SEPTEMBER 2026
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF
THE REDEEMER ATLANTA, GA
SEPT
September
13
at a Glance SEPT
SEPT
13
SEPT
13
CHILDREN’S SUNDAY SCHOOL
First day in classrooms!
CONFIRMATION: PARENT/STUDENT ORIENTATION
16 SEPT
20
Choral Scholars Join Us
SELF DEFENSE & PERSONAL SAFETY CLASS
10 am - 11 am Register today!
REJOICING SPIRTS
Rudisill Hall @10 am
Rudisill Hall @10 am
SEPT SEPT
ADULT FORUM
13
Beginning, Living the Faith: Christian Discipleship in a Complex World
SEPT
GOD’S WORK, OUR HANDS
13
WORSHIP
12 pm Sign-up today!
27
STREETS ALIVE!
2 - 6 pm Open streets for all.
& More
WORSHIP/MUSIC
Creation in Christ Festival Sunday September 6th As part of a global ecumenical effort that has been developing for several years, in 2026 the ELCA is beginning the observance of a feast day celebrating “the ongoing creation of the world in and through Christ, who sustains, unites, and holds all created things. We celebrate the triune God who creates all things: sun and moon, shining stars, sea monsters, creeping things and flying birds—and, yes, even human beings. God-in-Christ still takes care of all things and invites us to join in as caretakers of God's good creation.” The Creation in Christ date is set for “September 1 or the Sunday after,” which in 2026 is September 6. And we’re ahead of the curve—one of Redeemer’s stained glass windows in the chancel also represents our reverence and praise for creation! Since the seventh century, September 1 has symbolized the day of the creation of the world in the Byzantine tradition and has been the opening feast of its liturgical year (known as the Feast of the Indiction), in parallel with the feast of Rosh Hashanah marking the Jewish New Year. Various religious traditions have commonly observed a date in the time between September 1 (sometimes called Creation Day or World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation) and October 4 (the commemoration of Francis of Assisi, at which time we often hold a blessing of the animals). More recently, an ecumenical conversation began about formalizing a liturgical festival of creation (sometimes called a Feast of Creation) in this timeframe that could be observed across denominations and even across Eastern and Western branches of Christianity. The ELCA has been a part of this ecumenical conversation, and we are excited for Redeemer to participate in this wide-reaching effort to celebrate our Creation in Christ with this festival date at the beginning of September. Come and join us (and check out the window over the organ console)!
Redeemer’s Benedicite Window, depicting a call for all the works of creation to join in a song of praise to God the Creator
FUGUES, BLUES, AND BOLLING A jazz concert featuring music from the Suites for Flute and Cello by Claude Bolling presented by the Redeemer Friends of Music
Sunday
Oct. 4 2:00 pm Brian Parks, piano Jerry Fields, percussion
Concong Bi, cello Chris Riggenbach, bass Teodora Stoyanova, flute
Donations aaccepted at the door Free parking
Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 731 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta
WELCOME
MEET OUR NEW INTERN ROEL SALINAS starting Sunday September 13
Roel Salinas has been working in the ministry setting since 2017; first as a campus minister, then as a children’s director, and finally as a social worker at a church serving people journeying through homelessness. He came on to staff at Cross of Life in the Fall of 2022. Prior to joining the staff team, Roel pursued a dual degree to get his Master of Divinity from Emoryʼs Candler School of Theology and his Master of Social Work from UGA, graduating in May of 2022. Roel is currently in the process of ordination in the ELCA. He and his wife Maddy live in Roswell with their three cats and bearded dragon. His wife works as a nurse. Some of his hobbies include rock climbing, crocheting, and hiking.
Plan on staying after the 11 AM service for lunch. After lunch we will join with the residents of Lutheran Towers for service and fellowship.
