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Creator's Day Camp program is one of our best community outreach programs. Registration forms are available in the church office. Feel free to take forms and give them out to friends and neighbors that might be interested in getting their kids/grandkids into a great church day camp. The camp is led by youth leaders from Camp Lutherwood and is always fun!
If you wish to be an adult or student leader for the camp contact Sharilyn Brooks.
The Reconciling in Christ team is working at crafting an 'Affirmation of Welcome' statement for Creator and needs your help. Please click through to the Collaborative Space for Creator's Affirmation of Welcome page, read, pray, and offer input to help with this important initiative in our congregation's journey.
Former Creator intern Pr. Christian Jennert will be hosting a talk at Creator on Wednesday, April 30, about his experiences with the Reconciling in Christ program at St. Mark's in San Francisco. The talk will be at 7:00 p.m., preceded by a potluck dinner at 6:00 p.m.
Check out the poster.
NOTE:The prior news item, incorrectly claiming that the talk was to be held at St. Mark's, has been removed.
Will Vincent has garden space for anyone who might wish to have a garden and does not have the room to put one in. Will lives about 15 minutes from the church and he is glad to share the space and will work out some sort of watering agreement. If you wish to have a garden spot at Will's contact him.
Skip breakfast at home this Easter (or maybe just have a chocolate egg or two), and let the youth fill you up at the annual Easter Pancake Breakfast. This fundraiser for our youth program will be held between services, in the fellowship hall, at 9:15.
On Saturday, March 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., everyone is invited to come for any or all of the day to help spiff up the church for Easter. Come prepared to clean inside or out depending on your preference. Lunch will be served. This is a fun time to work together to make Creator shine!
This Sunday, March 9th is the start of daylight savings time. Remember to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed Saturday night.
Don't think of it as losing an hour of sleep. Think of it as not having to wait so long to go to church!
Sunday March 9, at 11:30 a.m., after worship, the Youth Leadership Team will meet. The adult support team is also invited.
Sunday March 16, also at 11:30 a.m., after worship, all parents of high schoolers are asked to meet. Important information regarding the summer gathering will be part of the discussion. Please make a point to attend!
Our friends of Holy Family Espicopal Fellowship will be worshiping in the sanctuary every Sunday afternoon from 4:00-6:00. So, if you can't make it for a Sunday morning worship at Creator, you've got another opportunity in the afternoon.
In addition, the 3rd Sunday of every month will be a joint Creator/Holy Family worship. Come out and support our brothers and sisters in Christ. The Episcopal Church and the ELCA are in full communion together.
The Hunger Awareness Team again thanks everyone for their consistent and generous donations of food at the altar for the Oregon Food Bank. The "food of the month" for March is peanut butter. Let's try to build a wall of PB. And, as jelly is always a nice companion of PB, feel free to bring that in, too. However, any non-perishable food is welcome, so there's no need to limit your donations to PB&J
We have a date on the calendar for our next OFB work day. Please mark your calendars for Saturday, April 5th. The time is 9AM to 12 noon, and there will be meeting/car pooling from the church, or go directly to the Food Bank. There will be sign up sheets in the narthex soon!
Back Pack Buddies will gladly accept donations of food or money, also. Useful items for them are individual cartons of 100% juice, individual portions of fruit or vegetables, snack items, such as peanut butter crackers, and cans of soup or tuna.
There are now two times and days to choose from for yoga classes. There is still a class on Friday mornings at 9:00 a.m. A class is now also being offered on Thursday evenings at 6:00 p.m. What a great way to wind down from a busy day! Cost is $6.00 per class.
On April 12, 2008 there will be a benefit dinner and silent auction to benefit the Kyla McCullough Gift Fund. Kyla passed away in 2005, a victim of an inoperable brain tumor, at the age of 7. Her parents, graduates of Portland Lutheran School, have begun this fundraiser in her memory. If you want more information check out www.kylamccullough.com. The fundraiser benefits Doernbecher Children's Hospital and the Make a Wish Foundation.
If you would like to learn more about our community of faith, you are invited to join us on March 9th, after the 2nd service, when we will be offering Membership Exploration/Orientation to all who would like to know more about Creator Lutheran Church. This is a great opportunity to meet some new folks and talk about faith in a safe enironment. By attending these meetings, you are underno obligation to join Creator. New members will join at the Easter Vigil on March 22nd at 7:00 p.m.
Did you know that $30-$50 can provide one month of care for an orphan or an abandoned street child? That $100-$500 can pay school fees and buy a uniform for a child for a year? $25 can buy a goat for a family? Check out the ELCA Good Gifts mini-catalog on the 'Outreach' bulleting board or check out the ELCA Good Gifts website. See what it takes to change a life for a family living in poverty.
The theme of the gathering is "Not Just a Survivor". It is being held at First Lutheran Church in Astoria. We need parents willing to drive and chaperone this event. Let Pr. Dayle know if you can help. Register by April 1st. The cost is $25.
View the postcard!
