The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a quarterly 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.”

LAST  PAPER  ISSUE!

After just 7 issues, “Downtown” will cease to exist in its present form with this issue.  As a cost-saving measure, we will begin to exclusively distribute “Downtown” electronically after this issue.  Some of you will receive duplicitous copies of this issue as you’ve already signed up to receive this electronically.  For those of you who do not receive this issue electronically, please take a moment right now to send notice of your desired e-mail address to DowntownChurches@aol.com . You will also want to make sure that your spam filters will allow mass distribution from that e-mail address.

And, for the (hopefully) very small number of you who desire to continue to receive a hard-copy of “Downtown” mailed to you, please also make such request (even if you’ve done so before, please do so again so we can get an accurate listing) to DowntownChurches@aol.com .

THANKS!

Many thanks to those downtown ministries which have graciously added the Association to their newsletter mailing lists or who have added the Association to their electronic distribution list, listed here in alphabetical order:

“Bethlehem News & Notes,” Bethlehem Community Church (Lutheran), Euclid, OH; “Faith Alive!,” Faith Lutheran, Phoenix, AZ; “First Church Alert,” First English Evangelical Lutheran, Pittsburgh, PA; “First Lutheran News,” First Lutheran, Muskogee, OK; “First Things,” First Lutheran, Long Beach, CA; “Newsletter” First Lutheran, Van Nuys, CA; “Messenger,” Historic Trinity Lutheran,  Detroit; “Mission Outpost,” Bethel Grace Lutheran, San Francisco, CA; “The First Lutheran,” First Lutheran, Boston, MA; “The Messenger,” First St. Paul’s Lutheran, Chicago, IL; “The Voice of First Trinity,” First Trinity Lutheran, Washington, DC; “The Zion Star,” Zion Lutheran, Portland, OR; “Trinity Highlights,” Holy Trinity Lutheran, Akron, OH; “Trinity Tidings,” Trinity Lutheran, Sacramento, CA; “Trinity Tidings,” Trinity Lutheran, 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 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.

REPORT  ON  THE  GATHERING

In October, a small group of us (14 people, representing 8 ministries from both the ELCA and LCMS) gathered for a wonderful weekend of fellowship, learning and worship at Historic Trinity Church in St. Louis.  Each participant was able to explain to the group his or her particular ministry.  In addition, resource information (newsletters, bulletins, historical booklets) was exchanged freely.

We were blessed by insightful presentations by Dr. Tom Zehnder, Executive Director of LCMS World Mission; Dr. Tony Cook of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis; and Rev. David Birner, Associate Executive Director for International Missions, LCMS World Mission.  Worship experiences on Saturday evening and Sunday morning were enjoyed at both Historic Trinity Church and at Vintage 10, Historic Trinity’s satellite location in the downtown loft district.

Saturday found us twice engaged in “Spitball Sessions,” facilitated by Rev. Christopher Schaar, Leader of the Association, from topics identified earlier by participants.  Specific topics that were discussed by the group included being a “Cathedral Ministry;” the challenges of staffing; pastoral longevity and its effect upon the downtown church; identifying and keeping informed “Alumni” (former members and school alumni); unique ways to fund downtown ministries; how to engage the residents of the gay neighborhoods that surround many of our downtown churches; worship styles; the future direction of the Association; how to create ministry unity in the diverse downtown; how to engage the multiple cultures that surround many of our downtown churches; how to break down the perceived walls that keep people out of our downtown churches and the use of terminology, particularly “Old” versus “Historic.”

If you missed the Gathering for whatever reason and are interested in hearing more about any of the above topics, simply open up an electronic dialogue with Rev. Schaar at DowntownChurches@aol.com .  He’d be glad to fill you in on specific questions or issues you may have.

It was decided that the fifth gathering of the Association would be held in the Spring of 2011 (post-Easter), with location preference being given to the West Coast (most likely California).

SPOTLIGHT  ON  PITTSBURGH,  PA

Associate Pastor at First English Evangelical Lutheran, The Rev. Dr. Philip Phatteicher, is updating the church’s written  history since the previous written history only goes through 1909!  In a humorous story related in the church newsletter, Dr. Phatteicher tells of Pastor Gleason who had occasion to contact the mayor’s office concerning the impossibility of legally making any deliveries to the church since the church was surrounded by no-parking zones.  The response from the mayor discounted the request from the pastor: “There is no church on Grant Street.”  Dr. Phatteicher relates how the church had been on Grant Street since 1887, the last surviving church on the street and one of the two oldest buildings on Grant Street.  Dr. Phatteicher also comments how things have changed as today the city is well aware that there is a church on Grant Street and that the pastor is recognized by city officials and is invited to have a significant role in many boards and agencies of the city.    This shows the power and importance of written congregational histories – not simply to “dwell on the past,” but to know from where we have come.

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

SPOTLIGHT  ON  PORTLAND,  OR

Zion Lutheran recently celebrated it’s “Prayer Shawl Ministry.”  Ladies make the prayer shawls to distribute to the sick.  Each shawl is distributed with a little card that reads, “Our prayer to you … wrap this shawl around you and feel God’s grace and care.  Know that it was made with love and in each stitch a prayer.  May the comfort that it offers remind you God is near.  And if you’re sick or hurting, may God’s love calm your fears.  Know that God’s great mercy is very like this shawl: surrounding, warming, loving your heart, your soul, your all.”   This ministry began in September, 2005, with its 100th shawl just delivered.