Sunday September 27 2 - 6 pm
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! SIGN UP AT THE TABLE IN THE SIMS ATRIUM
Choral
Scholars Redeemer is rightly proud of our all-volunteer choir, but changes in choir size and attendance patterns–mirroring the congregation--prompted us to consider adding paid singers to provide necessary support for the volunteer singers, to maintain their support for weekly and seasonal worship services at Redeemer’s high standard of excellence, and to engage younger people with the church. Rather than hiring adult singers like most of our peer congregations, we envisioned a program of younger people, scholars who are beginning their choral singing careers. Our scholars: Must be a student actively attending a metro Atlanta high school through graduate school May have any major, but must participate in a student music ensemble at their school. Will sing at every rehearsal, service, and concert from late August through early May. Will serve a one-year term, renewable. The choral scholars program will be funded through generous gifts from Rosemary Kolpatzki, Bob Gibeling, and Renate Seybold. Thanks be to God! The Choral Scholars for 2026-2027 are: Elainë Frey (Soprano) comes from Des Moines, Iowa beginning her master's in vocal performance first year at Georgia State University. Delaney Downs (Alto) is beginning her second year of a master's in vocal performance at Georgia State University following a summer internship with St. Louis Opera. Kailen McCauley (Tenor), originally from Long Island, New York, is beginning his first year as an ML PhD/graduate student at Georgia Tech, working toward advanced computer science and machine learning research. Will Starkey (Baritone), from Flowery Branch, Georgia, is beginning his senior year in mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech. David-Jayden Waller (Bass), from Atlanta, is beginning his sophomore year in vocal performance at Georgia State.
WORSHIP
Baptism
at Redeemer
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: At Redeemer, we hold Baptism Festivals, special Sundays designated for baptisms when several families may be celebrating a baptism at the same time. Please inquire for more details on how scheduling works and to get the Baptism registration form.
Upcoming Festival Dates Sunday, October 11 at either service Sunday, December 27 - One service at 10 am Sunday, February 14 at either service Saturday, March 27 Family Easter Vigil Service at 10 am Sunday, May 30 at either service
Why Baptism Festivals? Baptism is a sacrament celebrated in community. Grouping up baptisms on certain days allows us to use a special liturgy focused on baptism and truly highlight it as a special event, rather than it being a footnote to a service with a different focus. Also, it's fun! It's a great way to get to know other families, and your child will grow up with friends at Redeemer who share their baptism anniversary- a special bond that can follow them throughout life.
For more information and to schedule a baptism, please contact: Deacon Mary Houck (she/her) Director of Children and Family Ministries mhouck@redeemer.org 770-778-7085
CHILDREN AND FAMILY MINISTRY
SundaySchool First Day in Classrooms: September 13 10:00-10:45 Ages Zero- 5th grade Click Here for Sunday School info Click here for Faith Stepping Stone info click here for Registration
Rooted in God's Word Growing in Faith Together
riend! F a e Invit yone is Ever ome Welc
Save the Date!
Sch o A v a la rs hip s il a b l e !
Monster Mash and Pipe Screams Friday, October 23 Family Advent Celebration and Christmas Program Sunday, December 6 Family Retreat ONE DAY only- Saturday, April 24 at Camp Glisson in Dahlonega, GA VBS 2027 June 7-11 Redeemer Week at Lutheridge June 20- 25
CHILDREN AND FAMILY MINISTRIES
Family Camping Trip Redeemer families headed to Camp Glisson in Dahlonega for a weekend of family camping. We gathered around campfires, gazed at the stars, waded at the base of a waterfall, cooked good food together, explored ways we can be blessings to our families and communities, raised our voices in worship, laughed hard, and played a LOT! Whatever size and shape your family is, we hope you’ll join us next year!!
Make Memories
Tell Notice Stories God's
Be Still
PlayCreation
SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY
Creation
in Christ
Rejoicing Spirits Worship Sunday, September 20 at 10:15 am
Rejoicing Spirits is back after our summer break! Creation in Christ is an exciting new worship festival which our other services will celebrate September 6. In Rejoicing Spirits, we will celebrate the beauty and abundance of God’s creation and how we can all care for it. We meet at 10:15 am on select Sunday mornings in Rudisill Hall. All ages and abilities are welcome. Rejoicing Spirits is a 'non-hushing' service where everyone can be themselves. Our service will be hybrid. You can join worship directly at this Zoom link.
20'S/30'S MINISTRY
Learn More
20'S/30'S MINISTRY Lunch Together 9.27.26 We will meet in Sims Atrium after the late service to get lunch together somewhere in the neighborhood. Join us for some good food and good conversation!
Join our Discord server to get the latest on upcoming events (and some entertaining Christian memes). Contact Dn Mary for an invite.
Get Involved The 20's/30's Ministry team meets regularly on Zoom. Join us to shape the future of this ministry, or just get to know some awesome people!
Contact Dani Vogel (dvogel@redeemer.com) Deacon Mary Houck (mhouck@redeemer.org) for more information.
