St . J ames Lutheran Church 1315 SW Park Ave , Port l and Or 97201

S t. J a m e s N e w s l e t t e r

April 2018

From the Pastor’s Desk...

What can be said about Easter that has not already been

said? That is the challenge that faces the pastor every year

at this time. In one sense, why should we feel such pres-

sure to say something “new” when the euangelion, the

“good news” that spills forth from the gospels themselves

never loses its capacity to astonish and amaze? After all, a

beloved mid-19th century hymn asks,

“Tell me the old, old story,

Of unseen things above,

Of Jesus and His glory,

Of Jesus and His love;

Tell me the story simply,

As to a little child,

For I am weak and weary,

And helpless and defiled.”

But it’s true, isn’t it, that every year, we need to hear the old story again in a

fresh way, so that once again, we can grasp it anew. For as the hymn contin-

ues,

“Tell me the story often,

For I forget so soon,

The ‘early dew’ of morning

Has passed away at noon.”

Our current moment seems to be rife with the rebirth of protest move-

ments. The great 20th century German theologian, Jürgen Moltmann, takes

up the image of protest as a present-day way to understand God’s action in

Jesus’ death and resurrection. He writes:

“The Easter faith recognizes that the raising of the crucified Christ from

the dead provides the great alternative to this world of death. This faith

sees the raising of Christ as God’s protest against death, and against all the

people who work for death; for the Easter faith recognizes God’s passion

for the life of the person who is threatened by death and with death. And

faith participates in this love by getting up out of the apathy of misery and

out of the cynicism of prosperity, and fighting against death’s accomplices,

here and now, in this life.”

I love Moltmann’s call for those with “Easter faith” to

Artist of the Month

Craig Gerke

&Special

Reception

Honoring

Tim

Nickel,

Sunday, April 15, 6pm

See page 10 for details

Worship Services at

St. James:

Worship w/Holy

Communion

Sunday

9:30 am

Mid-Week

Eucharist

Wednesday

12pm

Jazz Vesper

Sunday, April 15, 5pm

Bach Cantata

Sunday, April 29, 5pm

See page 3 for details

Cont’d. on page 5

SUNDAY APRIL 15

Sermon by Pastoral

Candidate, Meet &

Greet following

SUNDAY APRIL 22

CONGREGATIONAL

MEETING, 11am

VOTE on PASTORAL

CANDIDATE

See pages 6 & 8

2

Contact us at St. James Lutheran Church 1315 SW Park Ave Portland, Or 97201

503-227-2439 Fax 503-227-0856 cheseas@stjamespdx.org

March Council Minutes

The March 20 meeting was called to order by President Carl Cottingham, at 7pm.

In attendance: Becky Bolt (Treasurer), Carl Cottingham (President), Charlotte Cook, Sylvia Lee,

Kathleen McDonald (Vice President), Paula Veseth, and David Zellmer (secretary). Not in attend-

ance: Dennis Roggen and Ralph Oyler.

Pastor Janet opened the meeting with Prayer.

Carl presented important upcoming dates and pastoral candidate update:

April 1: Easter: Council brings and serves treats after worship

April 8: Pastoral candidate name is presented

April 15: Pastoral candidate will preside at worship, with meet and greet after worship

April 22: Congregational Meeting to vote on pastoral candidate

A quorum is needed (1/5 of members)

Congregation will vote on a Compensation Package arrangement for a new pastor

2/3 vote needed to extend a call to the pastoral candidate

Stay tuned, as important emails will be coming prior to April 22.

Fire Alarm Update: Design phase is in process; then presented for approval from city/etc. Carl

shared that all expenses come out of seismic budget. Does not affect general budget.

Open Communications: Carl acknowledged the presence of Kris Zellmer, serving as recording sec-

retary and Keith Amundson, for discussion on the Constitution.

Approval of February Minutes: Kathleen McDonald clarified the Minister of Music job descrip-

tion. The correct job description is what had been emailed to each Council member. Charlotte

Cook moved to accept the February Council Minutes, with the clarification of the Minister of Music

job description. K. McDonald seconded and the motion was accepted. Further discussion comes later

in this Council meeting.

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer, Becky Bolt, presented the Report. While there have been extra ex-

penses, it was concurred that St. James is in position to move confidently ahead. David Zellmer

moved to accept the Treasurer’s report; seconded by Charlotte Cook. Acceptance of the report as

presented was approved by unanimous Council vote.

Pastor’s Report: Pastor Janet reviewed her report. Val Brown is added to our prayers upon the

recent death of her mother. Pastor lifted up the well attended Open Space session on “Creeds and

Contemporary Faith”, and expressed gratitude for the panel’s personal sharing and the respectful

discussion of different perspectives. Future Open Space will continue conversation around Lutheran

Worship. Carl and Pastor Janet added that St. James may need Pastor to Pastor Contract, between

Pastor Janet’s leaving and the new pastor begins. Updates will be forthcoming.

