Salt & Light Aug 14-20 2022

We are now in a season of transition and JOY!

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2022
COME TOGETHER FOR THE 10th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST!

Leaven/S&L ZOOM Login
https://zoom.us/j/5032877553
Mobile: +1 408 638 0968
Meeting ID 503 287 7553
Passcode: 910512

9:30-10:30am “We Make the Road by Walking”
In the chapel and on Zoom

11:00-12:30pm Salt and Light Worship

  • Rev. Julia Nielsen
    Officiating & Scripture Reflection Luke 12:49-56
    John Rodgers, Presiding

  • Ali Ippolito & Lonnie Phelps Musicians

  • Chris Evans Usher

  • Children’s Accompaniment Circle
    Jane Keating

  • Zoom AV Team

David Balch’s scripture reflection on Luke 12:32-40 will be uploaded to YouTube Saturday afternoon when LaVeta returns from the churchwide assembly.

Your participation is welcomed and needed for Sunday gatherings

Set-up, candle lighting, flowers, hospitality, ushering, worship assistants, zoom hosting.
Set-up & Hospitality contact: cmlt@leaven.org OR talk with Anneliese, Amy, Jenny, Darrel

Zoom hosting contact: Brent, botanu@gmail.com
LaVeta, lavetagj@gmail.com

ELCA Churchwide Assembly Summary
Go here for a summary and links to the memorials (legislation) passed.

CWA 2022 Video Playlist
Assembly Resources & Documents


UPCOMING MEETINGS - GATHERINGS

TUESDAY August 16, 2022

Leaven Community Board of Directors
6:30pm Meeting with Call Team Co-Chairs
Inquiries: board@leaven.org

SUNDAY, August 28, 2022

NEWS from the CMLT
Jess Ingman Candidacy
Jess Ingman has decided to enter Candidacy, the process of discernment and preparation leading individuals to approval for public ministries of the ELCA and participation as rostered leaders in congregations.
CMLT expresses full support for Jess Ingman’s candidacy and great joy in being part of this process with her and have submitted the necessary forms to the Oregon Synod.

GATHER SUNDAY, AUGUST 28
Sunday Worship followed by Potluck

One way congregations are asked to show their support for candidates is by paying an $800 administrative fee. While Jess expressed her family's willingness to share this cost, CMLT invites Salt and Light members who would be delighted, to contribute in support and honor of Jess, who is such a beloved part of our community. A special offering will be taken up on August 28th when Jess preaches at Sunday worship. We will also host a potluck celebration following the service.

 
 
 

CAC: Children’s Accompaniment Circle
This Sunday

"FRIENDSHIP DAY"

This Sunday on Friendship Day! We will "test" our proposed pre-movie activities for youth at Thursday's Leaven tabling at Alberta Park for the Vernon Neighborhood Association’s Movie Night. *Bring a change of clothes or stay wet in these dog days.

Perhaps you can call one (or more) of your Salt & Light friends to ask about their summer and invite them to come on Sunday. Can you help with encouragement? A ride even? We want everyone here!

Leaven Community-Wide Gathering
Thursday, August 18, 6PM
Alberta Park

Gather with Leaven Community youth, friends and neighbors at Alberta Park for pre-movie games and fun at the Leaven Community table. The Vernon Neighborhood Association will show the movie, “The Goonies” beginning at 8:30PM as part of Portand Parks & Recreations Movies Summer Free for All.

 

Salt & Light Aug 7-13, 2022

We are now in a season of transition and JOY!

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7, 2022
COME TOGETHER FOR THE 9th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST!

Leaven/S&L ZOOM Login
https://zoom.us/j/5032877553
Mobile: +1 408 638 0968
Meeting ID 503 287 7553
Passcode: 910512

9:30-10:30am “We Make the Road by Walking”
In the chapel and on Zoom

11:00-12:30pm Salt and Light Worship

  • David Balch
    Presiding Minister & Preacher
    Scripture Reflection - Luke 12:32-40

  • Ali Ippolito & Lonnie Phelps Musicians

  • Chris Evans Usher

  • Children’s Accompaniment Circle
    Jane Keating

  • Zoom AV Team
    Brent Wilson & Lois Jordahl

CLICK HERE to view the video of Matt Smith’s scripture reflection on Luke 12:13-21.

Your participagtion is welcomed and needed for Sunday gatherings

Set-up, candle lighting, flowers, hospitality, ushering, worship assistants, zoom hosting.
Set-up & Hospitality contact: cmlt@leaven.org OR talk with Anneliese, Amy, Jenny, Darrel

Zoom hosting contact: Brent, botanu@gmail.com
LaVeta, lavetagj@gmail.com

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Beginning MONDAY August 8

ELCA Churchwide Assembly
The purpose statement of the ELCA calls on this church to “activate each of us so more people know the way of Jesus and discover community, justice, and love.”
Solveig and LaVeta will join others representing the Oregon Synod at this week-long gathering. Click following links for more information.

