Thoughts from Your President ......
Kay Pushman
January 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
Happy New Year! 2024, as in all years, brought our church many blessings and some sadness. We have been so fortunate that Bishop Finck has agreed to be our interim pastor, has re-instituted our Bible Study, and our attendance on Sunday has increased significantly since he came. We have had people come to membership, have brought back some members that had not been active, and many Sundays we have visitors attending. Our finances are in good shape, as we have several people that have blessed us with large donations some year-end, and some monthly. Indeed, we have much to be thankful for. However, the saddest time in 2024 was the passing of our dear Pastor Gil, who led our congregation lovingly for 17 years. We are so very fortunate to have known him, and had him as our Pastor. We also mourned the loss of Jerry Brady, who served as the leadership of our Church for so many years.
I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas with friends and family. Our Advent Suppers and Christmas Eve service were especially meaningful. We have learned so much from Bishop Finck’s teaching, and they always lead into such thought-provoking comments. Adding to that the time visiting and sharing a delicious meal was particularly rewarding. Unfortunately, we have had several members with a long-lasting virus, and a few that have had injuries. It’s always so sad when some of us cannot be there during this special time of the church year. Many thanks to all of the volunteers that help to make our Christmas season so successful. Each of you is sincerely appreciated.
We have several issued with regard to our property. The wonderful rain brings with it water seeping into our Fellowship Hall. To help alleviate that problem, Orange County Pump has done some preventative maintenance on our pumps, and found one is not working. We are waiting on an estimate of repair or replacement. My son, who has a good understanding of sound systems, has set our speakers to the correct level, and will move one of the speakers to give us better sound. We are hoping this will help our members hear every word of Bishop Finck’s inspirational messages. The loss of our furnace brings us on Sunday mornings to a very chilly sanctuary. We are looking into how we can replace our heating system, and will keep you informed as we move along in this project.
When this newsletter reaches you, it will be the beginning of a new year; a time of reflection and new opportunities. You will be receiving your sealed pledge card asking you to prayerfully consider all of your gifts to your church including your time and talents. If you are able, I hope you will find a way to be more involved in the working of your church. There are some of you that have been very active in the past, and cannot serve any longer. For those years of dedication, we are so very grateful, and we have others that will help to fill those needs.
It was an honor to have served as your President in 2024. I am so fortunate that I had such an amazing congregation that were always ready to help, and support me whenever they could, a wise, hard-working Council, a church secretary that always helps to make things run smoothly, a dedicated organist and choir that add so much to our worship service, and, of course, the opportunity to work with a dedicated man like Reverend Finck, who brought such life back to Redeemer and St. Theodore’s.
As always, thank you for allowing me to serve.
Kay Pushman
Council President
February 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
I hope this article finds you well and filled with the peace and joy of God's Love. I am reaching out today with gratitude as we begin a new year to continue to work together to build a stronger, more vibrant church community.
We remain deeply thankful for the spiritual leadership of our interim pastor, The Rev. Murray Finck, Bishop Emeritus who continues to bless us with his Sunday messages and Bible Study sessions on Wednesdays. His teachings and wisdom inspire us all, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of every opportunity to learn from him as he guides us in faith and understanding.
I am pleased to announce that the Church Council has elected new officers who will serve our congregation in the coming term. These dedicated individuals have accepted their call to lead and serve our church community with faith and commitment.
The newly elected officers are:
President: Kay Pushman, Vice President: Wendy Alfageme, Treasurer: Doris Weinert and Secretary: Nancy Anderson. Doris Weinert has agreed to continue as Finance Chair, and the rest of the Council consists of Susan Avila, Carol Costello, Sandra Langdale, Carmen Leslie, Betty Lucero, Sylvia Makus, Linda Peters and Michael Vanvales. This group of dedicated Church Members play a vital role in our congregation. These leaders not only chair and serve on committees, but also help guide decisions about the workings of our church, ensuring that our ministry thrives and our mission is fulfilled. This new Council will be officially installed during the Second Congregational Meeting, which will take place on Sunday, March 2 immediately following the worship service in the Sanctuary.