In addition, as with many of our downtown churches, the German Gottesdienst is celebrated the second Sunday of the month at 9:00 a.m. The German worshiping group found that many of its hymnals were wearing out or finding “new homes” outside the church pew.  The worshiping group was recently blessed by two boxes (27 lbs.) of new “used” hymnals donated from congregations in the Hannover Region of Germany.

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

SPOTLIGHT  ON  VAN  NUYS,  CA

Dealing with the needs of the homeless and hungry confronted by many downtown churches, First Lutheran hosts free community breakfasts the second and fourth Saturdays of the month.  Staffed by volunteers, 50 to 90 people attend throughout the hour of service.  Not just a soup kitchen or food pantry, an opening Scripture reading, devotion and time of singing is led by Pastor Eric Loza and volunteers.  Volunteer staffers are church members, members of neighboring churches and even the homeless themselves.  Not all “guests” (the term used by Pastor Loza) are homeless or jobless or in need of any help.  Some come just to chew the fat, with the free meal helping their wallet.  Some “guests” come looking for jobs.  Some “guests” have addictions.  Most of the help provided the “guests,” though, is in simple conversation, knowing that it’s a lonely existence to live on the streets.  One of the highlights of this relatively new mission outreach is a baby shower for a couple who had been living on the streets but later found housing.

A member of the LCMS, more information about First Lutheran’s outreach to Van Nuys can be found at www.facebook.com/group.php?v=info&gid=65922287968 .

SPOTLIGHT  ON  AKRON,  OH

Holy Trinity Lutheran serves the aging and infirm by making medical equipment available for use by members and friends of members – items like walkers, quad canes, bedside commodes, crutches, shower chairs, raised toilet seats and wheelchairs.  The equipment available for free check-out, with the only request that equipment be returned clean.  The church is always looking for additional equipment to be donated.

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

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 #6 – August, 2009

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of Downtown, a quarterly 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.”

TIME  IS  TICKING: REGISTER  ELECTRONICALLY!

As our total transition to electronic format is just months away (these paper copies will largely disappear by the end of this year), please take a moment right now to send an email to DowntownChurches@aol.com requesting your email be added to our e-distribution list.  Please include your name and church that you represent in your email.

Please note that the above request is different from the past.  Due to the revamping of the Center for U.S. Missions, they will no longer be distributing “Downtown” for us.  If you have previously registered with the Center, there is no need to re-register as we have all your information already.

PLEASE  DO  US  A  FAVOR!

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.

This favor will enable us to know better what’s going on in our downtown Lutheran ministries and include spotlight features in future issues of “Downtown.”  Thanks!

GATHERING  IN  OCTOBER!

Information about the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches’ fourth gathering is found included with this issue of DOWNTOWN.  Please note that registrations must be postmarked by Thursday 1 October 2009.  At this time, online registration and payments are not possible (maybe next gathering…………).

CROSS-CULTURAL  MISSION  OUTREACH

Our last newsletter included a blurb about the struggles and successes of downtown ministries in reaching out to their cross-cultural neighbors.  That blurb caught the attention and merited the appreciation of The Reverend Dr. Larry Merino, Associate Pastor of Outreach at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, IN and Executive Director of Harvest Mission International, Inc., “a cross-cultural education and consultancy group committed to equipping and mobilizing God’s people for the cross-cultural mission field in their own backyards.”  Harvest Mission International has provided consultation to LCMS World Mission, LCMS congregations, districts and mission organizations located in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, New York, Missouri, Minnesota, Kentucky, Colorado and California.  They sponsor Biblically-based and adult-oriented training workshops recognizing “The Four Jolts of Culture Shock:” Tensions about Time; Risky Relationships; Conquering Communication; Vaulting Vulnerability.

Readers of DOWNTOWN are encouraged to check out their website at www.harvest-mission.org and contact them to help you with your cross-cultural mission development.

SPOTLIGHT  ON   SACRAMENTO, CA

It was the poet John Donne who once wrote “No man is an island.”  Proving that fact at Trinity Lutheran Church in downtown Sacramento (founded 1915), the July issue of “Trinity Tidings” announced that its educational partner, Lutheran High School in Elk Grove, saddled up to join the fun of the Elk Grove Western Festival this year with their first ever float entry, never dreaming that it would not only win first place in the Senior School category, but also best overall float.  The school’s stagecoach theme titled ‘Delivering Quality Christian Education in Elk Grove,’ designed by sophomore Emily Ames, highlighted Elk Grove’s place as an historical stop on the stage line.  The math department calculated the dimensions and materials needed for the float while the art department created the luggage decorations.

A member of the LCMS, with it’s mission statement “Our mission is to serve God by outreach through spreading the Gospel of Christ by spirit-filled worship, education, fellowship and service,

more information about Trinity Lutheran’s outreach to Sacramento can be found at www.tlc-ms.com.

SPOTLIGHT  ON  NEW  YORK,  NY

Referred to us by The Reverend Stephen Bouman, Executive Director of Evangelical Outreach and Congregational Mission at the ELCA International Headquarters, St. Peter’s Church, at the corner of Lexington Avenue and 54th Street in Manhattan, is indeed truly worthy of note.  In addition to its notable, exciting downtown mission and ministry, St. Peter’s served as “Miss January” of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans’ 2009 calendar (if you didn’t see it, you will want to find the calendar and check it out!).

