Updates Beginning 15 March 2026

The Adult Faith Development class continues its Lenten journey through Palm Sunday, 3/29, using the resource Entering the Passion of Jesus:  A Beginner's Guide to Holy Week by Amy-Jill Levine.  It is not necessary to purchase the study book, but if desired, please consider purchasing it from bookshop.org.  If you buy from them, a portion of the proceeds goes to local, independent bookstores. Our schedule will be:

Today, 3/15—The First Dinner:  Risking Rejection (Mark 14:3-9)
3/22—The Last Supper: Risking the Loss of Friends (Luke 22:14-27, John 13:1-16)
3/29—Gethsemane:  Risking Temptation (Mark 14:32-52, John 18:1-11)

Please come join us as it will deepen your Easter celebration! ~Jane Voelkel, for the AFD Team

Midweek Lent Soup Supper & Bible Study continues this Wednesday in the Fellowship Hall through 25 March. We’ll begin at 6pm with a table grace, share soup and conversation, and then around 6:45pm begin Bible Study.  We are using the Body of Christ, ELCA Sumud 2026 Lent Devotional Series (found at https://resources.elca.org/), which focuses on our siblings in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.  Our time will be wrapped in song and prayer and we’ll be on our way around 8pm.  A sign-up poster for setup/cleanup and food is in the Welcome Center.  I look forward to our time together!  Peace, Pr. Koppel

Hope everyone at church is able to make it! ~Rado Josoa

Campus Cleanup 28 March, 9am-Noon. Come out to help beautify our campus before Holy Week starts! There will be an indoor team polishing the pews and cleaning windows in the Welcome Center, and another working outside to rake up leaves and pick up trash. Pizza when we wrap up. We have supplies here for inside cleanup but if you choose to work outdoors, please bring your work gloves and rakes. Please email info@stpaulabq.org if you can make it that day. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Dalton Pearson

March’s God’s Work Our Hands project is raising funds to provide the First Thursday Friends Feeding Friends meal at HopeWorks in April. Please write FFF in the memo line when donating. And a huge thank you! to everyone who made Thursday’s Luther House/Open Table Connection meal so memorable for the students. Pastor Rhonda sends her thanks. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Mark Your Calendars: Sunday, 19 April is our Spring Congregational Meeting immediately following worship in Fellowship Hall. We will enjoy an ice cream social as part of our gathering. ~Deborah Ash

Seeking Church Council Nominees. Would you be interested in serving as a member of St. Paul’s church council? This is a 3-year commitment, with meetings at 1pm on the third Sunday of each month. Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to serve, and feel free to speak to one of the current members (names and photos are posted in the Welcome Center), or Pastor Koppel. A job description is available by writing me at info@stpaulabq.org. Thank you for your consideration. ~Deborah Ash, for Nominating Committee

Annual Malagasy Girls’ Camp Fundraiser Saturday, 30 May at Noon: Mark your calendars now to come enjoy a wonderful Malagasy meal and presentation by Rijasoa Andriamanana about the summer camp for girls in Madagascar. Donations go to support this immersive program for girls who attend from throughout the country. ~Deborah Ash

Our new Ministries Booklet is posted on St. Paul’s website at: stpaulabq.org/ and is available in the Welcome Center. ~Deborah Ash

Beauty for Ashes, a Lenten devotional by the ELCA Homeless and Justice Network, is available in the Welcome Center, in addition to several others. ~Deborah Ash

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

A Candlelight Vigil, in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors, will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 812 Edith Blvd. NE, next Sunday, March 22, 6:00-7:00 p.m. We invite you to join us, or to host a vigil at your church, on this date and time. We do this in solidarity with singing resistance groups throughout our nation, and around the world, who are saying NO to the cruelty of government actions towards refugees, immigrants, the displaced, and those held in detention centers. We stand in solidarity with those killed or injured while exercising their constitutional and human right to protest. Future vigils are planned for the Sunday closest to Summer Solstice, Fall Equinox, and Winter Solstice. . . “♪and the world is about to turn. . . ♪”
Vigil supported by Pastors of the Presbytery of Santa Fe and church leaders.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Curry Issues Statement on Iran War:

Dear siblings in Christ,

They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation; neither shall they learn war any more (Isaiah 2:4).

In our Lenten journey, we are reminded of our dependence on God, and we are sustained by hope in the future peace God has promised. As war involving the United States, Israel and Iran intensifies and spreads, we lament how far off that promise seems. We do not know how many people have been killed, but we know the number will continue to grow. Early reports indicate that more than 100 Iranian schoolgirls and several U.S. service members are among them.

The church of Jesus Christ is called to proclaim the peace of God’s eternal reign and to work for an earthly peace here and now. The ELCA social message “Living in a Time of Terrorism” states that this earthly peace is a “precious yet fragile good.” Its existence depends on leaders who prioritize diplomacy over military engagement and deterrence over war, and on citizens who hold government accountable whenever military action is considered.

With many of you, I am distressed that a robust, public discernment through congressional authorization did not occur prior to the United States’ engagement in this war. As Lutherans, we affirm that government and the order that just laws provide are gifts of God for our safety and well-being. This war does not represent the promotion of this just order but rather its failure. 

The costs in lives and safety of this failure will be borne by those least able to avoid it — children, families and those without the means to flee.  Its deadly toll has been, and will continue to be, paid with the lives of our neighbors, including our siblings in Christ in the Middle East. 

This moment underscores the urgent need for robust, well-resourced diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. Our companions in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land have asked our church to pray fervently for peace and safety and to advocate for the dignity and security of all people. ELCA Witness in Society will continue to provide opportunities for this advocacy.

As members of the body of Christ, join me in prayerful, hopeful solidarity with our siblings and neighbors who suffer today.

Together,
We mourn the rush to war and the combatants and noncombatants who have lost their lives.
We yearn for creation’s fulfillment in “a new heaven and a new earth” where death and pain “will be no more” (Revelation 21:1, 4).
We strive for justice and peace in all the earth, strengthened by faith in the crucified and risen Lord to persist.
We trust that, through God who sustains us, our weariness and fear will not overcome us.

In Christ,

The Rev. Yehiel Curry
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

ELCA Advocacy Alert: Protect Dreamers. The ELCA has long supported protections for people brought to the United States as children, known as “Dreamers.” Dreamers are integral members of our families, churches and communities, yet for decades have lived in limbo without the long-term solution of permanent legal status and a pathway to citizenship. For over 525,000 Dreamers, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides work authorization and should protect recipients from deportation, but the program has been largely closed to new applicants since 2017, leaving many individuals without even these temporary and limited protections.

In 2001, Congress first introduced the Dream Act, which would provide permanent legal status and a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. The bipartisan bill was reintroduced last year by Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) as the Dream Act of 2025. The American Dream and Promise Act introduced last year in the House would provide protections for Dreamers and recipients of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED).

Support for protections for Dreamers is particularly urgent as DACA recipients have been detained and in some cases deported, separated from their families and the only home some have ever known. Take action at the ELCA Advocacy Action Center and sign up to receive alerts directly: https://act.elca.org/page/56774/action/1?chain

The 2026 Hunger Challenge will end on March 20! Your generous support will feed God's children who are starving and are becoming sicker and weaker by the day. When you share your blessings today, you'll save a hungry family from starving to death and give children the chance to grow and thrive. Visit https://lwr.org/

Updates Beginning 8 March 2026

The Adult Faith Development class continues its Lenten journey through Palm Sunday, 3/29, using the resource Entering the Passion of Jesus:  A Beginner's Guide to Holy Week by Amy-Jill Levine.  It is not necessary to purchase the study book, but if desired, please consider purchasing it from bookshop.org.  If you buy from them, a portion of the proceeds goes to local, independent bookstores. Our schedule will be:

Today, 3/8—The Temple:  Risking Righteous Anger (Mark 11:15-19)

3/15—The First Dinner:  Risking Rejection (Mark 14:3-9)

3/22—The Last Supper: Risking the Loss of Friends (Luke 22:14-27, John 13:1-16)

3/29—Gethsemane:  Risking Temptation (Mark 14:32-52, John 18:1-11)

Please come join us as it will deepen your Easter celebration! ~Jane Voelkel, for the AFD Team

Midweek Lent Soup Supper & Bible Study continues this Wednesday in the Fellowship Hall through 25 March. We’ll begin at 6pm with a table grace, share soup and conversation, and then around 6:45pm begin Bible Study.  We are using the Body of Christ, ELCA Sumud 2026 Lent Devotional Series (found at https://resources.elca.org/), which focuses on our siblings in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.  Our time will be wrapped in song and prayer and we’ll be on our way around 8pm.  A sign-up poster for setup/cleanup and food is in the Welcome Center.  I look forward to our time together!  Peace, Pr. Koppel

Hope everyone at church is able to make it! ~Rado Josoa

Campus Cleanup 28 March, 9am-Noon. Come out to help beautify our campus before Holy Week starts! There will be an indoor team polishing the pews and cleaning windows in the Welcome Center, and another working outside to rake up leaves and pick up trash. Pizza when we wrap up. We have supplies here for inside cleanup but if you choose to work outdoors, please bring your work gloves and rakes. Please email info@stpaulabq.org if you can make it that day. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Dalton Pearson

March’s God’s Work Our Hands project is raising funds to provide the First Thursday Friends Feeding Friends meal at HopeWorks in April. Please write FFF in the memo line when donating. And a huge thank you! to everyone who made Thursday’s Luther House/Open Table Connection meal so memorable for the students. Pastor Rhonda sends her thanks. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Mark Your Calendars: Sunday, 19 April is our Spring Congregational Meeting immediately following worship in Fellowship Hall. We will enjoy an ice cream social as part of our gathering. ~Deborah Ash

Seeking Church Council Nominees. Would you be interested in serving as a member of St. Paul’s church council? This is a 3-year commitment, with meetings at 1pm on the third Sunday of each month. Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to serve, and feel free to speak to one of the current members (names and photos are posted in the Welcome Center), or Pastor Koppel. A job description is available by writing me at info@stpaulabq.org. Thank you for your consideration. ~Deborah Ash, for Nominating Committee

Annual Malagasy Girls’ Camp Fundraiser Saturday, 30 May at Noon: Mark your calendars now to come enjoy a wonderful Malagasy meal and presentation by Rijasoa Andriamanana about the summer camp for girls in Madagascar. Donations go to support this immersive program for girls who attend from throughout the country. ~Deborah Ash

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

A Candlelight Vigil, in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors, will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 812 Edith Blvd. NE, on Sunday, March 22, 6:00-7:00 p.m. We invite you to join us, or to host a vigil at your church, on this date and time. We do this in solidarity with singing resistance groups throughout our nation, and around the world, who are saying NO to the cruelty of government actions towards refugees, immigrants, the displaced, and those held in detention centers. We stand in solidarity with those killed or injured while exercising their constitutional and human right to protest. Future vigils are planned for the Sunday closest to Summer Solstice, Fall Equinox, and Winter Solstice. . . “♪and the world is about to turn. . . ♪”

Vigil supported by Pastors of the Presbytery of Santa Fe and church leaders.

From Luther House: Ash Wednesday has a way of catching us right in the middle of real life—between classes, meetings, errands, and everything in between. That’s exactly what happened at the University of New Mexico, as Ashes on the Go met students and passersby at the duck pond and inside the Student Union Building with a simple invitation: “Get your ash over here!”
          Pastor Rhonda shares that Ashes on the Go was a gift-filled day at UNM, with special thanks to Erica Lea-Simka and Lucas Grubbs for showing up with ecumenical love alongside LuMin (ELCA Lutheran Campus Ministry Network), Open Table NM, the Rocky Mountain Synod (ELCA), and the Southwest Conference UCC.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

A Letter from Bishop Meghan:

“They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.” (Isaiah 2:4)

Beloved in Christ,

I’m writing from just outside of Chicago, where I have gathered with the other 65 bishops of the ELCA, including our Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry, for a week of prayerful discernment and decision-making in our work as the ELCA Conference of Bishops together.

Over the past week, following the U.S./Israeli attack on Iran and Iran’s retaliation throughout the Middle East, many of us have watched with a mixture of horror and weariness at what feels on the one hand like yet another chapter in an endless story of war, and on the other like a threshold crossed to a new, frightening reality—the outcome, timeline, and scope of which are completely unknown.

My family and I anxiously scan the news each day and night to learn where missiles and shrapnel have landed, relieved when the names of affected villages and neighborhoods do not include the places where our family and friends live, and yet devastated to hear of loss of life everywhere: more than 100 children dead and buried in the rubble of a girls’ school in Minab, Iran; nine killed in Beit Shemesh, a suburb of Jerusalem; rising reports of casualties at U.S. military bases and embassy buildings; and in the West Bank, under cover of war, Palestinian farmers killed by emboldened Israeli settlers, with no accountability in sight.

Having lived and served in Jerusalem, I know something of how endless occupation and war have affected the real lives of real people I know in Palestine and Israel. I know very little about Iran, besides what any of us can access via media sources; but I do know that this war is affecting not just numbers, or a faceless “enemy,” but the real lives of real people with names, families, stories, and the same right to live as you or I. The burden of war always falls disproportionately on the most vulnerable: on the very young and the very old, on those too ill or poor or powerless to leave, who are snatched by the jaws of violence and the hunger and disease that follow. And, despite the puffed-up rhetoric of war—the assurances that this violence, this time, will bring peace and prosperity—the truth is that violence begets violence. It is impossible to bomb our way to peace.

My friend and colleague Bishop Imad Haddad, of our partner Lutheran church in the Holy Land, writes powerfully of this reality with Gospel conviction:

“We must speak with moral clarity: the continued decision to resort to war is a failure of human responsibility before God. Each new escalation tightens the grip of dread, deepens the lived reality of siege, and further constricts the space in which human dignity can breathe. Political calculations and security arguments must never be allowed to eclipse the sacred worth of human life. From our Palestinian Christian context, we affirm without hesitation: life, not death, is God’s choice for humanity.”

The children of our world, who will inherit the devastating and long-lasting consequences of this war, deserve better than this. The people of Iran, many of whom longed for freedom under an oppressive government, deserve more than to become scapegoats or mascots to justify a military onslaught carried out with little apparent plan or concern for what happens to them afterwards. The U.S. servicemembers who risk their lives to protect and defend their nation, including members of our congregations and military chaplains of our church, deserve more than to have this sacrifice squandered.

As followers of Jesus, what is our response? I am alarmed to hear developing news reports that allege some U.S. military commanders have framed the U.S. attacks on Iran as “all part of God’s divine plan,” connected these actions to biblical accounts of Armageddon, and suggested that President Trump was “anointed by Jesus” to bring about Jesus’ return. The idea that the U.S. is the agent of God, that this war is a holy war, is a clear example of Christian nationalism: a dangerous form of idolatry that pretends to uplift Christianity and encourage pride in citizenship, but actually redirects our faith and allegiance from the God of Jesus Christ to the nation itself, and to particular political leaders. Our Lutheran tradition calls us to speak the truth and to call a thing what it is: this is sin.

In an urgent plea from the battered Holy Land, Bishop Haddad calls us to the way of Jesus:

“Yet from this land we call holy, wounded yet steadfast, we refuse the temptation of despair. With the prophet Isaiah, we raise our voice with renewed urgency: “They shall learn war no more.” We remain committed to preaching the Gospel of reconciliation entrusted to us, the good news that through Christ, God reconciles humanity to Godself and calls us to the hard and holy work of reconciliation with one another. Dear partners, we urge you: pray, and pray fervently. But do not let prayer become a substitute for responsibility. Let your prayers be joined with courageous and concrete action. Stand publicly with those who are afflicted. Advocate persistently for a just peace that safeguards the dignity and security of all people. Challenge policy makers whose narratives make endless war appear inevitable.

In this Lenten season, remembering Jesus who refused violence and vengeance and who suffered, died, and rose to break cycles of endless retribution, may God grant us the courage, in truth and in steadfastness, to answer this call in the ways we can, in the places we are.

In Christ,
Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni

The 2026 Hunger Challenge will end on March 20! Your generous support will feed God's children who are starving and are becoming sicker and weaker by the day. When you share your blessings today, you'll save a hungry family from starving to death and give children the chance to grow and thrive.

Urgent Middle East Update from LWR: With your support, Lutheran World Relief has two highly skilled teams working together to rush support to children and families who need it most:

• Our Humanitarian Action team, which manages our response to emergencies all over the world.

• Our team in Lebanon, which has been our base for operations in the region for nearly a decade.

As families flee and seek safety, our goal is to meet them with compassion and critical aid, including:

• Nourishing food

• Clean drinking water 

• Essential supplies, like generator fuel to support emergency shelters

• And more. 

We expect that our response will expand over time as the situation develops.

Visit https://lwr.org/

Updates Beginning 1 March 2026

The Adult Faith Development class will be transitioning into Lent through Palm Sunday, 3/29, using the resource Entering the Passion of Jesus:  A Beginner's Guide to Holy Week by Amy-Jill Levine.  It is not necessary to purchase the study book, but if desired, please consider purchasing it from bookshop.org.  If you buy from them, a portion of the proceeds goes to local, independent bookstores.

Our schedule will be:

Today, 3/1—What Is Lent?
3/8—The Temple:  Risking Righteous Anger (Mark 11:15-19)
3/15—The First Dinner:  Risking Rejection (Mark 14:3-9)
3/22—The Last Supper:  Risking the Loss of Friends (Luke 22:14-27, John 13:1-16)
3/29—Gethsemane:  Risking Temptation (Mark 14:32-52, John 18:1-11)

Please come join us as it will deepen your Easter celebration! ~Jane Voelkel, for the AFD Team

Lenten Devotionals: In the Welcome Center you will find this year’s lenten devotional from Augsburg Fortress, Love Outpoured, plus a couple of others from Bread for the World, Walking as Children of the Light, and from ReconcilingWorks, Of Justice, Liberation, and Flourishing.

Midweek Lent Soup Supper & Bible Study continues this Wednesday in the Fellowship Hall through 25 March. (Come see our renovated kitchen!)  We’ll begin at 6pm with a table grace, share soup and conversation, and then around 6:45pm begin Bible Study.  We are using the Body of Christ, ELCA Sumud 2026 Lent Devotional Series (found at https://resources.elca.org/), which focuses on our siblings in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.  Our time will be wrapped in song and prayer and we’ll be on our way around 8pm.  A sign-up poster for setup/cleanup and food is in the Welcome Center.  I look forward to our time together!  Peace, Pr. Koppel

Making Sense of the Cross is an excellent study written by David Lose.  Lose has a real knack for using everyday language to help bring understanding to difficult theological ponderings, such as why was Jesus crucified.  This six-session study will begin 16 April (Thursdays) from 1:30 - 3pm and meet in the Conference Room.  If you'd like to participate via ZOOM, please let us know so we can set that up.  And you'll likely want the participant book, which costs about $20 new or $5 used.  If you want St. Paul to order it for you, please let us know by 27 March. ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

2026 is a new year of giving to St. Paul and its ministries. Regarding the old year just completed, your 2025 GIVING STATEMENT is available if you would like it for your income tax preparation. All you need to do is send an email to finsec@stpaulabq.org or you can call me at (505) 363-2284. Happy New Year of giving! ~Paula Eglinton

March’s God’s Work Our Hands project is raising funds to provide the

First Thursday Friends Feeding Friends meal at HopeWorks in April. Please write FFF in the memo line when donating. And a huge thank you! to everyone who made Thursday’s Luther House/Open Table Connection meal so memorable for the students. Pastor Rhonda sends her thanks. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Offer your time in the SACRISTY…..what does this mean? If you can arrive an hour early and/or stay 15-20 minutes after the worship service once a month – the rest will fall in place! The Sacristy is just a storage for all things, precious, used in our worship service. The work is to set the table, prepare the wash station, fill and setthe elements for communion, and prepare the candle carts and font for service. After care involves removing the altar dressing and paraments – hanging them, folding them and packing the communion supplies for use next week. Training is easy and once you have the essentials of what to do, this becomes a peaceful ritual of preparation. We have two members who are regulars for this detail and we would love to have more. It would be wonderful to have a rotation that is shared. If you are interested in talking through this contribution, ask Diane Remer-Thamert, Julie Ambrogi  or Pastor Kristi. Schedules are easy to work around. ~Julie Ambrogi

Lawn Mowing: We are looking for a second volunteer for mowing of the Calico play areas once the warm weather hits and it's time to mow again. We have one volunteer currently and it helps if there are two. It is an easy half hour to forty-five minute task with our electric mower. ~Deborah Ash

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

This Wednesday:

This Friday: Church Women United-World Day of Prayer. CWU, an ecumenical Christian women's group, is observing the World Day of Prayer on Friday, March 6th at Second Presbyterian Church, 812 Edith Blvd NE.  The day will begin at 9:30 a.m. with coffee fellowship, followed by the service at 10:00.  The theme is “I Will Give You Rest, Come.”  Each year, a different country serves as the writer of the worship service.  This year the service is written by the women of Nigeria.  It promises to be unique!  Come…and bring a friend!

A Candlelight Vigil, in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors, will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 812 Edith Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM, on Sunday, March 22, 6:00-7:00 p.m. We invite you to join us, or to host a vigil at your church, on this date and time. We do this in solidarity with singing resistance groups throughout our nation, and around the world, who are saying NO to the cruelty of government actions towards refugees, immigrants, the displaced, and those held in detention centers. We stand in solidarity with those killed or injured while exercising their constitutional and human right to protest. Future vigils are planned for the Sunday closest to Summer Solstice, Fall Equinox, and Winter Solstice. . . “♪and the world is about to turn. . . ♪”

Vigil supported by Pastors of the Presbytery of Santa Fe and church leaders.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From AMMPARO: See the  "deeper understandings" article in the February 2026 Living Lutheran. It offers examples from MN and mentions ISAIAH (the interfaith community organizing movement: https://www.isaiahmn.org/). https://www.livinglutheran.org/theology-beliefs/bearing-witness-by-serving-my-neighbor/

Urge Congress to support and fully fund the bipartisan Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025. Congress is considering the Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 3552), a piece of bipartisan legislation that strengthens reentry programs for persons returning from incarceration to reduce recidivism, support successful reintegration and keep families together. The proposed legislation funds job training, substance use treatment, mental health services, housing support, mentoring and faith-based community partnerships that help individuals who are returning from incarceration rebuild their lives.

Reentry is a matter of public safety, economic stability and human dignity. When people have access to employment, housing and supportive services, they are far less likely to return to prison. Communities are stronger when families are reunited, and individuals have a real opportunity for redemption and restoration.

"Significant challenges and problems continue for offenders following release from prison," reads the ELCA social statement The Church and Criminal Justice: Hearing the Cries. It notes recognition that transitional services are essential to community reintegration and expresses gratitude for creative efforts in the faith community to offer support, then adds: "Governments are encouraged by this church to continue funding expansion [of reentry plans]... and provide a range of services through coordinated efforts with community agencies."

Contact your members of Congress today and urge them to support through cosponsorship and fully fund H.R. 3552. Sign up for ELCA Advocacy alerts to be able to send messages to your congresspeople:  https://give.elca.org/page/65066/subscriptions/1

2026 Disaster Emotional and Spiritual Care Academy. Lutheran Disaster Response, along with several ecumenical partners, are collaborating to offer the 2026 Disaster Emotional and Spiritual Care Academy, a series of six free online, live-taught webinars that will offer pragmatic and informative sessions to help faith and community leaders address emerging needs from disasters and other crises. Webinars are scheduled for Tuesdays, March 24 through April 28, 2026, 10:00 am - 11:30 AM Central time and are appropriate for all levels of experience and expertise. Register at: https://okumc-reg.brtapp.com/DisasterEmotionalAndSpiritualCareAcademy2026
          One registration for all sessions: When you submit this registration, you are registering to receive webinar links and reminder emails for all webinars in this series. Attending all is not required. Attend as many you are able to attend. For details and more information about webinars, go to the Webinar Hub at crisiscareministries.net. Webinars will not be recorded.

Schedule at a glance, 10 AM - 11:30 AM Central. LDR will be leading the conversations that are asterisked.
*March 24, 2026 - "Calm in Crisis"
March 31, 2026 - "Talk Saves Lives" (suicide prevention)
*April 7, 2026 - "Responding with Care: A Trauma-Informed Approach to Disaster Response for Diverse Communities"
April 14, 2026 - "Risk and Protective Factors"
April 21, 2026 - "Tools for Building Resilience"
April 28, 2026 - "Emotional and Spiritual Care in Human-Caused Disasters"

This series is brought to you by collaborative organizations including: Church World Service, Crisis Care Ministries, International Orthodox Christian Charities, Lutheran Disaster Response, Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church, Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Prevention Division, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance - PC (USA), United Church of Christ, Week of Compassion, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), with additional support from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy as well as Lutheran Disaster Response.

Join the Region 2 ELCA Lenten Challenge (2026)—a friendly, faith-filled effort across the five Region 2 synods (Sierra Pacific, Southwest California, Pacifica, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain) to put Matthew 25 into practice. 
          This year’s theme—“Lord, When Did We See You?”—invites individuals, families, congregations, and organizations to commit to 3 of 4 practices (Devotions, Learning, Action, and Donation) throughout Lent, while together aiming to raise $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger—supporting sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger and poverty. Visit: www.lentenchallenge.org

Updates Beginning 22 February 2026

Today: Immediately following worship there is a congregational meeting in the Sanctuary to vote on hosting a pastoral intern. ~Deborah Ash

Lenten Devotionals: In the Welcome Center you will find this year’s lenten devotional from Augsburg Fortress, Love Outpoured, plus a couple of others from Bread for the World, Walking as Children of the Light, and from ReconcilingWorks, Of Justice, Liberation, and Flourishing.

Midweek Lent Soup Supper & Bible Study begins this Wednesday, 25 February in the Fellowship Hall. (Come see our renovated kitchen!)  We’ll begin at 6pm with a table grace, share soup and conversation, and then around 6:45pm begin Bible Study.  We'll use the Body of Christ, ELCA Sumud 2026 Lent Devotional Series (found at https://resources.elca.org/), which focuses on our siblings in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.  Please consider watching this 11-minute video, History of Israel-Palestine Conflict, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m19F4IHTVGc, to help understand the situation in this part of our world.  Our time will be wrapped in song and prayer and we’ll be on our way around 8pm.  A sign-up poster for setup/cleanup and food is in the Welcome Center.  I look forward to our time together!  Peace, Pr. Koppel

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Continues. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who is leading a hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942). ~Thanks, Sally Trigg

2026 is a new year of giving to St. Paul and its ministries. Regarding the old year just completed, your 2025 GIVING STATEMENT is available if you would like it for your income tax preparation. All you need to do is send an email to finsec@stpaulabq.org or you can call me at (505) 363-2284. Happy New Year of giving! ~Paula Eglinton

Offer your time in the SACRISTY…..what does this mean? If you can arrive an hour early and/or stay 15-20 minutes after the worship service once a month – the rest will fall in place! The Sacristy is just a storage for all things, precious, used in our worship service. The work is to set the table, prepare the wash station, fill and setthe elements for communion, and prepare the candle carts and font for service. After care involves removing the altar dressing and paraments – hanging them, folding them and packing the communion supplies for use next week. Training is easy and once you have the essentials of what to do, this becomes a peaceful ritual of preparation. We have two members who are regulars for this detail and we would love to have more. It would be wonderful to have a rotation that is shared. If you are interested in talking through this contribution, ask Diane Remer-Thamert, Julie Ambrogi  or Pastor Kristi. Schedules are easy to work around. ~Julie Ambrogi

This Week: God’s Work Our Hands Project. We are providing the Thursday 2/26 meal at Luther House for the Open Table Connection gathering. Please see the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to bring a side dish, salad, or dessert to share, and consider staying to take part in the conversation! We will take care of the main dish. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Lawn Mowing: We are looking for a second volunteer for mowing of the Calico play areas once the warm weather hits and it's time to mow again. We have one volunteer currently and it helps if there are two. It is an easy half hour to forty-five minute task with our electric mower. ~Deborah Ash

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

This Tuesday:

To register for this event, please contact:
Mary Graves (marywigergraves@gmail.com, 651-894-2743), or
Ivan Westergaard (ivanwestergaard@comcast.com, 505-903-2351

Next Week:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Meghan's Lent Message:
Last year, the day before Ash Wednesday, we were planning worship for our staff in the Office of the Bishop when we suddenly realized we had no ashes. I couldn’t quite believe it, because I knew with absolute certainty that I had planned ahead. The previous year, I had put aside palm branches from the Palm Sunday Procession and guarded them carefully in my office for months, in anticipation of this very moment in time. I could close my eyes and see the palms propped up right next to the door, perfectly dried, waiting to become ashes.

But that office was in Jerusalem. And those ashes were for a different place.

And this year, we’re in a different place yet again.

As we enter the season of Lent this Ash Wednesday, I’m mindful of how much can change in a year—and how the reality of change is part of what Ash Wednesday is for. When it feels like the world is whirling, and we are reeling; when we wake up in the morning and remember that the person we love is no longer there; when each day’s news brings fresh heartbreak or worry; we may wonder: what is the solid ground? What is left, amid the ruins of our expectations and our hopes, to offer solace to our weary hearts—and a way forward?

Ash Wednesday does not turn away from these realities. In the center of the maelstrom, in the silence after endings, in the deep breath before the scary new thing, Ash Wednesday meets us and marks us with the honest dust of the earth. The cross on our forehead witnesses to the story of God who so loves this place, this world, this humanity—even knowing the worst we can do to one another, and ourselves—that God chooses us, and loves us, through life and death and beyond. The cross of ashes is a promise that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus: including our mortality and our fallibility, our doubt and our overwhelm, and all the change that unravels our plans and demands we start again here, now.

Ash Wednesday offers this to us, and more: an invitation not only to a moment but to a season. I am reminded each year that the word “Lent,” which we might suppose has something to do with Jesus’ death and resurrection, or our penitence for sin, in fact is taken from an old English word for “spring.” Lent is the new spring growth, the bud in the branch, the building of birds’ nests and gestation of new life. Lent is the story of life leading inexorably to death, and death turning again to new life.

Dear friends, I pray that this Ash Wednesday and Lenten season offer you, not easy answers or shallow consolations, but profound love that reaches you in the depths of change and uncertainly, fear and grief, and wonder at the ways life continues to show its beauty in the midst of it all. Profound peace, that calms your heart and breath and gives you courage. Profound hope, that there is resurrection on the other side of every death and every dead end. And I give thanks for you, and for the God whose love lives in you, for the sake of the world God so loves.

Blessed Ash Wednesday. Blessed Lent.
+Bishop Meghan

Bishop Curry and Faith Leaders Urge Humane Policies in DHS Negotiations.
In a Feb. 9 letter to the U.S. Congress, ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry, along with other faith leaders, shared requests as Congress faces a Feb. 13 deadline to determine Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding. 
          The letter says, in part: “Our churches have decried denial of due process and recent violence by federal law enforcement agents, including the shootings of Keith Porter Jr., Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents. We call for investigation, accountability and justice in these cases.
          “We also see this as a critical moment to legislate immigration policies that are just, humane and respectful of the dignity of immigrants who, like all people, are beloved children of God.”
          The leaders urge Congress to “prioritize language that preserves the freedom to worship, to live in safety regardless of race or background, to love our neighbors, and to meet the basic needs and rights of all.”
The link to the letter is found under this news item at: https://www.elca.org/news

Tomorrow, from Global Refuge: On the eve of the anniversary of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the Global Refuge advocacy team will host a webinar discussion covering policy and advocacy updates affecting Ukrainians in the United States. Register at:
https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_21otDkfOSQmoYVh3nr1EYw?mc_cid=3394c0c6c0&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

2026 Disaster Emotional and Spiritual Care Academy. Lutheran Disaster Response, along with several ecumenical partners, are collaborating to offer the 2026 Disaster Emotional and Spiritual Care Academy, a series of six free online, live-taught webinars that will offer pragmatic and informative sessions to help faith and community leaders address emerging needs from disasters and other crises. Webinars are scheduled for Tuesdays, March 24 through April 28, 2026, 10:00 am - 11:30 AM Central time and are appropriate for all levels of experience and expertise.
          To register, visit:Https://okumc-reg.brtapp.com/DisasterEmotionalAndSpiritualCareAcademy2026
          One registration for all sessions: When you submit this registration, you are registering to receive webinar links and reminder emails for all webinars in this series. Attending all is not required. Attend as many you are able to attend. For details and more information about webinars, go to the Webinar Hub at crisiscareministries.net. Webinars will not be recorded.

Schedule at a glance, 10 AM - 11:30 AM Central. LDR will be leading the conversations that are asterisked.

*March 24, 2026 - "Calm in Crisis"
March 31, 2026 - "Talk Saves Lives" (suicide prevention)
*April 7, 2026 - "Responding with Care: A Trauma-Informed Approach to Disaster Response for Diverse Communities"
April 14, 2026 - "Risk and Protective Factors"
April 21, 2026 - "Tools for Building Resilience"
April 28, 2026 - "Emotional and Spiritual Care in Human-Caused Disasters"

This series is brought to you by collaborative organizations including: Church World Service, Crisis Care Ministries, International Orthodox Christian Charities, Lutheran Disaster Response, Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church, Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Prevention Division, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance - PC (USA), United Church of Christ, Week of Compassion, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), with additional support from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy as well as Lutheran Disaster Response.

Sensitive Locations Update from AMMPARO: A preliminary injunction was granted that applies to congregations and ministries in the New England, Greater Milwaukee, SW Texas, Sierra Pacific and Southwest California Synods in the ELCA and a couple of other plaintiffs. The injunction was granted on protection of their properties and ministries as sensitive locations from ICE activity without a warrant. https://democracyforward.org/news/press-releases/court-blocks-trump-vance-administrations-unlawful-immigration-raids-at-houses-of-worship/

With the reintroduction of the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding Schools Act in both the House and Senate, now is the time to remind Congress of its responsibility to survivors of the Indian boarding school era.
          The U.S. federal government has identified over 400 Indian boarding schools that operated from 1819 to 1969, nearly half of which were affiliated with or received support from a religious institution. “Residential or boarding schools inflicted trauma on Indigenous children that is still being felt today, generations later,” wrote the Rev. Wanda Frenchman, Interim Director, ELCA Indigenous Ministries & Tribal Relations.
          Native American leaders have called on denominations to do the work of finding all records of their involvement. ELCA Truth-Seeking and Truth-Telling Initiative efforts began in earnest in fall 2022. We have a timely opportunity to urge the United States to do the same.
          Although long-overdue, successful passage of H.R.7325 / S. 761 will bring together the U.S. government and communities of faith, center the healing and truth-telling of Indigenous communities and move our country towards accountability.
Today, remaining boarding school survivors are elders. We must honor these experiences and urge Congress to move our country one step closer to truth and healing by supporting this important legislation now.
Sign up for ELCA Advocacy alerts to be able to send messages to your congresspeople:  https://give.elca.org/page/65066/subscriptions/1

The Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary Disputatio on Artificial Intelligence will be held at 2000 Center St., Suite 200, Berkeley, CA and online on Wednesday, February 25 from 8:30 am - 3 pm PT.
          In a digital age that is always reforming, artificial intelligence (AI) has become part and parcel of living in modernity. Given its impact, as well as overwhelming enthusiasm for and protest against, it becomes necessary to ask: how do we best live in the world with the reality of AI? How do we respond to it faithfully and theologically? How do we equip leaders to accompany people in the decisions they will face? To explore this, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary will host a Disputatio on Artificial Intelligence following the medieval questio model in collaboration with powerful voices in medicine, ecology, and higher education.
          The events of the day include the main disputatio, worship, lunch, and a variety of themed generative conversations hosted by theology and AI experts. Join us online or in Berkeley on Wednesday, February 25 from 8:30 am - 3 pm for a dynamic day of inquiry! Register at: https://www.plts.edu/events/6512/

Join the Region 2 ELCA Lenten Challenge (2026)—a friendly, faith-filled effort across the five Region 2 synods (Sierra Pacific, Southwest California, Pacifica, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain) to put Matthew 25 into practice. 
          This year’s theme—“Lord, When Did We See You?”—invites individuals, families, congregations, and organizations to commit to 3 of 4 practices (Devotions, Learning, Action, and Donation) throughout Lent, while together aiming to raise $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger—supporting sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger and poverty. Visit: www.lentenchallenge.org

Updates Beginning 15 February 2026

Today: After worship there will be an informational meeting to discuss hosting a pastoral intern. Next Sunday, 22 Feb, there will be a congregational meeting after worship to vote on hosting a pastoral intern. Both meetings will be held in the Sanctuary at 11:15am. ~Deborah Ash

Kitchen Renovation Wraps Up! The kitchen will be ready for use this week. Thank you to Ryan Millis! ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Continues. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who is leading a hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942). ~Thanks, Sally Trigg

2026 is a new year of giving to St. Paul and its ministries. Regarding the old year just completed, your 2025 GIVING STATEMENT is available if you would like it for your income tax preparation. All you need to do is send an email to finsec@stpaulabq.org or you can call me at (505) 363-2284. Happy New Year of giving! ~Paula Eglinton

Offer your time in the SACRISTY…..what does this mean? If you can arrive an hour early and/or stay 15-20 minutes after the worship service once a month – the rest will fall in place! The Sacristy is just a storage for all things, precious, used in our worship service. The work is to set the table, prepare the wash station, fill and setthe elements for communion, and prepare the candle carts and font for service. After care involves removing the altar dressing and paraments – hanging them, folding them and packing the communion supplies for use next week. Training is easy and once you have the essentials of what to do, this becomes a peaceful ritual of preparation. We have two members who are regulars for this detail and we would love to have more. It would be wonderful to have a rotation that is shared. If you are interested in talking through this contribution, ask Diane Remer-Thamert, Julie Ambrogi  or Pastor Kristi. Schedules are easy to work around. ~Julie Ambrogi

Just a Note: If you are the last one out of any of the rooms in the building, please be mindful to turn off lights and make sure doors are securely closed. We want to be good stewards of our church home and appreciate your help in this matter. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash

God’s Work Our Hands Project: We are providing the Thursday 2/26 meal at Luther House for the Open Table Connection gathering. Please see the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to bring a side dish, salad, or dessert to share, and consider staying to take part in the conversation! We will take care of the main dish. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Council Identifies Exciting 2026-2027 SPLC Goals

Your Council developed some exciting goals for 2026-2027 focused on upgrading our building and improving our communication in our recent Strategic Planning session.

On Saturday, January 31, 2026, your Council met for several hours to discuss our past and future. First the group looked at 2025 accomplishments. These included completing the Sanctuary Project construction, Pastor Koppel taking a sabbatical, Calico Preschool applying for and receiving a $1M grant from the State of New Mexico, Facility Use Coordinator, Jolene Gallegos increasing usage of our facility, and Caminemos Juntos (our Spanish ministry) providing regular services and activities at St. Paul.

Second, the group analyzed SPLC’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Key strengths focused on the congregation’s radical acceptance and generosity with their time and money. Weaknesses centered on needed building upgrades and high building cost, gaps in communication between SPLC Council and ministries and the congregation, and the size of our community being fewer in number. Opportunities included increasing facility use and continuing to grow Calico Preschool, and the Council identified volunteer and staff burnout as a key threat to SPLC’s future.

Third, your SPLC Council looked to St Paul’s future and identified several core goals, some short-term and some long-term, which we believe represent a good path for SPLC:

1.   Improve institutional stability by completing the roof and replacing the boiler (facility projects and hiring/training new staff)

2.   Improve communication:

• Enhance internal communication among ministries and between the congregation and ministries/Council

• Continue to grow the connection between St. Paul and Caminemos Juntos communities

• Form external partnerships with other ELCA congregations

• Enhance external communication with Albuquerque community

• Improve volunteerism

3.     Grow SPLC membership

Your SPLC Council members are developing strategies to make each of these goals a reality. Watch for more information about what we plan to do and how you can help in upcoming bulletins.

~In Christ, Casey Jelsema, Council President

Lawn Mowing: We will be needing another lawn mower volunteer for the Calico play areas, once the warm weather hits and it's time to mow again.  If anyone wants to step up and mow every other week, we would appreciate your help.  The lawn mower runs well, is directly next to the playground in a closet and is electric, so it is an easy half hour to forty-five minute task. At this time, we are down to one person volunteering and it helps if there are two folks. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

The hat makers have hats saved for our colder weather. A box in the Narthex is full of various sizes and colors. Feel free to take a few for your car and pass them out as you see need. Thank you for sharing warmth. ~Julie Ambrogi

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Meghan’s Remarks at the 4 Feb. LAM-NM Advocacy Day Luncheon:
Dear friends, on behalf of the Rocky Mountain Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and our Lutheran Advocacy Ministry New Mexico, welcome and thank you for being here. We are so excited to see you all: Lutherans, ecumenical partners, members of the New Mexico Conference of Churches, and friends from every faith background and those who do not claim religious faith at all—but share in our faith and hope that a better world is possible and is worth advocating for.

Recently I received an email from one of our members here in New Mexico who was dismayed and alarmed by what they were seeing happening in Minnesota and around the country: ICE surges causing fear, trauma, injury and death, claiming to target violent criminals but in reality taking people randomly from workplaces, schools, cars and sidewalks; detaining undocumented people and U.S. citizens and legal residents, children, and lawful bystanders. Elected and appointed leaders who express no compassion and show no mercy for the humanity of immigrants or protesters, who seem not to prioritize the justice of their treatment. As we’ve heard this morning, also cuts and impossible demands for programs that help the most vulnerable with housing, food, and basic needs, and laws and rhetoric that make it a crime to be vulnerable. The villainization and defunding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility work. The email asked: where is the church?

Where is the church? In many ways this is THE question for these times and for these places—and, in fact, for all times and all places. There are many possible answers. Some say the church is too quiet, trying to find common ground, not risking losing members. Some say the church is on the streets of Minneapolis (and Santa Fe, and Albuquerque, and Las Cruces, and and and) singing and praying and then going out to nonviolently put their bodies on the line for justice. Some say the church is in the legislature, advocating for just policies for all neighbors! And some say the church is bringing groceries to neighbors too frightened to leave their homes, carrying on the work of accompanying the vulnerable without drawing attention that would put neighbors at risk. Some say the church is more divided than ever: some Christians see what is happening as evil and some as justice. Some say the church is more united than ever, denominations finding common ground in the biblical call to welcome the stranger and care for the neighbor. Some ask: who do we say the church is? Is it just bishops, pastors, priests and deacons? Isn’t it all of us? Aren’t we really asking, where am I? Some say the question goes deeper—that when we ask, where is the church, we are asking: where is God in all of this?

And some say: we can say a lot of things about where the church is or isn’t, where it should or shouldn’t be. But what’s not in question is: where is Jesus? Where does Jesus take his position? Where do we find him? Martin Luther would say: we find him in the places of the cross—in the midst of the suffering, the oppressed, the persecuted; in solidarity and in love for those the world dehumanizes, demeans, and dismisses. Jesus once summed up the whole of God’s instructions for humanity in two parts: love God with your whole self; and love your neighbor as yourself. It’s not unlike the instructions of the prophet Micah: do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God. Advocacy is a ministry that takes seriously the call to engage in the world through these three lenses—justice, mercy, and humility—and to call communities and nations, leaders and governments, to do the same.

The beauty and the challenge of “love God, love neighbor” and “do justice, love mercy, walk humbly” is that these instructions can be lived out in countless ways. This suggests that these words are not just for you and me as individuals; they are instructions for community. When we fear we are not doing enough, we can become overwhelmed and stuck in anxiety, fear, or even numbness, inundated by the heartbreak happening all around us.

A quote often attributed to the Talmud draws from Jewish teaching to interpret Micah’s words: Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world's grief. Do justly, now. Love mercy, now. Walk humbly, now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it. Stacey Abrams, former candidate for governor in Georgia, a professor and voting rights advocate, has said: “We think ‘leadership’ is about doing everything everywhere, all at once. [However] it is about doing something, somewhere, soon. Leading from where you are means finding a place to stand and starting to do the work.” When we do, Abrams says, “Each of us doing it creates a quilt that is…transformative.”

And this is perhaps the answer to where the church is and can be. The body of Christ has many members, many gifts, many callings. The point is not to try to be the body alone, but to discern which part of the body we are. The church is more than you and more than me. It is the whole body: eyes, ears, heart, brain, lungs, voice, feet, hands—and the connective tissue that binds it all together. The church is not only in one building or one denomination or one part of the country or the world. I witnessed that in the Holy Land, where the small and struggling church finds unity among Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant expressions. We are recognizing here in New Mexico how we might work together in both the public ways we witness to the truth of the Gospel, and in the quieter ways we walk humbly with God by walking humbly with our neighbors, for their protection and help, out of the spotlight.

The church is a body that is more than the sum of its parts—because it is not just any body, but the body of Christ Jesus, who lives in us as we live in him, who breathes life into this body and makes it not just a collection of individuals but a community. We do not merely do justice and love mercy and walk humbly to the best of our human ability—we do it with God, who can work with us and through us and even in spite of us if need be. I’ve heard it said that when something is “moving at the speed of church,” that means it’s going slowly. But when church moves at the speed of relationships—and when church moves at the speed of the Gospel—transformation can happen. May we do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with the God who so loves the world—as the body of Christ, together. Amen.

Register at: https://www.plts.edu/events/6512/

Join the Region 2 ELCA Lenten Challenge (2026)—a friendly, faith-filled effort across the five Region 2 synods (Sierra Pacific, Southwest California, Pacifica, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain) to put Matthew 25 into practice. 
          This year’s theme—“Lord, When Did We See You?”—invites individuals, families, congregations, and organizations to commit to 3 of 4 practices (Devotions, Learning, Action, and Donation) throughout Lent, while together aiming to raise $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger—supporting sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger and poverty. Visit: www.lentenchallenge.org

Updates Beginning 8 February 2026

Today: Adult Faith Development will offer the opportunity to explore the labyrinth with discussion on origin, relevance to our lives in the world at this time, and a chance to experience as a group, walking St. Paul’s outdoor labyrinth today, weather permitting.  We will learn how the West embraced this ancient “sacred circle” and how it can enrich our prayer lives now.  Bring your drink and snacks to the Conference Room at 11:15am to learn more.  ~Kathy Westley for the AFD Team

Today: At 12:30pm we will be showing the Luther movie in Friendship Corner. Come pull up a comfy chair and enjoy an excellent movie (along with pizza and popcorn!). ~Pr. Koppel

Next Sunday, 15 Feb: After worship there will be an informational meeting to discuss hosting a pastoral intern. The following Sunday, 22 Feb, there will be a congregational meeting after worship to vote on hosting a pastoral intern. Both meetings will be held in the Sanctuary at 11:15am. ~Deborah Ash

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Continues. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who is leading a hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~Thanks, Sally Trigg

2026 is a new year of giving to St. Paul and its ministries. Regarding the old year just completed, your 2025 GIVING STATEMENT is available if you would like it for your income tax preparation. All you need to do is send an email to finsec@stpaulabq.org or you can call me at (505) 363-2284. Happy New Year of giving! ~Paula Eglinton

Kitchen Renovation Continues! The kitchen will be out of commission from 1/26 to 2/13. Thank you to Ryan Millis! ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Just a Note: If you are the last one out of any of the rooms in the building, please be mindful to turn off lights and make sure doors are securely closed. We want to be good stewards of our church home and appreciate your help in this matter. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash

God’s Work Our Hands: For our February project, we are providing the Thursday 2/26 meal at Luther House for the Open Table Connection gathering. Please see the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to bring a side dish, salad, or dessert to share, and consider staying to take part in the conversation! We will take care of the main dish. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Council Identifies Exciting 2026-2027 SPLC Goals
Your Council developed some exciting goals for 2026-2027 focused on upgrading our building and improving our communication in our recent Strategic Planning session.

