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Swatch
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Newsletter of the Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s Organization—Region 1-C Women of The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Published six times a year March 2019 *************************************************************************************************
Mission Statement of Women of the ELCA
TO MOBILIZE WOMEN TO ACT BOLDLY ON THEIR FAITH
IN JESUS CHRIST!
Purpose
Statement:
As a community of women
created in the image of
God,
called to discipleship in
Jesus Christ, and
empowered by the Holy
Spirit,
We commit ourselves to
grow in faith,
affirm our gifts,
support one another in
our callings,
engage in ministry and
action, and
promote healing and
wholeness in the church,
the society, and the world.
Purpose Statement of the
Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s Organization
The purpose of this synodical women’s organization shall be to assist congregational and inter-congregational units
within its territory to fulfill the purpose of
Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
IN the transfer over from one program to another we “LOST” the SW WA SWO LOGO. WE’ll do our best to re-create it as soon as possible. Sorry!
Message from the President Greetings from all the synod presidents of the Women of the Evangelical Church in America. I just returned from Chicago at a meeting with all 64 of them. We learned a lot from each other and the staff, had a great Bible study, several workshops and lots of fellowship for 2 days. There were challenges in getting home for many due to wild weather. Please check the WELCA web site for more details of the conference. Look up AMMPARO on immigration issues taken up by Lutheran Women, references on Human Trafficking which has many projects for you to take part in or to learn from. You will hear more about Current for Curran (solar power for that hospital in Liberia) and information on a program called Raising Healthy Women and Girls. There is lots going on around our country all led by women like you. Which issue might you take up this year to learn about or partake in? Prison ministry with Empowering Life in our synod might be just where you want to start or continue. See the article elsewhere in this issue. Did you have a special Sunday for Bold Women on Feb. 24? No? Maybe next year. Do you have plans for Thankofferings this year? We are just getting started on planning our convention so put the date, Oct. 12, 2019, on your calendar. The convention will be held at Christ Lutheran in Lakewood. Plan for the Region 1 Gathering on June 21-23 (details noted elsewhere in this issue) where you will join women from Alaska, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, Washington and a piece of Wyoming! I am sure your church has many activities that allow you to serve and to make a difference in your community. Changes are real and difficult, but just think of it this way: “What is God Up To?” Read Bishop Eaton’s piece in Living Lutheran, Feb. 2019 to get your juices going. Blessings as you do God’s work at your church, in your community, and as part of outreach beyond your area through monetary gifts and service given to your churches, synod and The Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Our gifts go far and wide and make a big impact in what God has for us to do. Kathy Newton
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The Swatch Newsletter
Copies are distributed by electronic mail whenever possible to SW WA congregations and to hundreds of women individually. To subscribe by postal mail, send $10 to the newsletter editor with the check made out to SW WA SWO. Subscriptions are due in January of each year. The Swatch newsletter is published six times a year: January, March, May, July, September, and November. Articles may be submitted for consideration for use in the Swatch. The deadline is the 15th of the month prior to the next issue of the Swatch. Send articles to the editor: Linnea Glover 3154 Pear Street SE Olympia, WA 98501 360-556-0508 [email protected] Copyright 2019 Swatch newsletter of Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s Organization, Women of the ELCA. Articles may be reproduced by Women of the ELCA Units provided each copy carries the notice “Reprinted with permission from Swatch, the Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s Organization newsletter, copyright 2019
Wow, another great way to serve my Lord and Creator as treasurer of the Southwestern WA Women of the ELCA. I am so happy to once again be your treasurer and to introduce myself to a special group of ladies. I attend All Saints Lutheran church in Auburn, the furthest reaches of our synodical woman's group but reside in Puyallup. I have been involved for many years and find so much enrichment in life by helping, and attending the many events the SWO supports and provides. I look forward to meeting new and old friends in my service to you all...Thank you and God Bless Please send all correspondence to Kathy Ifft P.O. Box 53754 Puyallup WA. 98374
Important Notice
If you sent in a registration form and check for the Spring Retreat this March but have not yet received a confirmation email, please contact Kathy Ifft ASAP. [email protected] 253-307-5761
From Kathy Ifft, SWO Treasurer Treasurer’s Report
SW WA SWO Board Meeting Highlights From Jeanne Patterson, Secretary
The Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s
Organization held their board meeting on March 9,
2019 at Christ Lutheran Church in Lakewood, WA.
Lanie Ferrell, Convention Planning Chairman, gave
an update on the October 12, 2019 convention.
The theme for the convention will be “Fear Not”.
