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New One Mile Mission Giving Opportunity to the Ridgefield Family Resource Center

The RFRC is in need of new underwear for boys and girls in sizes 4-12. You may send a donation to the RFRC directly from Amazon or items may be dropped off at Messiah's Hazel Dell campus front office, Monday-Thursday, 9:00a-noon. If you elect to ship via Amazon, the recipient address is: Chris Poppert, Rigdefield Family Resource Center, 510 Pi...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club will read "The Water Dancer" for Wednesday, April 7, Gathering

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom. The direct link to this Zoom meeting will be posted here the week of the event. Pr. Kathy facilitates stimulating conversation among Messiah's book club participants each month, drawing upon overarching themes from various storylines in each book. She also provides theological perspective. Lac...
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A Week of Meals for the Homeless at WHO

You are invited to participate!   You are invited to help feed 25 men for six days at the Winter Hospitality Overflow shelter housed at St Paul's Lutheran Church in downtown Vancouver. Our dates, to supply dinner only, are Monday, March 22 through Saturday, March 27. On average, each night we'll need about ten people to volunteer to purch...
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Pr. Peter invites you to a 6-week conversation based on a reading of “Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher to the Whitest Denomination in the U.S.” Bonus 7th session with the author!

Tuesdays at 6:00a | Wednesdays at 10:00a | sessions begin March 9-10 | RSVP required via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | the reading schedule is below   Pr. Peter and Intern Pr. Maggie invite you to join them in reading and discussing Pr. Lenny's book, Dear Church. Part manifesto, part confession, and all love letter, Dea...
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"Shining Through: Snapshots of Grace" - Lenten midweek service message series

As part of your Lenten season discipline for 2021, Prs. Kathy and Peter invite you to participate in online midweek services, Wednesdays, February 24-March 24, all starting at 6:00p. If you're unable to view the broadcast at that time, you may catch up on the recorded services at their published link anytime after their 6 o'clock posting. As part o...
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Preschool Registration for 2021-22 begins this Saturday, Feb. 20

This will be a Drive-thru event at the Hazel Dell campus.   The 2-page Registration Update Form is for those children currently enrolled at Messiah Preschool. Registering a sibling new to Messiah? Please download the 5-page registration packet or pick one up from the preschool office. Thank you for your patronage!Registration Reminders:*F...
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Ash Wednesday services this Feb. 17 at 10a and 6p. What's it all about?

Direct link to the 10a livestream service »   Direct link to the 6p livestream service »  What is Ash Wednesday?This holiday (holy day) has been observed by Christians for over one thousand years. Ash Wednesday marks the first day of the season of Lent (40 days before Easter). Why ashes? Why a cross?For centuries, ashes have symboliz...
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Lenten Season Supply Bags Available

Pack include ashes for Ash Wednesday, February 17   If you missed the Drive-thru Communion, there are still two ways to get your Lenten Supplies Bag. 1. Stop by the front office of the Hazel Dell campus, Mon.-Thurs., 9:00a-noon. 2. Call (360.574.7081) or email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to have your bag personally delivered to your doo...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club reading "Meet Me at the Museum" for Wednesday, March 3, Gathering

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom. Direct link to this Zoom meeting » Pr. Kathy facilitates stimulating conversation among Messiah's book club participants each month, drawing upon overarching themes from various storylines in each book. She also provides theological perspective. Lack of conversation is never a challenge as eve...
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Pr. Lenny's Semi-Annual Meeting Report

Listen to Pr. Lenny's report from the Semi-Annual Meeting of the Congregation on Sunday. He updates us on all things Jubilee and shares exciting data and insights on this emerging ministry. Follow along on the transcript below: Pr. Lenny's Report transcript powered by Sonix—easily convert your video to text with Sonix. Pr. Lenny's Report was ...
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Winter Hospitality Overflow (WHO)– Item Collection during Drive-Thru Communion, February 7

Many of our congregation have volunteered at WHO in the past. This winter, as with everything else, is different due to the pandemic. However, WHO is thriving and so are the men staying there. This is the 18th year for St Paul's Lutheran Church in downtown Vancouver to host this place for homeless men to spend the winter nights. This year, its name...
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Shrove Tuesday Party Packs. Pick up yours at the Drive-thru Communion on Feb. 7.

You are invited to participate in Messiah's congregation-wide at-home Mardi Gras/Shrove Tuesday pancake celebration on February 16! There are three steps to participating. 1. Let us know you'd like to participate by using this online sign-up »We'll put together a Shrove Tuesday Party Pack just for your household that w...
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Drive-thru Communion on Sunday, Feb. 7. Receive your Shrove Tuesday Party Pack, Ash Wednesday ashes, and Lenten season bag. Bring your Food on the 4th and WHO items.