The synod stewardship committee is hosting its spring stewardship seminar at Creator. Michael Meier, the recently retired director of stewardship for the ELCA, will be the keynote speaker. Michael is an entertaining speaker and his topics will include how we can improve our personal stewardship practices and our congregational stewardship practices. The seminar will start at 9 a.m. with registration starting at 8:30 a.m. We will conclude by 3 p.m. Stay tuned for more details.
Pastor Mark's last Sunday is next Sunday, February 24. Please come to say 'Thank you, farewell, and God speed'. We will have a gathering after the second service to celbrate Pr. Mark's ministry among us.
The theme for our Lenten Journey this year is "Called to the Living Waters." If you are able, bring these items to Wednesday Evening worship:
Wednesday evening worship starts at 7:00 p.m. But show up at 6:15 for Soup and Bread dinner. Choir and Youth follow worship at approximately 7:45.
In order to promote Creator's concern for the environment, and take advantage of huge tax benefits that exist through 2008 only, the Strombergs are donating money to get Creator in on a solar energy project being coordinated through Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon. We hope to be one of a group of churches that will have solar panels installed. For six years the solar power profits will be returned to the investing companies, but after 6 years, Creator receives all the solar power!
If you want more information or would be interested in joining this "Care for Creation" group, please let the office or Paul Stromberg know.
Join Earth Ministry staff and other members for a week of reflection and rejuvenation at Holden Village located high in the mountains above Lake Chelan, WA.
There will be opportunities to participate in Earth Ministry-led workshops such as the Greening Congregations program and environmental advocacy, as well as meditative hikes in the Railroad Creek Valley and surrounding mountains, all in addition to the regular Holden summer program offerings.
This is a great chance to connect with others on faith and environment in a wilderness setting!
Registrations are due February 22nd. The cost is $275 per adult (youth rates are listed on the registration form) and includes everything except transportation.
For more information, see www.earthministry.org, email emoffice@earthministry.org, or call 206-632-2426.
Backpack Buddies Presents: A Dessert Concert Benefiting Clackamas Backpack Buddies
Sunday, February 24th, 6:30 p.m.
Featuring David Lee, Contemporary Pianist, and Julie Hoy, Singer/Songwriter
Come and enjoy some dessert, hear some fabulous music, and help us address childhood hunger in our own community. Please consider becoming a Table Sponsor or Co-Sponsor. Sponsor a table for eight people for $100 or share a sponsorship with some friends.
RSVP no later than Wednesday, February 20 to: Nancy Carlisle at kncarlisle@comcast.net
Thanks to Thrivent Financial for Lutherans for helping to sponsor this event.
Oregon Synod Bishop (and Creator member) David Brauer-Rieke has been appointed by Governor Kulongoski to the Oregon Global Warming Commission. Read the full article here.
The Wednesday night book discussion group, after taking a hiatus for Lenten Services, will be resuming the first Wednesday after Easter, March 26th. The next book for study is The New Man - An Interpretation of Some Parables and Miracles of Christ by Maurice Nicoll.
See Gary Schulstad to get a copy of the book and join this increasingly popular study group.
From 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. on Leap Day, Friday February 29th, Creator will have a VeggieTales movie night and PJ party. Wear your PJs & bring your sleeping bag! All ages are welcome!
Paul and Carol Hinderlie, directors of Holden Village, are coming to Creator to talk about Holden Village, it's mission, and it's programs. They will present during the Sunday Education time on March 9th.
Please contact Portland Lutheran School by February 29 to RSVP. Individual tickets are $65.00 each, or sponsor a table. Tickets may be purchased online at portland-lutheran.org/auction
Come to the Waters is the theme of the National WELCA Convention this summer, July 10-13 in Salt Lake City, Utah. For information check www.womenoftheelca.org or call 1-800-638-3522 x2730 or talk to Nita Hoops.
If you are interested in spending 3 days learning how to foster the expansion of the Reconciling in Christ program or other welcoming programs within area congreagations, contact the Creator Church office, or register online at www.lcna.org/ric
Be a part of welcoming the Ntiranyibagira family from Burundi to church with us on Sundays by helping to bring them to church. A sign-up sheet and directions are located on the sign-up board in the narthex.
If you want to donate food items for Backpack Buddies , the suggested menu items are:
Giants: 17
Patriots: 14
Winners: Backpack Buddies and Oregon Food Bank
Thanks to all who brought food for the Souperbowl. Creator collected 118 lbs. of food for two good causes. Great job, team!
Please bring donations of any surplus, unexpired, non-perishable foods for the Oregon Food Bank during the month of February.
Each Wednesday evening during Lent, February 13 through March 12, join us for soup and bread at 6:15 p.m., followed by Lenten Worship at 7:00 p.m.
Please try to take time out of busy schedules to spend this time of quiet reflection during the season of Lent.
Choir practice and Youth Group will follow worship.
