Reformation Sunday
Our Reformation Sunday service is based on Martin Luther's German Mass (Deutsche Messe), which he first published in the winter of 1526. Luther's desire for this worship was twofold: first, a worship service in the vernacular (German rather than Latin), and second, a simple service rooted in the Word and built around the catechism. Parts of the liturgy will be a refresher of Luther's Small Catechism for those of us who were confirmed a long time ago. The worship service will give those preparing to begin Confirmation Bootcamp with Pastor Eric a preview of some of what they will discuss in their sessions together.
The liturgy that we will experience Sunday is not like the "Lutheran" liturgy we are accustomed to. In fact, Luther's Deutsche Messe contrasted with his own Latin mass, formula missae, which was published in 1523. Much has changed in the 500+ years since the Reformation, including our liturgical practices, which are now more ecumenical than "traditionally" Lutheran in many ways. The hymns we will sing on Sunday are inspired by Lutheran music history, and it wouldn't be Reformation Sunday unless we sang the Lutheran Anthem A Mighty Fortress Is Our God (Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott).
On Reformation Sunday, Hope Lutheran Church in Clinton, Maryland, will join us for worship. Reverend Eric Faret of Hope Lutheran Church will preside over the table, and Reverend Eric Randolph will preach. Members are invited to bring a dish to pass for the fellowship that will take place after worship. Worship begins at 10:00 a.m. both in-person and online at fb.com/myplcmd/live
Strategic Planning Continues
To (re)discover where the Holy Spirit is directing us to serve, Pastor Eric has been leading your congregation council in strategic planning meetings to help define the mission and ministry of Peace Lutheran Church. The council's initial survey results informed the development of a mission statement and values statement that may now be used to direct future programmatic and mission planning.
Mission Statement: Rooted in Christ's compassion, we strive to walk along side and stand with the poor and powerless.
Values Statement: With trust in God to bring fulfillment to our lives: We believe that we are all called to accompany and connect with our neighbors in service to God. We accept and affirm each person, reflecting the diversity of God’s human creation, as our way of living into God’s love and compassion. We strive to be like Jesus by advocating for justice and fairness for all. We encourage and support all believers and seekers to move forward with joy, hope, and gratitude to nurture our spirituality, accept God’s gift of love, grace, and forgiveness, and be a healing presence in this world.
The mission and vision statements align with the work done by the Reconciling In Christ team when writing Peace Lutheran Church's welcome statement:
In response to God’s unconditional love for all people, we at Peace Lutheran Church affirm that every person is a child of God. All believers and seekers regardless of your age, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, relationship status, abilities or economic circumstance are a part of the body of Christ. We recognize that there are differences among us and believe that we can love alike even though we may not always think alike. We invite you to join us in our faith journey toward greater love and understanding.
Now, we have one more survey for the congregation to help council with the last stage of the strategic planning process. Before December 9, 2022, we would appreciate it if you could take a few minutes to fill out this survey. The survey can be completed here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7DXMRGS
Peace Quilters Update
You are invited to join Peace Quilters as we make quilts for world wide distribution through Lutheran World Relief. We also make fleece Chemo hats that are given to patients in oncology, radiation and hospital infusion centers.
During the months of November, December and January we will meet on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Monday and Thursday mornings from 9-11.
For more information contact Leah at quilters@myplc.org.
All are welcomed! No experience needed!
Judy Rudolf Memorial Service
It is with profound sadness, we announce the passing of our sister in Christ, Judy Rudolf, on Sunday, October 23.
In sure and certain hope of the resurrection to everlasting life, we commend her to Almighty God, and pray for peace and comfort for her beloved husband, Charlie, and all who grieve her death.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, St. Charles, Maryland, with catered repast to follow in the fellowship hall. Members and friends at Peace Lutheran Church are invited to bring salads or deserts.
Judy was a devoted member of the Peace Lutheran Church community and a tireless advocate for Elsie's Food Pantry. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be sent to Peace Lutheran Church for the pantry.
