Welcome Wagenfuhr Family!
Welcome to Grace, Wagenfuhr Family!
When beginning a long journey, it always starts with... the first step. We on the PNC (Pastor Nominating Committee) gratefully acknowledge God’s hand in bringing the Wagenfuhr family to us, providing us with opportunity and precious little time to tell the story of who we are, how we live together with God as our binding peace, and what we hope for in our future.
Each of us has a part in this story, and every part is important and consequential. I believe this to be very true, and very much where we start with our introductions. We understand from the references that collectively termed Dr Wagenfuhr as a ‘stayer’ that he perseveres and collaborates to solutions that God provides. We feel his ability to consider multiple perspectives draws diversity into his walk of faith.
Gregory and his charming wife Ainoah, are the proud and doting parents of two very precocious and darling little girls. Watching how Gregory tended to their concerns and needs, even as we interviewed him throughout a two-anda-half-hour dinner, left no doubt in our minds that this good shepherd for his family would be exactly what we needed for our larger, equally precocious, congregation. Even more importantly, having the very real evidence of how Gregory and Ainoah work together in such a demanding and challenging environment allowed us to see both the effort and the balance that they provided each other, first and foremost.
Genuine and sincere! But not in the way of broad, entertaining banter - rather in the sure, calm, comforting echo of our Father’s voice through the Holy Spirit. There is a metronome of striving, a pulse of work that we require our leaders to emanate, so that we may follow them with the confidence that something (good) will be done. We have a great deal to learn yet about Gregory and his family, as much as they do with us. We plan on a gradual introduction through a number of small dinners throughout the year. However, we can be assured that the depth that the Holy Spirit has plumbed within their hearts surely will benefit each of us in the way that God has planned it.
We of the PNC are so very happy to present you with the Wagenfuhr family.
Please do take a moment to sign up for a small dinner with the Wagenfuhrs - details will be forthcoming from the PDC (Pastoral Dinner Committee). Each Gathering will be limited to 8 or so church members along with his family. We also are looking for volunteers to assist with their moving on August 15th.
Blessings on everyone, hope and joy is our heart’s desire! Let the Wagenfuhrs taste and see our love for them!
– Todd Lincoln, PNC Chair
Ambassadors of Christ
Thank you to all those who made our welcome to Yakima warm and inviting. Members of the Pastoral Nominating Committee went above and beyond to make sure we have been received with care and enthusiasm. I’m excited to dive into the life of ministry here at Grace of Christ, because I’m excited for what is possible here… not in the building or in the institution itself, but among the people.
In all my years of studying and writing about theology one of the things I feel like I’ve rediscovered in the Bible is the centrality of the people of God to his mission. We often think about Christianity as a message of what God has and can do for us and our response in worship. And while this is certainly true, the Bible is quite clear from beginning to end that God’s plan is to raise up coworkers. What God does for us he wants us to pass on to others as we are shaped and formed to be more like him.
So, I like to define the church as “The people of God, on the mission of God, becoming the image of God in Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit.” There’s a lot here to unpack, but it really gets to the heart of where the story of God in the Bible meets the work of his people. In 2 Corinthians 5-6 Paul outlines how we are ambassadors of Christ as we preach the good news that God is reconciling all things to himself. In 6:1 he says that we are coworkers with God. God hasn’t established a people to receive gifts but has come to empower his people to join the work he himself is doing. Why? God wants to form and shape us into a Jesus-shaped form of maturity. Paul says in Romans 8:29 that God chose us to be conformed to the image of the Son, that we would bear his image through being formed like him, so that Jesus would be the first of a huge family who are representing the kingdom of God to the world.
God wants us to be a people who form one another by speaking the truth in love so that we all “grow up in every way” into Jesus’ own image (Eph 4:15). At the heart, then, the church is quite a simple idea. God is forming a people through love, the kind of love he showed us, by practicing this love with one another and sharing it with the world. For Paul and for Jesus, the church was envisioned as a true community in which everyone plays their roles in a common project of making an embodied appeal to the world
to be reconciled to God as we ourselves demonstrate this reconciliation with one another.
For as simple as this sounds, the reality is, everything we learn from the shape of the world, from politics, economics, sports, beauty, and identity, is that we find our true meaning by joining coalitions of like-minded people to do battle with the “others”. We have to fight to win. Our side is the right one, and they’re the wrong ones. The world’s works by a divide and conquer logic. It tells us we need to imitate success, to follow trends, to make a name for ourselves by influencing others. The world does not work by the ministry of reconciliation, and it doesn’t understand its logic.
Yet, the people of God thrive in the mix of different people coming together to be reconciled in Jesus. The good news of God is embodied in a real people who live by a different logic with one another and reach out to the world; all of this empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The church is God’s plan for working together to reconcile all things to himself. I can’t wait to see how you all embody this message too!
In Christ, Rev. Dr. Gregory Wagenfuhr
FALL KICKOFF SUNDAY | SEPTEMBER 14 | NORTH LAWN
September 14th is Fall Kickoff at Grace of Christ. Join us on the North Lawn between services for shaved ice, music, face painting, and games!
Thank You Curt & Kathaleen!
THANK YOU MCFARLAND FAMILY!
Curt and Kathaleen began their connection to First Presbyterian Church with their ministry at Camp Ghormley in 1996. Curt was their Director for 10 years, raising their children Rosie and Tyler in the incredibly beautiful setting. Their family created a lasting imprint on the Camp just as the campers, staff, and beautiful grounds left a life-long imprint on the McFarland family. He joined the pastoral staff at First Pres in 2006 and back again in 2021.
Curt’s gift for leadership matched with his and Kathaleen’s gifts for hospitality, have blessed our church, our families, and our staff beyond measure. They have given generously of their time and talents as they have served the Lord and our community. We thank God for Curt and Kathaleen!
