The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches

The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches

Downtown Issue # 17 – September, 2012

Posted by admin on September 29, 2012

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #17– September, 2012

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT
  4. OUR SIXTH GATHERING: BUILD UP THE WALLS!
  5. NOTED CELEBRATIONS
  6. A WORD ABOUT LONGEVITY
  7. IDEAS FOR MISSION EXPANSION
  8. FOCUS ON CHICAGO, IL
  9. FOCUS ON OCALA, FL
  10. SPOTLIGHT ON WILLISTON, ND
  11. SPOTLIGHT ON MUSKOGEE, OK
  12. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches around our great world (yes, we have “international members” not just in the United States, but also in Canada and even Hungary!)  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be sent to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT

If you’ve not yet added the Association to receive your weekly or monthly newsletters, won’t you please do so today?  It is guaranteed that every newsletter is indeed read!  If your congregation publishes a printed newsletter, would you please add us to your mailing list?  Please address them to Rev. Christopher Schaar, Historic First Lutheran, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA   91104-4317.  If your congregation publishes an electronic newsletter, would you please add us to your e-dis list?  Please send them to DowntownChurches@aol.com. If your e-news requires an email address to subscribe to receive your newsletter, please send notice of that fact to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will subscribe.


OUR SIXTH GATHERING: BUILD UP THE WALLS!

The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches will hold its 6th Gathering at Historic Grace Lutheran, Springfield, IL Friday 12 October through Sunday 14 October 2012. Speakers include Bishop Stephen Bouman from the ELCA Churchwide Offices (“The Downtown Church: From the Kitchen Table to the Altar to the Tables of the World” and “The Downtown Church on Mars Hill”) and Reverend Carlos Hernandez from the LCMS International Center (“Planting Gospel Seeds While Serving Human Needs”).

Gathering details and registration packets were mailed in July.  In case you somehow missed the packet, it can be downloaded at www.downtownlutheranchurches.org.  Registration deadline for the gathering is 1 October. Hotel block deadline is 21 September. More information can be obtained from DowntownChurches@aol.com .


NOTED CELEBRATIONS

First Lutheran Church in downtown Long Beach, CA recently recognized the 25th Anniversary of Dr. Jerry Dahlin as church organist.  A member of the American Guild of Organists, Dr. Dahlin began playing the piano as a child, later beginning private organ instruction at the University of California, Los Angeles.  He previously served four other Lutheran churches as organist before his tenure at First Lutheran.  Some members know Dr. Dahlin not only as their church organist, but as their dentist as well!  We join in thanking God for the music ministry of Dr. Dahlin in downtown Long Beach, CA!

On Sunday 30 September, First Trinity Lutheran in downtown Washington, DC will honor The Reverend Tom Knoll’s 30th Anniversary in the Holy Ministry and his 30th year of serving Community Family Life Services and First Trinity as pastor.  First Trinity is looking to collect photos of Pastor Tom taken over the past 30 years (if you have any photos you may like to contribute to the celebration you are encouraged to contact office@firsttrinitydc.org).   We join in thanking God for the effective ministry of Pastor Knoll in downtown Washington, DC!

The Reverend Dr.  David Gleason, Senior Pastor of First English Lutheran Church in downtown Pittsburgh, PA for the past 23 years, has announced his retirement, effective 1 January 2013.  We thank Dr. Gleason for his dedicated leadership at First English and wish him and his family great blessings from God during his retirement.

The Reverend Frank Espegren, Associate Pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in downtown Sacramento, CA since 2007, was called to be the congregation’s new Senior Pastor on Sunday 9 September.  Pastor Frank has been a visionary leader in connecting the church with the downtown community in a variety of ways.  We ask God’s continued blessing upon him as he transitions into his new position.


A WORD ABOUT LONGEVITY

According to the Barna Group, the average pastoral tenure is between 4 years (“mainline churches”) and 8 years (“Protestant non-mainline churches”).

Over the 16 years that the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches has been in existence, a trend has been noted.  Downtown churches that are stable and especially those that are growing and expanding enjoy pastoral tenures that far outlast the average.  Twenty years or more is not an unusual tenure for a senior pastor in a downtown church.  It’s believed that is due to the trust and commitment required between pastor and people in tackling the challenges facing the downtown in general and the downtown church in specific.

What do you think?  What is the tenure of your senior pastor?  Why does a longer tenure seem necessary in the downtown church?  What are the blessings?  What are the curses?  Please send your ideas and comments to DowntownChurches@aol.com.  Your comments will fuel future discussion.


IDEAS FOR MISSION EXPANSION

In February, 2012, New York Times writer Stephanie Clifford wrote an article about the latest trends in large shopping malls.  Former retail space is now being occupied by gardens, churches and clinics.  The entire article can be read at http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/06/business/making-over-the-mall-in-rough-economic-times.html .

Have any of our downtown churches explored or actualized downtown mall space as mission expansion?  Additional worship location?  Youth facility?  Office space?  Evangelistic outreach?  Please send your comments to DowntownChurches@aol.com .  Your comments will fuel future discussion.


FOCUS ON CHICAGO, IL

Resurrection Lutheran Church in downtown Chicago publishes a weekly email devotion to subscribers.  That in itself is not an earth-shaking idea, except for the fact that Resurrection’s weekly devotions are written by a whole variety of lay volunteers.  The mostly non-clergy authors of the weekly devotions start with one or more of the assigned pericopal readings, then in mostly story-telling fashion relate that pericope to daily life on the streets of Chicago.   (Editorial comment: your editor has found better sermon applications in these weekly devotions than in many professionally produced sermon resources…..)

A member of the ELCA, more information about Resurrection Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Chicago can be found at  www.rlclakeview.com .


FOCUS ON OCALA, FL

While not a “downtown” church, Pastor Mark Jurkowski, recently installed Senior Pastor at St. John Lutheran in Ocala, has provided a great example for all churches that sponsor school ministries!

With St. John operating a school, Preschool through Grade 12 (the only Lutheran high school in the Florida-Georgia District of the LCMS), Pastor Jurkowski has established a new tradition of inviting the athletes of each of the sports teams of each of the schools to attend worship one Sunday.  Parents of the athletes are also invited.  During worship, the teams are recognized and blessed.  Talk about  a great evangelistic idea!

A member of the LCMS, more information about St. John Lutheran’s outreach to Ocala can be found at www.stjohnocala.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON WILLISTON, ND

Also not a “downtown” church, Concordia Lutheran Church in Williston, ND has creatively responded to its city’s severe housing shortage driven by the influx of people looking for oil jobs.  Community discussions about developing an emergency shelter or some other solution seem to have disintegrated, so Pastor Jay Reinke hosts 30 to 40 job seekers sleeping inside the church on a typical night, with dozens more who stay in their vehicles in the church’s parking lots.  A total of 450 people have slept inside the church while they searched for work and housing since May, 2011.  The church has diligently worked to calm the fears of church members, community members and church neighbors.  There are rules that must be followed.   The church keeps records of all the people who stay in the building and runs background checks.  A portable toilet has been added to the rear parking lot.

Responding to this social need has become quite the ministry!  Pastor Reinke leads devotions every evening at 9:00 p.m.  He returns every morning at 6:45 a.m. to walk through the church and wake the guests by singing “The Lord is my strength and my song and He has become my salvation.”   Overnighters are welcomed guests at worship.  Two have been baptized.  Some have settled in Williston and have become church members.

More information about this ministry can be read here .

A member of the LCMS, more information about Concordia Lutheran’s outreach to Williston can be found at http://concordia.ctsmemberconnect.net .


FOCUS ON MUSKOGEE, OK

First Lutheran Church in downtown Muskogee (“downtowns” indeed come in all shapes and sizes) recently announced the first meeting of the Anniversary Committee for the celebration of 100 years of Lutheranism in Muskogee.  The Anniversary Committee is looking for a history writer, a collector of historical information, a collector of pictures, information about former pastors, vicars and teachers and volunteers to assist with building clean-up, etc.  We join with them in their planned celebration and wish them God’s continued blessings upon their mission and ministry.  Founded in 1913, First Lutheran is currently led by Pastor Wayne Schuett.

