It is hard to believe that yesterday marked the one-year anniversary of Tri-County Lutheran Parish calling me to be a pastor! In some ways it seems like only yesterday as the weeks and months have flown by in a flurry of activity. At the same time, I can look at times of challenge (like the outbreak of Covid) and it feels like much longer than a few months since we were able to worship in person in our buildings. Thank you for every little and big way you have welcomed my family and me into this parish and these communities. Thank you for trusting me with your celebrations and your grief. I feel extremely blessed to be called here at this holy time and place.

While these last few months have led to new and creative ways of celebrating worship and conducting ministry, like you, I miss aspects of “the way we used to do things.” With that in mind, as we look forward to hopefully returning to in-person worship on July 12th, I urge you not to consider it “normal worship.” There are two reasons for this. One, because worship should never be considered “normal” as there are myriad ways to express praise and thanks and adoration to God. Two, because when we return to in-person worship, it will look different than it did a few months ago.

Here are some of the changes that you can expect to see at in-person worship:

- We will keep our sanctuaries clean based on CDC guidelines for your safety and protection.

- We will be following social distancing guidelines and you will be invited to sit in specific seats. It may not be where you normally sit, but I promise there isn’t a “bad seat in the house.”

- We will be requiring anyone over 2 years old to wear a mask for the duration of the service. We will have masks available for visitors or those who have forgotten. Again, this is for your safety and protection. There is not a single parishioner that I am willing to lose!

- To fulfill obligations to our insurance companies and to NY state, we will be keeping a record of attendance and having waivers signed.

- Communion will be celebrated by the reception of pre-filled “to-go” packs containing juice and a wafer that are safety sealed. We will pray the Communion liturgy together, receive the body and blood, and then take that home to be consumed when you can safely remove your mask to do so.

- Because of the danger in communal singing, we will be foregoing hymn singing and liturgical singing. But, organists are encouraged to play familiar hymns while people are entering and finding seats, then perhaps playing some contemplative instrumental pieces following the sermon.

- We will continue to offer a Zoom worship for those who are more comfortable worshiping from home.

- We will continue to worship God and we will be able to worship with our church families, but it will look a little different.

God, who makes all things new, will be present during this new type of worship. Because no matter how many changes we may have, God’s steadfast love never changes. Our call to love God and love our neighbor never changes.

Peace and blessings,

Pastor Sam

News and Information

Attached in this packet is my sermon from last week, a bulletin for next week and a packet of devotions and prayers. Please note that the Tri-County Lutheran Parish will be following the advice of the bishop, the governor and qualified medical personnel - which means we will be continuing to worship from home at least until July 11th. Meanwhile, we will be working on a safe re-entry plan for when we can assemble in our church buildings once more.

If you wish to worship remotely with us please use this phone number:

1. Dial 1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

2. Enter Meeting ID: 770 099 7419, then press #

3. If the meeting has not already started Press # to wait.

4. You will be prompted to enter your unique participant ID. Press # to skip.

If you have internet ability to join us through Zoom, here is the link: https://zoom.us/j/770099741 9

Worship service videos can be found on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8kJUJTm_PrA-l1qlv8PJ-g

If you would like to serve as a reader during online worship, please let me know! If you would like to serve as an assistant

(and read the congregation parts), please let me know!

If you are in need of food, necessities, masks, or help of any kind, please reach out to me. We have plenty of resources available to us in our parish and we are excited to be God’s hands and feet for each other! If you are in Columbia County, the Office of the Aging has disposable masks available to anyone in the county 60 years of age or older.

Women’s Retreat: Way back in April of last year, we booked a retreat at Camp of the Woods in Speculator to be held Sept 25-27 of this year. We asked Pastor Lori Kochanski, Faith Formation Director for the synod, to lead our retreat. She is planning to use the WELCA Bible Study, "We Are Called" as her framework. This is found in the winter 2020 Gather magazine or it can also be found on this link:

https://www.gathermagazine.org/winter-2020-we-are-called-by-kathryn-a-kleinhans/

Update:

Camp of the Woods will be closed for the rest of the year, all deposits that were given for the Sept 2020 retreat will be transferred to next year. Retreat Dates are September 24, 25 & 26, 2021

For more information, contact Barbara Slater at 518-392-7798.

TCLP Board for 2020

Harry Avery – President

Jackie Menagh – Vice Chair

Duane Keeler – Recording Secretary

Chuck Race -- Treasurer

If you have additions, deletions, changes, etc. for the Parish Connection, bulletins, etc., please either call the Parish office at 518-758-6526 or e-mail me at stlukes@slelc.com or ssmith@tclparish.org. Thank you!

