Worship Opportunities

In-person: Sundays at 9:30 and 11am in our sanctuary. Sign up online to reserve a

spot.

Audio Worship: Sundays on our website,

www.stjamespdx.org

For more details, see page 3

Find Us Online

Online Worship: stjamespdx.org/

communications/sermons/ (updated weekly)

St. James October Jazz Vespers: stjamespdx.org/communications/music/

(available October 18)

St. James Virtual Art Gallery: stjamespdx.org/life/groups/

visual-artists-group/

St. James Lutheran Church Newsletter October 2020

1 3 1 5 S W P a r k A v e , P o r t l a n d O R 9 7 2 0 1 | www.stjamespdx.org

$16,650 Given So Far We are saddened by the death and destruction following the explosion in Beirut on August 4. Three large shipping containers belonging to Lutheran World Relief were destroyed in the blast. St. James is helping with our “$20,000 in 2020” fundraiser for Lutheran World Relief, which will conclude on October 11. So far, we have raised $16,650. Thank you for giving above and beyond your regular offerings.

“A Christian is a perfectly free lord of all, subject to none. A

Christian is a perfectly dutiful servant of all, subject of all,

subject to all.” - Martin Luther in 1520

This month at St. James, we begin a Season of Gratitude. Instead of a traditional Stewardship Emphasis, we say THANK YOU. This autumn, over 70 million Lutherans worldwide celebrate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s treatise “The Freedom of a Christian.” Luther’s words (above) speak of Christ’s gift of freedom. It is not only freedom FROM. It is freedom FOR. During this pandemic and uncertain times, you have used your freedom in Christ to: Feed those who live on our streets five times a week Give special gifts to Lutheran World Relief approaching our

goal of $20,000 Stay connected in conversation and prayer with our phone

and email ministry Chronicle our pandemic journey with an artist’s touch Explore the tough issue of systemic racism Sustain ministry with your faithful regular offerings. That’s what you have done with your freedom. This month we say THANK YOU for using your freedom well.

Pastor David

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Contact us at: St. James Lutheran Church 1315 SW Park Ave Portland, OR 97201 Pastor David: pastordavid@stjamespdx.org Office Hours: 7:30am-2pm

503-227-2439 Fax 503-227-0856

office@stjamespdx.org Newsletter Production: Lilli Vellom

office@stjamespdx.org Newsletter editor: Kathleen McDonald

September Council Highlights September 22, 2020

Meeting was called to order at 7:05pm by President Becky Bolt. Present were Becky Bolt, Mandy Ellertson, Julie Hatch, Carl Cottingham, Sue Hammond, Jim Siverson, Kathleen McDonald, Pastor David, David Scott, and Paula Veseth (via phone). Charlotte Cook was absent. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Paula Veseth reported the financials for August were the best for that month in twelve years. Overall, this has been the best summer for giving in memory. Pastor’s Report: Pastor David shared that since congregational giving has been so positive this year, the Fall Stewardship campaign will be the “Season of Gratitude.” The current Capital Fund Drive for Lutheran World Relief has received over $16,000 so far and is expected to reach the goal of $20,000 by campaign’s conclusion in mid-October. Pastor also shared concern about the status of ongoing public health. As more places start to open, as school resumes, and as the flu season begins, COVID cases could be on the rise again. He suggested we stay nimble and flexible. The Oregon Synod Assembly will be held November 6-7, via Zoom. Discussion continued on placement of the Joe Smith Memorial bronze plaque. Council voted unanimously to install the plaque on the east-facing wall of the St. James Apartments facing into the courtyard. President’s Report: President Becky Bolt reported that Lillian Vellom and Karin Hatch will both be returning to work in-office part time beginning October 1. Interviews for Music Director are resuming, including Zoom meetings and an in-person audition. Old Business: Sue Hammond updated Council on the refinancing process for the St. James Apartments. Inspections for the loans have already begun and so far the response has very positive. A Congregational Meeting will be convened when the inspections are completed. Meeting adjourned at 8pm.

