September 2023 Newsletter

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER

Let the Vineyards Be Fruitful: A Harvest of Generosity

Our fall theme will explore the spiritual gift of generosity. At its core, generosity is a lifestyle in which we share all that we have, are, and ever will be as a demonstration of God's love and a response to God's grace. Generosity embraces a biblical understanding of stewardship:

God is the owner of everything We trust God to take care of us and the world

What we have has been given to us by God

The resources of our time, talent, and treasure are assets to be invested in the kingdom

Generosity begets generosity. In other words, generosity is a gift; it doesn’t come to us naturally. As human beings, we're hardwired to take care of ourselves and our needs first. We need to nurture generosity within ourselves and each other. We need to tell stories of generosity. Fortunately, the Bible is full of stories of generosity. Fortunately, we have our own experiences. Together, we'll be sharing stories as we explore weekly reflection questions, such as:

Who taught you to be generous? Who would you like to say "Thank you" to?

In what ways would you like to be more generous?

One of the key ways we'll be sharing our stories is in small group gatherings in September and October. We have so many new and returning members we want to take some time to reconnect and strengthen our community as we continue to rebuild after COVID. The goal is simply to get together, get to know some new folks, and share our stories and dreams for Redeemer. The gatherings will take place in homes, restaurants, pubs, and at church. Look for opportunities to sign up for a gathering that fits you.

Generosity, when it flows naturally from the heart of a church community, is contagious. It has an undeniable effect on anyone who comes into contact with it. May this season be a blessing to us as we explore the core message of our faith: God generously gave everything to us, even his only Son, so that we all may have life.

ATLANTA, GA

CelebratedperformerRichardElliott,PrincipalTabernacleOrganistatTempleSquare,is aformerassistantorganistatthefamousWanamakerorganinPhiladelphia.He performsaroundthecountryandhasrecordedonnumerouslabels.ThisrareAtlanta concertwillbenefittheRaymondMartinOrganFundatRedeemerforthepreservationof thechurch’s59-stopLétourneaupipeorgan. Youcanpurchaseticketsatthislink,atthe displayintheSimsAtriumonSundaymornings,orbyscanningtheQRcodeabove.

CHILDREN AND YOUTH MUSIC MINISTRIES

Seraphim Choir, grades 2-5. 6:00-7:00 | Room 204

Redeemer Ringers, grade 3 and up. 7:00-7:30 | Room 202

Choirs are a wonderful way for children to serve boldly and grow faithfully. Redeemer’s choral and handbell ensembles are open to all. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings: Register at this link. Please contact Sarah at shawbecker@redeemer.org with questions or for more information.

J O Y Choir is back!

J O Y is an ensemble for Just Our Youth, grades 6-12 We’ll meet on Sunday mornings 9:00-9:30 am beginning September 10 Joining voices in fellowship and praise, you will make friends and memories while serving God, our congregation and community. Register here

SundaySchool

We are so excited for the 2023-2024 Sunday School year! It will be our 'normalest' one yet since the pandemic. Sunday School is a great way to fulfill the promises you made in baptism and one of the ways our congregation fulfills the baptismal promises we make as a community. This fall, Sunday School will be inperson, in classrooms.

We look forward to learning, growing, and serving with your family this year!

The First Day of Sunday School in classrooms is September 10!

Join us in person at Redeemer on September 10 from 10:00-10:45 for our first day in classrooms according to age group

Find more details on our Sunday School Flyer at this link about what the age groups are this year and how to participate

Complete a new registration for the current year for each student For the 23-24 school year, all registrations will be online. You can find the form at this link.

Sunday School is from 10:00-10:45 am.

Children's Sunday School is for ages 2- 5th grade Please see announcements from our Youth and Adult Faith Formation teams for opportunities for other age groups

Pleasedon'thesitatetobringusquestionsandideasregardingSundaySchool.Wearelooking forwardtoagreatyearaswejointhewholecongregationinexploringourfalltheme: AHarvestofGenerosity

InChrist, DeaconMaryHouck DirectorofChildrenandFamilyMinistries mhouck@redeemerorg

Michelle Spady Volunteer Sunday School Coordinator children@redeemer

org

FaithSteppingStones livingthe promisesof baptism

Integrated with our Sunday School schedule throughout the school year, these classes offer kids a deeper dive on an aspect of their faith.