On Saturday, January 31, 2026, your Council met for several hours to discuss our past and future. First the group looked at 2025 accomplishments. These included completing the Sanctuary Project construction, Pastor Koppel taking a sabbatical, Calico Preschool applying for and receiving a $1M grant from the State of New Mexico, Facility Use Coordinator, Jolene Gallegos increasing usage of our facility, and Caminemos Juntos (our Spanish ministry) providing regular services and activities at St. Paul.         

Second, the group analyzed SPLC’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Key strengths focused on the congregation’s radical acceptance and generosity with their time and money. Weaknesses centered on needed building upgrades and high building cost, gaps in communication between SPLC Council and ministries and the congregation, and the size of our community being fewer in number. Opportunities included increasing facility use and continuing to grow Calico Preschool, and the Council identified volunteer and staff burnout as a key threat to SPLC’s future.

Third, your SPLC Council looked to St Paul’s future and identified several core goals, some short-term and some long-term, which we believe represent a good path for SPLC:

1.   Improve institutional stability by completing the roof and replacing the boiler (facility projects and hiring/training new staff)

2.   Improve communication:

• Enhance internal communication among ministries and between the congregation and ministries/Council

• Continue to grow the connection between St. Paul and Caminemos Juntos communities

• Form external partnerships with other ELCA congregations

• Enhance external communication with Albuquerque community

• Improve volunteerism

3.     Grow SPLC membership

Your SPLC Council members are developing strategies to make each of these goals a reality. Watch for more information about what we plan to do and how you can help in upcoming bulletins.
~In Christ, Casey Jelsema, Council President

Lawn Mowing: We will be needing another lawn mower volunteer for the Calico play areas, once the warm weather hits and it's time to mow again.  If anyone wants to step up and mow every other week, we would appreciate your help.  The lawn mower runs well, is directly next to the playground in a closet and is electric, so it is an easy half hour to forty-five minute task. At this time, we are down to one person volunteering and it helps if there are two folks. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

The hat makers have hats saved for our colder weather. A box in the Narthex is full of various sizes and colors. Feel free to take a few for your car and pass them out as you see need. Thank you for sharing warmth. ~Julie Ambrogi

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-New Mexico: 2026 Legislative Advocacy Days. LAM-NM is planning several days during the 30-day session for you to join Kurt and other volunteer LAM-NM advocates to work the Round House by lobbying legislators and potentially offering public comment during committee meetings on priority bills for our advocacy agenda. You are also invited to come and watch the process and activity of our state's legislature. There is much to keep you busy! Please join us on one or more of the following days: February 10th (Tue), February 12th (Thur), February 17th (Tue). Please email or call Kurt (krager@rmselca.org) before the day you plan to be there to add your name to the list and to receive instructions for parking and meeting.

 Additional Special Days!

You are invited to participate with some of our key partner organizations and coalitions on their special days of emphasis:

 * February 10th: Common Cause - Democracy Day of Action
 * February 10th: Paid Medical Family Leave Action Day
Register at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdO4L8ochF7HT-AbXZVT6aJ7a8uWQT5fK4naN8N1JmbgkVtxA/viewform
* February 11th: Disability Rights Day
* February 18th: Hunger Action Day
Register at: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=cVuPB3aOykCqH5ewwFgme6R0v503FgJEiW0wiO_2N5NUOFk2TkNRVkE5Q0ZOUVZFOE40T0VJV1dEVC4u&route=shorturl

Global Refuge Issues Statement: The statement, by President and CEO Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, condemns the killing of Alex Pretti in sweeping federal immigration raids. Read the full statement at: https://www.globalrefuge.org/news/alex-pretti-shooting-federal-immigration-minnesota/

Join the Region 2 ELCA Lenten Challenge (2026)—a friendly, faith-filled effort across the five Region 2 synods (Sierra Pacific, Southwest California, Pacifica, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain) to put Matthew 25 into practice. 
          This year’s theme—“Lord, When Did We See You?”—invites individuals, families, congregations, and organizations to commit to 3 of 4 practices (Devotions, Learning, Action, and Donation) throughout Lent, while together aiming to raise $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger—supporting sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger and poverty. Visit: https://lentenchallenge.org/

Join Lutherans Restoring Creation and the EcoFaith Action Network of the NWIM Synod as we invite Bill McKibben to discuss his new book. Best known for his environmentalism, Bill McKibben is an author, journalist and founder of climate justice orgs like 350.org and ThirdAct. His newest book, "Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization," calls us to harness the power of the sun and rewrite our future. In addition to a presentation by Bill McKibben, we will have Q&A moderated by eco-theologian Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing.  Register at: bit.ly/mckibben-call

Updates Beginning 1 February 2026

Today and Next Sunday, Adult Faith Development will offer the opportunity to explore the labyrinth with discussion on origin, relevance to our lives in the world at this time, and a chance to experience as a group, walking St. Paul’s outdoor labyrinth on 2/8, weather permitting.  We will learn how the West embraced this ancient “sacred circle” and how it can enrich our prayer lives now.  Bring your drink and snacks to the Conference Room at 11:15am to learn more.  ~Kathy Westley for the AFD Team

Next Sunday: At 12:30pm we will be showing the Luther movie in Friendship Corner. Come pull up a comfy chair and enjoy an excellent movie (along with some popcorn!). ~Pr. Koppel

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Continues. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who is leading a hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~Thanks, Sally Trigg

2026 is a new year of giving to St. Paul and its ministries. Regarding the old year just completed, your 2025 GIVING STATEMENT is available if you would like it for your income tax preparation. All you need to do is send an email to finsec@stpaulabq.org or you can call me at (505) 363-2284. Happy New Year of giving! ~Paula Eglinton

Kitchen Renovation Has Begun! The kitchen will be out of commission from 1/26 to 2/13. Thank you to Ryan Millis! ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Just a Note: If you are the last one out of any of the rooms in the building, please be mindful to turn off lights and make sure doors are securely closed. We want to be good stewards of our church home and appreciate your help in this matter. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash

God’s Work Our Hands: For our February project, we are providing the Thursday 2/26 meal at Luther House for the Open Table Connection gathering. Please see the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to bring a side dish, salad, or dessert to share, and consider staying to take part in the conversation! We will take care of the main dish. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The hat makers have hats saved for our colder weather. A box in the Narthex is full of various sizes and colors. Feel free to take a few for your car and pass them out as you see need. Thank you for sharing warmth. ~Julie Ambrogi

Finance Corner – January 2026:
The preliminary results for the close of fiscal year 2025 the SPLC+Calico actual total income exceeded the projected income budget by $143,397. And the actual expense exceeded the projected expense budget by $68,383. This resulted in a year-to-date actual budget deficit of $28,599 instead of the 2025 projected deficit of $103,613. These results were a blessing and likely will not be duplicated in subsequent years. The 2025 budget  deficit will be covered by SPLC Unrestricted Funds.
          SPLC is over budget in projected income and closes out the fiscal year 2025 at $49,134 with offerings up ($12,314), third party usage of SPLC facilities up ($18,324) and Bradbury Stamm parking up ($15,570). Calico is over budget in projected income and closes out the fiscal year 2025 up  $94,263 from unexpected ECECD tuitions. Collectively, these increases in income totaled $143,397.
          However, the increases in projected income are offset with SPLC over budget in projected expenses by $35,463 ($22,915 contracted expenses & $12,548 property expenses) and Calico is also over budget in projected expenses by $31,700 (instruction expense). So that the increase in actual income ($143,397) is offset by an increase in actual expenses ($68,383) and results in a deficit of $28,599.     

The Softer Side – January 2026
There are so many reasons that we at SPLC continue to financially support our various missions and each month we’d like to take the time to lift up an example. We would encourage the congregation to offer suggestions. This month many of us have watched Gabriel Rabezanany grow up at St. Paul’s. With a family rooted in their faith, and with the love and support of us all, Gabriel will be confirmed on Easter Sunday. We will join him in celebrating his choice to intentionally continue his faith journey. Thanks to all of you who continue to bless St. Paul. ~Sig Stocking, for Finance

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Concert Today:

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, invites you to join them in a retreat this Saturday, February 7th at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church (5301 Ponderosa Ave NE) from 9:30-12:00.  Pastor Erica Lea-Simka of the ABQ Mennonite Church will lead us in a study of St. Julian of Norwich of the Middle Ages.  Her writings, Revelations of Divine Love are the earliest surviving English-language works attributed to a woman. Come join us! For more information, please contact Shirley Nilsson at (505) 463-3657.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

New Year, new office! As we begin 2026, the Rocky Mountain Synod office is excited to share an announcement that has been a long time coming: we have officially moved in with Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado.
          Iliff is a seminary of the United Methodist Church located on the campus of the University of Denver. The RMS has signed a five-year lease agreement.          We are excited about this move and believe it is the next most faithful step for our synod office, for several reasons:

• Good stewardship: The staff, synod council members, and conference dean who worked to identify the next location for the RMS office sought an alternative to the financial and time-intensive responsibilities of owning and maintaining a building, in the hope that more of our synod mission support could be directed toward the mission of the office of the bishop to relate to, connect, support and equip our 150 congregations and ministries, leaders and members.

• Ecumenical partnership: Iliff School of Theology, the only theological school of any ELCA full-communion church that resides in the geographic territory of the Rocky Mountain Synod, is a place of theological learning and leadership formation for ordained and lay leaders across denominational backgrounds, for vocations within and beyond the church.

• Commitment to synod presence: Having our synod office located at Iliff, through cost and time savings, will support our commitment as RMS staff to be synod ministers, in a ministry of presence and active accompaniment throughout the five states of our synod. Iliff is a location that offers myriad opportunities for gathering spaces.

In the meantime, please note our change of address going forward: all mail to the RMS office of the bishop should be addressed directly to the Rocky Mountain Synod, ELCA at 2323 E Iliff Ave, Denver, CO, 80210.
          On December 17, our Rocky Mountain Synod staff gathered at the Lutheran Center to officially bless and decommission the building as a church property.

Read Bishop Meghan’s 20 Jan. article: On Martin Luther King, Jr., Minneapolis, and the Holy Land at https://www.rmselca.org/blog/on-martin-luther-king-jr-minneapolis-and-the-holy-land.

Join the Region 2 ELCA Lenten Challenge (2026)—a friendly, faith-filled effort across the five Region 2 synods (Sierra Pacific, Southwest California, Pacifica, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain) to put Matthew 25 into practice. 
          This year’s theme—“Lord, When Did We See You?”—invites individuals, families, congregations, and organizations to commit to 3 of 4 practices (Devotions, Learning, Action, and Donation) throughout Lent, while together aiming to raise $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger—supporting sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger and poverty. Visit: https://lentenchallenge.org/

From Global Refuge on Operation PARRIS: As most people know, the process of seeking safety in the United States for families forced to flee their homes is extensive and difficult. Refugees admitted to the United States by the government undergo years of processing, in-person interviews, security checks, and medical screenings before setting foot on U.S. soil.
          But now, under a new initiative called Operation PARRIS, thousands of refugees in Minnesota are the target of an intensive Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operation to reexamine their status under U.S. law—part of a larger effort by the Trump administration to relitigate, reconsider, and second-guess previous grants of refugee status.
          What does this mean? Families who followed all of the rules and were lawfully admitted to the U.S. may now be at risk.
          Read more at:  https://www.globalrefuge.org/news/operation-in-minnesota-targeting-lawfully-admitted-refugees/ where you can also sign their Action Alert to your lawmakers urging them to push back on the USCIS reinterview process.

Coffee with Christine, Feb 4th, 10:30 MT. Join Christine Moffett, ELCA Environmental Policy Advocate for coffee and discussion! Ask your questions about Federal policy, especially environment. bit.ly/coffee-christine

Registration closes tomorrow for the 2026 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon this Wednesday, February 4th.  First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe hosts the morning Issue Briefing, and La Fonda Hotel the Bishop's Luncheon.

Schedule
9:15 a.m. - 10:00 Check-in and refreshments at First Presbyterian
(208 Grant Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501)
10:00 a.m. Welcome and Opening Devotion
10:15 a.m. Guest Speakers
11:15 a.m. Break
11:30 a.m. Bible Study - Bishop Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni
11:45 a.m. Advocacy Agenda and Issue Briefing
12:30 - 1 p.m. Transition to La Fonda Hotel
(100 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501)
1:00-1:15 p.m. Bishop's Luncheon Begins
2:45 - 3 p.m. Luncheon concludes

The registration cost per person is $45 per person. (Note, this is not a fundraiser as the registration charge covers most, but not all, of the anticipated cost.)
The Bishop's Luncheon will include a wonderful La Fonda lunch, award presentations, and a keynote address from the Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod (ELCA), the Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni. I am confident that all in attendance last year would say Bishop Meghan's keynote was incredibly powerful and spot-on, and no doubt it will be again this year! Register at: https://www.lutheranadvocacynm.org/
Note: If you want to attend but don't want to make the drive on your own, there is still room on the bus chartered by our Methodist friends. Please contact Pastor Andy Stoker at astoker@centraltolife.org. You will need to meet at Central Methodist, next to UNM, by 8:15 am. Also, we could use a few more volunteers. If you can help during the event, please contact Tim Peterson at petersontimpaul@gmail.com. 

2026 Advocacy Agenda - Key Areas of Focus:
Hunger
Affordable Housing & Homelessness
Family-Sustaining Income
Health Care
Tax Policy
Criminal Justice
Care of Creation
Good Governance

Updates Beginning 25 January 2026

Important! The phone lines are back up as of 22 Jan.! Due to a theft earlier this month from a car parked near the Choir door, it may be prudent to park on the south side where there is visibility from the front doors. ~Deborah Ash

Today: Adult Faith Development will continue the discussion on Christian Nationalism. Come with what you know are places already organized as ground-holding places to stand against CN. Bring your drink and snacks to the Conference Room at 11:15am for this important conversation. ~Pr. Koppel, for the AFD Team

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Continues. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who is leading a hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~Thanks, Sally Trigg

2026 is a new year of giving to St. Paul and its ministries. Regarding the old year just completed, your 2025 GIVING STATEMENT is available if you would like it for your income tax preparation. All you need to do is send an email to finsec@stpaulabq.org or you can call me at (505) 363-2284. Happy New Year of giving! ~Paula Eglinton

Kitchen Renovation Begins 1/26. Ryan Millis will start bringing in tools, painting, countertops, removing old hoods, etc. on Mon. 1/26. The South side of the Fellowship Hall will be dedicated to space for all items in the kitchen. We will have two tables and space for appliances, taking around 1/4 of the Fellowship Hall.  Ryan will be setting up his tools on the other side of the Kitchen in Fellowship Hall. Please note: the kitchen will be out of commission from 1/26 to 2/13. And a huge thank you! to everyone who helped on 1/20 to clear out the kitchen cabinets and move appliances. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Finance Corner – January 2026:
The preliminary results for the close of fiscal year 2025 the SPLC+Calico actual total income exceeded the projected income budget by $143,397. And the actual expense exceeded the projected expense budget by $68,383. This resulted in a year-to-date actual budget deficit of $28,599 instead of the 2025 projected deficit of $103,613. These results were a blessing and likely will not be duplicated in subsequent years. The 2025 budget  deficit will be covered by SPLC Unrestricted Funds.
          SPLC is over budget in projected income and closes out the fiscal year 2025 at $49,134 with offerings up ($12,314), third party usage of SPLC facilities up ($18,324) and Bradbury Stamm parking up ($15,570). Calico is over budget in projected income and closes out the fiscal year 2025 up  $94,263 from unexpected ECECD tuitions. Collectively, these increases in income totaled $143,397.
          However, the increases in projected income are offset with SPLC over budget in projected expenses by $35,463 ($22,915 contracted expenses & $12,548 property expenses) and Calico is also over budget in projected expenses by $31,700 (instruction expense). So that the increase in actual income ($143,397) is offset by an increase in actual expenses ($68,383) and results in a deficit of $28,599.     

The Softer Side – January 2026
There are so many reasons that we at SPLC continue to financially support our various missions and each month we’d like to take the time to lift up an example. We would encourage the congregation to offer suggestions. This month many of us have watched Gabriel Rabezanany (sp?) grow up at St. Paul’s. With a family rooted in their faith, and with the love and support of us all, Gabriel will be confirmed on Easter Sunday. We will join him in celebrating his choice to intentionally continue his faith journey. Thanks to all of you who continue to bless St. Paul. ~Sig Stocking, for Finance

Spiritual Grounding Group. We are living in turbulent times, and staying spiritually grounded can be tough!  A Spiritual Grounding Group, meeting once each month for about an hour over Zoom, will start in February.  We will be exploring different ways to stay spiritually grounded, including the labyrinth, quiet, journaling, breathing exercises, and the like.  Participants will help determine the group's agenda, and our time together will be guided by the St. Paul Community Covenant.  The meeting time will depend upon the availability of interested people.  If you are interested or have questions, contact Jane Voelkel at 505-980-9162 or jvoelkel@aol.com, or Kathy Westley at kathywestley@yahoo.com by January 31. ~Jane Voelkel

The hat makers have hats saved for our colder weather. A box in the Narthex is full of various sizes and colors. Feel free to take a few for your car and pass them out as you see need. Thank you for sharing warmth. ~Julie Ambrogi

God’s Work Our Hands: For our January project, we are collecting donations towards hygiene kits for HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please put “hygiene kits” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, invites you to join them in a retreat on Saturday, February 7th at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church (5301 Ponderosa Ave NE) from 9:30-12:00.  Pastor Erica Lea-Simka of the ABQ Mennonite Church will lead us in a study of St. Julian of Norwich of the Middle Ages.  Her writings, Revelations of Divine Love are the earliest surviving English-language works attributed to a woman. Come join us! For more information, please contact Shirley Nilsson at (505) 463-3657.

From Jewish Voice for Peace: Albuquerque Weekly Silent Vigil for Palestine. Every Sun from 12 PM to 1 PM, Location TBD weekly. The vigil is somber and silent to bring awareness to the ongoing and worsening genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza and the West Bank. We remember all lives lost and call for immediate unrestricted humanitarian aid to Gaza, a permanent ceasefire, an arms embargo of Israel, and release of all hostages and political prisoners. We have signs, but feel free to bring your own. For more information, please contact Dina at dina.afek@gmail.com or Rebeca at rebecajeff@yahoo.com.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Canada, Denmark, U.S. Lutheran bishops issue joint statement supporting Greenlandic people
To our dear siblings in Christ,
As the national bishops of Lutheran churches in the United States, Canada and Denmark, we wish to send the Greenlandic people our full support in an unusually difficult situation. We pray for and encourage our own congregations and people to pray for and stand with Greenland and the Greenlandic people who want to maintain their independence. We pray for peace and respect between nations.
We unreservedly support the Church of Greenland and Bishop Paneeraq Siegstad Munk, whose statement has been quoted in several media outlets: “This is a question of human rights, dignity, and respecting international laws and treaties. We are a small people, but we are not invisible. Our future is not something to be decided over our heads. We have language, culture, ancestors, children, and a future tied to this place. We are people, not property. Greenland is not land to be bought. It is our home and it is not for sale” (Christian News, Jan. 14).
          The Church of Greenland works closely with dioceses in Denmark and plays an active role in international affairs as a member of the World Council of Churches, the Lutheran World Federation and other organizations. We wish that this close cooperation will continue and bring joy and benefit to the people of Greenland.
          We invite you to write to your elected leaders and tell them to respect the independence of Greenland and the Greenlandic people.
In Christ,

The Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer, 
National Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada                                

The Rev. Yehiel Curry,
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Rt. Revd. Henrik Stubkjær,
Bishop of Viborg
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark

Epiphany Greetings from Bishop Meghan:
Dear siblings in Christ,
Blessed Epiphany to you all! I’m writing to you from Jerusalem, where I have joined ELCA bishops and leaders for an accompaniment visit to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land to celebrate the installation of the new ELCJHL bishop, the Rev. Dr. Imad Haddad. This has been my first trip back to the place my family and I called home prior to my call as bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod. It is a gift to reunite with family and friends, to share the beauty of this place and its people with ELCA colleagues, and to celebrate with a church that has much to teach us about faith and steadfastness in times of injustice and heartbreak.
          I have also had the honor of representing the Rocky Mountain Synod, bringing greetings from our synod to our siblings in Christ in the Holy Land. It has been a true joy to share how our synod holds the people of Palestine and Israel in prayer; how we participated in calling the whole ELCA to greater accompaniment and advocacy through the memorials passed at our 2025 Synod Assembly and Churchwide Assembly; and how our ministries of worship, service to neighbor, and advocacy for justice resonate with the work of the church here—including ministries with immigrants and in border communities. Together with our synod’s Sumud working group for justice in Palestine and Israel, I hope to plan a Rocky Mountain Synod Holy Land trip for 2027. Look for details to come!
          I am mindful in these days of the Epiphany story: the wise magi who journeyed from afar to worship Jesus and, warned of the malice of King Herod, returned home by another road. This choice protected Jesus, then a vulnerable child, from the violence of a fearful leader who chose the way of power by any means necessary. Jesus lived to proclaim and embody a different way: the way of compassion. He laid down his own life rather than sacrifice the lives of others; and his resurrection proved that the way of God’s love is the truest power.
          As we enter a new year, I find myself pondering what it means to choose that other way, especially when the way of the world has brought devastation: in the Holy Land, where people in Gaza are still dying months after a so-called ceasefire. In Venezuela, whose people face an uncertain future and hope for a better one. In U.S. communities where ICE agents have detained, disappeared, or killed our neighbors—including legal residents and citizens. In leaders like Herod who choose the way of power and revel in cruelty. In my own sin, when fear or anger or self-righteousness lead me astray.
          We are called to a different road: the way of Jesus. And we are reminded that when we can’t, or won’t, choose that path, Jesus finds us on the way regardless: to draw us back to the way of the Gospel and to community and belonging; to give us new life in the promise of resurrection; and to lead us—not by shame or force, but by grace—to abundant life in Christ, as the Holy Spirit works to bring hope and healing to the world God so loves.
+In Christ,
Bp Meghan

Read Bishop Meghan’s 20 Jan. article: On Martin Luther King, Jr., Minneapolis, and the Holy Land at https://www.rmselca.org/blog/on-martin-luther-king-jr-minneapolis-and-the-holy-land.

Join the Region 2 ELCA Lenten Challenge (2026)—a friendly, faith-filled effort across the five Region 2 synods (Sierra Pacific, Southwest California, Pacifica, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain) to put Matthew 25 into practice. 
          This year’s theme—“Lord, When Did We See You?”—invites individuals, families, congregations, and organizations to commit to 3 of 4 practices (Devotions, Learning, Action, and Donation) throughout Lent, while together aiming to raise $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger—supporting sustainable solutions that address the root causes of hunger and poverty. Visit: https://lentenchallenge.org/

From Global Refuge on Operation PARRIS: As most people know, the process of seeking safety in the United States for families forced to flee their homes is extensive and difficult. Refugees admitted to the United States by the government undergo years of processing, in-person interviews, security checks, and medical screenings before setting foot on U.S. soil.
          But now, under a new initiative called Operation PARRIS, thousands of refugees in Minnesota are the target of an intensive Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operation to reexamine their status under U.S. law—part of a larger effort by the Trump administration to relitigate, reconsider, and second-guess previous grants of refugee status.
          What does this mean? Families who followed all of the rules and were lawfully admitted to the U.S. may now be at risk.
          Read more at:  https://www.globalrefuge.org/news/operation-in-minnesota-targeting-lawfully-admitted-refugees/ where you can also sign their Action Alert to your lawmakers urging them to push back on the USCIS reinterview process.

Registration is open for the 2026 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon, scheduled for Wednesday, February 4th! We are pleased that First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe, a long-time member of our advocating congregation program, will return as host for the morning Issue Briefing. We will return to the La Fonda Hotel for the Bishop's Luncheon.

Schedule
9:15 a.m. - 10:00 Check-in and refreshments at First Presbyterian
(208 Grant Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501)
10:00 a.m. Welcome and Opening Devotion
10:15 a.m. Guest Speakers
11:15 a.m. Break
11:30 a.m. Bible Study - Bishop Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni
11:45 a.m. Advocacy Agenda and Issue Briefing
12:30 - 1 p.m. Transition to La Fonda Hotel
(100 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501)
1:00-1:15 p.m. Bishop's Luncheon Begins
2:45 - 3 p.m. Luncheon concludes 

The registration cost per person is $45 per person. 
(Note, this is not a fundraiser as the registration charge covers most, but not all, of the anticipated cost for the event.)

The Bishop's Luncheon will include a wonderful La Fonda lunch, award presentations, and a keynote address from the Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod (ELCA), the Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni. I am confident that all in attendance last year would say Bishop Meghan's keynote was incredibly powerful and spot-on, and no doubt it will be again this year! Register at: https://www.lutheranadvocacynm.org/

Are you willing to have others ride with you to Santa Fe from your faith community? An important way that you can support this event is by helping to organize carpools. Please email us with your name and faith community, and let us know how many additional seats you have. Even better, publicize on your own within your faith community. Please email us at Lutheranadvocacy@yahoo.com. Our Methodist participants will again this year rent a bus for their folks, but may have some open seats. We will publicize availability and contact information in upcoming emails.  

2026 Advocacy Agenda - Key Areas of Focus:
Hunger
Affordable Housing & Homelessness
Family-Sustaining Income
Health Care
Tax Policy
Criminal Justice
Care of Creation
Good Governance

Coffee with Christine, Feb 4th, 9:30 PT/12:30 ET. Join Christine Moffett, ELCA Environmental Policy Advocate for coffee and discussion! Feel free to ask your questions about Federal policy, especially environment. Knowledge is power! bit.ly/coffee-christine

Bread for the World Launch: 2026 Offering of Letters Tues., Feb. 10, at 8 pm ET. Join Bread President and CEO Rev. Eugene Cho and staff, as well as hundreds of advocates across the country for this online launch. During our time together, you’ll learn how you and your community can join this nationwide letter writing movement asking Congress to recommit to ending hunger. You’ll hear about the most pressing hunger related issues in Congress right now, learn tactics we can use together to speak up on these issues, and commit together to advocating through the 2026 campaign. Register at:
https://go.bread.org/page/91715/survey/1?utm_medium=email&utm_source=engagingnetworks&utm_campaign=26QO&utm_content=OG+2026+OL+Launch+Email+Invite+01.16.26+-+Core

2026 National Day of Racial Healing. Watch a video of the Jan. 20 event centering multiracial voices from across the ELCA. The program features intentional storytelling and provides opportunities for deep listening, reflection and drawing closer as fellow children of God.
https://www.elca.org/org-events/2026-national-day-of-racial-healing

From the ELCA Advocacy Office: As we grapple with the implications of Artificial intelligence, a new Issue Paper has been published by the ELCA Corporate Social Responsibility. Issue Papers interpret ELCA social teaching as it relates to investments. https://resources.elca.org/corporate-social-responsibility/artificial-intelligence-issue-paper/

Lutheran World Relief is launching its first-ever Annual Fund Campaign with a goal of 30 friends to make monthly Faithful Neighbor commitments. Visit https://lwr.org/

From Generation to Generation: ALCM and LSM at St. Olaf College in 2026.
In the summer of 2026, Lutheran Summer Music is proud to partner with the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians, with both organizations in residence at St. Olaf College, creating a shared setting for intergenerational learning, performance, and renewal in classical and sacred music.
Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) and the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) share a longstanding commitment to music in worship, education, and community life. This partnership reflects a shared investment in supporting church musicians and students, strengthening musical leadership, and sustaining the traditions of sacred and classical music.
Through this partnership, LSM and ALCM seek to:

• Provide meaningful opportunities for education, networking, and mentorship between professional church musicians and students

• Highlight the role of music in worship and community life

• Connect the LSM community with a national network of church musicians

https://www.lsmacademy.org/news/2026/alcm-lsm

Updates Beginning 18 January 2026

Important! Due to a theft from a car parked near the Choir door, it may be prudent to park on the south side where there is visibility from the front doors. Our phone system remains down. The main line is forwarded to a cellphone which will be answered during business hours. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash

Today: Adult Faith Development will be discussing the history of Christian Nationalism. Bring your drink and snacks to the Conference Room at 11:15am for an important conversation on this topic. ~Jane Voelkel, for the AFD Team

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Continues. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who is leading a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~Thanks, Sally Trigg

2026 is a new year of giving to St. Paul and its ministries. Regarding the old year just completed, your 2025 GIVING STATEMENT is available if you would like it for your income tax preparation. All you need to do is send an email to finsec@stpaulabq.org or you can call me at (505) 363-2284. Happy New Year of giving! ~Paula Eglinton

Kitchen Renovation Begins 1/26. Ryan Millis will start bringing in tools, painting, countertops, removing old hoods, etc. on Mon. 1/26. The South side of the Fellowship Hall will be dedicated to space for all items in the kitchen. We will have two tables and space for appliances, taking around 1/4 of the Fellowship Hall.  Ryan will be setting up his tools on the other side of the Kitchen in Fellowship Hall. Please note: the kitchen will be out of commission from 1/26 to 2/13. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

The hat makers have hats saved for our colder weather. A box in the Narthex is full of various sizes and colors. Feel free to take a few for your car and pass them out as you see need. Thank you for sharing warmth. ~Julie Ambrogi

Spiritual Grounding Group. We are living in turbulent times, and staying spiritually grounded can be tough!  A Spiritual Grounding Group, meeting once each month for about an hour over Zoom, will start in February.  We will be exploring different ways to stay spiritually grounded, including the labyrinth, quiet, journaling, breathing exercises, and the like.  Participants will help determine the group's agenda, and our time together will be guided by the St. Paul Community Covenant.  The meeting time will depend upon the availability of interested people.  If you are interested or have questions, contact Jane Voelkel at 505-980-9162 or jvoelkel@aol.com, or Kathy Westley at kathywestley@yahoo.com by January 31.

God’s Work Our Hands: For our January project, we are collecting donations towards hygiene kits for HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please put “hygiene kits” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods (or pet food) and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Today (Rev. Grubbs is the new director of NM Conference of Churches):

Lutheran Social Services Presentation on Tuesday, Jan 20: St Luke’s Learners & Servers group would like to extend an invitation to a presentation by Lutheran Family Services on the services they provide.  It will take place on Tuesday, January 20th in our Fellowship Hall.  We will have a salad luncheon at 12:15 and the speaker at 1:30. St. Luke’s Lutheran is at 9100 Menaul Blvd NE 87112. 
          LFS will do a 45-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session.  The speaker will focus on how recent governmental changes in immigration and asylum have impacted their operations and outline their current mission and priorities for the LFS Refuge and Asylee program. 
          We would love for you to join us.  Please let me know if you will be able to attend. Thank you, Diane Quarles, Learners & Servers, 505-264-5444

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Curry Issues Statement on ICE Shooting in Minneapolis:

Learn to do good; seek justice; rescue the oppressed; defend the orphan; plead for the widow. (Isaiah 1:17)

Alongside our siblings in Christ in Minneapolis and throughout Minnesota and all who have been impacted by aggressive immigration enforcement and violence by federal law enforcement agents, I mourn the shocking shooting death of Renee Nicole Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent on Jan. 7, 2026. I join calls for a thorough investigation into this case, accountability for the shooting and a de-escalation of ICE enforcement across the United States. Alongside the Lutherans who have held vigils in Minneapolis and around the country, our church prays for God’s peace in this community and justice in this case.
The ELCA is committed to upholding and guaranteeing basic human rights for the safety of migrants and their families. Our church works toward just and humane policies affecting migrants in and outside the United States. We decry language that dehumanizes immigrants who are beloved children of God and escalates tensions between federal agents and communities. Surges of immigration enforcement and violent encounters like we are seeing in Minneapolis — as well as in Chicago; Atlanta; Los Angeles; Portland, Ore.; and Washington, D.C.— have indiscriminately targeted our neighbors, creating fear and uncertainty. This has created conditions where immigrants, those accompanying them and federal agents are all at risk. 
ELCA social teaching provides guidance in complex situations: “Public safety depends upon trust in law enforcement to respect and protect the rights of all” (“Gun-related Violence and Trauma”). As a church, we are concerned by the trend of law enforcement and federal agents involved in immigration enforcement relying on the use of force in our communities without sufficient accountability or oversight. 
God calls us to be witnesses to God’s presence, healing and hope. I invite ongoing prayers, vigils and advocacy for peace and justice, and I affirm the ELCA’s “pledge to continue our church’s historic leadership in caring for refugees and immigrants” (For Peace in God’s World).
In Christ,
The Rev. Yehiel Curry, Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America 

This Week: 2026 National Day of Racial Healing. The ELCA, in partnership with Augsburg Fortress, will observe the 2026 National Day of Racial Healing (NDORH) with a free evening program on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 6-8 p.m. Central time:
“Just Us Narratives: A Night of Centering Multiracial Voices Across the ELCA”
Online and in person at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Naperville, Ill.
We invite you to save the date and check back for more details.
          As a sacred practice, story sharing highlights history, preserves language, engages culture, offers wisdom, sustains survival and teaches lessons that foster connection. Join us for a night of intentional storytelling, deep listening and reflection, featuring diverse voices that will draw us closer together.
          The NDORH follows Martin Luther King Jr. Day and is hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation as part of its Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation efforts to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and encourage actions that build a more just and inclusive church and society.
          Online attendees: No registration is required. A link to join virtually will be available on the NDORH webpage. For more information, visit elca.org/NDORH.

This Week from Global Refuge: The New Year is here, bringing with it more immigration policy changes and dangerous rhetoric—but also powerful stories of resilience, supportive communities, and innovative solutions for refugees and other immigrants in the United States. Join Global Refuge President and CEO Krish O'Mara Vignarajah and other members of our leadership team as we explore six of the top trends we’re seeing in policy, advocacy, programming, and more. We’ll share how we’re meeting this moment in 2026 and beyond, hear from a past client with a powerful story, and offer ways for supportive communities to make a difference in the work of welcome.

The Work of Welcome
Six Trends We're Watching in 2026
Date: Friday, January 23
Time: 1 p.m. ET
Location: Zoom
Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_y_vAnScfRCyYVB7j8MX-cg?mc_cid=f520eb0121&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Registration is open for the 2026 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon, scheduled for Wednesday, February 4th! We are pleased that First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe, a long-time member of our advocating congregation program, will return as host for the morning Issue Briefing. We will return to the La Fonda Hotel for the Bishop's Luncheon.

Schedule
9:15 a.m. - 10:00 Check-in and refreshments at First Presbyterian
(208 Grant Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501)

10:00 a.m. Welcome and Opening Devotion
10:15 a.m. Guest Speakers
11:15 a.m. Break
11:30 a.m. Bible Study - Bishop Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni
11:45 a.m. Advocacy Agenda and Issue Briefing
12:30 - 1 p.m. Transition to La Fonda Hotel
(100 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501)
1:00-1:15 p.m. Bishop's Luncheon Begins
2:45 - 3 p.m. Luncheon concludes

The registration cost per person is $45 per person. 
(Note, this is not a fundraiser as the registration charge covers most, but not all, of the anticipated cost for the event.)

The Bishop's Luncheon will include a wonderful La Fonda lunch, award presentations, and a keynote address from the Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod (ELCA), the Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni. I am confident that all in attendance last year would say Bishop Meghan's keynote was incredibly powerful and spot-on, and no doubt it will be again this year! Register at: https://www.lutheranadvocacynm.org/

Are you willing to have others ride with you to Santa Fe from your faith community? An important way that you can support this event is by helping to organize carpools. Please email us with your name and faith community, and let us know how many additional seats you have. Even better, publicize on your own within your faith community. Please email us at Lutheranadvocacy@yahoo.com. Our Methodist participants will again this year rent a bus for their folks, but may have some open seats. We will publicize availability and contact information in upcoming emails.

2026 Advocacy Agenda - Key Areas of Focus:
Hunger
Affordable Housing & Homelessness
Family-Sustaining Income
Health Care
Tax Policy
Criminal Justice
Care of Creation
Good Governance

Coffee with Christine, Feb 4th, 9:30 PT/12:30 ET. Join Christine Moffett, ELCA Environmental Policy Advocate for coffee and discussion! Feel free to ask your questions about Federal policy, especially environment. Knowledge is power! bit.ly/coffee-christine

Bread for the World Launch: 2026 Offering of Letters Tues., Feb. 10, at 8 pm ET. Join Bread President and CEO Rev. Eugene Cho and staff, as well as hundreds of advocates across the country for this online launch. During our time together, you’ll learn how you and your community can join this nationwide letter writing movement asking Congress to recommit to ending hunger. You’ll hear about the most pressing hunger related issues in Congress right now, learn tactics we can use together to speak up on these issues, and commit together to advocating through the 2026 campaign. Register at:
https://go.bread.org/page/91715/survey/1?utm_medium=email&utm_source=engagingnetworks&utm_campaign=26QO&utm_content=OG+2026+OL+Launch+Email+Invite+01.16.26+-+Core 

Reconciling Works’ Winter 2026 newsletter is posted in the Welcome Center. Also at: https://www.reconcilingworks.org/2026-winter-newsletter/.

From the ELCA Advocacy Office: As we grapple with the implications of Artificial intelligence, a new Issue Paper has been published by the ELCA Corporate Social Responsibility. Issue Papers interpret ELCA social teaching as it relates to investments. https://resources.elca.org/corporate-social-responsibility/artificial-intelligence-issue-paper/

Updates Beginning 11 January 2026

Important! Two items to note: Last Sunday, a catalytic converter was stolen from a car parked near the Choir Room door. It may be prudent to park more centrally, on the south side where there is visibility from the front doors. Also, the phone system remains down. A third party sliced through Century Link’s cables. This is affecting many customers and they don’t have a projected completion date. The main line is now forwarded to a cellphone which will be answered during business hours. Thank you. ~Deborah Ash

Today: The New Mexico state legislature will begin its yearly session on the 20th of this month. While this will be the "short session," only 30 days long, with an agenda limited to the budget and items specifically called for by the governor. However, it should be an interesting session given possible limitations on "new money" (revenue available for new programs) and several issues that may be on the governor's agenda.
          Unknowns abound, but we know Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM will be on hand providing information and advocating for issues important to the church. To help us understand what is at stake and what LAM-NM intends to work on, we are privileged to welcome our friend Kurt Rager, Director of LAM-NM, to lead an information and discussion session this Sunday morning at 11:15 in the Conference Room. You won't want to miss hearing about the legislative session and how YOU can be involved. Bob Matthews, for Adult Faith Development

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Continues. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who is leading a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Volunteer Assistance 1/20 for Cleaning out Kitchen before Renovation Begins 1/26. Greetings All! We are in need of volunteers to clean out the kitchen and move various appliances on January 20th, Tuesday, around 10am. The Kitchen Renovation will begin on 1/26, when Ryan will start bringing in tools, painting, countertop, removing old hoods, etc.  Prior to his arrival on we need to clear out the kitchen as much as possible.  We need help moving out items from all drawers, cabinets, taking items off the walls. We also need some muscle on the heavy work, moving out the refrigerator, two stoves and dishwasher.  We have dollies and rolling carts to assist in the heavier items.
          The South side of the Fellowship Hall will be dedicated to space for all items in the kitchen.  We will have two tables and space for appliances, taking around 1/4 of the Fellowship Hall.  Ryan will be setting up his tools on the other side of the Kitchen in Fellowship Hall.  We will also be washing walls, washing behind the refrigerator, stove and dishwasher after getting out those items, prior to it being painted.  I would bring gloves as it may be pretty dirty.  
          If you or anyone you know can help with this project, please reach out to me via email to confirm, facilities@stpaulabq.org.  As the phones are still down, an email is best at this time to confirm your spot.  You can always call me on my cell: 505-264-6456. We appreciate you coming forward to help on this project!  Thank you. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Spiritual Grounding Group. We are living in turbulent times, and staying spiritually grounded can be tough!  A Spiritual Grounding Group, meeting once each month for about an hour over Zoom, will start in February.  We will be exploring different ways to stay spiritually grounded, including the labyrinth, quiet, journaling, breathing exercises, and the like.  Participants will help determine the group's agenda, and our time together will be guided by the St. Paul Community Covenant.  The meeting time will depend upon the availability of interested people.  If you are interested or have questions, contact Jane Voelkel at 505-980-9162 or jvoelkel@aol.com, or Kathy Westley at kathywestley@yahoo.com by January 31.

God’s Work Our Hands: For our January project, we are collecting donations towards hygiene kits for HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please put “hygiene kits” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Watch Luther House/The Open Table Connection’s new promotional video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDjFD4oP4Lw

Civic Saturday, January 17, a morning gathering focused on storytelling, creativity, and community connection, followed by a community beautification project where we’ll come together to care for our shared spaces. Please register for each activity using the links below:

Civic Saturday: Stories, Creativity, and Community Connection – 11am–2pm
Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/civic-saturday-stories-creativity-and-community-connection-tickets-1979418170031?aff=oddtdtcreator
Community Beautification Project (Clean-Up) – 2-4pm
Sign up here:
https://www.oneabqvolunteers.com/need/detail/?need_id=1182314

Lutheran Social Services Presentation on Tuesday, Jan 20: St Luke’s Learners & Servers group would like to extend an invitation to a presentation by Lutheran Family Services on the services they provide.  It will take place on Tuesday, January 20th in our Fellowship Hall.  We will have a salad luncheon at 12:15 and the speaker at 1:30. St. Luke’s Lutheran is at 9100 Menaul Blvd NE 87112. 
          LFS will do a 45-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session.  The speaker will focus on how recent governmental changes in immigration and asylum have impacted their operations and outline their current mission and priorities for the LFS Refuge and Asylee program. 
          We would love for you to join us.  Please let me know if you will be able to attend. Thank you, Diane Quarles, Learners & Servers, 505-264-5444

 From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Curry Issues Statement on Venezuela.
Dear siblings in Christ,
There is concern across this church about the Jan. 3, 2026, U.S. military action in Venezuela and what has or will follow. I believe that this Sunday’s celebration of Jesus’ baptism, and our own, can provide understanding, guide our prayers and promote faithful action at this time. The baptism of our Lord reminds us that Jesus is God’s own beloved child, who has come to fulfill an age-old promise to bring justice and peace to the nations (Isaiah 42:1).
          As God’s beloved, Christians share in Jesus’ ministry and compassion for the vulnerable. Our prayers remain with the people of Venezuela. We pray for their safety and well-being, for their livelihoods, and for reliable access to food, health care and clean water. Our church walks in solidarity with them through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela — their people, pastors, deacons and ministries. Support is also expressed in the broader Christian community, both in Venezuela and among the Venezuelan diaspora, who have long called for and worked toward peace, democracy and human rights.
          As baptized children of God, Lutherans are set free to seek the well-being of our neighbors. Over 600,000 Venezuelans in the United States face uncertainty without renewal of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and deportations of Venezuelan migrants continue despite these anxious times in their homeland. As Venezuela navigates a tenuous situation, our nation has a responsibility for a mindful humanitarian response.
           We continue our call for humanitarian support for migrant-serving organizations in neighboring countries and pathways to asylum in the United States for Venezuelans and all with credible fears of persecution.
          As followers of Jesus, we seek justice for the nations. As a church in this country, we call for what transpires next to center the Venezuelan people and their right to self-determination. We, as a country, must resist any temptation to use this occasion to foster special or corporate economic interests. As Venezuela faces continued instability, more people are likely to face displacement. 
          Let us avoid further polarization as we respond to what is unfolding. Lutheran theology affirms that two things at once can be true. The removal of Nicolás Maduro, a corrupt authoritarian, and the end of his brutal repression are causes for celebration for many. At the same time, U.S. action in Venezuela without the constitutionally mandated authorization of the U.S. Congress violated international law and created a dangerous precedent that weakens global peace and security. Our social teaching tells us that any conflict must meet strict moral criteria rooted in the principles of “right intention, justifiable cause, legitimate authority …” (For Peace in God’s World, page 11).
          In this highly complex and dangerous moment, Christians remember that Jesus is God's beloved child. Through our baptisms, this identity and mission forms us and calls us to civic action. We are called to speak the truth in love but with clarity about accountability for any abuse of power. In this time, we can advocate boldly for a peaceful way forward and urge the U.S. Congress to exert its authority over war powers and ensure due process is followed. This action is especially critical when risking U.S. troops’ lives and the lives of civilians around the world.
          As we remember the meaning of baptism for action in the world, let us be fervent in prayer for our siblings in Christ in Venezuela. Let us also support and accompany Venezuelans and their families worldwide. Born in Venezuela, Bishop Pedro Suárez of the ELCA Florida-Bahamas Synod wrote the following prayer: By your Holy Spirit, kindle hope that does not disappoint and peace that surpasses all understanding. We entrust Venezuela, its people and your church into your loving hands, trusting not in our own strength but in your steadfast love made known in Jesus Christ, who is our peace. Amen.
In Christ,
The Rev. Yehiel Curry
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America 

Email Congress now asking them to extend healthcare affordability.

The House of Representatives is expected to vote as soon as this week on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies that help millions afford healthcare. Expanded ACA subsidies expired on December 31, 2025, leaving nearly 22 million people and many small businesses with unaffordable costs - pricing many in need of healthcare out of the market. 
          According to the Urban Institute, over 4.8 million people could lose coverage entirely if Congress fails to extend these premiums – and millions more could see their monthly cost increase or double. Rural communities – where Lutheran hospitals often serve as lifelines – will be hit the hardest. Many families in these areas and across the nation depend on these subsidies to access basic healthcare. 
          ELCA social teaching affirms that government, civil society and community all have roles in sustaining the health of the most vulnerable – highlighting that health is a critical part of the whole human person. Lutheran social ministries and hospitals exemplify this mission daily but cannot do this work alone.
          The House is poised to act, but your elected officials in both the House and Senate need to hear about your values and experiences. Please urge your lawmakers to extend these subsidies and protect healthcare access for those who need it most. To take action, go to:
https://act.elca.org/page/92624/action/1?utm_medium=email&utm_source=engagingnetworks&utm_campaign=utm_wis-email-12182025&utm_content=172026+Urge+Congress+to+Extend+Healthcare+Subsidies+this+week+7787332750&ea.url.id=4458554

Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/AaHDuhjpThmhCqqoaG9q9g#/registration

Tomorrow, 12 January: Interfaith Alliance is dedicated to rallying religious Americans around the message of “Choose Love, Not ICE” – making clear that brutality, repression and mass deportation runs totally counter to our values of compassion and mercy, and our belief in the common dignity and humanity of all people.
          Following the horrific killing of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, faith communities there and around the country are continuing to show up right now to organize against ICE’s violence and cruelty.
          We are committed to supporting nonviolent civil resistance among diverse faith communities around the country. As part of that work, we are offering a virtual 2-hour training on Monday night, 12 January at 7 pm ET/4 pm PT: Answering the Call: Interfaith Nonviolent Civil Resistance 201.
          The training builds on the long legacy of faith-led movements for justice and introduces practical frameworks for disciplined, strategic, and morally grounded nonviolent action. Together, participants will explore how people of faith can strengthen democracy, resist authoritarianism, and support one another through collective action rooted in our shared values. This training is for you if you are:

• A clergy member, lay leader, or organizer figuring out how you can best lead and organize in  this moment 

• Part of an interfaith or faith-based community committed showing up for democracy and human dignity 

• Looking for the hope that can be found in concrete tools, shared language, and real-world examples of effective nonviolent resistance 

The session is part of a broader national campaign to equip and connect interfaith leaders across the country to challenge authoritarianism and ICE cruelty—and participants will have opportunities to stay engaged through future trainings and local collaboration.
          Join us as we answer this call together—grounded in faith, guided by conscience, and committed to the work of democracy for all. Register at:
https://support.interfaithalliance.org/a/answering-call-interfaith-nonviolent-civil-resistance-201?utm_campaign=webinar&utm_source=ea&utm_medium=email&sourceid=1124442&emci=cabf8c47-b4ec-f011-8195-000d3a1d58aa&emdi=bd23286d-bcec-f011-8195-000d3a1d58aa&ceid=35403917

2026 National Day of Racial Healing. The ELCA, in partnership with Augsburg Fortress, will observe the 2026 National Day of Racial Healing (NDORH) with a free evening program on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 6-8 p.m. Central time:
“Just Us Narratives: A Night of Centering Multiracial Voices Across the ELCA”
Online and in person at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Naperville, Ill.
We invite you to save the date and check back for more details.
          As a sacred practice, story sharing highlights history, preserves language, engages culture, offers wisdom, sustains survival and teaches lessons that foster connection. Join us for a night of intentional storytelling, deep listening and reflection, featuring diverse voices that will draw us closer together.
          The NDORH follows Martin Luther King Jr. Day and is hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation as part of its Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation efforts to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and encourage actions that build a more just and inclusive church and society.
          Online attendees: No registration is required. A link to join virtually will be available on the NDORH webpage. For more information, visit elca.org/NDORH.