During this meeting, we will also:
*Elect two members to represent our congregation at the Pacifica Synod Assembly 2025, which will be held on May 16-17, 2025, at Gloria Dei Lutheran in Dana Point California. This assembly provides a wonderful opportunity for our representatives to engage with others in the Pacifica Synod, participate in decision-making, and be part of shaping the wider ministry of our church. We invite all members to prayerfully consider representing our congregation at this important assembly. If you feel called to serve in this capacity, please let me know before the meeting.
*Receive and review the Annual Reports from our various committees, highlighting all the wonderful work accomplished in the past year.
We encourage everyone to attend this important gathering of our congregation as we reflect on the past year, plan for the future and affirm our commitment to serving God together.
With heartfelt thanks for the privilege of serving this congregation,
Kay Pushman
Council President
August 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
July has been a very exciting month for at our July 13, 2025 Congregational Meeting, we unanimously voted to accept the Council's Resolution to have Greenwood Heating and Air install HVAC systems in our Sanctuary, offices, and fellowship hall. We sincerely owe Reverend Finck a debt of gratitude, as this wouldn't have happened without his diligence. He alone worked with vendors, and went to the Pacifica Synod and the Episcopalian Diocese for financial help. Consequently, after their help, we are working to raise the final $15,000 using the “Blessed To Be Two Blessings” (B2B2B), which was voted on and accepted by the Church Council at the July 16, 2025 meeting. 90% will be applied toward our HVAC system cost, and 10% of the funds raised will be donated to the non-profit Leisure World Cares Fund, which is helping vetted persons that are having trouble paying the increased association dues in Leisure World. As of July 27, we have raised $6,510 toward our $15,000 goal thanks to many generous donations.
Again, many thanks to Reverend Finck. We will be thanking you many times over as we have heat in the winter, and cooling in the summer. We are waiting for the building permits from the City of Seal Beach, and anticipate the installation of the systems to begin soon.
As with any building, particularly one that was built in 1965, there are problems that occur. Over this month, we have had a termite infestation in our Electrical Room, which is off the outside Memorial Cross Wall. We did hire a company to take care of this infestation. Thank you to Sylvia Makus, who cleaned up the mess after them. We had GRF do some needed maintenance which included replacing tubes in overhead lighting fixtures to led tubes which cost $156. We also needed to replace the refrigerator in the kitchen which cost $873.01. Thanks to a generous donation from a member, out actual cost of the replacement is only $178.01. Also, we had a slow running faucet in the kitchen. The Council was all set to call a plumber, and Reverend Finck stepped in and said, let me look at it. He fixed it. Thank you again.
There is another Congregational Meeting scheduled for August 10 after our Worship Service. We have been approached by the Sa Rang Congregation, a non-denominational church to use our facility for a donation of at least $2,000 a month. They carry their own insurance liability and will indemnify Redeemer / St. Theodore. The Council has passed a motion for them to use the facility for a 12:30 Sunday Worship, Bible Study on Wednesday from 6:00pm-7:00pm, and Prayer meetings Tuesday-Saturday from 6:00 am-7:00 am. The Congregation will be voting on this recommendation from the Church Council at this special meeting. Please plan on attending.
Pastor Murray will be offering another New Member Reception in September. We would love to have you join, but, if not, we are so glad you are choosing to worship with us. If this is something you have been praying about, and have any questions or concerns, please speak to him.
Reverend Finck is working on developing a program whereby lay people would serve as Eucharistic Ministers that would bring the Sacrament from the altar to our homebound members and friends.
As you all know, Reverend Finck is an interim Pastor for us, and truly a blessing. However, we are required to be actively looking for a permanent pastor. At this point, the Synod has not presented us with any pastors. A letter is being mailed to all the Bishops in the United States which tells of all of the benefits of Leisure World, and offering a part-time position to any pastor that would choose to move to California, and perhaps live in Leisure World.
As always, many thanks for your continued prayers for my full recovery.
God's Blessings,
Kay Pushman
Council President
March 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
It has been a busy month for our Church Council, and quite a few decisions have been made. Many thanks for these dedicated members.
We decided to hire a janitorial service for $140 a month and a gardener for $200 a month to give our hard-working volunteers that have been doing this work some well-earned time off. The janitor will clean once a month, alternating between spending the major amount of time in the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall. The gardener will come 2-3 times a month. These figures were not figured into the 2025 Budget that was approved, so the accounts for these items will have a negative balance.
