Greetings in Christ! Except for the rain which is steadily drizzling on my office window, the signs of the season show summer is here.  Those signs include the glad shouts of a myriad of young children and their leaders on site for Vacation Bible School, along with a few boxes still to be put away from Confirmation Camp and the planning sheet which has yet to be filled out for the Clearwater Fly fishing trip.  At home the signs of summer include kayaking and hiking gear our and intermingled with the tools and materials involved in the ongoing remodel of our home.  

What are your signs of summer?  Whatever those may be, my hope and prayer for you is that this be a season of refreshment, recreation, and renewal.

Also on my desk are signs of the season to come, for there are books, lists, and calendars.  The books are in preparation for several classes, the lists involve what needs to be done between now and the beginning date of the fall schedule, and the calendars…well, they’re just part of life…

As you look to the season to come, there are a few dates I’d like you to keep in mind.  The first is our church picnic, Sunday, August 26th.  The picnic is shared with the members of Grace Chinese Lutheran Church and is a great combination of good food, great fellowship, water sports, and worship.  The details are elsewhere in this newsletter, but, please, make plans now to participate.

The next date is Sunday, September 16th, Rally Day.  Rally Day is the first day of Sunday School an exciting time in our life together.  The kick-off of a new year in faith formation will include a new opportunity for adults. Joy Skaardal and I will be leading an in-depth study of the book of Jeremiah on Sunday evenings.

From 6:15-7:15p on Sunday evenings, following dinner and just prior to First Night worship, we will be working our way through the book of the prophet Jeremiah.  This is an exciting opportunity for Joy and I, as we believe the prophet’s exhortations to ancient Israel will also speak clearly to contemporary living as disciples of Christ.

That’s it!  Enjoy this great season of renewal.

See you wherever the Church may be!

John LaMunyon
Lead Pastor 

Wisdom, power, treasure, healing, and more are what we will wrestle with this month in worship.  WISDOM, because God’s wisdom is always higher than our knowledge.  POWER, because those who have it, often don’t recognize the difference between power and authority, and confusing the two can have disastrous consequences.  TREASURE, because it seems every age lives in the quest of it.  And  HEALING because that’s what Jesus did.  Healed people.

On second thought, the reason we’ll wrestle with all of these in worship this month is because Jesus said it, and we’re not always comfortable with what Jesus says.  Especially when it comes after he’s said, Come, follow me. 

Also, be sure to grab the Gospel Box.  Fill it with your inspired scripture reflections.

Click here to read more about worship in August
 

So as you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but chosen and priceless in God's sight, you yourselves, as living stones, are built up as a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood and to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:4-5

Growing up, prayer was the thing.  I mean it was the thing we did before everything else.  Before we ate, before a trip, before a new school year, before a big decision, before we could go on after a fight we prayed.  According to my mom everywhere we went was “prayer safe.”  As a teenager I recall being embarrassed as my mom deemed the grocery store as the place to lift up a prayer.  (Imagine the damage to my reputation!)

From where I sit now I see my mom was right.  Prayer is the thing.  Honestly now, think about the time in the last week when you had a yearning for something more.  Maybe you mistook that yearning for hunger, but food wasn’t the answer.  Maybe you went outside in the sunshine or retreated inside to the television, but the yearning was still there.  Maybe you checked e-mail, called old friends, chased the kids, or just gave up trying to figure out what on earth could be amiss.   What were you missing?  Who were you missing?

In Prayer and Preaching Karl Barth wrote,
It is not possible for us to say, I will pray, or I will not pray, as if it were a question of pleasing ourselves; to be a Christian and to pray mean the same thing, and not a thing which can be left to our own wayward impulses.
 It is, rather, a necessity, as breathing is necessary to life.