A member of the LCMS, more information about First Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Muskogee can be found at www.firstlutheranmuskogee.org .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar
Editor
Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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“Build UP the Walls!” Gathering – 2012 Registration Information

Posted by admin on July 27, 2012

Registration materials for our “Build UP the Walls!” Gathering, Friday 12 October – Sunday 14 October, 2012, are in the mail to members and friends of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches.  All materials, including schedules, accommodation information, registration forms and  our roster of Presenters can be viewed and downloaded here.

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Downtown Issue # 16 – June, 2012

Posted by admin on June 4, 2012

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #16– June, 2012

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT
  4. SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!
  5. NOTED CELEBRATIONS
  6. ADLC LEADER’S CONSULTING REPORT
  7. MIDWEEK SERVICES RESPONSES
  8. SPOTLIGHT ON AUSTIN, TX
  9. SPOTLIGHT ON SAN FRANCISCO, CA
  10. SPOTLIGHT ON PORTLAND, OR
  11. SPOTLIGHT ON TULSA, OK
  12. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches around our great world (yes, we have “international members” not just in the United States, but also in Canada and even Hungary!)  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be directed to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT

If you’ve not yet added the Association to receive your weekly or monthly newsletters, won’t you please do so today?  It is guaranteed that every newsletter is indeed read!  If your congregation publishes a printed newsletter, would you please add us to your mailing list?  Please address them to Rev. Christopher Schaar, Historic First Lutheran, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA   91104-4317. If your congregation publishes an electronic newsletter, would you please add us to your e-dis list?  Please send them to DowntownChurches@aol.com.  If your e-news requires an email address to subscribe to receive your newsletter, please send notice of that fact to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will make sure we subscribe.


SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!

The Sixth Gathering of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches will be hosted by Historic Grace Lutheran in Springfield, IL from Friday 12 October through Sunday 14 October 2012.  Please mark this on your calendars!

Our main presenters will be The Reverend Dr. Stephen Bouman from the ELCA Churchwide Offices and The Reverend Carlos Hernandez from the LCMS International Center, both of whom have extensive knowledge of and experience in downtown ministries.  This gathering will prove to be one you will not want to miss!  Please plan and budget now to attend this gathering!  Formal registration packets will be mailed by 15 July 2012.


NOTED CELEBRATIONS

On Sunday 17 June, First English Lutheran Church in downtown Pittsburgh will honor The Reverend Dr. David Gleason’s 40th Anniversary in the Holy Ministry.  He has served as Senior Pastor at First English since 1989 (23 years).  We join in thanking God for the effective ministry of Pastor Gleason in downtown Pittsburgh!

On Sunday 6 May, Grace Lutheran in downtown Tulsa installed The Reverend Christopher Hall as its new Senior Pastor following a one-year vacancy.  We ask God’s blessings upon Pastor Hall in his new position!.


ADLC LEADER’S CONSULTING REPORT

Pastor Christopher Schaar, Leader of the Association, spent five days during early February in downtown Sacramento, California.  While there he met with Associate Pastor Frank Espegren and Interim Senior Pastor David Mullen of St. John Lutheran Church, learning about their past and their future direction.  He also met extensively with Pastor Jason Bredeson and the leadership team of Trinity Lutheran Church, submitting to them a 10-page consultation report.

For information about Pastor Schaar visiting your downtown and meeting with your church leadership, please contact him at DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MIDWEEK SERVICES RESPONSES

In the last issue of “Downtown” we asked a survey question regarding the mission viewpoints of downtown churches regarding midweek services, particularly during the seasons of Lent and Advent.  A number of you took time to respond.  Those responses are summarized below:

The most ambitious response came from First English Lutheran in downtown Pittsburgh (flcpittsburgh.org) .  Pastor David Gleason reports that the Eucharist is celebrated each day from Monday through Friday at 12:10 p.m.  Thirteen orders for these services have been developed which can all be celebrated in 20 to 30 minutes.  The services all contain the essentials of Eucharistic worship and include a brief homily.  They also have music, sometimes as little as a brief organ prelude and postlude and one hymn.  On Mondays, the Eucharist is celebrated with special prayers for healing and an opportunity for the laying on of hands and anointing.  Attendance at these daily services varies widely depending upon the weather, the season of the Church Year, etc.

Pastor King Shoenfeld from Historic Trinity Lutheran in downtown St. Louis (www.trinitystlouis.com) reports doing two not-very-novel things to encourage neighbors and members to take advantage of midweek services.  A short service for lunch-time workers and neighbors as well as senior members who don’t drive at night  is offered Wednesdays at 12:10 p.m.  This has been profitable enough to continue for a dozen years at least.  Wednesday evenings a free soup supper (coordinated by the Fellowship and Assimilation Board and hosted by different parish groups with free-will offering) is sponsored at 6:00 p.m.  This has proven very popular as the groups and individuals try to outdo each other and diners enjoy the fellowship.  The evening service follows at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.  Pastor Schoenfeld offered a suggestion that sack lunches might be provided noon-time worshipers.

The two above ideas (minus the soup suppers) reflect the general practice of Historic First Lutheran in downtown Pasadena (www.historicfirstlutheran.org).  For at least the last 15 years a noontime service has been held whenever an evening service is scheduled (Ash Wednesday, midweek Advent and Lent services, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday) for those working in the area or those not wanting to drive at night.  Volunteer member musicians accompany services on the piano.  Pastor Christopher Schaar has long predicted attendance at those noontime services would eventually exceed attendance at evening services, a prediction that this year has indeed almost come true.  On Ash Wednesday, being located in a heavily Hispanic neighborhood, the church was open from 9:00 a.m. through the end of the evening service.  Dozens and dozens (close to 100) of neighbors stopped by at their leisure to receive the Imposition of Ashes.


SPOTLIGHT ON AUSTIN, TX

Most churches (downtown and non-downtown alike) face the challenge of maintaining interest in and participation at Voters’ Assembly meetings.

St. Paul Lutheran in downtown Austin has tackled that common problem with a unique solution.  Following their two Sunday morning worship services the church youth group provides voters with a wonderful meal.  Money received from free-will offerings help the youth program with their activities throughout the year, particularly assisting them with paying for travel to youth conferences in various locations throughout the United States.  The Voters’ Assembly begins as soon as the meal is finished.  What a wonderful idea not only to bolster attendance numbers at Voters’ Assembly but also to permit the youth to play a vital role in the life of the church!

A member of the LCMS, more information about St. Paul Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Austin can be found at www.stpaulaustin.org.


SPOTLIGHT ON SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Church mergers are rarely successful.  There is usually a strong sense of defeat and discouragement among the members of merged congregations.  In fact, experts usually predict that at the end of a certain period of years, the merged congregation will actually be smaller – not larger – than the largest of the two pre-merged congregations (please don’t ask me for a credit reference for this expert opinion; I’ve just heard it enough – and actually seen it enough – to know it must be true).

Here’s some good news: a church merger can actually prove successful!

About 8 years ago, Bethel Lutheran and Grace Lutheran, both in downtown San Francisco, held joint worship services and soon jointly called a missionary pastor to serve them and lead them through the merger process.  During this 8-year process, business didn’t just continue “as usual.”  Instead, a food pantry was launched.  The Chinese outreach and many other mission initiatives were started.  Today, Bethel-Grace Lutheran Ministries has formalized its merger with the formation of “Christ for All Nations Lutheran Church.”  Weekly worship attendance has climbed from 80 people each week to between 250 and 275 people.  In fact, Christ for All Nations has set as its goal reaching 1% of its zip code population of around 50,000 people.

They know their work isn’t over, reminding themselves that while Christ uttered the words “It is Finished” from Calvary’s Cross, the real beginning of the Resurrection is the change in the world that happens life by life, something that never ends.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Christ for All Nations’ outreach to downtown San Francisco can be found at www.cfan-sf.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON PORTLAND, OR

Some, but not all, of our downtown churches have been blessed with parking lots.  Besides providing valuable off-street parking for worship services and church programs, the parking lots can also be used as an outreach to visitors to the downtown.  Such has become the case at Zion Lutheran in downtown Portland.