Pastored by The Reverend Amandus J. Derr (hopefully a presenter at one of our future gatherings of the Association), St. Peter’s prominently provides easy, detailed directions to the church on its web site via the subway, as well as bus lines (the major way New Yorkers get around).  They make it very clear that St. Peter’s is wheelchair accessible and that large print bulletins are available.  They even go further to invite a telephone call during which they will endeavor to help all with questions.

St. Peter’s Church posts on its web site prayer requests, summer hours, directions for downloading bulletins and sermons, as well as directions for accessing its wiki site.

Weekly events include two morning “masses,” an afternoon “mass” in Spanish, evening Jazz Vespers, a Jazz Supper, daily lunchtime “masses” at 12:15 p.m. (each day with a different focus), an art reception and a festival of dances, featuring Latin Folklorica.  There is also an open invitation for all who are seeking community and purpose in New York City.

A member of the ELCA, more information about St. Peter’s  Lutheran’s outreach to New York City can be found at  www.saintpeters.org.

SPOTLIGHT  ON  BOSTON, MA

Living out a typical characteristic of many downtown Lutheran churches, First Lutheran Church of Boston has dedicated itself to be a public repository and sharing facility of the finest music and worship traditions entrusted to God’s people.  Their Minister of Music, Bálint Karosi, won first place for organ at the Bach Competition in Leipzig in July, 2008, besting the other 16 competitors in attendance.

In June, 2009, First Lutheran hosted the Boston Early Music Festival.  The world-renowned festival attracted highly acclaimed musicians, early music experts and music aficionados from all over the world.  Spread over multiple days, the festival featured mini organ festivals as well as special presentations including the harpsichord, the forte-piano, the clavichord, and chorales.  Professors from the Eastman School of Music, Boston University, Westminster Choir College, University of North Carolina, Greensboro and  Oberlin Conservatory of Music participated in the festival.

Of course, its dedication to fine music and worship is only a small part of First Lutheran’s overall mission and ministry to downtown Boston.  A member of the LCMS, more information about First Lutheran’s outreach to Boston can be found at  www.flc-boston.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

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 #5 – February, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE:

1. A PLANNED GATHERING
2. SPOTLIGHT ON HOUSTON, TX
3. SPOTLIGHT ON MOLINE, IL
4. SPOTLIGHT ON MILWAUKEE, WI
5. CLOSING

A PLANNED GATHERING

As part of its 170th Anniversary during 2009, Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Louis (Rev. David Marth, Senior Pastor) has extended a gracious invitation to host a gathering of downtown ministries in October, 2009. This will be our first gathering since the Spring of 1999 at Trinity Downtown in Orlando.

Before dates are officially announced, a question needs to be answered. That question is whether it is preferable to have a mid-week gathering or a gathering that extends over a weekend. The mid-week gathering might enable more pastors to attend without having to arrange pulpit coverage. The weekend gathering allows us all to see a powerful downtown church in action through worship. Would you please email your preference for a mid-week or weekend gathering to DowntownChurches@aol.com ? We will announce dates for this gathering by 15 April.

SPOTLIGHT ON HOUSTON, TX

Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Houston (founded 1879) uses a variety of creative outreaches to minister to the unsaved of Houston. Those outreaches include:

• “Family Fun Night” – free pizza and free movie in the School Gym.
• “NineThirtyOne” – a worshiping community and the first multi-site of Trinity; an outgrowth of a Bible Study based upon Matthew chapter 9.
• “Car Care” – A ministry of listening to concerns about automobiles with recommendations offered from trustworthy sources. Car maintenance and car cleaning is offered the second Saturday every month.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Trinity Lutheran’s outreach to Houston can be found at www.trinitydt,org .

SPOTLIGHT ON MOLINE, IL

Proving the fact that “downtowns” and “downtown ministries” are not only located in major metropolitan areas, First Lutheran Church in Moline, Illinois was founded in 1850. 159 years after its founding, First Lutheran proclaims its “mission is to worship God, to serve others, to support one another and to invite all people to share in this Christian ministry.” Fulfilling that mission, First Lutheran provides a nursery for the children of students who are in Black Hawk College’s English as a Second Language program, sending reading assistants weekly to Lincoln-Irving School and participating in Trinity Medical Center’s Parish Nurse Program. First Lutheran regularly supports local hunger ministries such as collecting food for the Churches United Food Pantry. It annually supports the Churches United Crop Walk for Hunger and the Churches United Souper Bowl of Caring and Habitat for Humanity.

A member of the ELCA, more information about First Lutheran’s outreach to Moline can be found at firstlutheranmoline.org .

SPOTLIGHT ON MILWAUKEE, WI

Founded in 1849, Grace Lutheran Church in Milwaukee loves to proclaim that “God’s grace welcomes you, no matter who you are or where you have come from,” a theme commonly proclaimed by downtown churches.