Congregation ANNOUNCEMENTS

In-person worship has been cancelled until 7/11/20

EMANUEL, STUYVESANT FALLS

Contact -- Duane Keeler oneservantofgod@gmail.com

COUNCIL:

Karen Albertson Term Expires 2021

Harry Avery Term Expires 2021

Linda Frick Term Expires 2022 Co-Treasurer

Duane Keeler Term Expires 2022 President

Leslie Dumont Term Expires 2023 Vice-President

Pr. Sam N/A Ex Officio member

Chuck Albertson Secretary Not on council

Dick Frick Co-Treasurer Not on council

OUTREACH COMMITTEE (Joint committee with St. Luke’s)

Teresa Avery

Karen Albertson

Phyllis Keeler

WORSHIP COMMITTEE (Joint committee with St. Luke’s)

Phyllis Keeler

PARISH SPECIAL WORSHIP SERVICES TEAM

Karen Albertson

Duane Keeler (Chair)

ST. LUKE’S, VALATIE

Contact -- Kara Udwary Karap1969@aol.com

St. Luke’s Council Members

Ethan Race

518-209-7829

Tim McGlauflin

518-756-4644

*Kara Udwary (President)

518-821-0437

Karap1969@aol.com

*Ken Schomaker (Treasurer)

518-758-1246

*Linda Dickson

(Financial Secretary)

518-610-8056

Mike Schunk

518-610-8201

Janis McGlauflin

518-828-1857

Jose Roman

518-354-0892

Barbara Slater

(Corresponding Secretary)

518-392-7798

Not on Council

Larry Eleby

518-929-1432

Sharon Smith

518-929-9765

Karen Lasher

518-784-2032

Beegee Roppolo

518-320-6232

Sharon Smith

518-929-9765

Chuck Race

518-917-3547

Ted Fiebke

518-794-7799

* Council Officers

Committees

Property

Jose Roman & Larry Eleby

Stewardship & Finance

Ken Schomaker, Linda Dickson, Tim McGlauflin

Outreach

Beegee Roppolo (chair), Kara Udwary, Linda Dickson, Janis McGlauflin

TCLP

Karen Lasher & Beegee Roppolo

Safety and Security

Sharon Smith, Chuck Race

Music and Worship

Ted Fiebke, Janis McGlauflin, Kara Udwary

Parish Care

Janis McGlauflin

Education

Ethan Race

EMANUEL/ST. JOHN’S check back soon!

Contact -- Richard FitzGerald rfatbellspond@yahoo.com

ZION, ATHENS

Contact –- Gethen Proper gethen7@gmail.com

Council Members

President

William Darling

518-943-4293

Vice President

Tim Mercer

518-859-1356.

Treasurer

Bob O’Leary

845-797-6084

Financial Secretary

Nancy Clark

518-444-8096

Council & Church Secretary

Gethen Proper

518-755-8395

Carol Serazio 518-731-9050

Karen Schubert 518-731-1190

John Wais 518-719-5754

John Van Valkenburg 518-945-1184

The many outreach projects of Zion are made possible in large part by grants from Thrivent Financial Every Thrivent member is eligible to apply for 2 action team grants per year. These are easy to apply for, and if you need help please ask Carrol Mercer Or Christine Wanek. If you are not a Thrivent member, but would still like to help apply for a grant, you can become a Thrivent Associate Member.

Associate Membership is $19.95 and with that membership you are able to apply for a one-time Thrivent grant for $250.00 for our congregation’s outreach projects.

Contact Thrivent either by Phone @ 845-849-1267, or at Thrivent.com

Five Loaves Project -- MEALS FOR THE HUNGRY AND THOSE IN NEED Thursday’s @4:30 pm

ST. PAUL’S, OAK HILL check back soon!

Contact – Jackie Menagh jamspirit@hardsdisk.net

CHRIST OUR EMMANUEL, CHATHAM

Contact – Jeanette Wilber tam20kfw@aol.com

Church Council

President Jeanette Wilber

Vice President TBA

Recording Secretary TBA

Corresponding Secretary Heidi Brennan

Cate MacPherson

Richard Mac Donald (Mac)

Henry Bartel

Kurt Hoelter

Did you know there is a new way to send your offering? We have an online donation portal! Please visit our website at www.chathamLutheran.org to get started!