President’s Report: President Carl Cottingham reported Scott Ellertson’s withdrawal from

Council. The St. James Constitution states that Council may number up to 15, but there is no mini-

mum number. Kathleen will put an appeal in the Newsletter, inviting any interested member for fill-

ing in Scott’s remaining time on Council. Cont’d. on page 5

3

St. James Jazz Vespers

Sunday, March 18, 5pm

Christopher Woitach, Guitar Christopher Woitach is a jazz guitarist and composer living in Portland. He performs a wide range of

jazz styles, from Dixieland to Free Jazz, Ragtime to Bebop. His

compositions reflect his diverse musical tastes and abilities, and combine

the intricacies of Baroque counterpoint with the freedom of modern

jazz. Woitach’s current projects include writing music for a new

recording with his group, Cathexis Orchestra, recording a new duo CD

with guitarist John Stowell, and working on a compositional

collaboration with electronic music composer Joseph Harchanko. He is

an adjunct professor of jazz guitar at Western Oregon University. Pacific

Arts Association describes Christopher simply as “Jazz Guitarist

Extraordinaire.” Arrive at 4:50 for pre-Vespers music when Christopher will be

joined by our St. James house band, Mike Horsfall, piano;

Laurent Nickel, bass; Brent Follis, drums and Valarie Brown,

cantor. Freewill offering. A special reception for Tim Nickel follows. See page 10

_________________________________________________________________________________

Bach Vesper at St. James

Sunday, April 29, 5pm Join our community for the Bach Vesper, Sunday April 29 at 5pm with Cantata

166 “Wo gehest du hin? (Where are you heading?) will feature young

singers from Portland’s Trinity Cathedral Choir School and soloists Les Green

and Kevin Helppie from Western Oregon University and guest

organist Christopher Lynch (right), Fellow in Church Music at Trinity

Cathedral, in Portland. Christopher sang in the boy choir at St. Peter's

Episcopal Church in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, before

attending the American Boychoir School in Princeton, New Jersey.

Christopher studied organ performance and early music at Indiana University.

The treble choir will sing a new motet for children’s voices by Kenneth Kosche that was

commissioned for the Bach Vespers by Dorothy Cottingham in memory of her sister, Gretchen

Stude, a Lutheran elementary school teacher and director of children’s choirs.

Organ music performed by Christopher Lynch will begin at 4:50. Free will offering

supports the Bach Vesper series at St. James.

Worship and Mus ic

Minister of Music Search Update The search committee has com-

pleted the job description, and posted it to St. James website, as well as

listed it on local and national sites. Applications are coming in. Inter-

views should commence in May. You can see the job description at: https://stjamespdx.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/

Minister_of_Music_Job_Description.pdf

4

Child Development Center

Spring Greetings from St. James CDC!

Enrollment at the Child Development Center is strong, with 130 children

served, and a wait list with more than 200 families anxious to get their child

in. The child care market in Portland is in such high demand, and high quality

options such as St. James are quite limited.

Twelve teachers at St. James were fortu-

nate to attend the first ever Portland

Preschool Crawl. This incredible training was hosted by the

Oregon Association for the Education

of Young Children, and included a three

hour classroom environments training,

followed by an afternoon visiting high

quality child care centers in the metro area. Teachers were able to network

with other teachers, and see some incredible classroom spaces. A second

event has been tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2018, and St. James has

been offered as the host school for the event. Teachers are excited to rein-

vent their classroom spaces, so that we can be proud to show off the Child

Development Center at St. James!

The older preschool classroom is doing an integrated study on Pets this month. Most activities in

the classroom for the month will revolve around animals, and children were most excited when the

dramatic play interest area was transformed into a veterinary clinic. Animal crates, veterinary cos-

tumes, and veterinary equipment can be found in the clinic. We are hoping to schedule a field trip

experience that revolves around our theme. Do you know anyone

that works in the veterinary field, or somehow works with

animals? We would love to hear from them! Teachers Maken-

na Roggen and Tiffany Pok decided to purchase a new low mainte-

nance classroom pet for the group, and brought the new axolotl

named Toothless just this past week. Have you ever seen an axo-

lotl? Commonly called a Mexican walking fish, it’s actually not a fish

at all, but rather an amphibian. Take a moment to head down to the

preschool and check it out!

The young preschool classroom is just beginning their new integrated

study topic titled, Trees! During their tree study, they will investigate many types of trees, and how

trees fit in with our daily lives. In the first week, children were encouraged to bring in items relating

to trees. So far, their tree wall collection has branches, leaves, bark and more. We hope to have a

couple of guest speakers come to the room to share their knowledge. We do know an amazing re-

tired forester (ahem, Mr. Larry Larsen) who might be able to give us some insights.