Grace Lutheran’s blend of progressive and classic, contemporary and traditional, along with a professional excellence in everything from worship to its website, has attracted hundreds of visitors and new members to Grace Church in recent years, leading to a planned facility expansion that will include larger gathering areas and offices, community outreach programs and parking. Facing the standard challenge of funding any kind of building and ministry expansion, Grace plans to intentionally “under-furnish” certain rooms and features of the new “Grace Center.” The new center will immediately function in many ways, with the intent that, as soon as they can afford to install new equipment, additionally improved ministry and mission to more people will be provided. To that end, a wish list is posted on their web site, with ideas presented about how individuals and groups might provide that funding.

In addition at Grace, through a program called “Boundaries with Kids,” parents are provided needed help for raising children to take responsibility for their actions, attitudes and emotions. The class teaches instilling in children the kind of Christ-like character that helps them lead balanced, productive and fulfilling adult lives.

A member of the WELS, more information about Grace Lutheran’s outreach to Milwaukee can be found at www.gracedowntown.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

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 #4 – January, 2009

IN THIS ISSUE:

1. WELCOME
2. WEBSITE
3. A PLANNED GATHERING
4. SPOTLIGHT FEATURE
5. SPOTLIGHT ON ORLANDO, FL
6. CLOSING

WELCOME

A warm welcome to this issue of Downtown, a quarterly 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 .

WEBSITE

Please check out the Association’s brand new website at www.downtownlutheranchurches.org . Our thanks to Chad Schmutzer, a member of Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena, CA and a resident computer guru at the California Institute of Technology (CalTech) for getting this up and running for us. This website is BRAND NEW and still very much under construction. We’d appreciate your insights as to what you’d like to see included on the site. Four ideas already bantered about are 1) a blog to enhance the two-way exchange of ideas, 2) a photo gallery of downtown churches, 3) links to downtown ministry websites and 4) a monthly series featuring the mission and ministry of a downtown church. Please forward your ideas to DowntownChurches@aol.com .

A PLANNED GATHERING

As part of its 170th Anniversary during 2009, Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Louis (Rev. David Marth, Senior Pastor) has extended a gracious invitation to host a gathering of downtown ministries in October, 2009. This will be our first gathering since the Spring of 1999 at Trinity Downtown in Orlando.

Before dates are officially announced, a question needs to be answered. That question is whether it is preferable to have a mid-week gathering or a gathering that extends over a weekend. The mid-week gathering might enable more pastors to attend without having to arrange pulpit coverage. The weekend gathering allows us all to see a powerful downtown church in action through worship. Would you please email your preference for a mid-week or weekend gathering to DowntownChurches@aol.com ? We will announce dates for this gathering by 15 April.

SPOTLIGHT FEATURE

In response to many of your comments, during 2009, “Downtown” will include ministry spotlights of different downtown ministries across the country. Many of you have commented that you desire to know what other downtown ministries are doing to reach the unsaved. We hope this feature will prove helpful!

SPOTLIGHT ON ORLANDO, FL

Celebrating its 90th Anniversary during 2009, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and School (a.k.a. “Trinity Downtown”) in Orlando sponsored a program called “The Gift” at the Lake Eola Bandshell on Friday 5 December 2008. More than 700 guests and 130 cast members brought Trinity’s gift of contemporary and nostalgic music presentations to downtown Orlando. The show featured the Trinity “New Dimensions” Jazz Ensemble, “The Way,” the 20-piece Power Stars Steel Orchestra, the Vietnamese Children’s Choir and the “Jewels of Judah” Praise Dance Troop. Pastor Jeff Moore shared the true story of Christmas from St. Luke with children from Trinity’s Child Development Center. Lisa Moore led the Trinity School Choir in some rousing Christmas carols.

A member of the LCMS, more information about Trinity Downtown and its outreach to Orlando can be found at www.trinitydowntown.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

Welcome

A warm welcome to this issue of Downtown, a quarterly 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 .

Website

Please check out the Association’s brand new website at www.downtownlutheranchurches.org Our thanks to Chad Schmutzer, a member of Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena, CA and a resident computer guru at the California Institute of Technology (CalTech) for getting this up and running for us. This website is BRAND NEW and still very much under construction. We’d appreciate your insights as to what you’d like to see included on the site. Four ideas already bantered about are 1) a blog to enhance the two-way exchange of ideas, 2) a photo gallery of downtown churches, 3) links to downtown ministry websites and 4) a monthly series featuring the mission and ministry of a downtown church. Please forward your ideas to DowntownChurches@aol.com .

Strategic Partnership Effected

The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches has become a strategic partner of the Center for U.S. Missions (C4USM) in Irvine, California.

This new association will lend the ADLC additional credibility and visibility and allow it to use the C4USM’s electronic distribution lists for its quarterly newsletter (see below). In addition, the dream of reviving regular gatherings of downtown churches across the country will become a reality. The C4USM is very interested in further expanding the cross-denominational reach of the ADLC.

Thank God for this development!

Changes to “Downtown”

One outcome of the strategic partnership with the Center for U.S. Missions is the ability to electronically distribute our “Downtown” newsletter. This shift will save approximately $200 per quarter in printing and mailing costs. This shift does carry a danger, though, of losing touch with some of our downtown churches as each person needs to specifically register to receive the newsletter electronically. We anticipate paper distribution of “Downtown” to continue as is for the next year as we work toward the shift to electronic distribution. What can you do to help?

