Listen to him!”
For me, this declaration makes God ‘s wish for hope and healing come alive through Jesus’ teachings. We have included white paper cranes in the banner today. I think of these cranes as another symbol of Christ’s love and care for all his children, as well as a powerful symbol of peace.
“O flock of heavenly cranes
Cover my children with your wings.”
~Jo Browning, for the Visual Choir

Today after the service: When we say "Jesus is Lord" we deny the claims of any other power--be it political, religious, commercial, or otherwise--to appropriate lordship for itself. St. Paul is the first of the New Testament authors to make this claim explicitly, and it was in the context of the Roman Empire, where the Emperor claimed to be the "Lord of lords." Join us in the adult class to explore Paul's extraordinary claim and consider what it means for us. We meet in the Conference Room after the service at 11:15. Everybody is welcome. ~Bob Matthews

Prayer Walk. As we enter the Lenten season, Greater Albuquerque Church of Christ (GACC) and St. Paul are partnering in a Prayer Walk along the hallway leading to Fellowship Hall. You will find a table with sticky notes and pens to write your prayers and post them on the long sheet of contact paper on the wall.
          Our goal is to share our prayers amongst both congregations. You can take a prayer with you to incorporate into your daily prayers and return it the next time. (Or take a picture.) Take a prayer and leave a prayer! Our hope is that our mutual Prayer Walk will reveal to each of us the power of prayer in our daily lives.
James 5:16b – “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
~Pr. Koppel & Karen Waggoner, GACC Board Member 

Harald N. Sorensen Memorial Services will be held at French-Wyoming this Tuesday, February 13 at 2:00pm with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to The New Mexico Heart Association. lnurnment will be at a later date at the Kronborg cemetery of St. John's Lutheran Church in Marquete, NE. See the full obituary at: https://www.frenchfunerals.com/obituaries/harald-sorensen

Ice Cream Social Hour is This Wednesday! Bring your love for ice cream to socialize and laugh. February 14, 1pm at Dairy Queen on Louisiana and Montgomery. We meet for an hour, share stories, laugh at fun things, and just enjoy some down time. Better yet, put the second Wednesday of the month as a constant for ice cream. ~Herb Korff

February’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be health & wellness kits for FaithWorks. They have need of specific items that St. Paul can buy in bulk and have delivered to the church (more cost effective). We need to raise about $300, order the items and then we will, together, pack and deliver these kits on February 25 after service. We are collecting donations for the next 3 weeks to order the kits. These kits run about $20. Please put your donations in the offering, marked for Health & Wellness Kits or see one of us if you have questions. As we continue to work together, we can make a difference! Thank you. ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash, Nancy Jenkins

2023 Giving Statements.  It is once again the time of year when you may want a copy of your giving statement for the 2023 tax year. I am happy to send one to anyone who made a contribution in this past year. All you need to do is request one using my email address (finsec@stpaulabq.org) or text (or call) me on my cell phone (505-363-2284). I will send an electronic copy or a paper copy, whichever you prefer. ~Paula Eglinton

Mark Your Calendars! Easter is early this year, so we have split our Campus Cleanup to accommodate the weather: Saturday, March 23 (day before Palm Sunday) for cleanup inside, and Saturday, April 13 for cleanup outside. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer. ~Deborah Ash

A Thank You to St. Paul:
Dear St. Paul Lutheran Church, thank you for your generous contribution to ABQ FaithWorks. We appreciate you all so much! Thanks again, Abbey Reed, Interim Executive Director

Adopted Families: I received some thank you notes from the counselor and her clients for the Christmas gifts we gave them. Here are some quotes from the clients:
"Thank you, thank you so much for being so kind and generous."
"Thank you so much for the gifts that you gave me I really appreciate it a lot I really hope God blesses you every day."
"Thank you for all you do! I really appreciate it. God bless you all. Thank you for making our children happy this Christmas."
"The only gifts my brother & I got this year were from St Paul. I appreciate so much to you."
"Thank You for all our goodies cause our parents are broke & struggling!"
And a quote from the counselor:
"I do not know how long your folks have been supporting my clients for your Christmas gift-giving. It's been many years now and the results are quite amazing because the families I choose really need the love and support these gifts provide...I thank you from the bottom of my heart for making all this happen. The quilts are my favorite because I am able to tell family members that your quilters pray for families while sewing together these pieces of fabric and ask God for blessings of the receivers!"
Life does go on after Christmas. Our "movers" delivered two donated beds to a family in the International District; the mom was very grateful to have a nice place to sleep for herself and her husband and their kids. And thanks to your generous donations, we were able to pay the $500 deposit for a refugee family from Venezuela so they could move into an apartment. The father is working construction and had enough for the first month's rent, but they needed help with the deposit. Now the father, mother, and two young daughters have a place to call home in this country. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Opportunities to Donate: I was reading that when we give something away (like food, for instance) it activates the brain to release oxytocin. This neuropeptide does all sorts of things like making us feel connected to other humans, even if we don't know them. So, if you want more of the good feelings that come from oxytocin, why not bring a donation for the Storehouse barrels in the Narthex?  Pet food is also welcome.
We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Sign up for Flowers and/or Refreshments for 2024! It’s a new year and updated charts are available in Friendship Corner. We hope you will join us in providing coffeetime treats for after service and take the opportunity to recognize loved ones and events with flower dedications. ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Coro Lux cordially invites you to join us for our first concert of 2024, “Music in the Air.” As Black History Month is upon us, we strive to strengthen our community by honoring the significant contributions that African-American composers and conductors have made to choral music. This concert, taking place at the African-American Performing Arts Center (310 San Pedro NE) seeks to do just that. As we perform music that enlivens the soul and gladdens the heart, we hope you join us for a joyous musical experience, February 18th at 4pm.  Featuring special performances from soloist and UNM professor Stevie Springer and UNM’s Gospel Choir, as well as appearances by our youth chorus, El Faro Youth Chorus, and select group, Coro Lux Chamber Chorus, this concert will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Black History Month, and enjoy a truly multi-cultural musical occasion! Tickets at: https://abqcorolux.org/tickets/ ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