To participate, register with the Sunday School form, and find details for your child's age group on our flyer.

Baptism at Redeemer

Greetings! If you or someone you know is expecting a child or interested in baptism at Redeemer at any age, we would love to celebrate this special milestone with your family! We have several dates available. Here are some details:

Wearereturningtoourpre-pandemicpracticeofholdingBaptismFestivals.Thismeanscertain Sundaysaredesignatedforbaptisms,andtheremaybeseveralfamiliescelebratingabaptism atthesametime.

Single-familybaptismswereofferedafterthelateserviceonmostSundaysthroughtheendof July NOTEthatwediscontinuedschedulingindividualbaptismsatthattime,andall baptismswilltakeplaceonfestivaldatesstartinginAugust.

PleaseinquireformoredetailsonschedulingandgettingtheBaptismregistrationform.

Upcoming Festival Dates

October 8, 2023 (Columbus/Indigenous People's day Weekend)

December 31, 2023 at 10 am (New Year’s Eve Combined Worship)

Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 11 am (during our Family Easter Vigil Service)

Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 7pm (during the traditional Easter Vigil Service)

May 26, 2024 (Memorial Day Weekend)

WhyBaptismFestivals?

Baptismisasacramentcelebratedincommunity.Whilewehavedoneseveralbaptismsaftera worshipserviceforsafetyreasonsduringthepandemic,itisimportantthatthecongregationbe partofthebaptismliturgyasmuchaspossible.

Groupingupbaptismsoncertaindaysallowsustouseaspecialliturgyfocusedonbaptismand trulyhighlightitasaspecialevent,ratherthanitbeingafootnotetoaservicewithadifferent focus.Also,it'sfun!It'sagreatwaytogettoknowotherfamilies,andyourchildwillgrowupwith friendsatRedeemerwhosharetheirbaptismanniversary-aspecialbondthatcanfollowthem throughoutlife.

In Christ,

Deacon Mary Houck (she/her) Director of Children and Family Ministries

mhouck@redeemer.org 770-778-7085

Rejoicing Spirits

September 17

October 22

November 12

December 17

10:1510:45 am in Rudisill Hall

Rejoicing Spirits is in full swing this year, and we have so much joy to share! We want to hear what sparks joy for you. Mark your calendar now!!

Join

Rejoicing Spirits Worship

Sunday, September 17 at 10:15 am

ThismonthatRejoicingSpirits,weremindeachotherthatGodcherishesusanddesiresusto bewellineveryway,includingourfaith Wewillexploresomeofourfavoritewaystocarefor ourselvesandeachother.

Wemeetat10:15a.m.onselectSundaymorningsinRudisillHall.Allagesandabilitiesarewelcome. RejoicingSpiritsisa'non-hushing'servicewhereeveryonecanbethemselves

OurSeptemberservicewillbeHybrid.Youcanjoinworshipdirectlybyclickingonthislink.

CHILDREN AND FAMILY MINISTRY AT REDEEMER Fall2023

Sunday School Resumes-

First Day in Classrooms- Sunday, September 10- 10–10:45 am. Volunteers will be on hand to direct you to your classroom. New students are welcome to join any Sunday. See the entire Sunday School schedule at this link.

iFamilyCamping sBack!

Coming Up! InviteaFriend!

Fall Family Camp Weekend at Lutheranch- October 6-8 Scholarships are available- we want everyone to go! Speak to Deacon Mary about a scholarship.

This is a new opportunity offered by our closest Lutheran camp for a weekend of family fun! Families can find more information and register directly through their website.

Monster Mash and Pipe Screams- Friday, October 27 Redeemer grounds, Atrium, and Sanctuary. 5:45–8:00 pm

Our annual party brings all the little monsters out to play! Carnival games, pizza dinner, the fan-favorite 'Pipe Screams' concert with spooky music on our organ, and more! You don't want to miss it.

