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Reclaiming the “L” Word”: Renewing the Church from Its Lutheran Core

A new online study opportunity via Zoom | Wednesdays at 5:00p (PT), Oct. 6-Nov. 17 | Hosted by Messiah's dear friend and "sister intern," Diane Nokenechny, and supervising pastor, Sarah Dymund |  Trinity Lutheran Church, Regina, Saskatchewan   Pastoral Intern Diane (see information below) and Pastor Sarah Dymund i...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club reading "The Alice Network" for October 6 meeting

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom.  Direct Zoom link for this book club meeting will be posted here a few days before 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 provi...
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The Story Luke Tells: A survey of Luke's Gospel led by Pr. Peter and Intern Pr. Katie

Via Zoom Tuesday mornings starting Sept. 14 at 6:00a  Via Zoom Wednesday mornings starting Sept. 15 at 10:00a   Beginning this Advent (Nov. 28), the cycle of readings for worship turns to the Gospel of Luke. Over the succeeding 52 Sundays and taken cumulatively, worshipers will hear nearly all of Luke's narrative through the Sun...
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Lutheran Disaster Response for Haiti - An opportunity to give

A devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck southwest Haiti on Saturday morning, August 18. Over 1,400 people were killed, and that number is expected to increase as search-and-rescue efforts continue. Blocked roads are delaying the delivery of vital supplies to hospitals, which are overwhelmed with more than 6,900 injured people. At least 26,000...
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Food on the 4th Sunday is August 22

Since its inception in 2010 over 90 tons of food and sundry items have been brought forward as part of the offerings on the fourth weekend of each month. A conservative estimate of the value of those goods based is $350,000 through 2021. The collections are delivered on an alternating month basis to the Lewis River Mobile Food Bank operated out of ...
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Return of Mask-Wearing to Messiah's Hazel Dell Campus

UPDATED 08.19.21 - In compliance with Governor Inslee's mask mandate for all indoor spaces in Washington State, mask-wearing will be required for all indoor meeting activities at the Hazel Dell campus, including worship, starting this Sunday, August 22. We continue to be a community that respects all members' and guests' needs. Thank you so much fo...
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Norma Moore retires from Stephen Ministry Leadership

Celebration of her joyful, faithful caring happens Sunday, July 18, Hazel Dell and Messiah North campuses   Stephen Ministry has been an important part of Norma's life for the past 27 years. The organization began in 1975 to help pastors care for the hurting people within their congregations and surrounding communities. Norma first heard ...
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Assistance with Memorial Services is needed

by Julie Bracken, Minister of Welcome Updated July 14, 2021: I am totally amazed at the outpouring of help. I thought it would be a problem filling the slots I had. As of this afternoon I only need helpers for the following:July 20 Harold Teters 2 people needed July 26 Carl Ahrens 1 person neededOther people who would like to help are invited ...
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Yoga with Karri returns to Tuesday Evenings

Messiah Yoga with Karri Bukant will return on Tuesdays from 5:00-6:00p, beginning August 3. The class will be a mix of gentle yoga and some more advanced options. Sessions will take place in the gym at the Hazel Dell campus. Participants should bring a yoga mat and water. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please ...
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No-experience-needed summertime Handbell Choir Opportunity

Charles Reinmuth, Director of Worship and Music, invites anyone reading this PSA to a summertime opportunity to learn and play handbells. Experience needed - nope. Age requirement - nope. Previous or current connection to the Messiah community - nope. Willingness to give it a try and to laugh at yourself - yup. Tuesday evenings at 6:00p, July 13 - ...
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Backpacking in the Wallowa Mountains set for July 23-28

Enjoy God's Beautiful Creation in the Wallowa Mountains. This year's six-day, high adventure trip will be backpacking to Paradise Basin. The dates of the trip are July 23-28. Participants must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and be able to hike with a backpack with 40-45lbs. of gear. This will include some group gear. ...
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Hotter than Here

The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, and they will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. - Mt.13:41-42I've had a lot of conversations about death, dying, and the afterlife lately. Chalk it up to the extraordinary number of...
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Messiah Hazel Dell will serve as a Pop-Up Cooling Station - Your help is needed.