The theme for the Region I Gathering on June 21-
23, 2019 in Hillsboro, Oregon is “Your Faith Jour-
ney”. The theme for the Triennial Gathering July
14-16, 2020 in Phoenix, Arizona is “Just Love”. We
have many opportunities to attend WELCA events
in the coming two years so watch for dates and
details. The SW WA SWO board was asked the
question, “Why is WELCA important to you? If it
were gone, would you miss it and why?” Each
board member shared their thoughts on this ques-
tion and came up with many reasons why it is im-
portant. In closing, why is WELCA important to
you? The next board meeting will be July 13, 2019
at The Lutheran Church of The Good Shepherd in
Olympia, Washington.
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Gather’s Upcoming Bible Studies
May 2019 devotional Two-way blessings
“One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts” (Psalm 145:4). For Gather’s May 2019 intergenerational devotional, the Rev. Christa von Zychlin brings us “Two way blessings,” a study of intergenerational relationships in Scripture. Looking at the stories of Miriam, Anna and Simeon, as well as the miracle feeding of the 5,000, we’ll see how God uniquely shares wisdom among each of us—and how our lives are enriched in community with all ages! A frequent Gather contributor, von Zychlin has served Lutheran churches around the world through ELCA Global Mission. She currently pastors Trinity Lutheran Church of Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Summer 2019: For such a time as this: Lessons from Esther
The book of Esther is one of the latest writings of the Old Testament, perhaps written to inspire Jews who had been scattered in the diaspora. The narra-tive takes place in the court of the King of Persia, King Ahasuerus. Some think that it was written to explain and establish the Jewish festival of Purim. This three session-study is brought to us by Kay Ward, a bishop of the Moravian Church who lives at Marquardt Manor, a Moravian retirement community in Watertown, Wisconsin. She continues to serve in ministry as a pastor to pastors and intercessor for the church. Before retiring from the staff of Moravi-an Theological Seminary in Bethlehem, Pennsylva-nia, she served in team ministry with her husband, Aden. Kay was the first woman to be elected a bish-op in the 541 years of the Moravian Church (the Unitas Fratrum).
Session one: For such a time as this: Esther the queen—Voices in the king’s court Session one sets the scene for the story of Esther and her adopted father, Mortecai. Esther and Mortecai are Jews living under the rule of the Persian king, King Ahasuerus. When Esther becomes the queen, her faith is tested. The Jews, those who have been carried off from their homeland, struggle with living as strangers in a foreign land. In this session we will think about how our culture may challenge our faith. Session two: For such a time as this: Esther saves the Jews—Finding our voices In session two we’ll learn how, when the Jews are threatened, Esther uses her strong faith and the love of her people to embolden her to act. Through some clever schemes, intelligence and a realistic assessment of her situation, Esther is able to save her people. “For such a time as this” is Mortecai’s gentle reminder to Esther that God has placed her in the king’s court to use her voice. How might God be reminding us of our need to find our voice as we live out our faith? Session three: For such a time as this: Remembering Esther: Using our voices In session three, we’ll examine the last chapters of the book of Esther, which are full of hope for the future for the Jews. The defeat of their enemies is to be celebrated in a feast, the festival of Purim. Directions are given for the celebration of the festival. As women of faith, full of love for God and others, we will consider ways to find and use our voices in our present circumstances—“for such a time as this.”
(Information obtained from Gather magazine website: gathermagazine.org/bible-study)
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At MISSION CREEK Correction Center for Women – a minimum security facility near Belfair – a couple dozen women now gather the first Friday morning for an informal worship service led by Pr. Nels Flesher from Vinland in Poulsbo. Trudy Toepke, an accomplished biblical storyteller from Holy Trinity in Port Angeles, joins Pr Nels and Sharon Peterson, Empowering Life’s pastoral care provider.
Please join us at a worship service this spring. The women love having guests! Here’s contact information to make arrangements:
WCCW (Gig Harbor) – [email protected] or 253-208-3307
Mission Creek (near Belfair) – Sharon Peterson, [email protected] or 253-549-6782
Please contact us three weeks in advance of your visit date. Attention all Evergreen Cluster Churches
Evergreen as a cluster group has been inactive for a few years...the world speeds by so fast and it’s easy to lose touch with our church neighbors. I have wondered about the history of this cluster group of churches and their gathering together for fun and fellowship. Wouldn’t it be good to reconnect with some new bold women ideas to add to the history! Could a member of each church please contact me with a little history? Thank you Kathy Ifft
Find Kathy’s information under the Evergreen Cluster title listed on page 11.