Family Advent Celebration and Christmas Program- Sunday, December 3- 10–11 am

Performance in the Sanctuary, with brunch and Advent Celebration to follow in the Sims Atrium. All are welcome! Rehearsals for the children's program will be during Sunday School in November with one mandatory dress rehearsal on Saturday, December 2nd.

LOOKING AHEAD- SPRING 2024

Sunday School Resumes- January 7

MLK Service Project- Monday, January 15

FAMILY RETREAT at Lutheranch - Friday, February 9- Sunday, February 11

Family Easter Vigil and Egg Hunt- Saturday, March 23

Family Fun: Berry Picking- Saturday, April 27

Watch for a Summer event schedule coming out sometime this month so you can start penciling in VBS and camp!

SEPT 24

Our High School Youth Group will meet on Sunday, September 24, after High School Faith Formation time We are considering going to Ponce City Market Roof for fun and fellowship!

OCT 1

SynodEvents&SummerOpportunitiesMeeting

Middle School & High School Youth are invited to hear about what is happening for our Synod Youth Events and Summer 2024 This includes ALL GA 2024, VBS (volunteer opportunity), Lutheridge/Redeemer Week, & ELCA Youth Gathering 2024

Coming Up for Redeemer Youth...

SEPTEMBER 10: Confirmation/Parents Meeting, HS Faith Formation (Café Sunday), HS Parents & Beyond Gathering, Signup for Youth Service Project on 9/16 due, & Signup for Confirmation Retreat Due

SEPTEMBER 16: Youth Service Project @ FODAC

SEPTEMBER 17: Confirmation and HS Faith Formation (Café Sunday)

SEPTEMBER 22-24: Confirmation Retreat @ Lutheranch

SEPTEMBER 24: No Confirmation, HS Faith Formation (Cafe Sunday), MS Parents Gathering, & HS Youth Group

OCTOBER 1: Confirmation, HS Faith Formation, HS Parents & Beyond Gathering, and Synod Events & Summer Opportunities Meeting

Pictures: Confirmation Small Group time & FODAC in January 2022

November 17-18, the Redeemer Young Adults will gather at the Holy Trinity House at Lutheranch for fun, fellowship, and to explore faith together. We'll prepare simple meals together, enjoy the beautiful grounds at Lutheranch, and have hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding opportunities. The retreat will be begin Friday evening and end Saturday afternoon, so you will still have half your weekend free. More details to come, but you can register any time.

REGISTER HERE

REDEEMER YA SEPTEMBER EVENTS

Game Night/Book Launch

9.16.23

Join us for pizza and a game night hosted by group member Dan Levy at his apartment building just a few blocks from Redeemer. We will also celebrate with Dan his first book, Et al. If you want the author to sign a copy, you can preorder yours at this link.

Lunch Together

9.24.23

Meet in the Sims atrium to walk to lunch together at a Midtown restaurant following the 11:00 a.m. worship service. The church will cover the amount above $20 if desired. We want everyone to come!

Fall 2023

Greetings Redeemer family!

This fall will see a lot of exciting opportunities to grow in our faith here at Redeemer! Whether you want a class that is centered around scripture, a class that helps us live out our faith in our daily lives, or just the opportunity to connect with others, there is a place for you here!

Starting September 10th, our Sundays will be packed with exciting opportunities!

Join Ed Scherlacher for "God's Voice in Music, Harmony, and Tonality," which explores the spiritual connection between music and divine communication. Drawing inspiration from Charles Jirkovsky's insightful book, "Music in the Bible," this class examines the profound role of music in biblical narratives and how it conveyed God's voice throughout history. Join us as we unlock the hidden messages and profound spiritual significance embedded in the sounds of creation and musical expression.

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM | Room 121 & Zoom

Pr Jonathan will start a new class using the book by Brian McLaren called “We Make the Road by Walking,” which will offer the opportunity each week to look at a scripture reading and, using reflection, present an introduction/re-orientation to the Christian Faith. Please note that no reading is required to participate, nor is this a book study. It’s simply an opportunity to gather and grow together.