A recent newsletter proudly announced that Portland Timbers season is in full swing.  The youth at Zion are again this year offering parking in the Zion lot for a monetary donation for Timbers fans.  This proved to be a great fundraiser last season which allowed the youth to make a donation to the Zion Kitchen Fund, buy Christmas gifts for a refugee family as well as finance their ski outing.  Church members are encouraged to encourage Timbers fans to stop by and use the Zion Lot.

(Just as an aside, everyone should be aware that parking lots are often considered “unrelated business income” and may be subject to taxation by federal, state and local agencies.)

A member of the LCMS, more information about Zion Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Portland can be found at www.zion-portland.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON TULSA, OK

Social groups are an important component of every church!

At Grace Lutheran in downtown Tulsa there is a group called “Grace Girlz.”  The “Grace Girlz” “do lunch” almost every Sunday.  They issue an invitation for any mature, unattached women to meet immediately after services and comment where they’d like to go for lunch.  What a great social network idea!

A member of the LCMS, more information about Grace Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Tulsa can be found at www.gracelutherantulsa.org .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar
Editor
Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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Comments (0)

Downtown Issue # 15 – January, 2012

Posted by admin on January 22, 2012

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #15– January, 2012

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT
  4. SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!
  5. CAN ANYONE HELP OR ADVISE?
  6. REVITALIZING CONGREGATIONS: A HIGH PRIORITY?
  7. MIDWEEK WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
  8. SPOTLIGHT ON DETROIT, MI
  9. SPOTLIGHT ON ALBANY, NY
  10. SPOTLIGHT ON PITTSBURGH, PA
  11. SPOTLIGHT ON PORTLAND, OR
  12. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches around our great world (yes, we have “international members” not just in the United States, but also in Canada and even Hungary!)  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be directed to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT

If you’ve not yet added the Association to receive your weekly or monthly newsletters, won’t you please do so today?  It is guaranteed that every newsletter is indeed read!  If your congregation publishes a printed newsletter, would you please add us to your mailing list?  Please address them to Rev. Christopher Schaar, Historic First Lutheran, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA   91104-4317. If your congregation publishes an electronic newsletter, would you please add us to your e-dis list?  Please send them to DowntownChurches@aol.com.  If your e-news requires an email address to subscribe to receive your newsletter, please send notice of that fact to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will make sure we subscribe.


SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!

The Sixth Gathering of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches will be hosted by Historic Grace Lutheran in Springfield, IL from Friday 12 October through Sunday 14 October 2012.  Please mark this on your calendars!

Our main presenter will be Rev. Dr. Stephen Bouman from the ELCA Churchwide Offices!  This gathering will prove to be one you will not want to miss!  Please plan and budget now to attend this gathering!  Formal registration packets will be mailed around 1 June 2012.


CAN ANYONE HELP OR ADVISE?

One of the stated purposes of the Association is to encourage each other by sharing ideas.  Maybe someone can help with this unusual situation!

More than 100 years ago, one of the founding families of Akron, Ohio, set apart a plot of ground in the newly developed downtown for a Lutheran church.  Zion Lutheran was established on that plot of property and has faithfully carried out its ministry ever since, even purchasing an adjacent parcel of property to accommodate its growing ministry.  The problem is that it is believed that the original plot of property was never transferred to the congregation, leaving much uncertainty about the true ownership of that now very valuable piece of real estate.  Official property records from that era are very sketchy.  Trying to locate a descendent of the original founding family has proven quite the challenge.

Has anyone ever heard of a similar situation, or maybe experienced a similar situation?  Any words of advice or counsel?  Pastor Josh Schoon would love to hear from you at josh_schoon@yahoo.com .


REVITALIZING CONGREGATIONS: A HIGH PRIORITY?

In case you missed it, you would do yourself a great favor to check out the Fall, 2011 issue of “Issues in Christian Education,” an online publication of Concordia University, Seward, Nebraska.  Featured in this issue are the articles “Demographics and Transforming Congregations” (by Rev. Jeffrey Miller), “Revitalization: A God Idea?” (by Rev. Dr. Robert Newton) and “How Revitalization Can Happen” (by Rev. Terry Tieman).

If you haven’t already seen it, this excellent resource can be found at www.cune.edu/about/publications/issues-in-christian-education/issues-fall-2011 .


MIDWEEK WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Many Lutheran churches these days, even large suburban congregations, are scaling back or altogether canceling midweek worship services, even during the seasons of Advent and Lent.  The usual complaint is declining attendance at these services and the expense of such services (printing costs, heating and lighting costs and staff costs).

In the downtown venue, though, midweek worship services offer a wonderful way of bringing the downtown community into the doors of the downtown church.  Some downtown churches have found a great niche in reaching fellow Lutherans who work downtown who otherwise wouldn’t attend services at their own suburban congregations.  Other downtown churches use midweek worship as great outreach opportunities to reach non-Lutherans or the unchurched population working in the downtown area.

With the continued evolution of modern technology some cost of these midweek worship opportunities can be minimized by using excellent musical resources like the CD sets “Every Voice a Song” or “The Concordia Organist.”

What is your congregation doing with midweek worship opportunities?  Please email your ideas and solutions to DowntownChurches@aol.com .  We will share your ideas with others!


SPOTLIGHT ON DETROIT, MI

The visionary “Mother Church” of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches (it was the singular passion of Rev. Dr. David Eberhard that convened our first gathering in October, 1996), Historic Trinity Church in downtown Detroit continues to set the bar for downtown churches across the country and around the world!

A couple years ago, Historic Trinity Church (a downtown church with 1859 baptized members) engaged in a shared ministry with Our Shepherd Lutheran in Birmingham, MI (a suburban church with 1703 baptized members).  Under this shared ministry partnership, pastors of both churches are “partner pastors” in both locations.  In addition, the partnership has been involved in shared youth activities, Men’s Bible Studies, training and producing 20-30 Bible cell groups throughout metro Detroit, regular sharing time in sessions of church executive officers, discussing and challenging each other to greater ministries and providing deployed seminary training for vicars and trained lay ministers at each site.

In addition, while the State of Michigan and the City of Detroit are engaged in re-inventing themselves, so also is the church in the city engaging in a process to re-invent itself.  The shared ministry of Historic Trinity and Our Shepherd is promoting “The Lutheran Church in the City” (LCC) as a self-supporting flexible organization throughout the City of Detroit.  It is fostering contacts with developers and community representatives to allow LCC to become involved at the ground floor of these communities, engaging urban pioneers in discussion intended to maintain and improve the value of life in the city.  On the horizon are Bible study groups at three locations along the Detroit river front, assisting the reestablishment of several parishes in the city, connecting people to areas where they can volunteer, beginning a legal and medical reference and assistance center and seeking other partnerships with suburban parishes and people.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Historic Trinity Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Detroit can be found at www.historictrinity.org and www.historictrinityinc.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON ALBANY, NY

Many people incorrectly assume that “the church” is only concerned about spiritual matters.  St. John’s Lutheran in downtown Albany recently broke that stereotype by prominently advertising a “Faith Hike” on Saturday 14 January 2012 at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.  Hikers met at a neighboring Lutheran church for prayer and a brief devotion, followed by a hour-long hike, all the while taking in God’s creation.  Prayer was also offered at the end of the hike.  Skilled hiking guides had a trail map and first aid equipment.

A member of the ELCA, more information about St. John Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Albany can be found at www.stjohnsalbany.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON PITTSBURGH, PA

A number of years ago, Rev. Dr. David Gleason, Senior Pastor of First English Lutheran, envisioned a VBS program that would not only provide children with an opportunity to learn the Bible but also learn downtown Pittsburgh, believing that the church has a responsibility to teach children to love both Scripture and the city.  What has resulted is known as “Camp Downtown,” a full-day, week-long, multi-congregational VBS program for children in kindergarten through grade 6, with young people in grades 7-12 serving as youth counselors.  Mornings are spent exploring the Bible through various learning stations, with afternoons spent exploring Pittsburgh through various excursions around downtown.  Last year, more than 50 children and young people participated in “Camp Downtown.”  The program has proven so successful that a day-long winter event known as “Ice Fest” is sponsored in February.