Drive-thru will begin at approximately 11:00a | Messiah's pastoral team and staff members invite you to participate in a drive-thru Communion experience on Sunday, February 7, rain or shine. As the livestream of worship ends, drive to the Hazel Dell campus parking lot ... - for an in-person Holy Communion experience - to receive individual prayer f...
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Neighborhood Dinner Ministry Takes Shape. You can help.

Please share this opportunity with both those who might benefit by receiving a weekly dinner or assisting the ministry. An outreach to those experiencing food insecurity in our own backyards | Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? - Mt. 25:37b Messiah's local...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club will discuss "How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents," Wednesday, 02.03.21

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom. Direct link to this Zoom meeting » Pr. Kathy facilitates stimulating conversation among Messiah's book club participants each month, drawing upon overarching themes from various storylines in each book. She also provides theological perspective. Lack of conversation is never a challenge as eve...
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Semi-Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Sunday, January 31, at 11:00am - Register to receive the Zoom link and Bulletin of Reports

To register, and you must, please click here » Thank you for making plans to attend this twice-a-year Meeting of the Congregation. Once registered, Office Administrator Sally Dost will email you the Zoom link for this online event. A few days before the meeting, you will also receive an emailed .pdf attachment of the spellb...
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Walking with Wonder on Wednesdays begins January 6

Intern Pr. Maggie and Pr. Kathy invite you to be their guest for a weekly reflective walk. Get out in creation, listen, and enjoy God's presence. Walks are on Wednesdays at 1:00p. We will meet, read a brief reflection, and then walk for about 30 minutes. Intern Pr. Maggie invites you to bring something to drink and a chair for more conversation aft...
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Year-end Giving at Messiah

In so many respects, 2020 has been one of those years we will remember for all the wrong reasons. Fill in the blank with your own. Despite the difficulties of this year, Messiah continues to be a community that worships and welcomes passionately, teaches and engages faithfully, serves generously, and comforts compassionately. "We are what he has ma...
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Messiah Preschool is Reopening with In-Person Classes January 19

Thank you so much for completing the Parent Feedback Forms and for sharing your thoughts regarding a return to in-person preschool. The majority of you expressed an interest in returning to the classroom in January. Both the Preschool Advisory Board and the church's leadership have reviewed the parent feedback as well as the preschool's reopening p...
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Community Groups Forming and Re-Forming for new 8-week cycle. NEWLY ADDED Contemplative Prayer Practice Group with Pr. Kathy & Intern Pr. Maggie.

Messiah's initial experiment with two community groups was a success. We are now preparing to launch the second cycle of community groups that will last for eight weeks. If you are interested in joining a community group (or simply being a guest to see what it's about), please fill out this 30-second survey preference form » Aft...
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Pr. Peter invites you to an 8-week conversation based on a reading of “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents” by Isabel Wilkerson. Online sessions only in their first week. Newcomers welcome.

Just named one of the 10 best books of 2020 by The Washington Post. |  Tuesdays at 6:00a | Wednesdays at 10:00a | RSVP required via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | the reading schedule is below In her new book, Pulitzer Prize author Isabel Wilkerson observes that race in America is the visible agent of the unseen force of...
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Christmas Eve at Messiah

Messiah is providing a full slate of live-streamed Christmas Eve worship opportunities throughout the day from the Hazel Dell campus sanctuary. Pick the time that works best for you. 10:00am Traditional Carols and Candlelight Servicedirect link to service »5:00pm Families with Young Children Service, which includes an at home pageantdirect link to ...
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Drive-thru Communion Sunday, Dec. 20. Along with the Sacrament, all sorts of good stuff—including Christmas Eve candles and glow sticks.