Patrick Earnest,

Director, CDC

5

Cont’d from page 1

participate in God’s protest against the forces of death. Yes, by grace we have been saved, and not

by works, lest we should boast. But we haven’t been saved by grace just to fall back into sloth and

passivity! No, God’s grace empowers us to walk the way of Jesus on this earth, to be his body and

carry on his mission. True grace, as opposed to cheap grace, calls us into active faith, enlists us as

God’s accomplices in God’s protest movement for the sake of the world’s liberation. As Moltmann

continues:

“The resurrection faith is not proved true by means of historical evidence, or only in

the next world. It is proved here and now, through the courage for revolt, the protest

against deadly powers, and the self-giving of men and women for the victory of life. It is

impossible to talk convincingly about Christ’s resurrection without participating in the move-

ment of the Spirit ‘who descends on all flesh’ to quicken it. This movement of the Spirit is the

divine ‘liberation movement,’ for it is the process whereby the world is recreated.”* (Italics mine.)

*From Jürgen Moltmann, “The Feast of Freedom,” in the Power of the Powerless (1983).

Cont’d from page 2

Some discussion to ask Larry Larsen to be member-at-large, at the Executive Committee only.

Council members are encouraged to attend and/or represent St. James as a voting member at up-

coming Regional gathering, May 5, and the Synod Assembly, May 19. Let Carl know if you’re inter-

ested. Announcements will also be in the bulletin and newsletter.

Carl noted that appropriate good-byes to Nancy Nickel and Pastor Janet need to be planned.

Charlotte Cook shared that these acknowledgements/goodbyes are in place:

1) April 15, honoring Tim Nickel, following the Jazz Vespers

2) June 3, honoring Nancy Nickel, following the Bach Cantata

When Pastor Janet’s leaving schedule is confirmed, we will schedule and organize accordingly.

Committee Reports: Music Minister Search Committee: Kathleen McDonald, Jules Auger,

Craig Gerke, Sue McBerry, and Gretchen Rodgers.

Kathleen reiterated that the job description appears on St. James website (click on worship and

music) and the job will be posted on 6-7 good sites, local and beyond. The salary package is in ap-

propriate range. David Zellmer moved to approve the job description as distributed. Becky Bolt

seconded. Motion carried. Compensation Committee: Becky Bolt, Carl Cottingham and Den-

nis Roggen. The Compensation Package will be presented and voted on at the April 22 Congrega-

tional Meeting.

St. James Constitution: Keith Amundson prefaced the report acknowledging the many hours of

high quality, line by line work, done by LaVon Holden, who began back with Pastor Dennis, going

through and updating parts of our Constitution. A final version comes to Council at the next

meeting, April 17. Then it goes for Synod’s okay; then back to St. James for final approval. Stay

tuned. Carl Cottingham expressed thanks to Keith and LaVon, which Council members applauded.

Other: Charlotte Cook reported that she’ll have bulletin flyer about collecting for the Box Car

(Health kits) project. Money donations are preferred. Saturday, March 24, 9:30 – come and help

clean church. Remember to bring goodies for Easter.

Carl Cottingham reminded the Council that NO NAME OF THE PASTORAL CANDIDATE until

April 8.

Adjournment: President Cottingham adjourned the meeting at 8:17, followed by a Closing Prayer.

Submitted,

Kristine Zellmer

6

April1 No Open Space--Easter Sunday

April 8 No Open Space

April 15 Q&A with Pastoral Candidate

April 22 Congregational Meeting

April 29 Worship Series; Lutheran Language with Pastor Janet

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 Festival Service,

9:30am

2 3 4 5 6 7

8

9

10

11 12 13 14

15 16 17

18 19

20 21

22 23 24 25 26

27

28

30 May 1

29

Centering

Prayer, 8:30am

Noon Eucharist

Bible Study

12:45pm

Adult Education: Open Space in April

Planning Ahead: April 2018

Contemplative

Prayer,

9:15-11am

WELCA, 11am

Council, 7pm

9:30am Worship

Sun.School/

CONGREGATIONAL

MEETING, 11am

Confirmation, 1pm

The Flame, 4pm

Bach Rehearsal 7-9pm

Contemplative

Prayer,

9:15-11am

Centering

Prayer, 8:30am

Noon Eucharist

Bible Study

12:45pm

Goose Hollow, 6pm

Centering

Prayer, 8:30am

Noon Eucharist

Bible Study

12:45pm

9:30am Worship

Sunday school 11am

Confirmation, 1pm

The Flame, 4pm

9:30am Worship PASTORAL

CANDIDATE Sun.School, 11am

Confirmation, 1pm

The Flame, 4pm

Jazz Vesper, 5pm

TIM NICKEL 6pm

Bach Rehearsal 7-9pm

9:30am Worship

Sunday school/

Open Space

Confirmation, 1pm

The Flame, 4pm

BACH CANTATA 5pm

Finance, 6pm

Book Club

7:10pm

Bach Rehearsal,

7-9pm

Choir Rehearsal

7:15pml

Choir Rehearsal

7:15pm

Mark Your Calendars: Sunday, April 15 and Sunday, April 22

These are two of the most important dates for St. James this year. On Sunday, April

15 our Pastoral Candidate, recommended and approved by Council, will preach at

the 9:30am service (Pastor Janet will preside). There will be a Q&A following the

service to give members a chance to meet the candidate and hear from him per-

sonally. On the following Sunday, April 22, the congregation will gather after service

to vote whether or not to call the candidate for Pastorship at St. James. Don’t miss

these Sundays!