In addition, again under the spiritual leadership of Pastor Gleason, the Worship Committee of First English Lutheran became united in the belief that worship opportunities should extend beyond their church doors into the greater downtown community.  A “Prison Worship Team” was formed, with worship services now conducted at Allegheny County Jail.  A new challenge has also surfaced.  Due to the constant coming and going of inmates, First English Lutheran has established a goal of raising $1,000.00 to purchase 1,800 Bibles to place into the hands of the inmates!  Talk about “doing unto the least of these” [Matthew 25:40]!

A member of the ELCA, more information about First English Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Pittsburgh can be found at flcpittsburgh.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON PORTLAND, OR

Church members at Central Lutheran Church are invited to enter “Soul Café,” a new online community that is a sacred space on the world wide web that enables geographically separated Lutherans to meet, interact and get to know each other through idea sharing and communication for real solutions to shared problems, issues and challenges facing the church today.  This initiative places them ahead of the curve at a strategic period in their history when they can no longer afford to be behind it.  Members are encouraged to log onto www.soulcafe.org and be part of the onset of this incredible new adventure.

A member of the ELCA, more information about Central Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Portland can be found at www.centralportland.org .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar
Editor
Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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Downtown Issue # 14 – November, 2011

Posted by admin on November 21, 2011

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #13– September, 2011

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT
  4. ADDING TO THE ADLC FAMILY
  5. SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!
  6. SPOTLIGHT ON SITKA, AK
  7. SPOTLIGHT ON PASADENA, CA
  8. SPOTLIGHT ON SAN FRANCISCO, CA AND PORTLAND, OR
  9. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches across our great country!  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be directed to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


NEWSLETTERS STILL BEING SOUGHT

If you’ve not yet added the Association to receive your weekly or monthly newsletters, won’t you please do so today?  It is guaranteed that every newsletter is indeed read!  If your congregation publishes a printed newsletter, would you please add us to your mailing list?  Please address them to Rev. Christopher Schaar, Historic First Lutheran, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA   91104-4317. If your congregation publishes an electronic newsletter, would you please add us to your e-dis list?  Please send them to DowntownChurches@aol.com.  If your e-news requires an email address to subscribe to receive your newsletter, please send notice of that fact to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will make sure we subscribe.


ADDING TO THE ADLC FAMILY

Congratulations and God’s richest blessings to Pastor Jason and Miranda Bredeson on the birth of  Elizabeth Mae Bredeson, born on 29 October 2011 at 8:45 p.m. (19 inches; 6.5 pounds).  Jason serves as pastor at Trinity Lutheran, Sacramento, CA, active participants in the Association.  Elizabeth Mae holds the honor of being the youngest person to ever attend a Gathering of the Association, having attended the 5th Gathering in Pasadena, CA this past spring while still in Mom’s womb!  The Association continues to grow!


SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!

The Sixth Gathering of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches will be hosted by Historic Grace Lutheran in Springfield, IL from Friday 12 October through Sunday 14 October 2012.  Please mark this on your calendars!

It’s exciting to report that we have received confirmation that The Reverend Dr. Stephen P. Bouman, Executive Director of Evangelical Outreach and Congregational Mission for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, will be our extended presenter on Saturday 13 October!

In addition, the Superintendent of the Lincoln Home Historic Site (the national park in which Historic Grace finds itself located) will bring greetings and talk about the relationship between Historic Grace and the national park and what that means for Downtown Springfield.  A visit to the Lincoln home and Lincoln Museum is also being planned.

Within walking distance (or short driving distance) of Historic Grace are located the State Capitol of Illinois, the Lincoln Library, the Old State Capitol (site of the candidacy announcements for Presidents Lincoln and Obama) and Oak Ridge Cemetery, where President Lincoln and his family are buried.

This gathering will prove to be one you will not want to miss!  Please plan and budget now to attend this gathering!  Formal registration packets will be mailed early summer, 2012.


SPOTLIGHT ON SITKA, AK

That’s right! Sitka, Alaska has made its way into the “Downtown” Spotlight!

With a 2011 Population of 8,773, Sitka may seem like nothing compared with cities like Chicago, New York and Los Angeles, but Sitka does indeed have a very well defined downtown.  Very prominent on the downtown Sitka skyline (and specifically mentioned in every tourist guide) is St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral.  Across the street is Sitka Lutheran Church.

Downtown Sitka comes alive during the summer months as cruise ships tender passengers to the docks.  Gift shops and restaurants are crowded.  A line of tourists forms outside St. Michael’s (entrance fee is $5.00).  Sitka Lutheran staffs its church with volunteers and welcomes people in (for free), offering use of its restrooms (a public convenience not found across the street at St. Michael’s).

Trained volunteer tour guides warmly welcome every tourist who walks through the door of Sitka  Lutheran, not only telling them about the rich history of the church (established in 1840 by approval of the Russian Czar Nicholas I, who also granted a perpetual land deed to the congregation) and encouraging them to peruse the artifacts on display, but also inviting any musician to play its impressively handmade 1844 Kessler Organ #45, the first pipe organ on the West Coast of North America.

What a lesson to be learned!  While many midweek downtown visitors find our churches locked and secured, Sitka Lutheran has mastered the “open door” policy, even serving freshly popped popcorn in the afternoons.

A member of the ELCA, more information about Sitka Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Sitka can be found at www.sitkalutheranchurch.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON PASADENA, CA

Urban dwellers often idolize their pets.  What better way to connect with the people living in the neighborhoods around our churches than to plan a regular event just for their pets?

Such was the thinking of Deacon John Ochetti from Historic First Lutheran Church.  Noting the popularity of its annual “Blessing of the Animals” (which Historic First actually celebrates not on St. Francis Day but on the Saturday before Palm Sunday, since its Palm Sunday procession recreates the original procession into Jerusalem, complete with sheep and goats and a donkey), Deacon Ochetti has established a “Doggie Ministry” on the first and third Saturday of every month.  During this hour-long “ministry,” licensed and inoculated dogs enjoy running around the two-acre field while their human “parents” enjoy fellowship time (during which Deacon Ochetti regularly introduces theological topics and invites people to worship).  New members and regular worshipers have been realized from this unique “ministry.”

A member of the LCMS, more information about Historic First Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Pasadena can be found at www.historicfirstlutheran.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON SAN FRANCISCO, CA AND PORTLAND, OR

Many of our large downtown church facilities are used by a number of other organizations (sometimes for free; sometimes for a rental fee).  There is often a very noticeable divide separating the congregation from these other organizations.  Two downtown churches are making admirable efforts to bridge and erase that divide.

Bethel Grace Lutheran Ministries sponsors an After School Program, largely attended by non-member children.  These 29 families have been invited to attend the Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon following worship on Sunday 20 November.  Church members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share, giving them a wonderful opportunity to warmly welcome these families and meet the children benefitting from this program.  A member of the LCMS, more information about Bethel Grace Lutheran Ministries’ outreach to downtown San Francisco can be found at www.bethelgrace.com/BethelGraceLutheranMinistries .

The Portland Symphonic Girlchoir practices in the Fellowship Hall of Zion Lutheran every Monday and Tuesday afternoons.  The 130 singers of the Girlchoir were invited to share their musical gifts during the 11:00 a.m. morning worship service at Zion on Sunday 13 November.  A member of the LCMS, more information about Zion Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Portland can be found at www.zion-portland.org .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar
Editor
Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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Downtown Issue # 13 – September, 2011

Posted by admin on September 6, 2011

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #13– September, 2011

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. THANKS
  4. NEW MEMBER WELCOME
  5. SPRING GATHERING REPORT
  6. A REMINDER ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION
  7. SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!
  8. THEY SEEM TO BE GETTING IT
  9. SPOTLIGHT ON NORFOLK, VA AND SAN DIEGO, CA
  10. SPOTLIGHT ON AKRON, OH
  11. SPOTLIGHT ON ST. LOUIS, MO
  12. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches across our great country!  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be directed to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


THANKS

Since the distribution of our last newsletter, the following downtown ministries have graciously added the Association to their newsletter mailing lists or have added the Association to their electronic distribution list, listed here in alphabetical order:

“St. John’s Eaglet,” St. John Lutheran, Albany, NY;
“St. John’s Spokesman,” St. John Lutheran, Sacramento, CA;
The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Seattle, WA

That leaves only about 400 of you out there still to share your news with the Association.  Please rest assured that every single newsletter received IS INDEED READ, with information often gleaned to be included in future issues of “Downtown.”