So as the church, we will pray.  We will pray together.  We will pray for 24 hours straight.  From 7am August 25th to 7am August 26th we will pray.  We will pray at Sammamish Hills Lutheran Church.  We will pray with our voices through words and songs; we will pray in silence letting the voice of God ring clear; we will pray with our hands through drawings, poems, letters, and knitting; and we will pray with all that God created us to be.  We will pray for our families, our church, the year ahead, our community, our friends, our country, our world, and for everything else God puts on our hearts.

I need your help setting the room.  I need your help hosting times of prayer.  I need you to come and pray.  Before anything else, let us pray.

The Lord be with you,

Pr. Will

To register, download a registration form from Holden’s website (www.holdenvillage.org).  Make sure you mark on the form, “Sammamish Hills Men’s Work Retreat.”  The annual Men’s retreat provides a laid-back weekend at a high mountain retreat community where many of the men participate in a work project, while others simply enjoy the sights, go flyfishing, hiking, and even work in long naps.  If you’re interested, contact Pr. John at prjohn@shlc.org. 

Most of the participants take the boat in and out, but every year a few hardy souls hike into the Village.  This is not a hike for the novice.  There is serious elevation gain (+/- 4,000’ and 10 miles a day) and weather can always make the difference between a sweet hike and dangerous footing.  But, if you’re game, talk to Pr. John and he’ll share the details of this year’s hike.

For over sixty years—since 1946—Lutherhaven Ministries has been all about relationships...a place for children, teens, adults, families, congregations, and communities to grow in their relationship to Christ...a place for campers young and old to discover and rediscover what life in Jesus means.

From the deep blue waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene, reflecting the whispering pines at Camp Lutherhaven...

...to the cold, clear rivers at Shoshone Base Camp, rushing through the fir-clad Bitterroot Mountains...

...Lutherhaven Ministries has been blessed to serve the Inland Northwest at two of the most beautiful places in America.

Together, Camp Lutherhaven and Shoshone Base Camp promise to leave indelible, life-changing spiritual marks on the hearts of God’s people, as campers of all ages encounter creation…create community...and commune with Christ in these two fantastic places.

Through excellent facilities, celebrated programs and dedicated staff, Lutherhaven Ministries continues to proclaim the love of God in Jesus Christ as we strive to equip leaders, strengthen communities and celebrate creation!

Thanks to Sammamish Hills Lutheran Church for your gracious trust and support of Lutherhaven Ministries!

Building relationships...changing lives—and it feels like we've just begun!

If you want to know more about the ministries, please see Lutherhaven Ministries’ website: www.lutherhaven.com. 

To make a donation to the “Ministry of the Month”, please place contribution in a pew envelope and check the “Ministry of the Month” checkbox.

Fall Membership Classes Scheduled

Are you interested in joining Sammamish Hills Lutheran Church? There will be another opportunity this fall. Our Fall Discipleship Sunday will be on December 9, 2007.  Marks of Discipleship classes begin October 14th. You can find out more by visiting www.shlc.org  and clicking on Membership or talk with Pr. Will.
 

Interested in a a great weekend of fly fishing?  On great water?  With moose, elk, and a few other critters nearby?  August 31 to September 3^rd Pr. John and Michael Peterson will be hosting a congregational fly fishing trip to the North Fork of the Clearwater River in the region of the northern Idaho Panhandle.  Cost will be gas, community food, nonresident license, campground fees, and lost flies…  Any and all are invited.  The area features a variety of offerings, including a protected native Cutthroat stream. 

Breakfast and Dinner will be as a community, with Pr. John as camp cook. Group meals will start with dinner on September 1^st and end with a light and early breakfast on September 3^rd.  Michael is a certified fly fishing instructor and will happily offer lessons free of charge! 

For more information, contact either Michael (mtp1032@comcast.net) or Pr. John (prjohn@shlc.org).

THE FINE PRINT…in order to coordinate drivers, establish food numbers (and food budget), as well as determine the number of camp sites needed, the last day to sign up will be Sunday, August 26.  To sign up, email or call either Michael or Pr. John.

