July 2013 Newsletter, Peace Lutheran Church

7/28/2019 July 2013 Newsletter, Peace Lutheran Church

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By now, all y’all have probably figured out I am a lover of story. Telling

stories, reading stories, even writing stories; I love stories. I think they are an

excellent way of communicating truths and engaging our imaginations. And so

this morning is no exception. I want to tell you the story of what happened to a

friend of mine. It a story about his trip home upon the death of his mother and

what happened while he was in Ohio, in July of 2003. It is a story that involves a

cup of coffee, a duck, and a toothless old man. I tell this story from a first per-son perspective — I find it easier to get into the story that way. Let us begin.

On the Tuesday following my mother's death, there was the usual flurry

of activity -- people to call, arrangements with the funeral director, planning the

service with the pastor, and time with family just remembering. Things went

well, by the grace of God.

I was staying in a motel in Troy, Ohio, only minutes from the hospital

Mom had been in. I had been to Troy, but hadn't ever really seen this beautiful

little city. So, after all was done, and I had said good-bye to my sisters and their

families, I decided that rather than go back and sit in the motel alone to await

my family's arrival the next day, I would just drive around and look at Troy.But, there was something I had to have first -- a cup of coffee to take

with me. Right next door to the motel was a little restaurant called Crazy H's. To

put the best light on it, we could call it "unassuming." It is the kind of restaurant

where you always check your silverware and plates to make sure that they've

been washed -- you know the kind I mean.

I walked in and went up to the counter, where I was waited on by a

smallish woman with rather sunken features. "Hard Life" was written in the

deep lines that etched her face. She was probably in her forties, but could easily

have passed for sixty. "May I have a cup of coffee to go, please?" I asked.

"Sure," she replied. After hunting for a cup and lid, she poured the coffee and

handed it to me as I handed her my money. "Ah," she said, "forget about it. Just

do something nice for someone."

She said that with a warm smile that overcame the deep lines in her face.

I thanked her and left. As I drove away, I sipped the coffee. I want to tell you, it

was the best cup of coffee I've ever had. It wasn't because of the taste. It wasn't

because I got a freebie. It was because the coffee had the flavor of grace in it.

Maybe if this had happened on any day other than one so filled with

emotion and meaning for me, I might not have tasted the grace. But that day, I

Passing the Peace

P e a c e L u t h e r a n C h u r c h

1 6 9 9 b e l v i d e r e D r , E l P a s o , T X 7 9 9 1 2 July 2013

Volume 2, Issue 7

Are We There Yet? Thoughts Along the Way by PJ

(Continued on next page)



did. I was truly moved, and I savored that coffee, sip by sip, as I rode around Troy viewing the city and thinking

about Mom. I really wanted to find someone to be nice to, but since I didn't know anyone in Troy, I had no idea

how that would happen. So, all by myself, I savored this cup of coffee, flavored with grace.

Grace is always undeserved. Grace is always a surprise. Grace is always one other thing, too. It is always

something that has the power to transform us into persons we could not otherwise be. When that waitress said,

"Just do something nice for someone," she transformed me into a person who truly wanted to touch someoneelse's life with an undeserved and unexpected measure of grace. But alas, I saw no one else that night.

The next day, there was practically nothing to do but wait for Thursday's funeral service. My family had

left Harleysville and was on its way to Ohio. I decided that this was a good time to drive to my hometown, Urba-

na, and immerse myself in memories of Mom and Dad and friends and experiences that had shaped me. I was still

thinking about that waitress' kindness as I drove the 45 minutes from Troy to Urbana.

My first stop was the city park -- a place I just love. There is a big pond there with a tree-filled island in the

middle and dozens of waterfowl -- three or four swans, many Canadian geese, and dozens of Mallard ducks -- all

swimming peacefully. It was a good place to begin my memory tour.

As I watched all those birds float gracefully on the pond, I suddenly became aware of a flurry of activity

about a quarter of the way around the pond. I couldn't see clearly what was happening, except that about a dozenducks seemed to keep flying hard into another duck. I noticed that duck wasn't moving -- just flapping its wings

frantically. What could this be?

I began to walk over to that place and, as I drew closer, I noticed that the unmoving duck had its beak

straight up in the air. Closer in, I could tell it was hooked on something. Closer still, and I could see that it was

hooked on a fishing hook and the line was snagged in a tree. The duck was truly stuck and the others, with all their

bashing and bumping, were trying to free it. But, the duck was caught.

I looked around, realized I was the only person in the park, and wondered what to do. I didn't have a knife

and I didn't have a clue how to free the duck. It was awful to see. I bent near the spot where the captive and its

friends were and tried to speak comfortingly to the terrified duck. I wanted so much to free it, but I couldn't. All I

could do was try to soothe it."She's in a fix, eh?" The words from behind me startled me. I was sure I was alone, but suddenly there was

this toothless old man in a kind of golf cart. I have no idea how I could have not heard him approach.

"Well," he said, "let's see if we can help." He had a knife and, remarkably, he had a small pair of wire cut-

ters on his belt. Together we tenderly pulled the duck from the water and he cut the line and then removed the

hook from the duck's bill. Even more tenderly, he placed her back in the water and she swam off, surrounded by

the other ducks, to the far side of the pond.

"Hey," said the toothless old man, "that felt good, didn't it?" He laughed a bit as he watched the duck

swim away. Then he called off to that duck, "Hey, Mrs. Duck, you go on and do something nice for another duck,

okay?" My breath stuck in my throat.

As he started to drive off, I thanked him and he replied, "Oh, it's what I do. I work here."

