Category: Announcements

Weekly Update 10/1

WHAT IS GOING ON AT CHURCH –

Corona Sabbath 29

This week the focus is on World Communion Sunday.  It’s a time to think about how being in communion with others, with the world, begins with YOU.  
There will also be a Zoom on Sunday at 10:30 for World Communion.  See details below.  

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath here’s the link: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/25/corona-sabbath-28-authority-and-integrity/

Zoom This Sunday

The first Sunday in October has been designated as World Communion Sunday.  This tradition began in the Presbyterian church in 1933 and was later adopted by the National Council of Churches and the World Council of Churches.  This designation is a time for Christians around the world to celebrate being in communion with one another by observing the Lord’s Supper.  

Through the years at LUCC, there have been beautiful services often focusing on a country or culture from abroad and the Christian expression of that area.  

In observance of World Communion Sunday this year, since we cannot meet in person, we will meet via Zoom.  The virtual gathering will be Sunday morning at 10:30.  You will be sent the link on Saturday.  While the gathering will be virtual, please have a piece of bread or something that you consider the staff of life, and have some juice or wine to use as well. Together, we will bless these gifts and eat as part of the worldwide Christian community.   Also, if you have a connection with another country, you are invited to share something from that country with the group – a food, a story, a keepsake – to remind us of our communion with the rest of the world.  

Looking forward to sharing a meal on Sunday at 10:30, the meal that unites us with one another and with the entire Christian faith community around the world.  

Make a Difference:  Mentor a Child

LUCC made a  big difference last school year  in the lives of Maximo Elementary’s children and families.  As we know Covid 19 has changed how we do most everything.  What has not changed is the need for mentors at Maximo Elementary.  As Ms. Jones, the Family and Community Liaison, has said “Our students need you now more than ever.”   All mentors will meet virtually with their assigned student for 30 minutes once a week.   Mentors are required to register to be a volunteer and to attend a virtual workshop.   Are you available to make a difference in a child’s life?  You are needed now more than ever~ pcsb.org/volunteerregistration

www.lunchpals.org  (register for virtual workshop)       

Make a Difference:  Provide Needed Supplies
Supplies Needed:  uniforms, child masks (all masks have be store bought), hand sanitizers, Lysol spray, disposable gloves, disinfecting wipes

Supplies can be dropped off at the church on Wednesdays, 9:00am-10am and. Sundays, 6:00-6:30pm. The outside door will be open for supplies  to be placed in the cart  in the church hallway.  If you would like to make a financial contribution for supplies please send a check to the church marked “Maximo.”

Uniforms:  

Boys- shorts, pants, shirts 5T, 8,10,12  Girls- shorts, pants, dress, skirts, shirts 5T, 6T, 8, 10, 12

Undies: Boys and Girls 5T, 6T, 8,10,12

Uniform colors:  blue, khaki  (girls and boys) pants, shorts, dresses, skirt
                               Light blue, dark blue, white  All shirts boys and girls

Your LUCC Education Ministry team thanks you for all you do  and will do to help  make a difference in the lives  of children and families connected with Maximo Elementary.  

️If you have questions please do not hesitate to contact. Emily Bell (727) 692-2368                Ms. Jones (727) 893-2191  ext. 2305

Ink Cartridges

The church is collecting and recycling ink cartridges! Please save up any empty ink cartridges and recycle them at the church, there is a box in the sanctuary for recycling. The last batch we recycled we received $49.90!

Gratitude from Rev. Wells

Kim would like to thank everyone for their good wishes and prayers related to her heel surgery. The recovery process has become prolonged due to an infection. The treatment process involves IV antibiotics two times a day for two hours. 

Adult Day Care Update

The adult day care is moving forward with mitigating the asbestos in the ceiling of the Fellowship Hall building.  To facilitate this process, some of their furnishings and equipment are now being stored in the sanctuary.  The program will open as soon as the facilities are ready.  The church is grateful to be in partnership with Neighborly Services in meeting this need in the community.  