Centering

Prayer, 8:30am

Noon

Eucharist

Bach Rehearsal

7-9pm

7

Prayer at St. James

Personal and small group prayer can be a powerful force in your life. It cen-

ters and expands, at the same time, your connection with God. St. James of-

fers two separate opportunities for designated prayer throughout the week.

Everyone is welcome.

Centering Prayer

Wednesdays, 8:30-9am, Pioneer Chapel

Centering Prayer is an ancient tradition of mindful meditation and prayer

that is guaranteed to get your day started in a good mood. Did you know

there is a weekly opportunity to practice this simple form of contemplative

prayer weekly at St James? Wednesday mornings at 8:30 a small gathering

takes place in the Pioneer Chapel; focused around a seed verse and 20

minutes of silence with closing prayer. We then adjourn to a nearby coffee shop for conversa-

tion. Former Lutheran/Episcopal PSU campus pastor Chris Laing is the convener. Why not try it

out?

For more info on Centering Prayer: Chris Laing: 503-704-7254

Contemplative Prayer & Labyrinth Walk

April Dates: Saturday, April 7 & 21

You are encouraged to join the Contemplative Prayer Group at St. James

Lutheran Church. Times for prayer are the first and third Saturday morn-

ings at 9:15am for labyrinth walking and 9:30 –11am for contemplative

prayer. This is an opportunity to enter into a deeper relationship with

God. Everyone is welcome, rain or shine!

For more information, please contact the church office, 503-227-2439

or Susan McBerry at sumacberry@gmail.com.

Post-Easter vacation and Pulpit Supply

Pastor Janet will visit family in Houston be-

ginning April 2 through April 9. We are fortu-

nate to welcome the Rev. Susan Kintner, As-

sistant to the Bishop, to preach and preside

during worship on April 8. Pastor Kintner

has been working with our Call Committee

in support of the Call Process. Rev. David

Zellmer will preach and preside at the mid-

week Eucharist on April 4 and cover pastoral

emergencies in the pastor’s absence. Grati-

tude to David for his generous support!

8

With Easter, New Life for St. James Springs Into View

By Pastor Janet Parker Don’t you love spring? Everything is coming alive all around us, and Christians get to celebrate

Easter, God’s final word that life wins! This spring, St. James has something else to celebrate. Your

hard-working Call Committee has brought St. James to the point where your future as a congre-

gation can begin to come into view. As good heirs of the Israelites, you have spent 16 months

making purposeful progress through the wilderness of the interim period. Now, the spies that

your leaders sent ahead to check out the promised land have returned with great news: they

have found the pastor that they believe God is calling to lead you into the next chapter of St.

James’ sacred story. And finally, the time has come for you to meet this person and judge for yourself:

is this the leader we have been waiting for? Your Council has enthusiastically endorsed the choice

of the Call Committee—unanimously! Now, in the wisdom of ELCA polity, it’s time for you, the

people, to discern the Spirit’s leading and have your say.

And so, you are invited to come to worship on Sunday, April 15, to hear the Candidate preach and have

the opportunity for a meet and greet following the service. Come and listen, come and pray, come and

ask questions. Then, come back on Sunday, April 22, and participate prayerfully in the Congregational

Meeting following worship to vote on the Candidate whose name is before you.

I will walk with you through this month and serve as the Bishop’s representative to witness and

ratify the vote on April 22. I will work with you throughout May and possibly into June to draw

our ministry together to a faithful conclusion. Then, I will bid you a very fond farewell and leave

you to the next exciting chapter in your life here at 1315 SW Park Avenue. We will have plenty

of time for goodbyes. If you wish to have a one-to-one coffee, tea or drink of your choice with

me, or simply drop by my office for a personal farewell before I leave, please email me or call the

office and let me know. We will find time! In my interim training, we learned to think of the inter-

im period as a kind of wilderness zone which involves a lot of wandering, and sometimes feeling

lost, but which ultimately leads to God’s promised future for

the church. I have so enjoyed journeying alongside you during

this time and sharing in your sacred story, which is a beautiful,

hope-filled, and rich story. Let us enjoy the time we have left

and prepare your hearts for the new life about to spring forth in

your midst!