I suddenly caught on. My experiences Tuesday night in Crazy H's and Wednesday morning at the park

pond were not two events, but one -- a story to comfort me and to teach me.

I had been approached by God in a hard-life-faced waitress and in a toothless old man.

I was as helpless against my mother's death as was the little duck against the fish hook. But that is when

God provides. In our weakness, God's power shows through. In our weakness we are met unexpectedly by God

who carries us through and saves us from our own powerlessness.

A cup of coffee, a duck, and a toothless old man. God was there. And now there is a certain duck and a

certain man who know better than before that we cannot save ourselves, but that we don't need to. "Oh, it's what

I do," says God. "I work here."



The Next WOWW Meeting will be on July 26th, 7pm at JannaCannady's house The group will be reading "7:An ExperimentalMutiny Against Excess" by Jen Hatmaker. At the July get-togetherthe Introduction and first three "months" of the book will be dis-cussed. Please bring a salad or dessert to share, and as always, yourfavorite beverage. All women of Peace Church, Peace Preschool andfriends are cordially invited.

July 11

5:30pm

Good Coffee

(original Jaxons)

All ladies and friends of Peace are invited to enjoy a meal

together — a nice way to socialize and get to know each

other better.

Do you like to go hiking? Do you know how to puttogether a resume? Do you like to knit or crochet? Play cards? Webdesign? Anything else? We, the people of Peace, have a wonderfulopportunity to support the servants of the Border Servant Corps inthe year to come. We have the opportunity to serve these blessingsfrom God as a support team by providing them with a warm wel-come, place of worship (if they so choose), and opportunities to be-friend them and help to make their stay in El Paso a wonderful ex-perience. Through the support team we will meet and greet the Bor-der Servants as they begin their time in El Paso, commission them in

their service on behalf of Border Servant Corps, serve as "resources"for them--befriend, invite, include them in activities within the com-

munity. For example: Do you like to go hiking? Set a date, or a standing date, and invite anyone who would wantto go with you to join you for the experience. Do you know how to put together a resume? Put together a "mini-seminar" day and facilitate the learning experience for the Border Servants. Whatever it is that you like to do,more than likely you are not alone in that "like."

Please take the time to pray about this ministry opportunity. If the Spirit moves you to participate thenplease provide the information requested to the office so that we can make it available to the Border Servants forthe year as we seek to serve them as they serve the community of El Paso.

((Continued on next page)

An Opportunity

with the BSC



Border Servant Corp Upcoming Events

Become a Resource for 2013-2014 BSC Service YearPlease consider using your gifts to support the volunteers during their year of service on the borderland,

please send the following information to the Peace Lutheran Church office: Your name and contact information, with a photo of yourself

Interests and community involvementBSC tenet that most draws you at this time (community, simplicity, social justice, spirituality)

Example One: My simplicity practice is thrifty shopping; I really enjoy looking for creative waysto be a good steward of my resources!

Use for BSC: On a $100 per month food budget, this skill would be greatly appreciated.Example Two: My spirituality practice is hiking; nature helps me to step out of my everyday lifein the city and see God in simple ways.

Use for BSC: Invite volunteers to contact you to join you on a hike.Example Three: My community practice is spending time in coffee shops; I enjoy the wayspeople can commune around food and drink.

Use for BSC: Offer volunteers the opportunity to contact you if they would like to go

to coffee to get out of the house, meet someone new, process their time on the border-land, etc.

Katia Krassin will be entering 3rd grade in the fall. She was most proud of her awardfor Outstanding Achievement in Math & Science and a ribbon she received from herGT instructor stating that "Katia had many wonderful and creative ideas to share withher peers."

Max Krassin had an evaluation done by EPISD to determine if he will have to be placed in a spe-

cial needs classroom once he begins school due to the fact that he developed mild cerebral palsy

from being in cardiac arrest for so long. He was observed by 6 people who included therapists, a

diagnostician, and an instructor and they all determined that Max does not qualify for special

needs. They all felt that Max is highly functional, intelligent and would benefit from being in a reg-

ular classroom with peers of his age group. We are so thankful & proud of Max's accomplishments

considering his rough beginning in life.

Austin Ferguson graduated from Franklin High School and will be attending El Paso Community

College this fall. Congratulations!!!

Congratulations

2013-2014 BSC Orientation Potlucks in El Paso Welcome the 2013-2014 BSC volunteers during their first week of orientation!

Monday, August 19th at 6pm at Casa de Paz (1003 Upson Dr.)

2013-2014 BSC CommissioningParticipate in blessing the 2013-2014 BSC volunteers as they begin their year of service.

Sunday, September 8th at 9am at Peace, El Paso

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CALLING ALL CONFIRMATION STUDENTS & THEIR FAMILIES

This is an announcement for all of the confirmation age (grades 6-8)youth and their families! On August 18th, after worship, we will have aninformational and organizational meeting for any and all confirmation youth andtheir families. You will not want to miss this meeting as there are changes to theprogram for this year. In the meeting we will go over those and make sureeveryone understands what is expected of them, myself included. Please plan onmaking it to this important meeting on August 18th immediately following worship. Thank you.

This is a painting painted by Mary Witty that was dis-

played in the Create-Art Exhibit on June 2, 2013.

W a y t o g o M a r y ! ! ! !

Larue Duckett won a CAPPY, which is like a

TONY award for

High School. She

received it for her

role as Hard Heart-

ed Hannah, the Car.

Larue will continue

with the drama club

at Coronado this

summer.