Register to Vote

Ok.  You are probably registered to vote.  But can you check with others?  Set a goal for yourself like 2 people a day.  And ask two people a day if they are registered to vote.  Yes, with COVID, many are on restricted activities, but ask the receptionist when you call the doctor, ask the server when you pick up take out food, ask the clerk at the grocery store, ask the delivery person who brings you your medications.  Ask in an email to someone you do business with.  Ask a family member, near or far.  Try setting a goal and fulfilling it.  Or exceeding it!  It is very important to our faith and our values that we encourage EVERYONE to vote!  

The deadline to register is October 5!

Sunday Evening Demonstration for Racial Justice TIME CHANGE!   

The Black Lives Matter and Peace and Justice Demonstration continues on 54th Ave South each Sunday evening. This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.  

All are welcome Sunday evenings at the church. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

Please note that the time for the anti racism demonstrations is changing this Sunday, Oct. 4th.  The new time will be 6:00 p.m

 Click here to see pictures of the most recent witness.  https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/23/anti-racism-demonstration-9-20/

AA to Resume in October

Beginning Oct. 6, the church will be hosting a weekly Monday evening AA group at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.  The gathering will practice social distancing, wear masks, and use sanitizer.  The support offered by the recovery movement is very much needed in these difficult times!  All are welcome!

From the Creation Justice Task Force

You are invited to participate in a webinar about a new solar power initiative that is being pursued in Florida.  The program is called Purchase Power Agreements.  This system is used in other areas of the US.  The concept is to make Purchase Power Agreements available to non profits and faith-based communities in Florida to encourage the installation of solar power without the large upfront costs.

Here is the information about the webinar:  
With a PPA, a developer installs, owns, and operates a solar system on the customer’s property. The non-profit then buys the electricity the system produces at a fixed rate. This rate is generally lower than what they pay to their utility providing monthly electricity savings. Nonprofits and governments are able to benefit from solar with low to no upfront cost.  

Learn about the projected environmental and economic benefits of PPAs for governments and nonprofits with the release of a Florida PPA Impact Report on Wednesday October 14 at 2pm ET: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jpS8in9nS3SQzmR4tCJtlw

Florida Conference United Church of Christ Fall Gathering

Each year, representatives of churches in the Florida Conference gather to build community, celebrate, educate, and conduct some business.  

One of the items of business on the docket this year is a resolution calling on the churches of the conference to actively become anti racist churches.  Rev. Wells was part of the group that worked on this resolution.

This year the gathering will be held virtually on Saturday October 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  You can participate from home or other arrangements can be made.  Lakewood needs two church members to participate along with the pastor. The registration deadline is FRIDAY OCTOBER 2.    

Here is a link to more information:  https://uccfla-reg.brtapp.com/2020AnnualGathering  

If you are interested in representing LUCC, please contact Kim Wells at wells.kim.p@gmail.com 

Care Team Visit

As part of the LUCC Care Team, Patti Cooksey, Ed Kaspar, and Claire Stiles visited Ann Quinn at the Princess Martha on Sunday afternoon.  We had a wonderful time and enjoyed a “stroll in Williams Park” nearby.  Ann is doing very well and was so pleased to see some familiar and friendly faces, mostly masked! She is holding a Ruth Pettis poster card expressing our love for her!

Here is the link to the post with pictures: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/30/care-team-visit-to-ann-quinn/

Weekly Labyrinth Walks Continue

Each Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. a small group gathers at the outdoor labyrinth for a time of devotion, discussion, and meditative walking of the labyrinth.  The theme for the week is taken from the Corona Sabbath of the week before, so it is an opportunity to go deeper in the spiritual exploration of that theme for your life.  This devotional gathering is outside and physical distancing is maintained. All are welcome!

If there is rain on Wednesday morning, the gathering will be held on Thursday morning at 9:00.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/06/23/labyrinth-has-been-refurbished

Spiritual Direction Offered by LUCC Clergy Member.

In these troubled times, it is important to find ways to tend to our spiritual lives. In the Christian tradition, Spiritual Direction is one of the ways of paying attention to the spirit in our lives. A Spiritual Director is someone to talk with about what is going on in our spiritual life and in our relationship with God however we may conceive of God.