Drive-thru will begin at approximately 11:00a |   Messiah's pastoral team and staff members invite you to participate in a drive-thru Communion experience this Sunday, December 20, rain or shine. As the livestream of worship ends, drive to the Hazel Dell campus parking lot ... - for an in-person Holy Communion experience- to receive ...
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Comfort and Hope Service - Dec. 15 at 7:00p

direct link to the online broadcast » The Comfort and Hope Service began as a ministry for people who are hurting, especially during the holidays. The season and its festivities often make people acutely aware of their losses. Decorations, Christmas carols, and the empty chair at the dinner table often remind those in grief of the loved o...
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Jessica Potts accepts new role at Messiah

The Church Leadership Team (CLT) is pleased to announce that Jessica Potts has accepted an additional staff role at Messiah as Director of Finance and Operations. She takes on this new responsibility alongside her work as Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. This new position was deemed critical to freeing the pastors of some administrativ...
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Share your Nativity displays with the Messiah community

We invite you to share photos of the nativity sets in your home for everyone at Messiah to enjoy. Simple, elaborate, humorous, gaudy, big, small, we want them all. It will be an expression of how we're all bringing the Christ child home this Christmas season. We plan to share your photos with first name and last name initial attribution (...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club will discuss "As Bright as Heaven" for 01.06.21 meeting

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom.  Direct link to this Zoom meeting »  Pr. Kathy facilitates stimulating conversation among Messiah's book club participants each month, drawing upon overarching themes from various storylines in each book. She also provides theological perspective. Lack of conversation is never a chal...
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Join the Synod Virtual Choir for the SWWA Synod Service of Lessons and Carols

We invite you to join with members of churches from around our Synod who will sing "Joy to the World" together. This will be the closing hymn of a Lessons and Carols Service that is being created by a group of Synod pastors, deacons and musicians. Each person will record themself singing "Joys to the World" in their own home. Then, Sam Solano, who ...
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Aqua and Advent | Holden Evening Prayer - Advent Wednesday, Dec. 23

Aqua and Advent on Wednesdays of AdventJoin Pastor Kathy and Intern Pastor Maggie this Advent season for a reflective walk. Get out in creation, listen, and enjoy God's presence. Our theme will be "Aqua & Advent: a stream of reflections as we wade into wandering waters." Join us on Wednesday's at 1:00p. We will meet, read a brief reflection, an...
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Advent Festival For Children and Families, Nov. 29

Who, What, Where, When? The Story of Advent, told in Godly Play format  November 29th at 11:30am  Messiah YouTube Channel, Messiah Vancouver  The Journey to Christmas Follow the Path Leading to the Manger Join the prophets, Holy Family, shepherds, and Magi as we remember the journey to meet Jesus for the first time as ...
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Thanksgiving Eve Worship this Wednesday, 11.25.20

Direct link to Messiah's Thanksgiving Eve Service » Yeah, it's been a brutal year. As we post this announcement, we are witnessing exponential growth in COVID-19 infections across our nation and governors everywhere—our own included—are implementing new restrictions on gatherings and activities to slow the spread. Consequently, many of us won't be ...
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A post-election blog from Bishop Rick Jaech - "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" - Mt.5:9

Bp. Jaech leads the Southwestern Washington Synod of the ELCA of which Messiah is a member congregation. |  I am writing this letter on November 5, two days after the elections. Some election results are known and some are still pending. My purpose in writing is not to mourn or celebrate any of the results. Rather, I would like to th...
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One Mile Mission Thanksgiving Food Boxes

Deadline for item drop-off at the Hazel Dell campus is Tuesday, November 17 at noon. Items list is here »  
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Drive-thru Communion, Veterans Day observance, Thanksgiving and Advent goody bags, and more this Sunday, Nov. 15

Drive-thru will begin at approximately 11:00a  |  Messiah's pastoral team and staff members offer the option of drive-thru Communion this Sunday, November 15, rain or shine. As the livestream of worship ends, drive to the Hazel Dell campus parking lot ... - for an in-person Holy Communion experience- to receive individual prayer...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club will read "The Night Watchman" for 12.02.20 meeting

Click here to join the meeting on Wednesday, December 2 » First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom. The direct link will be posted here the week of the event »   Pr. Kathy facilitates stimulating conversation among Messiah's book club participants each month, drawing upon overarching themes from various storylines in ea...
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What God is doing with Jubilee

Greetings in the name of the liberating one, the one who has touched our lives, saved us and died on the cross, Jesus Christ of Nazareth +   It is, as always, my honor to update you on the happenings of Jubilee Collective, the community that you have fostered, loved, invested in, and prayed over.   Jubilee Collective is a n...
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Ft. Vancouver pastors jointly lead Election Eve Prayer Service for the Healing of the Nation

The service premiers on Monday, November 2, at 7:00pm, and comes from Messiah's Hazel Dell campus sanctuary. |  The ELCA pastors of Clark and Skamania Counties are hosting an online prayer service on the eve of our nation's national election. Tune in for the comfort and confidence that God is in control and can heal ou...
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All Saints' Sunday at Messiah, Nov. 1