If you’ve not yet added the Association, won’t you please do so today?  If your congregation publishes a printed newsletter, would you please add us to your mailing list?  Please address them to Rev. Christopher Schaar, Historic First Lutheran, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA   91104-4317.  If your congregation publishes an electronic newsletter, would you please add us to your e-dis list?  Please send them to DowntownChurches@aol.com.  If your e-news requires an email address to subscribe to receive your newsletter, please send notice of that fact to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will make sure we subscribe.


NEW MEMBER WELCOME

It is with much joy that the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches welcomes The Reverend Dr. Thomas R. Johnson as pastor of First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in downtown Chicago.  A founding congregation of the Association, First St. Paul’s also served in 1847 as the host congregation for the organizing convention of what is today The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.  Welcome, Pastor Johnson!


SPRING GATHERING REPORT

The Fifth Gathering of the Association was held the end of April, 2011 at Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA.  Forty-five people registered for the gathering and enjoyed two-and-a-half  FULL days of insightful greetings and presentations by speakers from The City of Pasadena, The Tournament of Roses Association, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Concordia University Irvine, Lutheran World Relief and Fuller Seminary.  The Hispanic Mission of Historic First Lutheran even provided an overabundant authentic feast for lunch on Saturday.  Positive results were received on participant evaluation forms.  The optional Monday add-on event, a full day urban hike of the diverse neighborhoods of downtown Los Angeles, was enjoyed by twelve participants.


A REMINDER ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION

Following our Spring Gathering, some less than complimentary comments were posted on the world wide web by non-participants of the gathering, bemoaning the fact that the Association is practicing syncretism by involving ALL Lutheran denominations and wondering why presenters from the ELCA and Fuller Seminary were included.

A reminder about the Association.  We are not sponsored by any Lutheran denomination.  We are an independent association of Lutheran pastors and congregations who find themselves carrying out Christ’s Great Commission in the downtown areas of our great American cities.  We have discovered a camaraderie and a mutual support among ourselves that seem to be much more cohesive than our associations with other “urban” ministries.

The purpose of our gatherings is not to discuss theology since we are already painfully aware of the doctrinal differences that divide us along denominational lines.  Instead, the purpose of our gatherings, as is indicated in our mission statement, is to celebrate “the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


SIXTH GATHERING IS IN THE PLANNING STAGES!

The Sixth Gathering of the Association will be hosted by Historic Grace Lutheran in Springfield, IL from Friday 12 October through Sunday 14 October 2012.  Please mark this on your calendars!

Historic Grace, founded in 1841, is the only Lutheran congregation of which we are aware to be located within the boundaries of a national park, the Abraham Lincoln National Historical Site.  Historic Grace’s  founding pastor was a neighbor and friend of Abraham Lincoln and Historic Grace had its start in the pastor’s home.

Formal registration packets will be mailed after Easter, 2012.


THEY SEEM TO BE GETTING IT

Many downtown churches have long felt that denominational and seminary leaders didn’t quite know what to do with “downtown” churches.  Most leaders have long lumped “downtown” churches into

the generic categories of “urban” and “inner city.”  And while “downtown” churches certainly are “urban” and “inner city,” they are also often very distinctive in personality.  Many downtown churches have also long felt that denominational and seminary leaders view “downtown” churches as “the past” while viewing suburban and megachurches as “the future.”

Every once in a while a glimmer of assurance is seen that someone is getting it.  Such is the case in the article entitled “Signs of the Times,” written by Dr. Dale Meyer, President of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, in the Winter 2011 issue of “Concordia Journal.”  Pay close attention to these words:

“A growing Lutheran church in America will see more and more small congregations.  Many of them will be ethnic.  It is estimated that by 2050 one of every four Americans will be Hispanic while the white Anglo population of America will dip below 50 percent.  Hispanic, African American, African immigrant, and Asian congregations must be a part of a growing twenty-first century Missouri Synod, not some backwater colonies of our predominant but rapidly aging white Anglo church.  We’ll have to get comfortable with churches and fellow baptized who speak Spanish, Sudanese, Mandarin, and many other languages that first-generation immigrants are speaking.  In the process, their children and grandchildren will likely learn English just as did German-speaking Grandpa Meyer’s grandchildren.  More and more of these churches will be found in larger metropolitan areas, cities we’ve pretty much forsaken as we continued to depend upon mid-twentieth century white birth rates, as we moved to the suburbs and assumed that a younger oriented demographic would continue to sustain growth, and as we continue to follow missional and economic models that reflect a no longer existent church culture.”

Thanks be to God!  They seem to be getting it!


SPOTLIGHT ON NORFOLK, VA & SAN DIEGO, CA

We’ve never before included a dual spotlight feature, but it seemed appropriate in light of the glimmer of assurance seen in the above article.  Your editor has happened upon two intentional church plants in the downtown, one in Norfolk and one in San Diego.  Both are the result of the intentional plan of suburban congregations to call and deploy a pastor to reclaim an under-served downtown region. [A similar story was told in Issue #8 of “Downtown,” available for viewing at the Association’s website]

In Norfolk, the vision of Crossway Church is to minister to the “young adults” living among the 250,000 residents found within a 6-mile radius, plus the 30,000 professionals who work downtown every day.  The goal is to connect the unchurched, de-churched, and lost young adults to a genuine faith in Christ Jesus and then to demonstrate through discipleship how to lead full, rich, Kingdom-impacting lives under the Cross of Christ.  Current mission outreaches include opening its space Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to Noon, offering free coffee and conversation for those who stop by; placing New Testaments on a table in front of their doors (finding a dozen or so taken on a daily basis!); filling a few shelves with new sneakers, socks, hats, gloves, coats and other items to help those in need; operating a small recording studio to create music that is glorifying to God while also connecting with the young adult population; personally sharing Jesus to over 300 people in a 10 month period, with 18 people committing their lives to Jesus Christ.  A mission outreach of the LCMS, more information about Crossway Church’s outreach to downtown Norfolk can be found at www.cwnorfolk.com .

In San Diego, Transform San Diego is a network of individuals who gather throughout Downtown San Diego for various reasons. The establishing principle is that God has called people into relationship, relationship with Him and relationship with others.  The goal is to see the love of Christ transform lives, and in  turn, transform the city of San Diego. Transform San Diego meets together in homes, offices, bars and restaurants to grow in relationships with God, with each other, and with others in the community. Transform San Diego is a mission outreach of the LCMS.


SPOTLIGHT ON AKRON, OH

Emphasizing the distinct Lutheran understanding of the “Priesthood of All Believers,” Holy Trinity Lutheran encourages its members to stop by Room 202 before going to visit fellow members.  In that room is found a small freezer containing soup.  Holy Trinity also has a book and magazine lending library.  Church members are encouraged to deliver soup, books and magazines to fellow church members.  A member of the ELCA, more information about Holy Trinity Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Akron can be found at www.trinityakron.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON ST. LOUIS, MO

Historic Trinity Lutheran truly lives out a specific characteristic of being a “downtown church,” being a “Cathedral Ministry.”

As the “Mother Church” of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, the first church founded by the Saxons after their arrival in St. Louis in 1839 and pastored by Dr. C. F. W. Walther from 1841 (succeeding his brother who was founding pastor of Historic Trinity and served until dying of typhoid fever) to his own death in 1887, Historic Trinity will host a Synod-wide service on Sunday 23 October 2011 at 3:00 p.m. to celebrate the bicentennial of Dr. Walther’s birth.  A member of the LCMS, more information about Historic Trinity’s outreach to downtown St. Louis can be found at www.trinitystlouis.com .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar
Editor
Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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“Build UP the Walls!” Gathering – 2011 Registration Information

Posted by admin on January 31, 2011

Registration materials for our “Build UP the Walls!” Gathering, Friday 29 April – Sunday 1 May, 2011, are in the mail to members and friends of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches.  All materials, including schedules, transportation and accommodation information, registration forms and  our roster of Presenters can also be viewed and downloaded here.