This year the cantata will be 'Agnus Dei'. Come and take part in a very worshipful, hopeful musical experience at Creator! Agnus Dei is a choral setting of many songs written by Michael W. Smith. Our choir, instrumentalists, children, narrators, and dancers have all come together to share this Christmas message with you. Invite some friends along and make an evening of it.
If you want to participate, it isn't toolate to join in. Contact Kelly Carlisle or David Lee if you wish to play or sing.
December 7 & 8 at 7:00 p.m., December 9 at 3:30 p.m. St. Michael's Lutheran Church 6700 NE 29th Ave, Portland
This concert features the Concordia Choir, handbell, brass, and string ensembles
Next Saturday, December 8th, at 4:45 p.m. people will meet in the parking lot at church to carpool to the annual progressive dinner. If you've signed up, please remember to bring your dish to share and don't forget to bring your "white elephant" gift to exchange.
Join us Wednesday nights until Christmas for our Advent activities.
6:15 - Soup and Bread Potluck
7:00 - Advent Worship
After worship - Choir Rehearsal
After worship - High School Youth Nights
Saturday, November 17th, 7:00 p.m. at Milwaukie Lutheran Church. A free-will offering will be taken to benefit ongoing ministries in Liberia.
The first Wednesday in Advent will be on November 28th (actually before Advent begins). Please plan to come at 6:15 p.m. for soup and bread and 7:00 p.m. for a wonderful concert by John Nilsen.
On November 21, Thanksgiving Eve worship will be at 7:00 p.m. followed by fellowship and PIE!! Our friends from Holy Family Episcopal fellowhip will be joining us for worship. Please sign up on the bulletin board to bring pie to share on that evening. Come and give thanks.
Did we mention that there will be pie?
Please bring donations of canned soups, stews, and chili for the Oregon Food Bank during the month of November. The Hunger Awareness Team thanks you!
The grade school pumpkin patch outing is set for today. Meet at Liepold Farms, 14480 SE Richey Rd, Boring at 1:00 p.m.
Once (and only once) a year we let the youth take over worship. Don't miss Youth Sunday 2007, on November 4th when youth of all ages run the show and dazzle us with their talents and, er... youthfullness.
Youth who haven't gotten connected yet can contact Pr. Mark. There will be a final rehearsal Saturday, November 3rd, at 10:00 a.m.
The harvest festival is on October 24, at 6:30 p.m. This year Holy Family Espiscopal will partner with us on this event.
Bring soup for the potluck, and show up in costume, if you dare! There will be a pumpkin decorating contest (bring it already decorated), candy, and fresh apple cider pressing.
We are asking that each family also bring a can of chili for the Oregon Food Bank.
A list of items, and details, for Saturday's Blessings Auction is posted here.
Don't miss this fun event!
This year we are doing Agnus Dei as our Christmas cantata. If you're interested start showin' up on Wednesdays at 7PM! (Calendar) The performances are scheduled for Dec. 21-22 (Friday, Saturday).
The Habitat for Humanity youth work day scheduled for Friday, October 19 has been postponed due to the roofing not being completed yet. Stay tuned for future volunteering opportunities.
Spend an evening with sparkling, dynamic people including our new bishop. The synod stewardship committee is sponsoring fall cluster gatherings this year at seven locations around the state. Creator is hosting one of these gatherings on Thursday, October 25, starting from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Come out and meet our new bishop and get the scoop on what's happening with your synod.
We continue our dialog with Holy Family Episcopal Fellowship and are having another potluck and worship service on Sunday, October 21. Potluck at 5:00 p.m. and Worship at 6:00 p.m. Please join us as together, with God's help and guidance, we discern what the future holds for our two communities.
If you missed Luke's August video presentation about the worthwhile and eye-opening El Salvador trip that Nita Hoops, Luke, Josh, and Debi Stromberg took this summer, you have another chance to get informed about an oppressed yet hopeful people. Please mark your calendars for Sunday, October 21st at 11:30 a.m. (immediately following the late service!).
Also, on Friday, Oct. 26, 7:00 -9:00 p.m., the Strombergs will be hosting a wine and cheese art show to display (and make available for purchase) artwork by El Salvadoran artist Fernando Llort and his students from the Trazos do Luz (Rays of Light) Art Project which provides kids from gangs in El Salvador an escape.
We will also introduce Sean Hale, acting director of the Texas-based Foundation for Self Sufficiency in Central America, who will share a little about U.S. delegation trips and the work FSSCA does in El Salvador to bring about Self Sufficiency. Please join us! RSVP preferred, but not necessary!
Creator has a new book discussion group starting up on Wednesday evenings. We will be looking at The Secret Message of Jesus, by Brian McLaren. The book is divided into 3 parts, and we'll take on one part each week as follows:
Each session will run from 6:15 to 7:00 in the youth room.
UPDATE (10/14): The start time has been moved up from 6:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.
The 3rd Annual Blessings Auction is almost here and we need your help. Everyone will receive a martini glass (non-alcoholic beverages available), food and dessert !
The auction committee is looking for high quality items to put in the auction. Please consider donating...