From Jeanette Wilber, Council President

To all,

I believe most of you already know, but wanted to get it to everyone, we will not be having our tag sale this year, the main reason is the Covid 19, not sure where we would stand with the regulation on tag sales. One of the other reasons is our concern about the help we would have with it. It is a fun time, we raise a good amount of money, but it also takes many hands to make it a success. Hopefully we can resume it next year if we can be assured we have enough help.

Wanted to let everyone know that Patty Bervy broke her leg couple of weeks ago. Patty always does a good job at whatever she does and she did a good job on her leg, broke it in a couple of places, she had surgery and is recovering at home. Fortunately for Patty, her daughter Erica has been at home while her husband John, who is in the Navy, is out to sea for a few months. Erica has become Patty’s private duty nurse. I hear she is doing a wonderful job. I am sure Patty would love to hear from you, her address is: Patty Bervy 551 Frisbee Street East Chatham 12060. Keep Patty in your prayers.

Will be getting back to you soon as to when we can resume services at Church. We need to assure we can follow the guidelines set up by our insurance company and Synod. Please keep up your weekly contribution, we rely on that to keep the home fires burning and bills paid. If you have not been attending church regularly, a donation would be greatly appreciated.

Ok guys, that is all for now, will get back to you soon. Stay well and safe.
God bless,
Jeanette
Council President

ST. STEPHENS, E. SCHODACK

Contact -- Alice Senrick asenrick29@gmail.com

or 518-479-0819; or 518-852-1504.

CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS

Alice Senrick, President

asenrick29@gmail.com

518-852-1504

Charles Senrick, Treasurer (Non-voting member)

Brian Schell, Vice President

Cathy Teeter, Secretary

Deborah Deerfield

Diane Middleton

Charles Mayrer

TRINITY, CASTLETON

Contact – Nicole Gardner scullynik@yahoo.com

Financial Secretary Needed

Wondering how you can help your church. A Financial Secretary is needed. Training is available. if interested please see Rik Cosgrave or anyone on the council.

Readings and Psalm for BOLD WOMEN’S SUNDAY 6/28/20

Judges 4:4-10

Psalm 138

Acts 16:13-15

Mark 7:24-30

What would you like to see in “The Parish Connection?” Drop me a line at the TCLP office at ssmith@tclparish.org or call 518-758-6526.

OFFICE HOURS: 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Call any time!

If you have questions regarding the Tri County Lutheran Parish or for any other church issues or pastoral concerns, please call Sharon at 518-758-6526

CONTACT US:

Tri-County Lutheran Parish, PO Box 158, Valatie, NY 12184 (518) 758-6526

Pastor Samantha Perret (Parish)

Phone – 518-229-4128

E-mail – whiteginger20@gmail.com

Pastor Dan Hahn, (Transitional)

Phone – 518-281-8127

E-mail -- pastordanhahn@gmail.com

Sharon Smith (TCLP Secretary)

Office – 518-758-6526

Cell -- 518-929-9765

E-mail –stlukes@slelc.com.

CHATHAM WEBSITE: www.chathamlutheran.org

VALATIE/STUYVESANT FALLS PARISH WEBSITE: www.slelc.com

TCLP WEBSITE: www.tclparish.org

Parish Connection June 11, 2020

June 24, 2020 Ethan Race

THE PARISH CONNECTION

Greetings!

With Summer soon upon us, I have dusted off my Little House on the Prairie book series. Most years, I re-read the entire series between July through September and I have done this since I was a teenager. There is something comforting in the cadence of the words and the relationships between characters. There is an escapism to what seems like a “simpler time.”

I confess to have a highly romanticized version of the past as presented in these books. It is so easy to focus on the Ingalls family Christmas dinners, the simple Independence Day celebrations and winning the spelling bee.

At the same time, it is easy to overlook the hardships of the Long Winter, when the Ingalls family very nearly froze and starved to death, or the tornados/locusts/wildfires/famines/sicknesses that intermittently plagued the family

But I think we all have that nostalgia for the “good old days.” How often do we look with positivity on our own childhoods and ignore the painful parts? With fondness, I remember summer evenings sitting in the lawn reading books with my mother and grandmother, eating watermelon and catching fireflies. I have to focus more intently to recall the loneliness I felt every summer, as there were no other kids nearby and my mother didn’t drive and I couldn’t wait for school to begin.