Sydney Hundt - Graduated from

Kindergarten at Peace Lutheran on

June 8th. She will be going to Peace

Lutheran Preschool this summer and

taking piano lessons.

Abigail Hundt - Received a certificate for"Most Improved Handwriting" and was onthe Honor Roll at Tippen Elementary School for 2nd grade. Abby will be attend-ing Peace Lutheran Daycare this summerand taking piano lessons. She will be at-

tending 3rd grade at Tippen this fall.

Logann Atkinson will be goingto the second grade this fall at

Polk. She is with her GrandmMargaret on a month’s vaca

tion trip to Ireland.



A Place at the Table

One benefit of using your newsletter This past May at the Synod Assembly, inone of my breakout sessions I was privileged to view the movie, “A Place at the Ta-

ble.” Below is a synopsis of the movie from the films website. About The Film:

50 million people in the U.S.-one in four children-don’t know where theirnext meal is coming from, despite our having the means to provide nutritious, affordablefood for all Americans. Directors Kristi Jacobson and Lori Silverbush examine this issuethrough the lens of three people who are struggling with food insecurity: Barbie, a singlePhiladelphia mother who grew up in poverty and is trying to provide a better life for hertwo kids; Rosie, a Colorado fifth-grader who often has to depend on friends and neigh-bors to feed her and has trouble concentrating in school; and Tremonica, a Mississippisecond-grader whose asthma and health issues are exacerbated by the largely empty calo-ries her hardworking mother can afford.

Their stories are interwoven with insights from experts including sociologist Ja-net Poppendieck, author Raj Patel and nutrition policy leader Marion Nestle; ordinary citizens like Pastor Bob Wilson and teachers Leslie Nichols and Odessa Cherry; and ac-tivists such as Witness to Hunger’s Mariana Chilton, Top Chef’s Tom Colicchio and Os-car®-winning actor Jeff Bridges.

Ultimately, A Place at the Table shows us how hunger poses serious economic,social and cultural implications for our nation, and that it could be solved once and forall, if the American public decides-as they have in the past-that making healthy foodavailable and affordable is in the best interest of us all.- See more at: http://www.magpictures.com/aplaceatthetable/#sthash.7xKOPl79.dpuf

Needless to say this has been on my mind, on my heart, since I have seen it. If Ihave learned anything since arriving in El Paso, I have learned hunger is a major issue for

a lot of people: elderly, families, children, etc… Up till now, I have been speaking tomembers of Peace on a one to one basis about a vision I have, and think it is time Ishare it with all of you. So that you know, I have ordered a copy of this film, it becameavailable today, June 25th 2013 as I write this letter to all of you. We will watch and dis-cuss this film as part of our Faith Formation time this fall. As a primer, here is the visionI have:

I can see us adopting a local elementary school: Polk, Tippen, Lundy are thethree our preschool picks up from, and Guerrero is another near by elementary school.Perhaps we would consider adopting a school we know to be more economically chal-lenged? Either which way we decide to go on that matter, we would adopt the school.By way of adoption we would plant, maintain, and harvest fresh fruits and vegetables.

This garden or small farm could either be planted on the church property or perhaps wecould talk to our Preschool about using some of the land next to the building there. Ican see us planting in raised beds so that we can provide shade to the crops that needmore shade, water could trickle through from the top to the bottoms so that we con-serve the water used, the food grown would go to help keep kids and families fed in thecommunity, and who knows, perhaps even keep kids in school.

At this point, not to be too puny, this is a “seed planting” kind of article. Ithought it important to share with you what is burning in my heart and we will see whereGod takes it and perhaps, us as we discuss and learn about hunger in our community and what we can do to address it.

Thanks for reading. Peace, Pr. Jon

Forty-nine millionpeople in the U.S., which includes oneout of four children,don't know where

their next meal iscoming from.

http://www.magpictures.com/aplaceatthetable/#sthash.7xKOPl79.dpuf





Members’ Reflections on

“Christianity for the Rest of Us”

An old truth came alive in a new way… Diana’s words summarize it: are we tourists or pilgrims? Remem-

ber when Jesus heals the paralytic? “They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; but finding no way to bring him

in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof, and let him down with his bed through the tiles…” I think the men were pil-

grims – exploring new territory, believing Jesus could heal their friend, and striking out to try. The crowd might

have been tourists…maybe simply watching. They also observed a miracle, but was that the same? Observing or

being part of the miracle? Which experience is the one God has in mind for us?

I’ve spend a lot of my life being a tourist. Singing my favorite hymns stirs up my faith. Learning a bit

more through Bible Study helps steady the foundation of my faith. Knowing my offerings are used to help others

and spread God’s Word is an expression of my faith. .. a tourist…. a part of the crowd. In the story, the crowd

was actually in the way! Is that me?

In all the disciplines, there’s a way to be tourist; and a way to be a pilgrim. Do I simply smile and say a

quick hello to others; or do really listen, get to know, and support? Do I look for new truths, new ways, adjust tothe times and the place; or am I stuck in my old thoughts and habits? Do I stick to the tourist path, and only of-

fer simple words to show I’m a Christian; or do I venture down a new path, taking a chance, and share things

deeply personal? Am I just courteous, trying to do the Christian thing, hiding my discomfort with someone differ-

ent than me; or can I truly recognize that they too were made in His image?

I have a long way to go to become a pilgrim. Will you go with me? We’ll jump off the air conditioned

bus, and walk our way. Walk His way! A tourist gets only a glimpse of the world. As pilgrims, we’ll be fully im-

mersed in the beauty of His creation!