An Open Love Letter to Curt & Kathaleen…
“We thank our God every time we remember you. In all our prayers for both of you, we always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right for us to feel this way about both of you, since we have you in our hearts” – Philippians 1:3-11 NIV (personalized modifications)
I am grateful for friendships of longevity. The ones that weave in and out of life’s journey over long spans of years, distances, togetherness, and separations. There is a history of commonality as well as refreshed perspective and insights along the way. I feel it gives me a bit of a sneak peek view of heaven, a reference point to help me grasp a notion of eternity.
Grace of Christ Church has had the privilege and delight of such a friendship with Curt and Kathaleen McFarland! First through our association with Camp Ghormley decades ago
where they served ministering to our children and facilitating men and women’s retreats with Curt in the role of camp director and Kathaleen often serving as program director.
Then, they came and served here at the church as Curt took a leadership role as an associate pastor and then interim pastor. And now again in these past several years Curt has been our head pastor. Through it all, it was a team effort with Kathaleen always supporting and contributing her own gifts and talents to wherever Curt was called to serve. It has always been a two-for-one deal! We have been immensely blessed by this dynamic duo! Distinctly different individuals from each other, they have teamed together in such a way to demonstrate unity in Christ Jesus and mutual love and support.
There are not words enough to recount the blessing these two have been to countless numbers of people both in our church family and in the communities where they have lived. We have been incredibly blessed by Curt’s gifts of preaching and teaching, compassionate mercies, discernment, leadership, skill in affirming and equipping of others, and his sense of humor.
Kathaleen, a woman of countless talents, is so very generous in hospitality, compassion, support, and encouragement (did I mention FUN and wackiness?!). She is ever-tirelessly working behind the scenes to facilitate a warm welcome to others. I am guessing most of us are clueless to the many acts of kindness and care these two have silently done behind the scenes out of the limelight. Their humility, generosity, compassion quietly done in obedience to Christ and in His love for others. It is indeed easy to give thanks to the LORD in every remembrance of them.
It is hard to say goodbye, but I am learning with these two fellow sojourners, it’s never goodbye, but “see you around the next bend in the road.”
Thank You Curt & Kathaleen!
Curt and Kathaleen, “and this is our prayer for you: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ — to the glory and praise of God.”
On behalf of your very grateful church family, Linda Sorenson
Pastor Curt,
Serving with you in ministry these past few years here at Grace of Christ has been a privilege. Your steady dedication to God’s Word and your heart for reaching others have been a beacon of light to so many, including me. “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Actually, our ministries have crossed paths a few times beginning 20 years or so ago. You helped me early on when I was starting out in ministry as the pastor at the Tieton Presbyterian Church. I’ll never forget when you attended an Easter Sunrise Service I did back then. I was so nervous when I saw you sitting out there.
I have enjoyed our time together doing the “chat with the pastors” on Sunday mornings here at Grace. We didn’t always agree on some theological points, somewhat to the surprise and delight of those attending, but we always spoke with honesty and respect and with the humility to listen to the perspective of others.
I will miss our Friday morning meetings where we not only went over the preaching schedule, and thoughts about our upcoming sermons, but we also shared experiences and perspectives on the state of the overall church in our nation - and of course theology. As you would review an upcoming sermon you were preparing, I was amazed at the depth of your knowledge of the Bible. And then you would ask me what I thought about your approach (me!) and if I had any suggestions!
And thank you for understanding the engineering side of me and allowing me to share God’s Word on Sunday mornings!
You have been a blessing as a colleague and as a friend. Thank you for both. As you embark on this next chapter (whatever God has for you), may you and Kathaleen have abundant blessings, peace, health, and joy.
God Bless, Dennis Whitcher
See You Later…
As is probably the case for many, my acquaintance with Curt and Kathaleen started at Camp Ghormley. I had participated in Men’s Retreats and then in work weekends with the whole family. In fact, those were the days when Ponderosa was Upper Lodge, and the Dining Hall was smaller than it is today. During those times, my relationship with Curt and Kathaleen continued to grow leading to the early ‘90’s when we shared dinner at camp in the house now known as Tamarack. During that time, as Rosie, Tyler, Jenny, Shaw, Ryan, and Noah played upstairs, the McFarlands shared stories of their time in the British Isles, and we discussed our shared interests in C.S. Lewis as well as Monty Python’s Flying Circus.
Then we talked about what became in essence, a job interview for me as Program Director. And Laura as Sundeck manager as well as other tasks. During that time, I was parttime night custodian at the church, in addition to my primary employment at Lay & Nord auto parts. Laura was on staff at the church in childcare, as well as a printer assistant to Frank Ernst and John Mitchell. Sadly, employment at camp wasn’t meant to be since there was not sufficient housing for our family of 6.
In the following years, through many dark times, Curt has stood as a North Star for me, keeping me grounded in so many ways, and helping me to grow deeper in my relationship to God and Jesus. Both he and Kathaleen will always hold a special place in my heart as very steadfast friends. While, as when they left for Moses Lake, this will not be goodbye only see you later, it will still leave a large void in my life, as I am sure it will for many. – John Yolo
WELL DONE, DR. JON WAITE!
It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we honor Dr. Jon Waite for his remarkable service as organist at Grace of Christ. After nearly 49 years of faithful music ministry, Jon has retired from his role, though his impact will be held in the hearts of our congregation and community for years to come.
Since I began working alongside Jon in 2019 as leader of traditional worship, I have come to deeply respect his extraordinary musical gifts and unwavering commitment to the church. His mastery of the organ is not just technical brilliance, but is an act of worship. Whether through a soaring prelude, a quietly reverent hymn, or a triumphant postlude, Jon’s music carried the spirit of each service, lifting hearts and focusing minds on the presence of God.
Jon’s taste in music is both refined and joyful, reflecting his love for classical tradition as well as his keen sense of beauty and appropriateness. He brought elegance and energy to every piece, and his thoughtful selections enriched the spiritual experience of our congregation week after week. Beyond his playing, his style (musical and personal) has always embodied grace, humility, and professionalism.
More than anything, Jon has modeled what it means to serve with faith. His decades of steady presence at the organ bench, his quiet leadership, and his love for the church have been a testimony to what it means to use one’s gifts for God’s glory. He has not only been an accompanist to our songs, but a true partner in worship.