For self-preservation, it is understandable why we choose to focus on those polished and positive memories and tend to forget the hardships when we think about “the Good Old Days.” Every time I re-read the Little House Series I am sharply reminded that the pioneer life was more than Sunday suppers and school exhibitions. I always finish the series with a sense of awe of all the family struggles they endured. Perhaps that’s why I feel pulled to read it over and over. To recall their perseverance, their sense of community and faith in God that saw them through the roughest of conditions.

In my daughter’s class, the teacher asked the kids to keep a journal documenting how they were spending their days while learning from home. This makes me wonder how people 50 years in the future will look back on us and how we lived during this time in history. What will they see?

They will see people struggling to maintain businesses and school while working and studying from home. They will see people struggling with infringements on their freedom to move about as they please. They will see people demonstrating on the streets for racial justice. They will see people from both sides of the political aisle volleying back and forth.

Perhaps with the gift of hindsight, fifty years from now, they can appreciate how we too are persevering in the face of discord and pandemic. They might see how we are working together to maintain our sense of community. Hopefully, they will see how we are continuing to be the people of God, loving and serving our neighbor, caring for the poor, and working for justice for all people.

Peace and blessings,

Pastor Sam

News and Information

Attached is Bishop Eaton’s sermon from last week, a bulletin for next week and a packet of devotions and prayers. Please note that the Tri-County Lutheran Parish will be following the advice of the bishop, the governor and qualified medical personnel - which means we will be continuing to worship from home at least until July 11th. Meanwhile, we will be working on a safe re-entry plan for when we can assemble in our church buildings once more.

If you wish to worship remotely with us please use this phone number:

1. Dial 1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

2. Enter Meeting ID: 770 099 7419, then press #

3. If the meeting has not already started Press # to wait.

4. You will be prompted to enter your unique participant ID. Press # to skip.

If you have internet ability to join us through Zoom, here is the link: https://zoom.us/j/77009974 1 9

Worship service videos can be found on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8kJUJTm_PrA-l1qlv8PJ-g

If you would like to serve as a reader during online worship, please let me know! If you would like to serve as an assistant (and read the congregation parts), please let me know!

If you would like to donate food, contact me and we will set up a pick-up/drop-off time as each week we support a local food pantry within our parish. This week we are supporting the Greenville Food Pantry. Please consider donating to this very worthwhile cause!!

Anti-Racism Book Recommendations:

Here are five books that I recommend to help understand the historical roots of racism, the way it has embedded into our national systems and what we can do about it. I present them here in no particular order:

“I’m Still Here: Black Dignity In a World Made For Whiteness” by Austin Channing Brown - I read this book last year and it has made a huge impact on my life. The author shares personal accounts of racism from her life.

“White Like Me” by Tim Wise - I am still in the process of listening to this book on Audible. This book is an accessible book for those new to the study of white fragility.

“The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration In the Age of Colorblindness” by Michelle Alexander - This book is a deeper look into the legal and systemic ways in which this country has kept racism alive and active (focusing on socio-economic issues and crime/punishment).

“Waking Up White: And Finding Myself In The Story of Race” by Debby Irving - I confess that I have not read this one, but it comes highly recommended from other pastors as a primer in understanding how racism looks today.

“How To Be An Antiracist” by Ibram X. Kendi- I am currently reading this and Kendi gives a fascinating history about the creation of racial hierarchy and his own journey as a person of color who once supported racist ideas.

Bonus book: “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah - I am considering this a “bonus book” because while it does discuss racism it is against the backdrop of South African Apartheid, though the author does make comparisons to racism in America. I am listening to this on Audible and I find it entertaining as well as interesting. I will label this one with a profanity warning, though not excessive

The Tri-County Lutheran Parish has been blessed by the ministry of Paul Strike. We are grateful for his presence, his preaching, teaching and visiting, especially with Bible Study and Confirmation. We wish Paul well as he prepares for his upcoming June wedding to his fiancé, Logan, and move to Hickory, North Carolina where Logan will being her internship.

If you wish to send him a card, here is the mailing address you should use:

Paul Strike

2211 Green Valley Drive

Billings, MT 59102

https://www.gathermagazine.org/winter-2020-we-are-called-by-kathryn-a-kleinhans/

If Camp of the Woods remains closed for this year, all deposits that were given for the Sept 2020 retreat will be transferred to next year (Same time in Sept. 2021).

For more information, contact Barbara Slater at 518-392-7798.