Saturday, Sunday, and Monday - 2:00-7:00p  Messiah is opening its doors this weekend to people who may need to escape from the excessive heat. There will be air-conditioned space for people to sit, read, work on their laptops, and grab some water. Doors will be open Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 2:00-7:00p. Please enter thro...
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Jubilee Hosts 'Summer Hangs' at Latte Da Coffee House - next event is this Thursday, July 8

As part of its 'Summer Hangs' programming, Jubilee Collective is hosting a book study and discussion at Latte Da in downtown Vancouver, June 24th and again on July 8th, both from 4-6pm. Jubilee will buy you your first drink! Together participants will discuss the book 'All Out,' a collection of young adult fairy tales starring queer main characters...
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All Under One Roof - Combined Campus Worship, Sunday, June 27

One of Messiah's tag lines is "one congregation | multiple locations". The line works at so many levels and groupings of people. As coincidence would have it, two of Messiah's weekend worship groups won't be worshiping on June 26-27. Pr. Lenny suspended Jubilee Collective's in-person worship at the downtown Vancouver YWCA site during...
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Helen Winters-White announces her Retirement

Helen Winters-White, Messiah Lutheran Preschool founder and current Tots teacher, has announced that she will be retiring at the end of this school year. Mrs. White started Messiah Preschool in 1976, serving as both its director and lead teacher. She took about seven years off to pursue other interests, including serving as a member of Messiah's Pr...
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Endowment Committee Grant Process goes Digital. See "what gives."

An Overview   The Endowment Committee distributes funds earned on the invested principal of the Endowment Fund. The purpose is to "enhance and further the mission and ministries of Messiah Lutheran Church" (MLC Constitution). The Committee adheres to the rules and regulations of our church's Constitutional bylaws. Distributions are made e...
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Register here for the Bi-Annual Mtng. of the Congregation, Sunday, June 6, 2021, at 1:00p.

To register, please click here »  Download the Bulletin of Reports, here » On the Agenda: approval of an Operating Budget for fiscal 2021-22, year-end ministry reports from staff members, and all sorts of happiness. :) Thank you for making plans to attend this twice-a-year Meeting of the Congregation. Once registered, Office Administ...
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Changes in COVID Requirements for Worship

UPDATED 06.10.21 - Great news. Starting this Sunday, June 13, there will be no restrictions on where people can sit in the Hazel Dell sanctuary. You may choose a seat that fits your comfort level.On the horizon, we anticipate that the mask mandate for worshipers and church groups will end with Governor Inslee's plan for full re-opening on July...
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Thursday Morning Community Group is forming for new Summer Cycle

Weekly, beginning June 10.  Thursday mornings at 10:00a.  Studying Practicing the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence - contact Julie Bracken to learn more. What is a community group?It is a group of 8 people who will gather initially via Zoom and, when restrictions lift, in homes to know and care for one ano...
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Digital Media Coordinator Position Job Posting

Messiah Lutheran Church seeks a part-time (10 hrs./week) Digital Media Coordinator to develop and execute digital communication and social media strategies in partnership with the church leadership to increase awareness of the church, enhance engagement, grow audience base, and promote content and programs of Messiah Lutheran Church. The Digital Me...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club reading "The Cold Millions" for June 2 meeting

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom Direct Zoom link for this book club 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 challe...
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Hazel Dell Campus worship time moves to 9:00a starting Sunday, May 16

With the reopening of in-person worship of Messiah's North Campus, the worship time for the Hazel Dell (HD) campus will change to 9:00a starting Sunday, May 16. This change will be for both in-person and live-stream worship at the HD campus. The move to an earlier start time at HD will allow staff members to cover services each weekend at both loca...
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Messiah North will Reopen on May 16

Hazel Dell Campus Service time will move to 9:00a  by Julie Backous, Messiah North Site Coordinator   Hello Messiah North family ... and all of Messiah congregation! I have waited so long for this day! Who knew that it would be a year before we would be able to meet again! But finally, here we are. MESSIAH NORTH WILL BEGIN WORSH...
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Meet Katie Hendrikson, Messiah's Pastoral Intern for 2021-22 from Luther Seminary

Katie's will be a culminating internship, which means she will be a candidate for a Call to serve a congregation immediately after her internship year.    Greetings from the Midwest! I am so excited to embark on a new adventure to the Pacific Northwest and spend the year with your congregation!I am a born and...
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Update for making Prayer Requests

At Messiah, we believe that prayer is a powerful spiritual means to communicate with God. It is a privilege and comfort to receive prayer requests from members and friends of Messiah. To ensure that we handle prayer requests in a sensitive and caring way, Messiah offers four options for requests: Prayers directed only to the pastoral team ...
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Christ Bearers Ministry to Resume