Global Refuge: The New Year is here, bringing with it more immigration policy changes and dangerous rhetoric—but also powerful stories of resilience, supportive communities, and innovative solutions for refugees and other immigrants in the United States. Join Global Refuge President and CEO Krish O'Mara Vignarajah and other members of our leadership team as we explore six of the top trends we’re seeing in policy, advocacy, programming, and more. We’ll share how we’re meeting this moment in 2026 and beyond, hear from a past client with a powerful story, and offer ways for supportive communities to make a difference in the work of welcome.

The Work of Welcome
Six Trends We're Watching in 2026
Date: Friday, January 23
Time: 1 p.m. ET
Location: Zoom
Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_y_vAnScfRCyYVB7j8MX-cg?mc_cid=f520eb0121&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Registration is open for the 2026 Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon, scheduled for Wednesday, February 4th! We are pleased that First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe, a long-time member of our advocating congregation program, will return as host for the morning Issue Briefing. We will return to the La Fonda Hotel for the Bishop's Luncheon.

Schedule
9:15 a.m. - 10:00 Check-in and refreshments at First Presbyterian
(208 Grant Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501)
10:00 a.m. Welcome and Opening Devotion
10:15 a.m. Guest Speakers
11:15 a.m. Break
11:30 a.m. Bible Study - Bishop Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni
11:45 a.m. Advocacy Agenda and Issue Briefing
12:30 - 1 p.m. Transition to La Fonda Hotel
(100 E San Francisco St, Santa Fe, NM 87501)
1:00-1:15 p.m. Bishop's Luncheon Begins
2:45 - 3 p.m. Luncheon concludes

The registration cost per person is $45 per person. 
(Note, this is not a fundraiser as the registration charge covers most, but not all, of the anticipated cost for the event.)

The Bishop's Luncheon will include a wonderful La Fonda lunch, award presentations, and a keynote address from the Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod (ELCA), the Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni. I am confident that all in attendance last year would say Bishop Meghan's keynote was incredibly powerful and spot-on, and no doubt it will be again this year!
Register at: https://www.lutheranadvocacynm.org/

Are you willing to have others ride with you to Santa Fe from your faith community? An important way that you can support this event is by helping to organize carpools. Please email us with your name and faith community, and let us know how many additional seats you have. Even better, publicize on your own within your faith community. Please email us at Lutheranadvocacy@yahoo.com. Our Methodist participants will again this year rent a bus for their folks, but may have some open seats. We will publicize availability and contact information in upcoming emails.

2026 Advocacy Agenda
Key Areas of Focus:
Hunger
Affordable Housing & Homelessness
Family-Sustaining Income
Health Care
Tax Policy
Criminal Justice
Care of Creation
Good Governance

Lenten Devotional from Bread for the World:Walking as Children of Light.  In the devotional, we invite readers to reflect on how our practices of faith can bring the light of Christ to the world. As we journey toward the cross, we keep the light of Christ shining through us to bear witness to God’s love and justice and to connect us as we raise our voices in advocacy.
          The devotional has one entry for each week of Lent. In each entry, you will find a scripture, a reflection, a prayer, and a practice to take through the week. The scriptures assigned follow the Revised Common Lectionary.
          Copies are available in the Welcome Center, or you can download it at: https://www.bread.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Bread-LentDevotional2026_V2.pdf

Updates Beginning 4 January 2026

Today: In our Adult Faith Development class, Teresa Dubuque will facilitate a discussion on spiritual intentions for the coming year. Bring your snacks to the Conference Room following worship. ~Bob Matthews for the AFD Team

This Thursday: New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

God’s Work Our Hands: For our January project, we are collecting donations towards hygiene kits for HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please put “hygiene kits” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

2026 National Day of Racial Healing. The ELCA, in partnership with Augsburg Fortress, will observe the 2026 National Day of Racial Healing (NDORH) with a free evening program on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 6-8 p.m. Central time: “Just Us Narratives: A Night of Centering Multiracial Voices Across the ELCA”. Online and in person at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Naperville, Ill. We invite you to save the date and check back for more details.
          As a sacred practice, story sharing highlights history, preserves language, engages culture, offers wisdom, sustains survival and teaches lessons that foster connection. Join us for a night of intentional storytelling, deep listening and reflection, featuring diverse voices that will draw us closer together.
          The NDORH follows Martin Luther King Jr. Day and is hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation as part of its Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation efforts to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and encourage actions that build a more just and inclusive church and society.

The new LivingLutheran.org is now live! Set up a free digital membership and enjoy these can’t-miss features:
A welcoming, easy-to-access format.
A personalized, custom dashboard that prioritizes the stories that interest you.
Access to members-only content.
E-news email delivery options to get the stories you want, both online and in your inbox.
https://www.livinglutheran.org/voices-of-faith/the-new-livinglutheran-org/

The AMMPARO Team is grateful to have been able to work with you all this year. As we celebrate the holidays with family and friends, we are conscious of  the many people who have been separated from their families, some deported, some detained, without regard for their humanity as children of God. Please visit Free Families website at https://freefamilies.net/ and find at least one opportunity to use the materials in their toolkit to share a story about someone you know who has experienced this, or go to their YouTube channel to find a story to play and pray for justice for all who are suffering.

A new AMMPARO resource. A new conversation guide about dehumanizing language. You will find the resource at the end of this blog: https://blogs.elca.org/ammparo/created-in-the-image-of-god-a-conversation-guide-to-affirm-our-shared-dignity/

Know Your Rights Resource: Parents have a right to make decisions about the care and safety of their children, even while in ICE custody—which is why the National Immigration Law Center and Center for Law and Social Policy developed Know Your Rights, a multilingual resource for immigrant parents. It details the rights that parents have while being apprehended and detained by ICE to ensure that parents have a say in protecting their children and keeping them safe. https://www.clasp.org/publications/fact-sheet/know-your-rights-parents-detained-by-ice/

Updates Beginning 28 December 2025

Thank You! to everyone who made Wednesday’s two Christmas Eve services so wonderful and inspiring-each service had an amazing team of volunteers, plus all those who decorated the Sanctuary, placed luminarias, brought their poinsettias, and made Christmas Eve so very special here at St. Paul! ~Deborah Ash

Today: No Adult Faith Development class, but if you want to hang out, someone(s) will be in the conference room. The next class is Jan. 4, when Teresa Dubuque will facilitate a discussion on spiritual intentions for the coming year. Hope your Christmas is a blessing and that your new year will be filled with challenge and joy. ~Bob Matthews for the AFD Team

December Finance Corner: The Finance Committee brings some good news with the end of the month November financial reports. Thanks to your generous giving we are over budget for offerings by $18,000.  Calico’s income is also up by $17,000, a new high for this time of year.  And, our Facility Usage, just in its first full year of operation, is $29,000 over budget (largely due to Bradbury Stamm’s parking space rental). Collectively, these increases in income have reduced the 2025 projected budget deficits from $101,000 to $71,000 (that’s after adjusting for several increases in November expenses).
          A good financial footing will allow us to continue with our various missions which are important to us and helps so many others who rely on them.
Thanks to all of you who continue to bless St. Paul. ~The Finance Committee

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 1 January 2026. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

A Thank You to St. Paul:

Dear St. Paul Lutheran Church,

As we celebrate the joy of Christmas, we want to pause and offer our heartfelt thanks to you for your faithful partnership with ReconcilingWorks. Your commitment to welcome, inclusion, celebration, and justice for LGBTQIA+ people continues to be a powerful witness to God’s liberating love in the church and in the world.
          Because of you, more communities are becoming places where LGBTQIA+ people are fully seen, deeply valued, and truly belong. Your courage, generosity, and dedication strengthen this movement and remind us that the work of reconciliation is holy, hopeful, and deeply needed.
          At Christmas, we proclaim the good news that God comes to dwell among us—with love that breaks down barriers and light that shines even in the darkest places. We are grateful to walk this journey with you as we continue building a church rooted in that promise.
          May this Christmas season bring you peace, joy, rest, and renewed hope. Thank you for all the ways you live out your Reconciling in Christ commitment and for being such a vital part of this community.

With deep gratitude and Christmas blessings,
The ReconcilingWorks Board and Staff

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Have you ever heard a whisper? | Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry | Christmas 2025. In his Christmas message to the church, Bishop Curry delivers a children’s sermon, describing the night when Jesus was born. “One silent night, far away in a town called Bethlehem, the stars twinkled brighter than ever. And the angels were there too. It was as if the whole sky was whispering: ‘Something wonderful is happening.’”
          Curry emphasizes that “whispers make us stop, listen and pay attention” and reminds us that, this Christmas, we should listen closely because “the heavens are still whispering: ‘Jesus is here. God loves you. Share that love with the world.’”
          Watch at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiM3tHLKMr4

This month RMS is praying for our Companion Synod in Madagascar: Gracious God, we give thanks for our companion partners in Madagascar — the Mahajanga Synod, the Antsiranana Synod, the Sambava Synod, the Sofia Synod, and Betela Seminary. Bless their ministry, strengthen their witness, and deepen our mutual partnership in the gospel. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

A new AMMPARO resource. A new conversation guide about dehumanizing language. You will find the resource at the end of this blog: https://blogs.elca.org/ammparo/created-in-the-image-of-god-a-conversation-guide-to-affirm-our-shared-dignity/

Know Your Rights Resource: Parents have a right to make decisions about the care and safety of their children, even while in ICE custody—which is why the National Immigration Law Center and Center for Law and Social Policy developed Know Your Rights, a multilingual resource for immigrant parents. It details the rights that parents have while being apprehended and detained by ICE to ensure that parents have a say in protecting their children and keeping them safe. Available in Spanish and English at: https://www.clasp.org/publications/fact-sheet/know-your-rights-parents-detained-by-ice/

This season calls all of us to love and support our neighbors, especially in times of tension and division—times like right now. Your gift to Global Refuge today will be matched by a generous donor to provide twice the support and services our refugee neighbors need right now: 

·        TWICE the emergency rent and food assistance

·        TWICE the immigration legal services

·        TWICE the job placement and training

Please give today, while you can still make double the impact during this increasingly challenging time for our refugee and other immigrant neighbors.
https://www.globalrefuge.org/

Thanks to a special BONUS MATCH, your caring gift to Lutheran World Relief this Christmas is matched dollar for dollar to provide a safe place to live for families who were forced out of their homes to escape life-threatening violence, desperate for peace. Your love will deliver 2X the food, water, clothing and shelter — shining the hope of the newborn Christ’s light into their frightened hearts.

Your gift today can brighten their days and will DOUBLE in impact to:

·        Provide families with nourishing food and clean water.

·        Deliver safe shelter for God’s children.

·        Heal your sick neighbors with access to medical supplies.

·        Give hardworking families love and hope for a brighter tomorrow.

https://lwr.org/

Now more than ever, the work of Bread for the World is essential. Hunger does not wait for elections, policies, or political will. Families are making impossible choices today between paying rent, filling prescriptions, or putting food on the table.
With your generosity, we will continue to urge Congress to restore funding for vital programs, like SNAP and international food aid, and to advocate to help feed our neighbors.
Due to a new match, your gift to Bread for the World today will have 6X the impact, up to $120,000. (This season’s original match up to $500,000 has been met!). This increases your support of our advocacy to restore and fully fund programs that help end hunger in the year ahead.
Thank you for all you do to support our advocacy for an end to hunger.
https://www.bread.org/

2025 Year in Review: https://www.lsmacademy.org/news/2025/year-in-review

Updates Beginning 21 December 2025

Today:  It's Advent again, and you may notice that the scripture readings for worship for these weeks will be heavily concerned about prophesy. And this raises perennial questions: What is prophecy? Who are the prophets? Was Jesus a prophet? Is there still prophesy today? Join the Adult Faith Development class this Advent as we explore prophecy and prophets. The conversation will be stimulating, and we may even come up with some surprising answers. The class meets after service today. Bring your questions and curiosity. We'll take all of them seriously. ~Bob Matthews

Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants: For those of you currently on the schedule: I will be making the new schedule very soon. Please notify me no later than Monday Dec 22 of any dates or specific requests for scheduling. WE ALWAYS WELCOME NEW WORSHIP ASSISTANTS.  If you are interested in serving as a communion assistant or assisting minister, please notify me by Sunday, Dec 21. I will be making a new schedule and it is a perfect time to get on board. Training provided!  ~Peace, Terry Cole (tecole51@comcast.net 505-362-3775)

December Finance Corner: The Finance Committee brings some good news with the end of the month November financial reports. Thanks to your generous giving we are over budget for offerings by $18,000.  Calico’s income is also up by $17,000, a new high for this time of year.  And, our Facility Usage, just in its first full year of operation, is $29,000 over budget (largely due to Bradbury Stamm’s parking space rental). Collectively, these increases in income have reduced the 2025 projected budget deficits from $101,000 to $71,000 (that’s after adjusting for several increases in November expenses).
          A good financial footing will allow us to continue with our various missions which are important to us and helps so many others who rely on them.
Thanks to all of you who continue to bless St. Paul. ~The Finance Committee

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 1 January 2026. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

ELCA Good Gifts: One of the ministries that our St. Paul Youth has continued over the years is collecting aluminum can donations from our St. Paul congregation.  Bob and Nancy Matthews have supported this ministry by taking and selling the cans to a local recycling facility.  During the 2025 calendar year, $221.35 was raised.  Noah Rabezanany and Gabriel Rabezanany, two of our youth, thoughtfully selected the following ELCA Good Gift items from the 2025 Christmas ELCA Good Gifts catalog: 1 goat with a flock of chicks; 2 water filters; school supplies for 3 children; 5 backpacks stocked with food; and serving 10 people at a feeding ministry.  The order was submitted to ELCA on Dec. 8th.  The funds raised will be matched by ELCA through their end-of-year campaign.  Thank you to everyone who participates by bringing in aluminum cans for recycling.    ~Peggy Burnett

From Local Partner Organizations

Cancelled: Today’s New Mexico Brass Quintet Concert. Due to illness, the Quartet will look to do a program sometime this spring here at St. Paul.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

A Christmas message from Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni – December 2025.
A couple of months ago, Gabi and I were going through some boxes we still hadn’t unpacked after returning to the U.S. last year, and we found a treasure: our olive wood nativity set from Bethlehem. We couldn’t find it last year and feared it had been lost in the move. But suddenly, when we weren’t looking for it, there it was: the stable, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds and the Magi, an angel, some sheep, a camel—and of course, a manger and a baby Jesus. (None of the smooth wood figurines have distinguishing features, so we take our best guess on who’s who.)
          There is a tradition to only place baby Jesus in the nativity on Christmas Eve, to mark the day and what it means: Jesus arrives! Jesus is born. God chooses to take on a human body and a human life in the midst of our world. This is the good news of Christmas, and the heart of our faith. Everything that comes after—Jesus’ ministry of compassion and justice, his death on the cross, and his resurrection to new life—begins here and now. Jesus is God with us, God fully present in a person who is fully human. And God arrives, not only as a human being, but a child: a vulnerable, fragile, beautiful baby who depends on others for his very survival. Jesus’ life, in the beginning as in the end, is placed in the hands of humanity: not so that we can prove our worthiness to God by doing the right thing, but to show that even when we don’t—when we squander the gift of divine love and crush the gift of human life—we ourselves are in the hands of a God who turns fear into love, despair into hope, and death into life.
          This good news still matters. Jesus still matters! Around the world there are nativity scenes waiting for Jesus to arrive, trusting in a God who so loves the world that God becomes part of it. Some nativities are set up to remember Jesus the refugee, who with his parents fled to another country to escape state violence. Some are set up to remember that Jesus was Jewish and Palestinian, from a land whose children now live among the rubble of bombs. Some will be set up by people who are spending their first Christmas without a loved one, or contemplating their last; or in families where there is new life this year that last year had not yet arrived.
          But in every single nativity, in every single place, we know this: Jesus will arrive. Jesus always arrives. Jesus shows up in this world, even and especially where things are heartbreaking, where fear and grief are running high and hope is running low. We may misplace our nativity, or even our faith; but we cannot truly lose Jesus or be lost. The child of the manger so long ago and far away held enough love to hold the world forever. Jesus still shows up in big ways and small: in forgiveness and generosity, in caring for the neighbor and welcoming the stranger. And in the places where all seems lost, as it did on the cross, Jesus is there too in all the power of resurrection life, promising that the worst thing will not be the last thing. May this promise not only fill your nativities, but also fill your hearts and lives this year and always. May God with us bless you with hope, with courage, with love. Merry Christmas!

This month RMS is praying for our Companion Synod in Madagascar: Gracious God, we give thanks for our companion partners in Madagascar — the Mahajanga Synod, the Antsiranana Synod, the Sambava Synod, the Sofia Synod, and Betela Seminary. Bless their ministry, strengthen their witness, and deepen our mutual partnership in the gospel. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

A new AMMPARO resource. A new conversation guide about dehumanizing language. You will find the resource at the end of this blog: https://blogs.elca.org/ammparo/created-in-the-image-of-god-a-conversation-guide-to-affirm-our-shared-dignity/

Know Your Rights Resource: Parents have a right to make decisions about the care and safety of their children, even while in ICE custody—which is why the National Immigration Law Center and Center for Law and Social Policy developed Know Your Rights, a multilingual resource for immigrant parents. It details the rights that parents have while being apprehended and detained by ICE to ensure that parents have a say in protecting their children and keeping them safe. Available in Spanish and English at: https://www.clasp.org/publications/fact-sheet/know-your-rights-parents-detained-by-ice/

This season calls all of us to love and support our neighbors, especially in times of tension and division—times like right now. Your gift to Global Refuge today will be matched by a generous donor to provide twice the support and services our refugee neighbors need right now:

·        TWICE the emergency rent and food assistance
·        TWICE the immigration legal services
·        TWICE the job placement and training 

Please give today, while you can still make double the impact during this increasingly challenging time for our refugee and other immigrant neighbors.
https://www.globalrefuge.org/

Thanks to a special BONUS MATCH, your caring gift this Christmas is matched dollar for dollar to provide a safe place to live for families who were forced out of their homes to escape life-threatening violence, desperate for peace. Your love will deliver 2X the food, water, clothing and shelter — shining the hope of the newborn Christ’s light into their frightened hearts.

Your gift today can brighten their days and will DOUBLE in impact to:

·        Provide families with nourishing food and clean water.
·        Deliver safe shelter for God’s children.
·        Heal your sick neighbors with access to medical supplies.
·        Give hardworking families love and hope for a brighter tomorrow.

https://lwr.org/

Now more than ever, the work of Bread for the World is essential. Hunger does not wait for elections, policies, or political will. Families are making impossible choices today between paying rent, filling prescriptions, or putting food on the table.
With your generosity, we will continue to urge Congress to restore funding for vital programs, like SNAP and international food aid, and to advocate to help feed our neighbors.
Your gift to Bread for the World today will be matched $1-for-$1, up to $500,000. This DOUBLES your support of our advocacy to restore and fully fund programs that help end hunger in the year ahead.
Thank you for all you do to support our advocacy for an end to hunger.
https://www.bread.org/

2025 Year in Review: https://www.lsmacademy.org/news/2025/year-in-review

Updates Beginning 14 December 2025

Today:  It's Advent again, and you may notice that the scripture readings for worship for these weeks will be heavily concerned about prophesy. And this raises perennial questions: What is prophecy? Who are the prophets? Was Jesus a prophet? Is there still prophesy today? Join the Adult Faith Development class this Advent as we explore prophecy and prophets. The conversation will be stimulating, and we may even come up with some surprising answers. The class meets after service today and Dec. 21. Bring your questions and curiosity. We'll take all of them seriously. ~Bob Matthews

For mid-week Advent worship & fellowship we’ll join with our partners of St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church (211 Jefferson St. NE, ABQ) this Thursday, 18 December at 6pm. The evening will begin with a brief worship service using the Salt Project’s resource MAGNIFY: Mary’s Song and the Magnificent Women of Advent, and followed with a soup supper.  So please bring your favorite soup or bread to share.  A sign-up board is in the Welcome Center. ~In peace, hope, love & joy, Pr. Koppel & Worship & Music

Today: Adopted Families Christmas Tree of Giving. All gifts (labeled by name and number) should be returned today, 14 December.  Thank you, thank you, thank you. We are awed by the incredible generosity shown by this community, especially this year. ~Dana M, Paula E, Cheri P

Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants: For those of you currently on the schedule: I will be making the new schedule very soon. Please notify me no later than Monday Dec 22 of any dates or specific requests for scheduling. WE ALWAYS WELCOME NEW WORSHIP ASSISTANTS.  If you are interested in serving as a communion assistant or assisting minister, please notify me by Sunday, Dec 21. I will be making a new schedule and it is a perfect time to get on board. Training provided!  ~Peace, Terry Cole (tecole51@comcast.net 505-362-3775)

This Friday-from Calico Butterfly Preschool:

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 1 January 2026. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

ELCA Good Gifts: One of the ministries that our St. Paul Youth has continued over the years is collecting aluminum can donations from our St. Paul congregation.  Bob and Nancy Matthews have supported this ministry by taking and selling the cans to a local recycling facility.  During the 2025 calendar year, $221.35 was raised.  Noah Rabezanany and Gabriel Rabezanany, two of our youth, thoughtfully selected the following ELCA Good Gift items from the 2025 Christmas ELCA Good Gifts catalog: 1 goat with a flock of chicks; 2 water filters; school supplies for 3 children; 5 backpacks stocked with food; and serving 10 people at a feeding ministry.  The order was submitted to ELCA on Dec. 8th.  The funds raised will be matched by ELCA through their end-of-year campaign.  Thank you to everyone who participates by bringing in aluminum cans for recycling.    ~Peggy Burnett

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). Please let us know by the end of November so we can order materials in early December. ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Thank You! to everyone who made the potlucks for the Congregational Meeting and Wednesday’s Advent Service so successful! Setup, takedown, and delicious dishes—you know who you are! We couldn’t do it without you. ~Deborah Ash

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Five Barrels Full: Since the call went out mid-October to fill both Storehouse barrels by Thanksgiving, they actually picked up five barrels of food for both people and pets at St. Paul. Thank you for your generosity! ~Deborah Ash

A Thank You to St. Paul:

Thank you for your generous gift of $500 to the Storehouse New Mexico FACE (Feeding Area Children Every Day) campaign in partnership with Sandia Federal Area Credit Union. Your support is deeply appreciated, especially during a time when the need in our community has reached unprecedented levels. On behalf of our team and the neighbors we serve, thank you for standing with us. Your kindness and compassion are a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together. We’re truly grateful to have you as a part of our community. Sincerely, Amy Lavender, VP Development & Danee Gallegos, Development Coordinator

From Local Partner Organizations

Next Sunday, December 21 at 2pm here at St. Paul: The New Mexico Brass Quintet. The Quintet will be playing quite a variety, from Mozart, Tchaikovsky, to jazz arrangements and music from Star Trek and Star Wars—plus the Grinch song for the little ones attending. The concert is free and open to the public. Hope to see you there! ~Jeffrey Piper, Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

This month RMS is praying for our Companion Synod in Madagascar: Gracious God, we give thanks for our companion partners in Madagascar — the Mahajanga Synod, the Antsiranana Synod, the Sambava Synod, the Sofia Synod, and Betela Seminary. Bless their ministry, strengthen their witness, and deepen our mutual partnership in the gospel. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

This week: Join ELCA AMMPARO for a teach-in about Immigration Activism. Stories about immigrants, refugees, borders, and deportation are in our news daily and impact our lives and communities in deeply personal ways. How can we take meaningful action in our communities? We will share some ideas. Join Women of the ELCA as they host a webinar with ELCA AMMPARO, Wednesday, December 17 at 6pm Central. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/wzA-gDjNRw6UgCMi8Li-Vw#/registration

Today:  It's Advent again, and you may notice that the scripture readings for worship for these weeks will be heavily concerned about prophesy. And this raises perennial questions: What is prophecy? Who are the prophets? Was Jesus a prophet? Is there still prophesy today? Join the Adult Faith Development class this Advent as we explore prophecy and prophets. The conversation will be stimulating, and we may even come up with some surprising answers. The class meets after service today and Dec. 21. Bring your questions and curiosity. We'll take all of them seriously. ~Bob Matthews

For mid-week Advent worship & fellowship we’ll join with our partners of St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church (211 Jefferson St. NE, ABQ) this Thursday, 18 December at 6pm. The evening will begin with a brief worship service using the Salt Project’s resource MAGNIFY: Mary’s Song and the Magnificent Women of Advent, and followed with a soup supper.  So please bring your favorite soup or bread to share.  A sign-up board is in the Welcome Center. ~In peace, hope, love & joy, Pr. Koppel & Worship & Music

Today: Adopted Families Christmas Tree of Giving. All gifts (labeled by name and number) should be returned today, 14 December.  Thank you, thank you, thank you. We are awed by the incredible generosity shown by this community, especially this year. ~Dana M, Paula E, Cheri P

Assisting Ministers and Communion Assistants: For those of you currently on the schedule: I will be making the new schedule very soon. Please notify me no later than Monday Dec 22 of any dates or specific requests for scheduling. WE ALWAYS WELCOME NEW WORSHIP ASSISTANTS.  If you are interested in serving as a communion assistant or assisting minister, please notify me by Sunday, Dec 21. I will be making a new schedule and it is a perfect time to get on board. Training provided!  ~Peace, Terry Cole (tecole51@comcast.net 505-362-3775)

This Friday-from Calico Butterfly Preschool:

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 1 January 2026. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

ELCA Good Gifts: One of the ministries that our St. Paul Youth has continued over the years is collecting aluminum can donations from our St. Paul congregation.  Bob and Nancy Matthews have supported this ministry by taking and selling the cans to a local recycling facility.  During the 2025 calendar year, $221.35 was raised.  Noah Rabezanany and Gabriel Rabezanany, two of our youth, thoughtfully selected the following ELCA Good Gift items from the 2025 Christmas ELCA Good Gifts catalog: 1 goat with a flock of chicks; 2 water filters; school supplies for 3 children; 5 backpacks stocked with food; and serving 10 people at a feeding ministry.  The order was submitted to ELCA on Dec. 8th.  The funds raised will be matched by ELCA through their end-of-year campaign.  Thank you to everyone who participates by bringing in aluminum cans for recycling.    ~Peggy Burnett

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). Please let us know by the end of November so we can order materials in early December. ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Thank You! to everyone who made the potlucks for the Congregational Meeting and Wednesday’s Advent Service so successful! Setup, takedown, and delicious dishes—you know who you are! We couldn’t do it without you. ~Deborah Ash

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Five Barrels Full: Since the call went out mid-October to fill both Storehouse barrels by Thanksgiving, they actually picked up five barrels of food for both people and pets at St. Paul. Thank you for your generosity! ~Deborah Ash

A Thank You to St. Paul:

Thank you for your generous gift of $500 to the Storehouse New Mexico FACE (Feeding Area Children Every Day) campaign in partnership with Sandia Federal Area Credit Union. Your support is deeply appreciated, especially during a time when the need in our community has reached unprecedented levels. On behalf of our team and the neighbors we serve, thank you for standing with us. Your kindness and compassion are a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together. We’re truly grateful to have you as a part of our community. Sincerely, Amy Lavender, VP Development & Danee Gallegos, Development Coordinator

From Local Partner Organizations

Next Sunday, December 21 at 2pm here at St. Paul: The New Mexico Brass Quintet. The Quintet will be playing quite a variety, from Mozart, Tchaikovsky, to jazz arrangements and music from Star Trek and Star Wars—plus the Grinch song for the little ones attending. The concert is free and open to the public. Hope to see you there! ~Jeffrey Piper, Director

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

This month RMS is praying for our Companion Synod in Madagascar: Gracious God, we give thanks for our companion partners in Madagascar — the Mahajanga Synod, the Antsiranana Synod, the Sambava Synod, the Sofia Synod, and Betela Seminary. Bless their ministry, strengthen their witness, and deepen our mutual partnership in the gospel. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

This week: Join ELCA AMMPARO for a teach-in about Immigration Activism. Stories about immigrants, refugees, borders, and deportation are in our news daily and impact our lives and communities in deeply personal ways. How can we take meaningful action in our communities? We will share some ideas. Join Women of the ELCA as they host a webinar with ELCA AMMPARO, Wednesday, December 17 at 6pm Central. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/wzA-gDjNRw6UgCMi8Li-Vw#/registration

Updates Beginning 7 December 2025

Today, 7 December is our Congregational Meeting & Potluck in Fellowship Hall after worship. The main dish will be provided; please bring a side dish or dessert to share. We will be voting on the 2026 budget. Please plan to attend. ~Pr. Koppel

For mid-week Advent worship & fellowship we’ll join with our partners of St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church (211 Jefferson St. NE, ABQ).  This Wednesday, 10 December we’ll meet at St. Paul at 6pm. On Thursday, 18 December we’ll meet at St. Timothy’s at 6pm. The evening will begin with a brief worship service using the Salt Project’s resource MAGNIFY: Mary’s Song and the Magnificent Women of Advent, and followed with a soup supper.  So please bring your favorite soup or bread to share.  A sign-up board is in the Welcome Center. ~In peace, hope, love & joy, Pr. Koppel & Worship & Music

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

God’s Work Our Hands: For our December project, we are collecting donations toward Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks on 1 January 2026. On your check to St. Paul, please put “FFF January” in the memo line. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Adopted Families Christmas Tree of Giving. Thank you, thank you, thank you.  All gifts have already been chosen from the tree. We are awed by the incredible generosity shown by this community, especially this year.
           Please return all gifts (labeled by name and number) by next Sunday, December 14th. ~Dana M, Paula E, Cheri P

From Calico Butterfly Preschool:

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul 

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). Please let us know by the end of November so we can order materials in early December. ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

This Friday & Saturday:

Dear St. Paul community,
As a thank you to the congregation Coro Lux would like to offer $5 off any ticket price for our upcoming holiday concert(s) titled "Go Out In Joy!" The concerts will take place in the sanctuary of St. Paul on Friday, December 12th at 7 pm and Saturday, December 13th at 4 pm. Both concerts are identical.
          The program will be a varied one, including the 50-voices of Coro Lux, the El Faro Youth Chorus, carol sing-alongs, selections from Handel's Messiah and readings of Christmas poetry.
          For more information, and to buy tickets, go here: https://abqcorolux.org and enter the code SPLC1225 to get $5 off any ticket.
          Thank you, as always, for your hospitality and we hope to see you there! ~Brad Ellingboe

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

View Bishop Meghan’s November message at: vimeo.com/1140984888

ELCA AMMPARO has been involved in a new coalition called Free Families which is specifically looking at focusing attention on the detention of families. Amid so many horrific accounts of violent and illegal activities against immigrants, we are working to be sure that people know that once again children and their parents are being incarcerated.
          Free Families has generated resources specifically geared to raising awareness around the incarceration of children and families with resources for vigils and protests, advocacy and worship. On Thursday, December 11, at 6pm MT, these resources and the need for this focus will be the focus of a national gathering where we are collecting faith leaders to be willing to be part of raising awareness that once again children and their primary caregivers are being held in detention. Here is a link to register: https://detentionwatchnetwork.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/detentionwatchnetwork/event.jsp?event=500&

Updates Beginning 30 November 2025

Today:  It's Advent again, and you may notice that the scripture readings for worship for the next few weeks will be heavily concerned about prophesy. And this raises perennial questions: What is prophecy? Who are the prophets? Was Jesus a prophet? Is there still prophesy today? Join the Adult Faith Development class this Advent as we explore prophecy and prophets. The conversation will be stimulating, and we may even come up with some surprising answers. The class meets after the Sunday service on Nov. 30, Dec 14, and Dec. 21 (no class on Dec. 7 because of the congregational meeting). Bring your questions and curiosity. We'll take all of them seriously. ~Bob Matthews, for the AFD Team

Starting this week: Advent is a contemplative season preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus, held in hopeful anticipation of his promised return.   Liturgically it is the four Sundays before Christmas, this year beginning today.  For these Sundays we’ll focus on SUMUD.  Firstly, it’s a single Arabic word that means steadfastness, resilience, enduring, and persevering through hardship and adversity.  Secondly, it’s our denomination’s response to occupation and injustice in Palestine and Israel.  Check out https://www.elca.org/our-work/publicly-engaged-church/sumud for more information.
For mid-week worship & fellowship we’ll join with our partners of St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church (211 Jefferson St. NE, ABQ).  On the 4th and 18th of December (Thursdays) at 6pm we’ll meet at St. Timothy’s.  On the 10th (Wednesday) also at 6pm we’ll meet at St. Paul.  The evening will begin with a brief worship service using the Salt Project’s resource MAGNIFY: Mary’s Song and the Magnificent Women of Advent, and followed with a soup supper.  So please bring your favorite soup or bread to share.  A sign-up board is in the Welcome Center. ~In peace, hope, love & joy, Pr. Koppel & Worship & Music

This week: First Tuesday is December 2nd at HOPS at 7222 4th Street, 4-6pm.  This is just a social time for anyone associated with St. Paul.  We had a great turnout last month so will meet again at the same place to catch up on the news and get to know each other a little better.  See you then! ~Nancy Matthews

Mark Your Calendars: Next Sunday, 7 December is our Congregational Meeting & Potluck in Fellowship Hall after worship. The main dish will be provided; please bring a side dish or dessert to share. We will be voting on the 2026 budget. Please plan to attend. ~Pr. Koppel

Donations for the Parouse Family. A few weeks ago I called your attention to the announcement about the pastor in Madagascar whose house burned down (see in RMS/ELCA section below). If you are planning to give, go to the RMS website and click on the  giving button...then select Seeds of Hope and put Pastor Parouse in the message part. We would like to send those donations soon. ~Terry Cole for the RMS Companion Synod committee. 

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

Adopted Families Tree of Giving. It’s time again to do our Christmas helping project for adopted families. The tree is up and ready for you to pick special items or gift cards for our families. Sign the sheet with name and phone # so we can easily keep track. The recommended gift card/gift price range is $25.
          Please return all gifts (wrapped and labeled with the tracking tag attached) by Sunday Dec. 14th. That is only 4 weeks…. We add household necessities—(soap, detergent, toilet paper ) to further make a difference.
          This year we carry out this project in memory of Kay Schoenefeld who developed and led this for years. Let us remember her and make her proud. ~Dana M, Paula E, Cheri P

Kitchen Renovation Countertop Selection. Please select your choice for the new countertop from those on the table in the Welcome Center. There are four choices from which to select-please vote only once. ~Jolene Gallegos

Free Glassware from Kitchen Supply Room. Thanks to Julie Ambrogi and Dana Mullen we cleared out the Kitchen Supply Room in Fellowship Hall.  There were some extra items that we have plenty of already. These are free to take In the Welcome Center. Any remaining items will go to secondhand stores or given to Adopted Families. ~Jolene Gallegos

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). Please let us know by the end of November so we can order materials in early December. ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. Pet food is also needed. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Proceeds from the Peter Mayer concert will benefit First U’s community programs to better the lives of our neighbors. Hope you can join us. The QR codes for the tiered ticket links are on the flyer, or you can go to First U’s Giving Page at www.tinyURL.com/2fmuh7p4.

Dear St. Paul community,
As a thank you to the congregation Coro Lux would like to offer $5 off any ticket price for our upcoming holiday concert(s) titled "Go Out In Joy!" The concerts will take place in the sanctuary of St. Paul on Friday, December 12th at 7 pm and Saturday, December 13th at 4 pm. Both concerts are identical.
          The program will be a varied one, including the 50-voices of Coro Lux, the El Faro Youth Chorus, carol sing-alongs, selections from Handel's Messiah and readings of Christmas poetry.
          For more information, and to buy tickets, go here: https://abqcorolux.org and enter the code SPLC1225 to get $5 off any ticket.
          Thank you, as always, for your hospitality and we hope to see you there! ~Brad Ellingboe 

New Mexico Women’s Global Pathways and its fiscal sponsor the Immigrant and Refugee Resource Village of Albuquerque needs support to continue to provide services for at very high risk families receiving skills training at the Ubuntu Village in a safe environment. The village serves immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, unhoused people street dwellers and at very high risk locals including the unhoused. To learn more and contribute: www.irrva.org.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From ELCA AMMPARO: Faithful Resistance: Fighting the Sin of Dehumanization.
They are hard to miss. “Invasion“, “Animals“, “Illegals” … We hear these words all the time, whether on the news or in the comment section, used to describe migrants and other marginalized groups.
          These words are used for a reason. They are designed to make us afraid, to make us numb, and to make us see a “problem” instead of a person. They build walls between “us” and “them.”
          As people of faith, we have to be honest: this isn’t just a political debate. It’s a spiritual one. The way we talk about and treat the marginalized is a gut-check for our faith. When we see people being systematically dehumanized, we are called to do more than just feel bad. We are called to resist.
Read the full blog post by Raed AbuJries, Program Manager, AMMPARO US Network, Education and Communications at:
https://blogs.elca.org/ammparo/faithful-resistance-fighting-the-sin-of-dehumanization/

Go to www.rmselca.org, scroll down to the lower right corner to the “Give” button, then select Seeds of Hope Fund from the dropdown menu.

Advent Resources:

ELCA World Hunger: Advent 2025-A Stable Lamp is Lighted. Calendar and study guide. https://www.elca.org/our-work/relief-and-development/elca-world-hunger/wh-advent

Lutheran Summer Music Academy

Join us each day this Advent, from November 30 to December 24, for a musical meditation. Selections will be shared on LSM’s Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages and archived at LSMacademy.org/acal.

Luther Seminary: Use this link to get your free Advent Devotional: https://www.luthersem.edu/resources/advent-devotional-2025/

Updates Beginning 23 November 2025

Today:  Immediately following worship, please return to the Sanctuary for our informational meeting on the proposed 2026 SPLC and Calico budgets. Please bring your refreshments along. Copies of the budgets will be available. We look forward to seeing you there. ~The Finance Team

Mark Your Calendars: Sunday, 7 December is our Congregational Meeting & Potluck in Fellowship Hall. The main dish will be provided. We will be voting on the 2026 budgets. Please plan to attend. ~Pr. Koppel

Advent is a contemplative season preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus, held in hopeful anticipation of his promised return.   Liturgically it is the four Sundays before Christmas, this year beginning on 30 November.  For these Sundays we’ll focus on SUMUD.  Firstly, it’s a single Arabic word that means steadfastness, resilience, enduring, and persevering through hardship and adversity.  Secondly, it’s our denomination’s response to occupation and injustice in Palestine and Israel.  Check out https://www.elca.org/our-work/publicly-engaged-church/sumud for more information.
For mid-week worship & fellowship we’ll join with our partners of St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church (211 Jefferson St. NE, ABQ).  On the 4th and 18th of December (Thursdays) at 6pm we’ll meet at St. Timothy’s.  On the 10th (Wednesday) also at 6pm we’ll meet at St. Paul.  The evening will begin with a brief worship service using the Salt Project’s resource MAGNIFY: Mary’s Song and the Magnificent Women of Advent, and followed with a soup supper.  So please bring your favorite soup or bread to share.  A sign-up board is in the Welcome Center. ~In peace, hope, love & joy, Pr. Koppel & Worship & Music

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

Adopted Families Tree of Giving. It’s time again to do our Christmas helping project for adopted families. The tree is up and ready for you to pick special items or gift cards for our families. Sign the sheet with name and phone # so we can easily keep track. The recommended gift card/gift price range is $25.
          Please return all gifts (wrapped and labeled with the tracking tag attached) by Sunday Dec. 14th. That is only 4 weeks…. We add household necessities—(soap, detergent, toilet paper ) to further make a difference.
          This year we carry out this project in memory of Kay Schoenefeld who developed and led this for years. Let us remember her and make her proud. ~Dana M, Paula E, Cheri P

First Tuesday is December 2nd at HOPS at 7222 4th Street, 4-6pm.  This is just a social time for anyone associated with St. Paul.  We had a great turnout last month so will meet again at the same place to catch up on the news and get to know each other a little better.  See you then! ~Nancy Matthews

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). Please let us know by the end of November so we can order materials in early December. ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Thank you to all the folks that helped clean up the Church Campus on Saturday 15 November. We pulled weeds, picked up trash and worked on raking leaves that had fallen on the north and east sides of the church. So much trash and weeds that we filled up the trash receptacle. A great group of volunteers! We appreciate you: Jan Bowers, Peggy Burnett, Michael Chochol, Teresa Dubuque, Jim Graff, Casey Jelsema, Dave Kelly, Dana Mullen, and Matt Pettersen. ~Jolene Gallegos

Food for those in need: Can you believe 25% of our population needs food?  When you shop, pick up some extra cans or dry goods and put them in the Storehouse barrels when you enter the sanctuary. There is no better way to thank God for all we have been given. ~Nancy Matthews

Thank you to all who supported Luther House/Open Table’s Friendsgiving on Thursday! There were some 25 in attendance. Pastor Rhonda wrote: I’m so pleased at how it all went! Thank you so much for all the organizing, cooking, participating, advocating, and support! We brought 14 sides and desserts, thanks to: Jan, Kristi, Mandy, Molly, Peggy, Sharon and Teresa. A wonderful God’s Work Our Hands project for November! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

Next Sunday:

Proceeds from the Peter Mayer concert will benefit First U’s community programs to better the lives of our neighbors. Hope you can join us. The QR codes for the tiered ticket links are on the flyer, or you can go to First U’s Giving Page at www.tinyURL.com/2fmuh7p4.

Dear St. Paul community,
As a thank you to the congregation Coro Lux would like to offer $5 off any ticket price for our upcoming holiday concert(s) titled "Go Out In Joy!" The concerts will take place in the sanctuary of St. Paul on Friday, December 12th at 7 pm and Saturday, December 13th at 4 pm. Both concerts are identical.
          The program will be a varied one, including the 50-voices of Coro Lux, the El Faro Youth Chorus, carol sing-alongs, selections from Handel's Messiah and readings of Christmas poetry.
          For more information, and to buy tickets, go here: https://abqcorolux.org and enter the code SPLC1225 to get $5 off any ticket.
          Thank you, as always, for your hospitality and we hope to see you there! ~Brad Ellingboe

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Sumud. As RMS Sumud continues to further our purpose, which is to respond to occupation and injustice in Palestine and Israel through accompaniment, advocacy and awareness-raising with our partners in the Holy Land and in the ELCA, we offer the following:

Participate in RMS Sumud: To attend an upcoming RMS Sumud planning session this Tuesday, Nov. 25 at 1 p.m. MDT, simply join us at: 
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4943729991?pwd=QStqR0VsRWJ5UGwzUlUycGQ5K29RZz09#success
***Please note that this one requires a passcode, which is Lutheran.
     Questions? Please call or text Rebecca Aardahl at (701) 527-4342.

From ELCA AMMPARO: Faithful Resistance: Fighting the Sin of Dehumanization.
They are hard to miss. “Invasion“, “Animals“, “Illegals” … We hear these words all the time, whether on the news or in the comment section, used to describe migrants and other marginalized groups.
          These words are used for a reason. They are designed to make us afraid, to make us numb, and to make us see a “problem” instead of a person. They build walls between “us” and “them.”
          As people of faith, we have to be honest: this isn’t just a political debate. It’s a spiritual one. The way we talk about and treat the marginalized is a gut-check for our faith. When we see people being systematically dehumanized, we are called to do more than just feel bad. We are called to resist.
Read the full blog post by Raed AbuJries, Program Manager, AMMPARO US Network, Education and Communications at:
https://blogs.elca.org/ammparo/faithful-resistance-fighting-the-sin-of-dehumanization/

Go to www.rmselca.org, scroll down to the lower right corner to the “Give” button, then select Seeds of Hope Fund from the dropdown menu.

Updates Beginning 16 November 2025

Today's Adult Faith Development is on Gaza. After the service, join iusti remer-thamert in conversation about the current situation in Gaza. There has been much speculation whether the current ceasefire will hold and whether the other phases of its implementation will move ahead. What are the ceasefire's implications on the West Bank which continues to be a site of increasing land theft and settler violence? iusti is in no way an expert but has been following the situation in Gaza and the West Bank and will update with what they know. Your own knowledge and analysis is equally appreciated. ~The AFD Team

Today: Kitchen Mini-Makeover.  We have been working on an estimate to do a Mini-Makeover in the Fellowship Hall Kitchen.  Initially we thought "just replace the counters".  But one thing has led to another!  Please, if you are interested in this project, grab your refreshments right after worship today and return to the Sanctuary.  Learn about the plan, the 3 estimates (with different cabinet options), and plan for funding.   Consider too giving a special gift towards this project.  See you soon!  ~Jolene Gallegos & Pr. Koppel

November’s God’s Work Our Hands project: helping with Luther House/ Open Table’s Friendsgiving event this Thursday, November 20th, 5-7:30pm. Please see the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to provide sides or desserts (perhaps your special green bean casserole??). Please drop off your food item by 4:30 that day; hot dishes should come ready to serve. We will transport them to Luther House. They anticipate needing 30 servings and are providing the turkey.
And a big “Thank You!” to our office volunteers (Sharon Hamilton, Nancy Jenkins and Molly Kraft) who helped provide Thursday’s Open Table meal at Luther House! ~Deborah Ash

Advent is a contemplative season preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus, held in hopeful anticipation of his promised return.   Liturgically it is the four Sundays before Christmas, this year beginning on 30 November.  For these Sundays we’ll focus on SUMUD.  Firstly, it’s a single Arabic word that means steadfastness, resilience, enduring, and persevering through hardship and adversity.  Secondly, it’s our denomination’s response to occupation and injustice in Palestine and Israel.  Check out https://www.elca.org/our-work/publicly-engaged-church/sumud for more information.
For mid-week worship & fellowship we’ll join with our partners of St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church (211 Jefferson St. NE, ABQ).  On the 4th and 18th (Thursdays) at 6pm we’ll meet at St. Timothy’s.  On the 10th (Wednesday) also at 6pm we’ll meet at St. Paul.  The evening will begin with a brief worship service using the Salt Project’s resource MAGNIFY: Mary’s Song and the Magnificent Women of Advent, and followed with a soup supper.  So please bring your favorite soup or bread to share.  A sign-up board is in the Welcome Center. ~In peace, hope, love & joy, Pr. Koppel and the Worship & Music Team

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

Adopted Families Tree of Giving. It’s time again to do our Christmas helping project for adopted families. The tree is up and ready for you to pick special items or gift cards for our families. Sign the sheet with name and phone # so we can easily keep track. The recommended gift card/gift price range is $25.
          Please return all gifts (wrapped and labeled with the tracking tag attached) by Sunday Dec. 14th. That is only 4 weeks…. We add household necessities—(soap, detergent, toilet paper ) to further make a difference.
          This year we carry out this project in memory of Kay Schoenefeld who developed and led this for years. Let us remember her and make her proud. ~Dana M, Paula E, Cheri P

Kitchen Storage Cleanup. Dana Mullen, Julie Ambrogi and Jolene Gallegos assisted in cleaning out the Kitchen Supply Room in Friendship Hall.  It is currently being cleaned out due to need for multi-use space.  Items to consider to take, or if you have stake in any items that have been stored for years include: dishware, reception plates, punch bowls, cake platters, glass cups. Our intention is save the quantity necessary for use and re-home / donate excess items not being used. Please contact Jolene by November 20th. ~Respectfully, The Clean up Crew

Fellowship Hall Closets. Items from the far southwest corner kitchen supply closet will be moved to the closet near the Kitchen, as that room has mostly cleared out.  Calico Butterfly School is running out of storage space downstairs for Pre-K training supplies and various miscellaneous items and will be utilizing the southwest closet for storage.
          Again, If you are looking for toilet paper, soap, paper towels, cleaning items, as well as the portable PA system, please know that these will be now stored in the Kitchen Supplies room next to the kitchen by November 20th. ~Thank you, Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

New Bible Study on the Book of Matthew Begins in January. Interested in learning more about the book of Matthew? Join other members of St. Paul and Pastor Kristi Koppel, who will lead a new hybrid Bible Study (available both via ZOOM and in person at St. Paul) based on the Books of Faith series by Augsburg Fortress Publishers. Bible Study participants will receive study guides.