TCLP Board for 2020

Harry Avery – President

Jackie Menagh – Vice Chair

Duane Keeler – Recording Secretary

Chuck Race -- Treasurer

Congregation ANNOUNCEMENTS

In-person worship has been cancelled until 7/11/20

EMANUEL, STUYVESANT FALLS

Contact -- Duane Keeler oneservantofgod@gmail.com

COUNCIL:

Karen Albertson Term Expires 2021

Harry Avery Term Expires 2021

Linda Frick Term Expires 2022 Co-Treasurer

Duane Keeler Term Expires 2022 President

Leslie Dumont Term Expires 2023 Vice-President

Pr. Sam N/A Ex Officio member

Chuck Albertson Secretary Not on council

Dick Frick Co-Treasurer Not on council

OUTREACH COMMITTEE (Joint committee with St. Luke’s)

Teresa Avery

Karen Albertson

Phyllis Keeler

WORSHIP COMMITTEE (Joint committee with St. Luke’s)

Phyllis Keeler

PARISH SPECIAL WORSHIP SERVICES TEAM

Karen Albertson

Duane Keeler (Chair)

ST. LUKE’S, VALATIE

Contact -- Kara Udwary Karap1969@aol.com

St. Luke’s Council Members

Ethan Race

518-209-7829

Tim McGlauflin

518-756-4644

*Kara Udwary (President)

518-821-0437

Karap1969@aol.com

*Ken Schomaker (Treasurer)

518-758-1246

*Linda Dickson

(Financial Secretary)

518-610-8056

Mike Schunk

518-610-8201

Janis McGlauflin

518-828-1857

Jose Roman

518-354-0892

Barbara Slater

(Corresponding Secretary)

518-392-7798

Not on Council

Larry Eleby

518-929-1432

Sharon Smith

518-929-9765

Karen Lasher

518-784-2032

Beegee Roppolo

518-320-6232

Sharon Smith

518-929-9765

Chuck Race

518-917-3547

Ted Fiebke

518-794-7799

* Council Officers

Committees

Property

Jose Roman & Larry Eleby

Stewardship & Finance

Ken Schomaker, Linda Dickson, Tim McGlauflin

Outreach

Beegee Roppolo (chair), Kara Udwary, Linda Dickson, Janis McGlauflin

TCLP

Karen Lasher & Beegee Roppolo

Safety and Security

Sharon Smith, Chuck Race

Music and Worship

Ted Fiebke, Janis McGlauflin, Kara Udwary

Parish Care

Karen Lasher

Education

Ethan Race

EMANUEL/ST. JOHN’S check back soon!

Contact -- Richard FitzGerald rfatbellspond@yahoo.com

ZION, ATHENS

Contact –- Gethen Proper gethen7@gmail.com

Council Members

President

William Darling

518-943-4293

Vice President

Tim Mercer

518-859-1356.

Treasurer

Bob O’Leary

845-797-6084

Financial Secretary

Nancy Clark

518-444-8096

Council & Church Secretary

Gethen Proper

518-755-8395

Carol Serazio

518-731-9050

Karen Schubert

518-731-1190

John Wais

518-719-5754

John Van Valkenburg

518-945-1184

Associate Membership is $19.95 and with that membership you are able to apply for a one-time Thrivent grant for $250.00 for our congregation’s outreach projects.

Contact Thrivent either by Phone @ 845-849-1267, or at Thrivent.com

Five Loaves Project -- MEALS FOR THE HUNGRY AND THOSE IN NEED Thursday’s @4:30 pm

ST. PAUL’S, OAK HILL check back soon!

Contact – Jackie Menagh jamspirit@hardsdisk.net

CHRIST OUR EMMANUEL, CHATHAM

Contact – Jeanette Wilber tam20kfw@aol.com

Church Council

President Jeanette Wilber

Vice President TBA

Recording Secretary TBA

Corresponding Secretary Heidi Brennan

Cate MacPherson

Richard Mac Donald (Mac)

Henry Bartel

Kurt Hoelter

Did you know there is a new way to send your offering? We have an online donation portal! Please visit our website at www.chathamLutheran.org to get started!

ST. STEPHENS, E. SCHODACK

Contact -- Alice Senrick asenrick29@gmail.com

or 518-479-0819; or 518-852-1504.

CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS

Alice Senrick, President

asenrick29@gmail.com

518-852-1504

Charles Senrick, Treasurer (Non-voting member)

Brian Schell, Vice President

Cathy Teeter, Secretary

Deborah Deerfield

Diane Middleton

Charles Mayrer

TRINITY, CASTLETON

Contact – Nicole Gardner scullynik@yahoo.com

Financial Secretary Needed

Wondering how you can help your church. A Financial Secretary is needed. Training is available. if interested please see Rik Cosgrave or anyone on the council.