Study the book of Ezekiel on Wednesday nights 7:00pm-8:00pm August 22^nd through Nov 14 (no class on Oct 3^rd and 10^th).  Dan Bloomquist, who taught Ezekiel at Trinity Lutheran College, will be the teacher.  A kick-off dinner will be served at 6:00pm on August 22nd.  If you have any questions regarding the study, please contact Dan Bloomquist at 425-369-8339. If you are planning on joining us for dinner, please contact  Mya Riskedahl (myariskedahl@ihmail.com).

Are you a 20 to Mid-30 something looking to meet some fun new people?  Come join us!  Currently we gather on a monthly basis to connect and enjoy a fun activity.

Don’t miss Tuesday morning bible studies this summer! – That’s right we’re hanging out with Jesus and His word this summer on Tuesday mornings at the Eastlake Drive-Thru Starbucks at 10am through August 21st.  It is a come-when-you-can type of gathering; you won’t want to miss it! 

Wild on Wednesday (WOW) events continue through August! – Join us for incredible fun this summer every Wednesday night from 7:00-8:30p through August 22^nd! 

• August 1^st – CANCELED

• August 8^th – Movie Night at SHLC

• August 15^th – Bigger N’ Better at SHLC

• August 22^nd – Boating on Lake Sammamish.

Forms, Directions and what to bring are available at SHLC.org

Prayers needed for our mission teams!  Please lift up the group of over 40 students and adults our congregation is sending out to share God’s love this summer.  Not sure what to pray for?  Try asking God for:

• Hearts opened to God's love

• Protection during travel

• Incredible spiritual growth for all involved

• Powerful demonstration of the Spirit's power

• An increased excitement about SHLC's mission to reach the world

Even though you may not be boarding a bus or getting on a plane this summer, you are still one of the most important members of the mission team.  THANK YOU for equipping us and sending us out with your prayers!

Wanted:  Fun Family Campers!  Looking to get away this summer?  Interested in getting to know members of your church family better?  Come to the family campout August 17^th-19^th at Mossyrock state park!  We’ll be boating, hiking, swimming, worshipping, and of course eating together and just hanging out for a relaxing weekend!  Contact Amanda Forbes for more information!

Important Summer 2007 Dates:
Tuesday Morning Summer bible study at 10am
Wild on Wednesday events running through August 22^nd!
Mission trip to Yakima – July 29^th-August 3^rd, 2007
Mission trip to China – August 1^st-12^th, 2007
Family Camp Out – August 17-19^th, 2007
Annual Church Picnic – August 26, 2007

Middle School & Confirmation News
Click Above to see more!

By Brelin Rismiller, Director of Middle School
& Confirmation Ministries

We just returned from Confirmation Camp this past week, and we had a really great time!!  There were a total of 60 of us, learning more about what it means to belong, believe, and become.  We learned that every good and perfect gift comes from above… we are made in God’s image, and Christ delights in us.

We got to hear great faith stories from our counselors, as they shared what has made a difference in their relationship with God over the past few years.  We also got to sing silly songs around the campfire, watch a skit telling about the “real” Harry Potter, as well as doing some rock climbing, zip lining, inner tubing, and learning survival skills from our very own veteran.

The food was terrific, the bus ride was full of dancing and movie watching, and the sessions with Pr. John were fun too!  We learned a lot about breathing… things that we can breathe in, and letting go of the things that we need God to handle without us.

The long weekend was wonderful, and you’ll have to mark your calendars for next summer, July 30-August 2, 2008 so that you can all join us!!

We returned late Sunday night, and then I quickly switched gears, as I became a guide to a group of ten 4 & 5 year olds.  We had a whole bunch of terrific adventures, as we learned that God is real, with us, and strong!!  I’m not sure which are more exhausting—60 middle schoolers or 10 preschool kids!