When: 1:30 pm every Thursday from January 8 through February 26
Where: Online via ZOOM or in person at St. Paul 

If you are interested in this Bible Study, please email or call the St. Paul office (info@stpaulabq.org or 505 242-5942) or email or message Sally Trigg (sallydtrigg@gmail.com or 575 613-3722). Please let us know by the end of November so we can order materials in early December. ~ Thanks, Sally Trigg

Would it be possible to fill both barrels before Thanksgiving?? There are two barrels belonging to The Storehouse waiting to be filled with food items for those who need help with shopping. Thanksgiving is coming and many folks will not have enough food for the day, much less for a celebration. We have more than we need. Why don't we fill those barrels with canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, canned soups - anything that is shelf safe? Don't forget a treat or two! Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Prayer Shawls. Thank you to everyone who has been helping to fill up our prayer shawl basket! Shawls will be blessed in December. ~Sharon Hamilton

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.
          St. Paul is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.
          Thank you for all you do for St. Paul and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text)

From Local Partner Organizations

Tomorrow:

For more information, contact Ivan Westergaard, 505-903-2351, or Mary Graves, 651-894-2743.

This Thursday:

Next Sunday:

Dear St. Paul community,
As a thank you to the congregation Coro Lux would like to offer $5 off any ticket price for our upcoming holiday concert(s) titled "Go Out In Joy!" The concerts will take place in the sanctuary of St. Paul on Friday, December 12th at 7 pm and Saturday, December 13th at 4 pm. Both concerts are identical.
          The program will be a varied one, including the 50-voices of Coro Lux, the El Faro Youth Chorus, carol sing-alongs, selections from Handel's Messiah and readings of Christmas poetry.
          For more information, and to buy tickets, go here: https://abqcorolux.org and enter the code SPLC1225 to get $5 off any ticket.
          Thank you, as always, for your hospitality and we hope to see you there! ~Brad Ellingboe

Proceeds from the concert will benefit First U’s community programs to better the lives of our neighbors. Hope you can join us, and share this invitation with your congregations. The QR codes for the tiered ticket links are on the flyer, or you can go to First U’s Giving Page at www.tinyURL.com/2fmuh7p4.

Time To Order Your Luminarias! Every season since 1981, Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program students and families fold, assemble, and sell thousands of dozens of luminarias across the Albuquerque metro area. Proceeds support AYSP's symphonic music education programs in our vibrant community that serve approximately 450 students annually in grades 4-12 from the Bernalillo, Sandoval, Torrance, and Valencia Counties. They are priced at $12 per dozen.
          Order your luminarias online by November 22 for delivery to your home or business on December 6 (minimum order for delivery is 4 dozen). You may purchase fewer than 4 dozen and simply pick them up on December 13 at the AYSP building. Either way, you may place your order online at: www.aysmusic.org/luminarias/. If you would rather place your order by phone, you may call the AYSP office during business hours at (505) 875-1319.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Go to www.rmselca.org, scroll down to the lower right corner to the “Give” button, then select Seeds of Hope Fund from the dropdown menu.

RMS Sumud. As RMS Sumud continues to further our purpose, which is to respond to occupation and injustice in Palestine and Israel through accompaniment, advocacy and awaren ess-raising with our partners in the Holy Land and in the ELCA, we offer these special opportunities:

• Participate in RMS Sumud: To attend an upcoming RMS Sumud planning session on Tuesday, Nov. 25 at 1 p.m. MDT, simply join us at: 
  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4943729991?pwd=QStqR0VsRWJ5UGwzUlUycGQ5K29RZz09#success
  ***Please note that this one requires a passcode, which is Lutheran.
  Questions? Please call or text Rebecca Aardahl at (701) 527-4342.

• Weekly Advent Devotions from our ELCJHL Siblings. Open this weekly Advent gift of devotion and prayer as Lutheran siblings from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL) lead us in meditation and prayer. All of the sessions are available here with accompanying discussion questions for your congregation's consideration, for your family's time of devotion or for your own personal prayer life. https://resources.elca.org/sumud/advent-devotional/

Youth musicians are invited to LSM 2026 at St. Olaf College! Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival (LSM) is the nation’s premier faith-based music academy for high school students. Young musicians come together from all over the country to immerse themselves in joyful music-making and build a supportive and welcoming community, living together on a college campus. During the day, students receive advanced musical instruction through large ensembles (Festival Choir, Band and Orchestra), chamber music, private lessons, and elective classes (such as conducting, composition, church music, jazz band, musical theatre, handbells). In the evenings, students attend recitals, Evening Prayer services, and social events with their friends. LSM 2026 takes place June 21-July 19 (Full Session) or June 21-July 3 (Half Session) and is open to students who have completed grades 8-12. Priority Enrollment is offered now through December 1 with a $50 discount. Standard Enrollment is offered through March 1. General financial aid options are available. Program Info: LSMacademy.org/program

From AMMPARO:
Refugee Resettlement Action Alert: https://act.elca.org/page/88334/action/1?chain
Sign up for daily or weekly updates on immigration policy from:
National Immigration Forum: https://forumtogether.org/article/stay-informed/ and Church World Service: https://churchworldservices.quorum.us/CWSStateofPlay/

This Week: AMMPARO Immigrant Accompaniment 1-Hour Webinar. Thursday November 20, 11:00 a.m. Join immigration attorney, Cathy Brown, for a webinar to learn more about US Immigration. Better your understanding of how immigration laws are supposed to function and how they are currently being misused. Cathy is an experienced immigration attorney located in Colorado whose practice focus on family, citizenship, and asylum. https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/c3f5a93567304f368b0f71702f5ba1f8 

This Week: Bread for the World West, Southwest, and Midwest Combined Regional Online Meetings, Hosted by David Gist, Ken Fujimoto, and Nicole Schmidt. November 18 at 7:00 p.m. EST or November 19 at 2:00 p.m. EST. Join Bread for the World staff and advocates in your area in a few weeks for our fall regional online meetings. Now more than ever, we need to come together for encouragement, updates, timely action steps, and planning for the next year!
          As we have pressed on through this turbulent year, we will continue to be a faithful witness, calling on our members of Congress—and ourselves—to love our neighbors and to pursue an end to hunger. Will you join us?
          Register at: https://www.bread.org/event/2025-fall-regional-online-meetings/

This Week: Lutherans Restoring Creation’s November Connections Call. Calling Conscientious Consumers, November 18th, 6pm MT. As we enter the season of gratitude… and are relentlessly beckoned by the marketplace; let us consider the opportunities we have to be conscientious consumers and re-imagine an economy with equity at the center. Learn about global food systems and alternatives to the corporate supply chain from Equal Exchange and join friends from our ELCA World Hunger Ministries in conversation and collaboration. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/eR7Hp-LdSwCJ_YIcFrKs0A#/registration

Updates Beginning 9 November 2025

For Adult Faith Development Today, I invite you to join me for some post-sabbatical ponderings!  The conversation will center on the question (asked of us the Sunday I returned) "What would it look like to do more ministry together?".  More specifically, thinking about the 8 ELCA congregations in ABQ, our staffing and building resources!  We'll get started ASAP after worship and wrap-up by 12:25pm, so grab refreshments on your way to the Conference Room.   ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

Property Fall Clean Up Scheduled for 11/15/25, Saturday from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. There are lots of falling leaves, then weeds that have overgrown with a hot summer, then rainy end of summer.  We'd love to have your help outside only to clean up the surrounding property.  We need about 8-10 Volunteers to show up.  Please reach out to me after services if you are willing to assist.  We will have pizza and sodas available after our hard work in Friendship Corner.

What to bring:  Rakes, brooms, gloves, shovels

Focus areas for Clean Up:

• Leaf clean up

• Pull weeds

• Pick up trash

• Sweep areas around the parking lot close to curbs, rocks, sticks and other debris

• Any light trimming

• Clean debris off drainage grate on east side of entry driveway

We appreciate your assistance and hope you can join us. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

A Big Thank You! to the volunteers who gathered at the church on October 25th to help assemble the new Coffee Hutch. We worked for a good five hours putting it together.  Everyone is so appreciated for helping!  Here's a call out to the volunteers: Omar & Penny Durant, Nancy Jenkins, Matt Pettersen, and Michael Chochol. ~Jolene Gallegos

Thank You to the Visual Choir! Thank you to the entire team for all their hard work decorating the Sanctuary, creating the ofrenda, and making All Saints Sunday so meaningful for all here at St. Paul. ~Deborah Ash

Prayer Shawls. Thank you to everyone who has been helping to fill up our prayer shawl basket! Shawls will be blessed in December. ~Sharon Hamilton

Kitchen Storage Cleanup. Dana Mullen, Julie Ambrogi and Jolene Gallegos assisted in cleaning out the Kitchen Supply Room in Friendship Hall.  It is currently being cleaned out due to need for multi-use space.  Items to consider to take, or if you have stake in any items that have been stored for years include: Dishware, reception plates, punch bowls, Cake platters, glass cups.
The popcorn machine is being donated to On Conditional Love, an organization helping individuals dealing with addiction. They hold movie nights two nights a week so this is a perfect new home!
Our intention is save the quantity necessary for use and re-home / donate excess items not being used.
If you have a stake in any of these items, please contact Jolene by November 20th. ~Respectfully, The Clean up Crew

November’s God’s Work Our Hands project: helping with Luther House/ Open Table’s Friendsgiving event on Thursday, November 20th, 5-7:30pm. Please see the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to provide sides or desserts (perhaps your special green bean casserole??). Please drop off your food item by 4:30 that day; hot dishes should come ready to serve. We will transport them to Luther House. They anticipate needing 30 servings and are providing the turkey.
A big Thank You! to everyone who generously donated senior supplies to Adopted Families through our October God’s Work Our Hands project. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

Food Resources. Abbey Reed, Director of Neighboring at Central United Methodist Church, has compiled lists of food resources in our community in light of the SNAP funding issue. Please see the board on the north side of the Welcome Center; copies are also available on the desk. The list was updated this past week, so you may wish to have the new copy. ~Deborah Ash

Would it be possible to fill both barrels before Thanksgiving?? There are two barrels belonging to The Storehouse waiting to be filled with food items for those who need help with shopping. Thanksgiving is coming and many folks will not have enough food for the day, much less for a celebration. We have more than we need. Why don't we fill those barrels with canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, canned soups - anything that is shelf safe? Don't forget a treat or two! Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.
          St. Paul is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.
Thank you for all you do for St. Paul and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text)

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Join Rio Grande Food Project (RGFP) and US Eagle FCU's ARNIA Foundation for a night of fun and laughter to benefit 4 local nonprofits including RGFP! Tickets at: www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/comedy-night-fundraiser-3

Time To Order Your Luminarias! Every season since 1981, Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program students and families fold, assemble, and sell thousands of dozens of luminarias across the Albuquerque metro area. Proceeds support AYSP's symphonic music education programs in our vibrant community that serve approximately 450 students annually in grades 4-12 from the Bernalillo, Sandoval, Torrance, and Valencia Counties.
          AYSP luminarias are traditionally constructed with high-quality materials, with a double-fold on the top of each bag and long-burning votive candles. They come fully assembled on sturdy cardboard flats and ready to put out on your lawn or driveway. They are priced at $12 per dozen.
          Order your luminarias online by November 22 for delivery to your home or business on December 6 (minimum order for delivery is 4 dozen). You may purchase fewer than 4 dozen and simply pick them up on December 13 at the AYSP building. Either way, you may place your order online at: www.aysmusic.org/luminarias/. If you would rather place your order by phone, you may call the AYSP office during business hours at (505) 875-1319.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Go to www.rmselca.org, scroll down to the lower right corner to the “Give” button, then select Seeds of Hope Fund from the dropdown menu.

Bishop Meghan’s All Saints Sunday Message from the Border Immersion Program is at: https://vimeo.com/1133871738.

This Saturday:

November is Native American Heritage Month. ELCA Racial Justice Ministries seeks to lift up the voices and work of our Indigenous siblings. Visit the ELCA website to learn about the many opportunities to learn, raise awareness and engage in other ways to impact hearts and lives across this church:
https://www.elca.org/our-work/congregations-and-synods/ministries-of-diverse-cultures-and-communities/indigenous-ministries-and-tribal-relations

This Week: AMMPARO Immigrant Accompaniment 1-Hour Webinars.
Wednesday November 12, 7:00 p.m., Thursday November 20, 11:00 a.m.
Join immigration attorney, Cathy Brown, for a webinar to learn more about US Immigration. Better your understanding of how immigration laws are supposed to function and how they are currently being misused. Cathy is an experienced immigration attorney located in Lafayette, Colorado whose practice focus on family, citizenship, and asylum. 
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/c3f5a93567304f368b0f71702f5ba1f8

Bread for the World: West, Southwest, and Midwest Combined Regional Online Meetings, Hosted by David Gist, Ken Fujimoto, and Nicole Schmidt.

• Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. EST (4:00 p.m. PST)

• Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. EST (11:00 a.m. PST)

Join Bread for the World staff and advocates in your area in a few weeks for our fall regional online meetings. Now more than ever, we need to come together for encouragement, updates, timely action steps, and planning for the next year!
          As we have pressed on through this turbulent year, we will continue to be a faithful witness, calling on our members of Congress—and ourselves—to love our neighbors and to pursue an end to hunger. Will you join us?
          Register at: https://www.bread.org/event/2025-fall-regional-online-meetings/

 Global Refuge Weekly: A Sad Day for Refugee Resettlement. The Trump Administration has formally announced a refugee admissions ceiling of just 7,500 people for Fiscal Year 2026 — the lowest in U.S. history — while primarily using those limited slots for Afrikaners from South Africa.
Global Refuge continues to express serious concerns that the new framework represents a serious break from policy guided by humanitarian need, as opposed to identity. As countless international crises continue to persist, concentrating the vast majority of admissions on one group severely undermines the program’s purpose and credibility. Simultaneously, federal support has been significantly diminished for new Americans. Cash and medical assistance has been limited, and Congress recently restricted access to key programs like SNAP and Medicaid—ending decades of guaranteed access to food and health coverage for lawfully-admitted refugees.
The FY26 ceiling draws away from the United States' longstanding role as a global humanitarian leader, and violates both the spirit of the Refugee Act of 1980 and the ancient moral calling shared across religious traditions to welcome the stranger and protect those fleeing persecution.
          Read the press release at: https://www.globalrefuge.org/press-room/

Updates Beginning 2 November 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: Today's Adult Forum will be on the Council of Nicea which met in A.D. 325, 1700 years ago this year.  We will consider the theological issues which led to the Council, the Nicene Creed which emerged from the event, and  the Council of Constantinople in A.D. 381 which expanded the Creed.  ~Hal Nilsson, for the AFD Team

This week: First Tuesday heads north!  Tuesday, November 4th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm, we'll meet at Hops Brewery & Restaurant, 7222 4th Street NW.  It is on the east side of the street and set way back from the street, so look for the sign.  Good food, good drink, but if you just want your snack, bring it along.  Lots of parking in front and also outside seating for when the weather is fine.  Let's try it out.  For those who don't know, this is just a social time, to catch up on the news and an opportunity to get to know each other better.  See you then!~Nancy Matthews

Property Fall Clean Up Scheduled for 11/15/25, Saturday from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. There are lots of falling leaves, then weeds that have overgrown with a hot summer, then rainy end of summer.  We'd love to have your help outside only to clean up the surrounding property.  We need about 8-10 Volunteers to show up.  Please reach out to me after services if you are willing to assist.  We will have pizza and sodas available after our hard work in Friendship Corner.

What to bring:  Rakes, brooms, gloves, shovels

Focus areas for Clean Up:

• Leaf clean up

• Pull weeds

• Pick up trash

• Sweep areas around the parking lot close to curbs, rocks, sticks and other debris

• Any light trimming

• Clean debris off drainage grate on east side of entry driveway

We appreciate your assistance and hope you can join us. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

Prayer Shawls. Thank you to everyone who has been helping to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

November’s God’s Work Our Hands project: helping with Luther House/ Open Table’s Friendsgiving event on Thursday, November 20th, 5-7:30pm. Please see the signup sheet in the Welcome Center to provide sides or desserts (perhaps your special green bean casserole??). Please drop off your food item by 4:30 that day; hot dishes should come ready to serve. We will transport them to Luther House. They anticipate needing 30 servings and are providing the turkey. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Christmas Cards for our Homebound. In the weeks to come we will have several enlarged Christmas Cards in the Welcome Center for every congregation member to sign. These cards will go to our HOMEBOUND. A holiday greeting from folks known and unknown will be such a treat to the few homebound we have to honor. The picture of the sanctuary will bring them closer to the season with memories dear to each one. Please, even if you do not recognize or know the person the card is for, take a moment in the next few weeks to write a warm holiday greeting. The cards will be delivered by our Visitation Ministers in December when visits are scheduled. Thank you for your participation. ~Pr. Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, Diane Remer-Thamert, Teresa Dubuque, Nancy Jenkins, Kay Fulton, Herb Korff.

Adopted Families: Because of your contributions to Adopted Families, we were able to help a young man who showed up at the church office door this week. He was cold from spending the night on the street and wanting to find a way to get back to his home in a small town in Nebraska. He spoke with Pastor and was offered a hot cup of tea and time to get warm. After hearing his story, the office reached out to Adopted Families about funds for a bus ticket. For a little more than $100, this young man got a bus ticket in hand and a handmade quilt from our St. Paul quilters. He was grateful that someone listened to his plea and made it possible for him to return to safety in his hometown with family. ~Paula Eglinton

Food Resources. Abbey Reed, Director of Neighboring at Central United Methodist Church, has compiled lists of food resources in our community in light of the SNAP funding issue. Please see the board on the north side of the Welcome Center; copies are also available on the desk. ~Deborah Ash

Storehouse sends thanks! Two full barrels, including pet food, were picked up this week. The driver said giving is up 60% this week alone in light of the SNAP funding issue. When you read the following message, perhaps we could find a way to fill both barrels twice more before Thanksgiving? Thank you for giving so generously to help our hungry neighbors! ~Deborah Ash

Would it be possible to fill both barrels before Thanksgiving?? There are two barrels belonging to The Storehouse waiting to be filled with food items for those who need help with shopping. Thanksgiving is coming and many folks will not have enough food for the day, much less for a celebration. We have more than we need. Why don't we fill those barrels with canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, canned soups - anything that is shelf safe? Don't forget a treat or two! Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.
          St. Paul is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.
Thank you for all you do for St. Paul and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text)

From Local Partner Organizations

This Friday: Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will meet for their Human Rights Day celebration on November 7th at Central United Methodist Church, 201 University Blvd. NE.  The theme is “Help Others at All Times.” The guest speaker will be Anna Trillo, Director of Community Engagement, at the Immigrant Law Center.  They will also be the recipient of our CWU Human Rights Award.  Coffee fellowship will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the program beginning at 10:00.  A collection of feminine hygiene items for St. Timothy Lutheran’s "Period Cupboard" will be taken.  Come, and bring a friend!  For more information, contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-463-3657.

Save the Dates:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Meghan’s October Message is at: https://vimeo.com/1131570574.

Go to www.rmselca.org, scroll down to the lower right corner to the “Give” button, then select Seeds of Hope Fund from the dropdown menu.

This week: Bread for the World’s A Special Update on Our Work Together. Zoom on Wednesday, November 5, at 6:00 p.m. (ET). The call will be a candid conversation about our work together to end hunger. We’ll share updates with you on the impact of recent legislation and policy changes. Bread for the World’s new Vice President for Development, Vila-Sheree Watson will be introduced on the call. Vila-Sheree brings years of experience leading high-performing fundraising programs for faith-based, development nonprofits. Registration is free, but you must register ahead of time. When you register, you can also submit a question for the panel. https://www.bread.org/

Bread for the World: West, Southwest, and Midwest Combined Regional Online Meetings, Hosted by David Gist, Ken Fujimoto, and Nicole Schmidt.

Two options:

• Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. EST (4:00 p.m. PST)

• Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. EST (11:00 a.m. PST)

Join Bread for the World staff and advocates in your area in a few weeks for our fall regional online meetings. Now more than ever, we need to come together for encouragement, updates, timely action steps, and planning for the next year!
          As we have pressed on through this turbulent year, we will continue to be a faithful witness, calling on our members of Congress—and ourselves—to love our neighbors and to pursue an end to hunger. Will you join us?
          Register at: https://www.bread.org/event/2025-fall-regional-online-meetings/

Bread for the World’s Advent Devotional: Advent People in Uncertain Times. Copies are available in the Welcome Center or you can request the document via email to info@stpaulabq.org

AMMPARO Immigrant Accompaniment 1-Hour Webinars:

Wednesday November 12, 7:00 p.m., Thursday November 20, 11:00 a.m.

Join immigration attorney, Cathy Brown, for a webinar to learn more about US Immigration. Better your understanding of how immigration laws are supposed to function and how they are currently being misused. Cathy is an experienced immigration attorney located in Lafayette, Colorado whose practice focus on family, citizenship, and asylum. 
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/c3f5a93567304f368b0f71702f5ba1f8

Hurricane Melissa is a massive Category 5 storm, and many families in its path live in very fragile homes. High winds, heavy rains and flooding are especially devastating to those who already live in poor conditions.
Your gift today will reach families affected by Hurricane Melissa and other disasters with urgently needed food, water, shelter and essential supplies.
Our team is working quickly to assess the needs and prepare our emergency response. They are counting on your support so that families can get the help they need as quickly as possible.
Thank you for putting your faith into action to care for families affected by disasters around the world. You are an answer to prayer! https://lwr.org/

Updates Beginning 26 October 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: Come learn more about the history of the Reformation and Martin Luther. After the service, the Adult Faith Development Group will discuss the reasons for the Reformation, the beliefs and fates of early reformers, and the history and effect of Martin Luther. We will also take a quick look at next hundred years of Reformation and Counter Reformation events. We hope to see you there! ~Sally Trigg, for the AFD Team

The Hat Project wraps up today! If you are still working on hats for our Calico Butterfly donation project, please let me know ASAP via the Church Office so they can be included in the basket the first week of November. Thank you. ~Julie Ambrogi

Today is the deadline for Nov 2 Remembering the Saints photos. If you still wish to submit a photo, please be in touch with me ASAP at janobowers68@gmail.com so it can be included. Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Starting next Sunday we'll switch to ELW Setting 6.  It's been some time since we've used this setting.  So a bunch of us made some recordings to help all of us get reacquainted! These are posted on our home page in the Worship Section, https://www.stpaulabq.org/ or see the direct YouTube links below.  ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

setting 6, kyrie - https://youtu.be/0CohNq3Uxeg
setting 6, this is the feast - https://youtu.be/vmK0B5_4NyE
setting 6, gospel acclamation - https://youtu.be/GzitIpNBT0c
setting 6, holy, holy, holy - https://youtu.be/lT16It_sGFc
setting 6, lamb of God - https://youtu.be/90_BKipwys8

October’s God’s Work Our Hands project: collecting senior supplies for Adopted Families. We are collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. There is a bin in the Welcome Center, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

This Friday:

First Tuesday heads north!  Tuesday, November 4th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm, we'll meet at Hops Brewery & Restaurant, 7222 4th Street NW.  It is on the east side of the street and set way back from the street, so look for the sign.  Good food, good drink, but if you just want your snack, bring it along.  Lots of parking in front and also outside seating for when the weather is fine.  Let's try it out.  For those who don't know, this is just a social time, to catch up on the news and an opportunity to get to know each other better.  See you then!~Nancy Matthews

Prayer Shawls. Our basket is low! I am putting out a call for all prayer shawl makers. If you are able, we would appreciate it if you could get your knitting or crochet needles out and make some more prayer shawls. If you need yarn, we have lots in the sewing room. Check at the front desk for the key and take what you need to make a shawl or two. I am counting on all you talented people to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Would it be possible to fill both barrels before Thanksgiving?? There are two barrels belonging to The Storehouse waiting to be filled with food items for those who need help with shopping. Thanksgiving is coming and many folks will not have enough food for the day, much less for a celebration.  We have more than we need.  Why don't we fill those barrels with canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, canned soups - anything that is shelf safe?  Don't forget a treat or two!  Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.
St. Paul is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.
          Thank you for all you do for St. Paul and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text)

From Local Partner Organizations

Today, October 26, 2pm: ABQ Chamber Soloists Season Opener at St. Paul. There is a pre-concert talk starting at 1:15 in Fellowship Hall.

W.A. Mozart: Quintet in C Major for Strings, K.515
Tchaikovsky: Sextet for Strings, "Souvenir de Florence"

Tickets at the door or at: https://www.ticketleap.events/events/albuquerque-chamber-soloists

This Tuesday:

Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s group, will meet for their Human Rights Day celebration on Friday, November 7th at Central United Methodist Church, 201 University Blvd. NE.  The theme is “Help Others at All Times.”  The guest speaker will be Anna Trillo, Director of Community Engagement, at the Immigrant Law Center.  They will also be the recipient of our CWU Human Rights Award.  Coffee fellowship will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the program beginning at 10:00.  A collection of feminine hygiene items for St. Timothy Lutheran’s "Period Cupboard" will be taken.  Come, and bring a friend!  For more information, contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-463-3657.

Save the Dates:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

We have an outstanding line-up of guest speakers, including two legislators, Rep. Sarah Silva and Sen. Angel Charley, who will speak to seeking justice in our state's public policy. 
          In addition, please put on your calendars our 2026 Legislative Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon. We had to change our original date, and the event will now be held on Wednesday, February 4th.  In hopes of making the event accessible to even more participants (last year was our largest event since before the pandemic, with 140 joining us), we are moving the start time back one hour (9:30 instead of 8:30), and we will be working to expand opportunities to ride the Methodist bus and potentially carpool and van options from various congregations in Albuquerque. ~Kurt A. Rager, Director, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM

Bread for the World: A Special Update on Our Work Together. Zoom on Wednesday, November 5, at 6:00 p.m. (ET). The call will be a candid conversation about our work together to end hunger. We’ll share updates with you on the impact of recent legislation and policy changes. Bread for the World’s new Vice President for Development, Vila-Sheree Watson will be introduced on the call. Vila-Sheree brings years of experience leading high-performing fundraising programs for faith-based, development nonprofits.

Registration is free, but you must register ahead of time. When you register, you can also submit a question for the panel. https://www.bread.org/

Bread for the World: West, Southwest, and Midwest Combined Regional Online Meetings, Hosted by David Gist, Ken Fujimoto, and Nicole Schmidt.

Two options:

• Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. EST (4:00 p.m. PST)

• Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. EST (11:00 a.m. PST)

Join Bread for the World staff and advocates in your area in a few weeks for our fall regional online meetings. Now more than ever, we need to come together for encouragement, updates, timely action steps, and planning for the next year!

          As we have pressed on through this turbulent year, we will continue to be a faithful witness, calling on our members of Congress—and ourselves—to love our neighbors and to pursue an end to hunger. Will you join us?

          Register at: https://www.bread.org/event/2025-fall-regional-online-meetings/

Bread for the World’s Advent Devotional: Advent People in Uncertain Times. Copies are available in the Welcome Center or you can request the document via email to info@stpaulabq.org

AMMPARO Immigrant Accompaniment 1-Hour Webinars:
Wednesday November 12, 7:00 p.m., Thursday November 20, 11:00 a.m.

Join immigration attorney, Cathy Brown, for a webinar to learn more about US Immigration. Better your understanding of how immigration laws are supposed to function and how they are currently being misused. Cathy is an experienced immigration attorney located in Lafayette, Colorado whose practice focus on family, citizenship, and asylum. 
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/c3f5a93567304f368b0f71702f5ba1f8

Lutheran World Relief: Many of our blog posts going forward will include an option to “listen to this article.” Now you can listen in the car, on a walk or while you make dinner. lwr.org

Updates Beginning 19 October 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: Adult Faith Development wraps up its look at Flannery O’Connor, a vibrant and weird American author (who was also a fervent Christian). Her short stories deal with major themes of Christian life, such as grace, how God is revealed, and how a human life is redeemed. Sally Trigg, college literature instructor and project manager, will lead the discussions. Today we will discuss her story “Revelation.” Copies are available at the church office. Come join us in the St. Paul Conference Room after the service to explore the life and work of this fascinating American writer. For more information, email me at sallydtrigg@gmail.com. ~Sally Trigg, for the AFD Team

This Saturday, Oct 25th: New Coffee Hutch Assembly, 10am! The new coffee hutch has arrived here at the church, located in two boxes in my office. This will be replacing both tables in Friendship Corner, accommodating all coffee needs, mugs, condiments and coffee dispensers. We will need some folks who are good at reading directions and putting things together and a bit of muscle too. Bring some tools to make sure we have enough folks working on several parts. I don't anticipate this collective effort lasting more than an hour. Coffee and donuts will be served. Please contact me at the Office to reserve a spot for assembly.  I am assuming we could use about  three to four folks. With appreciation and enthusiasm! ~Jolene Gallegos

Hat Project wraps up next Sunday! If you have been working on hats for our Calico Butterfly donation project, please let me know. We would like to have all hats turned in by October 26. The hats will be divided into infants ( 20 hats needed), toddler (25 needed) and adults (17 needed ) for a total of at least 67 hats. We still have time, but we need to check our inventory. It would be lovely to have a basket of hats to deliver to Calico Butterfly the first week of November. Thank you. ~Julie Ambrogi

Next Sunday, October 26 is Reformation Sunday, and we are encouraged to wear red. Red is a bold color—and Martin Luther acted boldly. In 1517, he wrote the Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences, more commonly known as The 95 Theses.  As legend has it, he dramatically nailed it to the church door.  In essence circumventing an extremely rigid process whereby only including formally trained theologians, behind closed doors, to debate such issues.  Luther challenged this practice by publicly posting church issues, inviting lay people to enter the debate. 
In this document Luther listed all the ways he felt the church should be reformed.  For example indulgences were sold, which promised the remission of sins for money; the clergy lived in luxury while their congregations suffered in poverty; and people who were related to those in power obtained positions of authority whether qualified or not. In short, Luther objected to these malfeasances and urged the church to change.
Red has long been associated with the Holy Spirit at work in our church, as a reminder that the Holy Spirit continues to reform the church still today.  Thus, wearing red is a reminder that the fire of the Spirit, which burns in our hearts, inspires us to boldly confront the challenges that we now face. ~Karin Urbin, Worship and Music Team

Deadline is next Sunday for Nov 2 Remembering the Saints. The Visual Choir will once again be hanging our All Saints photo banners. Many of you have loved ones (Our Saints) represented on these memorial collages. They have proven to be very effective in remembering those who have gone before us!
For anyone who would like to add a photo of someone who has died this year, please bring or email your photo with all of the pertinent information. Your photos will be printed in black and white for the banners and will be displayed on our "Dia de los Muertos" ofrenda, in color or as you provide. You will have your photo returned to you unharmed.
There is a box in the Welcome Center for you to submit them (or hand them to me, Jo Browning, Karen Bunch, Kathy Callahan, Teresa Dubuque, Paul Gallegos, Shirley Nilsson, or Matt Pettersen) or email them to: janobowers68@gmail.com by Sunday, October 26. Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

October’s God’s Work Our Hands project: collecting senior supplies for Adopted Families. We are collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. There is a bin in the Welcome Center, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Would it be possible to fill both barrels before Thanksgiving?? There are two barrels belonging to The Storehouse waiting to be filled with food items for those who need help with shopping. Thanksgiving is coming and many folks will not have enough food for the day, much less for a celebration.  We have more than we need.  Why don't we fill those barrels with canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, canned soups - anything that is shelf safe?  Don't forget a treat or two!  Thanks! ~Nancy Matthews

Starting on All Saints Sunday (2 Nov) we'll switch to ELW Setting 6.  It's been some time since we've used this setting.  So a bunch of us made some recordings to help all of us get reacquainted! These are posted on our home page in the Worship Section, https://www.stpaulabq.org/ or see the direct YouTube links below.  ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

setting 6, kyrie - https://youtu.be/0CohNq3Uxeg
setting 6, this is the feast - https://youtu.be/vmK0B5_4NyE
setting 6, gospel acclamation - https://youtu.be/GzitIpNBT0c
setting 6, holy, holy, holy - https://youtu.be/lT16It_sGFc
setting 6, lamb of God - https://youtu.be/90_BKipwys8

First Tuesday heads north!  Tuesday, November 4th, 4:00 - 6:00 pm, we'll meet at Hops Brewery & Restaurant, 7222 4th Street NW.  It is on the east side of the street and set way back from the street, so look for the sign.  Good food, good drink, but if you just want your snack, bring it along.  Lots of parking in front and also outside seating for when the weather is fine.  Let's try it out.  For those who don't know, this is just a social time, to catch up on the news and an opportunity to get to know each other better.  See you then!~Nancy Matthew

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.
St. Paul is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.
          Thank you for all you do for St. Paul and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text)

Prayer Shawls. Our basket is low! I am putting out a call for all prayer shawl makers. If you are able, we would appreciate it if you could get your knitting or crochet needles out and make some more prayer shawls. If you need yarn, we have lots in the sewing room. Check at the front desk for the key and take what you need to make a shawl or two. I am counting on all you talented people to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel
 

From Local Partner Organizations

Next Sunday, October 26, 2pm: ABQ Chamber Soloists Season Opener at St. Paul. There is a pre-concert talk starting at 1:15 in Fellowship Hall.

W.A. Mozart: Quintet in C Major for Strings, K.515
Tchaikovsky: Sextet for Strings, "Souvenir de Florence"

Tickets at: https://www.ticketleap.events/events/albuquerque-chamber-soloists

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

ReconcilingWorks Oct - Dec 2025 Newsletter is posted in the Welcome Center. Read reflections on the installation of the ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry, updates to the ReconcilingWorks website, recent staff connections throughout the country, RIC Sunday 2026 information, and more.

This Tuesday, October 21st, 6pm MT: At the monthly Lutherans Restoring Creation Connections Call we will share our Season of Creation highlights with one another and offer a special virtual Blessing of the Animals! Pastors Carmen & Kaylie will guide us through a liturgy centered on our gratitude to the other-than-human creatures in our midst. We invite all to come. If you have a pet who would like to make an appearance (or just uplift a photo), each will be blessed (without fear of interspecies conflict!) The blessing is free (of course!) and if you can’t join us then, we invite you to send in your photo of your special creature connection to add to our bountiful gallery. https://lutheransrestoringcreation.org/fuzzy-fellowship/
Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/OPo9df3WRfuec1hN5r7r0w#/registration

From RMS AMMPARO: This Wednesday, October 22 at 10am MT join Acacia Witness for Justice for a conversation with former Immigration Judges Ilyce Shugall and Chloe Dillon, who will offer rare insight into the realities of immigration court, the urgent need for transparency, and why public observation plays a critical role in protecting due process and accountability.
          This webinar is presented by Acacia’s Witness for Justice court observation project and is open to anyone interested in shedding light on immigration court proceedings and hearing directly from those who once served on the bench. RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/WFJ-IJ-panel

AMMPARO Immigrant Accompaniment 1-Hour Webinars:
Wednesday November 12, 7:00 p.m., Thursday November 20, 11:00 a.m.
Join immigration attorney, Cathy Brown, for a webinar to learn more about US Immigration. Better your understanding of how immigration laws are supposed to function and how they are currently being misused. Cathy is an experienced immigration attorney located in Lafayette, Colorado whose practice focus on family, citizenship, and asylum. 
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/c3f5a93567304f368b0f71702f5ba1f8

We have an outstanding line-up of guest speakers, including two legislators, Rep. Sarah Silva and Sen. Angel Charley, who will speak to seeking justice in our state's public policy. 
          In addition, please put on your calendars our 2026 Legislative Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon. We had to change our original date, and the event will now be held on Wednesday, February 4th.  In hopes of making the event accessible to even more participants (last year was our largest event since before the pandemic, with 140 joining us), we are moving the start time back one hour (9:30 instead of 8:30), and we will be working to expand opportunities to ride the Methodist bus and potentially carpool and van options from various congregations in Albuquerque. ~Kurt A. Rager, Director, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM

From ELCA AMMPARO Migrant Ministry: Guide for Immigrant Parents. In partnership with the National Parents Union and Little Justice Leaders, the Children Thrive Action Network and fiercely passionate advocates have published “A Love Letter and Support Guide for Families Navigating Harmful Immigration Raids and Policies.” This guide was created for immigrant parents, and shaped by the insights and experiences of families impacted by immigration enforcement throughout the country. The guide highlights their experiences and offers advice, providing parents with mental health resources for themselves and their children. This love letter to immigrant parents invites parents to reflect on their own mental health, guides them through safety planning, and offers tips on how to talk to and support their children. Available in English and Spanish. https://childrenthriveaction.org/2025/10/staying-whole-a-love-letter-to-immigrant-parents/

This urgent response to emergencies is only possible because kind people like you share their blessings. A gift to our Emergency Response Campaign immediately goes to work to help deliver a nourishing meal, comforting quilt or clean water to a neighbor who lost everything. We never know when the next war, natural disaster or storm will hit. But we do know that when these tragic events occur, we need to be ready. You can help us be prepared to act! https://lwr.org/

Updates Beginning 12 October 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: Adult Faith Development continues to look at Flannery O’Connor, a vibrant and weird American author (who was also a fervent Christian). Her short stories deal with major themes of Christian life, such as grace, how God is revealed, and how a human life is redeemed. Sally Trigg, college literature instructor and project manager, will lead the discussions. On October 12, we will discuss her short story “A Good Man is Hard to Find,” and, on October 19, O’Connor’s story “Revelation.” Copies of these stories will be available at the church office. You can also request that they be emailed to you. Come join us in the St. Paul Conference Room after the service to explore the life and work of this fascinating American writer. For more information, email me at sallydtrigg@gmail.com. ~Sally Trigg, for the AFD Team

A Thank You! to everyone who helped make Carol Ann Sorensen's Celebration of Life so special on Thursday. We had many hands assisting, for which we are so grateful! ~Deborah Ash

October 26 is Reformation Sunday, and we are encouraged to wear red. Red is a bold color—and Martin Luther acted boldly. In 1517, he wrote the Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences, more commonly known as The 95 Theses.  As legend has it, he dramatically nailed it to the church door.  In essence circumventing an extremely rigid process whereby only including formally trained theologians, behind closed doors, to debate such issues.  Luther challenged this practice by publicly posting church issues, inviting lay people to enter the debate.

In this document Luther listed all the ways he felt the church should be reformed.  For example indulgences were sold, which promised the remission of sins for money; the clergy lived in luxury while their congregations suffered in poverty; and people who were related to those in power obtained positions of authority whether qualified or not. In short, Luther objected to these malfeasances and urged the church to change.

Red has long been associated with the Holy Spirit at work in our church, as a reminder that the Holy Spirit continues to reform the church still today.  Thus, wearing red is a reminder that the fire of the Spirit, which burns in our hearts, inspires us to boldly confront the challenges that we now face. ~Karin Urbin, Worship and Music Team

Remembering the Saints, November 2. All Saints will be upon us before we know it! The Visual Choir will once again be hanging our All Saints photo banners. Many of you have loved ones (Our Saints) represented on these memorial collages. They have proven to be very effective in remembering those who have gone before us!

For anyone who would like to add a photo of someone who has died this year, please bring or email your photo with all of the pertinent information. Your photos will be printed in black and white for the banners and will be displayed on our "Dia de los Muertos" ofrenda, in color or as you provide. You will have your photo returned to you unharmed.

There is a box in the Welcome Center for you to submit them (or hand them to me, Jo Browning, Karen Bunch, Kathy Callahan, Teresa Dubuque, Paul Gallegos, Shirley Nilsson, or Matt Pettersen) or email them to: janobowers68@gmail.com by Sunday, October 26. Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

October’s God’s Work Our Hands project: October’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting senior supplies for Adopted Families. We are collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. There is a bin in the Welcome Center, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Starting on All Saints Sunday (2 Nov) we'll switch to ELW Setting 6.  It's been some time since we've used this setting.  So a bunch of us made some recordings to help all of us get reacquainted! These are posted on our home page in the Worship Section, https://www.stpaulabq.org/ or see the direct YouTube links below.  ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

setting 6, kyrie - https://youtu.be/0CohNq3Uxeg
setting 6, this is the feast - https://youtu.be/vmK0B5_4NyE
setting 6, gospel acclamation - https://youtu.be/GzitIpNBT0c
setting 6, holy, holy, holy - https://youtu.be/lT16It_sGFc
setting 6, lamb of God - https://youtu.be/90_BKipwys8 

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.

St. Paul is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.

Thank you for all you do for St. Paul and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text)

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Prayer Shawls. Our basket is low! I am putting out a call for all prayer shawl makers. If you are able, we would appreciate it if you could get your knitting or crochet needles out and make some more prayer shawls. If you need yarn, we have lots in the sewing room. Check at the front desk for the key and take what you need to make a shawl or two. I am counting on all you talented people to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

$5 Discount for St. Paul Members on the website: use code SPLC25.

This Week:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Welcome Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry. When Yehiel Curry was installed as presiding bishop of the ELCA on Saturday, Elizabeth Eaton, the former presiding bishop, led the assembly in welcoming Curry. “Yehiel, bishop in the church of God, we have looked forward to your coming with great joy,” she exclaimed to a diverse, colorfully dressed and enthusiastic assembly at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.

“With all my heart,” Curry began before pausing emotionally. After Eaton went to his side and placed a hand on his arm, he continued. “I thank you for your welcome. I hope to serve among you in Christ’s name. And in the joy of the Spirit, may the peace of God be upon this house and this assembly.”

Read more at: https://www.livinglutheran.org/2025/10/answering-the-call/

New this year, we will have a satellite viewing location in Las Cruces at Peace Lutheran Church.  One of our featured speakers, Rep. Sarah Silva, will also speak from there.  Complete details are located at the registration site and on our website, LutheranAdvocacyNM.org.  

We have an outstanding line-up of guest speakers, including two legislators, Rep. Sarah Silva and Sen. Angel Charley, who will speak to seeking justice in our state's public policy. 

In addition, please put on your calendars our 2026 Legislative Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon. We had to change our original date, and the event will now be held on Wednesday, February 4th.  In hopes of making the event accessible to even more participants (last year was our largest event since before the pandemic, with 140 joining us), we are moving the start time back one hour (9:30 instead of 8:30), and we will be working to expand opportunities to ride the Methodist bus and potentially carpool and van options from various congregations in Albuquerque. ~Kurt A. Rager, Director, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM 

This Week: Rocky Mountain Synod (RMS) Sumud. Save the date for…Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine: Accompany. Advocate. Raise Awareness. October 16 @ 7:00-8:30 PM MDT. Register for this Zoom session at: https://rmselca.org/peace-not-walls

On July 30, 2025, the Churchwide Assembly of the ELCA passed the memorial, “Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine”. Join guests Ralston Deffenbaugh (Former Lutheran World Federation Asst. General Secretary for International Affairs and Human Rights), Maddi Froiland (ELCA Sumud), Rev. Gabi Aelabouni (ELCA Middle East and North Africa Desk) and RMS Sumud on zoom Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 7pm to learn more about this resolution and the doors it opens, an update on events in Palestine and Israel, ELCA resources for engagement, and how you can connect.

A link to the approved Memorial is found at: https://elcamediaresources.blob.core.windows.net/cdn/wp-content/uploads/toward_ending_occupation_of_palestine_SPR25_CA25-03-13.pdf

El Paso & Juarez Border Immersion. Join Bishop Meghan Aelabouni for a Rocky Mountain Synod El Paso & Juarez Immersion November 1–7, 2025. Registration deadline is October 15, or when capacity is reached.

Questions? Ask Pastor Diana Linden-Johnson, Synod Minister for Rostered Ministry (dlinden-johnson@rmselca.org) This immersion is led by AMMPARO Immigrant Accompaniment. Learn more at: https://www.rmselca.org/event/el-paso-juarez-border-immersion

From ELCA World Hunger: We are so pleased to share with you that "Intersections: Justice Ministry with ELCA Partners," our short documentary is live on YouTube. We hope you will enjoy the film and celebrate together our collective ministries to end poverty. You can view the full feature here: https://youtu.be/WNc0z6EJbvE?si=HxxQj195BEQl2Gxf

World Food Day is right around the corner! This special day is celebrated annually on October 16 to raise awareness for people struggling with hunger, wherever they may be, and encourages global collaboration in creating a peaceful, sustainable, and food-secure future.

This year’s World Food Day theme is “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.” At Bread, we wholeheartedly believe in this message. Hunger is not inevitable — that’s why it makes sense to advocate for good policy decisions that enable everyone to have access to food. https://www.bread.org/

Global Refuge’s October 2025 Advocacy Update: In this edition, we discuss recent developments in immigration policy, share insights on our advocacy efforts, and highlight key ways you can make an impact. 
https://mailchi.mp/25add2011e9c/our-new-advocacy-policy-newsletter-9322505?e=2f360c0226

You're invited to nominate students for Lutheran Summer Music 2026. St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN, June 21-July 19 (Full Session), June 21-July 3 (Half Session), Grades 8-12. LSM is the nation's premier faith-based music academy for high school students. Each year, young musicians come together from around the country to immerse themselves in musical excellence and build a supportive and fun community, sharing musical gifts in performance and in worship. https://www.lsmacademy.org/

Updates Beginning 5 October 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: On October 5, 12, and 19, Adult Faith Development will look at Flannery O’Connor, a vibrant and weird American author (who was also a fervent Christian). Her short stories deal with major themes of Christian life, such as grace, how God is revealed, and how a human life is redeemed. Sally Trigg, college literature instructor and project manager, will lead the discussions. On October 5, we will learn about O’Connor’s life and work. On October 12, we will discuss her short story “A Good Man is Hard to Find,” and, on October 19, O’Connor’s story “Revelation.” Copies of these stories will be available at the church office at the October 5 session. You can also request that they be emailed to you. Come join us in the St. Paul Conference Room after the service to explore the life and work of this fascinating American writer. For more information, email me at sallydtrigg@gmail.com. ~Sally Trigg, for the AFD Team

Carol Ann Sorensen's Celebration of Life is set for 9 October @1pm with a reception to follow. Should you like to help with the reception please be in touch with Sharon (sharonh0223@yahoo.com).