First of all, take a moment right now to log onto the Center’s website – www.c4usm.org . Click on the link for “Newsletters.” Scroll down to “Downtown” and follow the link to subscribe. While you’re on the Center’s website, peruse other valuable resources and newsletters available to you, many of them free!

Second, please run a bulletin or newsletter announcement about the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches and the Center for U.S. Missions for all your members to participate in the great vision of mission work within the United States, particularly in our downtown neighborhoods. These resources are being made available not just for pastors and church leaders, but for all members. Encourage your individual members to receive “Downtown.”

Third, if you are unable to receive the newsletter electronically for whatever reason or rather prefer to receive “Downtown” via hard copy, please send that request to DowntownChurches@aol.com and we will make sure you’re not left out of the information loop.

2009 Budget Planning

Back in 1999, the idea was floated to create an actual fee membership for the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches. While that idea was still being developed, several churches stepped up and made contributions to the Association, those funds which are currently being used to distribute “Downtown” today.

As many of our churches begin budget planning for calendar year 2009, would you please consider adding a modest line item ($25, $50, $100, or whatever you feel is appropriate) to support the mission and ministry of the Association? Such contributions would be held in an accountable trust by Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena to offset the ongoing costs of “Downtown” and other communications as well as funding costs associated with anticipated conferences / gatherings. Such contributions would entitle the member congregations to discounted registration fees for conferences / gatherings. More on this in the next issue.

Tackling A Downtown Challenge: Parking!

By far, the number one problem mentioned by downtown church leaders when asked to identify challenges was PARKING! Most of our downtown churches were built prior to the automobile age, in the previous age of “parishes” where most people walked to their local, neighborhood church. As that transition to the commuter automobile age dawned upon the church, many of us have struggled with issues related to parking. The great majority of our downtown churches have inadequate or non-existent parking facilities, without the space or funding to provide additional parking. So, what can be done? Here’s the solutions of some churches:

Historic Trinity Church, in the Soulard neighborhood of St. Louis, had a unique opportunity a number of years ago. Adjacent to its small parking lot / school playground across the street from the church was a dilapidated house gutted by fire. There were safety concerns that a wall would tumble into the parking lot or onto pedestrians. That lot was purchased. The remaining building demolished and the parking lot expanded. A true win-win situation.

Historic Trinity Church on Gratiot in Detroit and Lake Avenue Congregational Church in Pasadena, CA have partnered with neighboring businesses that are closed on Sundays, allowing the churches to use their parking lots. Historic Trinity provides uniformed security. Lake Avenue Church sets up directional signs on Sunday mornings and provides a shuttle service from their remote parking facility.

All Saints Episcopal Church in Pasadena, CA offers free validated parking to parishioners in an underground hotel / restaurant parking facility adjacent to their church.

First Presbyterian Church in Downtown Orlando partnered with the City of Orlando and Orange County. Together, they constructed a multi-storied parking structure. Each corporation owns one third of the spaces. A legal arrangement was effected where First Presbyterian yields its third to the city and county during the week while the city and county yield their two-thirds to the church on evenings and weekends. There was a legal challenge to this arrangement under the “separation of church and state,” which challenge a judge later ruled as invalid.

Parking is admittedly a BIG problem. Dr. Robert Schuller has estimated the cost of every parking space on the campus of the Crystal Cathedral at not less than $10,000. While parking is a problem, it must not become an insurmountable problem to creative downtown church leaders. What solution has your congregation developed? Share it with the rest of us by completing the enclosed survey or emailing DowntownChurches@aol.com .

Whatever solution(s) you develop, make sure that information is clearly communicated to potential worshipers on your website. This is truly a MUST!

Funding the Downtown Church!

A close second to the challenge of parking is the very real challenge of funding downtown churches. Besides the direct mission and ministry costs of staff and programs, most of us struggle with the maintenance costs of old behemoth buildings that are always in need of repair. And we haven’t even yet discussed the monthly costs of electricity, heating, cooling and “watering” such massive complexes. An even bigger challenge has been presented us with the current economic downturn, with all staples of daily life (first and foremost gasoline) climbing astronomically and contributions sometimes being reduced.

The best immediate solution to the challenge of funding is very clear communication to the members of our churches as to the actual cost of operating. This can be communicated as an annual, monthly, weekly or even daily cost. Many church members have no clue what actual costs are and are astonished to be told. Many churches have encountered very positive results when the church leaders have been very transparent with explaining these actual costs. Give it a try, if you’ve not already!

How about partnering with a non-profit? Most of our church facilities are large and largely unused (except as storage facilities for no-longer needed equipment and, dare I say, “junk”). Many of our facilities can be wonderfully reinvented to provide office or program space for others operating in our downtown neighborhoods, those without the luxury of the buildings we enjoy. Again, this can be a real win-win situation, generating moderate to substantial third-source income through the renting of facilitieswhile at the same time exposing many of our neighbors to our facilities, perhaps even opening up the welcome door for potential church members who previously didn’t know your church existed.

How about “special projects?” These are usually major projects far above and beyond your annual budget. Do you provide opportunity for people to specifically adopt one of those projects? Those projects can range from the purchase of a new 100-cup coffee maker to the replacement of a toilet to the re-leading of a stained glass window. Historic Trinity Church in Detroit regularly maintains a “special projects” list in its newsletter. And, since most of us appreciate some recognition for our gifts, think about small plaques to acknowledge the gift of that project.