Home Page & Live Stream Link
Assembly Resources & Documents

TUESDAY August 9, 2022

S&L Congregational Mission Leader Team
6:30-8pm, In person at Leaven & zoom
Inquiries: cmlt@leaven.org

Leaven Community Board of Directors
6:30pm In person at Leaven
Inquiries: board@leaven.org

BBB
7-9pm Laurelhurst Park near Ankeny and Laurerlhurst Place

 
 
 

Vickie and the kids interacting on the Wondering Time quilt, Sunday, July 24, 2022.

CAC: Children’s Accompaniment Circle
This Sunday
“Spirit of Holiness"

Jesus promised his followers three things...Which of our fun ideas can we try out at Friendship Day?
Jane and the kids will explore this question through the lens of Luke 12:32-40.

NEXT SUNDAY

"FRIENDSHIP DAY"
Sunday, August 14

Who of our Salt & Light/Leaven friends do we keep missing? Who can you call and see how their summer has been? Invite them to come and join you on Friendship Day!

Alberta Park Movie Night
August 18

Mark your calendar!
Leaven will be tabling at Alberta Park Movie Night Thursday, August 18th. CAC brainstormed a draft list of 13 fun things young people can host for young people. What fun do we want to have that is also about Leaven Community values - Be, Love, Act?

Come share your ideas this Sunday AND if you cannot come and have some ideas call Jane ASAP so we can include your thinking. Again, mark your calendar to come to Movie Night tabling activities.

Last but not least, Thank you Salt & L ight family for my "Big Number" birthday card and singing so beautifully to me!

 

Salt & Light July 31-Aug 6, 2022

We are now in a season of transition and JOY!

SUNDAY, JULY 31, 2022
COME TOGETHER FOR THE 8th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST!

Leaven/S&L ZOOM Login
https://zoom.us/j/5032877553
Mobile: +1 408 638 0968
Meeting ID 503 287 7553
Passcode: 910512

9:30-10:30am “We Make the Road by Walking”
In the chapel and on Zoom

9:45-10:45am Choir Rehearsal

11:00-12:30pm Salt and Light Worship

  • Pastor John Rodgers Presider

  • Matt Smith Scripture Reflection on Luke 12: 13-21

  • Ali Ippolito & Lonnie Phelps Musicians

  • The Seat-of-Our-Pants Choir Special Music

  • Chris Evans Usher

  • Children’s Accompaniment Circle
    Jane Keating

  • Zoom AV Team

CLICK HERE to view the video of Julia Nielsen’s scripture reflection on the prayer of Jesus as recorded in Luke 11:1-13.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Call Team - Ongoing

MONDAY, August 9, 2022

S&L Congregational Mission Leader Team
6:30-8pm, In person at Leaven & zoom
Inquiries: cmlt@leaven.org

Leaven Community Board of Directors
7-8:30pm In person at Leaven
Inquiries: board@leaven.org

 
 
 

Vickie and the kids interacting on the Wondering Time quilt, Sunday, July 24, 2022.

Children’s Accompaniment Circle This Sunday:
“Spirit of Power"

How do we know when something isn’t fair or just? Jane and the children will explore this question through the lens of 2 Timothy 1:11. "God has not given us a spirit of cowardice but of power, love, and a sound mind."

UPCOMING CAC EVENTS

"FRIENDSHIP DAY"
Sunday, August 14

Calling all Salt and Light Friends! In the Spirit of Unity and Diversity, CAC is having a “Friendship Day.”  Call your pals at Salt & Light and we will all have some summer fun together.  Let's see how many friends we can get together!

Alberta Park Movie Night
August 18

What Could We Do?
Leaven is tabling at the Alberta Park Movie Night, Thursday, August 18th. Would CAC like to engage with our neighbors in an activity for youth…all ages? What are your ideas? Come share your ideas this Sunday and next!

 

Salt & Light July 24-30, 2022

We are now in a season of transition and JOY!

SUNDAY, JULY 24th
COME TOGETHER FOR THE 7th SUNDAY after PENTECOST!

Leaven/S&L ZOOM Login
https://zoom.us/j/5032877553
Mobile: +1 408 638 0968
Meeting ID 503 287 7553
Passcode: 910512

9:30-10:30am “We Make the Road by Walking”
In the chapel and on Zoom

9:45-10:45am Choir Rehearsal

11:00-12:30pm Salt and Light Worship

  • Rev. Julia Nielsen, Officiating
    Jules will lead the congregation in conversations and a community discussion on the prayer of Jesus found in
    Luke 11:1-13.