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Downtown Issue # 12 – January, 2011

Posted by admin on January 23, 2011

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #12– January, 2011

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. NEXT GATHERING
  4. SPOTLIGHT ON PHOENIX, AZ
  5. SPOTLIGHT ON RICHMOND, VA
  6. SPOTLIGHT ON NAPA, CA
  7. SPOTLIGHT ON PORTLAND, OR
  8. SPOTLIGHT ON AKRON, OH
  9. SPOTLIGHT ON SPRINGFIELD, IL
  10. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches across our great country!  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be directed to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


NEXT GATHERING

The fifth gathering of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches will be held at Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena, California from Friday 29 April through Monday 2 May 2011.  Registration fee is $125.00 for the first participant, with a discounted $75.00 per person rate for additional participants from the same congregation registering on the same form.  Those fees include all meals.

Presenters include Reverend Dr. John Arthur Nunes from Lutheran World Relief of Baltimore, Dr. Mark Lau Branson and Graduate Student Matthew Rosebrock from Fuller Seminary, Reverend Greg Seltz from Concordia University Irvine, and Reverend Bishop Dean Nelson from The Southwest California Synod of The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Formal registration packets, including airline, ground transportation and hotel information, will be snail mailed by 1 February 2011.  In addition, registration information will soon be available for download at www.downtownlutheranchurches.org .


SPOTLIGHT ON PHOENIX, AZ

Last year, Pastor Steve Massey from St. Paul Lutheran in Phoenix turned 50 years old (along with St. Paul’s).  To celebrate the events, he trained to hike the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim in one day.  On 30 September 2010, he completed the hike.  He also made this an opportunity to financially support outreach for St. Paul and urban ministry throughout the Pacific Southwest District of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.

As part of this event, Pastor Massey started a blog: www.rim2rim4thecity.blogspot.com.  One of the purposes of this blog is to network the urban church with other churches.  The Lord has brought the nations into the backyards of our urban churches.  Many times the urban churches do not have the manpower to run programs they desire, such as Vacation Bible School. This blog site can be used for the urban church to express ministry needs and another church can connect with that church to meet that need.  Over $1,700.00 was raised for urban ministry.

In addition, St. Paul’s has started a “Magazine Round Table,” inviting members to recycle their read magazines (and also save money by not having to purchase a subscription to every magazine they may desire to peruse) by placing them on a designated table for other members to also enjoy.  Stickers marked “St. Paul” are affixed over the mailing labels so people know to return the borrowed magazine when completed with it.

A member of the LCMS, more information about St. Paul Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Phoenix can found at www.stpaullutheran-az.com .


SPOTLIGHT ON RICHMOND, VA

Bethlehem Lutheran Church took outreach to a new level this past fall!  An outreach activity involving students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)  took place during “Welcome Week.”  Bethlehem passed out free hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs and soft drinks.  Literature about the church was available, along with announcements about upcoming opportunities in which students might get involved.  Follow-up emails to students announced special events planned for them: a cooking course, a class on church architecture and symbolism, a class on defending the Christian faith and a meeting about ways that students can serve the greater community through the church.  The goal of this event was to build bridges with students so that they might know Bethlehem and Bethlehem them so that some may also come to know or better know the Lord Jesus.

In addition, Bethlehem celebrated “Christmas in October,” collecting items to be delivered to homebound members during “Caroling to the Homebound” visits in December.  All-occasion cards, combs, chap stick, hair brushes, hard candy, hand and body lotion, puzzle books, stationery and stamps, tooth brushes and toothpaste were all collected during October.  Food and beverage items were collected during November and December.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Bethlehem Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Richmond can found at www.bethlehemlutheran-richmond.com .


SPOTLIGHT ON NAPA, CA

Many downtown churches support local food banks in a great variety of ways!  St. John’s Lutheran put its own unique spin on this important mission.  For the past two years, a two-acre plot of land next to the sanctuary has served as a community garden tended by an army of volunteers, raising hundreds of pounds of tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, potatoes, lettuce and other fresh produce.  There’s even a flock of hens, doing their part in their moveable pen by eating bugs and weeds and laying eggs.  Local food bank workers pick-up the fresh produce from St. John’s every day or two.  As soon as the crops come in, they’re distributed to families in need, making the produce as fresh as possible.  St John’s hosts open work parties on Saturday mornings, but volunteers are liable to drop in any time.

A member of the LCMS, more information about St. John’s Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Napa can found at www.stjohnslutheran.net .


SPOTLIGHT ON PORTLAND, OR

“Let none hear you idly saying, ‘There is nothing I can do.’” Way too often, downtown churches use their small size or struggling financial condition as excuses, saying, “Once we’re larger or have more money available, we plan to do something.”  Instead of using that excuse, Zion Lutheran teamed up with a number of other faith-based organizations and social service agencies to impact downtown Portland through an event called “Downtown Compassion” last September.

Held at the Memorial Coliseum, many different volunteer services were provided: medical, dental, physical therapy, foot care, immunizations, social services, hair cuts, child care and even pet care.  Upon opening, the swell of the crowd was overwhelming.  Clients waited patiently in the center of the Coliseum until their appointment times were announced on the big screen.  Initial numbers report 1,200 meals served, 600 immunizations given, 300+ medical or dental care clients, 140 prescriptions given out, 125 haircuts, and guests, as well as volunteers, were prayed with, listened to and cared for.  The debriefing session agreed that even more volunteer staff members were needed for future events.  Volunteers agreed that it was a humbling honor to have been a part of this event.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Zion Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Portland can found at www.zion-portland.org .


SPOTLIGHT  ON AKRON, OH

Zion Lutheran Church has established a “Community Emergency Fund,” inviting church members to help those in need.  Maybe unusual by downtown standards, Zion’s experience has been that many of the people seeking assistance are only seen once because theirs is a situation that requires short-term help.  This new fund helps with utility bills, stranded motorists, transportation to medical treatment, food needs beyond what its food pantry has available, obtaining identification cards and countless other situations.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Zion Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Akron can found at www.ziononthehill.org .


SPOTLIGHT  ON  SPRINGFIELD, IL

Grace Lutheran Church has introduced a new feature in its newsletter called “Ask the Staff.”  This feature allows members to ask questions about Grace’s mission and ministry and permits the appropriate staff member to provide important information so that members better know and understand what happens in downtown Springfield.

In addition, in preparation for its annual distribution of baskets at Thanksgiving and Christmas, Grace Church challenged its members to “think outside the box” and place a collection container at their work locations to collect canned goods, to ask members of non-church groups belonged to by members to donate food or money, to suggest that Christmas gift exchanges instead include contributions to the food baskets, or emailing non-member family and friends, asking for food or money for the baskets.  All great ideas!

A member of the ELCA, more information about Grace Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Springfield can found at www.GraceLutheran-Springfield.com .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar
Editor
Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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Downtown Issue # 11 – October, 2010

Posted by admin on October 17, 2010

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #11– October, 2010

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT: JOY IN THE JOURNEY!
  4. REACHING OUT IN THE GREAT DOWNTOWN
  5. THANKS
  6. NEXT GATHERING
  7. SPOTLIGHT ON AKRON, OH
  8. SPOTLIGHT ON CHICAGO, IL
  9. SPOTLIGHT ON SAN FRANCISCO, CA
  10. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches across our great country!  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be directed to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT: JOY IN THE JOURNEY!

Between the lines of the dozens of monthly newsletters from downtown Lutheran churches received and faithfully read by your editor, much brokenness is seen.  That brokenness results from declining congregational membership.  That brokenness results from major deficit spending during these tough economic times.  That brokenness results from the enormity of the endless mission confronting the downtown church.  That brokenness  results from strained relationships between pastor and people.
Your editor is no stranger to all those examples of brokenness.  Your editor is one who empathizes with you and prays for you as he reads your newsletters.
My sisters and brothers in Christ, know that the words of St. Paul are so real: “Rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS!” [Philippians 4:13].  Know that your editor has found much “joy in the journey” as he reads your newsletters.  It’s not uncommon for a shout of joy to emanate from his office as he reads what you’re doing, faithfully sharing the Good News about Jesus Christ to all those in your congregation and community experiencing their own brokenness.  It’s the desire of your editor that this “Downtown” bi-monthly newsletter brings you joy in your journey and inspiration in the harvest field we call the “great downtown.”