Second Sunday after Pentecost

Moses tells the Israelites that they are called to be a priestly kingdom and a holy people. Jesus sends out the disciples as laborers into the harvest. In baptism we too are anointed for ministry, sharing God’s compassion with our needy world. From the Lord’s table we go forth to proclaim the good news, to heal the sick, and to share our bread with the hungry.

Readings and Psalm

Exodus 19:2-8a

The covenant with Israel at Sinai

Psalm 100

We are God’s people and the sheep of God’s pasture. (Ps. 100:3)

Romans 5:1-8

While we were sinners, Christ died for us

Matthew 9:35--10:8 [9-23]

The sending of the Twelve

What would you like to see in “The Parish Connection?” Drop me a line at the TCLP office at ssmith@tclparish.org or call 518-758-6526.

OFFICE HOURS: 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Call any time!

If you have questions regarding the Tri County Lutheran Parish or for any other church issues or pastoral concerns, please call Sharon at 518-758-6526

CONTACT US:

Tri-County Lutheran Parish, PO Box 158, Valatie, NY 12184 (518) 758-6526

Pastor Samantha Perret (Parish)

Phone – 518-229-4128

E-mail – whiteginger20@gmail.com

Pastor Dan Hahn, (Transitional)

Phone – 518-281-8127

E-mail -- pastordanhahn@gmail.com

Sharon Smith (TCLP Secretary)

Office – 518-758-6526

Cell -- 518-929-9765

E-mail –stlukes@slelc.com.

CHATHAM WEBSITE: www.chathamlutheran.org

VALATIE/STUYVESANT FALLS PARISH WEBSITE: www.slelc.com

TCLP WEBSITE: www.tclparish.org

Parish Connection May 27, 2020

May 28, 2020 Ethan Race

May 27, 2020

Greetings!

I am writing to you from my mobile office (today that would be the deck of the parsonage since it is a lovely day!) I can hear the birds singing and the small critters rustling through the trees. The air is the perfect temperature at this time of the morning, not too humid and with a light breeze. It is almost too easy to forget the unpleasantness that can be found in the world when I am here at home.

Perhaps like many of you, I have been doing some Spring cleanup in the yard. We are blessed to have a fine selection of beautiful plants already long established. There is a bed of irises, a peony bush, lilacs, azaleas, rhododendron and a whole lot of mystery plants.

I was happily gardening yesterday, ungloved hands in the dirt and satisfying myself by pulling out weeds and getting to know what exactly is planted. As I was mindlessly grabbing a clump of weeds, my happy reverie abruptly came to an end. Thorns. Now, it is my firm belief that there is no plant pretty enough to warrant thorns. (I apologize to all rose growers!)

There was nothing to be done except to address the thorny plants (which I do believe were not anything other than weeds). I had to carefully and intentionally remove them, without hurting myself or the other plants around them. These thorns were a good reminder that it is never a good idea to either ignore unpleasant things in our lives or angrily attack without consideration of the circumstances. Often the roots of these brambles run beneath good and innocent plants and pulling them will upset the innocent plants. Calmly and carefully assessing the entire situation is the best way to approach thorny patches.

“The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:15) This lesson is often the example given when we discuss our calling to be good stewards of creation and is often taken quite literally. But we can apply a broader interpretation as well and still be theologically accurate. God placed humankind in the garden to care for it. We are placed in the world to do the same. That includes tending what is healthy, pruning to bear more fruit and carefully removing “thorny patches” (harmful situations) and bringing healing to the land.

As we go about our “gardens” we must be mindful of the thorny patches. We should exercise care in dealing with them so we do not cause additional harm. Addressing thorny patches is not enjoyable or glamorous work. It is time consuming and requires extra work. But we cannot simply ignore the thorny patches in our lives. It is necessary to address them to stay true to our calling to “till and keep it.”

Blessings and peace,

Pastor Sam

News and Information

Attached in this packet is my sermon from last week, a bulletin for next week and a packet of devotions and prayers. Please note that the Tri-County Lutheran Parish will be following the advice of the bishop, the governor and qualified medical personnel - which means we will be continuing to worship from home at least until June 30th. Meanwhile, we will be working on a safe re-entry plan for when we can assemble in our church buildings once more.