10:00 a.m. | Room 211

Pat Cornwell will continue leading our ‘Be Still and Journey’ group as they read and discuss "The Heart of Christianity" by Marcus Borg

9:45 gather | Room 119

But that’s not all! There are more opportunities for you during the week!

On Mondays during September, join Ed Scherlacher as he leads a study of the book, “Being Mortal, Medicine and What Matters in the End” focusing on total wellness rather than only safety and survival when confronted with age or terminal illness complications.

4:30 PM | Rudisill & Zoom

8/28/23, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25

Tuesday’s will see our morning Bible Study at Redeemer, which everyone is welcome to join!

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM | Reception Room & Zoom

Pr Jonathan’s book study is currently reading Howard Zinn’s “A People’s History of the United States,” which offers a different perspective on the country's history than we may have heard before. While reading the book is encouraged, it is not required. We are interested in your presence.

Tuesdays | 5 PM | Zoom

Wednesdays see the return of: Early Bird Bible study on Exodus, led by David Ott

4:00 PM | Reception Room

Pastor Mark's class

Martin Luther had an exceptional prayer life. It is not surprising that many of his students asked for advice on how to improve their own spiritual life. In two works, Little Prayer Book (1522) and A Simple Way to Pray (1535), Luther seeks to reform the theology and practice of prayer in clear and understandable language for all people by encouraging simple, direct prayer to God, who promises to hear the one who prays.

6 PM | Rudisill Hall & Zoom

On Thursdays, you can join Pr Ron for his Liberation Thoughts class as they read ‘The Nation that Never Was’ by Kermit Roosevelt.

6 – 7:30 PM | Zoom

As you can see, there are a lot of places to plug in and we will be offering more opportunities later in the year! Of course if there is something that you are interested in learning more about, please email Pr Jonathan at jtrapp@redeemer.org so we can talk about how to make that happen!

Starttheconversationnow beforeahealthcrisismakes yourdecisionsforyou

Redeemer's Aging Symposium on September 30th from 9:30-2:30 will help you start the conversation with your family and friends. Whether you are experiencing challenges of aging yourself or navigating choices with aging parents, family, or friends, this symposium is for you.

We are not going to tell you where you should live.

We will share a few real-life scenarios of disrupted life and irreversible decline. A panel of legal, medical, and spiritual experts will respond to the scenarios from their experience and expertise. Following a catered lunch, there will be breakout sessions with the experts to help answer your questions

The cost is free; donations are welcome to cover the lunch cost. Registration is requested.

REGISTER NOW

Shirley Williams Eifert

Entered the church triumphant August 11, 2023

WeprayforJanetPreston,daughter ofShirley,Susannah,Will,Reed,and MaryClaraandTony,astheymourn thedeathofShirleyEiffert.

Condolencesmaybesentto

JanetPreston,1054OakdaleRd.NE Atlanta,GA30307

Marilyn "Boostie" Grant

Entered the church triumphant August 20, 2023

WeprayforTheFlemingand Grantfamiliesastheymourn thedeathofBootsieGrant Condolencesmaybesentto TheFlemingandGrantFamilies, 109LagoonViewCrossing, Savannah,GA31410

WELLNESS GUEST SPEAKER

SEPTEMBER 24, 10-10:45 AM

D’ETTA BROAM

CANDIDATEFORWORDANDSERVICE MINISTRYINTHESOUTHCAROLINASYNOD

Ms. Broam, who is visiting Redeemer as part of an internship to be a Deacon in the ELCA, will be offering her expertise in holistic wellness with an intergenerational activity on Sunday morning, September 24. All ages and ability levels are welcome!

Watch for more announcements about activities D’Etta will be offering the rest of that week!