Though he has retired from the bench, Jon remains a vital part of our music family. We are so thankful for his legacy,
his friendship, and his faithful service. Please join me in celebrating this extraordinary man who has given so much of himself to Grace of Christ and to the ministry of sacred music.
With deep respect, Jason Wickson
Early Beginnings...
For Jon, his introduction to playing instruments began in 1950 playing the trumpet in grade school. He later moved to baritone horn in the school band and came back to the trumpet – first chair!
It was that time that he fell in love with the sound of the piano and being able to play the harmony along with the melody. He studied Piano at Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio where he was introduced to the organ and began taking lessons.
He played regularly for a local Methodist church while also playing first chair trumpet for the Heidelberg Orchestra. He received his Master’s degree in Music Theory in 1969. He received his Doctorate in Organ Performance at the University of Oregon.
In October of 1986 Jon became the organist at First Presbyterian Church. He has dedicated 38 and a half years, including 38 Carols and Candle Christmas Eve Services, as our faithful, esteemed organist. We are eternally grateful to you, Jon!
A Gift from God...
In 1971, Andrea Crouch penned a song, “My Tribute.” The lyrics were written as a tribute to God. However, the first line of words always resonate in my head when I think of Jon Waite: “How can I say thanks for the things you have done for me?” Then I feel a smile coming on.
Any church organist is hard to find. However, a devoted church organist is a gift from God. One that has served for almost four decades rewrites the definition of “devoted.” Jon is retiring after nearly 40 years of service at Grace.
He often points to the resultant indentations on the ivory keys and quips that his DNA is now embedded inside them. However, what he may not realize is that we, as a cong gation, also have been imprinted with Jon’s gift. He has brought God-honoring, classical and inspirational music to our lives. Through his music, our emotions, even our souls, are inspired. For many of us, worshiping at Grace means anticipating the preludes, introits, hymns, anthems, and postludes that fill each service. Jon’s skills have elegantly elevated the worship services and created a sense of awe and reverence.
Jon Waite 1988
A church organist is one of those rare folks who have an incredible influence upon a church, always instrumental in the front and center of the worship, enhancing every soloist’s offering, enabling a choir to voice incredible praises, giving empathy at a funeral, trumpeting the arrival of a bride, or setting the mood and extending the time for communions.
The organ plays on because of the organist’s ability to accommodate, modify and adapt, which is the result of years of training, hours and hours of practice, a love of music, and ultimately, their devotion to God. Jon’s been doing that expertly for us for 40 years, and I am so grateful that his gift to God has also affected my life. Thank you, dear friend, from all of us. We so appreciate you, your gift and your passion.
– Roz and John Strang
JON’S RETIREMENT CELEBRATION
SUNDAY | OCT 26 | 11AM | SANCUATRY
& GARDEN RM
Join us as we celebrate Jon’s many years of faithful music and ministry at Grace of Christ Church the morning of Sunday, October 26th during the 11am service and afterwards in the Garden Room.
THANK YOU, JON!
For over 38 years you have shared your extraordinary musical gift with our congregation, offering not just music but a ministry. Your dedication and faithful service as our organist have touched countless lives, enriching our worship and deepening our spiritual connection through every note. You made those pipes sing, but beyond that we soared to amazing heights during worship through the power of the Holy Spirit that was present though your music. You are truly a blessing to me and our church family.
I remember when singing with you at a memorial service, as the family was being ushered out you began playing, A Mighty Fortress is our God, but instead of ending where the hymn ends you continued to play. I just sat there totally immersed in the music as you continued to embellish the hymn as you were led. I looked over to see if you had a musical score but there on the organ was a simple page from the hymnal, no scores of music. That was you, using your gifts to soar us to amazing musical heights through the presence of the Holy Spirit. The experience was so powerful and uplifting it was truly a blessing. This is only one example of the many times I and our congregation have experienced glorious worship through your sharing of your musical gift with us. So glad God placed you here!
Jon, your music has truly lifted hearts and deepened worship in unforgettable ways. We are deeply grateful for the lasting impact of your musical gifts and the legacy you leave behind in the life of our church. You are truly a blessing from God! Thank you for the past 38 years of glorious worship through your sharing of the musical gift God gave you. We have been blessed beyond measure. With heartfelt appreciation and forever grateful.
– Karen Bernd
Family & Children’s Ministry
— Sarah Huck Family & Children's
Ministry
Director
Greetings Grace Family,
There has been an unusual occurrence in my home on these summer mornings. Instead of the kids waking up at 6:30 AM eager to talk over the days’ plans, placing their breakfast orders, and fighting over who gets to watch what’s on the TV, there is a hush.
It is unreal. Unnatural. And, if you know my family, completely unbelievable. Not only are all my children sleeping in—and I mean way in— but when they wake up, they don’t talk. They don’t ask for anything, they don’t fight, they don’t make a sound. It is like everyone is subconsciously playing the quiet game and no one wants to be the loser.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
Sure, eventually they get up. Ella grabs her iPad and Si goes to the couch and stares out the window looking for planes in the sky. River saunters down the stairs and grabs a bottle of water from the fridge, and I make coffee as quietly as possible, nervous that somehow if I shut the cupboard too loudly or run the faucet too high, the sound could disrupt this supernatural happening of quiet.
James 1:17
It has been a gift. Although we never discuss it as a family, somehow we are all aware of how precious this quiet is. From my room I see Ella peek over her iPad as she watches Siget off the couch to grab a blanket. I imagine her wondering if he will be the one to say something and lose the game—the game that none of us started yet somehow are all playing.
I have realized during these hours of quiet, lasting sometimes until almost lunchtime, how healing the absence of sound is. “God, what is this quiet?” I asked. He showed me a picture of a hyperbaric chamber. Now, I have never seen a hyperbaric chamber, so I am not sure how I knew what one was, but I did. And then, of course, when God shows me something I don’t understand I do what I always do. I Googled it!