Redeemer Youth Events and Announcements September and Beyond!
faith friends fun
It’s Almost Fall Y’all
Redeemer confirmation students had a blast with their new and old friends from Epiphany and St. John's Lutheran Church at the Confirmation Retreat last weekend. Ask our youth about their new acolyting skills! Stay Tuned for Emails and sign ups to get to know Dani Vogel, our new Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries!
Youth Ministry Calendar at a Glance Sept 12: Sojourn Adventures All Youth Outing. Please bring a lunch! Cost is 15 dollars per person. Activity is from about 8:30 - 12:30 pm. Stay tuned for registration details next week! Sept 13: Youth Gathering Pre-Trip Info Session following 11 am worship Sept 20: Youth Gathering Pre-Trip Info Session between services
Events and Opportunities Save the Date! 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering June 28 - July 2, 2027 The ELCA Youth Gathering will be in Minnesota next summer (2027). Please mark your calendar as we will begin fundraising soon. More to come! Read about the youth gathering here. 2026 Contact Us
Forms and Quick Links Volunteer Form: Can you drive people around? Are you a night owl? Can you order food and bring it to a place? We need you all! Please fill out the volunteer form. Email List: Please let Dani know if there is someone who needs to be added to the email list.
Dani Vogel, Youth and Young Adult Ministries Director, dvogel@redeemer.org Pastor Jonathan Trapp, Associate Pastor for Faith Formation, jtrapp@redeemer.org The 2026 Youth Ministry Team: Karen Rachel, Chari Fletcher (Co-High School Representative), Charlotte Herold (Middle School Youth Representative), Creston Herold (Co-Chair), Dani Vogel, Wendy Kraby, Lielis Merkel (Co-Chair), Jenny Peterson, Lars Peterson (Co-High School Representative), The Rev. Dr. Jonathan Trapp
FAITH FORMATION
SUNDAY MORNING CLASSES AT 10 am
New Fall Adult Forum Series: “Living the Faith: Christian Discipleship in a Complex World" What does it mean to follow Jesus in today's world? How do we live faithfully amid political division, rapid technological change, questions of mental health, and the everyday demands of work, family, and community? Join us this fall for a 12-week Adult Forum series, Living the Faith: Christian Discipleship in a Complex World, as we explore what it means to be Christ's disciples in the midst of real life. The series will feature a variety of gifted leaders from our congregation along with special guest presenters from the ELCA Foundation, Inspiritus, and the wider church. Sundays in the Reception Room beginning September 13 Unit One: Following Jesus Today | led by Deacon Allison Unit Three: Hope, Community and Mission September 13 - October 4 led by Pastor Tim Unit Two: Christianity and Public Life | led by Pastor Jonathan November 15-December 13 October 11- November 8 Mysteries of Faith | Room 121 | Led by Peter Quist Please join us Sunday as we embark on our study of the book, ”Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things”, the latest (2026) book authored by pastor and theologian Brian Zahnd. The notion, let alone the hope of heaven, has disappeared from most of our theology. In Unseen Existences, Zahnd offers cynical and materialistic people a path to reclaiming and reimagining heaven as well as all that was and will be. The book is deeply comforting without being fuzzy or saccharine or easily cross-stitched on a pillow. It’s the kind of hope that generations of fellow Christians know well and held in trust for our generation now. Hopeful and filled with wonder, Zahnd offers a beautiful theology of life as pilgrimage with a home waiting for us at the end. No book purchase is required. All are welcome to join in a lively discussion of refashioning timeless truths into an even truer beauty.
Wednesdays at Redeemer 4:00 PM Early Bird Bible Study | Reception Room 5:00 PM Dinner | Sims Atrium 6:00 PM Pastor's Class | Rudisill Hall “How the Bible Actually Works” by Peter Enns
In-person and online How should we read the Bible in a world shaped by science, history, and modern questions? What do we do when Scripture seems confusing, contradictory, or difficult to reconcile with our expectations? Enns invites readers to see the Bible not as a rulebook or answer key, but as a living story of God's relationship with humanity—a collection of ancient writings that continues to shape faith today. Together, we'll explore topics such as: What kind of book the Bible is—and isn't. Why the biblical authors often interpret Scripture in surprising ways. How understanding the Bible's historical and cultural context deepens rather than weakens faith. What it means to read Scripture faithfully as followers of Jesus today. Whether you've wrestled with difficult passages for years or simply want to deepen your understanding of Scripture, this class offers a welcoming space for honest questions, thoughtful conversation, and renewed appreciation for God's Word. No prior biblical knowledge is required—just curiosity and a willingness to explore.