How about credit card contributions? With credit cards being a standard of daily life, many churches now allow church members and regular visitors to charge their contributions either by the church owning its own credit card keypad or by using a service like PayPal. There is a charge associated with this variety of contributions, but many folks would rather charge their contributions and receive perks like airline miles, etc. In addition, a standing, monthly charged contribution better insures stable income for the church.

How about the vast, usually untapped resource of your “alumni?” You know, the people who “used to be members” of your church and have since relocated to the suburbs, or those who attended your school “back in the day.” Who are the leaders of industry and business in your town who have ties to your church? Have you approached them for support? Many are more than willing to help, if asked. Do you have a former member mail list? If not, ask some of your longest-term members to help you develop such a list for those with whom they stay in contact. Many of these “alumni” still have a great love and concern for their “mother church” and may be willing to make a contribution once a year or more often. Along with simple requests for funding, make sure you clearly communicate what you as a downtown church are actively doing today. Send your “alumni” a Christmas card, inviting them “home” for services. Maybe someone will completely underwrite the cost of a ministry or outreach program for a year to ensure that the church they love will continue to exist into the future.

How about special grants? The Pacific Southwest District of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod distributes annual grants to support youth programs. Funds were generated from the sale of the District’s old Walther League house in downtown Los Angeles. Annual interest from those funds are distributed to support ongoing youth programs. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans offers an ANNUAL matching cash benefit to all Lutheran congregations, just for the asking. Thrivent funds may be attached to a fund-raising event (a car wash or bake sale or rummage sale) or can also be applied for simply in response to a special fund appeal. Talk to your local congregational coordinator or your local Thrivent representative for more information. Many other organizations, both inside and outside the church, offer similar grants. Have you ever tried applying? Even if you’ve been denied in the past, keep trying. The successful key to getting your grant application approved is that you must be doing something vital TODAY, however small or large. A granting organization has yet to be located that likes to support the past or even the status quo.

Regarding the maintenance of older buildings, have you turned to your local historical society for guidance and advice? If your buildings qualify as, or have been declared historic landmarks, there are grant programs available to help with maintenance and, especially, preservation costs. Often these grants require matching funds, but most of our church members are willing to contribute a dollar or twenty dollars (and maybe even more) if they know their gift will be matched dollar for dollar, or even more.

What solution has your congregation developed to the challenge of funding? Share it with the rest of us by completing the enclosed survey or emailing DowntownChurches@aol.com .

Healing Hurting People Through “Comfort Critters”

Though not a “downtown church,” Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Beaverton, OR has developed a greatly creative ministry called “Comfort Critters.” Congregation members donate small cute and cuddly stuffed animals which are collected in a basket in the church narthex. A Christ Care group attaches a little card to each critter, explaining that the critter has been “living” at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, listening to God’s Word and singing His praises. A Scripture passage is printed on the back of the card. Congregation members can take those critters to people they know who are hurting, either through illness or grief or whatever. To the one who receives the critter, it is a very thoughtful way of comforting them in dark days. For the congregation, it’s a great mission outreach. Congregation members are able to report back to the church the persons to whom they have given the critter. In our downtown areas, where we daily deal with hurting people, this could become a very powerful tool. If you’d like more information about this ministry (including samples of the attachment card), email DowntownChurches@aol.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

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 #2 – June, 2008

IN THIS ISSUE:

1. WELCOME
2. A LIL’ HISTORY
3. ADLC IS ALL-INCLUSIVE!
4. EXCITING NEWS!
5. DEDICATORY THANKS
6. REQUEST FOR FUTURE DEDICATIONS
7. FINE!  DON’T TAKE MY WORK FOR IT!
8. QUESTIONS ASKED AND CHALLENGES NOTED
9. CHRISTUS PRIMUS AWARD
10. SAVE A TREE AND A STAMP
11. THANKS FOR THE CONTRIBUTIONS
12. GIFTS APPRECIATED
13. “DOWNTOWN” SCHEDULE
14. CLOSING

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this issue of “Downtown,” a quarterly 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 .

A  LIL’  HISTORY

The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches was founded in 1996 under the auspices of The Department of Evangelism of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, an outgrowth of the great vision of Dr. David Eberhard at Historic Trinity, Detroit.   The belief of those involved in the start of this organization was that our cities were great, often untapped, often ignored mission fields.  It was also clear that many “downtown” churches were uniquely different from other “urban” ministries. Hence the separate organization.

ADLC IS ALL-INCLUSIVE!

Permit me the opportunity to clarify the scope of The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches since some of you raised the issue following the receipt of our inaugural issue in January.  While the origination of the Association was under the auspices of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, it has never been the intent of the ADLC to be denominational specific or to promote “party politics.”  In fact, our first conference in October, 1996, involved participants and speakers from The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Episcopal Church.

Since the “re-invention” of the ADLC under the interest of Wheat Ridge Ministries, a concerted effort has been made to identify and involve our brothers and sisters in The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as a way of cross-pollinating and enhancing our network.  Each newsletter is now mailed to 330 downtown churches across our great country, as well as the District Presidents of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, the Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Presiding Bishops of both the LCMS and ELCA.

EXCITING  NEWS!

The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches has been “adopted” by the Center for U.S. Missions (C4USM) in Irvine, California.