According to Google, a hyperbaric chamber is a sealed-pressurized enclosure used in hyperbaric oxygen therapy. It delivers 100% oxygen at higher- than-normal atmospheric pressure to enhance the body’s ability to heal and fight infection. Wow. God is using the quiet to heal my family.
I tend to title seasons in my life. There was the Yaki-Soba Season where I ate nothing but Yaki-Soba pretty much every day, all day; the Skinny Jean Season where I only wore skinny jeans; the Sleepless Night Season when I had babies; and this summer is the Quiet Season. The Quiet Season, the summer where God used a hyperbaric chamber of quiet to heal my family from trauma and anxiety.
What is God doing in your home this summer? What gift has He given you and your family? I can assure you—He has not taken the summer off.
Family Ministry Pool Parties
Kara Brown Student Ministry Director
Jahzeel Garcia Student Ministry Assistant
Student Ministry
STRENGTH & ENCOURAGEMENT IN COMMUNITY
During the summertime, things always seem to slow down. It is comforting to have people around you who can encourage you to get out of the house and help you not feel like you’re falling behind. Kids are home from school, and when they aren’t on vacation or at camp, they are most likely just at home maybe doing chores, binge-watching their way through Netflix, doom-scrolling on TikTok, or through Instagram reels. They are just waiting for something to do. One of our students said they can’t wait for Wednesdays, to have something to do and an excuse to get out of the house. Coming together for Wednesday swim parties this summer has been such a blessing to our students and our volunteers. We started the summer with middle school and high school swimming at different times. As the summer progressed, we decided to combine the groups which allowed for more time to swim and more time to all be together. Our commu-
nity is important, and it has been a constant practice for our student leadership to continue building our community, strengthening the bond. One of the results has been a comfortable camaraderie with one another. Especially in a time when things have felt so uncertain and divided.
With uncertain times, our youth can feel scared and alone. We are social creatures, needing to be a part of something. If we can’t find that, it is common to drop things that are true to ourselves to fit it. This mindset is not new; the need to fit in has always been a thing. The people you surround yourself with must think just as you do. Which is why we started to have High School Tuesday Nights.
“...that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” – Romans 1:12. Having people with the same belief makes things easier. You won’t have to perform just to fit in because that can get exhausting.
The middle schoolers are also focusing on: “For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”
– Romans 12:4-5.
They are learning that we are all a part of what we call “the body of Christ.” We are all different and bring something to the table. Even the smallest thing can be useful; To us it may seem insignificant, but God can put it to good use.
As we enter the next season, we excitedly welcome incoming ninth graders to High School, the incoming sixth graders to Middle School, and the new interns to our Youth Program! Please pray for us as we continue to build a comfortable and safe community for new and returning students. Pray that we can make them feel important and a part of the body of Christ, whether it is during an outing, such as the Fair or Corn Maze, or a regularly scheduled Wednesday or Sunday. We need your prayers.
Parents, remember to keep an eye out for the monthly newsletter for event dates or on our Instagram Yakima_grace_youth.
Grace School of Ministry and Leadership
NEW INTERNS!
The Student Ministries program has recruited five new Interns to work with the youth group. Kara Brown, our Director of Student Ministries, has combined with Larissa Belknap and Don Stuber to find a group of motivated and deep young adults to go through the School of Ministry and Leadership. The five new Interns are:
Jasmine Barriga
Belen Damian-Vazquez
Jolene Hilton
Diego Jimenez
Eli Westfall
In addition, both Alex Moran and Linda Camarillo will be back for their 3rd fall semester.
Belén is a member of our church and has graduated from our youth group. She and Eli both have started school remotely at Northwest University in Kirkland. Belén is an entrepreneur and has started a business with her mother. Eli was home-schooled and graduated in 2021. He has his AA from running start and will earn a BA in Business at Northwest. He has experience with sound and technology for worship.
Diego, Jolene, and Jasmine have found their faith through the ministry of the Madison House. They will be splitting time between their mission at MH and with our students on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. Our own Gerardo Mendoza has been vital in their faith maturity and in enrolling them in our program.
The School for Ministry and Leadership (SML) meets each Tuesday from 11am to 12:30pm. Larissa conscripts the valley’s best Christian teachers to instruct the Interns on various tools for ministry: listening, asking good questions, the basics of Reformation Theology, keeping yourself healthy physically and mentally and spiritually, and many other important topics.
PRAY FOR OUR INTERNS
This will be the first year that other churches will be sending their interns to our School for Ministry and Leadership. Selah Covenant is the first to respond to this invitation. We pray there will be others.
Mission Ministry
GROWING COMMUNITY BY EXTENDING OUR IMPACT
“We can’t fix the whole world, but we can do what we can where we are and, hopefully, teach others to impact a wider area.”
– Dr. Tim Teusink, Project Mercy Board Member
Project Mercy is indeed deepening and widening its reach by focusing upon five areas of impact: education, health, nutrition, economic empowerment and infrastructure that, when combined, act as a catalyst to create thriving communities. And, Project Mercy is sharing its unique and successful model worldwide.
“Collaborations between Project Mercy and institutions like UCLA and Stanford allow those who are not necessarily ministry-minded (yet!) to use their gifts and talents to serve a large and growing number of people across the world,” states Dr Michael Van Noord, Project Mercy Board Chairman and general surgeon specialist in Vallejo, CA (Kaiser Permanente Vallejo Medical Center), and active Bay Area Medical Mission team member, who has been instrumental in the creation and inception of this undertaking.
Graduate students from these top-notch universities are signing up to study Project Mercy’s Integrated Holistic Community model – across all programs – that strengthens the trust and collaboration with the community elders and local government. According to Van Noord, the prestigious UCLA Anderson School of Management that is known for its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, which emphasiz-
Areas of impact: (1) Health (left to right)
Dr. Michael Van Noord, Project Mercy Board Chairman Bruce Bacon, Project Mercy Board Member (past) and Grace of Christ member
Sister Meseret, Project Mercy’s Glenn C Olson Memorial Hospital Head Nurse
Find Your Mission. Find Your Passion.