Official Notice from St. James Council

Your Church Council has called a special Congregational Meeting for Sunday ,

April 22. The purpose of that meeting is to call a Pastor to St. James Lutheran

Church. There will be a quorum required, please attend! More information

will be disclosed after Easter. Carl Cottingham, President

9

Wednesday Eucharist Commemorations in April

April 4: Albrecht Dürer: 1471-1528, Matthias Grünewald : 1470-1528,

Lucas Cranach 1472-1553)

These great German artists revealed through their work the mystery of salvation

and the wonder of creation. Dürer’s work (left) reflected the apocalyptic spirit of

his time. Though he remained a Roman Catholic, he was sympathetic to Martin Lu-

ther’s reforming work. Grünewald’s paintings

(center) are known for their dramatic forms, vivid

colors, and depiction of light. Cranach’s work

( right) includes many fine religious examples and

several portraits of Martin Luther. Cranach was also widely known

for his woodcuts.

April 11: Dietrich Bonhoeffer: 1906-1945

Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a German theologian who, at the age of twenty-five, became a lecturer in

systematic theology at the University of Berlin. In 1933, and with Hitler’s rise to pow-

er, Bonhoeffer became a leading spokesman for the Confessing Church, a resistance

movement against the Nazis. He was arrested in 1943. He was linked to a failed at-

tempt on Hitler’s life and sent to Buchenwald, then to Schönberg prison. After leading

a worship service on April 8, 1945, at Schönberg prison, he was taken away to be

hanged the next day. His last words as he left were, “This is the end, but for me the

beginning of life.” Evangelical Lutheran Worship includes a hymn (626) by Bonhoeffer,

“By Gracious Powers.”

April 18: Olavus Petri: 1493-1552, Laurentius Petri: 1499-1573

These two brothers are commemorated for their introduction of the

Lutheran movement to the Church of Sweden after studying at the

University of Wittenberg. They returned home and, through the sup-

port of King Gustavus Vasa, began their work. Olavus published a cate-

chism, hymnal, and a Swedish version of the mass. He resisted at-

tempts by the king to gain royal control of the church. Laurentius was

a professor at the university in Uppsala. When the king wanted to

abolish the ministry of bishops, Laurentius persuaded him otherwise. The historic episcopate contin-

ues in Sweden to this day. Together the brothers published a complete Bible in Swedish and a revised

liturgy in 1541.

April 25: Toyohiko Kagawa (1888-1960) Toyohiko Kagawa was born in

1888 in Kobe, Japan. Orphaned early, he was disowned by his remaining ex-

tended family when he became a Christian. Kagawa wrote, spoke, and

worked at length on ways to employ Christian principles in the ordering of

society. His vocation to help the poor led him to live among them. He es-

tablished schools, hospitals, and churches. He also worked for peace and es-

tablished the Anti-War League. He was arrested for his efforts to reconcile

Japan and China after the Japanese attack of 1940.

10

St. James Ministries and Groups

St. James Artist of the month: Craig Gerke

Craig Gerke graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee, WI in 2001

with a BA in Art. After moving to Portland he began a career in social services work-

ing with at-risk youth and adults with disabilities. After joining St. James and becoming

involved with the music program, Craig began to look for

outlets to continue doing artwork, which had been on the

back burner for years due to his work schedule. He began reading through

the scripture texts assigned for the Bach Cantatas, as well as the Cantatas

themselves. The poetry and hymns associated with each led him to begin

creating art for each Cantata. Nancy Nickel and others at St. James have en-

couraged this hobby. Craig realized that he has amassed a sizable collection

from the Cantatas performed over the years. Craig selected some to display

at St. James in the month of April from Cantatas sung throughout the liturgi-

cal year. Enjoy!

Reception Honoring Tim Nickel

Sunday, April 15, 6pm (following Jazz Vesper) In appreciation and celebration of his magnificent contributions to the music

ministry of St. James, there will be a champagne reception honoring Tim Nickel

on Sunday, April 15 following Jazz Vespers. His compositions have seeped into

the soul of St. James, and it is time to recognize Tim’s vast musical gifts to the

church. Since 2004, Tim has composed 38 Psalms for choir, congregation, organ

and other instruments, all of which have been performed at a Sunday service.

Some of those Psalms have been commissioned and dedicated to various indi-

viduals. Among the many Psalms he has composed are: Psalm 46, October 2006 in gratitude to Ann

Fruechte for her years of service to St. James; Psalm 86, October 2012 in gratitude for the life and witness

of Juy Nielsen; Psalm 104, Pentecost 2008 in celebration of the 50th wedding anniversary of Rev. William &

Sandra Arbaugh; Psalm 116, October 2016 in gratitude for the ministry of Pastor Dennis Andersen. Addi-

tionally, Tim has written full Liturgical Settings. The largest project was a Psalter for the Saints for

choir, congregation and organ that covers the complete three-year lectionary. Gospel Acclamation

settings for choir, congregation and organ were also composed for the three-year lectionary. Many

of his compositions have been commissioned, including his Luther Chorale Mass for congregation, choir

or cantor and hand bells, commissioned by WELCA in memory of Lois Gogl. His Jazz Vesper setting of

Evening Prayer was commissioned for and is still performed at the Monthly St. James Jazz Vesper.