For all the saints, who from their labors rest,  Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,  Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blessed.  Alleluia, Alleluia!   Each year at Messiah, we observe All Saints' Sunday, a day when we pause to remember those whom we lost most recently and commemorate all the saints who...
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The Gospel of Mark in seven sessions with Pr. Peter and Intern Pr. Maggie

Pr. Peter and Intern Pr. Maggie invite you to join them for a seven-session Bible study through the Gospel of Mark. Attend either the Tuesday Morning Prayer Breakfast (6:00a) or the Wednesday Adult Class (10:00a). You may jump in on any session, any week! Mark is the gospel appointed for reading for the next year during worship starting this Advent...
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The Challenge of Opposites

by Janet Borst, Chairwoman of Messiah's Seeds of Faith Team   It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." - Deut. 31:8.  As Christians and Lutherans, we are familiar with holding two opposing ideas at the same time. We believe in one God, yet three Persons...
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The changing looks of Messiah

And when he [Jesus] got into the boat, his disciples followed him. – Mt.8:23   A year ago, Messiah's leaders and members committed themselves to get in the boat with Jesus, not knowing where the Holy Spirit would take us. After a long discernment process and lots of prayers, we were willing to allow God to use us and our resources to reac...
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Outdoor, in-person Worship Services on Reformation Sunday, October 25

Hazel Dell campus and in Ridgefield.  Hazel Dell campus at 11:15a  In the big backyard of the Intern HouseTo reserve a spot at this outdoor service, click here »   Fairgrounds Community Park in Ridgefield at 4:30pTo reserve at spot at this outdoor service, click here »   It's been a l...
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Outdoor, In-Person Communion Opportunities with Messiah’s Pastoral Staff this Wednesday, Oct. 14

Based on participation level and feedback, Prs. Peter and Kathy are continuing their experiment in providing outdoor, in-person Holy Communion services at off-site public parks in Clark County. The services are brief, 10 to 15-minutes each, and accommodate up to five people at a time. The gathering will include music by Charles, prayer, Bible ...
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Kid's time with optional themed dinner will be part of Jubilee Collective's Wednesday worship this week beginning at 6:30p. Worship at 7:00p.

Jubilee Collective is holding a queer-affirming space for kids to be seen and heard, wherever they are and no matter their age. Beginning October 14th, 2020, children are invited to join us via Zoom at 6:30pm to gather and spend time in fellowship with each other before Jubilee Collective's online service. Every meeting will have an optional themed...
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School Supply Drive for Eisenhower Elementary

by Jessica Potts. Eisenhower Elementary is in need of school supplies for students. They have gone through a lot of supplies already this school year. Specifically they are looking for: CrayonsSharpened PencilsPencil BoxesColored PencilsWide-Ruled Loose Leaf Paper If you would like to participate in this One-Mile-Mission support, ple...
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October Giving Campaign for WHO

Dear Friends, In 2002 the Vancouver/Clark county faith community took a leap of faith and began The Winter Hospitality Overflow [WHO] ministry. The WHO is located at St Paul and St Andrew Lutheran Churches. The ministry provides 80 of our most vulnerable neighbors a safe, warm, and predictable place to rest. We operate during the coldest and wettes...
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Lenten Season Vespers in Pandemic (VIP) - A super-safe in-person worship experience with Charles Reinmuth

Sign up using this link » to receive your designated date and time to arrive for worship on Mondays and Tuesdays during Lent. Charles Reinmuth invites you to the sanctuary at 6:00pm at Messiah's Hazel Dell location for a unique 20-minute evening prayer service centered on "Holy Cross" Services take place weekly on Mondays and Tuesday...
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Al-Anon is here for you during COVID

Are you worried about someone else's drinking? Al-Anon is a fellowship open to anyone who feels his or her life has been affected by someone's drinking, either currently or in the past. All family members or friends are welcome to attend Al- Anon meetings in order to decide for themselves whether Al-Anon can benefit them. There are free, online Al-...
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Treat Street 2020 - 10.25.20

Messiah will be hosting a drive-thru Treat Street event on Sunday, October 25, from 4-6pm. Everyone is welcome. We encourage you to invite your friends. Spaces in the parking lot will be marked out and decorated for a safe and fun fall event for kids. Messiah's Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, Jessica Potts, needs volunteers willi...
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Director Charles invites the congregation into an interesting ministry opportunity

Charles Reinmuth and the choir invites the whole congregation to engage in a new experiment: Let's plan worship music together! Whether you're a natural Mozart or you simply tap your foot to tunes you know and love, your presence and input at this special event is most welcomed and encouraged. This experiment will take place via Zoom. Charles, Mess...
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Outdoor, In-Person Communion Opportunities with Messiah’s Pastoral Staff