LUTHERAN PASTORS LEAD WORSHIP AT WOMEN’S CORRECTION CENTERS
By Joan Nelson
Lutheran pastors now lead worship at Washington correction centers for women – both “Purdy” and “Mission Creek.”
On the 2nd Sunday of every month, a variety of area pastors and music teams join Rev. Melanie Wallschlaeger, our synod’s Director of Evangelical Mission, to provide an evening worship service at WCCW (“Purdy” in Gig Harbor). Pastor Melanie usually presides at this 7:30 to 8:45 service.
Participating congregations have or will include:
Pr. Coe Hutchison, song team and visitors – Grace – Port Townsend Pr. Chuck Slocum, song team and visitors – Peninsula – Gig Harbor Pr. Mary Davison, song teams – All Saints and Family of Grace – Auburn Pr. Megan Filer, Bethany – Longview Pr. Dawna Svaren, Ocean Park Pr. Linda Smith, retired Pr. Mary Sanders, Bethlehem & United, Tacoma Lauren Vignec, Mission Developer, Fear No Evil Church, Tacoma Pr. Greg Kaurin, Redeemer, Fircrest Music team – First – Port Orchard Gospel Choir – Peace, Tacoma Volunteers supporting the service – St. Mark’s by the Narrows, Tacoma
Pastor Annie Jones-Barnes, mission developer at Rock City in Tacoma, conducts our 4th Sunday service, also from 7:30 to 8:45 in the evening. Pr Annie brings the warmth and intimacy of her African American church background into her service.
The RESTORATION SINGERS, composed of inmate residents, enhances all 4th Sunday services and many 2nd Sunday services. Twylla Moore, who comes out of the same African-American gospel church background, directs the most enthusiastic song team you will ever see.
Empowering Life compensates Ms Moore for serving as pianist and choir director. Empowering Life also provides an honorarium and mileage for pastors in mission or redevelopment congregations.
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February 21, 2019 Greetings Sisters in Christ, Your Faith Journey! This is our theme for the Region I Gathering that will be held June 21-23, 2019 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Hillsboro, OR. The Oregon SWO Board and I are excited to invite you and the other Christian women in your life to join us in discovering, renewing and deepening “Your Faith Journey.”
Our presenter will be Sharon Garlough Brown. Sharon is the author of the Sensible Shoes four book series. The books follow four characters as they work to discover God’s plan for them and develop relationships with each other. You will find a short biography of Sharon on the Region 1 flyer or you can check out Sharon’s website.
If you have a chance to read Sensible Shoes, the first book in the series, I highly recommend doing so. We will have books for sale at the Gathering and Sharon will be signing her books. A Silent Auction will be held during the Gathering and you are invited to donate items; especially if it is an item that represents your region. If your item is large or heavy, mail/ship to my address below. Proceeds from the auction will help to defray Gathering costs and support the Oregon Synod Polish Women’s Exchange.
Hillsboro is west of the airport and downtown Portland. Whether you come by plane or train you can use the MAX transit train to reach the Sunset Transit Center. At the transit center we will have someone meet you and shuttle you to the Embassy Suites. You can also rent a car at the airport or in the Hillsboro area. As we receive registrations, we will send you more exact directions, cost, etc. Finally, Oregon in June is beautiful and has many attractions and adventures. The Oregon Coast, Wine Country and Mt. Hood to name a few. Closer to Hillsboro, the Hillsboro Hops (a Single A team affiliated with the Arizona Diamond Backs) play ball at Ron Tonkin Field. Bring the family and enjoy a great family vacation.