REACHING OUT IN THE GREAT DOWNTOWN

Remember the old Petula Clark song?  “When you’re alone and life is making you lonely you can always go DOWNTOWN.  When you’ve got worries, all the noise and the hurry seems to help, I know.  DOWNTOWN.  Just listen to the music of the traffic in the city.  Linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty.  How can you lose?  The lights are much brighter there.  You can forget all your troubles, forget all your cares, so go DOWNTOWN.  Things will be great when you’re DOWNTOWN, no finer place for sure.  DOWNTOWN!  Everything’s waiting for you.”

So many years after that song hit the charts, it’s becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Statistics tell us that, after many years of fleeing to the “‘burbs,” people are discovering anew the secret of their ancestors: “Downtown is the place to be!”

Why do we have the monstrous, cavernous church buildings downtown?  Because the streets and the houses used to be packed with people.  Excited reports I have received from downtown churches across the country have confirmed what I myself have experienced in downtown ministry.  There is again growth in our downtown churches.  Not all that growth is simply coming from people commuting back in from the “‘burbs.”  A lot of that growth is happening because of all those people moving back into the lofts and apartments and condos located DOWNTOWN.  Property prices and quality of life issues are driving people back into our cities, back into our downtowns, back into our downtown churches.  Praise God!

Brothers and sisters in Christ: do you and your congregation have a plan for dealing with the repopulation of the city that is either happening around you right now or is guaranteed to happen around you within the next few years?  If you do, share those insights with the rest of us at DowntownChurches@aol.com .


THANKS

Since the distribution of our last newsletter, the following downtown ministries have graciously added the Association to their newsletter mailing lists or have added the Association to their electronic distribution list, listed here in alphabetical order:

  • “Grace Life,” Grace Lutheran, Tulsa, OK;
  • “St. Paul News,” St. Paul Lutheran, Phoenix, AZ;
  • “The Bethlehem Star,” Bethlehem Lutheran, Richmond, VA;
  • “Timothy Notes” & “A Letter from Timothy,” Timothy Lutheran, St. Louis, MO

That leaves only about 400 of you out there still to share your news with the Association.  Please rest assured that every single newsletter received IS INDEED READ, with information often gleaned to be included in future issues of “Downtown.”

If you’ve not yet added the Association, won’t you please do so today?  If your congregation publishes a printed newsletter, would you please add us to your mailing list?  Please address them to Rev. Christopher Schaar, Historic First Lutheran, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA   91104-4317.  If your congregation publishes an electronic newsletter, would you please add us to your e-dis list?  Please send them to DowntownChurches@aol.com.  If your e-news requires an email address to subscribe to receive your newsletter, please send notice of that fact to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will make sure we subscribe.


NEXT GATHERING

The fifth gathering of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches will for the first time be located west of St. Louis.  Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena, California will serve as host.  The gathering is scheduled for the weekend after Easter, starting with a late afternoon hosted cocktail hour and dinner on Friday 29 April 2011, continuing through Sunday evening 1 May 2011.

We announce these dates now for calendar and budget planning purposes.  Registration fee is expected to be $125.00, which will include several meals.  Presenters from Lutheran World Relief, Fuller Seminary, Concordia University Irvine, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod are already being secured.  Formal registration packets, including airline, ground transportation and hotel information, will be snail mailed by 1 February 2011 to enable consideration and response prior to the start of Lent.


SPOTLIGHT ON AKRON, OH

As we all know, keeping the grounds of the church beautiful and appealing to both members and visitors alike takes a huge amount of constant labor and funding.  Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Akron has started an “Adopt-a-Plot” program.  Their gardens look great and they’d like to keep them that way.  A map posted on the info-tower allows individuals or families to take summer “ownership” of a specific area of the church property.

(Just as a side note, if you have a beautifully landscaped property, outreach to your neighbors – both residential and daily business workers – might take a twist of allowing them to use your property for lunch breaks, etc.)

A member of the ELCA, more information about Holy Trinity’s outreach to downtown Akron can found at www.trinityakron.org


SPOTLIGHT  ON CHICAGO, IL

Not a foreign topic to any of us, the maintenance and repair costs of generally old and constantly aging buildings create a huge burdens on the budgets of congregations.

In March, 2010, The Chicago Gazette Magazine spotlighted the plight of Historic St. Matthew Lutheran Church which has been ordered by the City of Chicago’s Building Department to make costly repairs, including replacing windows, tuckpointing the chimney, adding metal safety bars to the front doors, fixing the ceiling structure and repairing cement steps.  That original article caught the attention of many willing to help and brought help from local congregations.  That original article also touched the hearts of an architect and an engineer, who are volunteering their services to the church.

During the difficult task of raising enough funds to get all the work done, Pastor Julio A. Loza discovered a nonprofit group called “Partners for Sacred Places,” which provides training and technical assistance to congregations in making historic buildings handicapped accessible.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Historic St. Matthew Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Chicago (including it’s “El Comedor Popular” soup kitchen which serves 1,200 meals a month to the hungry and unemployed) can be found at www.stmatthewchicago.org .

Information about “Partners for Sacred Places” can be found at www.sacredplaces.org .


SPOTLIGHT  ON  SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Most of us downtown churches conduct community outreach programs.  Many times congregation members don’t actually connect with the members of the community reached by those outreaches.  Bethel Grace Lutheran Ministries has developed a wonderful idea to connect congregation members with the 26 children and families enrolled in their summer program.

“Prayer Pictures” have been posted in a public area.  Congregation members are invited to take home a “Prayer Picture” from the posting area.  Each “Prayer Picture” includes a photo of the child and a few informational items.  Congregation members are asked to pray for the child and its family daily that they may believe in Jesus as their Savior, be baptized and become active disciples in Bethel Grace Lutheran Ministries.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Bethel Grace’s outreach to downtown San Francisco can be found at www.bethelgrace.com/BethelGraceLutheranMinistries .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar
Editor
Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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Downtown: Issue # 10 – August, 2010

Posted by admin on August 1, 2010

Downtown
A Quarterly Publication of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches
c/o Historic First Lutheran Church, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104
 DowntownChurches@aol.com
Issue #10 – August, 2010

IN THIS ISSUE:

  1. WELCOME!
  2. MISSION STATEMENT
  3. YOUR EDITOR’S PERSONAL THANKS!
  4. THANKS
  5. NEXT GATHERING
  6. EVANGELISM / OUTREACH IN THE GREAT DOWNTOWN
  7. “LAST ON GRAND”
  8. SPOTLIGHT ON WASHINGTON, D. C.
  9. SPOTLIGHT ON BOSTON, MA
  10. SPOTLIGHT ON LEAWOOD, KS
  11. SPOTLIGHT ON AUSTIN, TX
  12. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a newsletter full of interchange and exchange between downtown Lutheran churches across our great country!  As your editor, it’s my hope you’ll find this a helpful, powerful resource to further equip and empower your ministry in the great downtown.  As your editor, I can only accomplish that goal when you respond to the content of this newsletter and feed me information about what’s going on with your own particular ministry.  Responses, comments, constructive criticisms, etc. can be directed to DowntownChurches@aol.com .


MISSION STATEMENT

“The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches celebrates the mission and ministry of the Lord through congregations in downtown neighborhoods, sharing and developing ideas and programs by communicating, networking and encouraging one another.”


YOUR EDITOR’S PERSONAL THANKS!