The Fire Department did an inspection, and we are required to replace 10 of our Exit Signs, as they don't fully light up. New bulbs would not improve that situation, so new signs have been purchased. Many thanks to our members, Ray Friedrichsen and Emil Miorelli who have said they will install the new signs for us.
Carol and Mickey Costello, along with Bishop Finck, have volunteered to represent us at the Pacifica Synod Assembly on May 16 and 17. Wendy Alfageme has also volunteered to be one of two alternates. We will ask for any other volunteers at the Congregational Meeting, and will then vote to approve all of our representatives.
The Council passed a motion to purchase two tables that will be placed behind the last pew to hold any church material that needs to be passed out, clipboards, cards, and possibly the name tags.
We have been approached by a National Prayer Group to use our conference room once a week for an hour, and we will be meeting with them to ensure this would be a group that follows our teaching.
We are so happy that Carmen Leslie has agreed again to chair our Spring Bazaar on May 1 and 2. We will be following the same format as the Holiday Bazaar except we will be offering lunch for sale.
Karen Ford graciously agreed to represent us at the Spring WELCA Luncheon March 1. Someone from the Women of the ELCA would like to speak to our congregation regarding this special program.
Susan Avila and Doris Weinert have been researching Thrivent, and the ways we, as members, can bring more income into our church. They will be giving a short talk on how we can accomplish that at the Congregational Meeting.
March 16 we will be having a Memorial Lunch remembering Dee Sessa hosted by Juanita Townsend. The church will be providing tableware, coffee and tea. There is a sign-up sheet to help with the setup on March 15, and to serve and cleanup on March 16.
Our Lenten Season begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5 at 10:30 am with Holy Communion and Imposition of Ashes. We then will have Lenten Devotion and Supper at 4:00 the following 5 Wednesdays; March 12, 19, 26 and April 2 and 9. We are also planning an Easter morning brunch. There are sign-up sheets to help with the suppers, and brunch. As we get closer to Easter, there also will be a sign-up sheet if you would like an Easter Lily.
I know there are so many sign-up sheets over the next few months, and I hope you can find some way to help, and thank you in advance for volunteering.
God's Blessings,
Kay Pushman
Council President
December 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
Our Fall Bazaar was so very successful in spite of the weather, and raised $2,606.25 with more purchases being made. I hope you were able to join our community in attending and supporting this event. Reverend Finck’s table always brings such interest, and several people told me that’s why they attend. I’m not exaggerating when I say that the committee worked for months on this venture. Many thanks to Carmen Leslie, and all of those that helped to make this a fun and successful event. We are so very thankful for this project, which not only helps our budget, but also brings the community into our church.
Our Operation Christmas Child operated by Samaritan’s Purse, and chaired by Susan Avila was a hit with our church members and community filling 76 boxes that will bring Christmas love and joy to children in over 100 countries. Now that everyone is aware of this project, we are sure to be even more successful next year.
As reported at the Congregational Meeting, we are required by our insurance company to complete major upgrades to our church. As of the writing of this article, the smoke alarms have been installed, and we are expecting to receive quotes from electricians and plumbers soon. I will keep you updated as we move along on this project.
At our Congregational Meeting, we also elected John Robinson on our church council. He will be an excellent addition to our Council, and replaces Carmen Leslie, whose term was up and made the decision to resign so that a new person could come on the board. She served many years on the council, and held the office of secretary and vice president. She is our artist extraordinaire, and along with Barbara Simundza created the four pieces of art that hang on the front outside wall of our church. She, along with Elaine Lee and Doris Weinert, create our beautiful altar bouquets. This had been a large florist expense for us. The bouquets were very small, and they were going to increase the cost, when Carmen stepped up and volunteered. So, not only are we saving money, but the bouquets are more beautiful! Carmen serves as Communion Assistant, and is looking forward to being trained to take the Sacraments to our members when they are unable to attend church. Thank you so much Carmen for your contributions to our church!
There is a signup sheet if you would like to purchase and dedicate poinsettias that will decorate our altar during the Christmas season. The cost for each plant is $10. Thank you for helping to make our church so beautiful during this special time in our church year.