Thank you so much for the opportunity to minister alongside you all at Sammamish Hills Lutheran Church. It is a joy and a privilege to walk along this holy ground with your students!!

All are welcome,

Brelin Rismiller

MARK YOUR CALENDARS WITH THESE DATES!!

WOW- Wild On Wednesday summer events open to students entering 6-12 grades.  Each event is happening on Wednesday nights from 7-8:30 pm through August 22.

Summer Bible Study continues on Tuesday mornings from 10-11 am at Eastlake Drive-Thru Starbucks.  We are looking forward to a great time!!

Yakima Mission Trip July 29-August 3… we could use your prayers as we head to the Yakima Indian Reservation to serve the community there.  We’ll be doing Vacation Bible School as well as painting houses and doing some clean up in the neighborhood.

Confirmation Registration Packets will be available at the beginning of August.  They will be available in the church office as well as being mailed out with a parent letter in the middle of the month.

Confirmation & DAWG Pound (our 6^th grade ministry) kick off on Sunday, September 16^th and Wednesday, September 19^th.

If you have questions about any middle school or confirmation ministry activities, please contact Brelin Rismiller at brelin@shlc.org

Children’s Sunday School                                           (Ages 3 years to 5^th grade)Sunday School is over for the Summer.  We begin the 2007-2008 year on September 16th.  Registration materials can be found out in the narthex.   A special thank you to all of our wonderful 2006-2007 teachers.  Thanks for all of your hard work and creativity.  You made the Bible come to life for our kids. 

Interested in helping out with Sunday School in the fall?  We’d love to have you join our team.  Our team consists of teachers, assistants, substitutes, administrative helpers, and supply shoppers.  Teachers are needed for all grades at both the 8:30 and 10:00 am services. We work with your schedule and desired commitment level.  Teacher training will be held on Sunday, September 9th. 

Kid’s Church has Changed!
Can you stump Pastor John or Pastor Will?  Introducing the Gospel Box, the newest change to each Sunday’s Kid’s Church time.  Every week, one child or family will present to our pastors the Gospel Box.  Inside of it,  they have placed an object related to our gospel lesson.  During Kid’s Church our pastors will open the box and have to talk about the object and how it relates to our gospel reading for the day on the spot!  This is a fun way for families to get involved in our Sunday morning service.  Have your kids raise their hands after kids church, or sign up on the Worship Registration form, to take the Gospel Box home and fill it up for next weeks message.  The only requirement… you have to be at service the following week. 

Family Camping Trip:  August 17-19th Bring your RV or tent and come join us as we take in a weekend of outdoor fun and fellowship at Mossy Rock Park. This is a beautiful park located southeast of us, near Centralia.  The park is situated on a fabulous lake with all the amenities from showers to beaches, a boat launch and swimming hole.  The weekend will be packed with wonderful planned and unplanned activities for you and your family.  So whether you just want to relax by the campfire or are the active type who loves games, boating or hiking you’ll find it all here.  No experience is necessary but be prepared to have a great time, meet new friends and make memories to last a lifetime.  Morning devotions, evening campfires, and a Sunday service led by Pastor John will also be part of the activities. 
Cost Per Site: (8 people maximum per site)
$38 — non electrical (1 tent or RV)
$46 — electrical (1 tent or RV)
$50 — electrical (1 RV and 1 Tent)

Pick up a brochure in the narthex, the church office or download it online.  Register by August 5th.  Space is limited, so don’t delay. Questions, contact Amanda at Amanda@shlc.org.

Summer Time Fun at Toddler Time Join us for a time of outdoor group play and fellowship every Wednesday starting June 1st at Toddler Time.  This is an opportunity for kids (ages 1 to 5)  to play in our preschool playground and for mom’s to connect with one another.  Older siblings are also welcome.  Wednesdays from 9:30—11:00 am.  Invite your friends!