The committee is also looking for 200 people to come to the event, and that can only happen if you invite people from outside the church. What a great outreach to our community! Part of the proceeds will benefit a September 2008 Carnival for the neighborhood!
5:00 - 6:00 at Sinks; 6:15-7:15 at Askey-Overvolds; 7:30-8:30 at Church
October 13th is the All Creator Date! Volunteers are needed to help with the build. If you can help out, please contact Paul Kemp.
For the Canby project, HFH has also set up a phone number (503-860-5283) for messages and updates on the work schedule. Volunteers can call this number to say when and what day they can work, plus confirm if there will be work going on at the site.
And don't forget, the Creator Youth work day is October 19th.
The Hunger Awareness team is asking for donations of peanut butter for the month of October.
Starting Sunday, September 30, the Mark Allan Powell videos: "How Lutherans Interpret the Bible" will be back by popular demand. In November we'll be studying the lectionary texts using the "Community Bible Study Process." During the weeks in Advent we'll discuss "Waiting." While these classes meet in the sanctuary, simultaneously, a study and discussion for the men of Creator will be offered in Pr. Dayle's office.
On October 7, 14 and 21 we will be offering Membership Exploration/Orientation to all who would like to know more about Creator. This is a great opportunity to meet some new folks and talk about faith in a safe environment. By attending these meetings, you are under no obligation to join Creator. There will be something for everyone: lifelong Lutherans, transfers from various denominations, new Christians, folks who are exploring Christianity for the first time, those who just want to learn more about the faith… all are welcome! Please plan to join us for these sessions. During these sessions we will be discussing topics such as the Bible, Church history and teachings, sacraments, redemption and forgiveness and living the faith.
We will meet for about 1- 1 ½ hr. following the 10:15 service in the fellowship hall. Snacks will be served. New members will be received at the 10:15 service on November 4. Please call the church office at 503-698-8081 to let us know how many in your family will be attending and also let us know if your children will be attending so that we can arrange childcare for young children.
On October 7, following the 10:15 a.m. worship service, we will have a pet blessing. Bring your pets or your stuffed animals for a prayer and a blessing. We will also remember pets who have died at this service. This coincides with the commemoration of St. Francis (October 4) who was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant and in a public confrontation with his father renounced his wealth and inheritance to serve the poor. Francis loved God’s creation and this time of year is a traditional time to bless pets and animals.
The work on the Habitat for Humanity Canby build continues. The wall framing is up, work has begun on the roof, and is about to begin on the porch. Thanks go to Nita Hoops for the photos which you can view on the photos page.
If you'd like to volunteer some time to this worthwhile project, contact Paul Kemp. The Creator youth are scheduled to work on Friday, October 19.
"Where Have All the Men Gone?"
"Coming of Age is a conference born out of a long and faithful study that actually talked and listened to men. If you are a pastor, or teacher or just someone with sons or men in you life that are absent from the church you need to hear their answers and begin to ask yourself the new questions of what we're now to do in the church to minister to men."
This conference focusing on men's ministry will be held at St. Matthew in Beaverton. More information can be found here. If you are interested in attending, contact Pr. Mark or Toni Hartung in the church office.
An intergenerational event to nurture disciples and empower congregations
The event will be held at Resurrection Lutheran in Portland on October 12 and 13th and features composer Marty Haugen ("Holden Evening Prayer") and Susan Briehl. Registration forms are in the narthex. More information can be found on the Oregon Synod website here.
Be at Creator at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday night, October 6th for the annual lock-in. Games, devotions, movies, and fun! Sign up on the youth bulletin board. Bring $5 to cover the cost of late night snacks.
Join your synodical sisters at the Jantzen Beach Red Lion to celebrate Women of the ELCA’s 20th birthday with Bible study, music, entertain-ment, learning opportunities, interesting speakers, special guests, and much, much more.
Contact Nita Hoops for more information on this exciting event.
Read about the installation of Bishop David Brauer-Rieke in the Oregonian here.
We've also got some pictures posted in our Photos section.
Come on out Wednesday nights at 7:00 p.m. (starting October 3rd) for choir rehearsals. There is a lot of great, fun music planned for this season, including the always popular Agnus Dei cantata for the Christmas program.
Saturday, September 29th, at 1:00 p.m. (immediately following the blood drive) we will have our annual event planning meeting for our grade school children. Last year's meeting was the genesis of our wildly successful family camping trip (photos). Come and be a part of this exciting ministry.
Confirmation classes for the middle school youth are starting up again! This Wednesday, September 26th, at 6:30 p.m., we will kick off with a youth and parent orientation meeting to discuss and explore the upcoming year's classes and other exciting events planned for the middle school youth.
This meeting will be followed by the high school youth parent meeting (below).
Wednesday Youth Nights for the high school youth are starting up again! This Wednesday, September 26th, at 7:30 p.m., we will kick off with a youth and parent orientation meeting to discuss and explore the upcoming year's season of exciting events.
This meeting will be preceded by the middle school youth parent meeting (above).