Our Advent Devotion and Suppers will be on Wednesdays at 3:00 in our heated Fellowship Hall on December 3, 10, and 17. There is a signup sheet if you are able to help. If it is difficult going down the ramp or stairs, join me in the elevator. Also, if transportation is an issue, please let me know, and we will arrange to have you picked up and taken home. Please be sure to attend these wonderful times of study with Reverend Finck and fellowship with your friends.
Our beautiful Christmas Eve Service and brunch following in our Fellowship Hall last year was such a wonderful time, that we have decided to offer it again this year. Nancy Anderson has agreed again to play the piano for the singing of Christmas Carols. If you are able to help, there is a signup sheet. Please don’t miss this special time of joy in our church year Christmas Eve at 10:30 am.
Our Second Congregational Meeting at which we will present the Annual Reports and Installation of Officers will be held on February 15 immediately following our worship service. Fellowship will follow.
We are deeply grateful to Reverend Finck for coming out of retirement to serve as our interim pastor. He has faithfully guided us for the past two years, and while we truly cherish his presence among us, it is important that we continue our efforts to call a permanent part-time pastor. To that end, a letter will be sent to all of the bishops in hopes of finding someone who feels called to serve in this position.
As we come to the end of the year, and reflect on our many blessings we invite you—if you are able— to consider a year-end gift to your church. Your generosity helps sustain the ministry we share, and supports the work God has entrusted to us.
Wishing you abundant Christmas joy, many blessings and good health as we enter another year together in our much-loved church community.
God's Blessings,
Kay Pushman
Council President
June - No Article
President Recovering
from Surgery
April 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
I'm praying this message finds you all in good health or recovering quickly from any recent illnesses, falls or surgeries. Please be sure to let us know when you are having any health challenges so we can include you in our prayers, and offer spiritual support.
Our congregation was delighted to welcome Cathy Boufford, Donna Michelson, and Emil Miorelli as they officially joined our congregation during a special service on March 23. Some of the benefits of church membership include eligibility to vote and hold office, as outlined in our by-laws. We encourage regular attendees to consider becoming members so that you can formally share your thoughts and opinions on the administration of our church, as we work together to meet the needs of everyone who attends. Reverend Finck will be offering another opportunity to join after Easter for anyone who would like to take that step. Whatever you decide, everyone who attends is a welcome and integral part of our church family, and we are grateful that you have chosen Redeemer Lutheran and St. Theodore's Episcopal as your place of worship.
On a bittersweet note, the Memorial Service for our dear Dee Sessa was both beautiful and deeply appreciated by her family and friends. We are grateful to Juanita Townsend who generously hosted the luncheon, Barbara Long for providing a luscious display of desserts, and Carmen Leslie for decorating the tables with such lovely flower arrangements. Many thanks also to the volunteers that setup on Saturday, and served and cleaned up on Sunday. It was truly a meaningful day of remembrance.
A heart felt thank-you to Reverend Finck for leading a beautiful Ash Wednesday Service, which was well attended. We have been having very successful Lenten Reflections and Suppers at 4:00 on Wednesdays through Lent. Members have been sharing reflections on the crosses that have touched their lives offering us all deep and thoughtful inspiration.
We are grateful to those who have signed up to provide the main dishes, bread, salads and desserts, including Barbara Long, Dale Diesslin, Julia Watson, Rod Scidorski, Carol Costella, Betty Lucero, Elaine Lee, and Doris Weinert. Your contributions have been truly delicious! There are still a few openings for those who may want to help, and we are always thankful for the many hands that setup, serve and cleanup each week. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and generous congregation.
Our Lenten evenings will continue on Wednesday at 4:00 through April 9. Please mark your calendars for these upcoming Holy Week services.
+April 13 Palm Sunday Service at 10:30 am.
+April 17 Maundy Thursday Service at 10:30 am.
+April 18 Good Friday Service at 10:30 am.
+April 20 Easter Sunday Service at 10:30 am, followed by a time of fellowship.
Our Spring Bazaar will be held in the Fellowship Hall on May 1 and May 2 from 9:00-2:00. Lunch will be sold starting at 11:00. Come and bring a neighbor. You must be sure to see all of Reverend Finck’s treasures. They were a hit at the Fall Bazaar. We still need donations of cookies, hangers, boutique items, clothing, green tea, and bags for sold items. Any questions, call Carmen Leslie @ 562 430 6950.
Thanking you all for the trust you place in me as your president. May God be with you always.