Notice of St. James Special Congregational Meeting A Special Meeting of the St. James Lutheran Church members will tentatively occur in late October. The exact date will be sent to members of the congregation as soon as determined by the Council. The sole purpose of the meeting will be the consideration and vote of: The refinancing of the St. James Apartments at an historic low interest rate, and For the Church Building: the replacement of the roof (including seismic tie-downs of the roof

to the building) and a new heating and cooling system (with the removal of the boiler). It is anticipated that all of this will cost less than what we are presently paying monthly. The voting meeting will be held both in-person and remotely. A question and answer session will take place earlier in the month as well as a detailed letter so you may make an informed vote. Our thanks for the work of the St. James Housing Board and the St. James Council for moving our ministry forward.

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Joel Nickel

Worshiping in our Sanctuary On August 2 we rolled the piano into position and began in-person Eucharistic worship (9:30 and 11am) in our outdoor courtyard. Then on September 13 we returned to our beautiful indoor sanctuary (9:30 and 11am) and enjoyed the sound of the pipe organ. Governor Brown now allows up to fifty people per service if masked and seated six feet apart. Pre-packaged Holy

Communion elements are distributed at the door as you enter; the pre-placed bulletins on the pews will direct you to an available seat. Additionally, an audio worship service is available anytime on Sundays eight minutes after midnight if you choose to worship at home. Our thanks to the increasing number of worshipers who join us in these varied venues. The Wednesday Eucharist service will return in the coming months.

Helping Near Medford Thirty-five wildfires raced through Oregon in early September, devastating towns like Talent, Phoenix, Lyons, Detroit, and Blue River. Ten percent of the state was evacuated. As the smoke clears, the rebuilding of towns and lives begins. That’s why St. James member Bill Herbert was rushed to the Medford area. He works with FEMA. He helps rebuild lives and communities. Our love and support continues to help these communities, and that love follows Bill Herbert as well.

Feeding Amid the Smoke Five times a week at noon, St. James provides food, bottled water, and needed items to those who live on our streets. In September, the smoke from the wildfires severely impacted our Portland houseless community. There was little escape from the thick haze. A larger group than usual gathered in the park just steps from our doors to receive our items of new socks, protein drink, fresh fruit, cup-of-soup, protein and fruit bars, hygiene items, bottled water, apple sauce, and snacks. Our thanks to all who give financial or in-kind gifts to this St. James ministry.

Update from the Music Director Search Committee We are pleased to have Michael Lindner as our Interim Director of Music, especially as we have moved back in to our sanctuary for worship. The Music Director Search Committee, led by Gretchen Rodgers, continues to work behind the scenes to select a permanent director for the position. Some interviews have been taking place this fall. In

accordance with the St. James Council decision in March, due to the pandemic, the formal process and recommendation will come early in 2021. Many thanks to the committee and their good work.

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St. James Child Development Center This past month has been amazing, filled with so much love and learning at the Child Development Center. It has been wonderful to see and hear the building come back to life. Today, we are up to 18 staff and 43 children. I am hopeful that as we move through the fall and winter, families will feel more comfortable sending children back to St. James.

Classrooms are settling in nicely to new routines and schedules. We are now able to go on short walks in the community, as long as we do not enter public buildings. Two weeks ago, children ventured up to the athletic field at Portland State University to run their little hearts out. It was wonderful to see children laughing and playing in the freedom of the big, sunny spaces. All classrooms will be starting to implement an adjusted curriculum this month. Our curriculum is heavily reliant on group work, so we are adjusting to include more activities that have independent work. We are also adopting some philosophies that are more Montessori in nature. I am happy to report that last month we had a successful virtual visit from the Department of Education licensing staff. Our staff are finishing up our required continuing education as we

prepare for our annual license renewal. Staff are required to complete 15 hours of continuing education, which has looked very different this past year as all options are virtual only. We are also anticipating visits from the Portland Fire Bureau and Multnomah County Health Inspectors as part of this annual process. - Patrick Earnest

St. James Students at PLU Fall classes began at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma in early September. Two St. James members are busy studying: Sarah Nelson and Cotter Sehdev. Pictured are Sarah and friend Thomas who helped new students move in. Most students live on-campus and their classes are a combination of in-class and remote learning.

Welcome Ian and Landon are happy to announce that Riley's adoption has been finalized and she is officially a Garrett! We are grateful for all the support from our St James family! Her baptism will occur in the spring.