Next Sunday, September 9, is Rally Day! Come and join your Sunday School for a fun kick-off to the year. We have Christian Education for all ages.
We are VERY excited about Sunday School this year. We're using a day camp-ish format. Come check it out!
On Sept. 9th, we'll ALL gather in the Sanctuary for music and prayer as our teachers/helpers are introduced-- so class time will be a bit abbreviated this Sunday. The kids will also receive a special treat!
We'll begin promptly at 9:15 a.m. in the Sanctuary on the 9th. On following Sundays kids from age 3 thorugh 6th grade will meet at 9:15 a.m. in the fellowship hall; middle school youth in the kitchen and high school youth in the youth room... adults will meet in the Sanctuary. Sunday School ends at 10:00AM.
Please come and check out our new format!
Oregon Interfaith Power and Light, a project of Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, the Energy Trust of Oregon, and Oregon Department of Energy are presenting a fall work-shop entitled “Green Building and Renovations for Con-gregations: A practical workshop to help congregations save money and care for the Earth”. Topics will include principles of energy-efficient building, why energy is a spiritual issue, case studies of successful projects, get-ting the results you want - how to work with contractors and architects, Energy Trust of Oregon and OIPL pro-grams and resources, generating energy on-site, financ-ing and rebate opportunities available to congregations, integrating energy efficiency with aesthetic and spiritual concerns, and tips for working with your congregation. The cost is $30. Discounts are available on groups from a single congregation. Lunch is available for a suggested donation of $8.
This workshop will be held Tuesday, October 2nd from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Lutheran Church. 12405 SW Butner Road, Beaverton. For more information or to register, please call (503) 221-1054 x203 or go to www.emoregon.org to download a registration brochure.
We now have a sign-up sheet posted in the narthex for our refugee family, which includes both one-time items we can donate each month. If you sign up, please bring the items by the second Sunday of the month, so that our volunteer driver that month can make a single delivery.
The Livestrong Challenge takes place on September 30. You can sign up to ride your bike or walk a 5K for the Bethany's Bikers (and walkers) team online at livestrong.com. The event begins and ends at the Nike campus in Beaverton and is the main fundraiser for the Adolescent and Young Adult Clinic at OHSU. Call Toni Hartung if you have any questions.
This year Creator is again forming a team for the Light the Night Walk, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's nationwide evening walk to raise money for research to cure blood cancers. This year's walk is on September 28. The walk begins and ends at the World Trade Center in Portland. Registration is at 6:00 p.m. and the walk begins at 7:30 p.m. The team name is Bethany's Boosters and we walk in memory of Bethany Hartung. This is a very easy walk. To register for Bethany's Boosters, visit lightthenight.org, select register to walk, select join a team, search by team name or team captain (Nancy Carlisle). If you can't walk, you can make a donation. Contact Nancy Carlisle if you have questions.
On September 9th, at 11:00 a.m. the D'Feet ALS walk will take place at Waterfront Park. Team Dees Feet is a team supporting Dee Craig. Go to www.walkor.alsa.org to join the team or become a virtual walker with a donation.
Justin Farrell works for Catholic Community Services of Western Washington and they are looking for new foster homes in the Portland Metro area for the children they serve. If you are interested, there are flyers in the narthex or just talk to Justin.
Need zucchini? Want some garlic or cucumbers? Check the table as you enter the church and 'shop'. A goodwill donation for the produce will go to the Oregon Food Bank.
Construction on the Canby Habitat build will continue throughout the summer. Volunteers are still needed to help with the build. If you can help out, please contact Paul Kemp.
The Hunger Awareness team is asking for donations of canned tuna for the month of September.
Don't forget that we return to 2 services this Sunday. The times are 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. with Christian Education at 9:15 a.m. This means we also need twice as many worship volunteers to fill the spots that make worship happen. Don't forget to sign up for a day and time to help out. Check out the signup sheet in the narthex, or look here and contact Toni Hartung at the Creator Office.
All are invited to the installation of the new Oregon Bishop, the Rev. David Brauer-Rieke. The installation will take place at noon at the Chiles Center, University of Portland, located at 5000 N Willamette Blvd.
Rev. Mark S Hanson, bishop of the ELCA will preside. This will be a huge celebration, with our own Kelly Carlisle directing the mass choir. Please come to rejoice and celebrate.
The mass choir will be made up of anyone and everyone who wants to sing. Optional rehearsal will be on September 16, 4:00-5:30 p.m. at Creator and a required rehearsal will be on September 22, 10:00-11:15 a.m. at the Chiles Center. The anthem will be "For the Beauty of the Earth", arranged for SATB by John Rutter. Contact the church office if you wish to join the choir and receive your music.
More information can be found on the Oregon Synod site here.
Creator's annual Golf Scramble will be held September 16. Watch for that sign-up sheet and come hit some golf balls!
UPDATE:The sign-up sheet is up. Tee times start at 1:00 p.m. and the dinner and awards ceremony will be held at 6:00 p.m. at Creator.