In faith,
Kay Pushman
Council President
May 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Bishop Finck for the beautiful and meaningful Ash Wednesday, Lenten Reflections and Holy Week Services. The spirit, reverence, and care that went into each gathering were truly felt by all who attended. Thank you for leading us so thoughtfully through such a sacred time in our church calendar.
Special thanks to our Altar Guild who performed extra duties during this busy time. Many thanks also to Sylvia Makus for picking up the lilies for the altar and the flowers for the outdoor cross-and for arranging them so beautifully.
The Lenten Reflections Suppers were well attended and deeply appreciated by all. Bishop Finck delivered an inspirational talk, and several members shared brief reflections on crosses that hold deep personal meaning. I am so thankful to everyone who contributed food, gave a donation, and helped with setup, serving and cleanup. It was a meaningful way for us to reflect on the cross, and share a meal with our fellow members.
The Orange County Fire Authority recently cited us for having exit signs that were not adequately illuminated. I believe the originals were installed in 1965! While it was a significant expense, we purchased 10 new exit signs, and hired Golden Rain for their installation. I'm pleased to report that we have since passed inspection, and our facility is now approved.
On a technical note, my son has repaired the lectern microphone so that it can now be adjusted using the center portion. He's also working on repositioning one of the sanctuary speakers, which will help improve sound distribution throughout the space.
I am writing this article just ahead of our Spring Fling Bazaar, and I am confident it will be a great success. A big thank-you to Carmen Leslie and her hard-working committee, who have devoted so much effort to making this event a wonderful day for all. Please be sure to attend on May 1 and May 2 to support your church. This important fundraiser will help offset the cost of installing a new heating/cooling system.
Lastly, I am so grateful for your continued prayers and kind well wishes as I prepare for another back surgery on April 30. Your love and support mean the world to me.
As always, God's blessings,
Kay Pushman
Council President
July 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
Reverend Finck's 50th Ordination Anniversary
June 29, 2025 was a truly special day, as not only did we celebrate the June birthdays of our congregation, but the special anniversary of Reverend Finck; a tribute to a man whose life has been devoted to serving God. The milestone was marked with a beautiful reception hosted by his loving wife, Rhoda, who orchestrated a memorable event.
Members, family and friends were treated to a delicious spread of fruit and desserts, and an inspiring look back at Reverend Finck's remarkable life and ministry. Rhoda arranged a thoughtful photo display and a video which chronicled his journey from his early days to his many years of dedicated service. We will have the photos available for a few more weeks for those of you that couldn't attend Sunday.
Our congregation also honored this momentous occasion with several heartfelt gifts. A plaque and cross were presented, and will be added to the Memorial Cross Wall, and a plaque that will be placed above the Jerusalem Cross that he made, donated, and that now hangs in the Fellowship Hall. In appreciation of both Reverend Finck and Rhoda, the congregation also gifted them a dinner at a nearby popular restaurant-a small token of gratitude for all they have given, and continue to do.
Special Congregational Meeting-July 13
We will be holding a special congregational meeting immediately following our 10:30 am church service. Please plan to attend this important meeting. Bishop Finck has worked diligently with Greenwood Heating and Air Inc., our Lutheran Synod and Episcopalian Diocese on the problem that we are unable to heat our church. After much discussion, Council passed a motion to solve our lack of heating and cooling, and it will be presented at this meeting for the congregation's approval.
A Generous Gift
On Sunday morning, we discovered that our refrigerator was no longer functioning. Without hesitation, one of our members generously stepped in and purchased one from Golden Rain for the church. We are so grateful for her kindness and quick action to meet this unexpected need-thank you.
Hot Dog Roast-July 6
Mickey and Carol Costello are bringing back a beloved tradition--the hot dog roast. Join us Sunday, July 6 in the Fellowship Hall immediately after the service for food and fellowship. Members have signed up to bring side dishes, so come hungry and ready for a fun time together. Thank you, Mickey and Carol.