Worship & Music Update
Friends, we are grateful for all who are taking a role in providing meaningful worship here at Peace. Below are some areas where we need more help as we step up to support worship at Peace:
1. Usher:
We need to have 2 people to cover this position as we resume collection of the Offering and distribution of Communion at the rail. Young members 14 and older might also enjoy this type of worship support. Training can be done expeditiously following any worship service. Just let us know.
2. Communion Assistants:
There are 3 people involved...
PERSON 1: Pours the wine into the small cups the members bring with them to the rail.
PERSON 2: Follows the wine pourer with grape juice already poured in cups for those at the rail with no cup.
PERSON 3:Follows the grape juice person to collect all communicants' used cups in the basket provided.
3. Children's Sermon:
Generally, Pastor Eric does them. There are some of you who have stepped up in the past. The scripture readings will always be shared with you in the week before you serve. There are also sources in Sundays & Seasons online. Pastor Eric will have guidance when we need help with developing an idea. Sermons are 3-5 minutes in duration.
4. Acolytes:
From 8 years old, onward. We like to have 2 each Sunday. Parents are encouraged to serve with their child, too. Training can be done expeditiously following any worship service. Just let us know.
5. Altar Care: This team needs a few more member support folks. On any Sunday following worship, we can show you what is involved in this meaningful pre-worship preparation.
6. Multimedia: This is a rewarding opportunity for any person who is comfortable with computers, digital presentation and who can follow the worship bulletin that shows on the monitor each Sunday. As with the other opportunities, we can arrange for a demonstration so that you know what is involved in this rewarding task. The members of the team would benefit greatly from the addition of even 1 more person.
Prayerfully consider how you can step into worship service support in some of these areas occasionally. The Worship Team can help you learn what to do before you make a decision.
Peace,
Peace Lutheran Worship and Music Team
New Signage and Seating Areas
As you enter the narthex and lobby, you'll notice that we've created cozy seating areas for people to gather for conversation, prayer, or simply waiting. The youth room sofas are currently being repurposed in those areas, while the day care center occupies the youth room and adjacent classroom. You'll also notice new signage on the exterior doors and standing signs welcoming people into the narthex.
Pastor's Schedule
Pastor Eric will be out of the office this week to attend to a family emergency. He will be at worship Sunday, October 30, and Sunday, November 2.
Building Puentes Special Collection
The devastation is severe and the need is real throughout Puerto Rico and the Caribbean following this summer's storms. On Reformation Sunday, you are invited to make a special offering to the Building Puentes fund of the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. and the Delaware-Maryland Synods to support the Caribbean synod in their time of need. The Building Puentes Fund provides immediate financial aid to 30+ rostered leaders in the Caribbean synod as they struggle to rebuild. Your special gift can be made through the synod's website at www.metrodcelca.org/give.
Confirmation Bootcamp!
Pastor Eric is looking forward to the beginning of Confirmation Bootcamp on Sunday, November 6, at 12:00 p.m. Youth in grades 6-12 who have not been confirmed are invited to attend Confirmation Bootcamp, which will run from November to Pentecost Sunday on a scheduled basis. Pastor Eric's approach to confirmation is straightforward: make it enjoyable! Confirmation Bootcamp is divided into two 6-week blocks of in-person meetings, one 3-week block of in-person meetings, and two 5-week blocks of student self-study and service. The Bootcamp approach focuses on the essential aspects of our common Christian faith and Lutheranism. Bootcamp provides students with the opportunity to learn, share, and discern their faith. Email Pastor Eric for more information.
Adult Inquiry Sessions (Formerly known as "New Member Classes")
Pastor Eric will be hosting a series of adult inquiry sessions from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 5, 12, and 19. Adults interested in learning more about Peace Lutheran Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and the church today are welcome to attend the inquiry sessions. Attending the inquiry sessions does not imply a commitment to join Peace. Pastor Eric will also be available for one-on-one conversations.
Meeting ID: 840 1904 9484
*Zoom link will be used for all three sessions