Prs. Peter and Kathy are trying an experiment. They will provide outdoor, in-person Holy Communion services at three off-site public parks in Clark County. The services will be brief, 10 to 15-minutes each, and accommodate up to five people at a time. Pastors are offering two or three service times at each location. The informal worship will includ...
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Seeing through the Smoke

"And the one who was seated on the throne said, 'See, I am making all things new.'" - Rev.21:5   As I look out my window, I can barely see my neighbor's house today. I see the thick cloud of smoke and smell the ash. My greatest concern is for those who are being impacted by the wildfires. I pray for those who have lost loved ones and...
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Drive-thru Communion opportunity this Sunday, 09.20.20 ... and so much more.

Drive-thru will begin at approximately 10:45a   Messiah's pastoral team and staff members are offering the option of drive-thru Communion and a whole lot more at the Hazel Dell campus this Sunday, September 20. As the live stream of worship ends, they invite everyone who would like: - an in-person Holy Communion experience- the oppor...
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Liz Bailey leaves her staff position to dedicate more time to her Reiki practice

Liz Bailey, Director of Children and Family Ministries for the past two years, recently submitted a resignation letter to the Church Leadership Team. In her letter, she wrote of her gratitude for the blessings that the position brought to her. She now feels "called to commit to Reiki as my ministry. Giving Reiki gives me so much life and energ...
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Immediate Disaster Response for Willamette Valley Migrant Families

As recovery and support efforts begin for Oregon communities severely impacted by fires, Messiah is immediately partnering with the Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice (IMIrJ) organization of Oregon. Its executive director, Alaide Vilchis Ibarra, is the former policy director of the ELCA's advocacy office in Washington, D.C. Forgotten in much...
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Current Pastoral Care options during COVID

Prs. Peter, Kathy, Lenny, and Maggie know there's probably a lot going on in your life right now. Would you like to have some time with one of the pastors? Here are some options for pastoral care. Pastors Peter and Kathy have been meeting with people one-on-one in outdoor spaces and having phone calls or zoom visits. All you need to do is email or ...
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Opportunities to meet Pastoral Intern Maggie

Opportunities to meet Pastoral Intern Maggie As you can imagine, beginning an internship in the middle of a pandemic presents some challenges in getting to know the congregation. To help ease Maggie's transition, Pastors Peter, Kathy, and Maggie seek people willing to meet in person for a brief visit. The pastors and Maggie will bring their own out...
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Help us get you timely and important information about Children and Youth Ministries

by completing a new online registration form |   As we begin a new school year, it is time to make sure Messiah staff have accurate information about the congregation's children and youth. This way, Jessica, Megan, and others can provide programming information accurately and efficiently. If you have a child(ren) or student you would...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club will discuss "The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek" for Wednesday, November 4 meeting

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom. The link will be posted here the week of the meeting. Pr. Kathy facilitates stimulating conversation among Messiah's book club participants each month, drawing upon overarching themes from various storylines in each book. She also provides theological perspective. Lack of conversation&nbs...
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Your are invited to "The Freedom of a Christian" | twice-weekly opportunities

Tuesdays at 6am | Wednesdays at 10am | "The Christian [person] is a completely free lord of all, subject to none. The Christian [person] is a completely dutiful servant of all, subject to all." - M. Luther   Five hundred years ago, Martin Luther wrote a treatise titled "The Freedom of a Christian." In it, he offered his most compelling su...
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Your Seeds of Faith benevolence dollars are producing good during the pandemic

by Janet Borst, Chairperson of Messiah's Seeds of Faith Team | It is no surprise that the pandemic has affected many aspects of our lives. Church is no exception, and the Seeds of Faith, Messiah's local benevolence distribution team, is no exception. But exciting things have happened, nevertheless. The stay at home orders came in the midd...
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Prayer Walk is this Sunday, September 20, at 11:50a

Connect in-person with your friends from Messiah | Event begins at Hazel Dell Campus | Come to the Drive-thru Communion and stay for the Walk  You're invited to join Theresa Zimmer and other Messiah members in a socially-distanced prayer walk around the neighborhood near the Hazel Dell campus. We'll depart from the church at 11:50a a...
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Queer Theology: From Welcome to Radical Affirmation. A new 7-week class offered by Pr. Lenny