Dear Church Our Adult Education class on systemic racism and Pastor Duncan’s book Dear Church concludes on October 4. Discussion will take place at 12:30pm over Zoom and will be led by Mandy Ellertson. Additionally, PLU’s annual Lutheran Studies

Conference will include a keynote address with Rev. Duncan on October 1. You can watch the virtual conference online at PLU.edu.

Contemplative Prayer Saturdays, October 3 and 17, 9:30-11am via Zoom We will continue to meet virtually this fall. New members are welcomed—contact Susan McBerry to get the link for our Zoom meetings.

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October Commemorations October 4: Francis of Assisi, renewer of the church, +1226 Born into the family of a wealthy merchant, Francis gave up his inheritance to serve poor people. He formed the Order of Friars Minor (called Franciscans), who took on poverty and the task of preaching “using words if necessary.” Francis had a spirit of gratitude for all of God’s creation. A prayer and a hymn attributed to St. Francis are included in Evangelical Lutheran Worship (p. 87, #835).

October 7: Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, pastor in North America, +1787 Muhlenberg (MYOO-len-berg) was prominent in setting the course for Lutheranism in North America. He helped Lutheran churches make the transition from the state churches of Europe to a new identity on American soil. Among other things, he established the first Lutheran synod in America and developed an American Lutheran liturgy. His liturgical principles became the basis for the Common Service of 1888, used in many North American service books for a majority of the past century. That Muhlenberg and his work are remembered today was anticipated at his death. The inscription on his grave reads, in Latin, “Who and what he was, future ages will know without a stone.”

October 15: Teresa of Ávila, teacher and renewer of the church, +1582 A mystical writer and reformer of the monastic order (Carmelites) to which she belonged, Teresa may also be commemorated with John of the Cross on December 14. Latino Christians traditionally remember her on this date.

October 26: hymnwriters Philipp Nicolai, +1608; Johann Heermann, +1647; and Paul Gerhardt, +1676 These three outstanding hymnwriters all worked in Germany during times of war and plague. When Philipp Nicolai was a pastor in Westphalia, the plague killed thirteen hundred of his parishioners. One hundred seventy people died in one week. His hymns “Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying” (ELW 436) and “O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright!” (ELW 308) were included in a series of meditations he wrote to comfort his parishioners during the plague. The style of Johann Heermann’s hymns moved away from the more objective style of Reformation hymnody toward expressing the emotions of faith. Among his hymns is the plaintive “Ah, Holy Jesus” (ELW 349). Paul Gerhardt lost a preaching position at St. Nicholas Church in Berlin because he refused to sign a document stating he would not make theological arguments in his sermons. The author of beloved hymns such as “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded” (ELW 351), some have called Gerhardt the greatest of Lutheran hymn writers.

October 31: Reformation Day By the end of the seventeenth century, many Lutheran churches celebrated a festival commemorating Martin Luther’s posting of the Ninety-five Theses, a summary of the abuses in the church of his time. At the heart of the reform movement was the gospel, the good news that it is by grace through faith that we are justified and set free.

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St. James Ministries and Groups St. James Jazz Vespers Our Jazz Vespers series continues via pre-recorded services available on YouTube and through our website. In October, our special guest will be Israel Annoh, a master percussionist from Ghana. Israel has performed at St. James in the past, and has been a fixture on the Portland scene for many years. Listen on October 18.

Caring for Creation: “Last Run” From Nature Conservancy, Fall 2020 “On the edge of Alaska, a community weighs the future of the greatest sockeye

salmon run on Earth: Bristol Bay, which is about 200 miles across… on the far-flung edge of the storm-tossed Bering Sea. It is here that Annette Caruso, Hans Apokedak, and Greg Andrew (pictured) pull thousands of fish out of set nets—as their ancestors have done for 11,000 years, or as Yup’ik elders put it, ‘since time was thin.’ There is more sockeye salmon here than anywhere else in the world. People and goods move by plane or boat among the 31 Indigenous villages that dot the land. Six major rivers and thousands of miles of tributary streams flow from tundra, forests, and mountains into Bristol Bay, and in 2019, this bay saw a run of salmon 56 million strong, the fourth largest on record, a wall of salmon. “Now, natives are worried about climate change which is warming the rivers and ocean, and the threat posed by Pebble Mine, owned by Northern Dynasty Minerals, which has been given a

green light in 2017 to search for investors to mine for copper, gold, and molybdenum, a silvery white metal. The current expanded mine plan would directly destroy over 43 miles of salmon streams and 25,000 acres of wetlands. Pebble Mine has become a household name in Alaska, synonymous with either golden opportunity or a ruinous future. Boosters say 2,000 jobs in construction and 850 in operations, but the specter of the mine’s harmful long-term effects on wild salmon has rattled many local tribes, the commercial fishing fleet, seafood processors, and the ecotourism businesses.”