Rev. Sally Purvis, Ph.D., a member of LUCC, is a retired clergy person with training and experience in Spiritual Direction. She is offering her services as a Spiritual Director to the community. The sessions would be held on Zoom and there is no fee to be paid. Church leaders are pleased to have the ministry of the church expand in this way.

Spiritual Direction with Sally is open to anyone, not just the congregation. And it is offered to everyone whatever their spiritual or religious background or affiliation or lack thereof. Sessions are generally held once every three weeks. Spiritual Direction is not a mode of therapy. It is a process for understanding and deepening your relationship with God/Spirit in ways that are authentic and life-giving.

Sally was trained by Henri Nouwen, a noted spiritual guide of the 20th century, and did Spiritual Direction as part of her professional ministry before retiring in 2015.

If you would like to explore Spiritual Direction with Sally, please contact her at
sallybpurvis@icloud.com or contact the church (867-7961 or lakewooducc@gmail.com ).

The church is very grateful to Sally for offering this avenue of support to the congregation and the community.

USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS DURING THE CORONA CRISIS:

For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near bottom of each page.

Daily Corona Prayer

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/03/20/lucc-corona-daily-prayer

Assistance Available

If you need help of any kind – something from the store, someone to talk with, support managing during shelter-in-place, parenting concerns – please know that the church is ready and willing to help in any way needed.  This situation is trying for everyone.  You are not alone.  We’ll make it through together.  Please contact the church office (lakewooducc@gmail.com or 867-7961 or Rev. Kim Wells at wells.kim.p@gmail.com).  

Miss someone from church?  Give them a call or send a note.  Personal contact is so important when physical contact is limited.  

Music Ministry

About Hilton’s music. . . If you would enjoy hearing Hilton play more Irish folk songs, you can
listen for free at either https://hiltonjones.bandcamp.com/album/irish-
tunes or https://soundcloud.com/hilton-kean-jones/sets/irish-tunes .

September Birthdays: Kim Wells 9/19, Joanne Reid 9/22, Wilbur Reid 9/22, Donald Ritchie 9/27, and Carolyn Moore 9/30. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

October Birthdays: Janet Blair 10/19, Denise Williams 10/25, Olivia Gibson 10/29, and Victoria Long 10/29. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: Ed Kaspar, Claudia Rodriguez, JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens,Kim Wells, Elinor Ross, teachers, students, and school personnel, Vern McKinney, and all healthcare workers and essential workers. All those suffering from COVID-19.

Please keep LUCC member, Olivia Gibson, in your prayers. She is a nurse in a COVID-19 unit in a local hospital. We are grateful for her ministry!

Recent Posts:

Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.

Weekly Update 9/23

WHAT IS GOING ON AT CHURCH –

Corona Sabbath 28

In case you haven’t noticed, it’s election season! Jesus has something to say about how we vote. Take a look at Matthew 22:23-32. Listen to this week’s Corona Sabbath. And, don’t forget to VOTE!

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath, the theme was remembering the founding of Lakewood UCC . Here’s the link: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/18/corona-sabbath-27-remembering-the-founding-of-lakewood-ucc/

Make a Difference:  Mentor a Child

LUCC made a  big difference last school year  in the lives of Maximo Elementary’s children and families.  As we know Covid 19 has changed how we do most everything.  What has not changed is the need for mentors at Maximo Elementary.  As Ms. Jones, the Family and Community Liaison, has said “Our students need you now more than ever.”   All mentors will meet virtually with their assigned student for 30 minutes once a week.   Mentors are required to register to be a volunteer and to attend a virtual workshop.   Are you available to make a difference in a child’s life?  You are needed now more than ever~ pcsb.org/volunteerregistration

www.lunchpals.org  (register for virtual workshop)       

Make a Difference:  Provide Needed Supplies
Supplies Needed:  uniforms, child masks (all masks have be store bought), hand sanitizers, Lysol spray, disposable gloves, disinfecting wipes

Supplies can be dropped off at the church on Wednesdays, 9:00am-10am and. Sundays, 7:00 pm-7:30 pm. The outside door will be open for supplies  to be placed in the cart  in the church hallway.  If you would like to make a financial contribution for supplies please send a check to the church marked “Maximo.”