On Sunday 9 May (Mother’s Day) I sent a long, emotional email to all of you relating the drama surrounding the adoption of my nephew, Luke Gregory Robbins.  My sister and brother-in-law, Julie and Pastor Greg Robbins, had quickly driven from Southern California to Indiana to adopt newborn Luke, who was born on Tuesday 4 May. On Mother’s Day, the birth mother changed her mind, declining to release her parental rights of Luke to Julie and Greg.  I emailed you, asking for prayers for peace and for a miracle.  Many of you responded to that email.  God is good!  That very same evening, the birth mother changed her mind again, legally releasing her parental rights to Julie and Greg.  We were able to baptize Luke into the family of God at Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena on Father’s Day, 20 June 2010.  THANK YOU to all who lifted up Julie and Greg (and the rest of us family) in prayer, claiming God’s miraculous ways in our lives.  We are grateful for your prayers, your support  and your love!


THANKS

Since the distribution of our last newsletter, the following downtown ministries have graciously added the Association to their newsletter mailing lists or have added the Association to their electronic distribution list, listed here in alphabetical order:

  • “Historic St. Matthew Lutheran Church Newsletter,” Historic St. Matthew Lutheran, Chicago, IL
  • “Lord of Life Lutheran,” Lord of Life Lutheran, Leawood, KS
  • “The Eagle Call,” St. John’s Lutheran, Des Moines, IA

That leaves only about 400 of you out there still to share your news with the Association.  Please rest assured that every single newsletter received IS INDEED READ, with information often gleaned to be included in future issues of “Downtown.”

If you’ve not yet added the Association, won’t you please do so today?  If your congregation publishes a printed newsletter, would you please add us to your mailing list?  Please address them to Rev. Christopher Schaar, Historic First Lutheran, 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA   91104-4317.  If your congregation publishes an electronic newsletter, would you please add us to your e-dis list?  Please send them to DowntownChurches@aol.com.  If your e-news requires an email address to subscribe to receive your newsletter, please send notice of that fact to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will make sure we subscribe.


NEXT GATHERING

The fifth gathering of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches will for the first time be located west of St. Louis.  Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena, California will serve as host.  The gathering is scheduled for the weekend after Easter, starting with a late afternoon happy hour and catered dinner on Friday 29 April 2011, continuing through Sunday evening 1 May 2011.  We announce these dates now for calendar and budget planning purposes.  Registration fee is expected to be $125.00, which will include several meals.  Presenters from Fuller Seminary, Concordia University Irvine, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod are already being secured.  Formal registration packets, including airline, ground transportation and hotel information, will be snail mailed by 1 February 2011 to enable consideration and response prior to the start of Lent.


EVANGELISM / OUTREACH IN THE GREAT DOWNTOWN

A new member of the Association recently contacted our administrative offices to ask about evangelism / outreach ideas that work in downtown “neighborhoods.”  That’s a great question because we all know that evangelism and outreach in the downtown is different and even more difficult from the challenges experienced by suburban and rural ministries.

Not to make this sound easy in any way (for it’s not) but the key to evangelism in downtown “neighborhoods” involves stepping out of the box of traditional evangelism approaches. The key to connecting with daytime business visitors (and the permanent residents moving back into our downtowns) is to get the church open AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE during the week. Signage is very important.  Some ideas to consider to get the church open during the week include:

  1. Hosting a “Reading Room” (the Christian Scientists have done this forever) where people can wander in and find a safe, comfortable place to hang out. Maybe free coffee brewing…..
  2. If you have a gym facility, open it up during the day (lunchtime in particular) for FREE walking, basketball, exercise, especially during cold winters.
  3. Provide a “lunch time respite.” If you have a beautiful garden area or maybe even the above mentioned reading room, invite your business neighbors to make use of that space. Again, comfort and safety are two big things in the downtown.
  4. Provide a “lunch time” music program in the church. Maybe organ music. Maybe piano. Maybe guitar / flute / trumpet, etc. These “performers” could be members of the church or church staff or maybe even your business visitors themselves.  One downtown church has even tapped the skills of local street performers.
  5. For churches with re-gentrification loft housing in the immediate area, one downtown church has found success when church members have voluntarily moved from their current housing into those new loft units, providing a Christian witness presence within the building, while at the same time providing access to those often locked and secured housing units.
  6. Become ACTIVE in the local business and professional organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary International, Kiwanis International, Lions Clubs, networking with business leaders. Sometimes such organizations have events hosted at member organizations and provide publicity.

What success have you found in carrying out evangelism / outreach in your local community??  Share your ideas at Downtownchurches@aol.com and we’ll include them in future issues of “Downtown.”


“LAST  ON  GRANT”

That’s the title of the newly published book by The Reverend Dr. Philip H. Pfatteicher, recently retired Associate Pastor of First English Evangelical Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh, PA.  Last on Grant is the fascinating, exhaustive history of the congregation from 1836 to 2010.  The title comes from the fact that First English Church is the last church community on Grant Street, completely surrounded by high rise office buildings.  Published by Lutheran University Press in Minneapolis, copies may be ordered  from First English Church at flc@flcpittsburgh.org .


SPOTLIGHT  ON WASHINGTON, D.C.

New missions and ministries in historic downtown churches deserve to be celebrated!

First Trinity Lutheran Church in Washington, D.C. has a long and impressive history of starting new congregations.  Since 1852, First Trinity has been in mission and has spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ by starting 5 congregations.  But the members and staff of First Trinity don’t believe that’s enough!  They don’t believe their work of starting missions is over!

A new mission is in the works!   A community targeting people between the ages of 18 and 29 is in the planning!  These target people are both less religious than older Americans, yet also in other ways remain fairly traditional in their religious beliefs and practices.  First Trinity’s study of these target people moving into the nation’s capitol finds that they are looking for community and opportunities for service.  What direction this new mission will take remains to be seen, but this venture is being surrounded in prayer.  Each of your prayers is requested in this new venture, asking God to bless the spread of His saving message.

A member of the ELCA, more information about First Trinity Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Washington, D.C.  can be found at www.firsttrinitydc.org .


SPOTLIGHT  ON  BOSTON,  MA

An early supporter of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches, First Lutheran Church of  Boston has shown its continuing support of mission and ministry in the downtown by granting its pastor, The Reverend Ingo Dutzmann, an extended sabbatical.  Such sabbatical, not uncommon in suburban churches, but not at all common in downtown churches, is meant to bless the pastor with a time away from the burdens of daily ministry and an opportunity to broaden his or her ministry perspective.

In this specific instance, Pastor Dutzmann will be spending his time studying ministries located in various downtowns.  Perhaps some of you have already been contacted by Pastor Dutzmann, asking you to spend some time with him.  He hopes to return to his own congregation at the end of his sabbatical inspired and reinvigorated by the challenges and promises of downtown ministry.

All of us in the Association look forward to hearing Pastor Dutzmann’s discoveries uncovered during his sabbatical.

A member of the LCMS,  more information about First Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Boston can be found at www.flc-boston.org .


SPOTLIGHT  ON  LEAWOOD,  KS

Lord of Life Lutheran Church, a new member of the Association, sponsored a “Congregational Serve Day” on Saturday 1 May.  The event was a service to the elderly and disabled who cannot perform some simple home-ownership tasks like interior or exterior painting or springtime lawn clean-up.  Lord of Life partnered with Metropolitan Lutheran Ministries in this one-day event.

A member of the LCMS,  more information about Lord of Life Lutheran’s outreach to downtown Leawood can be found at www.lordlife.com .


SPOTLIGHT ON AUSTIN, TX

St. Paul Lutheran Church has found a creative solution for the guilt experienced by some members and regular worshipers who contribute electronically.  If electronic giving seems unsatisfying because  people don’t participate in giving an offering during the worship service, St. Paul’s has created an “E-Giving Ticket,” which are available from a table in the narthex.  When the offering plate is passed, the “E-Giving Ticket” can be placed into the offering plate as a token of the commitment of faithful giving.

A member of the LCMS,  more information about St. Paul’s outreach to downtown Austin can be found at www.stpaulaustin.org .


CLOSING

In closing, my sisters and brothers in Christ, my wish for each of you is simple: KEEP PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON FOR HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.  As you preach Jesus, may He bless you in all ways, enabling you to continue to bless those around you!

Joined with you serving Christ and His people,

The Reverend Christopher Schaar

Editor

Senior Pastor, Historic First Lutheran, Pasadena, CA

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