After a year hiatus due to Covid, Christ Bearers will again bring Holy Communion to Messiah's homebound members following worship on Sundays. After pastors have blessed the bread and wine on the altar, volunteers go to the homes of shut-ins and offer a brief service of Holy Communion. The extension of the Meal is deeply meaningful for both the Chri...
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New Developments to In-Person Worship: No Sign-Up required + Masked Singing allowed

It has been such a joy to experience the return of in-person worship at Messiah's Hazel Dell the past three weeks! Thank you for observing the COVID rubrics and hanging in there with us as we try to make it as seamless as possible.   No More ReservationsThis week, and moving forward, we will experiment with no longer using the sign-up res...
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Pr. Kathy's Book Club discussing "The Midnight Library" this Wednesday, May 5

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom Direct Zoom link for this book club 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 challe...
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Materiality as Resistance – A new study facilitated by Intern Pr. Maggie and Pr. Peter. Not too late to check it out. Only in its second week.

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. | a reading/class schedule is below Intern Pr. Maggie and Pr. Peter invite you to join them in reading and discussing the latest book by distinguished North American theologian Dr. Walter Brueggemann titled "Materiality as Resistance." Commentators ha...
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Holy Week at Messiah 2021

04.01.21 - Maundy Thursday 6:00p Livestream Worship Service »  04.02.21 - Good Friday 10:00a In-Person Worship Service - reserved seating required - reservation form »10:00a Livestream Worship Service »6:00p Online Worship Service » 04.04.21 - Easter Sunday6:30a Outdoor In-Person Sunrise Service behind Eisenhower Elementary School - ...
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Thanks to Compassionate Callers

by Julie Bracken, Compassion Caller Coordinator.  For the last year, over 40 members of Messiah have been involved in the Compassionate Caller ministry. These caring individuals have each called ten households regularly to keep the connections to Messiah strong. The callers asked for prayer requests and made sure that the households' physical ...
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Easter thoughts from Pr. Peter

04.04.21  6:30a Outdoor In-Person Sunrise Service behind Eisenhower Elementary School - no reservation needed read more » 10:00a In-Person Worship Service in the Hazel Dell campus sanctuary: online reservation form »10:00a Livestream Worship Service » Holy Week and Easter are better experienced than explained. Kathy and I always...
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Good Friday Observance at Messiah. Why is it 'good'?

On 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 invites you to observe Good Friday worship at Messiah. There are three opportunities. In-person worship at 10:00a at the Hazel Dell campus sanctuary. Seating is by reservation only.Click here to get the ...
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New Contemplative Prayer Practice Group w/Pr. Kathy and Intern Pr. Maggie starts April 6

One of the groups forming in the new spring cycle of community groups will be led by Pastor Kathy and Intern Pastor Maggie using "Contemplative prayer practices. The group will meet initially via Zoom on Tuesdays at 1:00p starting April 6 The practices will help participants listen with the ears of their hearts to...
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In-Person worship reservations now open for all April weekends + comments from worshipers

UPDATE ON 04.04.21  Reservations are now open for all in-person services at the Hazel Dell campus through the end of April. Online reservation form, click here » UPDATE ON 04.01.21from Palm Sunday worshipers: I was emotionally moved just to be back in our church setting. I felt very safe and very grateful to be there. - Nancy The Mes...
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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 discuss "The Water Dancer," Wednesday, April 7

First Wednesday of each month | 10:00-11:30am via Zoom   Click here for the 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 conversati...
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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 conversation based on a reading of “Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher to the Whitest Denomination in the U.S.” Bonus session with the author!

Not too late to check it out! | 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   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 lo...
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"Shining Through: Snapshots of Grace" - Lenten midweek service message series

Links to "Shining Through—Snapshots of Grace"All services on Wednesdays at 6:00p February 24 - featuring Kathy Hoffman » March 3 - featuring Sheri Backous » March 10 - featuring Julie Johnson » March 17 - featuring Lynette Tracy » March 24 - featuring Carlyann Reinmuth » As part of your Lenten season discipline for 2021, Prs. Kathy and Peter invite...
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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 Tuesdays

Intern Pr. Maggie invites you to be her guest for a weekly reflective walk. Get out in creation, listen, and enjoy God's presence. Walks are on Tuesdays 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 after the ...
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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 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 launching the second cycle of community groups that will last for approximately eight weeks. 2nd & 4th Monday Night Group7:00pbegins March 22Studying the Bible passages (lectionary readings) for the upcoming Sunday - contact Julie...
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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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