October’s God’s Work Our Hands project: October’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting senior supplies for Adopted Families. We are collecting the following items, which are always in high demand: adult diapers (such as Depends)-both male and female, all sizes; disposable bed pads; adult wet wipes; and no-rinse bathing wipes. There is a bin in the Welcome Center, or you can make a check out to St. Paul with the note: Senior Supplies. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Remembering the Saints, November 2. All Saints will be upon us before we know it! The Visual Choir will once again be hanging our All Saints photo banners. Many of you have loved ones (Our Saints) represented on these memorial collages. They have proven to be very effective in remembering those who have gone before us!
For anyone who would like to add a photo of someone who has died this year, please bring or email your photo with all of the pertinent information. Your photos will be printed in black and white for the banners and will be displayed on our "Dia de los Muertos" ofrenda, in color or as you provide. You will have your photo returned to you unharmed.
There will be a box in the Welcome Center for you to submit them (or hand them to me, Jo Browning, Karen Bunch, Kathy Callahan, Teresa Dubuque, Paul Gallegos, Shirley Nilsson, or Matt Pettersen) or email them to: janobowers68@gmail.com by Sunday, October 26. Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Starting on All Saints Sunday (2 Nov) we'll switch to ELW Setting 6.  It's been some time since we've used this setting.  So a bunch of us made some recordings to help all of us get reacquainted! These are posted on our home page in the Worship Section, https://www.stpaulabq.org/ or see the direct YouTube links below.  ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

setting 6, kyrie - https://youtu.be/0CohNq3Uxeg
setting 6, this is the feast - https://youtu.be/vmK0B5_4NyE
setting 6, gospel acclamation - https://youtu.be/GzitIpNBT0c
setting 6, holy, holy, holy - https://youtu.be/lT16It_sGFc
setting 6, lamb of God - https://youtu.be/90_BKipwys8

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.
St. Paul’s is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.
Thank you for all you do for St. Paul’s and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text preferred)

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

Prayer Shawls. Our basket is low! I am putting out a call for all prayer shawl makers. If you are able, we would appreciate it if you could get your knitting or crochet needles out and make some more prayer shawls. If you need yarn, we have lots in the sewing room. Check at the front desk for the key and take what you need to make a shawl or two. I am counting on all you talented people to fill up our prayer shawl basket! ~Sharon Hamilton, Prayer Shawl Chairperson

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

Don't miss this life-changing event! An evocative and compassionate commentary on the life and tragic killing of the young gay man in 1998, this dynamic musical experience leaves audiences hopeful and joyous. Premiered in 2016, the piece has now been performed by hundreds of choirs across the world, spreading a powerful message of unity and understanding. $5 Discount for St. Paul Members on the website: use code SPLC25.

Vigil for Immigrants Detained at Torrence: A vigil and demonstration in Estancia on Saturday, October 11 will make a noise to raise the spirits of those who need to hear it the most - the immigrant men detained inside TCDF. Please join the Dignity Not Detention New Mexico coalition to honor those detained at the Torrance County Detention Facility in Estancia, NM. We will be gathering at Arthur Park in Estancia at 11am and will listen to powerful stories from detained individuals and voices advocating for immigrant justice. The vigil will end at approximately 1pm. Please bring any signs of support and/or noise makers! 

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Theological Conference '25

Over 80 leaders, Bishop Meghan Johnston-Aelabouni, the Synod Staff and guests gathered this past week in Colorado Springs at First Lutheran Church for the Fall Theological Conference. The gathering brings together rostered and lay leaders for theological reflection, renewal, and connection. Dr. Michael Chan, VP for Mission & Inclusion at Concordia College, is leading sessions on how Biblical “story endings” point to new promise, focusing on Old Testament readings. View the opening worship service at: https://www.youtube.com/live/U-MbU3uBx0o

Gathering at the Gate Reflection by Pastor Kristin Schultz, All Saints Lutheran: “Feed us with hunger for justice…thirst for peace.” At “Gathering at the Gate” in Washington, we prayed, sang, and stood up for vulnerable people—supported by my home church in Albuquerque. We asked our senators to protect SNAP and Medicaid, using empty plates to symbolize those who’ll go hungry. We lifted symbols of loss—plates, chairs, first‑aid kits—to remember those denied food, health care, disappearance. I watched a stark vote split (every Republican vs. every Democrat) and felt the weight of division. Still, faith holds fast. Much like the 400‑year‑old Peace Tree that survived Hiroshima, our small acts of hope endure. Grateful for this gathering: protesting, learning, and trusting in God’s future.
About Gathering at the Gate: Gathering at the Gate happened September 16-17 in Washington D.C. It was a gathering for Lutheran Christians (both rostered leaders and laypeople) in response to rising injustices—especially toward refugees, immigrants, LGBTQIA+ people, people in poverty, and others marginalized by systems. The event is grounded in the biblical call from Amos 5:15 (“hate evil, love good, and establish justice in the gate”).

New this year, we will have a satellite viewing location in Las Cruces at Peace Lutheran Church.  One of our featured speakers, Rep. Sarah Silva, will also speak from there.  Complete details are located at the registration site and on our website, LutheranAdvocacyNM.org.  
          We have an outstanding line-up of guest speakers, including two legislators, Rep. Sarah Silva and Sen. Angel Charley, who will speak to seeking justice in our state's public policy. 
          In addition, please put on your calendars our 2026 Legislative Issue Briefing and Bishop's Luncheon. We had to change our original date, and the event will now be held on Wednesday, February 4th.  In hopes of making the event accessible to even more participants (last year was our largest event since before the pandemic, with 140 joining us), we are moving the start time back one hour (9:30 instead of 8:30), and we will be working to expand opportunities to ride the Methodist bus and potentially carpool and van options from various congregations in Albuquerque. ~Kurt A. Rager, Director, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM 

Rocky Mountain Synod (RMS) Sumud. Save the date for…Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine: Accompany. Advocate. Raise Awareness. October 16 @ 7:00-8:30 PM MDT.
On July 30, 2025, the Churchwide Assembly of the ELCA passed the memorial, “Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine”. Please join RMS Sumud on zoom Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 7pm to learn more about this memorial, the doors it opens for engagement, ELCA resources that support our engagement, and how you can connect. Details and Registration coming soon!
A link to the approved Memorial is found at: https://elcamediaresources.blob.core.windows.net/cdn/wp-content/uploads/toward_ending_occupation_of_palestine_SPR25_CA25-03-13.pdf

You're invited to nominate students for Lutheran Summer Music 2026:
St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN, June 21-July 19 (Full Session), June 21-July 3 (Half Session), Grades 8-12.
          Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival (LSM) is the nation's premier faith-based music academy for high school students. Each year, young musicians come together from around the country to immerse themselves in musical excellence and build a supportive and fun community, sharing musical gifts in performance and in worship. https://www.lsmacademy.org/

Bread for the World: The Violence of Hunger. This summer, the 2025 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report gave us the most current look at hunger across the globe. The numbers are sobering—and yet they tell a story that is both deeply troubling and cautiously hopeful.
In 2024, 673.2 million people faced hunger—meaning they didn’t have enough food to live a normal, healthy life. It’s a staggering number. And while that figure represents a slight global decrease in hunger—8.5 percent lower than the year before—it’s still far worse than it was before the pandemic. We haven’t recovered.
Progress has been uneven. Asia has made significant strides, and Latin America has improved slightly. But in Western Asia and especially in Africa, hunger is rising. In Africa alone, more than one in five people—nearly 307 million—faced hunger this year.
The data on food insecurity—which includes those uncertain about where their next meal is coming from—is even more staggering. In 2024, 28 percent of the world’s population faced food insecurity. 828 million of them experienced severe food insecurity—going days without eating.
Even more alarming, 295 million people in 53 countries faced acute food insecurity—people who were either in crisis, emergency, or even famine conditions. That’s nearly 14 million more than the year before.
And in five regions—Gaza, Sudan, South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali—nearly 2 million people were in "Catastrophe" phase: on the edge of death from hunger. That’s the highest number ever recorded since such tracking began—and more than double from the previous year. In Sudan, famine is no longer a threat, it’s a present reality. In the Zamzam camp in North Darfur, famine was confirmed, and it has been detected or projected in multiple other regions. What’s driving this? One word: conflict.
Conflict destroys harvests, markets, supply chains, and homes. It displaces people and prevents humanitarian aid from reaching those who need it most. It turns food into a weapon and hunger into a tool of war. The violence of armed conflict begets the violence of hunger.
Violence not only threatens lives and dignity—it erodes institutions, trust, and the social cohesion necessary for justice. Violence erodes the fabric of our society and prevents human flourishing. Peace is essential for human dignity.
At Bread for the World, we believe that every human being—created in the image of God—has inherent dignity. That dignity includes the opportunity to live in right relationship with God, self, neighbor, and the environment. It includes the right to have enough nutritious food for good health. It includes the right to flourish.
That’s why we must feed souls as we work to feed people. bread.org

Updates Beginning 28 September 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: Anne Morawski is the former Lutheran campus pastor at UNM and CNM. Since retirement, she has moved to Hungary and is leading an English-language congregation in Budapest under the auspices of the local Lutheran bishop. She is also a long-time friend of St. Paul. This Sunday, Anne is in the U.S. and will be visiting the adult class. She will be prepared to discuss what she has been up to lately, where she believes we should be applying ourselves these days, what it is like living in a different--and challenging--political environment, and much more. Bring your questions for Anne and prepare for a stimulating, entertaining discussion. In the Conference Room after the service at 11:15 a.m. All are welcome!! ~Bob Matthews, for the AFD Team

Join Us This Saturday, 4 October, at St. Paul to participate in the installation of ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry. The installation will take place in Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis and is available to us online. Bishop Curry was elected to the six-year term on July 30 at the ELCA Assembly in Phoenix. We will gather at St. Paul at 1pm.
          Bishop Curry, currently Bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, began his ministerial career as a lay mission developer after connecting with what became Shekinah Chapel in Riverdale, Illinois. He participated in the Theological Education for Emerging Ministries program of the ELCA, was called as Pastor of Shekinah in 2012, and got his MDiv degree in 2013 from Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. He was elected Synod Bishop in 2019.
          This is a very special time for the ELCA. Join us for this unique event. Snacks will be available.
          For those who may want to learn more: Presiding Bishop Installation https://share.google/TcJU9KHfzRhQg9HM1
~Ivan Westergaard 

Carol Ann Sorensen's Celebration of Life is set for 9 October @1pm with a reception to follow. Should you like to help with the reception please be in touch with Sharon (sharonh0223@yahoo.com).

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Remembering the Saints, November 2. All Saints will be upon us before we know it! The Visual Choir will once again be hanging our All Saints photo banners. Many of you have loved ones (Our Saints) represented on these memorial collages. They have proven to be very effective in remembering those who have gone before us!
For anyone who would like to add a photo of someone who has died this year, please bring or email your photo with all of the pertinent information. Your photos will be printed in black and white for the banners and will be displayed on our "Dia de los Muertos" ofrenda, in color or as you provide. You will have your photo returned to you unharmed.
There will be a box in the Welcome Center for you to submit them (or hand them to me, Jo Browning, Karen Bunch, Kathy Callahan, Teresa Dubuque, Paul Gallegos, Shirley Nilsson, or Matt Pettersen) or email them to: janobowers68@gmail.com by Sunday, October 26. Thank you! ~Jan Bowers

Starting on All Saints Sunday (2 Nov) we'll switch to ELW Setting 6.  It's been some time since we've used this setting.  So a bunch of us made some recordings to help all of us get reacquainted! These are posted on our home page in the Worship Section, https://www.stpaulabq.org/ or see the direct YouTube links below.  ~Peace, Pr. Koppel
setting 6, kyrie - https://youtu.be/0CohNq3Uxeg
setting 6, this is the feast - https://youtu.be/vmK0B5_4NyE
setting 6, gospel acclamation - https://youtu.be/GzitIpNBT0c
setting 6, holy, holy, holy - https://youtu.be/lT16It_sGFc
setting 6, lamb of God - https://youtu.be/90_BKipwys8

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project: We are collecting funds for the Friends Feeding Friends First Thursday meal on October 2nd at HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please note FFF October in the memo line. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Spreading the Word about St. Paul’s Ministry Groups. Are you ever frustrated when trying to remember the names of all the vibrant ministries at St. Paul for yourself or for an interested newcomer? Beyond the name of each ministry, what are its purpose, activities, and information contact? We are working to provide answers to these questions.
St. Paul’s is launching a new project to gather information about our ministries and to create a booklet/brochure with essential information, such as each ministry’s purpose, meeting times, activities, etc. We will be reaching out to leaders in each group to gather information, so you may soon be asked for a short online or in-person meeting to tell your ministry’s story. We hope to have a new booklet or brochure ready in early 2026.
          Thank you for all you do for St. Paul’s and for helping us to SPREAD THE WORD! ~Sally Trigg, sallydtrigg@gmail.com, 575 613 3722 (email or text preferred)

 Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Parking Update: Bradbury-Stamm will continue to use our parking lot weekdays through November 15. This includes the green curbs and the spots from the Choir Room door up to the blue curbs. Please, if you come on a weekday, come around the corner to the south side parking. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

HELP…we need help counting the weekly offering. We have 4 teams who serve once a month. Whenever someone is unable to count on their Sunday, we need a substitute. Could we count on you? You will never do it alone. Talk to Roger Hein or Sharon Hamilton or Kathie Boissiere or Jan Bower or Hal Schultz or Hal or Shirley Nilsson or Paula Eglinton or Herb Korff or Sig Stocking……someone, PLEASE. ~Paula Eglinton

From Local Partner Organizations

Special Ally Request for Volunteers: Santa Fe Witnessing for Gaza event. A group of JVP's allies in Santa Fe will be holding an event starting on Wed 10/1/25 to read aloud the names of the tens of thousands of people killed in and around Gaza since October 1, 2023. The reading of names will begin at sunset on October 1, 2025, and will continue day and night until all the known names are read, likely until the evening of October 6, 2025. Please sign up to read names and/or volunteer for other roles at https://witnessforgaza.wordpress.com/join-us/.

$5 Discount for St. Paul Members on the website: use code SPLC25.

 
From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Rocky Mountain Synod (RMS) Sumud. Save the date for…Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine: Accompany. Advocate. Raise Awareness. October 16 @ 7:00-8:30 PM MDT.
On July 30, 2025, the Churchwide Assembly of the ELCA passed the memorial, “Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine”. Please join RMS Sumud on zoom Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 7pm to learn more about this memorial, the doors it opens for engagement, ELCA resources that support our engagement, and how you can connect. Details and Registration coming soon!
A link to the approved Memorial is found at: https://elcamediaresources.blob.core.windows.net/cdn/wp-content/uploads/toward_ending_occupation_of_palestine_SPR25_CA25-03-13.pdf

New Beginnings, a prison ministry inside Denver Women's Correctional Facility, accepts new and unused greeting cards for donation, as their residents use these to keep in touch with their loved ones. Cards can be sent to: Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 4500 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. https://www.newbeginningswc.org

Bread for the World (bread.org) is pleased to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in 2025. Throughout the month our reflections and prayers will focus on the challenges faced by Latino communities. People of Latino/Hispanic heritage are a huge benefit to the United States and add almost 4 trillion dollars annually to the economy. Many Latino families are proud immigrants having come to the U.S. to work and build a better life. Despite their hard work, The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that in 2023, nearly 22 percent of Latino/a households had at least one member who experienced food insecurity.
Since 2016, immigration has remained an important part of Bread’s advocacy agenda and now more than ever we acknowledge that immigration is a hunger issue. In many Latino immigrant communities, churches report that families are now afraid to walk to the food pantry and falling deeper into hunger. Guided by our faith we look to scripture, and I invite us to learn from the words of the prophet Micah. We are challenged in the midst of adversity to focus on what God asks of us. Even as we recognize struggle, God calls us to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly.     

He has told you, O mortal, what is good,
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice and to love kindness
and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:8

As we enter the final months of the year, join Global Refuge to learn more about the latest changes in immigration policy and what they mean for those we serve. President and CEO Krish O'Mara Vignarajah and representatives from across the organization will share more about the state of our programming, advocacy efforts, and beyond. Supporters will then have an opportunity to ask questions during an extended Q&A session.
Thanks to your support, we can #StillWelcome our refugee and other immigrant neighbors. You make this work possible. Thank you. 
Thursday, 2 October, 12pm ET.
Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_an3aY_9USi627Ni_EqgcmQ?mc_cid=f309d85065&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Updates Beginning 21 September 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: Did you know that the ELCA held its church-wide assembly in Phoenix last month? Did you know a new ELCA presiding bishop was elected at the assembly? And did you know that TWO St. Paul people were official participants in the assembly? Terry Cole, voting member from the Rocky Mountain Synod, and Rindra Josoa, member of the ELCA Church Council, will join Adult Faith Development this Sunday to talk about their experiences and answer your questions about the assembly, what's happening in the ELCA, and how you can be involved. This is a can't-miss opportunity, and everyone is invited. Conference Room, beginning after the service at 11:15. Grab some refreshments and join us down the hall! ~Bob Matthews, for the AFD Team

Starting Today: St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you!  The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for today & next Sunday.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Carol Ann Sorensen's Celebration of Life is set for 9 October @1pm with a reception to follow. Should you like to help with the reception please be in touch with Sharon (sharonh0223@yahoo.com).

Starting on All Saints Sunday (2 Nov) we'll switch to ELW Setting 6.  It's been some time since we've used this setting.  So a bunch of us made some recordings to help all of us get reacquainted! These are posted on our home page in the Worship Section, https://www.stpaulabq.org/ or see the direct YouTube links below.  ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

setting 6, kyrie - https://youtu.be/0CohNq3Uxeg
setting 6, this is the feast - https://youtu.be/vmK0B5_4NyE
setting 6, gospel acclamation - https://youtu.be/GzitIpNBT0c
setting 6, holy, holy, holy - https://youtu.be/lT16It_sGFc
setting 6, lamb of God - https://youtu.be/90_BKipwys8

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Sound Equipment Team. We have a lovely collection of portable Sound Equipment (digital piano, amplifier, speakers, mics, etc.).  One of my favorite uses is for our 5pm Christmas Eve Service on the Labyrinth (with fire pits and hot chocolate!).  Interested in learning how to set it up and/or like to schlep somewhat heavy components?  Please let me know soon and we'll gather all interested and have a few practice sessions!  ~Pr. Koppel

Parking Update: Bradbury-Stamm will continue to use our parking lot weekdays through November 15. This includes the green curbs and the spots from the Choir Room door up to the blue curbs. Please, if you come on a weekday, come around the corner to the south side parking. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project: We are collecting funds for the Friends Feeding Friends First Thursday meal on October 2nd at HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please note FFF October in the memo line. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

HELP…we need help counting the weekly offering. We have 4 teams who serve once a month. Whenever someone is unable to count on their Sunday, we need a substitute. Could we count on you? You will never do it alone. Talk to Roger Hein or Sharon Hamilton or Kathie Boissiere or Jan Bower or Hal Schultz or Hal or Shirley Nilsson or Paula Eglinton or Herb Korff or Sig Stocking……someone, PLEASE. ~Paula Eglinton

A Note from Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless to Adopted Families:

From Local Partner Organizations

Special Ally Request for Volunteers: Santa Fe Witnessing for Gaza event. A group of JVP's allies in Santa Fe will be holding an event starting on Wed 10/1/25 to read aloud the names of the tens of thousands of people killed in and around Gaza since October 1, 2023. The reading of names will begin at sunset on October 1, 2025, and will continue day and night until all the known names are read, likely until the evening of October 6, 2025. Please sign up to read names and/or volunteer for other roles at https://witnessforgaza.wordpress.com/join-us/.

Raven Chacon: Tiguex. Join Coro Lux at the Albuquerque Volcanic Fields at 1:00pm on Saturday, September 27th to bring a portion of this Pulitzer Prize-winning composer's large-scale work to life! Other events will take place all day throughout the Albuquerque area. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit https://www.tiguex.com

$5 Discount for St. Paul Members on the website: use code SPLC25.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni shares her greetings and September Rocky Mountain Synod updates on 16 September from Faith Lutheran Church in Golden, Colorado: https://vimeo.com/1119170295

A Message from Bishop Eaton on Political Violence, September 11, 2025: As presiding bishop of this church, I want to address yesterday’s shooting in Utah. Charlie Kirk, known by millions for his views and videos supporting right-wing ideas, died by another senseless act of political violence. He was exercising his First Amendment right of free speech when he was shot and killed. This continues a long streak of political violence that shows no sign of subsiding. We’ve witnessed an attack on the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, two attempts to assassinate President Donald Trump during last year’s campaign, the murder of two Minnesota state lawmakers, an arson attack on the home of Pennsylvania’s governor, a plot to kidnap Michigan’s governor, and too many more.
                As I wrote last year, after the attempt on President Trump’s life in Butler, Pa., “God calls this church to say a definitive ‘no’ to political violence now and in the future. Political violence has a long history but no place in democracy. This church belongs to God, and our unity in Christ is a grace-filled and healing gift in a fractured society.”
                This church teaches that disagreement is healthy and can lead to greater understanding and cooperation. But we have lost that sense of respectful debate and have degenerated into a society that treats differing opinions as personal attacks, erasing the humanity of some and abandoning the gospel of Jesus Christ. We must recommit ourselves to reflecting what Christ taught us through acts of forgiveness, healing and new life. I continue to hold that “God’s resolve for peace in human communities is unshakable.”
                In this moment, I urge all of us in this church to embrace God’s call, to hear and embody the good news of Jesus Christ and to fulfill our roles as peacemakers through active civic engagement.

The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, Presiding Bishop, ELCA 

New Beginnings, a prison ministry inside Denver Women's Correctional Facility, accepts new and unused greeting cards for donation, as their residents use these to keep in touch with their loved ones. Cards can be sent to: Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 4500 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. https://www.newbeginningswc.org

Global Refuge's Camino a Casa program serves youth who return to their home countries after attempting to migrate to the United States, helping them reintegrate and thrive with tailored plans that support their personal and professional goals. Meet three of these incredible young people—Luz, Jonathan, and Yoni—and hear more about how they're building a brighter future at home with the help of our dedicated local staff. Learn more about the program at: globalrefuge.org/caminoacasa

Bread for the World: A Message from Rev. Cho. Malnutrition is a quiet killer. Its impact can be devastating, especially for children. It stunts growth, weakens immune systems, impairs cognitive development, and can lead to death. Yet, for all its devastation, malnutrition is often reversible – if help arrives in time. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world today, not enough help is not arriving. Read more from Bread president and CEO Rev. Eugene Cho about this urgent problem and what you can do to help: https://www.bread.org/article/malnutrition-is-a-quiet-killer/

Border Immersion: Hi St. Paul folks, as a member of the Rocky Mountain Synod Global Church Network I would like to encourage you to consider attending the immersion trip to the border that we have planned for November 1 through 7. I have participated in similar immersions and can tell you it is definitely a worthwhile, spiritually challenging experience. During this challenging time in our country when our neighbors are living in fear and uncertainty, we wonder what we can do. Visiting the border and seeing in real time what is happening there is a jumpstart to being allies. It would be great if a small group from St. Paul would attend. Please let me know if you are interested or have questions. See the flyer below.  ~Peace, Terry Cole

Updates Beginning 14 September 2025

Adult Faith Development Today: We are living in discombobulated times for our government, politics, and society!  How have you stayed grounded, or do you feel pretty ungrounded?  Come and share and learn some strategies.  When we stay connected, things generally go much better.  We will meet in the Conference Room at 11:15am. ~Jane Voelkel, for the AFD Team

Starting Next Sunday: St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you!  The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 21 & 28 September.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

This Week: Women Rowing North. Where did the summer go? September is here and next week will be the beginning of Women Rowing North Gatherings’ fourth year at St. Paul.

September Meeting Dates:
Tuesday        9/16/25      1:00PM-3:00PM
Thursday      9/18/25      9:00AM-11:00AM 

September Gathering: Because several individuals have expressed an interest in joining our monthly get-togethers and we have not met for 3 months, we are going to spend intentional time sharing stories and connecting with one another in September. Please bring your favorite poem or prayer to the gathering. If you can not decide which one is your favorite, bring them both or all. They will be read in the months to come. *For those who have not had a chance to get your books or read Part 1 in David Brooks book, beginning our discussions in October will give you a little more time. 

Books:
October 2025 through January 2026:
How To Know A Person by David Brooks

February 2025 through March 2026:
These Precious Days by Ann Patchett

April 2025 through May 2026:
The Story of Arthur Trulux by Elizabeth Berg

Refreshments: Sign-up Sheets will be available in September. 

As always, blessings to all. ~Nancy Jenkins and Linda Fitzgerald

Our Adopted Families ministry has been reminded that there is a great need for household items, specifically furniture, like chairs, tables, lamps and dressers. Call us at home, 505-897-4916 if you have something to contribute. ~Paula and Bill Eglinton

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project: We are collecting funds for the Friends Feeding Friends First Thursday meal on October 2nd at HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please note FFF October in the memo line. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

From Local Partner Organizations

ECM Donation Drive Today: The Hook Up harm reduction collective celebrates its 5th birthday this month and is collecting donations to support its monthly event to resource unsheltered communities. Requested items include sleeping bags, tents, tarps, bungees, backpacks, travel size hygiene items, shaving razors, wet wipes, lip balm, menstrual products, ibuprofen/aspirin, bandaids and other wound care products, new underwear and socks, AA batteries, candy, dog food, stuffed animals, makeup and jewelry. Clothing is also welcome (particularly masculine) but often easier to come by than the other requested items. Feel free to either give it to Diane at church on 9/14 or to bring it that day between 10-1:30pm to our event at ECM (123 Vermont St NE). ~iusti remer-thamert

Dear friends of Coro Lux:

As we enter our second decade of existence, we want to announce the first and second concerts of our 11th season-- the premiere of Tiguex: Volcano Chorus  by the Pulitzer Prize-winning native composer Raven Chacon, and the life-changing Considering Matthew Shepard conducted by the composer himself and including narration by Ali MacGraw and Spencer Beckwith. 
                Tiguex: Volcano Chorus is one part of a twenty movement composition that takes place all across the Albuquerque area (originally known as "Tiguex" by the Tewa people) on Saturday, the 27th of September. Our portion takes place at the center volcano on the west side of the city, beginning at 1 pm. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit https://www.tiguex.com
                Then, on October 11th and 12th, we'll perform the Grammy-nominated Considering Matthew Shepard, conducted by its Grammy-winning composer, Craig Hella Johnson. Incorporating a multitude of musical styles, including blues, hymns, cowboy songs, Motown and modern choral writing, the Washington Post had this to say about the premiere: “’Considering Matthew Shepard’ demonstrates music’s capacity to encompass, transform and transcend tragedy. Powerfully cathartic, it leads us... to a higher understanding of the human condition, enabling us to endure.” 
                Considering Matthew Shepard takes place during Balloon Fiesta, and with hundreds of thousands of visitors in town, tickets will go fast. See below to get yours now! 

Thanks for being a part of the Coro Lux family. 
Bradley Ellingboe, Founder and Artistic Director
https://abqcorolux.org/tickets/

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

A Word from Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni on 10 September:

Dear friends in Christ,

Like many of you, I am heartbroken today to learn of two school shootings right here in the Rocky Mountain Synod: a shooting at Evergreen High School in Evergreen, CO that injured three young people under 18, including the shooter who died of self-inflicted injuries; and a shooting at Utah Valley University in Orem, UT that has killed 31-year-old Charlie Kirk in what appears to be a targeted act of political violence.

Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy.

I have spoken with our Utah conference dean, Pastor Brigette Weier, and with the pastor of Evergreen Lutheran Church, Pastor Terry Schjang; please read their wise and powerful words offered in this special issue. I have shared with them that the prayers of our whole synod are with all those affected: in relief and gratitude for those who are safe; in fervent hope of recovery for injured victims; in sorrow for the death of Mr. Kirk, that God’s loving presence may comfort his wife, young children, and loved ones; and in grief for the widespread trauma that is rippling out into these communities and beyond. I know that for too many of us, today’s shootings are also a terrible echo of past violence in Littleton, Aurora, Colorado Springs, and many other communities in our synod. Our hearts are with you. I encourage all who are struggling with this news to reach out to your pastor or deacon, to a mental health professional, or to a trusted friend or family member. You are not alone.

In the wake of yet more gun violence and yet more political violence in our nation, we are bound to find ourselves surrounded by arguments about causes and solutions. Each of these tragic events has its own story; and I implore us as members of the body of Christ to “mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15) by remembering that every child and adult whose life is impacted or ended by violence is a beloved child of God. I ask us to remember that today’s pain is not just another statistic, but a fresh and deep wound for our neighbors, and a resurfacing of trauma for many who have endured and survived other acts of violence. Let us be tender with one another, and bear with one another in love.      

At the same time, as people of faith called to speak the truth in love, we cannot ignore that school shootings and political violence are no longer isolated events. Our neighbors in Minnesota are still reeling from the shooting at the Annunciation Catholic School just two weeks ago, and the killing earlier this summer of MN Rep Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark in another politically-motivated attack. I know that many of us are grieving, not only each incident of violence, but all of them together—and grieving the political systems that seem to trap our country in a loop where “thoughts and prayers,” however heartfelt and faithful, do not lead to meaningful action or real solutions.

As Christians, we pray for God to act; and we also pray for God to empower us to act. As we pray for God to bind up, restore, heal, comfort, and embrace those left wounded in body, mind, and spirit by these attacks, we also pray for God to empower us to change and advocate for the world God intends: a world in which schools are a place of safety, and the loved ones we send out into the world each day come home safely to us each night. As we pray for an end to gun violence and political violence, let us also pray for the strength and courage to do the hard work that can prevent and lessen this violence.

We pray these things not because we alone are able to do them, but because our hope and trust—the source of all we are able to do—is the God of Jesus Christ. As Jesus healed the wounds of others, accepted the wounds of the world on the cross, and rose to new life in resurrection, so now Jesus lives and is present in every place of woundedness: including classrooms where children and teachers crouch in fear, hallways where medical staff work tirelessly to tend to injuries and save lives, and all places where our voices cry out on behalf of the suffering of our neighbors.

May we persist in prayer, in compassion, and in action, for the sake of the world God so loves that God sent Jesus not to condemn the world but to save it. Come quickly, Lord; and show us the way.

In Christ,
Bishop Meghan

Bishop Eaton’s ELCA Statement on Supreme Court Ruling That Allows Racial Profiling in Immigration Enforcement:
I am deeply troubled by incidents of racial profiling* that are happening across this country in the name of law enforcement and national security. Such inhumane treatment is being employed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in wanton immigration stops, targeting individuals based on race, ethnicity, language, occupation or location. In particular, I and many in this church lament the Supreme Court action of Sept. 8 in which the court granted a stay of a lower court’s restraining order that had limited such enforcement practices in Los Angeles while judicial action is pending.
          My concern is grounded in Scripture, ELCA social teaching and care for our neighbors. Scripture is clear: every human being is created in the image of God. Racial profiling denies that image and violates the dignity it confers. It is not only unjust — it is inhumane. This church’s teaching is also clear, having expressed grave objections to patterns of racial, ethnic and religious profiling because it “stigmatizes those who are innocent of any offense” (ELCA social statement The Church and Criminal Justice: Hearing the Cries, p. 40). Every neighbor, regardless of immigration status, deserves safety, dignity and equal protection under the law. Racial profiling, a legacy of white supremacy, is rooted in the sin of racism (ELCA social statement Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture, p. 5).
          As your presiding bishop, I want to speak directly to the Latiné community. I want you to know that I and other leaders of this church see what is happening and join you in calling out this injustice. In particular, the Supreme Court’s reversal of the stay is a dangerous shift, exposing the Latiné community and other vulnerable communities to discriminatory treatment that threatens civil liberties and undermines constitutional protections. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, in her response to the ruling, sounded this urgent alarm: “We should not have to live in a country where the Government can seize anyone who looks Latino, speaks Spanish, and appears to work a low wage job.”
          I want to be clear that, though this ruling effectively singles out the Latiné community, it also sets a precedent that will erode constitutional safeguards for all of us. I am reminded of the poem “First They Came,” derived from a speech by German Pastor Martin Niemöller: “First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out — because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out — because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me — and there was no one left to speak for me.” This famous quotation illustrates how the systematic targeting of marginalized groups can escalate when people fail to defend others’ rights, as happened when most people remained silent during the rise of Nazi persecution in Germany. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of quietism and inaction in the face of injustice.
          To meet this moment, God calls us to advocacy. Guided by God’s law in the Scriptures, which demand justice and seek the well-being of all, the ELCA calls upon policymakers and community leaders to:

• Honor or restore constitutional safeguards against racial and ethnic profiling.

• Reverse policies and practices that normalize discrimination or exclusion.

• Reaffirm a shared commitment to justice that upholds the worth of every neighbor.

• Work for an immigration system that protects the dignity of all.

* Racial profiling: “The use, typically by law enforcement, of a person’s racial or ethnic characteristics in the decision to detain or question the person about potential criminal activity” (ELCA social statement The Church and Criminal Justice: Hearing the Cries, p. 51).

The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

https://www.elca.org/news-and-events/elca-statement-on-supreme-court-ruling-that-allows-racial-profiling-in-immigration-enforcement

Please pray for our companion synod partners in the Malagasy Lutheran Church - Sofia Synod, Mahajanga Synod, Avarata Antsinanana Synod, Antsiranana Synod, Betela Seminary, female theologians seeking ordination, and Pastor Kristin Engstrom, ELCA Global Missionary to Madagascar.

Gracious and Loving God, we lift up our siblings in the Malagasy Lutheran Church—from the Sofia, Mahajanga, Avarata Antsinanana, and Antsiranana Synods, to Betela Seminary, the female theologians pursuing ordination, and Pastor Kristin Engstrom. Open ministry doors, inspire boldness in sharing Your Word, and protect their bodies, minds, and spirits. May their faith flourish, their unity strengthen, and Your light shine brightly through their witness. In Jesus’ name—Amen.

New Beginnings accepts new and unused greeting cards for donation, as their residents use these to keep in touch with their loved ones. If you have cards for donation, you may send them to the following address: Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 4500 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. New Beginnings is a prison ministry inside Denver Women's Correctional Facility: https://www.newbeginningswc.org

Global Refuge's Camino a Casa program serves youth who return to their home countries after attempting to migrate to the United States, helping them reintegrate and thrive with tailored plans that support their personal and professional goals. Meet three of these incredible young people—Luz, Jonathan, and Yoni—and hear more about how they're building a brighter future at home with the help of our dedicated local staff. Learn more about the program at: globalrefuge.org/caminoacasa

Bread for the World: A Message from Rev. Cho. Malnutrition is a quiet killer. Its impact can be devastating, especially for children. It stunts growth, weakens immune systems, impairs cognitive development, and can lead to death. Yet, for all its devastation, malnutrition is often reversible – if help arrives in time. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world today, not enough help is not arriving. Read more from Bread president and CEO Rev. Eugene Cho about this urgent problem and what you can do to help: https://www.bread.org/article/malnutrition-is-a-quiet-killer/

Border Immersion: Hi St. Paul folks, as a member of the Rocky Mountain Synod Global Church Network I would like to encourage you to consider attending the immersion trip to the border that we have planned for November 1 through 7. I have participated in similar immersions and can tell you it is definitely a worthwhile, spiritually challenging experience. During this challenging time in our country when our neighbors are living in fear and uncertainty, we wonder what we can do. Visiting the border and seeing in real time what is happening there is a jumpstart to being allies. It would be great if a small group from St. Paul would attend. Please let me know if you are interested or have questions. See the flyer below.  ~Peace, Terry Cole

Updates Beginning 7 September 2025

A couple weeks ago I wrote:  What would it look like to do more ministry together?  Of the 8 ELCA churches in the Albuquerque/Rio Rancho area, none of us are full on Sunday mornings.  However, we all have our own clergy, our own administrative and music staff, and our own buildings (though many of us are struggling with the affordability of all of this).  Let me just name that Spirit's work is not hindered, amazing ministry is happening!  At the same time, to be rather blunt, I believe we are being terrible stewards of our finances.  Or put in a more positive way, we could be so much more creative!  And that's where the bolded question above comes into play.  While I don't know where this will lead or if it will produce anything at all, I do feel at the very least, it is worth reaching out to our partners and facilitating conversation.
I'm excited to add:  a small group has formed and we met this past week.  Stay tuned as the Spirit does her thing, especially as we keep asking What would it look like to do more ministry together?  ~Peace, Pr. Koppel

September’s God’s Work Our Hands project: We are collecting funds for the Friends Feeding Friends First Thursday meal on October 2nd at HopeWorks. On your check to St. Paul, please note FFF October in the memo line. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Save the dates for the next St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you!  The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 21 & 28 September.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

Adopted Families Update: Since 1991, our St. Paul congregation has participated in a ministry of sharing and its creator was Kay Schoenefeld. With Kay’s death in late July we realize this ministry may evolve, but its spirit remains the same. We invite you to plug into some facet of it. We especially need some strong arms and backs to load our pickup truck when someone has furniture to give away. Here is a brief summary of what has been done in the past:

1.   Receiving and distributing household goods: requires strength ( we have the moving vehicle)

2.   Handling requests from calls made to St. Paul for help: vetting authenticity of request

3.   Coordinating with Healthcare for the Homeless to purchase bus tickets

4.   Adopted Families Christmas tree: organization of process for month long collection of gifts followed by distribution

5.   Regular article in church bulletin to share activities that have happened

If you want more information or a way to participate, call me at 505-897-4916 (home). ~Thank you, Paula Eglinton

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

This Friday:

Tickets available at www. Eventbrite.com

From Local Partner Organizations

This afternoon: You are Invited to the Dedication of CommonSpirit St. Joseph’s Children’s newest program, St. Joseph’s Sobriety Program. Dear Friend and Colleague, it is with great joy that we write today to invite you to participate in the dedication of CommonSpirit St. Joseph’s Children’s newest program, “St. Joseph’s Sobriety Program”  at 4pm on Sunday, September 7th.
          Beginning Tuesday, September 2, 2025, we will be offering an intensive outpatient treatment program for alcohol and substance addiction. The Sobriety Program offers universal access for adults;  all are welcome to participate and there is no cost to the participants.
The Board of Directors of CommonSpirit St. Joseph’s Children has responded to the need in our community by adding the Sobriety Program to the scope of work of our organization.  Our Home Visiting Program for First Time Parents continues to experience great success for our enrolled families and we will incorporate the core values of compassion, inclusion, collaboration, integrity and excellence into the new program.
Please join us at 4pm on Sunday, September 7th for the dedication of the new Sobriety Program and to enjoy a matanza-style meal with us at our facility, 1516  5th Street NW, in Albuquerque.
Thank you for your continued collaboration and partnership in the community. Allen Sánchez, President and Mission Leader

This afternoon:

ECM Donation Drive: The Hook Up harm reduction collective celebrates its 5th birthday this month and is collecting donations to support its monthly event to resource unsheltered communities. Requested items include sleeping bags, tents, tarps, bungees, backpacks, travel size hygiene items, shaving razors, wet wipes, lip balm, menstrual products, ibuprofen/aspirin, bandaids and other wound care products, new underwear and socks, AA batteries, candy, dog food, stuffed animals, makeup and jewelry. Clothing is also welcome (particularly masculine) but often easier to come by than the other requested items. Feel free to either give it to Diane at church on 9/14 or to bring it that day between 10-1:30pm to our event at ECM (123 Vermont St NE). ~iusti remer-thamert

Raven Chacon: Tiguex. Join Coro Lux at the Albuquerque Volcanic Fields at 1:00pm on Saturday, September 27th to bring a portion of this Pulitzer Prize-winning composer's large-scale work to life! Other events will take place all day throughout the Albuquerque area. FREE and open to the public!

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Please pray for our companion synod partners in the Malagasy Lutheran Church - Sofia Synod, Mahajanga Synod, Avarata Antsinanana Synod, Antsiranana Synod, Betela Seminary, female theologians seeking ordination, and Pastor Kristin Engstrom, ELCA Global Missionary to Madagascar.

Gracious and Loving God, we lift up our siblings in the Malagasy Lutheran Church—from the Sofia, Mahajanga, Avarata Antsinanana, and Antsiranana Synods, to Betela Seminary, the female theologians pursuing ordination, and Pastor Kristin Engstrom. Open ministry doors, inspire boldness in sharing Your Word, and protect their bodies, minds, and spirits. May their faith flourish, their unity strengthen, and Your light shine brightly through their witness. In Jesus’ name—Amen.

This Wednesday:

Border Immersion: Hi St. Paul folks, as a member of the Rocky Mountain Synod Global Church Network I would like to encourage you to consider attending the immersion trip to the border that we have planned for November 1 through 7. I have participated in similar immersions and can tell you it is definitely a worthwhile, spiritually challenging experience. During this challenging time in our country when our neighbors are living in fear and uncertainty, we wonder what we can do. Visiting the border and seeing in real time what is happening there is a jumpstart to being allies. It would be great if a small group from St. Paul would attend. Please let me know if you are interested or have questions. See the flyer below.  ~Peace, Terry Cole

Updates Beginning 31 August 2025

Next Sunday, 7 Sept: Rally Sunday/God’s Work Our Hands Sunday. Joint worship with Caminemos Juntos and Chapel of the Holy Spirit will be followed by a potluck in Fellowship Hall, with the main dish provided. Join us for fun and fellowship! ~Deborah Ash 

This Tuesday 9/2: First Tuesday! Everyone, members of the congregation, friends of the congregation, extended family members, etc. are invited to come. We have no agenda except to catch up on what is new in our lives. You might think we could do that on Sunday morning but as soon as we leave the sanctuary, we scatter off to class, meetings, etc. Sometimes the best we can do is just wave to each other across a room.
          We will meet at Bow & Arrow Brewery, 602 McKnight NW, between 4:00 - 6:00pm. You are welcome to bring a snack to share. We received mixed reviews on our first visit there in August so we will stay there for a few more months and then see if we want to change. ~Nancy Matthews

Save the dates for the next St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you!  The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 21 & 28 September.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

Adopted Families Update: Since 1991, our St. Paul congregation has participated in a ministry of sharing and its creator was Kay Schoenefeld. With Kay’s death in late July we realize this ministry may evolve, but its spirit remains the same. We invite you to plug into some facet of it. We especially need some strong arms and backs to load our pickup truck when someone has furniture to give away. Here is a brief summary of what has been done in the past:

1.   Receiving and distributing household goods: requires strength ( we have the moving vehicle)

2.   Handling requests from calls made to St. Paul for help: vetting authenticity of request

3.   Coordinating with Healthcare for the Homeless to purchase bus tickets

4.   Adopted Families Christmas tree: organization of process for month long collection of gifts followed by distribution

5.   Regular article in church bulletin to share activities that have happened

If you want more information or a way to participate, call me at 505-897-4916 (home). ~Thank you, Paula Eglinton

Sabbatical ponderings:  What would it look like to do more ministry together? Of the 8 ELCA churches in the Albuquerque/Rio Rancho area, none of us are full on Sunday mornings.  However, we all have our own clergy, our own administrative and music staff, and our own buildings (though many of us are struggling with the affordability of all of this).  Let me just name that Spirit's work is not hindered, amazing ministry is happening!  At the same time, to be rather blunt, I believe we are being terrible stewards of our finances.  Or put in a more positive way, we could be so much more creative!  And that's where the bolded question above comes into play.  While I don't know where this will lead or if it will produce anything at all, I do feel at the very least, it is worth reaching out to our partners and facilitating conversation.  Interested in being a part of this?  Let's chat!  ~Pr. Koppel

August’s God’s Work Our Hands project is gathering diapers for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept 15-21), the Rocky Mountain Synod Women’s Organization’s Fall Gathering project. Here in Albuquerque, the diapers will be delivered to the Junior League of ABQ Diaper Bank. You can place your donations in the bin in the Welcome Center or bring them to the office. It is exciting that this is occurring throughout the Synod benefiting local organizations. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins (Secretary, RMSWO)

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Next Week:

Tickets available at www. Eventbrite.com

From Local Partner Organizations

This Week, 5 Sept: Church Women United - World Community Day. Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s fellowship, will gather for their World Community Day celebration on Friday, September 5th at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 6901 Wyoming NE.  The morning will begin at 9:30 a.m. with coffee fellowship, followed by the program at 10:00.  Rev. Anne Morawski will be our featured speaker.  She was the Lutheran Campus Pastor at UNM/CNM for 15 years.  Since her retirement in 2017, she has been volunteering  with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Budapest, Hungary.  She is “home” now but has plans to return to Hungary in November.  She will share what it is like living in Hungary, being well aware of it being an authoritarian country, as well as the story of her journey, knowledge, and experience around this and how it might relate to what’s happening in America today.  In addition, CWU women will collect school supplies for those children needing them.  For more information, contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-463-3657. 