The Church Picnic is Coming! Mark your calendars and plan to join us at our annual church picnic on Sunday, August 26th.  At Lake Sammamish State Park, we start the morning off with an outdoor worship service at 10:00 am.  Last year’s picnic was filled with great food, fun games, good fellowship.  This year we expect to repeat the experience.  Children can enjoy some group games and our bouncy house.  Adults, join in by playing volleyball, getting involved in the kids activities, or by catching up with others.  There will be something for everyone!

Summer Time Strolls
Mom… Interested in getting out for a walk?  How about meeting other moms?  Join us on Mondays at 10:00 am for a little exercise with your kids.  Contact Amanda for more information.  Starts July 23rd.  

Family BBQ and Ice Cream Social
Join us on Friday August 3rd at our BBQ and Ice Cream Social.  The festivities will begin at 5:30 pm with a hotdog and hamburger dinner.   Games and Ice Cream to follow.  Bring your favorite ice cream topping to share!

Avalanche Ranch, our Vacation Bible School was held from July 16^th to the 20^th.  This summer we had the privilege of ministering to over 150 children from 2 years old to 5^th grade.  Each morning during the week, children participated in worship, learned Bible stories, played games, and had a great time making some wonderful crafts.  Through these activities, we taught that God is Real, With Us, Strong, Awesome, and In Charge. Our mission project for the week was making soft teddy bears. These teddy bears, 150 total, will go to Africa where a child will receive the gift along with a story book teaching them about God’s love.  Thanks to the 70+ volunteers who made this year’s VBS such a success. God used each of you to speak love and acceptance into our students lives.

Important Dates:

• August 3rd:  Family Fun Activity

• August 17-19th  Family Camping Trip

• August 26th:  Family Picnic

by Muffie Namie, Director of SHL Preschool

August is such a great month!   Typically I see people trying to cram in as much outdoor time and family fun that they can!  For my family it is the month when we stay close to home and enjoy the fabulous weather we finally can count on – with hikes, picnics at the beach and lots of day trips to fun places!  For those of you with little children it can tend to be a time when anxieties begin to mount as you anticipate the beginning of a new school year and lots of new experiences for your little one and yourself!  For the new preschool parents it is a time riddled with mixed emotions.  You look forward to seeing your little one grow to become a social and well balanced child who is discovering there is more to discover out in the world.  But at the same time it’s a time of holding fast to what you hold so dear - the special place that your little one has held in your heart as you’ve nurtured and loved him with never ending devotion. 

What is so amazing is that this has been going on from the beginning of time and none of these emotions we feel are new to God.  He knows our excitement and he knows our reservations.  He understands our joys and He grieves with us in our sorrow.  Think of Adam and Eve as they watched their new world and life change before their eyes with the birth of their children – what a picture to behold.  Think of Hannah who prayed and wept tears as she asked God for a child only to promise to give her child back to God and to His service – another picture to behold.  Think of Mary who was told she would give birth to her Savior and King only to watch Him be crucified for the sins of all mankind – a difficult picture to behold, but true.

I believe that’s why the bible is full of encouragement for us when we face these anxious times in our lives.  That’s why Philippians 4:6-7 is such an important passage to cling to:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

When I was young my mama didn’t approve when I would borrow clothes from my girlfriends.  I guess in the same way, God doesn’t want us to “wear” what doesn’t belong to us, either!  When you’re tempted to “wear” stress about your child’s teacher this fall, Paul says “pray about it.”  When you “wear” anxieties over whether your little one will be potty trained or emotionally ready to start preschool, pray about it!  And what do we get as a free gift in return?  PEACE!  The blessed peace that guards our hearts and minds and helps us find the joy all around us.

If you have a preschooler and you’re still looking for a place this fall, we’d love to have you join us at SHLP!  Please contact Muffie at 425.392.7799 ext. 29 for more information about our program.  And then go enjoy your summer in peace!

• Church Council Meeting Minutes- 05/08/2007

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