Valentine's Day Raffle! ABQ FaithWorks is selling tickets for their Valentine's Day Raffle. The FaithWorks' staff has collected many exciting and unique prizes donated by local artisans and businesses. You can purchase tickets by contacting the office at 505-457-1728. Tickets are $5.00 each! Drawing will be on February 14. You can also find more information regarding the raffle by visiting their website at www.abqfaithworks.org. Together we are all ABQ FaithWorks! ~Dora Gallegos, Bookkeeper

La Mesa Presbyterian Church Concert Series. We are excited about doing a “new thing” at La Mesa, hosting live concerts of wonderful musicians in our sanctuary. Our first live concert is by the fabulous folk singer, Deidre McCalla, on Sunday, February 25th at 3pm. Read more about her at: https://deidremccalla.com/. To reserve a “free will donation” seat for $20, go to LMPCTICKETS.BPT.ME. Thank you in advance for your support of this new venture. ~Rev. Dr. Brett Mitchell

Coat Donations (Adult & Child). If you have a new or used coat, please consider donating to the Dignity Mission for asylum seekers. Coats can be old but must be clean! New hats, scarves and gloves are also being collected. All items will be taken to the border on an ongoing basis. Children’s coats are especially needed! Questions, contact Rae and Patrick VanDeMotter, All Saints, 216-633-6362. (They travel to the border once a month to deliver collected items.) ~Pr. Koppel

Lutheran Family Services in Albuquerque contacted the office regarding an urgent need for certain items of furniture: sofas, and dining tables with chairs. They had a large influx of clients (refugees and asylees) at the end of the year and the approx. 30 families are made up of 5-10 people each. Cash donations are also welcome. Call 505-933-7032 and they can arrange for pickup. Address: 230 Truman St NE. ~Deborah Ash

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge to benefit ELCA World Hunger! In honor of ELCA World Hunger’s 50th year in mission and ministry, the 5 synods in ELCA Region 2 are challenging one another to raise money for ELCA World Hunger. The challenge: Participate in some spiritual and physical practices during the 40 days of Lent, 2024. The synod with the most participants wins! More than 820 million people, about 11% of the world’s population today, are hungry. As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond. Individuals can sign up here: https://www.lentenchallenge.org/

2024 Legislative Advocacy Days. There is still time to join Kurt and other volunteer LAM-NM advocates to work the Round House by lobbying legislators and potentially offering public comment during committee meetings on priority bills for our advocacy agenda. You are also invited to come and watch the process and activity of our state's legislature. This Tuesday, February 13th is the last opportunity. Please email or call if you plan to be there, to add your name to the list and receive instructions. ~Kurt A. Rager, LAM-NM Director, krager@rmselca.org, 505-269-6470 (c)

The Young Adult Border Immersion, April 24 – 28 is now accepting applications (apply by February 16th)! A collaboration between ELCA Young Adults, AMMPARO, ELCA Witness in Society, and Global Refuge, the border immersion brings young adults to the border to encounter migration issues through a faith-based lens. A $50 deposit and travel to Las Cruces, NM (or El Paso) is required, but programming, accommodations, food, and local transport are covered. Travel assistance is available. Applicants must be 18 - 35 by the time of immersion.
https://yabordertrip.my.canva.site/yabordertrip?mc_cid=9733bc0248&mc_eid=2f360c0226

Updates Beginning 4 February 2024

Today after the service: Did you ever wonder why Paul seems to argue both sides of some questions? In one place he says males and females are equal and in another he says women should be subject to men. In one place he argues that slaves should be freed and in another he says slaves should obey their masters in all things. The answer to this puzzle may surprise you. Come to the Adult Faith Development class this Sunday morning at 11:15 as we examine the multiple "Pauls" we encounter in the New Testament. Grab some refreshments and join us in the Conference Room. ~Bob Matthews

This week: First Tuesday is February 6th, 4:00 pm at SW Grape & Grain at 3401 Candelaria NE.  This is a time to settle down with drink and snacks and catch up on news of any type, which we usually don't have time for on Sunday morning.  Come join us!  Bring a snack to share. ~Nancy Matthews

Harald N. Sorensen Memorial Services will be held at French-Wyoming on Tuesday, February 13 at 2:00pm with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to The New Mexico Heart Association. lnurnment will be at a later date at the Kronborg cemetery of St. John's Lutheran Church in Marquete, NE. See the full obituary at: https://www.frenchfunerals.com/obituaries/harald-sorensen

Ice Cream Social Hour is Coming Up! Bring your love for ice cream to socialize and laugh. February 14, 1pm at Dairy Queen on Louisiana and Montgomery. We meet for an hour, share stories, laugh at fun things, and just enjoy some down time. Better yet, put the second Wednesday of the month as a constant for ice cream. ~Herb Korff

A Thank You to St. Paul:

Dear St. Paul Lutheran Church, thank you for your gift of $500 to Lutheran Disaster Response. Your spirit-filled generosity helps families and communities reeling from disasters. No matter the variety of disaster, no matter the variety of need, your gifts to Lutheran Disaster Response enable people to rebuild their lives and livelihoods now and far into the future. Thank you for your gracious gifts. The glory of God shines through you.
In Christ, Amanda White, Director, Congregational Generosity

Thank You to all who participated by giving money, hygiene items and to all who helped pack the bags for HopeWorks. This week 18 women’s kits and 15 men’s kits were delivered. These kits were full of lovely items, prayers and hope for happier times to those who will be getting them. God’s Work Our Hands is our project-oriented action to reach beyond to those in need. There are lots of ways to get involved, continually help and always give.
          February’s God’s Work Our Hands project will be health & wellness kits for FaithWorks. They have need of specific items that St. Paul can buy in bulk and have delivered to the church (more cost effective). We need to raise about $300, order the items and then we will, together, pack and deliver these kits on February 25 after service. We are collecting donations for the next 3 weeks to order the kits. These kits run about $20. Please put your donations in the offering, marked for Health & Wellness Kits or see one of us if you have questions. As we continue to work together, we can make a difference! Thank you. ~Julie Ambrogi, Deborah Ash, Nancy Jenkins