RUDISILL HALL

MEN'S RETREAT FISHERS OF MEN

Expert lessons in fly fishing & fly tying

Catfish catching workshop

Lessons in lures and bait

Cleaning & cooking your fish over the campfire and dutch oven

Bible Study (Being a Fisher of Men)

ADULT

Quiet time for prayer and meditation

Walk the prayer labyrinth

Bread baking lessons

Yoga

eat.pray.ride

Trail ride on horseback

Comfortable lodging in the McKanna-Sandrock Retreat Center Delicious meals

WOMEN'S R&R RETREAT

Beauty of Rest and Creation

October 20-22, 2023

$250/person, Double room

$305/person, Single room

Program Elements:

Comfortable lodging

Delicious homecooked meals

Bible Study & Worship

Crafts

Hiking

Socializing Spa Room (manicures, pedicures, facials, wax hands & aromatherapy)

Add on options

Massage $65 (40 min)

Trail ride $65 (2 hr)

https://lutheranch.org/fall

THERE’S A PLACE FOR YOU HERE AT REDEEMER

Whether you ’ re life-long Lutheran, new to the Christian faith, or somewhere else on your journey of faith, you belong at Redeemer Come to the fall new member class to share your journey, learn about our community, and prepare to become a full member of Redeemer

Get to know Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, our past ministry, our vision for the future and mission for today.

Lutheran Faith

An overview of the Lutheran faith, a brief history, our beliefs, worship and polity

Our Faith Stories Our Faith in Action

A time to share what led us to Redeemer and how God has been present, absent, or somewhere else along the way

Have more questions? Ask Pastor Jenny McLellan jmclellan@redeemer.org

A discussion about membership and stewardship of money, time, skills and gifts

The steering committee organizing Groovin' Down in Midtown on August 10th is most grateful for the trust and support our pastors, council, staff, volunteers, and congregation placed in us for this event. The inspiration was born from Pastor Bonner's idea for front porch music events at Redeemer, which was married to a pilot program initiated by Midtown Alliance called Ad-Venture We believe it was a success based on the smiles and fun time many folks expressed that they had, but Sally Rosser, Leith Fitch, Janet Preston, and Pastor Bonner achieved six goals:

"Build community within Redeemer" was achieved - many showed up! We had three pastors, eight council members, 38 volunteers, and over 80 attendees from our congregation.

"Increase Visibility and Recognition of the 'Front Porch' at Redeemer." Situating the live band on the 4th street level drew people off Peachtree Street and enlivened the street-level experience for those who live and work nearby. Many attended because they had "heard the music and came out to find out what was going on."

"Build relationships with our Midtown neighbors." In addition to engaging St Mark's parish next door to collaborate in this event, we had attendees from area workplaces such as AT&T, Lutheran Towers, and condominium residents.

"Build relationships with Midtown Alliance and our corporate neighbors." We applied for and received Midtown Alliance AdVenture pilot program funds of $7,500 and much help with publicity from Midtown Alliance. We also asked for and received email blast advertising from the High Museum, the Fox Theatre, and several businesses to their employees.

"Inspire our neighbors to become ministry partners " A half dozen community engagement partners and food ministry received one or more new volunteer sign-ups, and the Wellspring Living representative said she would be attending our church now.

"Build a more welcoming and inclusive community." All who came by were welcome, and Pastor Mark personally shook hands with those seated at tables or exploring the concession booths The 1970's vibe was all-inclusive!

We look forward to more groovy-type events that bring us together to have FUN through the work and play of it all, to make a more joyful noise unto the Lord!

2.

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5 6.

1 Lynne Morelock-Roy

1 Isabella Taylor

2 Clarissa Cortopassi

2 Sydney Heisler

2 Allen Johnson

2 Amy

3 Margaret

3 Cherie Rice

4 Jacqueline

4 Wes Hetrick

4 Christi Morgan-Johnson

4 Michael O'Brien

4 John Pearson

4 Vicki Rafferty

5 Lorraine

5 Colin

5 Jacquelyn

23 Christy Beimfohr

23 Tom

23 Jennifer

25 Linda Floyd

25 Gretchen

25 Charissa Schultz

25 Steve

26 Lindsey

26 Rob

26 Erica

26 Lars Sides

26 Gail Sutton

27 John Bartlett

27 Lesley Robertson

28 Timothy Buchanan

28 Colin Cooperider

28 Paul Freudenstein

28 Bob Gibeling

28 Ansley