Newsletter October 10th, 2025

Hello friends,

Since May, a friend and I have gathered at my house most Wednesdays to paint. We use an online acrylic painting lesson; we take turns providing lunch and often laugh as we work our way through whatever lesson was chosen for the week. Some of the paintings that I share in this newsletter were painted on these Wednesday afternoons. The photo I am sharing was taken upon completion of a lesson. I loved how much space each of us needed! Or, one could say we are a bit messy.

This week I had the pleasure to take Holy Communion to the home of some dear members. This is one of my favorite things to do as a pastor. And yet, since Covid, the opportunities for home visits occur less often. I think this is mostly because we each have the ability to worship online and thus receive the gift of Holy Communion in the context of worship. I am thankful that a visit happened this week.

The connection of these two memories is that it is wonderful when we can gather with friends and loved ones. Gathering for worship is also a great opportunity. While I am not here with you all each Sunday, I treasure our time together. You are all a wonderful group of people, and I look forward to seeing how God will continue to lead you into the future.

The difficult news for me to share with you, is that my time is coming to an end at American Lutheran Church. My final Sunday will be November 23^rd.

In my time as interim pastor you have done so much good work. I know that you are better prepared to live into your mission of following Jesus’ actions to be a shepherding force by accepting, embracing, and nurturing all of creation. Again, I look forward to seeing all that you will do! I know that it is time for me to go.

So why is if difficult? Because you are a wonderful group of people. I will miss each of you.

I don’t have news yet of what will happen at ALC after I leave. I can only share that your Church Council is working on an idea that I hope will come to fruition. I wish I could say more about this, but we are not ready to share plans. In any case, I want to assure you all that your ministry will continue. Your work in the neighborhood is important!

I will be at ALC next on October 19 and I hope to see you all that Sunday. My remaining Sundays will be October 19 & 26 and November 2 & 23.

As always, I would love to hear from you. So please feel free to contact me if you have any comments, questions, or just want to talk.

Peace in Christ,

Pastor Nancy