Mark Your Calendars! Easter is early this year, so we have split our Campus Cleanup to accommodate the weather: Saturday, March 23 (day before Palm Sunday) for cleanup inside, and Saturday, April 13 for cleanup outside. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer. ~Deborah Ash

Sign up for Flowers and/or Refreshments for 2024! It’s a new year and updated charts are available in Friendship Corner. We hope you will join us in providing coffeetime treats for after service and take the opportunity to recognize loved ones and events with flower dedications. ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate: I was reading that when we give something away (like food, for instance) it activates the brain to release oxytocin.  This neuropeptide does all sorts of things like making us feel connected to other humans, even if we don't know them.  So, if you want more of the good feelings that come from oxytocin, why not bring a donation for the Storehouse barrels in the Narthex?  Pet food is also welcome.
          We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

NM Conference of Churches: You are invited to a monthly Service of Lament, Here is Where I Come to Grieve, a time of sharing our grief about violence and war. We will gather for about twenty minutes on the first Thursday of each month at Noon, at the Chapel in the First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust Street NE, 87102 (park on the church’s north side). ~Lynne Hinton, Director

Coat Donations (Adult & Child). If you have a new or used coat, please consider donating to the Dignity Mission for asylum seekers. Coats can be old but must be clean! New hats, scarves and gloves are also being collected. All items will be taken to the border on an ongoing basis. Children’s coats are especially needed! Questions, contact Rae and Patrick VanDeMotter, All Saints, 216-633-6362. (They travel to the border once a month to deliver collected items.) ~Pr. Koppel

Lutheran Family Services in Albuquerque contacted the office this week regarding an urgent need for certain items of furniture: sofas, and dining tables with chairs. They had a large influx of clients (refugees and asylees) at the end of the year and the approx. 30 families are made up of 5-10 people each. Cash donations are also welcome. Call 505-933-7032 and they can arrange for pickup. Address: 230 Truman St NE. ~Deborah Ash

Valentine's Day Raffle! ABQ FaithWorks is now selling raffle tickets for their Valentine's Day Raffle.  The FaithWorks' staff has collected many exciting and unique prizes donated by local artisans and businesses.  You can purchase tickets by contacting the office at 505-457-1728. Raffle tickets are $5.00 a ticket! Drawing will be on February 14. You can also find more information regarding the raffle by visiting their website at www.abqfaithworks.org/blog or visiting their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ABQFaithWorksCollab
Together we are all ABQ FaithWorks! ~Dora Gallegos, Bookkeeper

Don’t Miss Our Next Concert, “Music in the Air.” Hello friends, mark your calendars for Coro Lux’s February concert of Spirituals and Gospel music, "Music In The Air." It will be held on February 18 at 4 pm and will be the first time we'll perform in the lovely African-American Performing Arts Center. Stevie DeJuan Springer will be our featured soloist. Tickets at: https://abqcorolux.org/tickets/ ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

The Young Adult Border Immersion, April 24 – 28 is now accepting applications! A collaboration between ELCA Young Adults, AMMPARO, ELCA Witness in Society, and Global Refuge, the border immersion brings young adults to the border to encounter migration issues through a faith-based lens. A $50 deposit and travel to Las Cruces, NM (or El Paso) is required, but programming, accommodations, food, and local transport are covered. Travel assistance is available. Applicants must be 18 - 35 by the time of immersion. Submit applications by February 16th at:
https://yabordertrip.my.canva.site/yabordertrip?mc_cid=9733bc0248&mc_eid=2f360c0226

Introducing the Bishop Transition Team. The Synod Relations Committee of the ELCA Conference of Bishops determined that it would be beneficial to have a resource to guide the transitional actions and conversations that occur between an outgoing bishop and a bishop elect.

          With this official guideline in hand, we introduce you to the newly formed Bishop Transition Team of the Rocky Mountain Synod. This team of five rostered and lay leaders from our synod were recruited and appointed by the RMS Synod Council to serve through the installation and “settling in” period of the synod bishop to be elected at the 2024 Synod Assembly.
          Their role is distinct and separate from those who are tasked with facilitating the election of our new bishop. It is intended to help provide a more efficient orientation and caring welcome for the new bishop as we begin a new chapter in the history of our synod. The Transition Team members are: Deb Elstad (Chair), Nolan Bly, Dr. Jack Lindsey, Rev. Ruth Ann Loughry, and Rev. Kate Schlechter. 
          We prayerfully invite you as a member of the Rocky Mountain Synod to join them in their efforts and participate when requested as they prepare for a smooth transition and good beginning for the new bishop elect. Email for additional information: Deb Elstad, deb.elstad@gmail.com 

Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge to benefit ELCA World Hunger! In honor of ELCA World Hunger’s 50th year in mission and ministry, the 5 synods in ELCA Region 2 are challenging one another to raise money for ELCA World Hunger. The challenge: Participate in some spiritual and physical practices during the 40 days of Lent, 2024. The synod with the most participants wins!
          More than 820 million people, about 11% of the world’s population today, are hungry. As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond. Individuals can sign up here: https://www.lentenchallenge.org/

 Veteran Servant Corps Project. The November/December 2023 issue of Living Lutheran included an article about Veteran Servant Corps Project (VSCP): https://www.livinglutheran.org/2023/11/serving-those-who-served/. 
          VSCP (a self-funded ministry of the RMS) is currently providing Veteran worship services in Denver, Florence and Rifle (Colorado). Pastors providing these worship services are paid a stipend and mileage by VSCP ($600.00 a month). Your continued donations allow these worship opportunities for Veterans to happen. 
To donate, go to https://www.rmselca.org/, and look for the GIVE button. Thank you! For info, email:  director@veteranservantcorps.org

Updates Beginning 28 January 2024

Today after the service: The Adult Faith Development class continues our study of Paul with a deep dive into the shortest book in the Bible. Join us as we look at Paul's epistle to Philemon. It's a short letter, but it covers a lot of territory. We meet in the Conference Room at 11:15. Grab some refreshments and come on down! ~Bob Matthews