Next Sunday afternoon:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Elizabeth Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA, has issued a letter to President Donald Trump and members of Congress expressing support of “our Jewish-American and Israeli siblings who have suffered because of the Oct. 7 attacks,” yet voicing “profound horror regarding the catastrophe in Gaza and the wider crisis in the Holy Land.”
“The lives of 2.1 million Palestinians in Gaza depend in part on the decisions you will make in the coming weeks and months,” Eaton wrote.
“For the love of God, the sake of our shared humanity and the future of our Palestinian siblings of all faiths, your swift action may be the best and perhaps only way to stop the Israeli government from continuing its war and genocide in Gaza, and to plant seeds of peace and well-being for all in the Holy Land.” Link to the full letter is at: https://www.elca.org/

Border Immersion: Hi St. Paul folks, as a member of the Rocky Mountain Synod Global Church Network I would like to encourage you to consider attending the immersion trip to the border that we have planned for November 1 through 7. I have participated in similar immersions and can tell you it is definitely a worthwhile, spiritually challenging experience. During this challenging time in our country when our neighbors are living in fear and uncertainty, we wonder what we can do. Visiting the border and seeing in real time what is happening there is a jumpstart to being allies. It would be great if a small group from St. Paul would attend. Please let me know if you are interested or have questions. See the flyer below.  ~Peace, Terry Cole

Updates Beginning 24 August 2025

Mark Your Calendars! Rally Sunday/God’s Work Our Hands Sunday is 7 Sept. Joint worship with Caminemos Juntos will be followed by a potluck in Fellowship Hall, with the main dish provided. Join us for fun and fellowship! ~Deborah Ash

Save the dates for the next St. Paul 101!  Want to know more about St. Paul (our congregation), our denomination (the Evangelical Church in America), and Christianity as a whole?  Want to meet more people in our faith community and get connected?  Then St. Paul 101 is for you!  The next St. Paul 101 classes are scheduled for 21 & 28 September.  We'll meet in the Fellowship Hall after worship for about an hour and a half.  Be sure to bring your coffee & goodies with you, as well as your curiosities and questions.  Looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Pr. Koppel

Are you missing the hat making? Some have said they are missing making hats. We have a new project opportunity that will continue September through October. Calico Butterfly has about 38 children enrolled and 17 adults. Of the children, 20 are infants (good for the small loom in our kit), 17 are ages 3-5, (perfect for the two smaller looms of our kits!). The winter months are coming and to have a basket of hats for the children to select for winter would be a sweet treat. We still have lots of the thin yarns in the church stash that when doubled make a lovely, warm hat and we have a few looms to loan out. If you are interested in participating in this project, to supply winter hats for our littles, ask me or at the Office how to make a loom hat or tell us if you are making them at home. We will plan on an end date of October 26 for all hats to be in the basket. Thank you in advance for this treasure given! ~Julie Ambrogi

Adopted Families Update: Since 1991, our St. Paul congregation has participated in a ministry of sharing and its creator was Kay Schoenefeld. With Kay’s death in late July we realize this ministry may evolve, but its spirit remains the same. We invite you to plug into some facet of it. We especially need some strong arms and backs to load our pickup truck when someone has furniture to give away. Here is a brief summary of what has been done in the past:

1.   Receiving and distributing household goods: requires strength ( we have the moving vehicle)
2.   Handling requests from calls made to St. Paul for help: vetting authenticity of request
3.   Coordinating with Healthcare for the Homeless to purchase bus tickets
4.   Adopted Families Christmas tree: organization of process for month long collection of gifts followed by distribution
5.   Regular article in church bulletin to share activities that have happened

If you want more information or a way to participate, call me at 505-897-4916 (home). ~Thank you, Paula Eglinton

First Tuesday: Jan B. asked me to explain what First Tuesday is as some folks were not around to read the reminders about this social gathering. Everyone, members of the congregation, friends of the congregation, extended family members, etc. are invited to come. We have no agenda except to catch up on what is new in our lives. You might think we could do that on Sunday morning but as soon as we leave the sanctuary, we scatter off to class, meetings, etc. Sometimes the best we can do is just wave to each other across a room.
          So, the next first Tuesday of a month will be September 2nd. We will meet at Bow & Arrow Brewery, 602 McKnight NW, between 4:00 - 6:00pm. You are welcome to bring a snack to share. We received mixed reviews on our first visit there in August so we will stay there for a few more months and then see if we want to change. ~Nancy Matthews

Sabbatical ponderings:  What would it look like to do more ministry together? Of the 8 ELCA churches in the Albuquerque/Rio Rancho area, none of us are full on Sunday mornings.  However, we all have our own clergy, our own administrative and music staff, and our own buildings (though many of us are struggling with the affordability of all of this).  Let me just name that Spirit's work is not hindered, amazing ministry is happening!  At the same time, to be rather blunt, I believe we are being terrible stewards of our finances.  Or put in a more positive way, we could be so much more creative!  And that's where the bolded question above comes into play.  While I don't know where this will lead or if it will produce anything at all, I do feel at the very least, it is worth reaching out to our partners and facilitating conversation.  Interested in being a part of this?  Let's chat!  ~Pr. Koppel

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Office Equipment Update:  The Lanier copier and folding machine will be picked up by Eco Recyclers tomorrow. We can no longer purchase ink or other equipment for that copier as it is outdated, and our Toshiba printer has folding capacity. We will be looking for a prep-type table for that area of the kitchen. If you would like to learn how to use the Toshiba printer, please stop by the Office on a weekday and staff will be glad to show you! ~Jolene Gallegos

Worship and Music Committee. As chair of Worship and Music I would like to lift up several ways you can get more involved in our worship life: 

• We have a Worship and Music Committee that currently meets in the conference room the first Thursday of each month at 2 pm. We are always looking for new members and would certainly adjust our meeting time for anyone wanting to be on the committee if necessary. 

• Visual Choir is a subcommittee of W & M that plans all visual enhancements to worship such as banners, seasonal decorations and the like. If you are interested in this please contact Jo Browning. 

• Communion Assistants help serve the communion (usually the wine and juice) along with the presiding minister and assisting minister. 

• Assisting Ministers assist with leading the worship, including the kyrie, prayers, and serving communion.

• Our current schedule ends on August 31. I am in the process of creating the next schedule which will run until the end of the year. 

• We would love to have more assisting ministers and communion assistants. Communion assistants serve around 4-5 times per schedule and assisting ministers around 2-3. Training is available for both. Please let me know if you are interested. ~Peace, Terry Cole

August’s God’s Work Our Hands project is gathering diapers for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept 15-21), the Rocky Mountain Synod Women’s Organization’s Fall Gathering project. Here in Albuquerque, the diapers will be delivered to the Junior League of ABQ Diaper Bank. You can place your donations in the bin in the Welcome Center or bring them to the office. It is exciting that this is occurring throughout the Synod benefiting local organizations. Thank you for all we have received to date! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins (Secretary, RMSWO)

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

My Trip To New York, Gabriel Rabezanany, May 2025:
Day 1: We took the High Line which is a park in New York City that is 1.45 miles long. We saw a bunch of cool skyscrapers all with different designs. Afterwards another group from Texas came, they were going to be with us for the rest of the week. Then for lunch we went around the Rockefeller Plaza and found some places to eat. Afterwards we explored midtown and visited places like Grand Central Terminal, Fifth Avenue, The Rockefeller Center, and the New York Public Library. After that we ate dinner and went to the top of the Empire State Building and took pictures. Many people stuck their heads out of the fence on the balcony of the 86th floor to look down. We then went to bed.

Day 2: We took a cruise around the Statue of Liberty and visited many places in New York such as Chinatown, Greenwich Village, Little Italy and SoHo (South Houston). After walking around and visiting these places we went to the Harry Potter store and got some souvenirs since there isn’t one in New Mexico. Towards the end of the day we saw a play called ‘Boop! The Musical.’

Day 3: Today we went on a tour of Lincoln Center and visited the David Geffen Hall, David H. Koch Theatre, and the Metropolitan Opera House. Afterwards we ate lunch and went to the Drama Book Shop which has music, scripts, and books all related to theater. Afterwards we took a tour of the Radio City Music Hall which is one of the biggest Theatres in the world, there we met one of the Rockettes which is a group of dancers that dance in perfect sync and perform at the Christmas Special every single year since 1925. Radio City Music Hall is also where many popular events take place such as the Tony Awards and America's Got Talent.  Afterwards we went to St. Patrick's Cathedral which is a massive church. For dinner we went to a restaurant called Schnippers before going to Times Square and exploring the shops and other places.

Day 4: On day 4 we met two Broadway professionals and they did some activities with us. They were also actors in the play that we would be seeing later which was ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.’ Afterwards we walked through Central Park while we were on our way to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. We ate dinner in Times Square before seeing the play ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Day 5: The final day was much shorter than the other days since we had to leave for the airport to go home. We toured the Financial District where we went to Wall Street and saw the Charging bull sculpture, Federal Hall, Trinity Church, and the 9/11 Museum. Afterwards we ate lunch at a park near the 9/11 memorial before getting on the plane and driving home.

Fun Fact: The names on the 9/11 memorial aren't placed in a random order. For the people on the planes, if you sat next to another person on the plane, your name would be next to them on the memorial. If you were in the buildings, and you shared an office with another person your names would be on the memorial together. On top of that, if it is your birthday, a white rose is put next to your name on the memorial.

Once again, thank you to everyone who donated to me and prayed for me on my trip, I greatly appreciate your gratitude and generosity!

Tickets available at www. Eventbrite.com

From Local Partner Organizations

APS Education Foundation Golf Tournament, Wednesday, August 28, Santa Ana Golf Club. We are excited to host our annual Superintendent’s Cup Golf Tournament! This fun-filled event will feature raffles, a golf ball drop, player drawings, and more—all to raise funds for APS students and staff. We are seeking:

• Prize donations (items or gift cards)

• In-kind donations

• Volunteers to help during the event

All proceeds support our upcoming Grant Cycle, funding innovative programs, student clubs, classroom projects, professional development, and more. Last year, we raised over $700,000 for grants and scholarships—let’s make this year even bigger!
          For more information or to get involved, contact Rado Josoa, Development & Marketing Manager, cell :505-305-8054, email: rado.josoa@aps.edu.

Church Women United: World Community Day, September 5, 9:30am. Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s fellowship, will gather for their World Community Day celebration on Friday, September 5th at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 6901 Wyoming NE.  The morning will begin at 9:30 a.m. with coffee fellowship, followed by the program at 10:00.  Rev. Anne Morawski will be our featured speaker.  She was the Lutheran Campus Pastor at UNM/CNM for 15 years.  Since her retirement in 2017, she has been volunteering  with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Budapest, Hungary.  She is “home” now but has plans to return to Hungary in November.  She will share what it is like living in Hungary, being well aware of it being an authoritarian country, as well as the story of her journey, knowledge, and experience around this and how it might relate to what’s happening in America today.  In addition, CWU women will collect school supplies for those children needing them.  For more information, contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-463-3657.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

August Greetings from the Bishop: Bishop Meghan sends warm greetings this August, along with updates from the recent Churchwide Assembly and a preview of what’s ahead this fall in the Rocky Mountain Synod. View at: https://vimeo.com/1111427278

Retreat in a Box. Imagine the guidance of a discernment retreat delivered right to your mailbox. With “Retreat in a Box,” we’ve created a way for you to experience the reflection and clarity of a personal retreat without leaving home. Through our thoughtfully chosen devotional practices, reflection prompts, and meaningful artifacts you will explore questions of discernment and vocation on your own time, at your pace, and in your own place. Request a Box for you or a loved one to encourage them in their discernment journey. https://elcaseminaries.org/dis%C2%B7cern%C2%B7ment-noun/retreat-in-a-box/

Border Immersion: Hi St. Paul folks, as a member of the Rocky Mountain Synod Global Church Network I would like to encourage you to consider attending the immersion trip to the border that we have planned for November 1 through 7. I have participated in similar immersions and can tell you it is definitely a worthwhile, spiritually challenging experience. During this challenging time in our country when our neighbors are living in fear and uncertainty, we wonder what we can do. Visiting the border and seeing in real time what is happening there is a jumpstart to being allies. It would be great if a small group from St. Paul would attend. Please let me know if you are interested or have questions. See the flyer below.  ~Peace, Terry Cole

Updates Beginning 17 August 2025 

Mark Your Calendars! Rally Sunday/God’s Work Our Hands Sunday is 7 Sept. Joint worship with Caminemos Juntos will be followed by a potluck in Fellowship Hall, with the main dish provided. Join us for fun and fellowship! ~Deborah Ash

Worship and Music Committee. As chair of Worship and Music I would like to lift up several ways you can get more involved in our worship life: 

• We have a Worship and Music Committee that currently meets in the conference room the first Thursday of each month at 2 pm. We are always looking for new members and would certainly adjust our meeting time for anyone wanting to be on the committee if necessary. 

• Visual Choir is a subcommittee of W & M that plans all visual enhancements to worship such as banners, seasonal decorations and the like. If you are interested in this please contact Jo Browning. 

• Communion Assistants help serve the communion (usually the wine and juice) along with the presiding minister and assisting minister. 

• Assisting Ministers assist with leading the worship, including the kyrie, prayers, and serving communion.

• Our current schedule ends on August 31. I am in the process of creating the next schedule which will run until the end of the year. 

• We would love to have more assisting ministers and communion assistants. Communion assistants serve around 4-5 times per schedule and assisting ministers around 2-3. Training is available for both. Please let me know if you are interested. ~Peace, Terry Cole

August’s God’s Work Our Hands project is gathering diapers for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept 15-21), the Rocky Mountain Synod Women’s Organization’s Fall Gathering project. Here in Albuquerque, the diapers will be delivered to the Junior League of ABQ Diaper Bank. You can place your donations in the bin in the Welcome Center or bring them to the office. It is exciting that this is occurring throughout the Synod benefiting local organizations. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins (Secretary, RMSWO)

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Friends Feeding Friends: Thank you all for the food and giving so we could furnish the August meal at HopeWorks. We had 23 pans of spaghetti and meat sauce as well as salad, tomatoes, dressing, bread, parmesan cheese, cookies, fruit, and drinks. They were very excited to see the food in my car. I am so thankful to all of you for all you do to support this ministry! If you would like to join this ministry, contact me at njenkins12@comcast.net ~Nancy Jenkins

Mowing Volunteers: Thank you to the three members who have volunteered to help with mowing! We are still looking for one more volunteer, so that the task can be shared and allow for flexibility in scheduling. Please reach out if you can help: facilities@stpaulabq.org or 505-242-5942. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

Thank You’s to St. Paul:
Pastor, Deb, and the entire St. Paul Church, we are so grateful for your love of our mother and for faithfully loving her until the Lord called her home. Bless you and thank you! Marlys Weinhold’s Family

Thank you for your generous gift of $605 to the Storehouse New Mexico. Your support is deeply appreciated, especially during a time when the need in our community has reached unprecedented levels. Your support of the Storehouse continues to make a huge difference for our families. We are so grateful. Sincerely, Amy Lavender, VP of Development.

From Local Partner Organizations

APS Education Foundation Golf Tournament, Wednesday, August 28, Santa Ana Golf Club. We are excited to host our annual Superintendent’s Cup Golf Tournament! This fun-filled event will feature raffles, a golf ball drop, player drawings, and more—all to raise funds for APS students and staff. We are seeking:

• Prize donations (items or gift cards)

• In-kind donations

• Volunteers to help during the event

All proceeds support our upcoming Grant Cycle, funding innovative programs, student clubs, classroom projects, professional development, and more.
          Last year, we raised over $700,000 for grants and scholarships—let’s make this year even bigger!
          For more information or to get involved, contact Rado Josoa, Development & Marketing Manager, cell :505-305-8054, email: rado.josoa@aps.edu.

Church Women United: World Community Day, September 5, 9:30am. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 6901 Wyoming NE. The speaker is Rev. Anne Morawski. Many of you remember her as an active participant in CWU in the past. Anne was the Lutheran Campus Pastor at UNM/CNM for 15 years. She has been volunteering with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary since her retirement in 2017. Anne currently serves the English Lutheran Ministry in Budapest.
          We start with coffee hour first at 9:30 while everyone registers and gets a name tag.  Then at 10am we will move into the sanctuary for worship and the reflection/sermon/presentation. Everything should be finished by about 11:15.
          The theme for this year is "Be Kind at All Times" based on Ephesians 4:32: “Be generous to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you.”

Grand Opening: New Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity Donation Drop-off Center. Come one, come all, August 23rd from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We will have a ribbon cutting ceremony with VIP’s, balloons for the kids and a food truck. Receive a 10% off at our ReStore coupon for all donations received.
          Located at: GAHH Rio Rancho Donation Center, 1525 Stephanie Road SE, Unit 207, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Our new Donation Center will be open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We will have a worker on-site during business hours.
          Bring your gently used household items, construction supplies, tools, windows and doors, flooring, etc. to our new Donation Drop-off Center to be sold at our Menaul ReStore. Proceeds from these purchases support our various programs including New Construction, Preservation Repair and Critical Systems Replacement.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Gathering at the Gate is an opportunity Sept. 16-17, 2025 for ELCA leaders, rostered and lay, to demand God's justice, grace and mercy from our elected leaders in Washington D.C. for our neighbors who are hungry, sick, and poor. We will engage in advocacy learning from the ELCA Advocacy Office, meet with our members of Congress, and participate in the Empty Plates, Empty Promises action on Sept. 17, in the Upper Senate Park where we will stand in solidarity together with all people who need food, housing, healthcare and ethical immigration policy. Learn more and register at: https://gatheringatthegate.betterworld.org/events/april-2025

World Humanitarian Day is this Tuesday, August 19th. Lutheran World Relief is celebrating Tamara Demuria, our Chief Humanitarian Officer who has been braving the front lines in Ukraine. Since the war began in 2022, you have been there with her, delivering emergency aid to children and their families who are terrified and desperately hoping this relentless war will end. Despite years of suffering, humanitarians like Tamara have remained alongside your neighbors in Ukraine. Show our humanitarian workers you're by their side as we honor them this month: https://lwr.org/

This Tuesday, August 19th, 6pm MT,  ELCA World Hunger & Food Ministry Teams join in conversation and conspiring with Creation Care folks! Does it feel like “there are too many things to care about” right now? Those with power try to divide and conquer, making us fight for time, attention and resources for “our” social justice issue against “other” social justice issues. But it’s a made up fight. We get stronger together!
          This call will integrate a Lutherans Restoring Creation “Connection Call” with ELCA World Hunger leaders, some of whom are gathering soon to revitalize their efforts to “do justice, love kindness, and [move] humbly with our God.” (Micah 6:8) We’ll meet people who work for justice across multiple sectors and manifestations: migrant, economic, racial, gender or environmental (MERGE). We’ll ask each other what we’re seeing in our communities and how we can work together for a world aligned with God’s just, kind vision. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ntXbuzE5SFqP7IMU4fbFMA#/registration

Border Immersion: Hi St. Paul folks, as a member of the Rocky Mountain Synod Global Church Network I would like to encourage you to consider attending the immersion trip to the border that we have planned for November 1 through 7. I have participated in similar immersions and can tell you it is definitely a worthwhile, spiritually challenging experience. During this challenging time in our country when our neighbors are living in fear and uncertainty, we wonder what we can do. Visiting the border and seeing in real time what is happening there is a jumpstart to being allies. It would be great if a small group from St. Paul would attend. Please let me know if you are interested or have questions. See the flyer below.  ~Peace, Terry Cole

Updates Beginning 10 August 2025 

Margo Nicholson’s Celebration of Life will be held at St. Paul this Tuesday, 12 August at 11am, with a reception following in Fellowship Hall. ~Pr. Koppel

Mark Your Calendars! Rally Sunday/God’s Work Our Hands Sunday is 7 Sept. Joint worship with Caminemos Juntos will be followed by a potluck in Fellowship Hall, with the main dish provided. Join us for fun and fellowship! ~Deborah Ash

Dignity Mission Thank You: A note of thanks came from Jack and Cheryl Ferrel who represented Dignity Mission on our Hat Sunday – they write:

“… thank you for sharing your beautiful, knitted hats for Dignity Mission. Knowing the warmth you bring and the loving support are such a blessing. The absolutely extraordinary way you presented was so clever and thoughtful. We are beyond grateful for your time and effort in this project which will bring warmth, hope and dignity to our brothers and sisters.“
          Thank you for all the ways you contributed, participated and helped to make this project  a congregation project. Watch for further ideas and ways to continue to offer “hat warmth.” St. Paul Sabbatical Team: Pastor Van de Motter, Pastor Koppel, Hal Neilsen, Julie Ambrogi, Sara Love, Deb Ash.

August’s God’s Work Our Hands project is gathering diapers for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept 15-21), the Rocky Mountain Synod Women’s Organization’s Fall Gathering project. Here in Albuquerque, the diapers will be delivered to the Junior League of ABQ Diaper Bank. You can place your donations in the bin in the Welcome Center or bring them to the office. It is exciting that this is occurring throughout the Synod benefiting local organizations. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins (Secretary, RMSWO)

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Mowing Volunteers: Thank you to the three members who have volunteered to help with mowing! We are still looking for one more volunteer, so that the task can be shared and allow for flexibility in scheduling. Please reach out if you can help: facilities@stpaulabq.org or 505-242-5942. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

A Thank You to St. Paul’s Sewing Group:
On behalf of the Albuquerque-NM VA HCS (501) patients and staff, we would like to extend our appreciation to you for your donation of 12 lap robes.
          It is through the efforts of community partners like you that allow us to continue the quality care and services that we seek to provide for our deserving Veterans. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you again for future events.
          Thank you for your continued support and advocacy. Sincerely, Karla Mcghan Barthel, Chief, Center for Development and Civic Engagement

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Lutheran Summer Music Academy: The majority of LSM concerts, recitals, and services were all professionally livestreamed and are now available to view at any time through LSMacademy.org/on-demand. Student performances and musical offerings during Festival Week include:

    Bach Cantata Eucharist
    Chamber Music Extravaganza
    Festival of Hymns
    Musical Theatre Showcase
    Festival Band Concert
    Jazz Ensemble Concert
    Festival Choir Concert
    Festival Orchestra Concert
    Closing Festival Eucharist

At Global Refuge, our mission is to stand with and advocate for immigrants and refugees. But what does it really mean to advocate?
          We know that behind every immigration policy debate, there are thousands of people in the United States and beyond whose lives will be affected. The Global Refuge Advocacy and Policy team lives out our mission by engaging with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, encouraging participation in state, local, and national government, and shaping and promoting humane policy for immigration and refugee resettlement in the United States.
          But we can't do it alone. That's why we work to encourage and empower supporters like you to raise your voices and ensure that your lawmakers know why you support the work of welcome.
          Learn more about the team and how you can get involved! Watch the video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yvy-hwHQoRQ

From ELCA AMMPARO & Global Refuge: Faith Groups File New Lawsuit on Protecting Sensitive Locations: On July 28, Democracy Forward and co-counsel filed a lawsuit on behalf of a large coalition of faith groups that challenges the Administration’s sweeping policy that allows immigration enforcement actions in and around houses of worship and other “sensitive locations.” Plaintiffs in the case include members of the Lutheran, Protestant, Baptist, and Quaker faiths. Read the press release at: https://www.gilbertlegal.com/news/religious-groups-sue-trump-vance-administration-over-immigration-raids-at-houses-of-worship/
[Note: 5 ELCA Synods are part of this.]
          Global Refuge has endorsed the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act, introduced in the House and Senate, which would codify guidance on limiting enforcement in and near sensitive locations.

Through August 15, every Bread for the World gift you make up to $173,000 will be tripled! That means your generosity will go 3X as far to advocate for life-saving food programs for millions of people experiencing hunger in the U.S. and around the world.
          Earlier this year, our collective voice was able to secure $500 million to fund WIC for the rest of this fiscal year. WIC provides vital nutrition assistance to low-income women and infants. And despite the devastating closing of USAID, together we were able to get the Administration to set aside $100 million for the International Development Commission.
          Our work is far from done. No matter the obstacles, we will continue to advocate for an end to hunger. We are called to this work and to have faith that it will make a difference. And thanks to this limited-time match, your gift will go even further — helping us engage lawmakers, rally faith communities, and create meaningful, lasting change.
          Every dollar matters. And when we come together, we can make sure no one is left behind. Give at: bread.org 

2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly: The playlist of 42 videos capturing events throughout the Assembly is found at:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNDmVwhz-M37Gdl_V2jXSZ2e2E-I_LPBK

Updates Beginning 3 August 2025 

Today: We welcome Pastor Koppel back with a coffee hour hosted by the Sabbatical Team after worship. Please join us! ~Deborah Ash

This Tuesday, 5 August: Must all good things come to an end?  Our friends at SW Grape and Grain are closing up shop this weekend at the Candelaria location and can only afford to move the brewing supplies to a new site at this time.  Hopefully, they will soon be able to start up a little brewery at the new location.
          So, for the August gathering, Terry Cole suggested we try Bow & Arrow at 602 McKnight Ave NW.  The tap room looks great but there are only approximately 6 parking spots on the property.  We'll meet at the usual time, 4:00 - 6:00 pm.  Bring your snacks!

Margo Nicholson’s Celebration of Life will be held at St. Paul on Tuesday, 12 August at 11am, with a reception following in Fellowship Hall. ~Pr. Koppel 

August’s God’s Work Our Hands project is gathering diapers for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept 15-21), the Rocky Mountain Synod Women’s Organization’s Fall Gathering project. Here in Albuquerque, the diapers will be delivered to the Junior League of ABQ Diaper Bank. You can place your donations in the bin in the Welcome Center or bring them to the office. It is exciting that this is occurring throughout the Synod benefiting local organizations. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins (Secretary, RMSWO)

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

Mowing Volunteers: Thank you to the three members who have volunteered to help with mowing! We are still looking for one more volunteer, so that the task can be shared and allow for flexibility in scheduling. Please reach out if you can help: facilities@stpaulabq.org or 505-242-5942. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Announcing Rev. Yehiel Curry, Presiding Bishop of the ELCA!

We are pleased to announce the election of the Rev. Yehiel Curry as presiding bishop of the ELCA! Bishop-elect Curry was elected on the fifth ballot with 70.34% of the vote.
Bishop Curry was elected in 2019 to a six-year term as bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod. Earlier this year the Conference of Bishops elected him as chair. Among his many responsibilities in the synod is to preach, teach and administer the sacraments. He ordains, installs, and provides pastoral care for this synod’s rostered ministers of Word and Sacrament and Word and Service, and for our 165 congregations. Bishop Curry leads the process for resolution of controversies and the discipline of rostered ministers and congregations. In addition to interpreting and advocating the mission and theology of this church, he fosters an awareness of, and engagement with, churches throughout the Lutheran world communion and Christian leaders within our synod.
Prior to this call, he served as pastor and mission developer of Shekinah Chapel Lutheran Church in Chicago. He received his BA from Lewis University in Romeoville, Ill., and his MDiv from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. He and his wife, LaShonda, are the parents of three daughters.
      Service: From 2013-2019, Bishop Curry served as pastor of Shekinah Chapel Lutheran Church, where he also served as mission developer from 2007 to 2012.
          Education: Bishop Curry received a Bachelor of Arts from Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois in 1995, and a Master of Divinity from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago in 2013.

Updates Beginning 27 July 2025

Today: Join us after worship today for the coffee hour hosted by the Sabbatical Team, as we thank Pastor Van De Motter for his 3 months of service with us. We welcome Cheryl and Jack Ferrell from Dignity Mission, who will be accepting the hats made by St. Paul as our Sabbatical project during this time. ~Deborah Ash

Next Sunday: We welcome Pastor Koppel back with a coffee hour hosted by the Sabbatical Team after worship. Her birthday is coming up. Please take a moment to sign the birthday card for her in the Welcome Center. ~Deborah Ash

This Thursday, July 31st: You are invited to Calico Butterfly Preschool’s Annual Picnic, 5:30-7pm.

Margo Nicholson’s Celebration of Life will be held at St. Paul on Tuesday, 12 August at 11am, with a reception following in Fellowship Hall. ~Pr. Van De Motter

GoFundMe Page: Pastor Van De Motter’s niece’s son, Callen, 15 months, has been diagnosed with leukemia. The family has created a GoFundMe page. Visit https://www.gofundme.com and search for Klingler. ~Deborah Ash

Deadline Tomorrow: St. Paul Fall Semester 2025 Scholarship Applications. Applications for St. Paul scholarships administered by the St. Paul Scholarship Committee for the benefit of members of St. Paul will be available beginning July 6, 2025 for those who wish to apply.
Application forms may be downloaded from the St. Paul website, www.stpaulabq.org, or picked up in-person at St. Paul Lutheran Church Office. Completed applications must be received by mail in the St. Paul church office not later than 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025 (or sent by the same deadline in PDF format to info@stpaulabq.org).
The St. Paul Endowed Scholarship fund is comprised of donations from the Meuli and Mutschmann families and includes additional funding from the Voida family. Available funds for this year will be dispersed by the scholarship committee according to the number of qualified applicants. The Olson Scholarship is available only to those members attending a Lutheran or Baptist college or seminary; the amount of this specific category of scholarships will be granted to qualifying students according to available funds.
For more information please contact me at omardurant@yahoo.com. Thank you. ~Omar Durant

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

From Council: Last month Council approved the latest version of the ICE guidelines. It gives information on public and private areas of the church and what to do if law enforcement, ICE or media agents are on the campus.  These agencies are not allowed to enter any areas marked PRIVATE.  There are posted signs in all areas.  The guidelines are posted on the website and in the office.  Staff, congregants and users of the facility will be instructed about Know Your Rights, use of this guideline and the report forms.  We will covenant to maintain confidentiality regarding the documentation status of staff, congregation members, preschool students and families and the neighbors we serve.  Do not prop open exterior doors unless someone stays by the door.
          This is a short summary of the guideline; copies are available in the Welcome Center.  Please become familiar with it, be aware of people around and be safe. ~Nancy Jenkins, Secretary

Our Congregational Project during the time of Sabbatical growing has been to make hats to be given out in the cold months of winter to children, moms, dads, and anyone needing warmth. Our congregation has worked together to use yarn, give time, learn a new project, donate to the cause through materials and/or money to make this project a great success. These hats come from our congregation and outside our congregation by people who just wanted to participate in the mission we chose to commit. From Montana, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, from vacations, from lazy summer days, from family and friends who do not know us but wanted to share, we say thank you, thank you, thank you.
          Over 250 hats, in four sizes for infants through large adults, knitted and crocheted, will be donated to Dignity Mission. Two weeks ago, 12 of our hats went with the donation group to the border to support their 44th trip of donations. This humanitarian support is going to shelters like Casa del Migrante and Resoettrabs in Juarez where migrant families are being housed. Our hats will be transported for sharing in the fall.
          Thank you to the St. Paul Congregation for their support and for the joy that is found in color, size, and warmth that each hat will bring. God’s Work, Our Hands is a mighty way to reach beyond our walls and into the need that lives close to all of us. Blessings and prayers continue that each stitch gives hope and that together, as people of faith, we hold dear that we share love with our neighbors near and far.
         This project can continue as members desire, yarn and looms are available. Hats to be passed out on the streets of Albuquerque during the winter months will be appreciated. The Sabbatical Team: Hal Nilsson, Deb Ash, Pr. Patrick Van de Motter, Pr. Kristi Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, and Sara Love

Mowing Volunteers: Thank you to the two members who have volunteered to help with mowing! We are still looking for a few more, so that the task can be shared and allow for flexibility in scheduling. Please reach out if you can help: facilities@stpaulabq.org or 505-242-5942. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

August’s God’s Work Our Hands project is gathering diapers for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept 15-21), the Rocky Mountain Synod Women’s Organization’s Fall Gathering project. Here in Albuquerque, the diapers will be delivered to the Junior League of ABQ Diaper Bank. You can place your donations in the bin in the Welcome Center or bring them to the office. It is exciting that this is occurring throughout the Synod benefiting local organizations. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins (Secretary, RMSWO)

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

This Tuesday, registration still open:

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

This week, a faithful group of twelve from our Rocky Mountain Synod will join 845 voting members of the ELCA in Phoenix, AZ, for the Churchwide Assembly—“For the Life of the World.” Rooted in worship and prayer, the assembly will:

• Elect a new Presiding Bishop and Secretary

• Consider a new social statement on Civic Life and Faith, plus editorial changes to the Social Statement, Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust

• Examine proposed Churchwide budgets for the next three years

• Receive the report and recommendations from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church

• Discuss and vote on memorials from synod assemblies—like the Rocky Mountain Synod’s memorial, Stand up for Human Rights, an End to the Occupation of Palestine, and Recognition of Palestinian Statehood, passed by our Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly in May 2025 in Albuquerque, NM.

We appreciate your prayers for our synod delegation and the assembly as a whole! For candidate info, agenda details, and a livestream of the event, visit elca.org/cwa.

Your support for Bread for the World has been critical so far this year — and we wanted to share where we stand at this halfway point in 2025.
          Thanks to you, our collective advocacy is making a difference. Together, we’ve worked alongside communities experiencing hunger and urged policymakers to take meaningful action, despite many challenges.
          Your actions, words and prayers have made a huge impact! Since the beginning of January, Bread advocates have taken 25,663 actions to help end hunger. These actions have resulted in 53,246 letters to Congress.
          Your voice and generosity are driving this progress — and together, we’re building momentum for what’s ahead.
Thank you for joining us in this movement to end hunger. We’ll continue to share more news in the months to come.
With gratitude, Justice H. Randolph, Deputy Director of Membership Giving, bread.org

Updates Beginning 20 July 2025

Margo Nicholson’s Celebration of Life will be held at St. Paul on Tuesday, 12 August at 11am, with a reception following in Fellowship Hall. ~Pr. Van De Motter

Bruce Muggenburg, a long-time member of St. Paul, passed away on June 24th  at the age of 88. Graveside services will be private. See the full obituary at www.frenchfunerals.com. ~Deborah Ash

GoFundMe Page: Pastor Van De Motter’s niece’s son, Callen, 15 months, has been diagnosed with leukemia. The family has created a GoFundMe page. Visit https://www.gofundme.com and search for Klingler. (Support for 15-Month-Old's Leukemia Battle.) ~Deborah Ash

Deadline Next Week: St. Paul Fall Semester 2025 Scholarship Applications. Applications for St. Paul scholarships administered by the St. Paul Scholarship Committee for the benefit of members of St. Paul will be available beginning July 6, 2025 for those who wish to apply.
Application forms may be downloaded from the St. Paul website, www.stpaulabq.org. Completed applications must be received by mail in the St. Paul church office not later than 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025 (or sent by the same deadline in PDF format to info@stpaulabq.org).
The St. Paul Endowed Scholarship fund is comprised of donations from the Meuli and Mutschmann families and includes additional funding from the Voida family. Available funds for this year will be dispersed by the scholarship committee according to the number of qualified applicants. The Olson Scholarship is available only to those members attending a Lutheran or Baptist college or seminary; the amount of this specific category of scholarships will be granted to qualifying students according to available funds.
Applications will be available from St. Paul website beginning July 6, 2025 or in-person at St. Paul Lutheran Church Office. For more information please contact me at omardurant@yahoo.com. Thank you. ~Omar Durant

From Council: Last month Council approved the latest version of the ICE guidelines. It gives information on public and private areas of the church and what to do if law enforcement, ICE or media agents are on the campus.  These agencies are not allowed to enter any areas marked PRIVATE.  There are posted signs in all areas.  The guidelines are posted on the website and in the office.  Staff, congregants and users of the facility will be instructed about Know Your Rights, use of this guideline and the report forms.  We will covenant to maintain confidentiality regarding the documentation status of staff, congregation members, preschool students and families and the neighbors we serve.  Do not prop open exterior doors unless someone stays by the door.
          This is a short summary of the guideline; copies are available in the Welcome Center.  Please become familiar with it, be aware of people around and be safe. ~Nancy Jenkins, Secretary

Our Congregational Project during the time of Sabbatical growing has been to make hats to be given out in the cold months of winter to children, moms, dads, and anyone needing warmth. Our congregation has worked together to use yarn, give time, learn a new project, donate to the cause through materials and/or money to make this project a great success. These hats come from our congregation and outside our congregation by people who just wanted to participate in the mission we chose to commit. From Montana, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, from vacations, from lazy summer days, from family and friends who do not know us but wanted to share, we say thank you, thank you, thank you.
          Over 250 hats, in four sizes for infants through large adults, knitted and crocheted, will be donated to Dignity Mission. Two weeks ago, 12 of our hats went with the donation group to the border to support their 44th trip of donations. This humanitarian support is going to shelters like Casa del Migrante and Resoettrabs in Juarez where migrant families are being housed. Our hats will be transported for sharing in the fall.
          Thank you to the St. Paul Congregation for their support and for the joy that is found in color, size, and warmth that each hat will bring. God’s Work, Our Hands is a mighty way to reach beyond our walls and into the need that lives close to all of us. Blessings and prayers continue that each stitch gives hope and that together, as people of faith, we hold dear that we share love with our neighbors near and far.
          This project can continue as members desire, yarn and looms are available. Hats to be passed out on the streets of Albuquerque during the winter months will be appreciated. The Sabbatical Team: Hal Nilsson, Deb Ash, Pr. Patrick Van de Motter, Pr. Kristi Koppel, Julie Ambrogi, and Sara Love

Adopted Families: We recently helped two folks in need. A man called St. Paul needing help with a gas bill. There had been a lot of costs involved with the passing away of a close relative, plus the man was still helping his grandmother. He was very grateful when we paid his $190 bill. In the second case, a woman needed help with her PNM bill to avoid being disconnected. She had lost her previous job (which didn't pay enough to cover her bills) because her employer cut her hours and let her go instead of working things out. She is doing paper work for a new job but that takes time. She also has a daughter about to give birth. She was in tears when we paid $250 toward her entire PNM bill. Thank you for helping to ease the burdens in other people's lives. ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Reminder re Parking Lot: Bradbury Stamm, the construction company working on the UNM Cancer Center project next door, is leasing additional parking spaces weekdays through September 15. These are along the east side of the church, from the choir room door up to the blue curbs. We are waiting for that stretch of curb to be painted green. On weekdays, please drive around to the parking spaces on the south side by the labyrinth. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Jolene Gallegos

Mowing Volunteers: Thank you to the two members who have volunteered to help with mowing! We are still looking for a few more, so that the task can be shared and allow for flexibility in scheduling. Please reach out if you can help: facilities@stpaulabq.org or 505-242-5942. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

July’s God’s Work Our Hands project is also the last month of our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. This is our big push toward July 27th, when the hats will be blessed by Pr. Van De Motter on his last Sunday with us! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter
 

From Local Partner Organizations

Today:

We are excited to share a milestone moment with you! This year, HopeWorks marks its 40th anniversary of dedicated service to the homeless community in Albuquerque. Since our inception in 1985, our mission has been to provide essential shelter and supportive services to those in need, and we are proud to celebrate four decades of impactful work.
          Join Us for a Night of Celebration and Support! We cordially invite you to our 40th Anniversary Gala, an evening dedicated to commemorating our achievements and raising funds to continue and expand our efforts.
          The gala will feature heartfelt stories of hope, entertaining performances, and a vibrant display of community spirit. It's a perfect opportunity to see firsthand the impact of your support and to contribute to the future of HopeWorks.
          We look forward to celebrating this significant milestone with you. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of many. Save the date and join us in making this gala a memorable event!
          For more information on sponsorships or ticket sales, please reach out to Mitchie at mbenavidez@hopeworksnm.org.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Prayer Cycle: Each month we pray for the rostered ministers, congregations, and ministries throughout the Rocky Mountain Synod and our Churchwide expression. In July, we pray for the congregations, ministries, and leaders of the North New Mexico Conference.

Check out all that’s happening across our Synod this month! From welcoming new congregations to concerts by emerging musicians and meaningful film screenings, there's a lot of amazing ministry happening. For a complete list of upcoming events across Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico, El Paso, and Colorado visit: https://www.rmselca.org/calendar-list.

How your compassion is helping in Texas. When disaster strikes, we can always count on our generous donors to love your neighbors as Christ. Thanks to your quick compassion, hundreds of families affected by the recent flooding in Texas had emergency supplies in their hands within 12 hours.
          The full scope of the damage is still unknown. What we do know is hundreds of families are in urgent need of basic supplies as they clean up, recover and navigate immense grief and loss.
          In these early days, your compassion is providing Lutheran World Relief Quilts and Kits as well as distributing emergency food, water, tarps, clean up kits, hygiene supplies and clothing to people whose homes were damaged or destroyed.
          LWR and our partners continue to assess needs and — with your generous support — will expand our response as we are able. Give at: https://lwr.org/.

We cannot be silent now. Over the past several months, Bread advocates around the country sent tens of thousands of emails, held hundreds of congressional meetings, and made hundreds more phone calls urging their members of Congress to reject the cuts – but Congress made the cuts anyway, knowing the harm they will bring to their districts and states and knowing how many of their constituents were against them.
If you’re feeling discouraged and dismayed...you’re not alone. I am feeling it, too. Our staff and board are also feeling it. Needless to say, this is a challenging time.
          Though we lament the dramatic cuts to critical anti-hunger programs, this is not the time to back down or give up. We mustn’t give up...because we can’t give up. As you read this message from me, Bread has been actively engaged in critical legislation that Congress is taking up now. We can’t do this work alone. We need you. We need the entire Bread movement to keep advocating.
God has called us to be faithful. So, let’s be faithful. Let’s keep praying, keep writing letters, keep organizing our neighbors, keep advocating to Congress.
          There is a saying: pray every day – and when you’re busy, pray more. We must pray every day – and right now, we must pray more. Let us pray for our leaders, that they will hear the needs of people experiencing hunger. Let us pray for each other, that we may not grow weary in acting to change the circumstances that allow hunger to persist. Let us pray for people experiencing hunger, that they may be fed.
          And as Harriet Tubman once wrote, may we also “pray with our feet.” In other words, let’s pray and speak up, contact, write, call, organize, fund...and persevere.
          By working together, by raising our choir of voices ever louder, we can – and will – address hunger. I hold you in prayer and lift my heart in hope alongside you. Prayerfully, Rev. Eugene Cho, President and CEO

Updates Beginning 13 July 2025

Marlys Weinhold’s Celebration of Life will be held at St. Paul on Saturday, 9 August at 1pm, with a reception following in Fellowship Hall. ~Pr. Van De Motter

Cindy Nicholson has let us know that her mother, Margo, passed away on June 26th, ten days after her 102nd birthday. August services at St. Paul are pending. ~Deborah Ash

Bruce Muggenburg, a long-time member of St. Paul, passed away on June 24th  at the age of 88. Graveside services will be private. See the full obituary at www.frenchfunerals.com. ~Deborah Ash

GoFundMe Page: Pastor Van De Motter’s niece’s son, Callen, 15 months, has been diagnosed with leukemia. The family has created a GoFundMe page. Visit https://www.gofundme.com and search for Klingler. (Support for 15-Month-Old's Leukemia Battle.) ~Deborah Ash

St. Paul Fall Semester 2025 Scholarship Applications: Applications for St. Paul scholarships administered by the St. Paul Scholarship Committee for the benefit of members of St. Paul will be available beginning July 6, 2025 for those who wish to apply.
Application forms may be downloaded from the St. Paul website, www.stpaulabq.org. Completed applications must be received by mail in the St. Paul church office not later than 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025 (or sent by the same deadline in PDF format to info@stpaulabq.org).
The St. Paul Endowed Scholarship fund is comprised of donations from the Meuli and Mutschmann families and includes additional funding from the Voida family. Available funds for this year will be dispersed by the scholarship committee according to the number of qualified applicants. The Olson Scholarship is available only to those members attending a Lutheran or Baptist college or seminary; the amount of this specific category of scholarships will be granted to qualifying students according to available funds.
Applications will be available from St. Paul website beginning July 6, 2025 or in-person at St. Paul Lutheran Church Office. For more information please contact me at omardurant@yahoo.com. ~Thank you.  Omar Durant

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

Parking Lot Update: Bradbury Stamm, the construction company working on the UNM Cancer Center project next door, has begun leasing an additional 19 parking spaces weekdays through September 15. These are along the east side of the church, from the choir room door up to the blue curbs. That stretch of curb will be painted green shortly to indicate it is for their workers’ use. On weekdays, please drive around to the parking spaces on the south side by the labyrinth. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash & Jolene Gallegos

Mowing Volunteers: Dear Congregation! We are searching for some volunteer help for mowing the grass areas at Calico Preschool. After twenty years, Holger Schulz has retired from this position. His hard work has been appreciated over the years. While mowing has been done weekly, it can also be done every other week. The lawn mower is held in a storage closet next to the school downstairs and is an electric mower. We are looking for a volunteer, or volunteers, to continue mowing.  Please reach out: facilities@stpaulabq.org or 505-242-5942. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

July’s God’s Work Our Hands project is also the last month of our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. This is our big push toward July 27th, when the hats will be blessed by Pr. Van De Motter on his last Sunday with us! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

St. Paul Tshirts Are Still Available! If you ordered a shirt, you can pick yours up in the Office. Cost is $25. There are extras in various sizes , so if you didn’t order ahead, you can still purchase one! ~Deborah Ash

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Today: Navajo Code Talkers Presentation July 13. St Luke Lutheran Church has arranged to have Zonnie Gorman come to our church and talk about the Navajo Code Talkers. She is a recognized historian on the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II and has served as a consultant to numerous documentaries, museum exhibitions and magazine and book authors. She is the daughter of the late Dr. Carl Gorman, artist, teacher and one of the original “first twenty-nine” Navajo Code Talkers, the pilot group that devised the initial Navajo code. She is also the youngest sister to the legendary and renowned Navajo artist, the late R.C. Gorman.
          We would like to invite anyone who would be interested in hearing about this subject. Zonnie will be at St Luke’s on Sunday, July 13th at 1:30. We will be meeting in our Fellowship Hall. If you have any questions you can get in touch with me at 505-264-5444. We hope to see you there. ~Diane Quarles

We are excited to share a milestone moment with you! This year, HopeWorks marks its 40th anniversary of dedicated service to the homeless community in Albuquerque. Since our inception in 1985, our mission has been to provide essential shelter and supportive services to those in need, and we are proud to celebrate four decades of impactful work.
          Join Us for a Night of Celebration and Support! We cordially invite you to our 40th Anniversary Gala, an evening dedicated to commemorating our achievements and raising funds to continue and expand our efforts.
          The gala will feature heartfelt stories of hope, entertaining performances, and a vibrant display of community spirit. It's a perfect opportunity to see firsthand the impact of your support and to contribute to the future of HopeWorks.
          We look forward to celebrating this significant milestone with you. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of many. Save the date and join us in making this gala a memorable event!
          For more information on sponsorships or ticket sales, please reach out to Mitchie at mbenavidez@hopeworksnm.org.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

July Greetings from the Bishop: 

Dear siblings in Christ, Blessed July in this season after Pentecost!
          I’ve always found it striking that this stretch of summer is called “Ordinary Time”—even though it’s often filled with extraordinary moments of joy, challenge, and change. I pray this season brings you rest, renewal, and time with loved ones.
          In June, many of our ministries participated in Pride events, including a meaningful screening of Mama Bears hosted by St. Paul, Denver and Rocky Mountain Public Media Center. Thank you to all who shared photos, stories, and the ongoing work of living into our Reconciling in Christ commitments—not just this month, but always.
          My family and I were grateful to travel in June, including a Footsteps of Paul pilgrimage through Greece and Turkey. Plans to attend a wedding in the Holy Land were interrupted by conflict in the region, and while we returned with heavy hearts, I remain thankful for your prayers for peace and justice.
          This week we mourn the devastating flooding in the Texas Hill Country, including the tragic loss of young lives at Camp Mystic. ELCA Disaster Response is at work on the ground—please join me in supporting their efforts, as you are able: https://www.elca.org/our-work/relief-and-development/lutheran-disaster-response/our-impact/us-flooding.
          Meanwhile, our ministry in the Office of the Bishop continues! We are continuing to accompany rostered and lay leaders and congregations in transition, planning ahead for Theological Conference and Synod Assembly, preparing elected synod voting members for Churchwide Assembly, and much more. This month we gave thanks for Pastor Katie Emery at the conclusion of her call as Synod Minister for Transitions and we are grateful for her continued faithful work with Excellence in Leadership. Her ministry has blessed many—including each of us at the Office of the Bishop.
          Our synod council also officially welcomed Ray Ferry as our new Synod Vice President—with gratitude and excitement for his willingness to serve and lead in this role on behalf of our whole synod. Finally, our plans for the future location of the Office of the Bishop have also been developing in exciting and Spirit-led ways—watch this space for an official announcement coming very soon! One thing is certain: in these days, as always, there is no such thing as ordinary time.
          And thanks be to God that Dios está aquí (God is here) in it all—siempre (forever)! ~Bishop Meghan

RMS Prayer Cycle: Each month we pray for the rostered ministers, congregations, and ministries throughout the Rocky Mountain Synod and our Churchwide expression. In July, we pray for the congregations, ministries, and leaders of the North New Mexico Conference.

Check out all that’s happening across our Synod this month! From welcoming new congregations to concerts by emerging musicians and meaningful film screenings, there's a lot of amazing ministry happening. For a complete list of upcoming events across Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico, El Paso, and Colorado visit: https://www.rmselca.org/calendar-list.

At any given moment, there’s a disaster striking somewhere. Right now, it’s in Texas, where violent flash floods are ravaging communities and claiming more lives with each passing day.
          Here’s the good news: Because your love was hard at work before these floods broke out, it took mere hours to get emergency LWR aid into the hands of those who needed it most.
          Whether it’s happening in your own community, halfway across the country, or on the other side of the globe, there are neighbors in crisis who need immediate support.
As people of faith, we can all agree that no one should suffer when we have the calling, resources and knowledge to help. Give at: https://lwr.org/.