Pr. Duncan is offering a 7-week Bible study that begins with the ELCA's social statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust (2009). The class is via Zoom on Tuesdays from 6:00-7:00p, August 18-September 29.To download the social statement, click here »To get the Zoom link to the class, contact Pr. Lenny here »
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Drive-through Farewell for Intern Pr. Taran following worship this Sunday, 08.16.20

As part of the live stream of worship on Taran's final Sunday service this weekend, we will include a farewell recognition and liturgy. Taran will preach his swan song sermon that day. You don't want to miss it at 10:00a. The farewell portion of the service will include a message from his internship committee, reflections from Pr. Peter, ...
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Messiah Preschool delays in-person instruction for fall 2020

by Joyce Handran, Messiah Preschool Director | Hello Messiah Preschool Families, We hope the summer is treating you well and you are enjoying the beautiful weather we have been experiencing these last few weeks. On July 22, Messiah Preschool released its plan to open in September with in-person preschool. Since then, eight Clark County sc...
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New Adult Study on the Book of Acts

Tuesdays at 6:00a | Wednesdays at 7:00p | Facilitated by Pastoral Intern Taran & Pr. Peter | 6-session study via Zoom    The Tuesday Morning Prayer Breakfast Group and Wednesday Adult Class are beginning a study of the Book of Acts using a newly published text by Dr. Matthew Skinner, professor of New Testament at Luther Seminary. The ...
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Lawson Jallah livestream Celebration of Life Service set for Wednesday, July 29 at 9:00am

Direct Link to Livestream »  Friends and family from the US and Liberia will participate in the service simultaneously. While awaiting a liver transplant and battling a blood infection, Lawson Jallah died early in the morning, June 13. He was a well-beloved member of Messiah and a faithful member of the adult choir. He seldom missed a Wednesda...
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Farewell celebration for Intern Pr. Taran on Sunday, August 16. There's still time left to send in your video or written remembrances for the service!

DEADLINE to submit a written or video remembrance for the farewell service to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. extended to Tuesday, August 12, at midnight. Does it seem like it's been a year already? Hardly. But it has been, and we're not about to let a pandemic dampen our spirits. Soon we will celebrate and thank Taran f...
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An opportunity to assist the Ridgefield Family Resource Center - Cards of Encouragement Needed

by Julie Backous, Messiah North Campus Site Coordinator  |   The Ridgefield Family Resource Center has been one of the local public assistance agencies Messiah focuses on all year long. They have been the recipient of many of our food drives and donations. Chris Poppert of Ridgefield School District manages this very active family re...
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Messiah Bids Farewell to Daniel Ortman

The Church Leadership Team and pastors announce that Daniel Ortman, Assistant Worship Leader, is moving on. Because of the "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order, we have missed Daniel's performances over the last few months. It was our great privilege to be able to enjoy worship with Daniel's creative and imaginative guitar playing, singing and performan...
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Brewed Theology - 07.16.2020 - "Can We Talk? What Can We Do? - White Homework* on Racism"

Featuring Tori Glass, anti-racist educator, writer, content creator, and Portland, OR resident. She is the author of White Homework: A Resource for White People Who Want to Do Right. After you register, you will receive a homework piece to complete beforehand. We strongly encourage you to do the work. This is an online Zoom event. This is...
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Unmoored

Greg was recently invited by the Church Leadership Team and pastors to serve in a consultative role with the team and congregation. That's how I've been feeling for 5 months. On January 22 my wife and I left China for a 2-week vacation. We haven't been back since. A storm the size and shape of the coronavirus tore...
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Marsh White retires as Messiah's Custodian

After seven-plus years of serving as custodian of Messiah's Hazel Dell campus, Marsh White has retired. If you ask him, he will tell you this is the third time he's retired after various long-term work pursuits in later life. During his years of looking after the interior of Messiah's primary facility, Marsh witnessed many changes in its utilizatio...
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Brewed Theology - "Can We Talk? What Can We Do? - White Homework* on Racism" - Thursday, June 18

A two-part Brewed Theology on June 18 and July 16 via Zoom.  This is an RSVP event. Registration is required »   The world feels different these days after the death of George Floyd. His death ignited the energy, anger, passion, and conscience of people of all colors. After weeks of protests in cities, both big and small, demands for...
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Live Godly Play® offered during Sunday Worship - Zoom doors open at 9:45a

UPDATE 07.30.2020 - Sunday morning Godly Play® is in a four-week break. Megan and Liz will return Sunday, August 30.   UPDATE 07.18.2020 - In addition to a library of video recorded Godly Play® lessons, Megan and Liz Bailey are providing a live, interactive session via Zoom contemporaneous with Messiah's live stre...
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Return to In-Person Worship Survey

You are invited to complete a one-minute online survey that will assist the pastoral and Church Leadership Teams in planning for in-person worship once health professionals determine that it is safe to reopen using guidelines from state and local officials. There are only six easy to respond to prompts. One survey per household, please. t...
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Bi-Annual Meeting of the Congregation will happen via Zoom - June 7, 2020 at 11am. Register here.