Today after the service: We are assembling the hygiene kits for HopeWorks in the Library. Please come help package all of the items that go into each kit. We have a good assembly line system, and many hands make light work! ~Julie Ambrogi & Nancy Jenkins

First Tuesday will be on Tuesday, February 6th, 4:00 pm at SW Grape & Grain at 3401 Candelaria NE.  This is a time to settle down with drink and snacks and catch up on news of any type, which we usually don't have time for on Sunday morning.  Come join us!  Bring a snack to share. ~Nancy Matthews

Opportunities to Donate: I was reading that when we give something away (like food, for instance) it activates the brain to release oxytocin.  This neuropeptide does all sorts of things like making us feel connected to other humans, even if we don't know them.  So, if you want more of the good feelings that come from oxytocin, why not bring a donation for the Storehouse barrels in the Narthex?  Pet food is also welcome.
          We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Sign up for Flowers and/or Refreshments for 2024! It’s a new year and updated charts are available in Friendship Corner. We hope you will join us in providing coffeetime treats for after service and take the opportunity to recognize loved ones and events with flower dedications. ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Lutheran Family Services in Albuquerque contacted the office this week regarding an urgent need for certain items of furniture: sofas, and dining tables with chairs. They had a large influx of clients (refugees and asylees) at the end of the year and the approx. 30 families are made up of 5-10 people each. Cash donations are also welcome. Call 505-933-7032 and they can arrange for pickup. Address: 230 Truman St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. ~Deborah Ash

Valentine's Day Raffle! ABQ FaithWorks is excited to announce that they are now selling raffle tickets for their Valentine's Day Raffle.  The FaithWorks' staff has collected many exciting and unique prizes donated by local artisans and businesses.  You can purchase tickets by contacting the ABQ FaithWorks office at 505-457-1728 or by contacting staff members, board members, and volunteers.  Raffle tickets are $5.00 a ticket! You can also find more information regarding the raffle by visiting their website at www.abqfaithworks.org/blog or visiting their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ABQFaithWorksCollab
Together we are all ABQ FaithWorks! ~Dora Gallegos, Bookkeeper

Don’t Miss Our Next Concert, “Music in the Air.” Hello friends, mark your calendars for our February concert of Spirituals and Gospel music, "Music In The Air." It will be held on February 18 at 4 pm and will be the first time we'll perform in the lovely African-American Performing Arts Center. Stevie DeJuan Springer will be our featured soloist. Tickets at: https://abqcorolux.org/tickets/ ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

NM Conference of Churches: You are invited to a monthly Service of Lament, Here is Where I Come to Grieve, a time of sharing our grief about violence and war. We will gather for about twenty minutes on the first Thursday of each month at Noon, at the Chapel in the First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust Street NE, 87102 (park on the church’s north side). ~Lynne Hinton, Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

2024 Legislative Advocacy Days: The legislature opened January 16th and will conclude on February 15th. Legislators are currently able to pre-file legislation. This year's session is a short session lasting just 30 days with the primary task being to pass the FY'25 budget for New Mexico. Similar to last year, anticipated new revenue for FY'25 will be nearly $3.5 billion.
          There are a variety of options for you to participate both online and in person. I hope you will also consider joining us on one of our three Lutheran Advocacy Days, January 30th, February 6th, and 13th. This will be an opportunity for you to join us in person at the Roundhouse, to attend committee meetings, visit legislators’ offices, and speak out on priority legislation for LAM-NM. (Note: A copy of the LAM-NM 2024 Advocacy Agenda is posted in the Welcome Center.)

Key Areas of Focus:
Affordable Housing & Homelessness                      Care of Creation      
Criminal Justice          Family-Sustaining Income  Good Governance
Health Care                 Hunger                                  Tax Policy                             

Additional Special Days this week! You are invited to participate with some of our key partner organizations and coalitions on special days of emphasis:
·        January 25th: New Mexico Food & Farms Day
·        January 26th: New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness Lobby Day (Contact Sonia Salazar at Sonia-s@nmceh.org by January 16th.)
May the peace of Christ be with you. ~Kurt Rager, Director

Update from the Bishop Election Committee: Thank you to everyone who suggested nominees for the election at the Assembly in April. Those suggested by the community in this way have been contacted by the Bishop Election Committee and will have the opportunity to fill out a biographical form if they are open to discerning a call as bishop.
          Any Word and Sacrament Minister who is open to being nominated for bishop may complete and submit biographical information by filling out a form on the synod website January 22-March 1. Anyone who submits biographical information must still be nominated on the first ballot at the Synod Assembly to be considered. Biographical forms received from all potential nominees will be available on the synod website after March 1.
          More information - including a helpful timeline and the form to self-nominate -- is available on the RMS website https://www.rmselca.org/2024-synod-assembly-bishop-election

Updates Beginning 21 January 2024

Today after the service: The adult class continues its study of the life and writings of St. Paul (and of others claiming to be St. Paul!). Do you find Paul to be appealing or appalling? Bring your questions and curiosity about this most towering figure in the history of Christianity and we'll look for answers together. We meet in the Conference Room at 11:15. Grab some refreshments and come join us! ~Bob Matthews

Our next God’s Work Our Hands Project: Hygiene Kits for HopeWorks. We are collecting items now through Sunday, January 28, when we will assemble the kits after service in Fellowship Hall. A collection box is in the Welcome Center with copies of the list of items needed. The kits run approximately $20 each if you wish to make a donation toward the project. Please note “Hygiene Kits” and place in the offering basket. We hope to make 50 kits, 25 each men’s & women’s, as we did Rally Sunday. Thank you for all of the donations thus far! ~Julie Ambrogi & Nancy Jenkins

New socks
New underwear
Bar soap (travel size)
Feminine products
Deodorant (travel size)
Mini shampoo
Mini conditioner
Wet wipes
Chap stick
Razors
Lotion (travel size) 

Thank Yous to St. Paul:

Thank you for your support of Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains! Marge Hatton, CFRE, VP Resource Development

Thank you for your support of Albuquerque Interfaith in their community organizing to make Albuquerque and New Mexico a better place for all who live here. Your generous support contributes to improving our schools, our behavioral health services, and public safety. Sincerely, Bob Edgar, Treasurer

On behalf of HopeWorks, thank you so much for your dedicated mission partnership during the past calendar year as a member of the Circle of Hope. Your generosity paves a welcoming path for our clients, and your committed giving provides lighting for our agency’s future. Gratefully, Leon S. Dixon Jr. CEO

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

The new Rocky Mountain Synod Women’s Organization Newsletter is posted in the Welcome Center. Lots of photos from the Just Love Gathering in Phoenix and the RMSWO Fall Gathering in Colorado! ~Deborah Ash

Opportunities to Donate: I was reading that when we give something away (like food, for instance) it activates the brain to release oxytocin.  This neuropeptide does all sorts of things like making us feel connected to other humans, even if we don't know them.  So, if you want more of the good feelings that come from oxytocin, why not bring a donation for the Storehouse barrels in the Narthex?  Pet food is also welcome.
          We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

Valentine's Day Raffle! ABQ FaithWorks is excited to announce that they are now selling raffle tickets for their Valentine's Day Raffle.  The FaithWorks' staff has collected many exciting and unique prizes donated by local artisans and businesses.  You can purchase tickets by contacting the ABQ FaithWorks office at 505-457-1728 or by contacting staff members, board members, and volunteers.  Raffle tickets are $5.00 a ticket! You can also find more information regarding the raffle by visiting their website at www.abqfaithworks.org/blog ~Dora Gallegos, Bookkeeper

Don’t Miss Our Next Concert, “Music in the Air.” Hello friends, mark your calendars for our February concert of Spirituals and Gospel music, "Music In The Air." It will be held on February 18 at 4 pm and will be the first time we'll perform in the lovely African-American Performing Arts Center. Stevie DeJuan Springer will be our featured soloist. Tickets at: https://abqcorolux.org/tickets/ ~Brad Ellingboe, Artistic Director

NM Conference of Churches: You are invited to a monthly Service of Lament, Here is Where I Come to Grieve, a time of sharing our grief about violence and war. We will gather for about twenty minutes on the first Thursday of each month at Noon, at the Chapel in the First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust Street NE, 87102 (park on the church’s north side). ~Lynne Hinton, Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-New Mexico: As many of you know, our 2024 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon is scheduled for January 23. Getting registration into your hands for this annual event should have happened already. Unfortunately, we unexpectedly lost our planned space for this year's event, forcing us to scramble a bit over the last several weeks to secure new venues. While our hope of having both events at the same location was no longer possible, we are quite happy with the resulting solution.
          We are very grateful that First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe, a long-time member of our advocating congregations group, quickly stepped forward to host the morning Issue Briefing. It took longer, but we have secured the La Posada de Santa Fe Hotel for the Bishop's Luncheon. Here is the schedule for the day:

• 8:45-9:15 a.m. Check-in, refreshments, and fellowship time at First Presbyterian

• 9:15 a.m. Welcome and opening reflection

• 9:30 a.m. Guest Speakers

• 11:00 a.m. Bishop Jim Gonia

• 11:15 a.m. Legislative Issue Briefing

• Noon - 12:15 p.m. Arrive at La Posada

• 12:30 p.m. Bishop's Luncheon Begins

• 2:00 p.m. Luncheon concludes

The registration cost per person remains the same as last year at $40 per person. However, the week prior to the event and beginning on January 16th, the registration cost is $45 per person. Please register and buy your tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-legislative-issue-briefing-and-bishops-luncheon-tickets-781183539997?aff=oddtdtcreator
(Please note, this is not a fund-raiser as the registration charge simply covers the anticipated cost for the luncheon.)
          These events are always special and well worth your attendance. This year's events will however be the final ones for our current Bishop, Jim Gonia. Bishop Gonia has been a true champion of our synod's state-level advocacy work here in New Mexico as well as in Colorado and Utah. I hope you will join us in expressing our gratitude for his support and involvement over the last 12 years at the Luncheon. I am excited and truly looking forward to seeing you at the 2024 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon!

2024 Legislative Advocacy Days: Ready or not, the Second Session of the 56th Legislature gets underway next week. The legislature opens at noon on Tuesday, January 16th, and will conclude at noon on February 15th. Legislators are currently able to pre-file legislation. This year's session is a short session lasting just 30 days with the primary task being to pass the FY'25 budget for New Mexico. Similar to last year, anticipated new revenue for FY'25 will be nearly $3.5 billion.
          There are a variety of options for you to participate both online and in person. I hope you will also consider joining us on one of our three Lutheran Advocacy Days, January 30th, February 6th, and 13th. This will be an opportunity for you to join us in person at the Roundhouse, to attend committee meetings, visit legislators’ offices, and speak out on priority legislation for LAM-NM. (Note: A copy of the LAM-NM 2024 Advocacy Agenda is posted in the Welcome Center.)

Key Areas of Focus:
Affordable Housing & Homelessness                      Care of Creation
Criminal Justice          Family-Sustaining Income  Good Governance
Health Care                 Hunger                                  Tax Policy                             

Additional Special Days! You are invited to participate with some of our key partner organizations and coalitions on special days of emphasis:
·        January 25th: New Mexico Food & Farms Day
·        January 26th: New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness Lobby Day (Contact Sonia Salazar at Sonia-s@nmceh.org by January 16th.)
May the peace of Christ be with you. ~Kurt Rager, Director

Update from the Bishop Election Committee: Thank you to everyone who suggested nominees for the election at the Assembly in April. Those suggested by the community in this way have been contacted by the Bishop Election Committee and will have the opportunity to fill out a biographical form if they are open to discerning a call as bishop.
          Any Word and Sacrament Minister who is open to being nominated for bishop may complete and submit biographical information by filling out a form on the synod website January 22-March 1. Anyone who submits biographical information must still be nominated on the first ballot at the Synod Assembly to be considered. Biographical forms received from all potential nominees will be available on the synod website after March 1.
          More information - including a helpful timeline and the form to self-nominate -- is available on the RMS website https://www.rmselca.org/2024-synod-assembly-bishop-election