  • Ali Ippolito & Lonnie Phelps Musicians

  • The Seat-of-Our-Pants Choir Special Music

  • Chris Evans Usher

  • Children’s Accompaniment Circle
    Vicki Schellert

  • AV Team

CLICK HERE to view the video of Eric Conklin’s scripture reflection on the story of Mary and Martha written in Luke 10:38-42. He explores their “Love Languages.”

MEETINGS This Week

MONDAY, July 25 , 2022
Call Team - Interviewing Candidate

 
 
 

Children’s Accompaniment Circle

THIS SUNDAY

Vickie Schellert will be facilitating CAC this Sunday while Jane is visiting with family.

Spirit of Conspiracy
"As you have done for the least of these you have done for me," Jesus said. 
What would our community look like if God's dreams for it were coming true?

CAC Welcomes Some New Friends
Welcome Maya, Juneau and Homer. We’re glad you’re here!

UPCOMING

Sunday, August 14, 2022
"FRIENDSHIP DAY"

Calling all Salt and Light Friends! In the Spirit of Unity and Diversity, CAC is having a “Friendship Day.”  Call your pals at Salt & Light and we will all have some summer fun together.  Let's see how many friends we can get together!

 
 

Salt & Light July 17-23, 2022

We are now in a season of transition and JOY!

SUNDAY, JULY 17
COME TOGETHER FOR THE 7TH SUNDAY IN PENTECOST!

Leaven/S&L ZOOM Login
https://zoom.us/j/5032877553
Mobile: +1 408 638 0968
Meeting ID 503 287 7553
Passcode: 910512

9:30-10:30am “We Make the Road by Walking”
in the chapel and on Zoom

9:45-10:45am Choir Rehearsal

11:00-12:30pm Salt and Light Worship

  • Eric Conklin Presider
    Eric will lead the congregation in conversations and a community discussion on the story of Mary and Martha found in Luke 10:38-42.

  • Ali Ippolito & Lonnie Phelps Musicians

  • The Seat-of-Our-Pants Choir Special Music

  • Chris Evans Usher

  • AV Team Zoom host

  • Children’s Accompaniment Circle Jane Keating

CLICK HERE for video of John Rodger’s Scripture Reflection on the Good Samaritan.

MEETINGS This Week

SATURDAY July 16, 2022
Call Team - 11-3pm Offsite Location
LC Board - Saturday, 2:30-4:30pm Leaven Community
Leaven Community-wide Gathering, 4:30-6:30pm - Leaven Parking Lot

 
 
 

Children’s Accompaniment Circle

Spirit of Service",
John 13:1-15

Leaven has a famous abundance of health promoting mint! CAC will make mint tea to share with everyone. What is a creative way we can invite our congregation to drink to our health? Write a song?

Sunday, August 14, 2022
"FRIENDSHIP DAY"

Calling all Salt and Light Friends! In the Spirit of Unity and Diversity CAC is having a "Friendship Day".  Call your pals at Salt & Light and we will all have some summer fun together.  Let's see how many friends we can get together!

LAST WEEK
We celebrted Friendship Day with our friends and neighbors!

 
 

Salt & Light July 10-16, 2022

We are now in a season of transition and JOY!

SUNDAY, JULY 10
COME TOGETHER FOR THE 6TH SUNDAY IN PENTECOST!

Leaven/S&L ZOOM Login
https://zoom.us/j/5032877553
Mobile: +1 408 638 0968
Meeting ID 503 287 7553
Passcode: 910512

9:30-10:30am “We Make the Road by Walking”
in the chapel and on Zoom

9:45-10:45am Choir Rehearsal

11:00-12:30pm Salt and Light Worship

  • John Rodgers: Presider
    John will lead the congregation in conversations and a community discussion of the Good Samaritan scripture passage from Luke 10: 25-37.

  • Ali Ippolito & Lonnie Phelps: Musicians

  • The Seat-of-Our-Pants Choir: Special Music

  • Chris Evans: Usher

  • LaVeta Gilmore Jones: Zoom host

  • Children’s Accompaniment Circle: Jane Keating

CLICK HERE for video of Eric Conklin’s Scripture Reflection on Romans 12:3-21.

MEETINGS This Week

TUESDAY, JULY 12
In-Person at Leaven Community
S&L CMLT 6:30-8PM Congregational Mission Leader Team
Leaven Community Board 7:00-8:30PM

 
 
 

Children’s Accompaniment Circle
"FRIENDSHIP DAY"
Sunday, July 10, 2022
and
Sunday, August 14, 2022

Calling all Salt and Light Friends! In the Spirit of Unity and Diversity CAC is having a "Friendship Day".  Call your pals at S & L and we will all have some summer fun together.  Let's see how many friends we can get together!