Fred Lenhart

I was reading some reviews for the book and the one that caught my attention was a negative review writ-

ten by a Pastor. Two things he said stood out to me. He says “the churches this author is talking about appar-

ently never have to worry about declining budgets or loss of membership.” He also says “I have no idea whether

or not implementing these 10 sign post practices will turn around a declining congregation to spiritual and numer-

ic growth.” Coming from a church that closed its doors because of both a “declining budget” and “loss of mem-

bership” taught me several things, but at first I struggled with the idea of feeling like we had failed in attempting

to do more to save the church, in other words just surrendering. But the reality in a situation like that is you

reach a point where there is no more you can do. You don’t let it get you down – you move on to find a new

church community such as we did here at Peace. Now Peace has had financial struggles and membership decline,

but we continue to move forward and together work towards finding solutions and ways to keep our church

community thriving. Maybe the author doesn’t point out struggles with budgets and membership decline in thechurch, but she does surely demonstrate examples of success and striving that the churches she visited have expe-

rienced. If anything her conversation with her audience through reading this book elicits some positive guidance

to members of churches and Pastors on how to take these examples and execute them in their church communi-

ty. The main thing I got out of being in a “book group” was fellowship. This experience allowed me the oppor-

tunity to get to know members of the church more closely. I think we had very positive discussions in our group

sessions and learned through our conversations that it is always important to maintain the principles of our faith

as we accept other people who may or may not have the same values or same beliefs. I’d like to quote Diana But-

ler Bass from p.79 “Hospitality is the creation of free space where strangers become friends. Hospitality is not to

change people but to offer them space where change can take place.”

Sandra Krassin



Reflections continued

In each of the positive "signposts", our group examined positive ways that Peace Lutheran Church prac-tices each discipline, but more importantly we brainstormed potential ways that we could improve in each catego-ry.

Moreover, our group summed up the rest of the book this way: The journey is about going from tourist to pilgrim (a tourist experiences something new; a pil-grim becomes something new). A PILGRIM embarks on a quest for some end that is considered SACRED.By focusing on the ten signposts, we can TRANSFORM individuals, congregations, andthe world.

Each member of our group grew together in spirit, intimacy, and in thinking about being better servantsto our church and to our community. It was a very positive experience.

Debbie and Hector Gutierrez

And Pastor Jon’s Comments

“Intimacy in relationships, growing in Spirit and in the Word, and Service to others.”— These were thetop three learning’s/themes to come out of our last large group celebration of Diana Butler Bass’s book, Chris-tianity for the Rest of Us. I, for one, found her writing, and our conversations surround her writing, to be quiteinspirational. I want to thank all of you for participating in the small groups: for sharing of yourselves and al-lowing yourselves to be vulnerable with one another, for your honest critiques of Peace and for offering sugges-tions as to how we can serve Christ to the fullest, for laughing with one another, listening and responding toeach other, for lifting up the light of hope and faith we all share and all desire to share. I want to thank you for

all these and so much more.I also want to let you know that as a result of our time spent in reading and conversation the Women of Wine and Word or WOWW has started, a men’s poker night is beginning, families have been asking me to helpthem research how they can be more involved in various ministries God is laying on their heart, plans are being made and steps are being taken to begin weekday/night bible study opportunities, and so much more.

Rest assured, I don’t want for this spring to have been a great exercise in small group discussion andleave the learning’s from these discussions on the way side. I will be following up on the information you haveshared with me, with one another, so that we can deepen our understanding of who God is calling us to be inthis time and for this community.

Thank you again for being the gifted people of faith that you are and for answering God’s calling!

Congregational BBQ CelebrationI know this is an exceptionally early announcement, and at the same

time, it can’t hurt to start telling folks now. On September 8 th we will have acongregational BBQ celebration! Why? Good question! The answer is quitesimple: so that we can spend time together in fellowship and fun! Look formore information coming up in the bulletins and subsequent newsletters andemails as to sign ups for what to bring. For now, just mark your calendars andput on your party hats — September 8 is going to be a great day! (FYI — no Sun-day Faith Formation that day, it will start the following Sunday)



Ryan Steinmetz (BSC director 2008-2013)Bids Farewell to BSC

It has been almost 12 years since I received a call from Dot Quaintance inviting me to join this group of committed, service-minded young people on the border. Thatcall was a life-changing call that so many people have come to this place to answer.

Since then, I have been involved with Border Servant Corps in varying capacities. As a BSC volunteer, I served as an English teacher and homework tutor at La Casa Do-

mestic Violence Shelter. I then served as a recruitment presenter, a board member, an Assistant Director underDick Schriver (for whom I am grateful for his mentorship over the years) and eventually Director. As I look back to that time in 2001 when I came down here to serve, I see how much the BSC has shaped me and shapedmy life’s direction. That’s what happens so often to BSC volunteers. They come down to change the world and wind up being changed themselves, touched by so many from this church and from the border community. Ican’t tell you how thankful I am to the congregation of Peace Lutheran for helping make this happen.

At a recent transition team cottage meeting, Grady McCullough talked with fervent passion about theneed for the church to “go beyond the walls” of the church structure. The people of God’s church need to bepresent in service to God’s world just as much as they need to come together in fellowship and worship on Sun-

day mornings. Your ministry, known as Border Servant Corps, answers that call. And we invite you to continueto be a part of this ministry, not only in the much appreciated donations of funds and donation items for our volunteers serving in the community, but also through participation on our board or volunteer support commit-tees, or through service opportunities through our Fellowship Through Service program in which members of this and other local congregations can connect with the many community organizations with whom BSC part-ners. We, again, are so appreciative for this opportunity that has brought over a hundred volunteers to serve thisregion; we hope to continue to provide meaningful ways to channel people’s gifts and service interests bringing people together in service for years to come.