Tim’s Hymn and Motet settings have also been created in honor of people whose lives served St.

James. Hymns have included “God the Spirit, Guide and Guardian” in celebration of 50 years of ordained

ministry by Rev. Joe Smith, and “Go, My Children, with My Blessing” for JoAnn Rauch, celebrating her 23

years of service as Director of the CDC. His Motets celebrate other important individuals, such as “We

are God’s Servants” in honor of Kay Betton, a model of generous volunteerism in the church. Additionally,

Tim has written organ preludes and a collection of 20 arrangements of hymn tunes and classical

repertoire for hand bells. He has also given countless hours to the choir, assisting running sections

for the Bach Vesper series. Phew. As you can see, Tim is a musical fount. And St. James has been so

greatly enriched by Tim’s gifts of music and spirit. We are ever grateful, and invite everyone to join

in our Thank You to Tim Nickel on Sunday, April 15.

11

Portland Homeless Family Solutions at Goose Hollow

“My favorite thing about Goose Hollow is eating the dinners. The volunteers are so helpful and nice, and the food is so good…it’s so much so that I’ve even

put on weight! But it’s worth it ‘cause I feel supported here.”

Alea, Guest

St. James’ WELCA group and other member volunteers continue to support the

Goose Hollow Family Shelter by providing overnight hosts and a full meal one

Wednesday night a month. More volunteers are always needed. There is a sign-up

sheet in the hallway outside the Pioneer Chapel. As you can see from the quote

above our efforts are truly appreciated! April Menu: Ham; Au Gratin potatoes; String Beans;

Fruit Salad; Rolls & Apples. Overnight Hosts are NEEDED! If you are interested in be-

ing one contact Linda Rickert at 503-224-9353.

St. James Book Club

Tuesday, April 24, Library, 7:10pm March Book Club was canceled due to a variety of reasons. So the March selection be-

comes the April book "Mystic River” by Dennis Lehane. The New York Times bestselling

novel from Dennis Lehane is a gripping, unnerving psychological thriller about the effects of a

savage killing on three former friends in a tightly knit, blue-collar Boston neighborhood. For

more information contact: Linda Rickert, 503-224-9353.

St. James Library

St. James Librarian Needed!

Do you like books? St. James is in need of a new person to help keep track of and or-

ganize the books in the church library. If you have any interest in helping out, please,

let the church office know. 503-227-2439

St. James Ministries and Groups cont’d.

WELCA

WELCA's Fair Trade Coffee & Chocolate Sale You’ll have to make that Easter

chocolate and coffee last a bit longer. The next Fair Trade Coffee & Chocolate sale will be

Sunday, May 5. And a reminder that we provide the coffee for the weekly coffee hour following

Sunday service. Your donations are always appreciated!

WELCA Monthly Meeting

Tuesday, April 17, 11am-1pm, Pioneer Chapel

WELCA's April meeting will be Tuesday, April 17, 11:00am-1:00pm in Pioneer

Chapel, for a business meeting and snacks. Mandy Ellertson will join us with

information about student needs at PCC, where she teaches.

We'll also be finalizing plans for our last meeting this season, May 15, when we'll

gather for luncheon at a restaurant. Remember, even if you don't usually make it

to regular meetings, you're still actually a member of Women of the ELCA, and

will be welcome to join us for the pre-summer finale. If you think you might

make it, let Linda Rickert know.

12

St. James Ministries cont’d.

Young Families

The Lenten Season – for many, it’s a time of renewed at-

tention to a variety of spiritual disciplines – reflection, (re)

taking up a spiritual practice, abstaining from things in our

life to journey the wilderness with Christ on the way to

the cross. We Lutherans

are serious people and

those things are serious business. But, there are also a variety of fun

activities in which we participate too. During the Lenten Season,

some of those involve our

Shrove Tuesday Pancake & Sau-

sage Supper and

our Wednesday Soup Supper &

Services with some of our

downtown churches. Members

of the Young Families Group of-

ten plan to meet-up at these

events to share food, conversa-

tion, and play. We hope you en-

joy some photos of the kiddos

eating and playing together.

Young Families’ Supper Club meets monthly and is hosted at the homes (or neighbor-

hood parks) of participating families. If you have young children and would like to join

the group, please contact Matthew (254-315-2109).

It Was an Evening of Fun and Games! On St. Patrick’s Day, Mandy and Scott Ellertson opened their home for a gath-

ering to support the Flame, an LGTBQ group that meets weekly at St. James,

led by Leo Bancroft (left). Leo will become an ELCA

ordained pastor this July. He recently led very informa-

tive conversations on LGBTQ at two informative Open

Space sessions at St. James. About 25 folk were at Mandy

and Scott’s for an enjoyable time with clever, funny

games, followed by a feast of Irish food and toasts of

good cheer. Thank you Mandy and Scott, for this enthusiastic and enjoyable

gathering!