A Word of Gratitude
I am so happy to be back with all of you following my recent surgery. I want to express my deepest thanks to Bishop Finck for his prayers and hospital visits – they meant so much, and helped me through this difficult time. I am also truly grateful for each of you. I really appreciate everyone that filled in for me while I was away. Your prayers, visits, cards, calls, meals, errands, and thoughtful gifts were an incredible support during my recovery. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Yours in faith,
Kay Pushman
Council President
September 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
“GOD’S WORK. OUR HANDS.” Each year the ELCA invites congregations across the country to participate in God’s Work. Our Hands. a day dedicated to serving others. Our church runs a Community Food Drive to help feed those in need in Orange County.
Date: Sunday, September 7 Time: 1:00-3:00 Location: Outside the front of the churchOur volunteers will be stationed outside to receive your donations. There are T-shirts available for all who volunteer. We encourage everyone to participate by bringing in non-perishable food items-either on the day of the drive or anytime beforehand.
Quarter-page flyers are also available for you to share with your friends and neighbors. Please help us spread the word and make a difference in the lives of those that are hungry.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD is sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse. Our church is participating in this wonderful program. You choose a boy or girl and the age range of 2-4, 5-9; or 10-14. and fill a shoebox to the brim with gifts, and it will be sent to children in 170 countries around the world, bringing them joy this Christmas season. Susan Avila, Chairman, has written an article in this newsletter giving more particulars.
BTBTB has been amazing. We have not only reached our goal, but surpassed it. Many, many thanks to our very generous congregation, friends, and visitors, as we will have heat in the winter and coolness in the summer, and without any debt. Of course, without Pastor Murray, this wouldn’t have happened, so very sincere thanks for his dedication to this venture.
SEAL BEACH SA-RANG CHURCH A contract to use our church has been developed by the Council with help from Pastor Murray, and his attorney friend. The contract has been signed by us, and delivered to their pastor for approval.
OUR OUTREACH COMMITTEE is here to support you in any way you may need during times of difficulty. Along with Pastor Murray, who is always available for spiritual care, we want you to know that you are not alone. If you are experiencing difficulties, please reach out.
If you could use a helping hand, please feel free to call or text me at (818) 470-0480. We want to make sure you have the support you need.
FALL BAZAAR is set for Thursday, November 13 and Friday, November 14. Please support our fundraiser by bringing items for the Boutique, attending, and inviting friends and family. Thank you to Carmen Leslie who is again chairing this very successful project.
God's Blessings,
Kay Pushman
Council President
October 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
Our Congregational Meeting is scheduled for November 9 immediately following our church service. At this meeting we will present the Proposed 2026 Budget, which has been approved by Council, for your approval. We also will present any nominated Council members. Another item we will bring up for congregational approval is a few changes to the By-laws to be sure we are always in compliance. Please make sure to stay for this important meeting. Fellowship will follow after the meeting.
We were so happy to welcome Gloria Curry, Dahlia Diaz, Sophia Kim, and Anne and Stephen Tegtmeier as they made the decision to become members of our church on September 21.
We all love Reverend Finck, feel so blessed to have him and Rhoda with us, and would like to have him stay. However, since he is an interim pastor, we are required to be looking for a permanent pastor. A Call Committee has been working on a Ministry Site Profile, and when completed, a letter along with the profile will be mailed to all of our Bishops in the United States.
Starting in October, we have changed our janitorial service from once a month to every week since we now have increased use of our facility. The Sa-rang Church has graciously agreed to share this expense with us.
The microphones and audio have been worked on by a non-member volunteer, and we would appreciate feedback on whether it has improved your ability to hear on Sunday.
Remembering your loved ones with a plaque and a cross for our Memorial Cross Wall is a special way to honor them. Reverend Finck performed a beautiful dedication service for Bruce Young’s son, and Nancy Luebben will have crosses for her mother dedicated soon. Please let me know if this is something you would like to do.
Last year our Council approved an annual preventative checkup by Orange County Pump on all of our pumps. Since we have had issues with water in the Fellowship Hall for years, it is a much-needed preventative service call. We had this performed last fall, and fortunately didn’t have any water in our church. They will be coming out to perform this job before the rainy season.
Please make sure to support the Fall Bazaar fundraiser on November 13 and 14. You can shop for gifts and have lunch including delicious dessert options. Reverend Finck has a few tables filled with mementos from his visits all over the world which has been very popular. Take some flyers, and invite your friends and neighbors to come with you.