This new association will lend the ADLC additional credibility and visibility and allow it to use the C4USM’s electronic distribution lists for its quarterly newsletter.  In addition, the dream of reviving regular gatherings of downtown churches across the country will become a reality.  The C4USM is very interested in further expanding the cross-denominational reach of the ADLC.

Details are currently being worked out with Pastor Mike Ruhl (Exec. Director of the C4USM) and with other prominent downtown church leaders to define the mission statement of the ADLC and embark upon this new direction.  If you have suggestions as to what you feel the mission of the ADLC should be, please fire off an email to DowntownChurches@aol.com .

Thank God for this development!

DEDICATORY THANKS

You might remember that the January, 2008  inaugural issue of “Downtown” was dedicated in loving memory of The Reverend Dr. David V. Koch, who was granted the Crown of Eternal Life on 27 September 2007.   David’s widow, Ruth, sent the following note of thanks:

REQUEST  FOR  FUTURE  DEDICATIONS

If you have suggestions for future issues of “Downtown” to be dedicated to other great veterans of downtown ministry (clergy or lay, living or faithfully departed), please pass that information along to me at DowntownChurches@aol.com .

FINE!  DON’T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT!

Our inaugural issue celebrated the rebirth of many of our downtown areas with revitalization of all our downtown areas as a soon-approaching reality.

Perhaps you saw the article about the rebirth trends of downtowns and how congregations are catching onto those trends.  If you did not see the article, a copy that appeared in the Los Angeles Times is included in this mailing.  Make sure to check it out and celebrate what God is doing in our downtowns!

QUESTIONS ASKED AND CHALLENGES NOTED

In the days following our inaugural issue, many of you took the time to respond to many questions I asked.  In future issues, these questions and challenges will be addressed:

• Developing “ownership.”
• What is “spirituality” in a diverse community?
• How do you do stewardship in a diverse community (maintaining healthy finances)?
• Perceptions of a lack of safety in the community & security for staff and members.
• Lack of support from colleagues.
• Competition with other downtown “venues.”
• Many in the civic community do not see the contributions made by the church or devalue them.
• Evangelism to the downtown and marketing the downtown church (outreach ideas).
• Overcoming the “mother church” attitude (the “stuffed shirt” syndrome and pride that prevents the downtown church from overcoming apathy).
• Men’s ministry / women’s ministry / youth ministry.
• Loss of Leadership.
• Membership age of the congregation.
• Dealing with those who want to go back to the past.
• Dreaming new dreams.
• Parking.
• Long time members viewing themselves as owners of the buildings instead of being “disciple-making” people.
• Maintaining facilities (including graffiti and trash).
• Building and stabilizing families and communities.
• Helping people understand (or care) that “Lutheran” is not a cult or antiquated term.
• Bringing people to evening events.
• Building a sense of unity and fellowship among diverse members, some of whom live at a distance.
• The “clinical depression” of the community.

If you have found success with any of these challenges, PLEASE SHARE THEM with the rest of us!  Please email your successes to Downtownchurches@aol.com or use the enclosed response sheet.

CHRISTUS  PRIMUS  AWARD

Concordia University of Ann Arbor, Michigan awarded the Christus Primus Award to The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard, a former Detroit City Council member and the visionary behind the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches, at their Spring Commencement on May 3, 2008.  The Rev. Dr. Thomas R. Ahlersmeyer, President of Concordia noted: “This award is given to recognize your many years of distinguished service to the Lord and His Church, especially the creative and courageous leadership you have provided as a churchman and statesman in the city, one of our church body’s most neglected mission fields and for your mission at Historic Trinity to develop a meaningful paradigm for downtown churches in America.”

Congratulations, Dr. Eberhard!

SAVE  A  TREE  AND  A  STAMP

If you would prefer to receive this newsletter and other important communications from the ADLC via e-mail in electronic form, please e-mail your request to Downtownchurches@aol.com .

THANKS  FOR  THE  CONTRIBUTIONS

This newsletter comes your way today thanks in part to monetary gifts made by The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard, by Pastor Christopher Schaar, and by St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Toledo, OH.

GIFTS  APPRECIATED

At this point, funds collected by the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches are underwriting the cost of the printing and mailing of this newsletter.   At this particular time, each of these mailings cost about $300.00 to reach the nearly 450 on our mailing list.  If you have found this an insightful tool, gifts of any size would be appreciated to help defray the ongoing cost of this resource.  You may make checks payable to Historic First Lutheran and mail to 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104, designated for “Downtown.” Personal gifts will be receipted for tax purposes.  Individual and congregational donors will be acknowledged in future issues.

“DOWNTOWN” SCHEDULE

The plan for “Downtown” is that is will be a quarterly newsletter.  The plan is that an issue will be published the first month of each quarter.  As you can tell, this quarter didn’t work too well on that schedule, mainly due to the after-effects of Easter.  We hope the next issue, which will begin to tackle some of the questions and challenges printed on page 3, will be in the mail by the end of July.

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 IT IS WHO IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.

As you preach Him, 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

WELCOME!

A warm welcome to this inaugural issue of “Downtown,” a new, quarterly 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 .