Red Wagon Food Drive Remember to bring non-perishable food (teas are particularly welcome) for

the children to bring forward on the first Sunday of the month during Of-

fertory, which will then be given to Shepherd's Door, serving abused wom-

en and their children.

Contact Barbara Steege: 503-960-3618 or Steege33@aol.com.

13

Synod Assembly this year is a one-day affair supplemented by five regional

gatherings. And St. James is looking for voting members to participate in this

exciting new experiment. It is hoped this will help reduce out-of-pocket costs

for people (and churches) attending the Assembly. Additionally, there will

be five regional gatherings throughout the state that anyone can attend. There

will be two in the Portland Metro area - West Linn Lutheran Church and St. Andrew Lutheran

Church in Beaverton. Hopefully these regional events foster greater relationship-building in different

regions. The regional gatherings will focus on mission and ministry of local churches. The one-day

Synod Assembly, held this year in Portland, will conduct the annual business of the Synod. There is a

$150 fee per voting member to the Synod Assembly. There is no charge for the regional gatherings.

The local Regional meetings will be held on Saturday, May 5.

Synod Assembly is scheduled for Saturday, May 19 at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in

Portland.

If you are interested in attending the one-day Synod Assembly, please contact Pastor

Janet. We need two voting members, plus the pastor, to attend.

Synod Assembly Set for May 19

Open Space Series on Lutheran Worship Over the past two months our Open Space topic has been on the subject of Lutheran Worship.

Through a four-part series of presentations

by Pastor Janet and a group of retired and

rostered pastors, as well a seminary-trained

participant, different aspects of Lutheran

worship have been discussed. All have been

informative and well-attended, especially the

second session, a panel discussion on the

Creeds.

The First session (Feb 25) was a presenta-

tion on Lutheran from retired Pr. Leon Gogl.

Over 20 attended.

The Second session (March 11, pictured above) was a panel presentation/discussion on the

Creeds in worship; lead by retired Lutheran pastoral counselor Rev. Jules Auger, retired Pr. David

Zellmer, retired Pr. Leon Gogl, Rev. Mattew Schobert (ordained in the Baptist denomination) and

Scott Ellertson (a seminary-trained son of a Lutheran Missionary). Over 40 people attended this

session and had a wonderfully open, honest and respectful discussion of people’s different perspec-

tives on the use of the Creeds in worship and education.

The Third session was on worship at St. James, led by Pr. Parker. Her presentation/discussion led

us through information on choices and practices provided by our hymnal (Evangelical Lutheran

Worship) with the assistance of a companion resource, The Sunday Assembly, a guide for worship

planners and leaders. About 18 people attended. She especially wants to thank the Worship Com-

mittee for supporting these sessions by attending and taking notes which we hope will be benefi-

cial for our new pastor.

A final Fourth session on language use in our worship, led by Pr. Parker, will be scheduled for

Open Space on Sunday, April 29.

Mark your calendars for the conclusion of this great series!

14

A Special Plea from Social Ministry

It may seem overwhelming at times that the world is in constant turmoil. And there is a feeling of helpless-

ness in the face of such struggle. But even small gestures can make big differences. This month Social

Ministry reminds of an important way that we can help.

Can you hear them coming……..the Lutheran World Relief Boxcars are on the way! For decades

LWR has sponsored the Box Car Project. This massive effort to collect desperately needed sup-

plies for distribution worldwide happens twice a year: Spring and Fall. At St. James we do School

Kits in the Fall and Personal Care Kits in the Spring.

The Personal Care Kits contain:

† light weight bath towel (dark colors recom-

mended)

† Bath-size soap bars in original wrapping

† 1 adult toothbrush (multi-packs may be

used by sealing individual toothbrush in a

business size envelope (#10)

† 1 sturdy comb (no picks or fine-tooth

combs)

† 1 metal nail clipper

These items can be brought to the church OR (this

is our preference), a check can be donated. We usually are able to purchase the items for about

$9 or less per kit. We also are requested to provide 21 cents a pound to help cover shipping costs.

We are VERY good at stretching the dollars.

Most of us at St. James have never experienced the cold terror of a knock in the night that means

‘run, run away from all you have ever known - home, community, family, possessions, job – all any

of us hold dear. ’ Whether it is war, political upheaval, natural disaster, anyone caught in the mael-

strom is a human being in need of help and care. Does our Lord ask any less of us?

May 2 will be the date we assemble the kits at church (pizza follows). More information will be in

the Sunday bulletins. We pray you will join in this very necessary project. Remember, “to whom

much has been given, much is expected…”

With Deepest Thanks in Christ’s Name,

Social Ministry.

For more information contact Charlotte Cook: 503-286-8480

15

This month’s issue includes both Feb-

ruary and March. The month-end

numbers for March have not yet been

posted.