Please join with us by participating in Operation Christmas Child, which is operated by Samaritan’s Purse. We have the boxes and instructions available now for you to fill with personal care items and toys for children in over 100 countries. In many cases this is the only Christmas gift the child receives. These filled boxes are due back to the church by November 17 so they can be dropped off at the center that will prepare them for shipping.
We will soon have a Suggestion Box available for any thoughts on how we can improve your church. The Church Council is always open to ensuring that our church is meeting everyone’s needs.
God's Blessings,
Kay Pushman
Council President
November 2025
Message from Our President…
Dear Members and Friends,
On October 19, Pastor Murray and I were honored to speak at the Sa-Rang Church’s Open House during their worship service. Their congregation expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to hold worship in our beautiful church. We, in turn, are thankful to have them as part of our community.
Our Congregational Meeting is scheduled for November 9 immediately following our Service. Fellowship will follow after the meeting. Please plan to attend this important meeting. We will have handouts at the meeting that fully explains each issue. The meeting will cover the following items.
*At this meeting, we will be presenting the Proposed 2026 Budget, which is recommended by your Church Council, for your approval.
*As membership in our churches has declined, most are having trouble being compliant with their By-laws. The Synod will be looking at this issue. In the meantime, in order to be compliant, we are asking for several motions which have been passed by the Council and need to have your approval.
*We use an insurance company which the Synod recommends. We recently had an inspection by this company, and had several issues that need to be addressed in the next month. The Council passed a motion to approve these upgrades, and we need your approval.
*We are so very thankful that we have not only met our BTBTB goal, but exceeded it. Since we have these required improvements, the Council voted to change the excess raised to be changed from designated to our operating budget to help defray these unexpected expenses.
Our janitorial service has been changed to every week on Saturday. The Sa-Rang Church has offered to split the cost with us. If you see anything that isn’t clean, please be sure to let us know. Thank you to Sylvia Makus and Wendy Alfageme for their dedication to ensuring our Church is at its best.
Our Fall Bazaar is November 13 and 14. The committee has been working diligently to provide beautiful items for Thanksgiving and Christmas. There are also outside artists that will be participating. Pastor Murray will have several tables with memorabilia from his many trips around the world, which has always been very popular. Lunch, desserts and drinks will be available to purchase. Many thanks to all of the members of this committee, and Chairman, Carmen Leslie.
Our Operation Christmas Child operated by Samaritan’s Purse has been very successful with over 50 boxes passed out to be filled. Please remember to return your boxes by November 13-17, so they can be delivered to the center for shipping by. Christmas to over 100 countries. Your generosity is so appreciated by all of these children. Thank you to Susan Avila, Chairman, and Wendy Alfageme who suggested the project.
As we agreed in the Blessed To Be Twice Blessed fundraiser, we would tithe 10% of the funds raised to our community, and we will be presenting a check on November 16 at our church service to Nick Maseti. who founded the non-profit Leisure World Cares Program that is helping residents who are experiencing financial hardship.
The collection of eyeglasses and eyeglass cases for the WELCA project has been very successful too. Our contributions will be picked up this month. Thank you to Karen Ford, our WELCA representative, for bringing this to our attention.
Our Advent Season begins on Sunday, November 30. We will again be offering our Advent
Suppers starting Wednesdays, December 3,10, and 17 at 3:00 pm. We are so fortunate to have Pastor Murray leading us in a time of study and worship each week. Following, we will share a meal and fellowship together. A signup sheet is available for those who would like to provide a dish or dessert to serve about 30 people, or to help with setup or cleanup. We look forward to sharing this meaningful season of preparation and joy with you.
Our Christmas Eve Brunch following our service last year was such a special time of fellowship that we will be offering it again this year! A signup sheet is available for those who would like to bring a dish or help with setup and cleanup. We look forward to celebrating this joyful occasion together.
There is also a signup sheet for poinsettias, which will adorn our altar on December 14, 21 and 24. Cost will be available as we get closer to the Christmas Season. You may take your plant after the Christmas Eve Service.
Take a moment to visit our Memorial Cross Wall, which is filling up with crosses and plaques. If you would like to remember your loved one in this permanent way, there is a form available in the back of the Sanctuary.
As we enter our Thanksgiving season, I am so deeply grateful for each of you and for the many ways God’s love is shared in our church family.
As always, God's blessings,
Kay Pushman
Council President