The annual Ministry Fair will be held on September 23 between services. This is your chance to learn about all of Creator's inreach and outreach ministries and see what calls you!
Following late service on Rally Day, high school youth can carpool to the Strombergs for planning events for the upcoming year, and then swimming. Anyone interested in continuing or joining the youth leadership team is encouraged to be present, but all are welcome! Bring your swimsuit and something to share for lunch (burgers, dogs, & drinks will be provided).
Thirty-two high schoolers are needed to help serve dinner at the Multnomah Arts Center in Portland for their banquet fundraiser for building projects at Lutherwood (like a new pool and poolhouse!). Let Pr. Mark, Sara Gross or the Strombergs know ASAP if you'd like to help, so we can give them numbers! The banquet runs from 4:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Wednesday night Summer Studies are back! Come out at 6 p.m. for a potluck dinner, and stay for a Healthy Habits Bible Study. Bible texts and study questions will be provided. The schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, August 15 - at Carlisles
Wednesday, August 22 - at Strombergs
Wednesday, August 29 - at Beans
Some photo galleries are now online. Find them on the Photos Page. Keep checking back for new photos.
The August newsletter is now posted to the Newsletters Page
The Creator Crossword can be found on the Fun Page.
Creator is celebrating a joint worship service with a new Episcopal community, Holy Family. Please join us on Sunday, August 19th, at 5:00 p.m. for a potluck, followed by worship at 6:00 p.m. Dessert will be served after worship.
This time of worship will have a special focus for children. There will be a children’s message and there will be an activity for kids 6 and under following that message.
UPDATE: The offering from this service will go towards the Backpack Buddies program.
This year's outdoor worship will be August 19th at 9:00 a.m. Bring out your lawn chairs or or blankets as we celebrate God's creation during this special service.
Our monthly food collection for the Oregon Food Bank continues. In May we gathered 127 lbs., and June’s contribution amounted to 240 lbs., which includes the Day Camp donations. We have been collecting tomato products for July. Remember, hunger does not take a vacation. We need to be mindful at all times. For August, we will be collecting healthful snack items for use in the Park Rose schools.
Have you heard of Archbishop Oscar Romero's martyrdom or the many plights of El Salvador (civil war, hurricane, earthquake and flooding)? Come learn about how these suffering people are finding resurrection in the midst of their pain! Luke Stromberg's Senior Seminar project is centered around this informational movie presentation of the recent trip with others from our synod. (If you are unable to come on August 12th, he will be doing a presentation at St. Stephen Lutheran in Gladstone on July 29th at 10am between their services, and possibly another presentation TBA.)
The high school youth kayak and campout will be August 17 and 18 on the Willamette. Kayaks, canoes, and island will be provided! The cost is $20.00. The sign up sheet is on the youth board by Pastor Mark's office. Contact Paul Kemp or Pastor Mark for details.
Come out and join the Hunger Awareness Team for Summer Movie Nights at Creator! The films will start at 7:00 p.m., and we'll have time for discussion afterwards. Please call in advance if child care is needed.
These movies were selected because they help to show how poverty has been viewed over time in our society. The Southener also ties in to Creator’s Backpack Buddies program because it illustrates how children are impacted when they don’t have enough to eat.
2007 Summer Movie Night Schedule:
July 18 - Sullivan's Travels
July 25 - The Grapes of Wrath
August 1 - Sparrows
August 8 - The Southerner
Tuesday July 10, will be the last Lectionary Bible Study and Piecemakers Quilting until September.
Don't forget, Wednesday Night Summer Studies start Wednesday July 11! Details are just two items below.
We’re collecting school supplies through Sunday, August 5th. Last year’s project distributed ‘basic back to school’ packets to about 1000 children and we were a part of it!
Last summer’s gatherings were a HUGE success! Plan on attending sessions this summer:
Wednesday, July 11th: Book discussion on Blue Like Jazz, by Donald Miller
Wednesdays, July 18th - August 8th: Hunger Awareness Movie Nights
Wednesdays, Aug 15th, 22nd & 29th: Healthy Habits Bible Study
Locations and details can be found in the July newsletter
The July newsletter is now posted on the newsletters page.
August 24-26 is the date for our first camp out. Sign up on the table in the narthex. Please contact Tina Monson if you're interested. There's also an opportunity to come to camp for the day.
Micah's Village, across the street at the Grange, has a farm stand on Sundays. Buy fresh, buy local. Support local farmers. There are fresh cut flowers and strawberries.
Please bring donations of tomato products (or other non perishables) for the month of July. Support Creator's Hunger Awareness program.
Ready to get wet and have fun? Think of it as a way of celebrating our baptism.
We are in the process of finalizing plans for the up coming rafting trip. As you probably remember there is a space limit of 18 youth. 6 youth in each boat with one adult captain (David Neketin, Pastor Mark and Myself). We plan on leaving from church on Thursday July 19th at 5 pm. We are going to stop at Calamity Jane's for Dinner then get to the campground at Maupin around 8:30. We hope to get 2 runs in on Friday from Harpham Flat to Sandy Beach. It should be a blast! We will leave Saturday morning and get back to Church around 11:30 or so.