Five areas of impact: (2) Economic Empowerment
es early specialization and the generation of hands-on experience is offering the opportunity for its students to take coursework which delves into this holistically integrated model. Project Mercy’s Integrated Holistic Community model has been developed into a curriculum that has been codified by Bete Demeke, President and Board Vice-Chairman of Project Mercy. Demeke also augments the students’ education through personally guest lecturing – both in-person and by Zoom – and by garnering opportunities for students to expand their knowledge through research and first-hand learning at the Project Mercy compound in Yetebon, Ethiopia, and other parts of Africa such as Kibera, a division and neighborhood of Nairobi that is known as the largest urban slum in all of Africa.
As part of their studies, Anderson School of Management graduate students are setting foot in Africa to visit Project Mercy and SHOFCO in Nairobi to learn new ways to maximize social impact and create improved access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities – drawing directly from Project Mercy’s model.
Areas of impact: (3) Education
Mission Ministry
SHOFCO, known also as Shining Hope for Communities, is taking a look at how Project Mercy addresses the complex problems and challenges of rural communities via the Anderson School of Management graduate students and professors. SHOFCO (awarded the 2018 Conrad N Hilton Humanitarian Prize, the world’s largest humanitarian award) has significantly benefited from its collaboration with Project Mercy and the UCLA Anderson School of Management.
Moreover, a partnership with Stanford University affords graduate students the opportunity to expand their studies through life-changing interaction with Project Mercy, including an annual lecture. In accordance with Demeke, one of their students is working on a soon to be published peer review paper, the fourth paper to be published thus far.
with psychological distress. This study was vital because it demonstrated that even though culturally, Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders are not acknowledged, the study verifies that mothers are indeed suffering. Bringing this to light, has saved untold lives.
These are just a few examples of how Project Mercy’s well-practiced approach is being studied and executed near and far, living out their mission to serve as a living example of Jesus Christ by transforming lives and empowering rural communities.
– Rosanne Bacon
Demeke Tekle-Wold, co-founder of Project Mercy passed away on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at age 93.
Although this gentle, wise and faithful man will be greatly missed, and it is sad to not have him upon the earth, there is great joy in heaven.
Of particular note is one of the Stanford graduate student’s groundbreaking paper on Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) that was carried out under the guidance of Project Mercy. This study evaluated some of the common mental health disorders that affect newly postpartum women and the stigma attached in reporting these disorders in an Ethiopian community (Yetebon). The survey, using a validated World Health Organization survey, was performed at Project Mercy’s Glenn C Olsen Memorial Hospital with Head Nurse Sister Meseret assisting with the implementation. Surveys were administered in Amharic, the mothers’ native language. The presence of stigma associated with these disorders makes it especially difficult to address within the Ethiopian culture as it carries the message to these new mothers that they must be “strong” and “never cry”, adversely affecting the ability to seek help and to identify women
Five areas of impact: (5) Infrastructure
“Deme and Marta built Project Mercy not as an organization, but as a response to God’s calling, states Lucy Roller, Project Mercy Office Manager. “Together, they poured their lives into helping others, brick by brick, prayer by prayer. Many of you were part of this story—helping shape the vision, overcome the challenges, and witness the miracles that unfolded along the way. Deme’s legacy belongs to all of us.”
Established in 2023, The Marta Gabre-Tsadick and Demeke Telke-Wold Foundation—also known as The Marta and Deme Foundation—is one way you can honor our dear friend Deme and to ensure that this legacy in Yetebon and across Ethiopia continues. And now, and until the end of the year, any gift that you make to The Marta and Deme Foundation will be matched by an anonymous donor. Simply let the Project Mercy office know that you want your gift to double its impact by noting this on your contribution, whether by check or electronically.
According to Bete Demeke, Project Mercy President and CEO, The Foundation gives Project Mercy the flexibility to extend the legacy of Marta and Deme in Ethiopia (and beyond) as a granting organization with no restrictions by local/Regional Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) which govern the Central Ethiopia and Amhara Regions.
The intent for the Foundation is to:
• Grant scholarships to top university students in health and education (in Marta’s name) as well as math, science, and engineering (in Deme’s name)
• Support churches and/or other faith-based groups across Ethiopia (i.e. prayer groups)
Five areas of impact: (4) Nutrition
Mission Ministry
• Propagate and transmit our unique integrated and holistic approach to rural development in Ethiopia and beyond.
• Create a curriculum around Project Mercy’s “Integrated and Holistic Community-led Development” IHCD approach that Project Mercy aims to offer to universities in Ethiopia so that masters students in Development, Economics, Public Health, Education, and Sociology could get practical training on how to plan and execute development initiates.
For more information, or questions regarding The Marta and Deme Foundation, please contact Bruce Bacon, Project Mercy Foundation board member, 509-952-7571.
Pyriam’s Papyrus Bookmarks
Pictured to the right:
St. John’s Papyrus Fragment reproduced by courtesy of the University Librarian and Director, The John Rylands University Library, The University of Manchester.
• The word ‘paper’ comes from papyrus. Pronounced ‘pa PIE russ’
• Moses’ mother saved him by hiding him in a basket made of papyrus. Exodus 2
As in the time of the ancient pharaohs, papyrus paper is still 100% handmade in villages along the Nile River. The papyrus reed is cut into thin strips. The strips are soaked and laid out in two layers. After a series of presses, the papyrus paper is complete.
Most of the Bible was probably first written on papyrus paper. Papyrus was the standard paper long before Moses wrote Genesis (around 1500 B.C.) until long after the Apostle John wrote Revelation (around A.D. 95).
St. John’s Papyrus Fragment
Handmade Bookmarks Made from papyrus paper
Handcrafted in Egypt, Pyriam Original Papyrus Gifts employs the talents of artists and craftsmen to produce each handcrafted piece. Papyrus is made using the same 5000 year old method!
To learn more and support this ministry: www.pyriam.com
SACRED ROAD FIELD TRIP!