As I leave my director’s position and pursue other endeavors, I remain an active member of Peace Lu-theran and a staunch supporter of Border Servant Corps’ mission in the community. I am honored to haveserved such a life-changing ministry, and I look forward to its continued journey in the hands of Kari Lenanderand its future leadership. Vayan con Dios.

Border Servant Corps Welcome Kari Lenander as Interim Director

Since 2008, I have had the pleasure of working and serving with Ryan Steinmetz (BSC director 2008-2013); first as a volunteer for two years, then as a program coordinator for Border Servant Corps. Ryan has beena wonderful example of servant leadership and I have been blessed to watch as he has been able to expand theministry and vision of Border Servant Corps, growing the capacity of the yearlong volunteer program and place-ment agencies, visioning and implementing a summer internship program, adding a border immersion program,and so much more. His commitment to this ministry and this region has been an inspiration and I am so thankfulfor the ways he has served, and will continue to serve. I wish him the best as he steps into his new role of servicein the region.

Before Border Servant Corps, I grew up in the Midwest and attended college at Augustana College inSioux Falls, SD where I received a degree in Business / Communications. During my BSC years, 2008-2010, Iserved as the Border Immersion program coordinator at Iglesia Luterana Cristo Rey in El Paso, TX. I returned tothe border in 2011 to become the program coordinator for Border Servant Corps, assisting to expand the pro-gram, working with those who strive for peace and justice on the borderland. In May 2013, I was named interimexecutive director and I look forward to continuing the work of Border Servant Corps.

One of the best parts of Border Servant Corps is watching people fall in love with the borderland; it’sunique combination of people, cultures, and political and physical landscape takes time for most to accept, letalone appreciate and enjoy. Yet, I have seen time and again how one story, one face, one hard-hitting fact haschanged perspectives, attitudes, and lives for the better. Border Servant Corps seeks to become a bridge between worlds, which changes lives when we truly come to see the other. I have enjoyed seeing the growth of ministry in

the region and I look forward to the ways we can continue to walk in service and continue to change.



Border Servant Corps

Summer has arrived! And for Border Servant Corps that means summer camps,

summer garden crops, and the continuation of doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly on the U.S./México border.

Summer also means the welcoming of summer interns, the conclusion of the 2012-2013 service year, and the beginning of the 2013-2014 service year. This year, we have wel-comed four BSC summer interns; we will say goodbye to 15 volunteers that have dedicated one to two years of their lives to serve this region; and greet the 17 to 19 volunteers that will join us for the next service year

.As we look forward to this new year, we have many ways you can become involved with BSC:

New El Paso House for 2013-2014 Service Year! Border Servant Corps is happy to announce we will have 8 volunteers in El Paso for the 2013-2014 service year. We are looking forward to this growth, but need your as-sistance as we seek additional housing options! Specs: $750 (or less) per month; 4+ bedrooms; Available anytimefrom July 1st-August 1st; North of I-10; Within a few miles radius of YWCA Sara McKnight Transitional Living Center (3700 Alturo Blvd El Paso, TX 79930), Diocesan Migrant & Refugee Services (2400 E Yandell Dr, ElPaso, TX 79903), and Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center (1500 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902). We welcome any assistance you, or those you know, could provide. Get Involved! BSC is seeking new Support Committee members. The Support Committees in each city work closely with one volunteer house to welcome and help them connect in this new place they are serving. Thrivent Choice Dollars. The Thrivent Choice® program allows members to recommend where some of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans' charitable outreach funds are allocated by directing Choice DollarsSM. BSC isable to accept these donations through Peace Lutheran Church (Las Cruces, NM). In order for these amounts tobe designated to BSC, donors must send the amount to [email protected] every time a donation is made. Due

Expect A Phone Call

The title alone has probably raised the blood pressure for a few of us. First: calmdown. Second: let me explain.

Confirmation is a time, we as a community of faith, have set aside for instruction

in the Christian faith in preparation for young people to make a commitment to serving Jesus with the entirety of their lives. Whether that is through direct service to the Churchof Jesus Christ or through the work they do in the world where God places them, it mat-ters not. When a person stands up and makes a commitment to serving Jesus, it is wher-ever they are, whenever they are there, for however long they are there. Our faith goes with us, is who we are as followers of Jesus.

In this time of preparation, as these young people, dialogue/struggle to figure out who they are in light of God’s promises and calling on their life, it is important for us as a community to supportthem through any and all means available to us. One of these means of support is through the wisdom we haveas a gathering of people. Theology, truth about who God is and what God is doing in the world in and throughus, cannot be done in a vacuum — that is why we gather to discern what and where God is leading us to. Whichleads me to this: some of you should expect a phone call. When you receive this phone call, it will be from me,

you should expect I will be asking you to be a mentor for a confirmation young person and their family. You cando anything from sending them a birthday, Christmas and Easter card, or have them over for dinner once amonth…the important thing will be to form a relationship of trust, friendship, and support so that together wecan live into the promise we made to these families to help nurture them in their life of faith. Begin praying aboutit and I will be making some phone calls. Just so that we are all clear…there are not enough confirmation young people so that everyone in the congregation will have a person to mentor…so if you don’t get called this time…don’t worry…there will be more opportunities as we continue in our relationship together.