Right now we are looking for a couple of large Family style tents and very large coolers. If you have one that you'd be willing to let us borrow that would be awesome. Also we are looking for a female chaparone who would be willing to help Elizabeth Neketin do the shuttling of the van, (ie would not raft). We also need a good sized car/minivan to help with transportation. If you can help in any way let me know.
You will be getting some more information shortly about what to bring and what not to bring. We also need your money/bucks/dinero. It is $45. (Pretty good deal for 2 nights/meals/transportation and boat). Put it in a Creator Envelop in the offering plate specifying rafting trip and your name. We need to put deposits on the boats and pay for the campground. The first 18 to get this done get to go.
Attached are the Creator Youth Covenant/Medical Release and a release from the company we are renting the boats from. Both of these need to be signed by a parent or guardian and by the Creator Youth. You can give those to me or put them in my box at Church.
Thanks
Paul Stromberg
HELP FEED AND PROVIDE ENRICHMENT FOR HUNGRY KIDS IN OUR COMMUNITY — Creator is among
churches in the area volunteering for the FOODS (Food in Oregon Offered During the Summer) program.
This summer lunch program runs through the North Clackamas School district at 3 low-income areas of
the district and will run for 6 weeks this summer. Tentative dates for our volunteer week are July
23 - 26th (Mon - Thurs during lunch):
Milwaukie High School (11:30 AM - 12:45 PM)
Lewelling Elementary (Noon - 12:45 PM)
Lot Whitcomb Elementary (Noon - 12:45 PM)
(The end time is suggested, volunteers are welcome to stay longer!)
We need a few adult and teen volunteers for each site during our week to distribute lunches prepared by school district food workers and then oversee games and activities for the kids following lunch! (Volunteer one day or several!) Email or call David Biggam (dblmt@aol.com) or Gary Schulstad (gschulstad@gmail.com) by June 5th if you're interested in volunteering, so that your name and birthdate can be submitted for a background check (required for all volunteers, except N. Clackamas students and teachers, or unless proof of another background check).
SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM ACTIVITY SUPPLY DONATIONS — If you have supplies kids would enjoy,
we've offered to donate a large container of supplies to be left at one of the sites this summer.
Clean out your garage and attic, and bring any of the following to church by June3rd:
*A large container to hold the supplies
*Outdoor toys: balls (large or small), jumpropes, beanbags, frisbees
*Games: board games
*Crafts: beads, craft foam, ribbon, yarn, other craft supplies
Tuesday, June 12, join pastors and congregation members from the Oregon Trail Cluster in picking up loose debris and offering prayers and a blessing at Wagon Wheel Park near Molalla, the site where two Hispanic men were recently attacked. We will meet at the park at 1:30 p.m.
Dear Friends,
We have rested up from the big trip to LA and Minnesota and we HAVE A GRADUATE so we are going to
celebrate with an open house from 2 to 4 pm on Sunday, June 3. Please pass the word to all Bethany
supporters that we are going to celebrate her trip and her achievement. We look forward to seeing
many friendly faces and happy smiles. If Bethany isn't feeling well for some reason we will let you
know and re-schedule.
Toni
You probably all know by now that Bethany did receive some airtime on Ellen (about 4 seconds in the opening dance on Monday's show!) Bethany also received an honorary degree from Gustavus. Check out the article on her here.
Kelly wrote an article on backpack buddies that's on the Oregon Synod blog. Check it out here.
Come out for the All-Generations BBQ and Day Camp Program on Thursday June 28, at 6:00 p.m. Volunteers, families, kids, neighbors, Creator BBQ lovers... ALL are welcome to come for food and fellowship and to watch the kids share what they've learned at day camp! Come one and ALL!
All ages - come with or without your family. Gather at Creator at 8:00 a.m. to carpool over, returning around noon. Signup sheets are now available in the narthex.
Day Camp Volunteer Meeting - Sunday, June 10th at 10:00 a.m. We need all teens (and more 18 yrs or older) to help out in a variety of ways! Come see what fits for you!
Day Camp Prep Meeting - Sunday June 24th at 6:30 p.m. We're meeting with Lutherwood staff and having a volunteer potluck!
Click here to see the quilt the synod created for Bishop Swanson. Creator's block is in the upper right hand corner.
Or, go the the synod website, www.oregonsynod.org and go to the synod assembly link.
Creator was well represented at the synod assembly in Eugene over the weekend. Joel Mobley (who serves on synod council), Sara Gross and Peter Overvold (our voting members from Creator), Pr. Dayle, and Pr. Mark were present. The big agenda item was the election of a new bishop. Bishop Paul Swanson has been our bishop for 20 years so we haven't had such a process. The assembly elected Pr. David Brauer-Rieke (currently serving Atonement Lutheran in Newport) as our bishop. Bishop-elect Brauer-Rieke officially takes over on August 1st.