Updates Beginning 14 January 2024

Today after the service: The adult class continues its study of the life and writings of St. Paul (and of others claiming to be St. Paul!). Do you find Paul to be appealing or appalling? Bring your questions and curiosity about this most towering figure in the history of Christianity and we'll look for answers together. We meet in the Conference Room at 11:15. Grab some refreshments and come join us! ~Bob Matthews

Today at Noon: St. Paul is hosting the Love God Love Neighbor ABQ Youth Collaborative for a PB&J lunch bar before the group visits Beehive Homes and therapy dogs in action! Please welcome the youth as they come in midday. ~Pr. Koppel

Thank Yous to St. Paul:

Dear St. Paul Lutheran, thank you for your generous gift of $250! It will be put to good use supporting the Reconciling in Christ Program. Blessings, Aubrey Thonvold, Executive Director, Reconciling Works: Lutherans for Full Participation

Thank you, St. Paul, for donating pet supplies in addition to other foodstuffs. The third Friday, when pet food is distributed, is the busiest day each month! ~Rob, Warehouse Driver, The Storehouse

Dear St. Paul Lutheran Community, we are so grateful for your gift of $1,700! It is helping us feed many families. Your support allows us to honor our commitment to our community and ensure that families facing food insecurity always have a place to turn. Happy New Year! Amy Lavender, VP of Development, The Storehouse of New Mexico

Our next God’s Work Our Hands Project: Hygiene Kits for HopeWorks. We are collecting items now through Sunday, January 28, when we will assemble the kits after service in Fellowship Hall. A collection box is in the Welcome Center with copies of the list of items needed. The kits run approximately $20 each if you wish to make a donation toward the project. Please note “Hygiene Kits” and place in the offering basket. We hope to make 50 kits, 25 each men’s and women’s, as we did on Rally Sunday. Thank you! ~Julie Ambrogi & Nancy Jenkins

Hygiene Kits:

• New socks

• New underwear

• Bar soap (travel size)

• Feminine products

• Deodorant (travel size)

• Mini shampoo

• Mini conditioner

• Wet wipes

• Chap stick  

• Razors

• Lotion (travel size)

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate: Food is always needed for people and pets. The Storehouse barrels are in the Narthex. Any sort of dry goods is welcome.
We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Men’s and Women’s Hygiene Kits are available in the Office if you would like to keep one or two in your car to share with a neighbor in need. ~Deborah Ash

From Local Partner Organizations

Next Sunday:

NM Conference of Churches: You are invited to a monthly Service of Lament, Here is Where I Come to Grieve, a time of sharing our grief about violence and war. We will gather for about twenty minutes on the first Thursday of each month at Noon, at the Chapel in the First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust Street NE, 87102 (park on the church’s north side). ~Lynne Hinton, Director

ABQ FaithWorks is excited to launch its Valentine's Day Raffle! The FaithWorks' staff has collected many exciting and unique prizes donated by local artisans and businesses.  Starting on January 15th, you can purchase tickets by contacting the ABQ FaithWorks office at 505-457-1728 or by contacting staff members, board members, and volunteers.  Raffle tickets are $5.00 a ticket or 3 tickets for $10.00.  We will have more information on the raffle prizes and donors, in the days to come on our website: https://www.abqfaithworks.org/blog. Thank you for your support! ~Dora Gallegos, Bookkeeper

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-New Mexico: As many of you know, our 2024 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon is scheduled for January 23. Getting registration into your hands for this annual event should have happened already. Unfortunately, we unexpectedly lost our planned space for this year's event, forcing us to scramble a bit over the last several weeks to secure new venues. While our hope of having both events at the same location was no longer possible, we are quite happy with the resulting solution.
          We are very grateful that First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe, a long-time member of our advocating congregations group, quickly stepped forward to host the morning Issue Briefing. It took longer, but we have secured the La Posada de Santa Fe Hotel for the Bishop's Luncheon. Here is the schedule for the day:

• 8:45-9:15 a.m. Check-in, refreshments, and fellowship time at First Presbyterian

• 9:15 a.m. Welcome and opening reflection

• 9:30 a.m. Guest Speakers

• 11:00 a.m. Bishop Jim Gonia

• 11:15 a.m. Legislative Issue Briefing

• Noon - 12:15 p.m. Arrive at La Posada

• 12:30 p.m. Bishop's Luncheon Begins

• 2:00 p.m. Luncheon concludes

The registration cost per person remains the same as last year at $40 per person. However, the week prior to the event and beginning on January 16th, the registration cost is $45 per person. Please register and buy your tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-legislative-issue-briefing-and-bishops-luncheon-tickets-781183539997?aff=oddtdtcreator
(Please note, this is not a fund-raiser as the registration charge simply covers the anticipated cost for the luncheon.)
          These events are always special and well worth your attendance. This year's events will however be the final ones for our current Bishop, Jim Gonia. Bishop Gonia has been a true champion of our synod's state-level advocacy work here in New Mexico as well as in Colorado and Utah. I hope you will join us in expressing our gratitude for his support and involvement over the last 12 years at the Luncheon. I am excited and truly looking forward to seeing you at the 2024 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon!  