We had 22 people from Grace of Christ visit Sacred Road on Tuesday, June 10th. We took a brief tour of the building, enjoyed a light supper, watched the youth play games and then gather for a youth meeting. Here are some comments from those who attended:
“...they use their resources so efficiently.”
“...I like the concept of treating people like family.”
“...God is obviously blessing this work, as they are blessing their neighbors.”
“...a fantastic tour of Sacred Road. It is so impactful to actually see the ministry.”
“...I had no idea...”
“...I’m so glad I came!”
“...that’s a lot of firewood!”
Mission Ministry
FUND NAMES NEW RECIPIENTS
Thanks to the generosity of our donors to the Great Commission Fund (GCF), the Mission Team of Grace of Christ has been able to add to their list of recipients receiving a financial gift. These two very deserving servants of the Lord and latest GCF awardees include:
Ann Marie Hausler, Sacred Road Communications Worship Director and Jahzeel Garcia-Figueroa, Young Life Leader (Davis High School), who also serves as Grace of Christ’s Student Ministry Assistant. Additionally, Jahzeel helps lead Sunday morning worship and assists with Spanish translation. Collectively, some $10,000 in funds were given resulting in the largest awards to date.
The purpose of the Great Commission Fund is threefold: to produce young missionaries from the Yakima area, to fund Grace of Christ members to the mission field, and to support global missions. Nearly five years old, the GCF was established in November of 2020. This fund draws upon Grace of Christ’s rich history and legacy of supporting missionaries –both locally and globally – and has awarded some $45,000 since its inception. (Again, thank you, donors!)
As a safety net, the GCF functions under the um-
brella of Grace’s Foundation and uses the interest gained from the principal endowment fund to send and support missionaries, thereby continuing to grow the GCF exponentially and into millennia. So, in essence, the more we grow this fund, the more the Missions Team will be able to award. Moreover, you can help the GCF continue to grow and make an impact by considering a financial gift (whether small or large), naming the GCF in your estate planning, offering prayer, or by helping to let others know about this special endowment which is based on Matthew 28:19-20 entrusting us with the charge to GO MAKE DISCIPLES.
Reading Mentors Needed
READERS FOR ADAMS ELEMENTARY!
Every year at the beginning of the school year in August, we host a welcome barbecue dinner for the staff and families at Adams Elementary. This is just a part of our mission of hosting several events throughout the year, including our main focus of being reading mentors described below.
Our main connection over the years has been to help kids learn to read. We have come across students of all reading levels but concentrate on ones who are selected for extra work. However, just as important, or maybe even more important, is to build a relationship with the kids and listen to them, talk about whatever is on their mind and, very importantly, encourage them. This is why our team is much more than “Readers.” We often refer to them as Reading mentors. Volunteers are needed! For further information, please contact Jake Kupp.
– Thomas J. Oliva, Adams Coordinator
Rosanne (left) and Ann Marie Hausler, Sacred Road Communications/Worship Director (right)
Jahzeel Garcia-Figueroa, Young Life Leader at Davis High School, Student Ministry Assistant at Grace of Christ, Sunday Worship Team, and Spanish translation
ADAMS ELEMENTARY
Deacons
LOVED
APPRECIATED
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.
I Peter 4.8
A few years ago, when I still had my marketing consulting practice, I had a client that had a hunting dog ministry. He would breed, raise and train hunting dogs. He also would do guided hunting trips with the dogs. He explained to me that time in a hunting blind was a great opportunity to learn more about people, and when God provided an opening, share about his faith. He knew that I was a man of faith, and we had discussed our personal faith journeys on several occasions. During one of our meetings, he asked “So Dave tell me about how intentional you are about sharing the love of Christ.” I fumbled for an answer. I felt convicted, blindsided, but also challenged. I told him that I would have to get back to him. I was frustrated with myself in that moment. Despite being involved in ministry since I was a teenager, I was surprised that an answer to his question didn’t come easy, or even naturally. I have since discovered that put on the spot, that most of us that consider ourselves involved in ministry (including Pastors) might struggle with an answer that seems like it is ingrained as part of their daily walk.
Over the next several months, I prayed, and gave a lot of thought to how, on the regular I am intentional about sharing the love of Christ. One day God spoke these words to me “In case you haven’t heard it today or lately, remember that you are loved and appreciated.” At first, I didn’t understand or fully appreciate how this simple phrase could convey such a powerful message. Initially my thought was that people around me that were visibly having a rough time of it would benefit the most. I shared it and often got questioned about
the motivation on sharing love, without strings. This created a perfect chance to share that the motives were pure and came from a place of the familiar term taken from the Greek “agape” or most referred in its simplest form “unconditional love”. Jesus was often quoted as using this term in the context of not only the love that God has for his people, but also the love that we should have for one another. One place we see this is in 1 Peter 4:8.
After a short while I realized that this phrase had more potential than in just people that seemed to be needing some encouraging words. As it turns out, as I said it more, even among people that didn’t appear to need it in that moment, did need it, and responded in a positive way.
As a result of sharing this simple phrase, I’ve cried with Atheists, seen people come to Christ, and opened the door to conversations about the Love of Christ.
Among all of the people involved with my late girlfriend’s journey through her final days, I shared with them, and got hugs, tears and usually “we don’t hear that often enough,” or “I really needed that.” Those types of responses are among the most common that I get from many people I share it with.
Among friends, family, and people I regularly surround myself with, it gets shared on a very intentional basis. Apparently, in my absence at some of the meetings and gatherings at GPC, someone will say it, reinforcing how prevalent and important it has become.
I encourage, no, challenge you to examine yourself and see how you might answer the question about how intentional you are about sharing the love of Christ.
In case you haven’t heard it today or lately, remember that you are loved and appreciated.
– Dave Geho
Dave Geho, Deacon
Hospitality
— Linda Mathews
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
– Romans 12: 12-13
WELCOME CENTER
I have noticed a statement in our Sunday morning flyer, “We are so glad you are here! If you have any questions, please stop by the Welcome Center in the Garden Room.” I love seeing that. However, I am noticing more and more recently, that the Welcome Center is unmanned during and between some services. We are asking people to stop by and get their questions answered, but there is no one there to answer them. In addition, we tell visitors they can pick up a Gift Bag at the Welcome Center, and sometimes there is nobody there’s to give it to them.