A  LIL’  HISTORY

The Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches was founded in 1996, an outgrowth of the great vision of Dr. David Eberhard at Historic Trinity, Detroit.  Besides myself, supporting vision for the Association has been provided through the years by Sam Goltermann (⊥), Dave Marth and King Schoenfeld of Historic Trinity, St. Louis, Del Pauling (now retired) of First St. Paul’s Chicago, Ron Wiese of Trinity, Memphis, and Ron Fink (now retired) of Trinity Downtown, Orlando.

DEDICATED  IN  LOVING  MEMORY

This inaugural issue of “Downtown” is dedicated in loving memory of one of my great friends and mentors in life and ministry, The Reverend Dr. David V. Koch.  David was a truly metropolitan, downtown pastor.  His ministries across our great country showed and proved his pastoral, shepherding heart.  David served congregations in New York City, Shelbyville and Greenburg, IN, Washington, D.C., Milwaukee, Denver and Ann Arbor, MI.  In addition, he served The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod for 4 years as Chief Editor of Concordia Publishing House.  David was granted eternal rest from his labors on 27 September 2007, at the age of 68.  God’s peace and joy is being provided his wife, Ruth (of downtown Denver), his daughter and son-in-law, Anne and Scott (also of downtown Denver) and his daughter, Abby (of downtown Chicago) and three precious granddaughters.

If you have suggestions for future issues of “Downtown” to be dedicated in memory of other great veterans of downtown ministry, please do not hesitate to pass that information along to me at DowntownChurches@aol.com .

GREAT  NEWS:  REVITALIZATION  HITS  DOWNTOWNS!

The great news I can share with you today is that downtowns across our great country are revitalizing at an amazingly rapid pace.  If your particular downtown region hasn’t yet benefitted from this trend, just hang on!  It’s on its way!

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 .

NO  LOOK-A-LIKES

Every time something gets mailed out on behalf of the Association of Downtown Lutheran Churches, I always get letters and e-mails asking that specific churches be removed from our contact lists.  The common refrain is “We’re not a ‘downtown’ church.”

Now I admit that there may indeed be some errors in our data base.  For the most part, however, our data has been carefully gathered from the District Presidents, the Bishops and the appropriate staff members of both the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.  These are people in the know.  We’ve not simply gone through annuals and picked churches that fall within certain zip codes.  Knowledgeable local church leaders have been asked to supply us with recommendations based upon specific criteria.

If you’re still not quite sure why you’re receiving this newsletter, please review the enclosed yellow flyer. For some reason, even if you disagree with your designation as a “downtown” church, know that someone has identified you for some reason as a “downtown” ministry. My own congregation is not technically “downtown,” but rather eight blocks north of “downtown” in what is known as the “first ring” of residential neighborhoods around downtown.  We fit so many of the other criteria that we have discovered what a joy it is to call ourselves a “downtown” church.

What I have learned during the past 14 years I’ve pastored a “downtown” church is that there is no such thing as a “typical” downtown church.  There is no one model.  There are no two look-a-likes.  Just because there’s something about another “downtown” church you don’t like doesn’t mean that you’re not a “downtown” church.

I have also learned that being a “downtown” church is nothing of which to be ashamed!   “Downtown” does not mean “depressed.”  “Downtown” does mean “declining.”  “Downtown” does not even mean “unsafe” or “undesirable.”  Those may be the perceptions of many people, but those in the know tell me that some of the most exciting mission and ministry in the world is happening right now in our downtowns.

What unique ministries have you “invented” or “reinvented” to meet the needs of people in your own specific circle of God’s Kingdom?  Email DowntownChurches@aol.com .

THE  COMPUTER  AS  EVANGELISM

A great majority of those repopulating our cities are people born after 1970.  These are the people who have seen firsthand what stress and toil commuting in from the “‘burbs” have caused their parents.  These are the people who are becoming our newest neighbors.  Most of them are extremely computer savvy.  The computer is how they order their merchandise, how they find dates and spouses, how they make restaurant reservations and purchase movie tickets and even how they find their new church home.

What creative electronic outreaches have you created?  Have you effectively used on-line directories?  How about Craigslist?  Facebook?  My Space?  You Tube?  God Tube?  Share your experiences and ideas at DowntownChurches@aol.com .

There are some great “downtown” church websites out there that might give you some good ideas.  This month, check out historicfirstlutheran.org, historictrinitystlouis.org, historictrinity.org, flcpittsburgh.org and flc-boston.org.  Check out these websites, then send your own website for others to peruse to DowntownChurches@aol.com .

The key to a great website is a great webmaster.  If there’s not at least one webmaster in your congregation (ask your high school or college age folks), consider advertising for one at a local high school or college.  It will be well worth your investment to join the great frontier of the world wide web.

GIFTS  APPRECIATED

At this point, Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena is underwriting the cost of the printing and mailing of this newsletter.    At this particular time, each of these newsletters cost about 25 cents.  That’s not a great expense, but multiply it by about 500 and you’re now starting to talk cost.  We’re not going to charge an annual subscription, but if you have found this an insightful tool, gifts of any size would be appreciated to help defray the ongoing cost of this resource.  You may make checks payable to Historic First Lutheran and mail to 808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104, designated for “Downtown.”  Personal gifts will be receipted for tax purposes.  Individual and congregational donors will be acknowledged in future issues.

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 IT IS WHO IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.

As you preach Him, 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