From AMMPARO: USAHello has released its newly updated “Multilingual Immigration Guide,” which is now easier to use—with more resources, better filtering, and translations in 9 languages. It brings together resources created specifically for impacted immigrant communities with actionable, plain language, and mobile-friendly information. Already used by over 100,000 people since its launch in November, the guide is updated weekly to help immigrants stay safe and informed.
What’s inside: Latest immigration policy updates, Legal status options, Guidance on raids, detention, and deportation, Know Your Rights info, Help finding legal and local support.
Visit: https://usahello.org/safety/

Right now, millions of migrants around the world long for a place to call home. When you support the ELCA’s accompaniment of migrants (AMMPARO), you walk alongside migrants and refugees all over the world — toward rest, safety and belonging. According to the U.N., over 122 million people worldwide have been driven from their homes. Can we count on your support to help people on the move? Your gift today will be DOUBLED until we reach $50,000: https://give.elca.org/page/78084/donate/1?ea.url.id=3725984&forwarded=true

This Week: At Bread for the World’s July regional meetings, we will bring you up to speed on the stories and impact of this year’s Advocacy Summit and how we can build on it. We will also share an update on critical legislation in Congress and our progress in this year’s Offering of Letters (letter-writing campaign). And we will present strategies and opportunities to maximize our collective advocacy this summer and fall.

Midwest, Southwest, and West Combined Regional Online Meetings
-      Option 1: Wednesday, July 16 at 2:00 p.m. EDT
-      Option 2: Thursday, July 17 at 7:00 p.m. EDT

Register at: https://go.bread.org/page/84757/survey/1?_gl=1*r57shs*_gcl_au*MTkxMzA4MzA4Ni4xNzQ1NTk1MzM1

2025 marks 50 years since Bread for the World was founded — and we’re taking a moment to say thank you.
          What began as a small network of faithful champions has grown into a nationwide, bipartisan movement for change. Since then, supporters like you have initiated more than 6.4 million advocacy actions, helping make hunger a priority for our elected leaders and creating real change for hungry people.
          You can learn more in our newly released Annual Report, which details Bread’s work in 2024. (Posted in Welcome Center or download at: https://www.bread.org/impact-report/).
          And while we have much to celebrate, we also face serious challenges. In 2025, program freezes and deep cuts to critical anti-hunger programs and life-saving assistance have left even more of our neighbors at risk.
          But thanks to your advocacy, Bread has remained present and persistent. We continue to be a trusted voice in the halls of Congress, fighting for policies that provide food, nutrition, and hope for those who need it most.
          With caring people like you standing beside us and fueling our work, we can speak up alongside and on behalf of hungry families everywhere.
          We hope you’ll take a few moments to read the full report as we look to Bread’s next 50 years.
          This isn’t just our story — it’s yours. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or just joined, this moment belongs to you.
          Thank you for your generosity and care as we work together to end hunger.

Updates Beginning 6 July 2025

Today:

Today: Girl Scout Troop 10192, which meets at St. Paul on Saturdays, will be here selling painted pots and plants after worship in the Welcome Center. They are raising money for a trip to Carlsbad Caverns to complete their outdoor adventure and hiking badges. Please stop by to encourage them in their next outdoor adventure! ~Deborah Ash

Mowing Volunteers: Dear Congregation! We are searching for some volunteer help for mowing the grass areas at Calico Preschool. After twenty years, Holger Schulz has retired from this position. His hard work has been appreciated over the years. While mowing has been done weekly, it can also be done every other week. The lawn mower is held in a storage closet next to the school downstairs and is an electric mower. We are looking for a volunteer, or volunteers, to continue mowing.  Please reach out: facilities@stpaulabq.org or 505-242-5942. Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

Cindy Nicholson has let us know that her mother, Margo, passed away on June 26th, ten days after her 102nd birthday. August services at St. Paul are pending. ~Deborah Ash

St. Paul Fall Semester 2025 Scholarship Applications: Applications for St. Paul scholarships administered by the St. Paul Scholarship Committee for the benefit of members of St. Paul will be available beginning July 6, 2025 for those who wish to apply.
Application forms may be downloaded from the St. Paul website, www.stpaulabq.org. Completed applications must be received by mail in the St. Paul church office not later than 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025 (or sent by the same deadline in PDF format to info@stpaulabq.org).
The St. Paul Endowed Scholarship fund is comprised of donations from the Meuli and Mutschmann families and includes additional funding from the Voida family. Available funds for this year will be dispersed by the scholarship committee according to the number of qualified applicants. The Olson Scholarship is available only to those members attending a Lutheran or Baptist college or seminary; the amount of this specific category of scholarships will be granted to qualifying students according to available funds.
Applications will be available from St. Paul website beginning July 6, 2025 or in-person at St. Paul Lutheran Church Office. For more information please contact me at omardurant@yahoo.com. ~Thank you.  Omar Durant

July’s God’s Work Our Hands project is also the last month of our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. This is our big push toward July 27th, when the hats will be blessed by Pr. Van De Motter on his last Sunday with us! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

St. Paul Tshirts Are Still Available! If you ordered a shirt, you can pick yours up in the Office. Cost is $25. There are extras in various sizes , so if you didn’t order ahead, you can still purchase one! ~Deborah Ash

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

From Local Partner Organizations

Next Sunday: Navajo Code Talkers Presentation July 13. St Luke Lutheran Church has arranged to have Zonnie Gorman come to our church and talk about the Navajo Code Talkers. She is a recognized historian on the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II and has served as a consultant to numerous documentaries, museum exhibitions and magazine and book authors. She is the daughter of the late Dr. Carl Gorman, artist, teacher and one of the original “first twenty-nine” Navajo Code Talkers, the pilot group that devised the initial Navajo code. She is also the youngest sister to the legendary and renowned Navajo artist, the late R.C. Gorman.
We would like to invite anyone who would be interested in hearing about this subject. Zonnie will be at St Luke’s on Sunday, July 13th at 1:30. We will be meeting in our Fellowship Hall. If you have any questions you can get in touch with me at 505-264-5444. We hope to see you there. ~Diane Quarles

LFS has moved! We are excited to announce we have moved to a new location. Our new address is 1700 Louisiana Blvd. Ste 240, Albuquerque 87110.  We are centrally located on the South East corner of Louisiana and Constitution (immediately south of I40) in the uptown area. The new location is easily accessible for our clients and allows us to continue to provide services dedicated to helping newcomers rebuild their lives by equipping them to achieve self-sufficiency and fostering integration into their new community in Albuquerque.
          If you haven't had a chance to volunteer with us lately, we continually have a variety of ways you can get involved - contact us at 505.933.7032 to learn more.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

ELCA Bishop Eaton Statement on OBBBA's Passage. Bishop Eaton responds to the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, calling the scope of the bill "generation-defining and life-altering for many, with provisions that will harm the well-being of local communities and the lives of many individuals for decades to come." A copy of the full statement is posted in the Welcome Center. Visit: https://www.elca.org/news-and-events/bishop-eaton-statement-on-obbbas-passage

Next Saturday: RMS Creation Care Team Zoom Discussion on green burial. On Saturday, July 12, the Creation Care team is hosting a discussion on green burial at 10am on Zoom (us02web.zoom.us/j/83008940316).

Our team is already responding, but they need support from compassionate and faithful people like you.
          Families in the flood zone — and beyond — need food, water, shelter and essential supplies. Your gift now will help ensure no one goes without the care and support they need.  We are also preparing quilts and kits to comfort families affected by floods.
God bless you for caring for families affected by disasters here at home and around the world.
To our neighbors affected by the floods, please know you are surrounded by love and prayers, and that help is on the way from your Lutheran sisters and brothers.
Give at: https://lwr.org/

From AMMPARO: USAHello has released its newly updated “Multilingual Immigration Guide,” which is now easier to use—with more resources, better filtering, and translations in 9 languages. It brings together resources created specifically for impacted immigrant communities with actionable, plain language, and mobile-friendly information. Already used by over 100,000 people since its launch in November, the guide is updated weekly to help immigrants stay safe and informed.
What’s inside: Latest immigration policy updates, Legal status options, Guidance on raids, detention, and deportation, Know Your Rights info, Help finding legal and local support.
Visit: https://usahello.org/safety/

Right now, millions of migrants around the world long for a place to call home. When you support the ELCA’s accompaniment of migrants (AMMPARO), you walk alongside migrants and refugees all over the world — toward rest, safety and belonging. According to the U.N., over 122 million people worldwide have been driven from their homes. Can we count on your support to help people on the move? Your gift today will be DOUBLED until we reach $50,000: https://give.elca.org/page/78084/donate/1?ea.url.id=3725984&forwarded=true

At Bread for the World’s July regional meetings, we will bring you up to speed on the stories and impact of this year’s Advocacy Summit and how we can build on it. We will also share an update on critical legislation in Congress and our progress in this year’s Offering of Letters (letter-writing campaign). And we will present strategies and opportunities to maximize our collective advocacy this summer and fall.
Midwest, Southwest, and West Combined Regional Online Meetings

-      Option 1: Wednesday, July 16 at 2:00 p.m. EDT
-      Option 2: Thursday, July 17 at 7:00 p.m. EDT

Register at: https://go.bread.org/page/84757/survey/1?_gl=1*r57shs*_gcl_au*MTkxMzA4MzA4Ni4xNzQ1NTk1MzM1

This Tuesday:

Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X1Z2AcC5TOSUCLEjOj5ygQ?mc_cid=9a91e95aa7&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Updates Beginning 29 June 2025

Today and next Sunday:

Next Sunday: Girl Scout Troop 10192, which meets at St. Paul on Saturdays, will be here selling painted pots and plants after worship in the Welcome Center. They are raising money for a trip to Carlsbad Caverns to complete their outdoor adventure and hiking badges. Leader Francesca Apodoca wrote that, thanks to the church’s support (the tamales and biscochitos sale at Christmas) they were able to take the girls skiing at Pajarito Ski Area which was the first time skiing for all the girls! They also completed their community service project which was to send Easter cards and gifts to elders living on the Navajo reservation. They thank St. Paul for all the support and love. Please stop by to encourage them in their next outdoor adventure! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

Mowing Volunteers: Dear Congregation! We are searching for some volunteer help for mowing the grass areas at Calico Preschool.  After twenty years, Holger Schulz has retired from this position. His hard work has been appreciated over the years. While mowing has been done weekly, it can also be done every other week. The lawn mower is held in a storage closet next to the school downstairs and is an electric mower. We are looking for a volunteer, or volunteers, to continue mowing.  Please reach out via email  (facilities@stpaulabq.org) or office phone (505-242-5942). Thank you! ~Jolene Gallegos

St. Paul Tshirts Are Still Available! If you ordered a shirt, you can pick yours up in the Office. Cost is $25. There are extras in various sizes , so if you didn’t order ahead, you can still purchase one! ~Deborah Ash

June’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting funds for Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks in July. Please indicate “FFF July” on your check to St. Paul. Thanks! We also continue with our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Navajo Code Talkers Presentation July 13. St Luke Lutheran Church has arranged to have Zonnie Gorman come to our church and talk about the Navajo Code Talkers. She is a recognized historian on the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II and has served as a consultant to numerous documentaries, museum exhibitions and magazine and book authors. She is the daughter of the late Dr. Carl Gorman, artist, teacher and one of the original “first twenty-nine” Navajo Code Talkers, the pilot group that devised the initial Navajo code. She is also the youngest sister to the legendary and renowned Navajo artist, the late R.C. Gorman.
          We would like to invite anyone who would be interested in hearing about this subject. Zonnie will be at St Luke’s on Sunday, July 13th at 1:30. We will be meeting in our Fellowship Hall. If you have any questions you can get in touch with me at 505-264-5444. We hope to see you there. ~Diane Quarles

Come Sing With Us! We need your voice! Audition for Coro Lux, and help fulfill our mission of "doing good as we do well," bringing high quality choral music to New Mexico and giving back to our community.
          Our 11th season kicks off in September with an event featuring Pulitzer Prize winning Diné composer and artist, Raven Chacon. A highlight of the season, October will feature performances of Considering Matthew Shepard by Craig Hella Johnson, conducted by the composer. Handel's Messiah, an audience favorite, will be performed in December, followed by FebFest, our annual celebration of gospel music and spirituals featuring guest clinician Dr. Phillip Schoultz.
Don't miss your chance to sing with Albuquerque's premier choral ensemble! Visit https://abqcorolux.org/ for more information and to sign up for an audition.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Pride Guide: Visit https://www.rmselca.org/synod-pride-guide to see what is going on around the Synod for Pride month, including St. Paul’s participation in the June 7th Pride Parade!

RMS Creation Care Team: Zoom Discussion on green burial. On Saturday, July 12, the Creation Care team is hosting a discussion on green burial at 10am on Zoom (us02web.zoom.us/j/83008940316).

Right now, millions of migrants around the world long for a place to call home. When you support the ELCA’s accompaniment of migrants (AMMPARO), you walk alongside migrants and refugees all over the world — toward rest, safety and belonging. According to the U.N., over 122 million people worldwide have been driven from their homes. Can we count on your support to help people on the move? Your gift today will be DOUBLED until we reach $50,000: https://give.elca.org/page/78084/donate/1?ea.url.id=3725984&forwarded=true

God is so good! A group of loving donors who are inspired by the good work you’re doing have offered to provide an additional $25,000 for our Love Thy Neighbor Matching Gift Challenge! The total match is now $155,000. Any gift you can make by June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar! Thank you for sharing your blessings with your neighbor today. Visit: https://lwr.org/

Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X1Z2AcC5TOSUCLEjOj5ygQ?mc_cid=9a91e95aa7&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Neighbor Kits: At Global Refuge, we're committed to the long welcome. That's why we created Neighbor Kits, a new way to show refugees and other immigrants that they are a critical part of our communities. Pack one (or many!) to support both new arrivals and those in need of a helping hand and demonstrate your commitment to the work of welcome. For kit details, visit: https://www.globalrefuge.org/neighbor-kits/. Options:
·         Youth Mentorship Kit: Assist a child with back-to-school needs
·         Garden Kit: Support the refugee-focused community garden in Fargo
·         Home and Kitchen Kit: Help make a house a home for refugee and other immigrant families
·         Health & Wellness Kit: Ensure our neighbors have access to essential hygiene items

Updates Beginning 22 June 2025

Continuing Today:

Today in Friendship Corner after Worship: Anyone interested in meeting as a group to learn how or to help others learn to make a Loom Hat is welcome. Grab your refreshments and join us for an hour or more if you wish. Bulky yarn will be available, limited looms will be available, instructions for knitting and looming will be available, and good company will be available. We will get you started and send you home to complete one or more hats. If you have bulky yarn to donate or share with others, please bring it. If you do not want to make a hat, learn to make pom-poms for hats, you can donate to the cause – the money raised will be used to purchase more bulky yarn. The warmth provided for a cold head will begin with one simple stitch of love……. ~Julie Ambrogi, for the Sabbatical Team

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

A Huge Thank You to All Rummage Sale Helpers! A big shout out to everyone who donated items for the sale, pitched in with setup, sales and clean up last Saturday. We netted $1,000 towards the Roof Project and we couldn’t have done it without you! ~Jolene Gallegos

St. Paul Tshirts Are Still Available! If you ordered a shirt, you can pick yours up in the Office. Cost is $25. There are extras in various sizes , so if you didn’t order ahead, you can still purchase one! ~Deborah Ash

Adopted Families is seeking a wheelchair. If you can provide one, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. ~Deborah Ash

June’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting funds for Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks in July. Please indicate “FFF July” on your check to St. Paul. Thanks! We also continue with our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Come Sing With Us! We need your voice! Audition for Coro Lux, and help fulfill our mission of "doing good as we do well," bringing high quality choral music to New Mexico and giving back to our community.
          Our 11th season kicks off in September with an event featuring Pulitzer Prize winning Diné composer and artist, Raven Chacon. A highlight of the season, October will feature performances of Considering Matthew Shepard by Craig Hella Johnson, conducted by the composer. Handel's Messiah, an audience favorite, will be performed in December, followed by FebFest, our annual celebration of gospel music and spirituals featuring guest clinician Dr. Phillip Schoultz.
Don't miss your chance to sing with Albuquerque's premier choral ensemble! Visit https://abqcorolux.org/ for more information and to sign up for an audition.

Immigrant and Refugee Resource Village of Albuquerque & New Mexico Women's Global Pathways: Refugee girls and adult women stitch hope for the unhoused, using needles, thread, and heart to sew essential items for Albuquerque's unhoused individuals. The  goal is to provide comfort and dignity by creating waterproof body friendly pillows, bags, and head coverings, so they don't have to sleep on the cold hard concrete floor.
          You can support their efforts by donating at www.irrva.org or mailing donations to P.O. Box 93445, Albuquerque, NM 87199. Funds will be used to:
- Provide stipends to seamstresses
- Hire a program coordinator, administrative assistant and director
- Purchase waterproof fabrics and sewing machines
- Create hygiene packs and essential items for the unhoused
In honor of world refugees/displaced between June 20 and July 30, artisans and volunteers will distribute these items to unhoused individuals in Albuquerque.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

RMS Pride Guide: Visit https://www.rmselca.org/synod-pride-guide to see what is going on around the Synod for Pride month, including St. Paul’s participation in the June 7th Pride Parade!

Recommit to Pride: Sign the Interfaith Alliance pledge: https://secure.everyaction.com/tlDXr7QMXkmNtsELjtTigw2

RMS Creation Care Team: Zoom Discussion on green burial. On Saturday, July 12, the Creation Care team is hosting a discussion on green burial at 10am on Zoom (us02web.zoom.us/j/83008940316).

At Global Refuge, we're committed to the long welcome. That means that we receive new neighbors with compassion and dignity, providing them with the basic necessities they need to rebuild their lives—but we don't stop there.
We work with partners across the country to ensure that our newest neighbors continue to feel supported and are able to connect with their communities.
That's why we created Neighbor Kits, a new way to show refugees and other immigrants that they are a critical part of our communities. Pack one (or many!) to support both new arrivals and those in need of a helping hand and demonstrate your commitment to the work of welcome.
For full details, including instructions for building each type of kit, visit: https://www.globalrefuge.org/neighbor-kits/

Options include…

• Youth Mentorship Kit: Assist a child with back-to-school needs

• Garden Kit: Support the refugee-focused community garden in Fargo

• Home and Kitchen Kit: Help make a house a home for refugee and other immigrant families

• Health & Wellness Kit: Ensure our neighbors have access to essential hygiene items

God is so good! A group of loving donors who are inspired by the good work you’re doing have offered to provide an additional $25,000 for our Love Thy Neighbor Matching Gift Challenge! The total match is now $155,000. Any gift you can make by June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar! Thank you for sharing your blessings with your neighbor today. Visit: https://lwr.org/

Lutheran Summer Music 2025 Is Almost Here—Don’t Miss a Note! From June 22–July 20 at Valparaiso University, enjoy 30+ free concerts, recitals, and worship services—or watch online via Live from LSM: https://www.lsmacademy.org/live) Highlights include the Bach Cantata Eucharist, Festival of Hymns, Faculty Organ Recital, and Festival Week with the Festival Band, Orchestra, and Choir. Experience the transformational power of LSM from the comfort of your home!

Updates Beginning 15 June 2025

Continuing Today:

Today: Our sister in Christ, Margo, will be 102 on June 16! St. Paul would like to fill a Bucket of Birthday Greetings to Margo. Please take time to fill out a birthday card, to write a greeting, to send love and let Margo know we are thinking of her on this special day of hers. We have today, June 15 to bring cards, write cards, messages and prayers. Cards will be delivered by her daughter Cindy or by Visitation close to or on her birthday. Thank you for your good wishes and thoughtful messages. ~Julie Ambrogi for Visitation Ministry

St. Paul Tshirts Are Still Available! If you ordered a shirt, you can pick yours up in the Office. Cost is $25. There are extras in various sizes, so if you didn’t order ahead, you can still purchase one! ~Deborah Ash

Next Sunday: June 22 in Friendship Corner after Worship: Anyone interested in meeting as a group to learn how or to help others learn to make a Loom Hat is welcome. Grab your refreshments and join us for an hour or more if you wish. Bulky yarn will be available, limited looms will be available, instructions for knitting and looming will be available, and good company will be available. We will get you started and send you home to complete one or more hats. If you have bulky yarn to donate or share with others, please bring it. If you do not want to make a hat, learn to make pom-poms for hats, you can donate to the cause – the money raised will be used to purchase more bulky yarn. The warmth provided for a cold head will begin with one simple stitch of love……. ~Julie Ambrogi, for the Sabbatical Team

Adopted Families is seeking a wheelchair. If you can provide one, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. ~Deborah Ash

June’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting funds for Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks in July. Please indicate “FFF July” on your check to St. Paul. Thanks! We also continue with our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

From Local Partner Organizations

Immigrant and Refugee Resource Village of Albuquerque & New Mexico Women's Global Pathways: Refugee girls and adult women stitch hope for the unhoused, using needles, thread, and heart to sew essential items for Albuquerque's unhoused individuals. The  goal is to provide comfort and dignity by creating waterproof body friendly pillows, bags, and head coverings, so they don't have to sleep on the cold hard concrete floor.
You can support their efforts by donating at www.irrva.org or mailing donations to P.O. Box 93445, Albuquerque, NM 87199. Funds will be used to:
- Provide stipends to seamstresses
- Hire a program coordinator, administrative assistant and director
- Purchase waterproof fabrics and sewing machines
- Create hygiene packs and essential items for the unhoused
In honor of world refugees/displaced between June 20 and July 30, artisans and volunteers will distribute these items to unhoused individuals in Albuquerque.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Call for the body of Christ to affirm every body. See ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton’s Pride Month message at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Igxir5JTZSQ

Recommit to Pride: Sign the Interfaith Alliance pledge: https://secure.everyaction.com/tlDXr7QMXkmNtsELjtTigw2

RMS Pride Guide: Visit https://www.rmselca.org/synod-pride-guide to see what is going on around the Synod for Pride month, including St. Paul’s participation in the June 7th Pride Parade!

An Overview of the 2025 RMS Synod Assembly is posted in the Welcome Center. Or visit:
https://rmselca.org/sites/rmselca.org/files/media/2025_synod_assembly_overview.pdf
Other resources from the Assembly, including videos shown, are at:
https://rmselca.org/synod-assembly-2025-dios-est%C3%A1-aqu%C3%AD-god-here
           The 2025 Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly theme was “Dios esta aqui. God is here.” We know that God is always with us and we invite you to share your story of how God is present in your life and in your ministries. Go to the link below to share with a corresponding picture:
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/ea68c075fa02415d949b54d686f9c602
(With your permission, your stories and photos may be featured online and in Synod communications.)

RMS Creation Care Team: Zoom Discussion on green burial. On Saturday, July 12, the Creation Care team is hosting a discussion on green burial at 10am on Zoom (us02web.zoom.us/j/83008940316).

God is so good! A group of loving donors who are inspired by the good work you’re doing have offered to provide an additional $25,000 for our Love Thy Neighbor Matching Gift Challenge! The total match is now $155,000. Any gift you can make by June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar! Thank you for sharing your blessings with your neighbor today. Visit: https://lwr.org/

Join Global Refuge for a special World Refugee Day webinar on Tuesday, June 17 at 12 p.m. ET! Rep. Yassamin Ansari and Global Refuge President & CEO Krish O'Mara Vignarajah will provide opening remarks, followed by our Advocacy & Policy team's presentation on the history of World Refugee Day and the U.S. resettlement program—as well as updates on the current state of resettlement and related legislation. We look forward to seeing you there!
Email advocacy@globalrefuge.org to register.

Bread for the World’s 2025 Advocacy Summit: Right now, hundreds of anti-hunger advocates are on Capitol Hill as a part of summit. They are urging their members of Congress to protect and preserve vital domestic and international nutrition programs from unprecedented funding cuts. Help amplify their voices by emailing your members of Congress now. Urge them to protect, preserve, and fully fund vital domestic and international nutrition programs: https://www.bread.org/

Lutheran Summer Music 2025 Is Almost Here—Don’t Miss a Note! From June 22–July 20 at Valparaiso University, enjoy 30+ free concerts, recitals, and worship services—or watch online via Live from LSM: https://www.lsmacademy.org/live) Highlights include the Bach Cantata Eucharist, Festival of Hymns, Faculty Organ Recital, and Festival Week with the Festival Band, Orchestra, and Choir. Experience the transformational power of LSM from the comfort of your home!

NPNA Pathways is an online platform designed to connect immigrants across the United States to trusted resources and organizations, making it easier for individuals and community organizations to find the support they need. Pathways is a versatile tool that can provide additional resources and navigation for communities that your organization works with. 
NPNA Pathways provides essential information on immigration topics, including legal rights, asylum, TPS, and policy updates. The platform also offers access to local resources nationwide—such as legal aid, workforce programs, housing, and healthcare—through trusted NPNA partners. Users can request a personalized Navigation Page to receive resources by email, along with follow-up support from NPNA staff. https://npnapathways.org/

Know Your Remedies: Learn About Immigration Legal Options & Make a Plan. Justicia Lab, Ready to Stay Coalition, and the National Partnership for New Americans launched a new comprehensive 5-minute preliminary legal screening tool for immigrants to explore potential immigration relief options.
          The 5-minute online interview is free and anonymous and all answers are secure and private. It is designed to quickly connect you with tools and actionable information, not to provide legal advice. This legal screening tool complements an updated make a plan tool that supports immigrants protecting themselves and their families amidst increased enforcement. https://readytostay.org/know-your-options

Updates Beginning 8 June 2025

Continuing Today:

Today: Our sister in Christ, Margo, will be 102 on June 16! St. Paul would like to fill a Bucket of Birthday Greetings to Margo. Please take time to fill out a birthday card, to write a greeting, to send love and let Margo know we are thinking of her on this special day of hers. We have today, June 8 to bring cards, write cards, messages and prayers. Cards will be delivered by her daughter Cindy or by Visitation close to or on her birthday. Thank you for your good wishes and thoughtful messages. ~Julie Ambrogi for Visitation Ministry

Thank You! to Our PRIDE Parade Participants. Many thanks to everyone who participated in yesterday’s parade. We were thrilled to be among the Lutheran congregations who were a part of this important community event! ~Bryan Harold & Jim Hatfield

A Thank You! from Gabriel Rabezanany, who travelled to NY this past week: Thank you to everyone who contributed to my funding to go to New York. At the beginning of my fundraising, I had a total of $300, but thanks to your contributions, I now have $2881.35/$3000 raised towards funding my trip to New York City. The two shows we’re seeing are: 'Boop! The Musical', and 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'. On top of that, I am also visiting other famous places in New York. I am leaving on Tuesday, June 3rd, and am returning on June 8th. Once again, thank you to everyone who donated to help me. I ask for your prayers on my trip to help keep me safe along the way.

This Saturday, June 14th 9:00 am to 3:00 pm: St. Paul Rummage Sale. See details below. I will be here at the Church by 7:00 am to help set up.

• Please have your items in boxes or bags.

• We could use help setting up tables and a tent. We are still taking items for staging in the library until the day before the Rummage Sale.

• If you have items you are selling, please be at the sale, unless otherwise unable. Call me at church: 505-242-5942 or on my cell phone: 505-264-6456.

• We will be advertising the Rummage Sale on the marquee (outside the church) from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for passersby. We will also put signs at Indian School Rd  and Broadway, and University and Indian School Rd. 

• We are putting an ad on Facebook / Market Place to advertise the Sale.

• I will have a cash bag with some change and can help with change and funds coming in, as well as an assistant helping with sales.

• I would like to order pizza, lemonade and salad for those attending to be delivered to the church around Noon for all helpers, served in the Welcome Center.  Other snacks are welcome as well if you want to bring anything. 

• Please bring your sun protection gear, water and sunscreen.  We can get you into the church if needed for the bathroom, liquids and snacks.

• If you have suggestions or details, please contact me prior to the sale. 

• All proceeds will be going to help pay for the Roof Project.

• We will have a truck to pick up leftover items Monday the 16th. As we found out, most places don’t have trucks running on weekends, i.e. Salvation Army, Joy Junction, Give ABQ or Humane Association.  We will need to move leftover items into the church main hallway after the sale. 

• Please see me after service to confirm your participation.  Again, we will need assistance with set up/breakdown and folks to be here for the sale.

Thank you for your participation! ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

St. Paul Tshirts Are Still Available! If you ordered a shirt, you can pick yours up after worship. Cost is $25. There are extras in various sizes, so if you didn’t order ahead, you can still purchase one! ~Deborah Ash

Save the Date: June 22 in Friendship Corner after Worship: Anyone interested in meeting as a group to learn how or to help others learn to make a Loom Hat is welcome. Grab your refreshments and join us for an hour or more if you wish. Bulky yarn will be available, limited looms will be available, instructions for knitting and looming will be available, and good company will be available. We will get you started and send you home to complete one or more hats. If you have bulky yarn to donate or share with others, please bring it. If you do not want to make a hat, learn to make pom-poms for hats, you can donate to the cause – the money raised will be used to purchase more bulky yarn. The warmth provided for a cold head will begin with one simple stitch of love……. ~Julie Ambrogi, for the Sabbatical Team

From First Immanuel Lutheran Church, Portland, OR: We have word that Pastor Aaron is undergoing surgery this week. Please pray for his quick and complete recovery, as well as release from discomfort. Hold Pastor Melinda and the entire family in your hearts during this time. Cards and letters of love may be sent to Pr. Aaron and Pr. Melinda at 7837 SW 4th Avenue, Portland OR 97219. (Pastor Melinda was formerly at St. Paul.)

Adopted Families is seeking a wheelchair. If you can provide one, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. ~Deborah Ash

June’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting funds for Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks in July. Please indicate “FFF July” on your check to St. Paul. Thanks! We also continue with our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

June 2025 Finance Committee Report:

Income and Expense

As of April 30, SPLC had total expenses of $36,278 against total income of $19,145. That has us operating at a deficit of $17,133. The 2025 Budget projected a net loss of $9,725, which put us $7,409 over Finance projections of the SPLC deficit. Unbudgeted maintenance and repairs and a 3-payroll month account for the bulk of the deficit.

Calico recently received a $1,084,320 grant from the State of NM for 3 and 4 year olds.  The grant is for 4 years and is a free program designed to help pre-K children develop the social, emotional and academic skills necessary for kindergarten. We are so proud of Marisol and the diligent Calico Board!

The Sanctuary Project

The original estimate for the Sanctuary Project of $75,541 was brought in $1,862 under budget. The endowment funds of $32,721 set aside for the sanctuary project did not need to be used and have been allocated to the Roof Project. (See below for full Sanctuary Project accounting.)

Other SPLC Funds

SPLC is blessed to have 4 fully invested funds, governed by policies that determine usage and distribution.  SPLC has, in recent years, taken $40-50,000 to meet annual obligations.

The 4 funds are:

          Mission Investment Fund                   $82,000

          Investment                                        $257,832

          Scholarship                                     $1,888,187

          Endowment                                   $1,073,698

The Roof Project

We expect the final 3 bids by the end of the summer.  The most recent bid was $260,000. With a 10% contingency, the projected cost is $286,000. The anticipated carry forward of Sanctuary Project funds and 2024 endowment distributions reduces the cost to $253,279.

The Finance Committee, with Congregational approval at its November 2024 meeting, plans to use the Endowment Fund to pay for the roof replacement.  We intend to use the accrued interest, plus a portion of the corpus, to cover the roof costs. Endowment Fund, after roof costs, is projected to be $803,702.

It was also decided at the November Congregational Meeting to forgo all benevolent donations in 2025 (e.g. Albuquerque Interfaith, Bread for the World, Faith Works, Rocky Mountain Synod and others). The congregation is encouraged to direct donations to operational expenses but, of course, may still make special donations to benevolences of their choice.  We, like you, want to be good stewards of our funds. We have an obligation to both mission and maintaining a church we all love.

Final Sanctuary Report May 2025:

Expenses

Renaissance Man (original estimate)                    $62,050

Artisans of the Desert (original estimate)               $  6,839

Pace Audio                                                               $  6,562

Total Original Estimate                                              $75,451

Less savings                                                               -$  8,252

Total Project Cost                                                       $67,199

Income

Total congregation donations (2023-’24)              $33,061

Bradbury-Stamm Parking rental
June14, 2024-June 14, 2025                                     $36,000

Total income thru 6/15/25                                        $69,061

Project savings                                                             $1,862

This accounting squares with the original Roadmap with 2 exceptions:  No endowment funds were used and we had $10,000 more in member donations than anticipated.  The Project came in at $1,862 under budget, due to lower project costs than originally estimated.   $32,721 in 2024 endowment funds have been allocated to the Roof Project. 

From Local Partner Organizations

ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative Update: Dear Friends and Partners of ABQ FaithWorks, I have sad news about FaithWorks that I need to share with you.  You may already be aware that Hannah Albee, Executive Director, who has kept the organization going almost single-handedly the past year, has unfortunately resigned for health reasons. The Board debated about beginning the hiring process, but then were informed at the end of last week that FW City contracts were not renewed. The City is even apparently reassessing their approach to Eviction Prevention, one of our key programs. Although we have a viable budget throughout 2025, we could not offer a competitive full-time salary.
          The Board of Directors met June 1 and decided to cease operations effective immediately. Hannah and the board are currently working with grantors, the landlord and attorneys on the legalities of shutting down. Hannah will stay on board through the sunset process. Our intention is to keep the hard-won 501(c)(3) under the name of ABQ FaithWorks Collaborative for future use by member congregations. FaithWorks clergy support this approach and have agreed to sustain a dormant legal entity if we can keep it. 
          In the meantime, please accept the gratitude of the Board for your support and partnership over the years. We are a great force in the community when we all work together. And it's been a pleasure.
          Don't hesitate to be in touch with Hannah or me if you have any questions. Jane McGuire, 505 220 5667.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

ELCA Presiding Bishop Eaton Responds to Trump administration’s travel ban scheduled to go into effect June 9. The ban restricts entry into the United States from 12 countries, several of which are majority Muslim countries.
          “As Lutherans, we should be concerned by these actions,” Eaton writes. “Through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, God has set us free from ourselves to serve our neighbor. This expanded policy separates families from loved ones already here. Further, it prevents people — especially those escaping perilous or life-threatening situations in several of these nations — from coming to safety in the U.S. It does not enhance our safety or reflect our vocation as Christians.” Read the full statement at: https://www.elca.org/news-and-events/bishop-eaton-issues-statement-on-travel-ban

Bishop Meghan's Video June Update-Pride Guide and Synod Assembly: Visit https://vimeo.com/1089589984.

An Overview of the 2025 Synod Assembly is posted in the Welcome Center. See:
https://rmselca.org/sites/rmselca.org/files/media/2025_synod_assembly_overview.pdf

Other resources from the Assembly, including videos shown, are at:
https://rmselca.org/synod-assembly-2025-dios-est%C3%A1-aqu%C3%AD-god-here

The 2025 Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly theme was “Dios esta aqui. God is here.” We know that God is always with us and we invite you to share your story of how God is present in your life and in your ministries. Go to the link below to share with a corresponding picture:
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/ea68c075fa02415d949b54d686f9c602
(With your permission, your stories and photos may be featured online and in Synod communications.)

God is so good! A group of loving donors who are inspired by the good work you’re doing have offered to provide an additional $25,000 for our Love Thy Neighbor Matching Gift Challenge! The total match is now $155,000. Any gift you can make by June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar! Thank you for sharing your blessings with your neighbor today. Visit: https://lwr.org/

Global Refuge: Harvesting Hope: Refugee Agriculture in Fargo-This Wednesday. Join us for our next Mobilization and Faith Relations Webinar on June 11 at 2 p.m. Eastern, where we will hear directly from our Fargo Field Office Staff about the impact of the Refugee Agricultural Partnership Program on the lives of our clients. Join us to hear stories of hope and learn about our thriving community garden and ways you can be part of our growth!  Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uYgT6HjCQNyTm_q-iBqNdQ?mc_cid=39e8aa1f8e&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Updates Beginning 1 June 2025

Starting Today:

Today: St. Paul Tshirts Have Arrived! For those who ordered, you can pick yours up in the Narthex. Cost is $25. There are extras in various sizes, so if you didn’t order ahead, you can still purchase one! We will be wearing them for the PRIDE Parade this Saturday. ~ Bryan Harold & Jim Hatfield

Candy & Cards: We need a few people to come by the office this week to help staple wrapped candy to St. Paul business cards. There is a signup sheet in the Welcome Center. Please indicate which day you can be available, and we will plan a work session to get them ready to give out at the Parade Saturday! Thank you. ~ Bryan Harold & Jim Hatfield

The PRIDE Parade is this Saturday, June 7th! There is still time to sign up to participate with the St. Paul float. The signup sheet is in the Welcome Center. Come out and show your support! We will meet at the church at 7am to take the float over to line up and decorate. We are working on having the four Lutheran churches participating line up together. The parade will be over by Noon. ~ Bryan Harold & Jim Hatfield

St. Paul Rummage Sale Details, Saturday, June 14th: Here are some details regarding the St. Paul Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th/ Saturday, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (updated times). I will be here at the Church by 7:00 am to help set up on the day of sale.

• Please have your items in boxes or bags.

• We could use help setting up tables and a tent. We are still taking items for staging in the library until the day before the Rummage Sale.

• If you have items you are selling, please be at the sale, unless otherwise unable. Call me at the church:  505-242-5942 or on my cell phone:  505-264-6456.

• We will be advertising the Rummage Sale on the marquee (outside the church) from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for passersby. We will also put signs at Indian School Rd  and Broadway, and University and Indian School Rd. 

• We are putting an ad on Facebook / Market Place to advertise the Sale.

• I will have a cash bag with some change and can help with change and funds coming in, as well as an assistant helping with sales.

• I would like to order pizza, lemonde and salad for those attending to be delivered to the church around Noon for all helpers, served in the Welcome Area during breaks.  Other snacks are welcome as well if you want to bring anything. 

• Please bring your sun protection gear, water and sunscreen.  We can get you into the church if needed for the bathroom, liquids and snacks.

• If you have suggestions or details, please contact me prior to the sale. 

• All proceeds will be going to help pay for the Roof Project.

• We will have a truck to pick up leftover items Monday the 16th. As we found out, most places don’t have trucks running on weekends, i.e. Salvation Army, Joy Junction, Give ABQ or Humane Association.  We will need to move leftover items into the church main hallway after the sale. 

• Please see me after service to confirm your participation.  Again, we will need assistance with set up/breakdown and folks to be here for the sale.

Thank you for your participation! ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Our sister in Christ, Margo, will be 102 on June 16! St. Paul would like to fill a Bucket of Birthday Greetings to Margo. Please take time to fill out a birthday card, to write a greeting, to send love and let Margo know we are thinking of her on this special day of hers. We have this Sunday, June 1 and next Sunday June 8 to bring cards, write cards, messages and prayers. Cards will be delivered by her daughter Cindy or by Visitation close to or on her birthday. Thank you for your good wishes and thoughtful messages. ~Julie Ambrogi for Visitation Ministry

Save the Date: June 22 after our Worship Service in Friendship Corner: Anyone interested in meeting as a group to learn how or to help others learn to make a Loom Hat is welcome. Grab your refreshments and join us for an hour or more if you wish. Bulky yarn will be available, limited looms will be available, instructions for knitting and looming will be available, and good company will be available. We will get you started and send you home to complete one or more hats. If you have bulky yarn to donate or share with others, please bring it. If you do not want to make a hat, learn to make pom-poms for hats, you can donate to the cause – the money raised will be used to purchase more bulky yarn. The warmth provided for a cold head will begin with one simple stitch of love……. ~Julie Ambrogi, for the Sabbatical Team

Adopted Families is seeking a wheelchair. If you can provide one, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. ~Deborah Ash

June’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting funds for Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks in July. Please indicate “FFF July” on your check to St. Paul. Thanks! We also continue with our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

From Local Partner Organizations

Today, 1 June at 2pm: ABQ Chamber Soloists Concert at St. Paul: The final concert of their season features:

Javier Alvarez: Metro Chabacano
Henri Dutilleux: Ainsi la Nuit
Felix Mendelssohn: Octet for Strings, Op. 20

A pre-concert talk with the musical director will take place at 1:15pm in Fellowship Hall. Tickets at: https://www.abqcs.com/

Today: Migration with Dignity Pilgrimage Vigil. June 1 at 7pm (carpool at 5:45pm from St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church, 601 Montaño Rd NW 87107). St. Michael’s will help host a vigil in Arthur Park in Estancia. As part of the Vigil, we will drive by the Torrance County Detention Facility to honk our horns and let immigrants detained inside know they are not alone. Carpool from St. Michael’s or you can meet us at Arthur Park in Estancia at 7pm.
Coordinated by the Episcopal Migration Caucus, the vigil will include Christian prayers, Scriptures, and songs, and personal stories from detained or formerly detained persons. We will gather for no more than one hour as a peaceful, reverential presence. All are welcome to bear witness to the cruelty and injustice of the immigrant detention system and stand up in spirit for the dignity of every human being. 

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church: The final report and recommendations of the commission, including the response of the ELCA Church Council to the report are available at: https://www.elca.org/about/leadership/church-council/crlc

A group of compassionate donors has come together to kick off a $130,000 Love Thy Neighbor matching gift challenge. Any gift you can make by June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar! Thank you for sharing your blessings with your neighbor today. Visit: https://lwr.org/

Lutheran World Relief mobilizes response for neighbors in Midwest & South. For weeks, tornadoes and flash flooding have caused dozens of weather-related deaths and billions in catastrophic damage throughout the southern and midwestern US. Because of faithful supporters like you, our multi-state emergency response is underway: https://lwr.org/

Global Refuge: Harvesting Hope: Refugee Agriculture in Fargo. Join us for our next Mobilization and Faith Relations Webinar on June 11, where we will hear directly from our Fargo Field Office Staff about the impact of the Refugee Agricultural Partnership Program on the lives of our clients. Join us to hear stories of hope and learn about our thriving community garden and ways you can be part of our growth!  Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uYgT6HjCQNyTm_q-iBqNdQ?mc_cid=39e8aa1f8e&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Global Refuge, in partnership with Paraclete Post, a ministry of the Southern Ohio Synod, ELCA, has developed an educational resource for families to talk to children about immigration. You will find a discussion of a children’s book on immigration, prompts and further reading recommendations for family conversation, and suggestions for spiritual play.  Download the resource to talk to your kids about the work of welcome:
https://globalrefuge.tfaforms.net/123?mc_cid=39e8aa1f8e&mc_eid=2f360c0226

Global Refuge Statement: Termination of Protections for Aghans in the U.S. https://www.globalrefuge.org/news/global-refuge-condemns-termination-of-protections-for-afghans-in-the-u-s/?mc_cid=39e8aa1f8e&mc_eid=2f360c0226

Updates Beginning 25 May 2025

A Heartfelt Thank You! to everyone who helped make the Immigration Summit and opening worship for the Synod Assembly such successes here at St. Paul! We welcomed the Bishop, as well as folks from throughout the Rocky Mountain Synod this past week. St. Paul also loaned banners to decorate the Assembly space.
          And Hats Off! to Ruth Hoffman, who wrapped up her term as Synod Vice President, and was recognized for her service at the Assembly! Please see the monitors for pictures from the events. ~Deborah Ash

A Thank You from RMS: Dear St. Paul Volunteers, thank you so very much for your presence and hard work during the RMS Immigration Accompaniment Summit and opening worship. You are truly an amazing group of humans and you made such a difference in how smoothly the Summit ran and how welcome all the participants and leaders felt. Thank you so very much! Diana Linden-Johnson, Minister for Rostered and Lay Leadership

From RMS Assembly’s Ministry Magazine:

Adopted Families:  We recently helped two people. One is a single woman with 40 years of federal working experience. Someone fraudulently changed her banking info which resulted in her not receiving her pension for three months; so she needed help with her water bill of almost $212. Her water was about to be shut off. She was very grateful when we paid her bill. The other person is a single man we heard about through a client advocate at Healthcare for the Homeless. The man had arranged a stay with his family in Phoenix where he plans on finding better job options for himself. We worked with the client advocate to pay about $69 to get the man the bus ticket he needed. The man was very excited to get the ticket. Thank you for helping us help others.  ~Kay Schoenefeld, Coordinator

Adopted Families is seeking a wheelchair. If you can provide one, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. ~Deborah Ash

June’s God’s Work Our Hands project is collecting funds for Friends Feeding Friends’ First Thursday meal at HopeWorks in July. Please indicate “FFF July” on your check to St. Paul. Thanks! We also continue with our Sabbatical project making hats for Dignity Mission. ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Mark Your Calendars: This year’s PRIDE Parade is Saturday, June 7th! The Signup sheet is in the Welcome Center for participating in the parade. Come out and show your support! Thanks to Bryan Harold and Jim Hatfield for captaining our efforts this year. ~Deborah Ash

Reminder for Rummage Sale scheduled June 14th: If you would like to participate in the Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th, Saturday, from 8 am to 4 pm, you are able to stage items in the library on the left-hand side of the room for now. Please price your items according to what you think is the value.  We will also have a Salvation Army Truck scheduled to arrive close to 4:00 pm and they will take away any unwanted items.  Please reach out to me on Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9am to 2pm via call to the Office or email (facilities@stpaulabq.org).
I will be able to assist you in bringing items into the library if help is needed.  Please keep items organized in boxes, or bags with your name on them.  If you have larger furniture items, we ask that you bring them the day prior to the Rummage Sale.  If you have smaller furniture items, there should be room in the library. 
I hope this idea is a success in raising money to assist the Roof expenses, as all sales will go to the Roof Fund as a donation. Thank you for your participation. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Hats for Dignity Mission. During Pastor Koppel’s Sabbatical leave (May, June, July) our congregation is participating in a collaborative effort to make hats to donate in the fall of 2025 to Dignity Mission. There are several ways you can participate:

• You can learn to make these loomed hats from yarn. A limited number of looms are available through our church to check out and share. Simply u-tube hats on a loom/ u-tube for instructions and simple to follow examples or ask Julie Ambrogi (903.602.6222) or Nancy Jenkins (505.269.0855) to teach and get you started.

• If you are interested in purchasing your own looms,  ask Julie to order your set OR order your own set through AMAZON.com ($19.95 gets you 4 looms of various sizes, pompom makers for the various sizes, a looming pick and a needle).  We are using Readaer Round Knitting Looms.

• If you do not want to mess with yarn and/or loom – DONATE to the project! This will be our God’s Work, Our Hands project during these months and donations will be used to purchase yarn or more looms.

• There is another way to be involved – IF YOU KNOW HOW TO KNIT OR CROCHET, (Bless you!) feel free to knit or crochet hats for Dignity Mission. Finished hats can be placed in the gray bin in the Welcome Center.

St. Paul has lots of yarn to offer for making these hats or yarn can be purchased. One skein of yarn can make 3 -5 hats depending on the size of the hat. We would love to have these hats being made and coming in with the last of the hats to come in at the end of July. In August we will welcome Pastor Koppel and Jan back, bless our project and send our hats to those needing warmth and encouragement in the harsh elements outside. We are blessed to be a blessing…. ~Julie Ambrogi, for the Sabbatical Team

Scam Alert! An email is circulating about purchasing gift cards—this time around it has Pastor Van De Motter’s signature line rather than Pastor Koppel’s! If you receive this email, please report it as spam. ~Deborah Ash

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

From Local Partner Organizations

Luther House: Please see Pastor Rhonda Newby-Torres’ newsletter entitled Legacy, posted in the Welcome Center. It describes the recent baptism of Ezra Baslios, and the several generations of his family, members of St. Paul, who have been part of the Luther House community over a 20-year span!