to financial privacy laws, if the amount is not received from the donor, Peace is unable to designate the funds toBSC. For more information about how to donate, please contact [email protected]. Keep BSC in Your Prayers. Each year, we have a new group of volunteers working on the borderland. Formany of them, this is their first long-term experience working in border communities or with the border altogeth-er. Your prayers and words of encouragement offer tremendous support for volunteers who are working with do-

mestic violence victims, families who have been separated due to immigration issues, homeless children and adults,and many others who have been marginalized by society. It is difficult work, especially far from home. Please feelfree to write notes, send care packages, etc. to our volunteers to support them on their BSC journey. Upcoming events:

BSC Summer Intern Recognition in El Paso. Sunday, July 21st at 11:00am at Iglesia Luterana CristoRey (1010 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902). BSC Recognition in Las Cruces. Sunday, July 28th at 9:00am at Peace Lutheran Church (1701 E.Missouri Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001). BSC Farewell in El Paso. Sunday, August 4th at 11:00am at Cristo Rey (1010 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902).

Gratefulness; more than you know:

This year, Border Servant Corps has hosted five immersion groups from all around the country who have trav-eled to learn about the U.S./México border. Their experiences throughout their time on the border are basedaround education, openness, and faithfulness.

Peace Lutheran Church (Las Cruces, NM) has been instrumental in providing hospitality of spirit and space. The generous nature with which this church serves the border region, and those who visit it, is a great evangelisticministry which bridges the church and the world.

Peace is becoming known as a congregation that is integrally involved with generous giving, outreach to thecommunity, and a healthy congregation that looks within and beyond its walls to support others.

Thank you for the community you are, and have expressed, through your thoughts, words, and deeds. May God continue to bless this congregation and its ministry as it seeks to serve God’s community in all places.

My name is Raul Quezada. I'm 21 years old and I am Border Servant Corps volunteer.I migrated to the U.S.A. when I was 10; it was the decision of my parents to send me to another country to

get a better life and education. I came to this country without papers, but for a ten-year-old boy, it was something

exciting to be in the U.S. I thought it would be just like the movies, you know?But after living with my aunt, away from my family, I began to miss my mother and my brothers. Being separated from my family for a year was a horrible thing; I felt a hole in my heart and because I could not under-stand exactly why I could not go with them, it was frustrating.

After a year, my family crossed the U.S. I thought everything would be fine since my family was with me,but it was not so. My father was abusive and would beat my mom; he threatened to call Border Patrol if we saidsomething to someone. Also, my mother was afraid of the police because she was in fear of deportation.

The abuse continued for three years. The only way out for me and my brothers was being in school; wehated returning home and receiving that abuse. Until one day my father beat my mother so much that I decided totalk to the police.

The police helped us and took us to a domestic violence shelter, where they helped us get a work permit

Border Servant Corps seeks to provide an opportunity for volunteers to work for justice,

serve their neighbor, and walk humbly with their God. This month, Raul Quezada

(BSC volunteer at CAFé, 2012-2013) share his reflection about life on the border …

(Continued on page 14)



Greetings and Salutations! The Wired Word is a bible study subscription I have as part of my study, think-ing, and devotional life. I think it is great resource for me in terms of reflecting theologically upon the events of the world. I also have this subscription, to be quite honest, if I was in a pinch for time I would be able to havesomething for discussion with the adults on Sunday morning.

In light of our discussion of the book “Christianity For The Rest of Us” by Diana Butler Bass and the de-sire for to continue in small groups, the desire for bible study, and an opportunity for us to be in bible study Ithought I would start sharing one of the “Wired Word” studies with us each month. We can discuss it in our fam-ilies, during our fellowship time after worship, with our friends and/or neighbors, groups on Facebook, in smallgroups or in whatever way the Spirit moves us. I thought it would be a good conversation starter for us and see where it leads us.

The Secrets of a 74-Year-Marriage The Wired Word for the Week of June 23, 2013

In the News A couple of celebrities were sitting on the front row of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immacu-

late Conception on Sunday, June 16. They weren't movie stars, nor were they Washington politicians. Instead,they were Elizabeth and Jack Holly, who are about to celebrate their 74th wedding anniversary. "Congratulations. That ... is ... amazing," said one young couple to the 94-year-olds. The Hollys have an impressive marital track rec-ord, as do a number of their offspring. Their son William just celebrated his 50th anniversary, and their daughter Anna recently made it to her 27th. A couple of grandchildren are about to celebrate their 25th and26th anniversaries. The Hollys were at the National Shrine for its "Jubilarian Mass," which honored about 600couples who were celebrating 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 or more years of wedded life. More than 850 couples registeredto have their anniversaries recognized, including 11 couples who had made it past the threshold of 70 years. These850 couples totaled 39,417 years of marriage. The Catholics of Washington, D.C., are not alone in amassing such aremarkable number. In virtually every congregation in the United States, there are couples with remarkable maritalaccomplishments. These unions are rarely without stress and strain, and many have overcome obstacles of illness,loss and unfaithfulness. But the total years of marriage at most churches is amazing -- and inspiring.

So what are the secrets of a 74-year-marriage? "We kept busy," said Elizabeth Holly to The WashingtonPost. "You get home. You make supper. You go to bed." "We weren't rich people," she added. "All you got to dois act right. Be right. It ain't hard." The Hollys admitted that the toughest part of their marriage was raising chil-dren -- they gave birth to nine and lost three. But their commitment to the covenant of marriage has been good fortheir children, as is true for most children today. Two-parent households have considerable advantages in sharing the emotional load (and joy) of raising children. But, as reported in USA Today, there is also the matter of eco-nomics, which is a serious consideration in creating a healthy family. According to a recent Census report, nearly 40 percent of single-parent households were under the poverty line in 2010, compared with just 10 percent of mar-ried family households.