Blessings,
Sonja Hoffman, President Oregon Synodical Women of the ELCA 3925 N. Longview Ave, Portland, OR 97227 [email protected] 503-701-3886
Region 1 Gathering June 21-23, 2019
Schedule Friday, June 21 2-7 pm Region 1 Gathering Registration 2-3 pm OR SWO 2019 Convention Registration 2:30-3 pm OR SWO Voting Member Orientation 3-5 pm Synod Meetings and OR SWO 2019 Convention 5-6 pm Dinner 6-7 pm Free Time 7-9 pm Region 1 Gathering Opening Worship Saturday, June 22 8-9 am Registration 9-9:30 am Opening 9:30– 10 am Announcements and Greetings 10 am-12 pm Session 1 12-1:30 pm Lunch Break 1:30-3:30 pm Session 2 3:30-4 pm Break 4-5 pm Session 3 5-6 pm Free time 6-8 pm Dinner and Entertainment 8-9 pm Evening Prayer-Poland Exchange Program Speaker Communion and Offering Sunday, June 23 9:30-10 am Gathering Closing +Announcements + Evaluations 10-11 am Closing Worship
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Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s Organization (1-C) Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
October 2018
Board Members: Board Member 1 (Position open) Linnea Glover Good Shepherd, Olympia 3154 Pear St. SE OLYMPIA, WA 98501 360-556-0508 [email protected] Mary Ann Nelson Stella, Longview PO Box 368 CATHLAMET, WA 98612 360-849-4340 [email protected]
Virginia Garrison Trinity, Parkland 4932 South State Street TACOMA, WA 98409 253-471-9569 [email protected] Sue Anna Tucker Elim, Port Orchard P.O. Box 1569 PORT ORCHARD, WA 98366 360-871-8478 Cell 360-981-4777 [email protected] Today’s Dream, Tomorrow’s Reality Racial Justice Advocacy Team Sue Ferber-Goodspeed, Janean Moriarty, Denise Powell, Barbara Robertson, and Helene Pearch 4806 Bend Drive NE LACEY, WA 98516 360-915-8268 [email protected] Empowering Life…
Cluster Leaders:
Coastal Cluster [Position open]
Evergreen Cluster Kathy Ifft 11702 124th St. E PUYALLUP, WA 98374 253-307-5761
Ft. Vancouver Cluster Jan Sayler and team 25514 NE 165th Street BATTLEGROUND, WA 98604 360-687-5758 [email protected]
Mt. Rainier Cluster Maren K. Johnson 7801 49th Ave. E TACOMA, WA 98443 253-531-3718 (H) 253-297-5414 © [email protected]
Narrows Cluster [Position open]
Olympic Cluster Linda Zeh P O Box 650 ALLYN, WA 98524 360-620-6787 [email protected]
South Sound Cluster Verna Westman 17006 Littlerock Road SW ROCHESTER, WA 98579 360-273-0595 Cell phone 360-508-9523 [email protected]
Three Rivers Cluster Grace Kennedy 2103 35th ST LONGVIEW, WA 98632 360-562-7644 [email protected] Churchwide Board Member From SW WA Synod Women Elected at Triennial 2017 Tina Bigelow 23631 Coburg Place NW POULSBO, WA 98370 360-697-3465 [email protected]
President Kathy Newton Bethany, Longview 2640 Garfield LONGVIEW, WA 98632 360-425-7194 cell 360-442-9441 [email protected]
Vice President Jan Sayler Bethel, Brush Prairie 25514 NE 165th Street BATLEGROUND, WA 98312 360-687-5758 [email protected]
Secretary Jeanne Patterson Silverdale, Silverdale 1546 Bloomington Avenue BREMERTON, WA 98312 360-627-8848 Cell 253-250-5565 [email protected]
Treasurer Kathy Ifft All Saints, Auburn 117021 24th St. E PUYALLUP, WA 98374 253-307-5761 [email protected] Empowering Life… Beyond Incarceration! SWO Prison Mission and Ministry Team Sharon Peterson 253-549-6782 [email protected] Joan Nelson 253-208-3307 [email protected] PO Box 1803 GIG HARBOR, WA 98335
Pamela Deacon-Joyner, 253-590-8068 Chair of SW WA Synod Prison Ministry Board Church Membership: Living Stones Congregation [email protected]
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Southwestern Washington Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Southwestern Washington Synodical Women’s Organization Women of the ELCA Linnea Glover, Swatch Editor 3154 Pear St. SE, Olympia, WA 98501
In This Issue President’s Report Treasurer’s Report Board Meeting Highlights Swatch Information I Important Notice Olympic Cluster Spring Celebra-tion FlyerFort Vancouver Cluster Flyer Gather Upcoming Bible Studies Article on Empowering Life Evergreen Cluster Invitation Region ! Gathering Flyer Region 1 Gathering letter and schedule Region 1 Gathering Registration Form Synod Churches listed by Clusters Contact Information/SWO Calendar of Upcoming Events
Calendar of Upcoming Events
March 23, 2019 Olympic Cluster Spring Celebration, 8:45 AM
Vinland Lutheran Church, Poulsbo, WA March 29-March 31, 2019 Annual Spring Retreat
Black Diamond Camp, Auburn, WA May 4, 2019 Ft. Vancouver Cluster Event
Bethel Lutheran, Brush Prairie, WA June 21-23, 2019 Region 1 Gathering
Embassy Suites, Hillsboro, OR October 12, 2019 SW WA SWO Annual Convention
Christ Lutheran Church, Lakewood, WA
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