Will you help us remedy this? As you have heard recently from Linda M., our need for volunteers is great. The sign-up sheets are changing, giving you more options over longer periods of time to sign up. The more people that sign up, the less frequently you will be asked to do so. We love seeing the smiling faces and laughter that come with the interactions at the counter. You are very much appreciated.
GREETERS
Greeting at the entrances into the building and the doors leading into the Sanctuary allow us to share a smile, a friendly “Good Morning!”, even a handshake or a hug. It is a great way to become more familiar with your church family and can lead to other interactions in other settings and even to friendships and support. We would like to see all entrances into the church covered for each service on Sunday mornings. We appreciate our greeters!
REFRESHMENTS
The Refreshment Team is going strong, but they can always use more volunteers. We don’t want to burn out those who
are there on a regular basis. Dave W. continues to be the team leader and would be happy to show others the ropes and share in the joy of serving in this “behind the scenes” way on Sunday mornings. Would you like to be a part of our Refreshment Team? Call Dave at: 509-945-371
BAPTISMS
Joann would like to give a big shout out of gratitude to Peggy Steere and the Deacons for their generous gift that will allow them to continue with their quilt making activities. The quilters need good, clean (used ok) white sheets. If you have any to contribute, bring them to the church office, with Joann’s name on them. Thank you!
USHERS
If you have any interest in becoming an usher, or learning more about what they do, please contact Donnie at 509-952-0238. He would be happy to discuss this with you.
NEW PASTOR
With the addition of a new pastor at Grace of Christ, we will likely notice differences in style and perhaps changes here and there. Not only will this relieve Pastor Curt and Kathaleen to do things they have been looking forward to (we will miss you!), it will find us adjusting to differences and getting to know Pastor Gregory and his family. I look forward to the possibilities! Will we find others moving to our church? Will youth membership increase? There are many things where time will tell. However it changes, the Hospitality Team will adjust accordingly. I would like to see our volunteers on board and ready to fill openings on our schedules. May you be blessed with a desire to be involved by volunteering your time in a way that helps others.
“Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
Grace of Christ Preschool
Each September we welcome back a handful of returning students. They are full of smiles and giggles when they see their friends and teachers again. They know what to expect. They’ve been here. They helped create this classroom.
Our other group of students is brand new... and everything is new to them! New adults, new kids, new toys, new routines, new expectations, new rules... new new new.
Some kids glide into preschool and settle in without a second thought. Some cry a little everyday for the first few days. Still others take their time to trust this newness as something good and beneficial to them. They are leery of
the new adults. They are unsure of where they fit. They don’t like the change.
I love watching these children express their feelings with such honesty. They don’t try to hide their displeasure, excitement, or sadness. You don’t have to second-guess what they’re experiencing – it is written on their faces and comes pouring out of their hearts.
It’s also a joy to see the teachers, children, and other parents join together to ease these uneasy changes. In this season of change (whatever that change is for you and your family), I pray we can all be as honest and vulnerable as our preschool students. You may be surprised to find how light your load becomes by sharing it with those around you.
Camp Ghormley
SUMMER 2025
This summer went very smoothly! Our staff team worked really hard and made camp an awesome experience. His goodness and love was made known to our campers through our speakers and staff. We welcomed 383 campers this summer and we pray that God continues to impact them beyond Camp Ghormley.
MOTHER - DAUGHTER & FATHER - SON RETREAT WEEKEND OCT 3-5
Register Now: CampGhormley.com
MOTHER-DAUGHTER & FATHER-SON FALL RETREAT WEEKEND!
FRIDAY - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3-5, 2025
Camp Ghormley’s Annual Mother-Daughter Retreat is combining with our Father-Son Retreat! Join us October 3rd through the 5th. This weekend is for your family if they love Camp Ghormley and want to take an intentional weekend to grow closer together and closer to God.
But this weekend is not just for families. The Father-Son retreat will have their own speaker and camp activities while the Mother-Daughter retreat will have their own speaker and their own fun and wonderful activities. Whether it’s just you and your daughter or your whole family, there will be something for you!
Families will have the chance to connect over meals and, of course, stay in one of our many cabins.
JOIN US FOR: Meaningful Worship, Guest Speakers, Crafts, Games, Amazing Food, and Fun Camp Activities!
REGISTER NOW: CampGhormley.com
PRAYER REQUESTS
• Pray that God will remind our campers from this summer the truths of God that our speakers shared as this school year begins.
• Pray that our past summer staff team will continue to grow in Christ throughout this school year.
• Pray for the staff and campers that will be involved in our future retreat weekends.
Sharing Life Together at Grace
SUNDAYS | 9:15AM | ADULT ED
Our Deeper Roots class continues to grow! We welcome new believers and longtime believers into discussions that begin with our questions and find responses from God in the context of His Word. As we continue to meet through the Summer, we want to remind everyone that there is no designated calendar for topics, that our classes usually run a little long, and that the content is dependent upon what we study at home and bring back to our group for thoughtful and loving consideration. The concept of faith as a stretching of our souls for us to accommodate God’s perspective is principal in our thinking and discussion and the growth of our hearts.
RING THE BELLS WORKSHOPS
SEPTEMBER 16TH & OCTOBER 14TH | 6:30PM
Have you been intrigued with the handbells playing in worship? Maybe you don’t want the pressure of performing but would like the fun of learning? Now’s your chance! We will learn how to ring and leave at the end of one rehearsal having learned a simple song. The ability to read music is required (prefer two years of piano or band experience).
Learn to Ring Workshops will happen once a month – come to all or come to one! September 16 and October 14 at 6:30p at the church. Questions? Call Julie Hunziker at 530-2094329 or email jbhunziker@gmail.com.
Bell Choir Rehearsals: Tuesdays 6:30p – 8:00p at the church. Contact Julie if you’d like to join this team!