If you wish to worship remotely with us, please use this phone number:

1. Dial 1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

2. Enter Meeting ID: 770 099 7419, then press #

3. If the meeting has not already started Press # to wait.

4. You will be prompted to enter your unique participant ID. Press # to skip.

If you have internet ability to join us through Zoom, here is the link: https://zoom.us/j/770099741 9

Worship service videos can be found on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8kJUJTm_PrA-l1qlv8PJ-g

If you would like to serve as a reader during online worship, please let me know! If you would like to serve as an assistant (and read the congregation parts), please let me know!

If you would like to donate food, contact me and we will set up a pick-up/drop-off time as each week we support a local food pantry within our parish. This week we are still supporting the Hudson Food Pantry. Please consider donating to this very worthwhile cause!!

Farewell, Father Chatham

Freddie Friedel was in the original class of Conference Deacons and was well known throughout Columbia County. Most recently, he would regale me with his entertaining stories when I visited Barnwell. -Pastor Sam

(from the Chatham Fire Department Facebook page, May 25, 2020)

“Father Chatham”

80 year old, Freddie Friedel, affectionately known as “Father Chatham”, has written his last chapter about the history of Chatham. Freddie has fallen victim to an untimely disease as we lose another lifetime member. Freddie was one of Columbia County’s first EMT’s - while for twenty years he was a First Aid Instructor having trained at Dutchess Community College. In the early sixties, the Chatham Fire Department and Chatham Rescue were under the same umbrella and Freddie was a Department Chief. He was employed by the U.S. Postal Service for 30 years and the manger of the Crandall Theater for 20! Freddie always had time to talk to you and treated everyone with respect and dignity, especially on his postal route. Freddie, history will not soon forget you, as your contributions to our community were invaluable. Rest In Peace Freddie, you will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

+ + + + +

If you wish to send him a card, here is the mailing address you should use:

Paul Strike

2211 Green Valley Drive

Billings, MT 59102

https://www.gathermagazine.org/winter-2020-we-are-called-by-kathryn-a-kleinhans/

If Camp of the Woods remains closed for this year, all deposits that were given for the Sept 2020 retreat will be transferred to next year (Same time in Sept. 2021).

For more information, contact Barbara Slater at 518-392-7798.

TCLP Board for 2020

Harry Avery – President

Jackie Menagh – Vice Chair

Duane Keeler – Recording Secretary

Chuck Race -- Treasurer

Congregation ANNOUNCEMENTS

In-person worship has been cancelled until 6/30/20

EMANUEL, STUYVESANT FALLS

Contact -- Duane Keeler oneservantofgod@gmail.com

COUNCIL:

Karen Albertson Term Expires 2021

Harry Avery Term Expires 2021

Linda Frick Term Expires 2022 Co-Treasurer

Duane Keeler Term Expires 2022 President

Leslie Dumont Term Expires 2023 Vice-President

Pr. Sam N/A Ex Officio member

Chuck Albertson Secretary Not on council

Dick Frick Co-Treasurer Not on council

OUTREACH COMMITTEE (Joint committee with St. Luke’s)

Teresa Avery

Karen Albertson

Phyllis Keeler

WORSHIP COMMITTEE (Joint committee with St. Luke’s)

Phyllis Keeler

PARISH SPECIAL WORSHIP SERVICES TEAM

Karen Albertson

Duane Keeler (Chair)

ST. LUKE’S, VALATIE

Contact -- Kara Udwary Karap1969@aol.com

St. Luke’s Council Members

Ethan Race

518-209-7829

——

Tim McGlauflin

518-756-4644

——

*Kara Udwary (President)

518-821-0437

Karap1969@aol.com

——

*Ken Schomaker (Treasurer)

518-758-1246

——

*Linda Dickson

(Financial Secretary)

518-610-8056

——

Mike Schunk

518-610-8201

Janis McGlauflin

518-828-1857

——

Jose Roman

518-354-0892

——

Barbara Slater

(Corresponding Secretary)

518-392-7798

Not on Council

Larry Eleby

518-929-1432

——

Sharon Smith

518-929-9765

——

Karen Lasher

518-784-2032

——

Beegee Roppolo

518-320-6232

——

Sharon Smith

518-929-9765

——

Chuck Race

518-917-3547

——

Ted Fiebke

518-794-7799

* Council Officers

Committees

Property

Jose Roman & Larry Eleby

Stewardship & Finance

Ken Schomaker, Linda Dickson, Tim McGlauflin

Outreach

Beegee Roppolo (chair), Kara Udwary, Linda Dickson, Janis McGlauflin

TCLP

Karen Lasher & Beegee Roppolo

Safety and Security

Sharon Smith, Chuck Race

Music and Worship

Ted Fiebke, Janis McGlauflin, Kara Udwary

Parish Care

Karen Lasher

Education

Ethan Race

EMANUEL/ST. JOHN’S check back soon!