To register (and you must to attend), click here.  To download and read the 2019-20 Report of the Congregation, which includes the meeting agenda, spellbinding ministry reports, and the proposed 2020-21 operating budget, click here. We continue to adapt and consider ways in which we can creatively do ministry during this pandemic season. ...
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Tuesday Prayer Breakfast (6:00a) and Wednesday Adult Class (7:00p) begin new 7-week study on 'Seculosity' on June 2 & 3

Tuesdays at 6:00a  |  Wednesdays at 7:00p  |  Facilitated by Pastoral Intern Taran & Pr. Peter  |  7-week study begins June 2 & 3   The Tuesday Morning Prayer Breakfast Group and Wednesday Adult Class groups requested a summer read that would be "light and fun." This request comes following the g...
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Update: Campaign is fully-funded in four weeks. Church Leadership Team and pastors commit to providing live stream of weekend worship even after COVID. You made it happen!

Updated on June 13, 2020.  Upper Level Goal: $20,000  Received: $22,500  Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! by Pr. Peter | There isn't a week that that passes when Kathy and I don't get an email, text, or phone message, asking, "Will we continue live streaming worship from Messiah after the threat of coronaviru...
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Brewed Theology - 05.14.2020 - Cleaning Up after Covid

The life-changing magic of thoughtful post-pandemic living.   One-time-only on Thursday, May 14, 2020   7:00-8:30p (you may arrive as early as 6:00p) RSVP registration required. Click here to register. Synopsis Marie Kondo popularized the idea of keeping only those things that bring you joy and getting rid of the rest. We've los...
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Pr. Lenny's every-other-week Small Group 'All Read' this Tuesday.

Pr. Lenny invites everyone to a new book study which he and his launch team started May 19th at 7p. The meetings will be conducted via Zoom on an every-other-week basis until the text is thoroughly covered. The book is "For All Who Hunger" newly published on May 15th. It is the story of Rev. Emily Scott as she plants a new church in ...
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Reflections on Seeds by Janet Borst

Janet leads the team responsible for distributing the congregation's benevolence money in the form of grants. They see their work as "planting seeds." Here, Janet puts an interesting spin on this springtime process. - Pr. Peter It's spring, and like all would-be gardeners, I've purchased my seed packets with thoughts of a bountiful harvest. I have,...
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Messiah Preschool is going online

by Joyce Handran, Messiah Preschool Director | "We miss you and want you to know how much you are loved!" This is the message the preschool team hopes all Messiah preschool students and families hear loud and clear. We at Messiah Preschool believe that the best learning methods for preschoolers are play-based and experiential. S...
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Bonhoeffer Expert to visit Prayer Breakfast Group this Tuesday - 04.21.2020

The Rev. Dr. Mark Brocker will be the guest presenter for the Tuesday Morning Prayer Breakfast group on April 21 at 6:00am via Zoom. He will lead a conversation on Dietrich Bonhoeffer's The Cost of Discipleship. Brocker is an expert on Bonhoeffer and his works. He earned his Ph.D. in Theology from the University of Chicago Divinity School. He ...
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Meet Maggie Westaby, Messiah's Pastoral Intern for 2020-21

I am very excited to be your pastoral intern for 2020-21 and feel incredibly blessed to be on this path. Ever since I was a child, I have felt the Spirit of God in the wind. I have felt a calling, and a yearning, for something greater than myself for as long as I can remember. My faith has always been important, thanks to my wonderful parents and C...
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Responding to the COVID-19 Economy: Thoughts on stewardship and generosity by Doug Ruecker

A number of things have revealed themselves during the COVID-19 crisis.One is a seemingly friendlier disposition of people. Have you noticed, while walking the neighborhood or the infrequent visit to the grocery store, how people are so much more courteous and friendly? A smile, a warm hello, while keeping a comfortable distance, goes a long ways i...
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The Triduum Project

3 days | 54 hours | 1 stream  Pastor Lenny and a few dozen of his closest friends have been invited to be part of a 60-hour online vigil for the Three Days called the Tridium traditionally in the church. Each hour will feature a pastor, worship leader, artist, or writer presenting whatever is on their hearts to hold vigil on this Holy Week unl...
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Home preparation for Good Friday Observance at 6:00p