St. James Book Group Tuesday, October 27, 7pm via Zoom In October, we’ll meet to discuss Jan-Philipp Sendker's novel The Art of Hearing Heartbeats. Contact Linda Rickert if you would like to join. This winter, we will read Olaf Olafsson's The Sacrament.

E-GIVING IS LIVE AT ST. JAMES! Open the camera on your smartphone and direct it to the image to the right. It will take you to the e-giving page: stjamespdx.org/egiving. You can also access the page from any internet enabled device (desktop or laptop computer, tablet, phone, etc.) or use the Give+ Church mobile app to donate.

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St. James “Bun Run” Becky Slapper reports that St. James “Bun Run” bakery donations and miscellaneous food items this past month have totaled 668 pounds. Not quite so many carts of food as in past months, thus a little more manageable when it comes to loading the car! The donations have been delivered to Shepherd’s Door, a division of the Portland Rescue Mission.

In Our Prayers For comfort, healing, and care: Ken Turner as he recovers from five broken ribs; Margie Lee (treatment for leukemia); Dennis Roggen (surgery); Bill Hamann (recovering from surgery at the VA in Vancouver, WA); Vicki Manning; LaVon

Holden; Roy Bolt; Jules Auger; Pastor Dorothy Cottingham; Bill and Sandra Arbaugh; TJ, sister-in-law of Sue McBerry; Ruthie, former student of Sue McBerry; Beth Boyce; Beth Lawson.

In Memoriam: Remembering Warren Cook June 16, 1946 - August 28, 2020 St. James member Warren Cook passed away this August. While attending the University of Portland, he found his beloved Charlotte after throwing a snowball at her and they remained a loving couple for 56 years. Warren, Charlotte, and son Albert joined St. James in 1996. Warren proudly served the Multnomah Country Sheriffs Office for 32 years and commanded each of the County’s jails at one time or another. He strongly believed in the power of rehabilitation and worked to incorporate this philosophy into their policies. Warren will be remembered for his dedication to and love for his family, friends, and God; his unfailing kindness; and his sense of justice.

October Birthdays and Anniversaries

Michael Lindner Laura Bueford Rose Ann Clementi David Ghetti Meaghan Wheeler Sage Reamer Jill Adams Kay Betton Larry & Linda Larsen

10/1 10/2 10/4 10/12 10/12 10/13 10/14 10/17 10/18

Kenneth Turner George McCargar Rose Yunusa Vakkai Jules & Carol Auger Julie Hatch Dennis Roggen Camden Schobert Kathy Grabill

10/19 10/23 10/24 10/24 10/26 10/27 10/27 10/28

St. James Art Group The Art Group is proud to show the collaborative work of photography, art and writing by St. James members collected by Margie Antico, our Artist of the Month. Margie worked countless hours arranging this exhibit which is based on members’ reaction to the pandemic. The exhibit is called The Pandemic Chronicles. Find it on our website: stjamespdx.org/life/groups/visual-artists-group/.

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1315 SW Park Ave

Portland, OR 97201

www.stjamespdx.org

Office Hours: 7:30am-2pm

Tel: 503.227.2439

Fax: 503.227.0856

St. James Lutheran Church 1315 SW Park Ave Portland OR 97201

STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Full Time:

Pastor: David Knapp Becky Bolt, President

Patrick Earnest, Director, Child Dev. Center David Scott, Vice President

Part Time: Kathleen McDonald, Secretary

Karin Hatch, M.S., Parish Administrator Paula Veseth, Treasurer

Sharon Kurtz, Bookkeeper

Lillian Vellom, Receptionist/Building Assistant

Michael Lindner, Interim Music Director

Mike Horsfall, Director of Jazz Ministry

Scott Keane, RN, Foot Care Clinic

Lucy Knopf, Sunday Childcare Coordinator

St. James shares God’s inclusive and eternal love with everyone