Contact -- Richard FitzGerald rfatbellspond@yahoo.com

ZION, ATHENS

Contact –- Gethen Proper gethen7@gmail.com

Council Members

President

William Darling

518-943-4293

Vice President

Tim Mercer

518-859-1356.

Treasurer

Bob O’Leary

845-797-6084

Financial Secretary

Nancy Clark

518-444-8096

Council & Church Secretary

Gethen Proper

518-755-8395

Carol Serazio

518-731-9050

——

Karen Schubert

518-731-1190

John Wais

518-719-5754

——

John Van Valkenburg

518-945-1184

Associate Membership is $19.95 and with that membership you are able to apply for a one-time Thrivent grant for $250.00 for our congregation’s outreach projects.

Contact Thrivent either by Phone @ 845-849-1267, or at Thrivent.com

Five Loaves Project -- MEALS FOR THE HUNGRY AND THOSE IN NEED Thursday’s @4:30 pm

ST. PAUL’S, OAK HILL check back soon!

Contact – Jackie Menagh jamspirit@hardsdisk.net

CHRIST OUR EMMANUEL, CHATHAM

Contact – Jeanette Wilber tam20kfw@aol.com

Church Council

President

Jeanette Wilber

Vice President

TBA

Recording Secretary

TBA

Corresponding Secretary

Heidi Brennan

Cate MacPherson

Richard Mac Donald (Mac)

Henry Bartel

Kurt Hoelter

Did you know there is a new way to send your offering? We have an online donation portal! Please visit our website at www.chathamLutheran.org to get started!

ST. STEPHENS, E. SCHODACK

Contact -- Alice Senrick asenrick29@gmail.com

or 518-479-0819; or 518-852-1504.

CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS

Alice Senrick, President

asenrick29@gmail.com

518-852-1504

——

Charles Senrick, Treasurer

(Non-voting member)

——

Brian Schell, Vice President

——

Cathy Teeter, Secretary

——

Deborah Deerfield

——

Diane Middleton

——

Charles Mayrer

TRINITY, CASTLETON

Contact – Nicole Gardner scullynik@yahoo.com

Financial Secretary Needed

Wondering how you can help your church. A Financial Secretary is needed. Training is available. if interested please see Rik Cosgrave or anyone on the council.

Pentecost Sunday

Pentecost derives its name from the Jewish festival celebrating the harvest and the giving of the law on Mount Sinai fifty days after Passover. Fifty days after Easter, we celebrate the Holy Spirit as God’s presence within and among us. In Acts the Spirit arrives in rushing wind and flame, bringing God’s presence to all people. Paul reminds us that though we each have different capacities, we are unified in the Spirit that equips us with these gifts. Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit on his disciples, empowering them to forgive sin. We celebrate that we too are given the breath of the Holy Spirit and sent out to proclaim God’s redeeming love to all the world.

Readings and Psalm

Acts 2:1-21

Filled with the Spirit to tell God’s deeds

Numbers 11:24-30 (alternate)

The Spirit comes upon the elders of Israel

Psalm 104:24-34, 35b

Send forth your Spirit and renew the face of the earth. (Ps. 104:30)

1 Corinthians 12:3b-13

Varieties of gifts from the same Spirit

Acts 2:1-21 (alternate)

Filled with the Spirit to tell God’s deeds

John 20:19-23

The Spirit poured out

John 7:37-39 (alternate)

The Spirit will provide living water

What would you like to see in “The Parish Connection?” Drop me a line at the TCLP office at ssmith@tclparish.org or call 518-758-6526.

OFFICE HOURS: 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Call any time!

If you have questions regarding the Tri County Lutheran Parish or for any other church issues or pastoral concerns, please call Sharon at 518-758-6526

CONTACT US:

Tri-County Lutheran Parish, PO Box 158, Valatie, NY 12184 (518) 758-6526

Pastor Samantha Perret (Parish)

Phone – 518-229-4128

E-mail – whiteginger20@gmail.com

Pastor Dan Hahn, (Transitional)

Phone – 518-281-8127

E-mail -- pastordanhahn@gmail.com

Sharon Smith (TCLP Secretary)

Office – 518-758-6526

Cell -- 518-929-9765

E-mail –stlukes@slelc.com.