WOW WOMEN OF THE WORD BIBLE STUDY
TUESDAYS | 9:45-11:00AM | WEST
LOUNGE
SEPTEMBER 9TH – NOVEMBER 18TH
The 2025 fall session of Women of the Word (WOW) will begin Tuesday, September 9th and run through November 18th. We meet from 9:45-11 A.M. in the West Lounge.
We are blessed with a team of teaching leaders who each bring their gifted styles, perspectives and insights into the study of God’s word. If you’re looking for fellowship, developing new friendships, digging into the Bible and supporting each other in prayer, then WOW is the place to be on Tuesday mornings.
Gratitude explodes for Donna Oliva’s organization and teaching leadership of WOW over these past years. Donna is bowing out of her planning organizational role but gratefully will continue as a teaching leader. Thank you, Donna, for serving God and the WOW women with your encouragement, sensitivity and love of God’s word. So “Mark” your calendars for September 9th, 9:45 A.M. for the study of the gospel of Mark. Join WOW women as we learn more about Jesus through the eyes of Mark.
STARRY STARRY NIGHT THURSDAY | OCT 9 | 7PM | SANCTUARY
Join us for Starry Starry Night on Thursday, October 9 at 7:00pm in our Sanctuary. We are grateful to highlight local artists who enjoy sharing their musical gifts with our community. Please check out our website for more information! This is a free event and open to the public.
Sharing Life Together at Grace
WEDNESDAYS@GRACE FALL SERIES
SEPTEMBER 24TH – NOVEMBER 12TH
Our fall Weds@Grace series kicks off September 24th and will end on November 12th. Dinner at 6:00pm in the Gym and classes for all ages beginning at 6:45pm. Children meet on the 2nd floor in the KidZone room and Youth (6th-12th graders) meet in the Rec Room off of the Gym. Adult class options coming soon! We hope you will join us Wednesdays!
FAMILY FRIENDLY TRUNK OR TREAT
SATURDAY | OCT 25 | 6-8PM | CHURCH PARKING LOT
Candy, cake and cars needed for our annual trunk or treat community outreach. Please RSVP to the church office if you can help with candy or cake donations or are planning on attending with a decorated car.
Reading Mentors Needed
ADAMS ELEMENTARY
READING MENTORS AT ADAMS
Tom Oliva will be on the prowl again this Fall for Reading Mentors at Adams Elementary School. More info will be coming soon about this exciting ministry. We plan to kick off Reading Teams early October. Please connect with Tom to sign up or for more information.
DUTCH APPLE PIE – PRESCHOOL FUNDRAISER
Support our preschool by ordering your apple pies by November 9. Pick-up from the church begins Nov. 19.
Sunday Services
9AM SUNDAY SERVICE
9am Contemporary style worship, classes for children of all ages. Childcare available.
9am Grace Kids (K – 5th grade) in KidZone 2nd Floor
9am Middle School and High School Clubs (6th – 12th grade) Mezzanine and Lower Level Classrooms
9:15am Deeper Roots Adult Bible Study (Adult Ed Room)
Calendar of Events September
Aug 28
SEPTEMBER
11am Traditional style worship with choir and pipe organ. Childcare available.
Prayer Available at the front of the sanctuary after each service.
Communion Served the First Sunday of each month at both services, unless otherwise noted.
Sept 4
Sept 7
Sept 8
Sept 8
Sept 9
Sept 10 B
Sept 14
Sept 14
Sept 21
Sept 23 S
Sept 24 Weds@Grace Kick Off 6pm Dinner/ 6:45pm Classes Gym Wednesday Evenings through November 12th
Weekly Meetings and Classes
MONDAYS
Preschool 9am
Trailseekers 2:45pm Gym
Men’s BSF 7pm Sanctuary
THURSDAYS
Preschool 9am
Women’s BSF 9:15am Sanctuary
Worship Team Rehearsal 6pm Sanctuary
TUESDAYS
Preschool 9am
WOW Bible Study 9:45am Lounge
Men’s BSF (Satellite) 7pm Lounge
Handbell Rehearsals 5:30pm Mezzanine
FRIDAYS Preschool 9:00am
Calendar of Events October
WEDNESDAYS
Preschool 9am
Youth Group 6pm Gym
Weds@Grace 6pm Gym/Classrooms
Temple Choir Rehearsal 7pm Sanctuary
SATURDAYS
On Fire Ministry Youth Bible Study & Dinner 6pm Gym
Fri, Oct 3 – Grace Hosting Presbytery Gathering Friday afternoon through Sanctuary Sat, Oct 4 Noon on Saturday
Sun, Oct 5 Communion Sunday Both Services Sanctuary Mon, Oct 6 Personnel Team Meeting 10:30am Pastor’s Office
Tue, Oct 7 Staff Calendar Meeting 10:00am Adult Ed Room
Tue, Oct 7 Pickleball for everyone! 19am - 11am Gym Tuesdays begining October 7th
Tue, Oct 7 Worship Ministry Team Meeting 4:30pm Garden Room
Wed, Oct 8 Business Ministry Team Meeting 4:00pm Adult Ed Room
Thur, Oct 9 Foundation Meeting 4:00pm Library
Thur, Oct 9 SOZO Leadership Meeting 6:00pm Adult Ed Room
Thur, Oct 9 Starry Starry Night Concert 7:00pm Sanctuary Fri, Oct 10 No Preshcool Today
Sun, Oct 12 Deacon Meeting 12:20pm Lounge Mon, Oct 13 Preschool Board Meeting 1:00pm Adult Ed Room
Tue, Oct 14 Pickleball Tuesdays 19am - 11am Gym
Tue, Oct 14 Mission Meeting 4:00pm Adult Ed Room
Sun, Oct 19 Pastor Conversations After Each Service Fireside Room
Sat, Oct 25 Trunk or Treat Event 6:00pm Parking Lot
Sun, Oct 26 Jon’s Retirement Celebration 11:00 am Sanctuary
Tue, Oct 28 Session Meeting 6:30pm Adult Ed Room DATE