From Witness to Resistance: Desert Shrine. You are invited on Saturday, May 31, 3-5 PM at First Congregational(Lomas/Girard) for the benefit of partner organization New Mexico Immigrant Law Center (NMILC) to stand with fellow advocates. A shrine has been created by Ted Martinez calling to mind migrants' arduous journeys through the Chihuahuan Desert. Speakers are from the City, El Centro, NMILC, Nahalat Shalom, and St Therese. Refreshments. Parking at Jefferson Middle School.

ABQ Chamber Soloists Concert at St. Paul next Sunday, 1 June at 2pm: The final concert of their season features:

Javier Alvarez: Metro Chabacano
Henri Dutilleux: Ainsi la Nuit
Felix Mendelssohn: Octet for Strings, Op. 20

A pre-concert talk with the musical director will take place at 1:15pm in Fellowship Hall. Tickets at: https://www.abqcs.com/

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

May Update: Advocacy Connections from the D.C. ELCA Advocacy Office. Visit the link below for information on these topics and why they matter to the ELCA:

·        Budget reconciliation advances via committee
·        FEMA threats
·        Advocacy with companion churches
·        Humanitarian aid to Gaza
·        Tax reforms
·        Migration policy Updates

blogs.elca.org/advocacy/may-update-advocacy-connections-2025/

Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church: The final report and recommendations of the commission, including the response of the ELCA Church Council to the report are available at: https://www.elca.org/about/leadership/church-council/crlc

A Draft Social Message on Child Protection: The prevalence of child maltreatment in the U.S. is staggering. The ELCA’s draft social message on child protection outlines the church’s sacred responsibility to protect and nurture children. To strengthen this draft, share your suggestions during the public comment period by June 30: https://www.elca.org/faith/faith-and-society/current-social-writing-projects/child-protection

Discover the 2025 Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) Season. LSM is thrilled to announce its 43rd season, featuring over 30 free concerts, recitals, and worship services open to the public. Hosted at Valparaiso University from June 22 to July 20, this season offers a vibrant lineup of musical experiences that will also be shared online via Live from LSM—bringing this summer's transformational experience to audiences around the world.

          Highlights include the Music and Worship Series, featuring the beloved Bach Cantata Eucharist, the inspiring Festival of Hymns, and the debut of the Faculty Organ Recital. During Festival Week, experience the culmination of the summer through powerful performances by the Festival Band, Orchestra, and Choir. Live from LSM access: LSMacademy.org/2025.

Lutherans Restoring Creation is a grassroots movement promoting care for creation in the ELCA, cultivating a community of dedicated stewards of earth and neighbor who proclaim God’s promise of hope and healing for all. A variety of events are listed in the community calendar (local to global, in-person and virtual): https://lutheransrestoringcreation.org/events/

A group of compassionate donors has come together to kick off a $130,000 Love Thy Neighbor matching gift challenge. Any gift you can make by June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar! Thank you for sharing your blessings with your neighbor today. Visit: https://lwr.org/

Global Refuge: Harvesting Hope: Refugee Agriculture in Fargo. Join us for our next Mobilization and Faith Relations Webinar on June 11, where we will hear directly from our Fargo Field Office Staff about the impact of the Refugee Agricultural Partnership Program on the lives of our clients. Join us to hear stories of hope and learn about our thriving community garden and ways you can be part of our growth!  Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uYgT6HjCQNyTm_q-iBqNdQ?mc_cid=39e8aa1f8e&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

Global Refuge, in partnership with Paraclete Post, a ministry of the Southern Ohio Synod, ELCA, has developed an educational resource for families to talk to children about immigration. In this resource, you will find a discussion of a children’s book on immigration, prompts and further reading recommendations for family conversation, and suggestions for spiritual play. Download the resource to talk to your kids about the work of welcome: https://globalrefuge.tfaforms.net/123?mc_cid=39e8aa1f8e&mc_eid=2f360c0226

Global Refuge Statement on the Termination of Protections for Aghans in the U.S. Read the full statement at:  https://www.globalrefuge.org/news/global-refuge-condemns-termination-of-protections-for-afghans-in-the-u-s/?mc_cid=39e8aa1f8e&mc_eid=2f360c0226

Updates Beginning 18 May 2025

Today after Worship: Ministry Fair, a chance for the various St. Paul ministries to show what they do and, importantly, show how you can be involved. Tables will be set up in the narthex after worship, and you'll be able wander among them at your own pace. ~Bob Matthews, Adult Faith Development

Scam Alert! An email is circulating about purchasing gift cards—this time around it has Pastor Van De Motter’s signature line rather than Pastor Koppel’s! If you receive this email, please report it as spam. ~Deborah Ash

A Thank You to St. Paul: Dear St. Paul Family, the fundraiser for the 2025 Madagascar Girls Camp was a resounding success! Thank you so much to all the families and friends at St. Paul who participated. Your generous donations will make a significant difference in the lives of 21 girls and seven female teachers from rural communities in Madagascar.
Continuing the tradition of the past two years, this year's week-long residential camp, themed "Cultivating Hope," will provide these girls with transformative opportunities. By visiting universities and historic sites, learning Basic English, engaging in arts and crafts, listening to inspiring talks from educated and professional women, and connecting with peers from other rural communities facing similar challenges, the camp aims to instill hope. Instead of viewing their current circumstances as a dead end, the Girls Camp will empower these girls and their teachers to see education as a pathway to a brighter personal, professional, and economic future.
Most importantly, the Girls Camp offers a unique opportunity to foster a better future for rural communities in Madagascar, where 80% of the population lives and works. The hope is that through education, these girls will be equipped to work in various fields and actively contribute to the development of their communities. The continued growth of rural schools depends on the education of the local future generation. These girls represent that future, and St. Paul plays a crucial role in shaping it for our neighbors across the globe.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your love, support, and care! Words cannot adequately express my gratitude. May God's gracious blessings be upon you and your loved ones.
Appreciatively, Rijasoa Andriamanana

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

Mark Your Calendars: This year’s PRIDE Parade is Saturday, June 7th! Details to come regarding St. Paul’s float for the parade and participating in the event. Come out and show your support! Thanks to Bryan Harold and Jim Hatfield for captaining our efforts this year. ~Deborah Ash

Reminder for Rummage Sale scheduled June 14th: If you would like to participate in the Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th, Saturday, from 8 am to 4 pm, you are able to stage items in the library on the left-hand side of the room for now. Please price your items according to what you think is the value.  We will also have a Salvation Army Truck scheduled to arrive close to 4:00 pm and they will take away any unwanted items.  Please reach out to me on Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9am to 2pm via call to the Office or email (facilities@stpaulabq.org).
I will be able to assist you in bringing items into the library if help is needed.  Please keep items organized in boxes, or bags with your name on them.  If you have larger furniture items, we ask that you bring them the day prior to the Rummage Sale.  If you have smaller furniture items, there should be room in the library. 
I hope this idea is a success in raising money to assist the Roof expenses, as all sales will go to the Roof Fund as a donation. Thank you for your participation. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

May’s God’s Work Our Hands Project is: Hats for Dignity Mission. During Pastor Koppel’s Sabbatical leave (May, June, July) our congregation is participating in a collaborative effort to make hats to donate in the fall of 2025 to Dignity Mission. There are several ways you can participate:

• You can learn to make these loomed hats from yarn. A limited number of looms are available through our church to check out and share. Simply u-tube hats on a loom/ u-tube for instructions and simple to follow examples or ask Julie Ambrogi (903.602.6222) or Nancy Jenkins (505.269.0855) to teach and get you started.

• If you are interested in purchasing your own looms,  ask Julie to order your set OR order your own set through AMAZON.com ($19.95 gets you 4 looms of various sizes, pompom makers for the various sizes, a looming pick and a needle).  We are using Readaer Round Knitting Looms.

• If you do not want to mess with yarn and/or loom – DONATE to the project! This will be our God’s Work, Our Hands project during these months and donations will be used to purchase yarn or more looms.

• There is another way to be involved – IF YOU KNOW HOW TO KNIT OR CROCHET, (Bless you!) feel free to knit or crochet hats for Dignity Mission. Finished hats can be placed in the gray bin in the Welcome Center.

St. Paul has lots of yarn to offer for making these hats or yarn can be purchased. One skein of yarn can make 3 -5 hats depending on the size of the hat. We would love to have these hats being made and coming in with the last of the hats to come in at the end of July. In August we will welcome Pastor Koppel and Jan back, bless our project and send our hats to those needing warmth and encouragement in the harsh elements outside. We are blessed to be a blessing…. ~Julie Ambrogi, for the Sabbatical Team

Adopted Families is seeking a wheelchair. If you can provide one, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. ~Deborah Ash

The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community. Whatever you can give will be most welcome. Donation barrels are just inside the Narthex doors. Pet food is also needed. ~Nancy Matthews

From Local Partner Organizations

Offered by NM Conference of Churches:

ABQ Chamber Soloists Concert at St. Paul Sunday, 1 June at 2pm: The final concert of their season features:

 Javier Alvarez: Metro Chabacano
Henri Dutilleux: Ainsi la Nuit
Felix Mendelssohn: Octet for Strings, Op. 20 

A pre-concert talk with the musical director will take place at 1:15pm in Fellowship Hall. Tickets at: https://www.abqcs.com/

ABQ FaithWorks Update:

• Good Immigration News! Two asylum seekers in our program have been granted asylum in 2025 from an El Paso immigration judge! This is rare and unexpected!

• ID Clinics continue monthly at the Cathedral of St John and weekly at Central United Methodist. These assist both the precariously housed and immigrant populations.

• Thank you to St Terese Catholic and St Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal for hosting recent New Mexico Immigrant Law Center (NMILC) clinics that FaithWorks coordinates monthly with NMILC.

• Volunteer? FaithWorks has volunteer opportunities to support our eviction prevention program, to work directly with asylum-seeking families, and in general administration. Contact exec@abqfaithworks.org to get oriented, trained and assigned!

 FaithWorks’ Annual Report is posted in the Welcome Center.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

 RMS Synod Assembly is this Week! St. Paul is excited to be hosting the 2-day Immigration Summit Wednesday and Thursday, as well as the Assembly opening worship on Thursday evening. St. Paul’s voting members to the Assembly are: Deborah Ash and Sharon Hamilton.

May Update: Advocacy Connections from the ELCA advocacy office in Washington, D.C. Visit the link below for information on these topics and why they matter to the ELCA:

• Budget reconciliation advances via committee

• FEMA threats

• Advocacy with companion churches

• Humanitarian aid to Gaza

• Tax reforms

• Migration policy Updates

blogs.elca.org/advocacy/may-update-advocacy-connections-2025/

A Draft Social Message on Child Protection: The prevalence of child maltreatment in the U.S. is staggering. The ELCA’s draft social message on child protection outlines the church’s sacred responsibility to protect and nurture children. To strengthen this draft, share your suggestions during the public comment period by June 30: https://www.elca.org/faith/faith-and-society/current-social-writing-projects/child-protection

In the 2025 Global Mission Directory, meet current ELCA missionaries and see the ways in which God is calling us along the journey of accompaniment with our siblings in Christ throughout the world. This resource gives an overview of the ELCA’s global engagement.
https://resources.elca.org/global-mission/2025-global-mission-directory-pdf/ (A copy is posted in the Welcome Center).

Discover the 2025 Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) Season. LSM is thrilled to announce its 43rd season, featuring over 30 free concerts, recitals, and worship services open to the public. Hosted at Valparaiso University from June 22 to July 20, this season offers a vibrant lineup of musical experiences that will also be shared online via Live from LSM—bringing this summer's transformational experience to audiences around the world.
          Highlights include the Music and Worship Series, featuring the beloved Bach Cantata Eucharist, the inspiring Festival of Hymns, and the debut of the Faculty Organ Recital. During Festival Week, experience the culmination of the summer through powerful performances by the Festival Band, Orchestra, and Choir. Live from LSM access: LSMacademy.org/2025.

Lutherans Restoring Creation is a grassroots movement promoting care for creation in the ELCA, cultivating a community of dedicated stewards of earth and neighbor who proclaim God’s promise of hope and healing for all. A variety of events are listed in the community calendar (local to global, in-person and virtual): https://lutheransrestoringcreation.org/events/

A group of compassionate donors has come together to kick off a $130,000 Love Thy Neighbor matching gift challenge. Any gift you can make by June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar! Thank you for sharing your blessings with your neighbor today. Visit: https://lwr.org/

This week with Bread for the World: Join a special strategy briefing via Zoom May 19, at 6:00 p.m. (ET). The call will be a candid Q&A on domestic and international policy issues. Rev. Cho, President and CEO, will be joined by Sakeenah Shabazz, Deputy Director of the Policy and Research Institute department, and Dr. Christine M. Sequenzia, Senior International Policy Analyst of the Government Relations department. We are in unprecedented times. Inflation, program changes and cuts, food shortages, armed conflict, and extreme weather have pushed millions into chronic hunger and some to the brink of famine. Our leaders are grappling with what is America’s role in providing food and lifesaving aid at home and abroad. Registration is free, but you must register ahead of time. You can also submit a question for the panel when you sign up. Register at: https://go.bread.org/page/82418/-/1

This week with Global Refuge: You are invited to a virtual conversation between Rev. Eric Shafer, Global Refuge pastor in residence, and Rev. Dr. Richard Rouse, author of the newly published book ‘A Journey Called Hope.’ (Both are ELCA pastors.) During this time to learn more about the stories of resiliency of new Americans featured in the book, you will also have the chance to ask questions of the speakers. ‘A Journey Called Hope’ is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the lives of refugees and other immigrants. May 20, 7pm EDT/4pm PT. Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gU0dD8XGTHqeB5PckP-ZGQ?_ics=1744658639611&irclickid=#/registration

Updates Beginning 11 May 2025

Today after Worship: We are delighted to welcome an old friend of St. Paul, Kurt Rager, of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry--NM. He will share his wrap-up of the recently concluded, 60-day legislative session and progress they made, if any, in areas of concern to LAM and Christians in New Mexico congregations. He may also be able to discuss the future of advocacy ministry in New Mexico and plans for next year's session. His discussion begins after the service at 11:15 in the Conference Room. Bring your refreshments and your questions. It should be a good discussion.
            Keep an eye out next Sunday for the Ministry Fair, a chance for the various St. Paul ministries to show what they do and, importantly, show how you can be involved. Tables will be set up in the narthex after worship, and you'll be able wander among them at your own pace. Watch for it next week! ~Bob Matthews, for the Adult Faith Development Team

This Thursday, 15 May at 6pm: El Faro Concert at St. Paul. The youth choir of Coro Lux will be performing in the Sanctuary. Please come and enjoy this amazing choir! Free and open to the public. ~Deborah Ash

33 Bread for the World letters from St. Paul members will be delivered to our members of Congress this week and next, along with over 700 letters written in Albuquerque area congregations (Presbyterian, Methodist, Mennonite, UCC, Lutheran and Roman Catholic). If you haven't written your letters, information and addresses are available and the letters will be combined with several congregations who have yet to hold their Offering of Letters effort. They will be delivered later to the local offices of our members of Congress. Hungry children and mothers around the world thank you for your work in combating nutrition problems. ~Paul Gallegos and Ivan Westergaard

Reminder for Rummage Sale scheduled June 14th: If you would like to participate in the Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th, Saturday, from 8 am to 4 pm, you are able to stage items in the library on the left-hand side of the room for now. Please price your items according to what you think is the value.  We will also have a Salvation Army Truck scheduled to arrive close to 4:00 pm and they will take away any unwanted items.  Please reach out to me on Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9am to 2pm via call to the Office or email (facilities@stpaulabq.org).
I will be able to assist you in bringing items into the library if help is needed.  Please keep items organized in boxes, or bags with your name on them.  If you have larger furniture items, we ask that you bring them the day prior to the Rummage Sale.  If you have smaller furniture items, there should be room in the library.
I hope this idea is a success in raising money to assist the Roof expenses, as all sales will go to the Roof Fund as a donation. Thank you for your participation. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Adopted Families has an older gentleman in need of a wheelchair. If you are able to provide one, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. A shower chair was donated. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash

May’s God’s Work Our Hands Project is: Hats for Dignity Mission. During Pastor Koppel’s Sabbatical leave (May, June, July) our congregation is participating in a collaborative effort to make hats to donate in the fall of 2025 to Dignity Mission. There are several ways you can participate in this Congregational Project:

• You can learn to make these loomed hats from yarn. A limited number of looms are available through our church to check out and share. Simply u-tube hats on a loom/ u-tube for instructions and simple to follow examples or ask Julie Ambrogi (903.602.6222) or Nancy Jenkins (505.269.0855) to teach and get you started.

• If you are interested in purchasing your own looms,  ask Julie to order your set OR order your own set through AMAZON.com ($19.95 gets you 4 looms of various sizes, pompom makers for the various sizes, a looming pick and a needle).  We are using Readaer Round Knitting Looms.

• If you do not want to mess with yarn and/or loom – DONATE to the project! This will be our God’s Work, Our Hands project during these months and donations will be used to purchase yarn or more looms.

• There is another way to be involved – IF YOU KNOW HOW TO KNIT OR CROCHET, (Bless you!) feel free to knit or crochet hats for Dignity Mission. Finished hats can be placed in the gray bin in the Welcome Center.

St. Paul has lots of yarn to offer for making these hats or yarn can be purchased. One skein of yarn can make 3 -5 hats depending on the size of the hat. We would love to have these hats being made and coming in with the last of the hats to come in at the end of July. In August we will welcome Pastor Koppel and Jan back, bless our project and send our hats to those needing warmth and encouragement in the harsh elements outside. We are blessed to be a blessing ……. ~Hal Nilsson, Deb Ash, Sara Love, Pastor Patrick Van De Motter, Pastor Koppel, Julie Ambrogi

Storehouse Food: The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community.  Need more ideas for food donations?  Here are 3 more:

1. Fruit (dried, canned or small cups)              

2. Canned vegetables

3. Snack items (crackers, granola bars, fruit bars, protein bars, etc.)

I hope this helps you when you're shopping!  Whatever you give will be most welcome. The barrels for donations are just inside the Narthex doors.   Pet food is also needed. Thanks!  ~Nancy Matthews

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

From Local Partner Organizations

ABQ FaithWorks Update:

• Good Immigration News! Two asylum seekers in our program have been granted asylum in 2025 from an El Paso immigration judge! This is rare and unexpected!

• ID Clinics continue monthly at the Cathedral of St John and weekly at Central United Methodist. These assist both the precariously housed and immigrant populations.

• Thank you to St Terese Catholic and St Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal for hosting recent New Mexico Immigrant Law Center (NMILC) clinics that FaithWorks coordinates monthly with NMILC.

• Volunteer? FaithWorks has volunteer opportunities to support our eviction prevention program, to work directly with asylum-seeking families, and in general administration. Contact exec@abqfaithworks.org to get oriented, trained and assigned!

FaithWorks’ Annual Report is posted in the Welcome Center.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

From Bishop Meghan:
Dear friends in Christ, good news! I am overjoyed to share that our Office of the Bishop team is complete. This month, we are introducing two new directors for Evangelical Missions, Director of Evangelical Mission (DEM)–North and DEM–South. We welcome Rev. Quirino Cornejo (QC) as DEM-South, and Rev. Chris Davis as DEM-North and Synod Minister for Generosity.
          Father QC, DEM–South, ordained in the Episcopal Church (USA), is well known to many in our synod as our Minister for Multicultural Witness and former mission developer pastor for Cristo Rey/Christ the King in Denver, CO. Last fall, Father QC stepped into the role of acting DEM, accompanying many of our SAWCs (Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities) and other strategic ministries. In the DEM-South role, Father QC will continue serving half time with the Rocky Mountain Synod and half time with our partners in the Episcopal Diocese of Colorado. His portfolio will include New Mexico, El Paso, and part of Colorado.
          Pastor Chris begins his call as DEM-North and Synod Minister for Generosity on May 15. Pastor Chris has served as a mission developer and pastor in three congregations in the Rocky Mountain Synod, most recently at Trinity, Loveland, CO. Pastor Chris will be serving half time as DEM with a portfolio including Utah, Wyoming, and part of Colorado; the other half of his call as Synod Minister for Generosity will focus on supporting stewardship, mission support, grants, and other efforts to build financial capacity throughout the synod.
          The role of the Director for Evangelical Mission (DEM) focuses on new and revitalized ministries. DEMs work to create partnerships between congregations, and equip synod members to share the Gospel in their communities. DEMs also serve as a bridge between synods and the wider church. The role of the Director for Evangelical Mission is a grant-supported partnership between the ELCA Churchwide Office and synods. 

Equipping the Saints:

“But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift…to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:7, 12)

As our RMS synod staff team met last week for a retreat to pray, build relationships, and ponder our “why,” one word came up more than any other: equip. Many have been asking, “what is the role of the synod, and the synod office, in this time?” The verse above from Ephesians offers a clear vision: the grace we have received, and our variety of gifts and roles, is for a purpose: to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.
          It is our hope and prayer that this team continues to grow in our capacity to accompany the people and ministries of our Rocky Mountain Synod with the support, connection, and resources we need to be equipped to follow Jesus and the call of the Holy Spirit in love and service to our neighbors.

Today: Share Your Story—All Are Welcome! The 2025 Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly theme is” Dios está aquí. God is here.” We know that God is everywhere and we invite you to share your story of how God is present in your life and in your context. To share a few sentences and if you'd like, a corresponding picture of how God is with you, submit your story by May 11:
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/ea68c075fa02415d949b54d686f9c602
[With your permission, your stories and photos may be featured during the Assembly in Albuquerque, May 22–24, and in Synod communications like the eConnection and social media.]

Register at: https://tithe.ly/event-registration/#/9846002 (held at St. Paul)

ELCA Church Council Takes Action for 2025 Churchwide Assembly. The Church Council gathered at the Lutheran Center in Chicago, April 3-6. The council serves as the ELCA churchwide organization’s board of directors and interim legislative authority between meetings of a churchwide assembly. The council’s work, grounded in faith in Jesus Christ, focused on actions that will go before the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Phoenix, July 26-Aug. 2. (Note: Rindra Josoa is a Council member!)
https://www.elca.org/news-and-events/elca-church-council-takes-action-for-2025-churchwide-assembly

A Draft Social Message on Child Protection: The prevalence of child maltreatment in the U.S. is staggering. The ELCA’s draft social message on child protection outlines the church’s sacred responsibility to protect and nurture children. To strengthen this draft, share your suggestions during the public comment period by June 30: https://www.elca.org/faith/faith-and-society/current-social-writing-projects/child-protection

North America-Holy Land Solidarity Visit Statement: Read a statement from Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land Bishop Sani-Ibrahim Azar, ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada National Bishop Susan Johnson on a visit of solidarity to the Holy Land: https://www.elca.org/news-and-events/north-america--holy-land-solidarity-visit-statement

In the 2025 Global Mission Directory, meet current ELCA missionaries and see the ways in which God is calling us along the journey of accompaniment with our siblings in Christ throughout the world. This resource gives an overview of the ELCA’s global engagement.
https://resources.elca.org/global-mission/2025-global-mission-directory-pdf/
(A copy is posted in the Welcome Center).

ELCA is hosting a donor immersion trip to Argentina and Chile Oct. 3-13. Donors will meet with local partners and learn more about the ministries that the ELCA supports, including Educación Popular en Salud, the United Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile. Learn more at: https://resources.elca.org/leadership-circle/argentina-chile-donor-immersion-trip-2025/

Lutherans Restoring Creation is a grassroots movement promoting care for creation in the ELCA, cultivating a community of dedicated stewards of earth and neighbor who proclaim God’s promise of hope and healing for all. A variety of events are listed in the community calendar (local to global, in-person and virtual): https://lutheransrestoringcreation.org/events/

This week: Bread for the World May Regional Online Meetings. You’ll receive critical updates on hunger-related legislation and funding—some of which hangs in the balance with Congress right now. Our meetings will feature an update on Bread for the World’s 2025 Offering of Letters and other hunger-related legislation, as well as information about the upcoming Advocacy Summit in Washington, DC. You will also hear from and connect with Bread members in your state or region and consider timely actions you can take to advocate for a world without hunger.
West, Southwest, and Midwest Combined Regional Online Meetings

• Option 1: Tuesday, May 13 at 7:00 p.m. EDT (4:00 p.m. PDT)

• Option 2: Wednesday, May 14 at 2:00 p.m. EDT (11:00 a.m. PDT)

There’s too much at stake to sit this out. Register at:
https://go.bread.org/page/81573/survey/1?_gl=1*1ul7wti*_gcl_au*MTkxMzA4MzA4Ni4xNzQ1NTk1MzM1

Bread for the World: Join a special strategy briefing via Zoom May 19, at 6:00 p.m. (ET). The call will be a candid Q&A on domestic and international policy issues. Rev. Cho, President and CEO, will be joined by Sakeenah Shabazz, Deputy Director of the Policy and Research Institute department, and Dr. Christine M. Sequenzia, Senior International Policy Analyst of the Government Relations department. We are in unprecedented times. Inflation, program changes and cuts, food shortages, armed conflict, and extreme weather have pushed millions into chronic hunger and some to the brink of famine. Our leaders are grappling with what is America’s role in providing food and lifesaving aid at home and abroad. Registration is free, but you must register ahead of time. You can also submit a question for the panel when you sign up. Register at: https://go.bread.org/page/82418/-/1

Global Refuge: You are invited to a virtual conversation between Rev. Eric Shafer, Global Refuge pastor in residence, and Rev. Dr. Richard Rouse, author of the newly published book ‘A Journey Called Hope.’ (Both are ELCA pastors.) During this time to learn more about the stories of resiliency of new Americans featured in the book, you will also have the chance to ask questions of the speakers. ‘A Journey Called Hope’ is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the lives of refugees and other immigrants. May 20, 7pm EDT/4pm PT. Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gU0dD8XGTHqeB5PckP-ZGQ?_ics=1744658639611&irclickid=#/registration

Updates Beginning 4 May 2025

Today after Worship: Exploration of “The Beatitudes” continues. We will meet after worship in the conference room from 11:15am to 12:15pm. We’ll explore and discuss and learn from each other. What are the Beatitudes? How do they relate to us today? What is the meaning of “blessed are”? The facilitators don’t have the complete answers to these and other questions, but we invite the discussion. We need your input, and we look forward to seeing you for this study. ~The Adult Faith Development Team: Bob Matthews, Jan Krakow, Jane Voelkel, Teresa Dubuque

Today: CPR Training at 11:30am. Project Heart Start (Albuquerque Academy students) will be providing a one-hour training on CPR. Pick up your coffee and snacks after worship then head to Fellowship Hall. We hope you can attend this important training! ~Patrick Rabezanany

Today: Letters to Congress in conjunction with Bread for the World: St. Paul is a long-time member of Bread for the World and every year we have participated in writing letters to our members of Congress regarding hunger in the U.S. and around the world. This year's effort is particularly important due to proposed changes in the Farm Bill, WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, Food Stamps and other programs that reduce or discontinue the assistance that they provide to struggling families and children. You are invited today to write your Senators and Representative and express your concern. We will have draft letters, addresses, etc. available for you to write after worship or take home to write. We will gather the letters for a "blessing" and get them to Carlos Navarro, who will deliver them, with letters from other participating congregations, directly to the local offices of our Congress members. ~Ivan Westergaard

El Faro Concert at St. Paul 15 May at 6pm. The youth choir of Coro Lux will be performing in the Sanctuary. Please come and enjoy this amazing choir! Free and open to the public. ~Deborah Ash

Adopted Families has an older gentleman in need of both a shower bench and a wheelchair. If you are able to provide either or both, please drop off at the church office or pickup can be arranged. Thank you! ~Deborah Ash

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

Reminder for Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th: If you would like to participate in the Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th, Saturday, from 8 am to 4 pm, you are able to stage items in the library on the left-hand side of the room for now. Please price your items according to what you think is the value.  We will also have a Salvation Army Truck scheduled to arrive close to 4:00 pm and they will take away any unwanted items.  Please reach out to me on Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9am to 2pm via call to the Office or email (facilities@stpaulabq.org).
I will be able to assist you in bringing items into the library if help is needed.  Please keep items organized in boxes, or bags with your name on them.  If you have larger furniture items, we ask that you bring them the day prior to the Rummage Sale.  If you have smaller furniture items, there should be room in the library. 
I hope this idea is a success in raising money to assist the Roof expenses, as all sales will go to the Roof Fund as a donation. Thank you for your participation. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

May’s God’s Work Our Hands Project is: Hats for Dignity Mission. During Pastor Koppel’s Sabbatical leave (May, June, July) our congregation will be participating in a collaborative effort to make hats to donate in the fall of 2025 to Dignity Mission. There are several ways you can participate in this Congregational Project:

• You can learn to make these loomed hats from yarn. A limited number of looms are available through our church to check out and share. Simply u-tube hats on a loom/ u-tube for instructions and simple to follow examples or ask Julie Ambrogi (903.602.6222) or Nancy Jenkins (505.269.0855) to teach and get you started.

• If you are interested in purchasing your own looms – SIMPLE – ask Julie to order your set OR order your own set through AMAZON.com ($19.95 gets you 4 looms of various sizes, pompom makers for the various sizes, a looming pick and a needle).  We are using Readaer Round Knitting Looms.

• If you do not want to mess with the yarn and/or loom – DONATE to the project! This will be our God’s Work, Our Hands project during these months and a check or cash will be used to purchase yarn or more looms.

• There is another way to be involved – IF YOU KNOW HOW TO KNIT OR CROCHET, (Bless you!) feel free to knit or crochet hats for Dignity Mission. Finished hats can be placed in the gray bin located in the Welcome Center.

St. Paul has lots of yarn to offer for making these hats or yarn can be purchased. One skein of yarn can make 3 -5 hats depending on the size of the hat. We would love to have these hats being made and coming in with the last of the hats to come in at the end of July. In August we will welcome Pastor Koppel and Jan back, bless our project and send our hats to those needing warmth and encouragement in the harsh elements outside. We are blessed to be a blessing ……. ~Hal Nilsson, Deb Ash, Sara Love, Pastor Patrick Van De Motter, Pastor Koppel, Julie Ambrogi

Storehouse Food: The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community.  Need more ideas for food donations?  Here are 3 more:

1. Fruit (dried, canned or small cups)              

2. Canned vegetables

3. Snack items (crackers, granola bars, fruit bars, protein bars, etc.)

I hope this helps you when you're shopping!  Whatever you give will be most welcome. The barrels for donations are just inside the Narthex doors.   Pet food is also needed. Thanks!  ~Nancy Matthews 

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

A Message from Bishop Meghan: Dear friends in Christ, sometime during the past week—filled with a trip to Arizona for our first call pastors and deacons retreat, plans for this week’s staff retreat and our upcoming synod assembly, phone calls and meetings with rostered ministers, and many emails—I suddenly realized that it has been one year since my election as bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod. In the first nine months serving in this call, I have been humbled, awed, and overwhelmed with joy (and emails!) by the blessing of being your bishop. I am excited to see our Office of the Bishop team coming together and to be turning our energy and attention to how God is calling us into the future. In all the troubles and the joys of the world, and this ministry, two things have continued to be true: Dios está aquí—God is here! And we are not alone.
          God is here, in the people and ministries of this synod. God is with us, in all that we face. And we are not required, expected, or designed to go it alone. God calls us into community. As we look ahead to our calling as this part of Christ’s church to proclaim and embody that good news for the sake of the world, we need the diverse gifts that this community brings.
I hope you know that I’m praying for you and for your community too, for the ways you live out that Gospel call where you are. In Christ, +Bishop Meghan

Share Your Story—All Are Welcome! The 2025 Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly theme is” Dios está aquí. God is here.” We know that God is everywhere and we invite you to share your story of how God is present in your life and in your context. To share a few sentences and if you'd like, a corresponding picture of how God is with you, submit your story by May 9:
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/ea68c075fa02415d949b54d686f9c602
[With your permission, your stories and photos may be featured during the Assembly in Albuquerque, May 22–24, and in Synod communications like the eConnection and social media.]

Register at: https://tithe.ly/event-registration/#/9846002 (held at St. Paul)

Lutherans Restoring Creation Network Events: A variety of events are listed in the community calendar (local to global, in-person and virtual): https://lutheransrestoringcreation.org/events/

This week: Next Coffee with Christine is May 7th: Join Christine Moffett, ELCA’s Program Director for Environment and Energy Policy for coffee and discussion! Feel free to ask your questions about Federal policy, especially environment. Knowledge is power! bit.ly/coffee-christine

ELCA is hosting a donor immersion trip to Argentina and Chile Oct. 3-13. Donors will meet with local partners and learn more about the ministries that the ELCA supports, including Educación Popular en Salud, the United Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile. Learn more at: https://resources.elca.org/leadership-circle/argentina-chile-donor-immersion-trip-2025/

Bread for the World: I am writing to invite you to join a special strategy briefing via Zoom on Monday, May 19, at 6:00 p.m. (ET). The call will be a candid Q&A on our domestic and international policy issues. I’ll be joined by Bread for the World’s Sakeenah Shabazz, Deputy Director of the Policy and Research Institute department, and Dr. Christine M. Sequenzia, Senior International Policy Analyst of the Government Relations department.
We are in unprecedented times. Inflation, program changes and cuts, food shortages, armed conflict, and extreme weather have pushed millions into chronic hunger and some to the brink of famine. Our leaders are grappling with what is America’s role in providing food and lifesaving aid at home and abroad. Registration is free, but you must register ahead of time. You can also submit a question for the panel when you sign up. Register today at: https://go.bread.org/page/82418/-/1

Global Refuge: You are invited to join us for a virtual conversation between Rev. Eric Shafer, Global Refuge pastor in residence, and Rev. Dr. Richard Rouse, author of the newly published book ‘A Journey Called Hope.’ Both are ELCA pastors. During this time to learn more about the stories of resiliency of new Americans featured in the book, you will also have the chance to ask questions of the speakers. ‘A Journey Called Hope’ is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the lives of refugees and other immigrants, and can be a great resource for your congregation, book club, or small group. Join us. When: Tuesday, May 20, 7pm EDT/4pm PT. Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gU0dD8XGTHqeB5PckP-ZGQ?_ics=1744658639611&irclickid=#/registration

Updates Beginning 27 April 2025

Today after Worship: You are invited to participate in a two-part exploration of “The Beatitudes,” the upcoming offering by the Adult Faith Development team. We will meet after worship in the conference room on April 27th and May 4th, from 11:15am to 12:15pm. We’ll explore and discuss and learn from each other. What are the Beatitudes? How do they relate to us today? What is the meaning of “blessed are.” The facilitators don’t have the complete answer to these and other questions, but we invite the discussion. We need your input, and we look forward to seeing you for this study. ~The Adult Faith Development Team: Bob Matthews, Jan Krakow, Jane Voelkel, Teresa Dubuque

Letters to Congress in conjunction with Bread for the World: St. Paul is a long-time member of Bread for the World and every year we have participated in writing letters to our members of Congress regarding hunger in the U.S. and around the world. This year's effort is particularly important due to proposed changes in the Farm Bill, WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, Food Stamps and other programs that reduce or discontinue the assistance that they provide to struggling families and children. You are invited today and next Sunday (April 27 and May 4), to write your Senators and Representative and express your concern. We will have draft letters, addresses, etc. available for you to write after worship or take home to write. On May 4, we will gather the letters for a "blessing" and get them to Carlos Navarro, who will deliver them, with letters from other participating congregations, directly to the local offices of our Congress members. For more information, the first few minutes of today’s Adult Faith Development class in the Conference Room will be about this. ~Ivan Westergaard

Today: Do you feel strongly about social justice issues? Do you often think, "I'm just one person, what can I do to turn this situation around?" If you said yes to one or both of these questions; you might want to come to an orientation for SURJ (Showing Up for Racial Justice). We will have a new member orientation followed by a social gathering on Sunday, April 27. Register at bit.ly/4jTxVqH.
SURJ meets every fourth Sunday of the month, beginning with a potluck at noon at Nahalat Shalom 3606 Rio Grande NW. So if you are interested please fill out the link or RSVP to Diane Remer-Thamert 505/362-4134. Hope to see you there! Thanks. ~iusti Remer-Thamert

Next Sunday: CPR Training being held at St. Paul, 4 May, 11:30am. Project Heart Start (Albuquerque Academy students) will be providing a one-hour training on CPR. Pick up your coffee and snacks after worship then head to Fellowship Hall. We hope you can attend this important training! ~Patrick Rabezanany

April’s God’s Work Our Hands project: We are collecting funds for the Madagascar Girls Camp. On your check to St. Paul, please note Girls Camp in the memo line. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Congratulations to Patrick Rabezanany! Patrick, who received a scholarship from St. Paul in Fall 2024, graduates May 16 with his doctoral degree in Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg. All the very best from all of us, Patrick! ~Deborah Ash

Reminder for Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th: If you would like to participate in the Rummage Sale scheduled for June 14th, Saturday from 8 am to 4 pm, you are able to stage items in the library on the left-hand side of the room for now. Please price your items according to what you think is the value.  We will also have a Salvation Army Truck scheduled to arrive close to 4:00 pm and they will take away any unwanted items.  Please reach out to me on Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9am to 2pm via call to the Office or email (facilities@stpaulabq.org).
I will be able to assist you in bringing items into the library if help is needed.  Please keep items organized in boxes, or bags with your name on them.  If you have larger furniture items, we ask that you bring them the day prior to the Rummage Sale.  If you have smaller furniture items, there should be room in the library. 
I hope this idea is a success in raising money to assist the Roof expenses, as all sales will go to the Roof Fund as a donation. Thank you for your participation. ~Jolene Gallegos, Facilities Coordinator

Storehouse Food: The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community.  Need more ideas for food donations?  Here are 3 more:

1)   Fruit (dried, canned or small cups)               2) Canned vegetables

3)   Snack items (crackers, granola bars, fruit bars, protein bars, etc.)

I hope this helps you when you're shopping!  Whatever you give will be most welcome. The barrels for donations are just inside the Narthex doors. 
Pet food is also needed and has been in short supply per their staff. Thanks!  ~Nancy Matthews

Hats for Dignity Mission. During Pastor Koppel’s Sabbatical leave (May, June, July) our congregation will be participating in a collaborative effort to make hats to donate in the fall of 2025 to Dignity Mission. There are several ways you can participate in this Congregational Project:

• You can learn to make these loomed hats from yarn. A limited number of looms are available through our church to check out and share. Simply u-tube hats on a loom/ u-tube for instructions and simple to follow examples or ask Julie Ambrogi (903.602.6222) or Nancy Jenkins (505.269.0855) to teach and get you started.

• If you are interested in purchasing your own looms – SIMPLE – ask Julie to order your set OR order your own set through AMAZON.com ($19.95 gets you 4 looms of various sizes, pompom makers for the various sizes, a looming pick and a needle) .  We are using Readaer Round Knitting Looms.

• If you do not want to mess with the yarn and/or loom – DONATE to the project! This will be our God’s Work, Our Hands project during these months and a check or cash will be used to purchase yarn or more looms.

• There is another way to be involved – IF YOU KNOW HOW TO KNIT OR CROCHET, (Bless you!) feel free to knit or crochet hats for Dignity Mission. Finished hats can be placed in the gray bin located in the Welcome Center.

St. Paul has lots of yarn to offer for making these hats or yarn can be purchased. One skein of yarn can make 3 -5 hats depending on the size of the hat. We would love to have these hats being made and coming in with the last of the hats to come in at the end of July. In August we will welcome Pastor Koppel and Jan back, bless our project and send our hats to those needing warmth and encouragement in the harsh elements outside. We are blessed to be a blessing ……. ~Hal Nilsson, Deb Ash, Sara Love, Pastor Patrick Van De Motter, Pastor Koppel, Julie Ambrogi

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Van De Motter

From Local Partner Organizations

This week: Church Women United, an ecumenical Christian women’s fellowship, will be celebrating May Friendship Day this Friday, May 2nd at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 2626 Arizona Ave NE.  The morning will begin at 9:30 with coffee fellowship, followed by the program whose theme is ”God’s Daughters Living Powerful Lives”. Ruth Tribou, of CWU in NM, will speak on “The Qualities That Make Us Loving Friends.”  The Fellowship of the Least Coin offering will be taken.  St. John’s has asked that we use the “West” parking lot off Arizona Ave. Please join the celebration and bring a friend!  Questions?  Contact Shirley Nilsson at 505-463-3657 or email her at sfnils@swcp.com.

From the Rocky Mountain Synod and ELCA

Video Greetings from the young adults of Palestine. Hear how Dios está aquí, God is here, in the midst of struggle, hope, and faith. Mr. Simon Awad, Executive Director of the Environmental Education Center, visited the Synod March 28–31, where he and two young adults from the ELCJHL presented about their work at the EEC, and the Palestinian Christian experience in relation to indigenous land rights and environmental justice. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, a direct partner of the ELCA, serves in occupied East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Jordan. One of their commitments to their Lutheran faith is to answer our call to be stewards of the land. Visit https://vimeo.com/1075896868?share=copy

Register at: https://tithe.ly/event-registration/#/9846002 (held at St. Paul)

Lutherans Restoring Creation Network Events: A variety of events are listed in the community calendar (local to global, in-person and virtual): https://lutheransrestoringcreation.org/events/

Next Coffee with Christine is May 7th: Join Christine Moffett for coffee and discussion! Feel free to ask your questions about Federal policy, especially environment. Knowledge is power! bit.ly/coffee-christine

This week: Global Refuge: The First 100 Days: Our Work of Welcome Continues. Join Global Refuge to discuss how the first 100 days of the new administration have impacted immigration policy, our work, and the families we serve. We’ll discuss our next steps as an organization, how we are forging ahead in the work of welcome, and ways you can continue to support those who seek refuge. The webinar will include a Q&A.  Wednesday, April 30, 1pm ET on Zoom. Register at: https://globalrefuge-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0NdulsENQ4u1tBWjcCZTtw?mc_cid=b20c972c6e&mc_eid=2f360c0226#/registration

From Bread for the World: Easter Reflection on Hope and Hunger. It is easy to feel confused, angry, afraid, discouraged, and devastated when we see devastating cuts to USAID funding and staff, budget proposals that cut funding to vital programs like SNAP and Medicaid, and executive orders that push the limits of our democracy. However, it is important to remember that we are not alone. Read (President & CEO) Rev. Eugene Cho’s reflection at: https://www.bread.org/article/my-easter-reflection-on-hope-and-hunger/

Updates Beginning 20 April 2025

From Adult Faith Development: You are invited to participate in a two-part exploration of “The Beatitudes,” the upcoming offering by the Adult Faith Development team. We will meet after worship in the conference room on April 27th and May 4th, from 11:15am to 12:15pm. We’ll explore and discuss and learn from each other. What are the Beatitudes? How do they relate to us today? What is the meaning of “blessed are.” The facilitators don’t have the complete answer to these and other questions, but we invite the discussion. We need your input, and we look forward to seeing you for this study. ~The AFD Team: Bob Matthews, Jan Krakow, Jane Voelkel, Teresa Dubuque

Letters to Congress in conjunction with Bread for the World: St. Paul is a long-time member of Bread for the World and every year we have participated in writing letters to our members of Congress regarding hunger in the U.S. and around the world. This year's effort is particularly important due to proposed changes in the Farm Bill, WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, Food Stamps and other programs that reduce or discontinue the assistance that they provide to struggling families and children. You are invited these next two Sundays (April 27 and May 4), to write your Senators and Representative and express your concern. We will have draft letters, addresses,etc. available for you to write after worship or take home to write. On May 4, we will gather the letters for a "blessing" and get them to Carlos Navarro, who will deliver them, with letters from other participating congregations, directly to the local offices of our Congress members. For more information, the first few minutes of Adult Faith Development class (April 27, after worship, in the Conference Room) will be about this. ~Ivan Westergaard

Do you feel strongly about social justice issues? Do you often think, "I'm just one person, what can I do to turn this situation around?" If you said yes to one or both of these questions; you might want to come to an orientation for SURJ (Showing Up for Racial Justice). We will have a new member orientation followed by a social gathering on Sunday, April 27. Register at bit.ly/4jTxVqH
SURJ meets every fourth Sunday of the month, beginning with a potluck at noon at Nahalat Shalom 3606 Rio Grande NW. So if you are interested please fill out the link or RSVP to Diane Remer-Thamert 505/362-4134. Hope to see you there! Thanks. ~iusti Remer-Thamert

Visiting today? Please fill out a “Welcome” card in your pew so we can get to know you! ~Pr. Koppel

CPR Training being held at St. Paul, Sunday, 4 May, 11:30am. Project Heart Start (Albuquerque Academy students) will be providing a one-hour training on CPR. Pick up your coffee and snacks after worship then head to Fellowship Hall. We hope you can attend this important training! ~Patrick Rabezanany

April’s God’s Work Our Hands project: We are collecting funds for the Madagascar Girls Camp. On your check to St. Paul, please note Girls Camp in the memo line. Thanks! ~Deborah Ash & Nancy Jenkins

Pre-order your St. Paul T-shirt! We will be selling St. Paul T-shirts as a way to raise funds for our Pride Parade presence! The signup sheet is in the Welcome Center so please get one ordered!  Perhaps we can arrange for a congregational group photo, sporting our colorful shirts! Thanks, in advance! ~Jan Bowers

Hats for Dignity Mission. During Pastor Koppel’s Sabbatical leave (May, June, July) our congregation will be participating in a collaborative effort to make hats to donate in the fall of 2025 to Dignity Mission. There are several ways you can participate in this Congregational Project:

• You can learn to make these loomed hats from yarn. A limited number of looms are available through our church to check out and share. Simply u-tube hats on a loom/ u-tube for instructions and simple to follow examples or ask Julie Ambrogi (903.602.6222) or Nancy Jenkins (505.269.0855) to teach and get you started.

• If you are interested in purchasing your own looms – SIMPLE – ask Julie to order your set OR order your own set through AMAZON.com ($19.95 gets you 4 looms of various sizes, pompom makers for the various sizes, a looming pick and a needle) .  We are using Readaer Round Knitting Looms.

• If you do not want to mess with the yarn and/or loom – DONATE to the project! This will be our God’s Work, Our Hands project during these months and a check or cash will be used to purchase yarn or more looms.

• There is another way to be involved – IF YOU KNOW HOW TO KNIT OR CROCHET, (Bless you!) feel free to knit or crochet hats for Dignity Mission. Finished hats can be placed in the gray bin located in the Welcome Center.

St. Paul has lots of yarn to offer for making these hats or yarn can be purchased. One skein of yarn can make 3 -5 hats depending on the size of the hat. We would love to have these hats being made and coming in with the last of the hats to come in at the end of July. In August we will welcome Pastor Koppel and Jan back, bless our project and send our hats to those needing warmth and encouragement in the harsh elements outside. We are blessed to be a blessing ……. ~Hal Nilsson, Deb Ash, Sara Love, Pastor Patrick Van De Motter, Pastor Koppel, Julie Ambrogi

Storehouse Food: The Storehouse provides food to many of the neediest in our community.  Need more ideas for food donations?  Here are 3 more:

1)   Fruit (dried, canned or small cups)  
2) Canned vegetables
3)   Snack items (crackers, granola bars, fruit bars, protein bars, etc.)