16

In Memoriam: Ralph Erwin

We are saddened to announce the death of a former active member of St. James,

Ralph Erwin. Ralph was a kind and gentle man who had a strong calling to help

youth. A high school teacher, Ralph, for many years, also taught children’s Sunday

School classes and also led the youth fellowship and Confirmation classes. He

would take the youth out to Starbucks and buy them treats, and they would sit

around and discuss matters of faith and life. Ill health in later years prevented Ralph

from attending services at St. James. We pray for comfort for his loved ones and

give thanks for his Christian service.

Holy Week and Easter at St. James

With Special THANKS to David Zellmer and Sarah Nelson for the photos: Clockwise from top left:

Palm Sunday in the Park Block; St. John Passion, Easter Celebration. Christ is Risen! Hallelujah!

17

April Birthdays & Anniversaries

Sunday Refreshment Hosts and Altar Flower Sponsors

COFFEE HOUR: Lutherans love their coffee!!! Have you noticed lately that the coffee table is a little

bare? We’d love to have you contribute. Please add your name to the sign-up sheet in the hallway. It’s

easy and a fun way to get to know members. FLOWERS: Please add your name to the sign-up sheet in

the hallway.

COFFEE FLOWERS

April 1 __ Council _ _______ Craig Gerke/Choir_

April 8 _____ Book Club __ _______ Open ___ ____

April 15 Cook __ _______ Open ___ ____

April 22 ___Caring for Creation_ _______ Open ___ ____

April 29 Open _ _______ Open ___ ____

For the recently bereaved: Pastor Janet’s extended family on the loss of her Aunt, Sybil

Stout, on March 27, especially her cousins Randy Stout, and Debbie and Don Smith, and their

children. Ken Turner and family on the death of his mother, Kathleen Minger; Valarie Brown

and family on the death of her mother, Patricia Griffiths; the friends and family of Ralph Erwin.

For comfort, healing, and care: T. J. Malsey, sister-in-law of Susan McBerry; Rose Ann

Clementi; Warren Cook; Linda Rickert; Paul Siegmund; Sandra Arbaugh; Roy Bolt; Roger Lee;

Allen Nelson; Joseph Anderson-Bussie; Deb Aronson; Lynn Drake; Paula Carlson; Debbie Marr, best friend of

Carol Wallis; Majel Parker.For those receiving treatment for, or healing from, cancer: Bobbie G.; Ste-

vie Weimer; Jenny Norman; Beverly Fuller; Dolly Mercedes, friend of Beverly Fuller; Bill Hamann;Tim Mongin,

coworker of Ann Tohlen; Angela, friend of Beverly Fuller; Sue Johnson; Carl Cottingham; Noelle Gross; Bob

Leon.

For the people and ministries of St. James, especially our Call Committee and Council: Look on

your Church with grace and guide those who are shepherding our congregation through the Call Process. Bless

the congregation and bless the Candidate with discernment and wisdom as the process continues to unfold.

For our Bishops: ELCA Presiding Bishop, Elizabeth Eaton, and Oregon Synod Bishop, David Brauer-Rieke.

For our nation’s elected and appointed leaders: the President, Vice-President, members of Congress,

State Representatives and Senators, Judges, and all local, state and national leaders, that they may serve our

communities, state and nation with wisdom and integrity.

For all direct public servants who interface with the public and serve the common good.

For our world: For the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned, all those in

whom Christ meets us unawares. May all these and other vulnerable and marginalized people the world over

be treated with dignity and may they be filled, welcomed, healed, and liberated according to your will.

The prayer list will be refreshed every month. Please contact Karin Hatch if you’d like your re-

quest to stay on longer.

Email: karinh@stjamespdx.org or call the Church office at 503-227-2439

Paula Carlson 4/3

Charlotte Cook 4/6

Eva Tormohlen 4/10

Gary Rodgers 4/12

Margie Lee & Robert May 4/16

Bill Arbaugh 4/20

David Johnson 4/21

Mary Ellen Isensee 4/30

18

1315 SW Park Ave

Portland, Or 97201

www.stjamespdx.org

Tel: 503.227.2439

Fax: 503.227.0856

St. James Lutheran Church

1315 SW Park Ave

Portland OR 97201

STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Rev. Dr. Janet Parker, Interim Pastor Carl Cottingham, President

Nancy Nickel, M.M., Minister of Music Kathleen McDonald, Vice President

Mike Horsfall, Director of Jazz Ministry David Zellmer, Secretary

Sharon Kurtz, Bookkeeper Becky Bolt, Treasurer

Chelsea Ellertson, Receptionist/Building Asst. Larry Larsen, Member-at-Large

Karin Hatch, M.S., Parish Administrator

Patrick Earnest, Director, Child Dev. Center

Scott Keane RN, Foot Care Clinic

Leah Tuor, Nursery Coordinator