2024 Legislative Advocacy Days: Ready or not, the Second Session of the 56th Legislature gets underway next week. The legislature opens at noon on Tuesday, January 16th, and will conclude at noon on February 15th. Legislators are currently able to pre-file legislation. This year's session is a short session lasting just 30 days with the primary task being to pass the FY'25 budget for New Mexico. Similar to last year, anticipated new revenue for FY'25 will be nearly $3.5 billion.
          There are a variety of options for you to participate both online and in person. I hope you will also consider joining us on one of our three Lutheran Advocacy Days, January 30th, February 6th, and 13th. This will be an opportunity for you to join us in person at the Roundhouse, to attend committee meetings, visit legislators’ offices, and speak out on priority legislation for LAM-NM. (Note: A copy of the LAM-NM 2024 Advocacy Agenda is posted in the Welcome Center.)
Key Areas of Focus:
Affordable Housing & Homelessness   Care of Creation
Criminal Justice                                       Family-Sustaining Income
Health Care                Hunger               Tax Policy                               

Additional Special Days! You are invited to participate with some of our key partner organizations and coalitions on special days of emphasis:

• January 18th: Dignity Not Detention Day of Action (Register at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf2CSwY-BSADE7xCu1KcDj2RFTThNKCTmbZQ70Ly8z0wPO80w/viewform)

• January 25th: New Mexico Food & Farms Day

• January 26th: New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness Lobby Day (Contact Sonia Salazar at Sonia-s@nmceh.org by January 16th.)

May the peace of Christ be with you. ~Kurt Rager, Director

It is with gratitude for your partnership that we share with you our new name: Global Refuge. This name embodies the essence of our work, casting a spotlight on the diverse communities we serve and emphasizing the expansive nature of our God-given mission. We believe that this new identity will provide greater visibility to the people we serve and that it will act as a beacon of hope and welcome on a global scale.
          Our organization has always been molded by our Lutheran DNA, and we are proud to say that our faith remains steadfast in shaping our work of welcome. Our relationships with Lutheran communities, congregations, and other ecumenical and interfaith partners are essential, and they will continue to be an integral part of who we are.
          For more information, read the full press release at: https://files.constantcontact.com/bbca2826001/07b930a0-ffe0-4c09-ae1a-cacb9da1df5b.pdf. f you have any questions, we encourage you to reach out to us: workofwelcome@globalrefuge.org 

The ELCA starts the new year with a newly formed Vision team. The Rev. Louise Johnson is now the Executive for Vision, a new position in the churchwide organization. Johnson will lead a small team in a new effort that will emanate from the ELCA's vision, purpose, goal, and priorities, which call for the church to work together to share the difference God's grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation.
          "The Spirit is alive and at work in our church, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ in word and deed. But there are still so many who have not experienced the difference God's love in Christ makes," stated Johnson. "We are embarking on a journey with our church to discover new ways to tell the old, old story to a world longing to hear. I am grateful and humbled to lead this team as we listen for the leading of God, who is "about to do a new thing (Isaiah 43:19)."
          "The churchwide organization continues to build teams and strategies that seek to foster and support our shared mission of proclaiming the good news of God's love in Christ. Inspired by a vision of the world being more and more aware that we are caught in the grip of this saving love, we are determined to be mutually supportive and increasingly innovative in the ways that we work together as faithful partners throughout the ELCA," said the Rev. Michael Burk, Presiding Bishop Pro Tem. https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8213

Updates Beginning 7 January 2024

Today: Adult Faith Development invites you to the kick-off of a multi-week series devoted to the study of our "patron saint" St. Paul. Paul is one of the most beloved and, at the same time, most controversial figures in Christian history. We'll have the chance to look into both sides of his legacy. You might be surprised. Begin your search for Paul at 11:15 this Sunday morning in the Conference room. ~Bob Matthews

Next Sunday, 14 Jan, St. Paul is hosting the Love God Love Neighbor ABQ Youth Collaborative for a PB&J lunch bar before the group visits Beehive Homes and therapy dogs in action! We anticipate 20 or so. If you would like to donate sandwich fixings, chips, fruit, or beverages, please let the Office know. ~Pr. Koppel

Thank you to those who helped with ALL of the big and small details that helped make this year's Christmas Eve service on the Labyrinth warm, welcoming, and meaningful! ~Pr. Koppel

Men’s and Women’s Hygiene Kits are available in the Office if you would like to keep one or two in your car to share with a neighbor in need. ~Deborah Ash

Thank you to all who helped with preparation and donations for the Friends Feeding Friends First Thursday meal at HopeWorks! This was our first God’s Work Our Hands (GWOH) service project for 2024. We will start collecting for our next GWOH service project shortly, which will be kits for FaithWorks; kits will run approximately $20 each.  Look for a list of items and a sample in the Welcome Center next week, or you can make a donation.  Kit assembly will be after service on January 28th. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

First Quarter 2024 Devotionals are now available in the Welcome Center. ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Opportunities to Donate: Food is always needed for people and pets. The Storehouse barrels are in the Narthex. Any sort of dry goods is welcome.
          We collect aluminum so our children can spend that money on ministries that support families around the world. Place your donations in the blue bin in Friendship Corner.
We also collect the pop-tops from all aluminum cans for Ronald McDonald House. Place your donation in the basket under the clock in the office. Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

 Today! Albuquerque Chamber Soloists Concert at St. Paul, 2pm: Program includes Ingolf Dahl: Concerto a Tre; Mozart: Quintet for Clarinet and Strings, K. 581; and Shostakovich: Quintet for Piano and Strings in g minor, op. 57. Musicians are: Jeffrey Brooks, clarinet; Judith Gordon, piano; Ruxandra Marquardt, Megan Holland,  violins; Laura Chang, violas; James Holland, cello. There is a pre-concert talk starting at 1:15 in Fellowship Hall. ~James Holland, Director

This Saturday, 13 Jan, St. Paul is hosting Church Women United for their annual retreat here at St. Paul. The theme will be “Reset, Refresh, Restore” and will be led by Susan Brumbaugh, a licensed mental health counselor.  Susan will focus on reflection, acceptance, and intentionality. Coffee fellowship (hosted by St. Paul Hospitality) will begin at 9:30am and the retreat will be until 12:00.  Please join us and bring a friend!  For more information, contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-884-2467. ~Marilyn Stoops, CWU Communications Committee

NM Conference of Churches: You are invited to a (now) monthly Service of Lament, Here is Where I Come to Grieve, a time of sharing our grief about violence and war. We will gather for about twenty minutes on the first Thursday of each month at Noon, at the Chapel in the First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust Street NE, 87102 (park on the church’s north side). ~Lynne Hinton, Director

ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative is looking for an Executive Director! If you or someone you know might be that dynamic, big hearted individual, go to this link to find out more about the organization, the position and how to apply!  https://www.abqfaithworks.org/blog ~Dora Gallegos, Bookkeeper

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-New Mexico: As many of you know, our 2024 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon is scheduled for January 23. Getting registration into your hands for this annual event should have happened already. Unfortunately, we unexpectedly lost our planned space for this year's event, forcing us to scramble a bit over the last several weeks to secure new venues. While our hope of having both events at the same location was no longer possible, we are quite happy with the resulting solution.
          We are very grateful that First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe, a long-time member of our advocating congregations group, quickly stepped forward to host the morning Issue Briefing. It took longer, but we have secured the La Posada de Santa Fe Hotel for the Bishop's Luncheon. Here is the schedule for the day:

• 8:45-9:15 a.m. Check-in, refreshments, and fellowship time at First Presbyterian

• 9:15 a.m. Welcome and opening reflection

• 9:30 a.m. Guest Speakers

• 11:00 a.m. Bishop Jim Gonia

• 11:15 a.m. Legislative Issue Briefing

• Noon - 12:15 p.m. Arrive at La Posada

• 12:30 p.m. Bishop's Luncheon Begins

• 2:00 p.m. Luncheon concludes

The registration cost per person remains the same as last year at $40 per person. However, the week prior to the event and beginning on January 16th, the registration cost is $45 per person. Please register and buy your tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-legislative-issue-briefing-and-bishops-luncheon-tickets-781183539997?aff=oddtdtcreator
(Please note, this is not a fund-raiser as the registration charge simply covers the anticipated cost for the luncheon.)
          These events are always special and well worth your attendance. This year's events will however be the final ones for our current Bishop, Jim Gonia. Bishop Gonia has been a true champion of our synod's state-level advocacy work here in New Mexico as well as in Colorado and Utah. I hope you will join us in expressing our gratitude for his support and involvement over the last 12 years at the Luncheon. I am excited and truly looking forward to seeing you at the 2024 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon!

2024 Legislative Advocacy Days: LAM-NM is planning a day each week for you to join Kurt and other volunteer LAM-NM advocates to work the Round House by lobbying legislators and potentially offering public comment during committee meetings on priority bills for our advocacy agenda. Please join us on the three consecutive Tuesdays of January 30th, February 6th, and 13th. May the peace of Christ be with you. ~Kurt Rager, Director

The ELCA starts the new year with a newly formed Vision team. The ELCA recently announced the Rev. Louise Johnson, Executive for Administration, has accepted the Executive for Vision, a new position in the churchwide organization.
          Starting in January 2024, Johnson will lead a small team in a new effort that will emanate from the ELCA's vision, purpose, goal, and priorities, which call for the church to work together to share the difference God's grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation.
          "The Spirit is alive and at work in our church, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ in word and deed. But there are still so many who have not experienced the difference God's love in Christ makes," stated Johnson. "We are embarking on a journey with our church to discover new ways to tell the old, old story to a world longing to hear. I am grateful and humbled to lead this team as we listen for the leading of God, who is "about to do a new thing (Isaiah 43:19)."
          "The churchwide organization continues to build teams and strategies that seek to foster and support our shared mission of proclaiming the good news of God's love in Christ. Inspired by a vision of the world being more and more aware that we are caught in the grip of this saving love, we are determined to be mutually supportive and increasingly innovative in the ways that we work together as faithful partners throughout the ELCA," said the Rev. Michael Burk, Presiding Bishop Pro Tem. https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8213

Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains had a great year! We are proud to highlight some of our work in 2023.
We have helped resettle nearly 300 refugees from around the world over the last year from over a dozen different countries. Thanks to all of the wonderful donors and volunteers who have supported our efforts.
Our Reception and Placement (R&P) team is directly responsible for new refugee arrivals as soon as they step off the plane at the Sunport. R&P provides vital services such as cultural orientation, in-home visits, securing access to community resources, and setting up apartments for our new families. It assists refugees in securing affordable housing before they first arrive, despite having no record of employment or credit history. R&P team members and case managers remain an important point of contact for these new families months and even years after arrival to the U.S.
R&P successfully secured housing in Albuquerque for dozens of new families over the last year, and the numbers will only keep growing!
          Cash donations go a long way towards helping a refugee family find their footing. Many of our new families struggle to manage expenses on such a tight and limited budget.
Apartment setups are often a collaboration between R&P team members and volunteers to move supplies into a family’s first apartment before they move in. This part of the process requires the most time and energy, so any help is appreciated!
          Furniture donations are used to furnish a new family’s apartment. This allows more funds out of a family’s initial 90-day budget to go back to them instead of having to be spent on beds, bed frames, kitchen items, etc. https://www.lfsrm.org/Basket-Bins-Donations-for-Refugees
Our Education Department has worked relentlessly to ensure every refugee child in Albuquerque is enrolled in school immediately after arrival. Over the last year, we enrolled over 100 students into Albuquerque Public Schools, and nearly 30 participants in our youth mentoring program.
Tutors are essential in helping both refugee children and adults become confident in their English-speaking abilities and find greater success in the classroom.
Our Employment Services have worked diligently this year to help refugees find ‘basic survival’ jobs to build their skills and find better work after getting back on their feet. They are a vital part of the workforce here in Albuquerque. You may even meet them working at local businesses!
          Career mentors go a long way in helping our clients get accustomed to the American workforce and set both short- and long-term goals.
LFSRM is constantly working to put our refugee families on the road to economic prosperity. We offer Individual Development Accounts (IDA) where refugee clients can grow their savings in preparation to purchase a home, tuition, a business asset, or a vehicle. Through this program, LFSRM has added over $1 million in assets to the local economy since 2021!
Business mentors can make an incredible difference in helping new refugee-owned businesses establish themselves. If you have any business experience at all and would like to work with a refugee entrepreneur, feel free to reach out! ~Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains, 230 Truman Street, NE, 87108, 505.933.7032