The importance of marriage to children, in terms of emotional and economic security, is something thatcan be affirmed by conservatives and liberals alike. With no disrespect to the 43 percent of Americans who are sin-

gle, it is clear that marriage is good for both adults and children. The secrets of a 74-year-marriage are keeping busy and acting right, as Elizabeth Holly said, but also focusing onthe welfare of your spouse and your children. Healthy marriages put family-interest ahead of self-interest, and aregrounded in the kind of sacrificial love that seeks first the welfare of others. Since the earliest days of the church,Christians have encouraged husbands and wives to provide for one another, to devote themselves to prayer and todo what they can to stay together and even make each other holy. Today, however, marriage is on a sharp declinein the United States. Fifty years ago, about three-quarters of American adults 18 and older were married, while to-day only 52 percent are. More men and women are living as singles -- even, at times, while having children -- astate of affairs that can ultimately harm children, making them much more likely to live in poverty.

Fortunately, two-thirds of Americans are upbeat about the future of marriage and family, according to thePew Research Center, and 46 percent of unmarried Americans say they want to get married. This is a desire worth



pursuing, as we start the next 39,417 years. More on this story can be found at these links:Md. Couple's Marriage Has Stood Test of Time, If Not Memory, The Washington Post Renewal of Marriage Vows at 2013 Jubilarian Mass, Facebook Column: Wedding Days Are Losing Their Way, USA Today The Decline of Marriage and Rise of New Families, Pew Social Trends

The Big Questions 1. What qualities do you see in a husband and wife who remain married for 74 years?

2. How do couples handle the stress and strain of life, and overcome obstacles of illness, loss and unfaith-fullness?

3. Should couples remain married for the benefit of their children? Why or why not?4. From an economic point of view, why should husbands and wives stay together? Why should couples

even marry in the first place? What are the benefits of two-parent families? When should other factorstake precedence?

5. Where do you see sacrificial love at work in healthy marriages? Give examples.6. Are you optimistic or pessimistic about the future of marriage? Explain.

Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion:

Genesis 2:24 Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. (For context, read 2:18-25.)In the story of creation, God forms animals and birds and brings them to the man he has created. The man givesnames to the cattle, birds and animals of the field, but none of them is found to be suitable as a partner for theman. So God causes the man to go to sleep, and he takes one of his ribs. God makes the rib into a woman andbrings her to the man. The man describes her as "bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh" (v. 23).Questions: Why is a woman especially suitable to be a man's partner? What is the significance of the phrase"bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh" (v. 23)? Why is it important, emotionally and spiritually, for a man toleave his parents and cling to his wife?

Exodus 20:14

You shall not commit adultery . (For context, read 20:1-17.) The Ten Commandments are given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The first set concerns the relationshipbetween humans and God, and the remaining group concerns relationships between humans. The prohibition of adultery lies between "you shall not murder" (v. 13) and "you shall not steal" (v. 15).Questions: Why is God concerned about adultery? What kind of damage is done when the covenant of mar-riage is broken? Who are the victims?

Mark 10:9 Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. (For context, read 10:1-16.)Some Pharisees test Jesus by asking him if it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife. Jesus answers by asking themabout Moses, who allowed divorce because of their "hardness of heart" (v. 5). But Jesus insists that "from thebeginning of creation, 'God made them male and female'" (v. 6), and reaffirms that God's intention is for them

to be "one flesh" (v. 8). Concerned for both the women and the children who are hurt by divorce, Jesus stressesthe permanence of marriage and then says "let the little children come to me" (v. 14).Questions: Are there cases today where divorce should be allowed because of "hardness of heart"? When is itimpossible for husbands and wives to remain "one flesh"? How should the concern of Jesus for vulnerable wom-en and children be demonstrated today, especially when it comes to divorce?

1 Corinthians 7:4 For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does; likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. (For context, read 7:1-16).In his directions on marriage, the apostle Paul stresses the sense of balance that is created in a marriage, withhusbands and wives giving each other "conjugal rights" (v. 3). His focus is on a mutuality of authority that exists

http://articles.washingtonpost.com/2013-06-16/local/40012939_1_elizabeth-william-jr-couples



https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.615955068422737.1073741831.166808540004061&type=1



http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/story/2011-10-30/wedding-marriage-commitment/51005830/1



http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2010/11/18/the-decline-of-marriage-and-rise-of-new-families/









when two people become one flesh. Paul encourages husbands and wives to provide for one another, to devotethemselves to prayer and to do what they can to stay together and even make each other holy (vv. 5, 10-16).Questions: In marriage, where do you see a focus not on self-satisfaction, but on serving someone or something that is bigger than yourself? How is a sense of balance and mutuality of authority experienced in a healthy mar-riage? Give examples.

Hebrews 13:4 Let marriage be held in honor by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge fornicators and

adulterers. (For context, read 13:1-6). The letter to the Hebrews speaks of service that is pleasing to God, including mutual love, hospitality tostrangers and remembering those who are imprisoned. The writer then encourages his audience to hold marriagein honor, and concludes by encouraging them to keep their lives "free from the love of money" (v. 5).Questions: What are the particular qualities of marriage that are valued by God? Why is judgment predicted for"fornicators and adulterers"? What is the significance of this list of pleasing actions for today?

For Further Discussion1. What factors have led to a decline in marriage over the past 50 years, and what can be done to reverse

this trend?2. In your opinion, what are the actions and attitudes that create long and happy marriages?3. What role should the church play in supporting couples in their marriages?