LAST WEEK
Last week Jane was on vacation. Jenny DuVander met with two children who came from the neighborhood.

 
 

Salt & Light July 3-9, 2022

We are now in a season of transition and JOY!

SUNDAY, JULY 3
COME TOGETHER FOR THE 5TH SUNDAY IN PENTECOST!

9:30-10:30am “We Make the Road by Walking”
in chapel and on Zoom (link below)

9:45-10:45am Choir Rehearsal

11:00-12:30pm Salt and Light Worship

  • Eric Conklin: Presider & Scripture Reflection
    View on YouTube

  • Ali Ippolito & Lonnie Phelps: Musicians

  • The Seat-of-Our-Pants Choir: Special Music

  • Chris Evans: Usher

  • Brent Wilson: Zoom host

  • Children: Jane on vacation. Activities will be on

    the art table.

ZOOM Login
https://zoom.us/j/5032877553
Mobile: +1 408 638 0968
Meeting ID 503 287 7553
Passcode: 910512

CHILDREN’s Accompaniment circle

VBS Week: The kids created wishes and blessings for our newly planted Oak tree that was planted by Beatrix's Girl Scouts troop.

THIS WEEK - JULY 3, 2022
Jane is on vacation and there will be a table in the sanctuary with activities for the kids.

LAST WEEK
The kids shared letters of love and appreciation with Solveig and sent her off with a group song, "I've Got the Joy Down in My Heart.”

 
 

REQUESTS FOR SUPPORT & HEALING
IN LOVING MEMORY

UPCOMING Next Week

TUESDAY, JULY 12
6:30-8PM
CMLT and Leaven Community Board Meetings
In-Person at Leaven Community

Pastor Solveig Completes Interim

May 2022

Dear friends,

Exciting things are happening! The Ministry Site Profile that so many folks contributed to is now LIVE on the web for potential candidates to see! Juan Carlos La Puente, our Synod representative, is actively reaching out to potential candidates, and we are confident the Call/Search Team will be finalized within the next week to ten days!

Equally as important, the Board and the CMLT are finding their grooves and working toward financial sustainability, stronger community ownership, and re-kindling a culture of relationality. In other words, we are RE-MEMBERING! 

And even more, our partnerships with multiple ecumenical congregations as well as other schools and nonprofits are suddenly BURSTING with possibilities for engagement for children and youth: an emerging NE KIDS' collective for K-5; an emerging NE YOUTH collective for MS and HS; our ecumenical Vacation Bible School from June 20-24 for up to 60 kids; and the Leaven Summer Youth Garden Program led by our very own Jane Keating! We are RE-MEMBERING our kids and they are RE-MEMBERING one another and us!

So despite the challenges presented by two years of pandemic, new life is emerging and the path forward is being revealed one step at a time. We are indeed "making the road by walking!" 

So it is at this time of so many exciting possibilities emerging that I'd like to share that I will be stepping back from my role as Interim Pastor at the end of June. For many reasons I am needing to be gone for all of July and August anyway, so through much prayer and conversation I have discerned that a clear closure to my time in this official Interim role would not only serve my family needs, but the community as well. 

I have invited both the Board and the CMLT to keep in touch, and depending on how the call process is going, if it appears that there is a particular need I can help with in the fall, I am open to supporting the community in a limited and defined way until new leadership is in place. And then I will step back to simply be a building partner with the Interfaith Spiritual Center again, and one among the many beautiful humans who are members of this Leaven/Salt and Light community. 

Starting in July, as the Call/Search Team is likely starting the interview process, Rev. Mary Peterson, a member of Salt and Light, has agreed to be a support to that team. Mary has recently accompanied another congregation through the call process, so she has lived experience to bring to her accompaniment. The Call/Search Team will be well supported by Mary and Juan Carlos!

Serving as Interim Pastor in a pandemic has been a WILD and amazing ride, let me tell you! I don't know how it can simultaneously feel like, "How could I be leaving so soon?" and "Oh my gosh, I've been here TWO YEARS!" But that's just the nature of time in a pandemic, apparently! 

I'll offer more reflections on my time over the next 6-7 weeks, but most of all I wish to convey my deepest gratitude for the tremendous experience of serving in this role with you all, as well as my absolute faith in the power of this community to RE-MEMBER itself in the days, months and years ahead.

Is there more work to do? Yes. 

Did we have all the conversations that needed to be had? No. 

Are we still in a financially risky situation? Yes. 

Is there every reason to invest in this community's future? Absolutely.

Can these bones live? ... Well, that's YOURS to decide. But from my perspective, after two years as your Interim Pastor, the answer is a resounding YES!

With gratitude and great joy,

Solveig