Today as we observe the Holy Day of Good Friday, we stand in awe of the depth of God's love for each one of us. As you contemplate Christ's sacrifice today, the Pastoral team and Charles invite you to watch Messiah's worship for Good Friday Worship, which reflects upon Stations of the Cross. Below are some helpful instructions for your preparation ...
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Palm Pictures for the Pews on Easter

COVID-19 has required us to do ministry in new and creative ways. This Sunday is Palm Sunday. Palm processionals with everyone waving leaves together is a special moment that begins Holy Week. This year, we are not able to wave our traditional leafy palms. However, each of you have been given by God two fleshy palms - one on each hand! We are invit...
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An Easter Invitation to Party

gather balloons, confetti, streamers, cake, mimosas, whatever you need to party | decorate to your heart's content | have wine and bread ready for Communion email us photos of your celebration to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. will show them during the livestream of worship! The most stunning thing happened one Sunday...
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Holy Communion during Messiah’s Livestream Worship this Sunday - 03.07.21

Bible reading for this weekend (03.07.21): Exodus 20:1-17»  Psalm 19»  1 Corinthians 1:18-25»  John 2:13-22»  link to Sunday's livestream worship»   Pastors Peter and Kathy, and Intern Pr. Maggie, with the approval of Bishop Richard Jaech, will be including Holy Communion as part of t...
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Stump the Pastor Children’s Message. A second try this Sunday.

An online worship experiment. Will it work? It depends on who's answering. This weekend (04.05.2020) marks the beginning of Holy Week with Palm Sunday. Various gospel accounts of this day include Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:29-40, and John 12:12-19. In The Beginner's Bible, the story is told on pages 427-432...
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Sunday 03.22 online Worship here

We will be live streaming Messiah's worship on Sunday, March 22, on both YouTube and Facebook. The service will last about 30 minutes and be available for replay for seven days. YouTubeTo participate in today's worship via YouTube, click this link: https://youtu.be/gqe6pEFpBrs(no login required) FacebookIf you have a Facebo...
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Pr. Peter and Intern Pr. Taran invite you to online study and conversation based on Bonhoeffer's "The Cost of Discipleship"

Based on Dietrich Bonhoeffer's "The Cost of Discipleship" | Tuesdays at 6:00am (Prayer Breakfast Group) | Wednesdays at 10:00am  Pr. Peter and Intern Pastor Taran invite you to a new online study starting this week. The course and conversation will be based on a modern classic: "The Cost of Discipleship" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, ...
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Join Pr. Lenny and Special Guest Tori Glass in a Live Stream, Thursday, March 19 at 4:00p

Pr. Lenny and Tori Glass will discuss topics from Lenny's book, "Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher to the Whitest Denomination if the U.S." in a live stream from Messiah's sanctuary. Many congregations across the ELCA are using Pr. Lenny's book for their Lenten season study and will also be viewing and commenting on th...
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"Give us this day our daily bread" and "Forgive us our sins" - Watch Pr. Peter's Lenten Message

Click here for this week's midweek Lenten message by Pr. Peter on the fourth and fifth petitions of the Lord's Prayer.
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Staying Connected to Children’s Ministry during Covid-19 – A Message from Liz Bailey, Dir. of Children’s and Family Ministries

Dear Children and Families of Messiah,  I hope you are all managing well as you read this. This is an interesting time and with that comes many prayers for there are so many feelings that come from this unforeseen situation. I am praying for you all and for all the people around the globe as this effects everyone. With these prayers comes hope...
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Covid-19 Outreach Ministry - Connecting with Compassion

by Pastoral Intern Taran Denning  |  Ministry is still happening at Messiah! We have established a network/web/phone-tree outreach ministry to reach out to households who may have physical or spiritual needs at this time. Volunteers reach out through a compassionate phone call to all of Messiah's households each&n...
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The Cancel Culture of Coronavirus and Our Care for Each Other

... let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25 Cancellations are happening everywhere—March Madness, the NBA, public schools, airline flights. Last night Governor Inslee&n...
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All worship services (both campuses) and onsite church activities are suspended until further notice

A Message from Pastors Peter, Kathy, and Lenny, and The Church Leadership Team Quick Take All worship services (both campuses) and onsite church activities are suspended until further notice.Messiah Lutheran Preschool is suspended until Monday, April 27.Online worship, small groups, and service opportunities are coming soon. There is no fear i...
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