Midweek Evening Prayer | Worship at 7:00 PM 7:30 PM Redeemer Choir | Hinely Hall
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Deeply Rooted, Joyfully Sent
Women’s Retreat 2026
This year’s retreat will be a ONE day event right here in the Atlanta area! We will meet on the beautiful campus of Columbia Seminary in Decatur (near Agnes Scott) from 9 am- 4 pm. We’ll pack a lot of faithful learning and great conversations into those hours. You won’t want to miss it! Our theme this year is an exploration of Christian identity- rooted in our identity as children of God and members of our faith community, how are we sent to be God’s hands and feet in the world?
$30 per person
Register Here
Scholarships Available
October 3rd Columbia Seminary - Decatur GA Janjay Innis is a public theologian who preaches, teaches, and facilitates conversations nationally on the most pressing social issues of our time, calling individuals and communities to work together for equitable, lasting change.
Keystone MINISTRY
SELF DEFENSE AND
PERSONAL SAFETY HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
HOW TO STRIKE USING NATURAL MOVEMENTS HOW TO DE ESCALATE A SITUATION
WE WILL GATHER AT
9:30 AM
HOW TO BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS AND MORE!
FOR LIGHT REFRESHMENTS
CLASS WILL BE HELD FROM
10:00 – 11:00 AM THERE IS A COST PER PERSON FOR THE CLASS.
$25
USE THE QR CODE TO
SIGN UP!
ALL AGES AND ABILITIES
ARE WELCOME!
RSVP
New Member Class Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 9 am-12 pm Reception Room Breakfast will be served!
Sign up by scanning the QR code
All those interested in learning more about Lutheran theology, the history of Redeemer, and joining Redeemer are invited to join Deacon Allison Lizdas for this one day class. Questions? Email Deacon Allison at alizdas@redeemer.org.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Wellspring Living’s 2026 Activate Conference to *Educate *Equip Conference Highlights *Empower Trauma-informed exploration of holistic healing practices
for survivors Protecting children from online risks that can lead to exploitation – including sextortion, sexting, and recognition of warning signs Law enforcement discussion of victim protection when victims are charged with crimes Early intervention through consistent guidance, mentorship, and safe spaces V.P. of Operations and Effectiveness for IHG Hotels shared commitment to combat sex trafficking in all 7,000 hotels worldwide by training staff and prohibiting all types of child sexual exploitation materials on their properties Director of Grant Making Strategy for the UPS Foundation and co-founder of Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) spoke of empowering safe communities and of creating TAT to be the “eyes and ears” of our nation’s roadways, the format and training now spreading to other transportation organizations
The Wellspring Living 2026 Activate Conference, sponsored by UPS, was held on August 20 and provided a full day of valuable connections for antihuman trafficking engagement. This inspiring annual conference brings together business leaders, nonprofits, law enforcement, survivors, and volunteers to learn, collaborate, and share best practices for combating sex and labor trafficking.
Representing Redeeming Grace of Redeemer are Carol Bell, Peg Wyse, and Amy Carpenter pictured with Wellspring Living CEO Heather Lively (second from right).
The day began and was capped at the end by incredibly moving stories from survivors who have done the hard work of recovering and advancing their lives (including with the help of our community engagement partner, Wellspring Living) and are now helping others through a number of programs supporting prevention, advocacy, and recovery. We could not have asked for a more positive and uplifting message that God’s work is, indeed, being accomplished through Redeemer’s and other faith-based organizations’ involvement, and the work goes on!
GROW IN FAITH THIS FALL — ENROLL IN ELCA SOUTHEASTERN SYNOD LEADERSHIP ACADEMY COURSES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY COURSES BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 13 In our everyday lives, we are all leaders and followers. The ELCA Southeastern Synod Leadership Academy (sesleadershipacademy.org) opens this fall, offering Zoom-based courses running September 13th through November 12th. These courses are for anyone who is curious and desires to learn more. You do not have to have a degree, be in a leadership role in a congregation, be a part of our Synod, or even be Lutheran to participate. All people who are willing to be and build a learning community with us are welcome.
Enroll individually or as a group by September 9th in one or more of our eight courses on the topics of: vocation and discipleship, worship fundamentals, Old Testament, exercising your prophetic voice, congregational leadership, artsbased faith formation, spiritual life, and ministries of presence. Courses meet once a week and include two remote coffees and a term celebration via Zoom. Each course costs $60 and includes all required materials; financial aid is available. For questions or assistance, please email leadershipacademy@elca-ses.org.