4. If you are married, who are your role models and accountability partners as you seek to keep your vows? What problems would you encounter without them? If you are unmarried, whom do you seek to emulateor to take advice from in your considerations of marriage?

5. What are the top areas that you think should be covered in premarital counseling today?6. The "marriage equality" movement is clearly advancing across the country. What impact, if any, do you

think same-sex marriage will have on heterosexual marriage?

Responding to the News Reflect on the promises that stand at the center of every healthy marriage. If you are married, think about the vows you have made to your spouse. If you are single, ponder the importance of the commitments you havemade to family members and friends. Reach out to someone who is struggling with promise-keeping, and offer

them your support and encouragement.

for the abuse we went through. My mother found a job and then we moved to a house in Las Cruces. I gotinvolved with different programs as a volunteer and I was a leader with youth and children in my church – togive back to my community that has given me everything.

Now my family is in the process of obtaining permanent residency, but it has been a long and very over- whelming journey. I really do not want to feel that feeling of not having my mom and my brothers beside meagain. Honestly, I know how those families that have been separated feel. Unfortunately, many of them haveto go through a situation similar to my family's to get a U-Visa in order to fix their status.

All the help I received from my community and volunteers over past year with BSC has helped me ar-rive where I am now. Working with CAFé has taught me how to work with families similar to mine. This year was full of new experiences for me; I had lived here on the border for several years, but now I can see it differ-ently through the eyes of my fellow BSC volunteers and it has been a great thing. This year will stay with me forthe rest of my life; the good and bad experiences made me grow a lot. I cannot wait to see what the futureholds for me.

My name is Raul Quezada continued from page 11



Thoughts to Share by Pastor Jon...In the Meantime

This was one of my daily devotions recently from a site called “In the Meantime…” I have shared thingsfrom there with you in previous months. I thought this was absolutely breathtaking and wanted to give you achance to read it too. Please enjoy…

Read Louisa Fletcher’s wonderful poem “The Land of Beginning Again” and then ask yourself if this isheaven. Heaven not as some distant and cloud-filled paradise but rather that place where all hurts are mended, allgrief comforted, all regrets repaired, all insults undone, all relationships restored.

In painting a picture that reminds me a bit of C. S. Lewis’ Narnia, Fletcher reminds us that life – both hereand in the world to come – is about relationships. And she reminds us that forgiveness – which is, in fact, releasinga claim on another so as to begin again – is the secret ingredient of life.

But then ask yourself another question. Must we wait for the world to come to enter into the land of be-ginning again? Might church be that as well, at least a foretaste and perhaps even more? What would it take? What would we have to do to make our faith community the place where we are candid about our brokenness, eager forrestoration, and willing to risk ourselves in love, mercy, and forgiveness that we might live – even here, even now –in the land of beginning again.

The Land of Beginning Again

I wish that there were some wonderful place

In the Land of Beginning Again. Where all our mistakes and all our heartaches And all of our poor selfish grief

Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the doorand never put on again.

I wish we could come on it all unaware,Like the hunter who finds a lost trail;

And I wish that the one whom our blindness had done The greatest injustice of allCould be there at the gateslike an old friend that waits

For the comrade he’s gladdest to hail. We would find all the things we intended to do

But forgot, and remembered too late,Little praises unspoken, little promises broken,

And all the thousand and oneLittle duties neglected that might have perfected

The day for one less fortunate.It wouldn’t be possible not to be kind

In the Land of Beginning Again, And the ones we misjudged

and the ones whom we grudgedtheir moments of victory here,

Would find in the grasp of our loving hand-claspMore than penitent lips could explain…

So I wish that there were some wonderful placeCalled the Land of Beginning Again,

Where all our mistakes and all our heartaches, And all of our poor selfish grief

Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door And never put on again.



We are a village. Join us!

P e a c e L u t h e r a n C h u r c h 16 9 9 B e l v i d e r e E l P a s o , T X

Pastor Jon Hundt

phone 915.585.6202 (h)[email protected]

Church Office

phone 915.594.1383

You are Cordially Invited to Worshipwith us at Peace

Worship Service every Sunday at 9am

We’re on the Web: peacelutheranelp.org

We’re on Facebook: Peace Lutheran Church, El Paso, Texas

Peace Lutheran Church Has Been Serving the

West Side Of El Paso Since 1983

Peace celebrated its25th anniversary in 2008. We are a medium-sizedgrowing congregation with three core ministries: worship, growth in disci-pleship, and service inand to the community.

Peace uses a variety of worship services, withmusic from multiple

sources. Each worshipservice is structured toreflect the Biblical em-phasis for that Sunday.

Jesus calls his follow-ers to be disciples. We

take that call seriously,seeking to grow in ourfaith through study op-portunities and practicing our faith in our daily lives.

Peace’s largest ministry in the community is itspreschool, where we seek to get children started onthe right path education-ally, socially and spiritual-

ly. We are Mission Part-ners with Iglesia LuteranaCristo Rey in downtownEl Paso, giving and re-ceiving tools and encour-agement for ministry.

Through Border Inter-faith, we partner withother faith institutions toimprove the quality of lifein El Paso

Core Beliefs Jesus Christ, God in the

flesh, came to give thegift of peace: peace withGod, peace with our

selves, and peace in the world. We are called tolive and share that giftuntil the whole worldcomes to know thatpeace.

July 2013 Newsletter, Peace Lutheran Church

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Transcript of July 2013 Newsletter, Peace Lutheran Church