Pr. Dave was in Milton-Freewater for 17 years before taking the call in Newport about 2 years ago. The installation of the bishop will be in the Chiles Center on Saturday, September 22nd. Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson will install the new bishop. The service will be outstanding and all are invited! Put in on your calendar!
Congratulations to Kirsten Maier and Taylor Carlisle, who were both elected to offices with OLYO (Oregon Lutheran Youth Org)
We also recieved a $750 grant from the synod endowment fund for backpack buddies!!
Creator serves social justice with our coffee. We buy Equal Exchange Fairly Traded Coffee through Lutheran World Relief. You will find brochures about this worthwhile program, plus a coffee can for donations to keep the program going, on the coffee hour table. Please support this program - drink up!.
See Vera James to order this coffee for less than bistro coffee. There is a huge selection!
This Thursday the NEW church council will meet at 7:00 p.m. Please note our council usually meets on the third Thursday of the month. Due to conflicts that week the meeting has been moved up. All new memebers are expected to attend.
May 27th is Pentecost - The day we celebrate the fire of the Holy Spirit in the church. It's a RED day... wear red or any "flame" color. We'll be fired up!
Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. and Fridays at 9:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. All are welcome. First class is free! Then, $6 per class or $54 for ten classes.
Friday, May 11 at Diamond Woods Golf course outside of Monroe, Oregon. Thrivent is presenting a benefit event; all money raised will go to Camp Lutherwood. See the poster on the bulletin board for more info.
Congratulations to Pastor Mark, Dena, and Lauren on the arrival of Brandon Tyler Beatty on April 26th. Pastor Mark will be on family leave for the next 6 weeks.
Please join us on May 6th, immediately following the 10:15 service for the semi-annual congregational meeting. The meeting is primarily to elect new church council members. We will also be looking at possible budget changes. Confirmed youth are voting members too!
May 20 - Meeting at 11:00 a.m. Youth going to Holden and their families will get details about Holden weekend and discuss the worship contribution from Creator, talent show ideas, etc.
May 24 - Leave at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday from Creator. Return May 27th late.
Let Pr. Mark or Pr. Dayle know if you are interested in going (includes planning upcoming OLYO events)! Two youth from Creator can attend.
Families are invited to come wish our high school seniors well! It starts at 7:30 p.m. Let Debi know if you can help.
Join us in Promontory Park, Estacada, for faith, fun, and fellowship. Activities will be geared towards the grade school kids, but all families are welcome. Come along for one night, both nights, or just for day or evening campfire fun. Family worship will be held on Sunday morning in the great outdoors. Sign up by May 6th to guarantee a site. The sign up sheet will be in the narthex. Contact Tina Monson or Debi Stromberg with any questions.
Creator Kids of all ages are invited to come play at Sherwood's indoor jungle gym, mini-golf play-land! We'll carpool from Creator at 1:00pm (come about 12:45 to organize carpools!). Bring a friend and maybe a parent to help drive! We'll aim to be back at Creator about 4:30 PM. Other youth groups report that Safari Sams is a blast!
It took two people to replace Ruth (no surprise!). We have two new interim office workers. Wendy Helm will work on publication of our bulletin. She’ll be in the office on Monday and Wednesday. Wendy is Pat Isaac’s niece! Barb Willis will be our receptionist and will do production. She’ll be in the office on Tuesday and Thursday and will run the bulletins and newsletters.
The Dobbe family has volunteered to take over the newsletter production.
Again this is an interim time for our office staff. We are in the process of discernment for creative ways to fill these positions in the future.
To email the office please use: office@creatorlutheran.org
Day Camp is right around the corner! If you can help with anything call Sharilyn Brooks or Sara Gross, our co-coordinators this year. The registration form is here (.pdf).
Also mark your calendars for the Day Camp Reunion on July 14th from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Come and relive the songs and games of Creator Day Camp!
From Memorial Day through Labor Day we have one service at 9:00 A.M. Be aware that Memorial Day Sunday is May 27th and that’s the day we move to one service.
The last day of Sunday School is May 20th
Mark your calendars for the next Creator work day at the Oregon Food Bank: Saturday, June 23rd, 9-noon. It’s a fun and rewarding morning and it makes a great family activity.
The hunger awareness focus item for May is Cereal. Food donations my be placed in the baskets in the sanctuary. Please feel free to bring other foods if you don't have this month's item on hand.
We have an e-mail prayer chain that you can connect with by emailing Pr. Dayle (pastordayle@creatorlutheran.org). If you have someone you’d like to put on the prayer chain for a special prayer let Pr. Dayle or the church office know. This is different from the printed prayer list on Sunday morning. This prayer chain is fast and immediate. We have about 30 pray-ers on the prayer chain!
You have reached the end of the news. As the news items are posted in reverse chronological order, the end of the news is also the beginning of the news. You are to be commended for reading this far. If you are looking for help with the crossword, then know that the big cross is also a cell tower in disguise.