Uniforms:  

Boys- shorts, pants, shirts 5T, 8,10,12  Girls- shorts, pants, dress, skirts, shirts 5T, 6T, 8, 10, 12

Undies: Boys and Girls 5T, 6T, 8,10,12

Uniform colors:  blue, khaki  (girls and boys) pants, shorts, dresses, skirt
                               Light blue, dark blue, white  All shirts boys and girls

Your LUCC Education Ministry team thanks you for all you do  and will do to help  make a difference in the lives  of children and families connected with Maximo Elementary.  

️If you have questions please do not hesitate to contact. Emily Bell (727) 692-2368                Ms. Jones (727) 893-2191  ext. 2305

Ink Cartridges

The church is collecting and recycling ink cartridges! Please save up any empty ink cartridges and recycle them at the church, there is a box in the sanctuary for recycling. The last batch we recycled we received $49.90!

Gratitude from Rev. Wells

Kim would like to thank everyone for their good wishes and prayers related to her heel surgery. The recovery process has become prolonged due to an infection.

Also, many thanks to all who participated in Kim’s birthday Zoom as well as sending cards, texts, and emails.  All the good wishes were most welcome especially in these trying times!

Adult Day Care Update

The adult day care is moving forward with mitigating the asbestos in the ceiling of the Fellowship Hall building.  To facilitate this process, some of their furnishings and equipment are now being stored in the sanctuary.  The program will open as soon as the facilities are ready.  The church is grateful to be in partnership with Neighborly Services in meeting this need in the community.  

Register to Vote

Ok.  You are probably registered to vote.  But can you check with others?  Set a goal for yourself like 2 people a day.  And ask two people a day if they are registered to vote.  Yes, with COVID, many are on restricted activities, but ask the receptionist when you call the doctor, ask the server when you pick up take out food, ask the clerk at the grocery store, ask the delivery person who brings you your medications.  Ask in an email to someone you do business with.  Ask a family member, near or far.  Try setting a goal and fulfilling it.  Or exceeding it!  It is very important to our faith and our values that we encourage EVERYONE to vote!  

The deadline to register is October 5!

Church School?

The Education Ministry Team met last week and has made some plans for the Fall.  They are reaching out to teachers and students as the school year begins.  After Labor Day, a new initiative will begin that will include all of the children and youth of the church family that would like to participate.  Grown ups, this will be for you, too!  You’ll hear more about it soon!

Zooms Ahead

All church Zoom gatherings will resume when Rev. Wells is “on her feet” again – literally!  If the church can be of help in any way, please contact the church office or Kim Wells directly.  

 Have you completed the Census?

Great!  So maybe now you can encourage others to complete the Census as well. If you would like assistance in submitting your Census information, please contact the church and someone will help you.

Sunday Evening Demonstration for Racial Justice Grows!   

The Black Lives Matter and Peace and Justice Demonstration continues on 54th Ave South each Sunday evening. This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.  

All are welcome Sunday evenings. Please note that in September the new time is 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the church. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

 Click here to see pictures of the most recent witness.  https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/23/anti-racism-demonstration-9-20/

This Sunday

The church will not be open from 10:30 to 11:30.  The sanctuary will be open again on Sundays when Rev. Wells has recovered from surgery.  

Look for a Corona Sabbath post on Friday.  Check for it at the website – lakewooducc.org
Also, please subscribe to the website so that you receive regular updates about church life. 

Weekly Labyrinth Walks Continue

Each Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. a small group gathers at the outdoor labyrinth for a time of devotion, discussion, and meditative walking of the labyrinth.  The theme for the week is taken from the Corona Sabbath of the week before, so it is an opportunity to go deeper in the spiritual exploration of that theme for your life.  This devotional gathering is outside and physical distancing is maintained. All are welcome!

If there is rain on Wednesday morning, the gathering will be held on Thursday morning at 9:00.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/06/23/labyrinth-has-been-refurbished

Spiritual Direction Offered by LUCC Clergy Member.

In these troubled times, it is important to find ways to tend to our spiritual lives. In the Christian tradition, Spiritual Direction is one of the ways of paying attention to the spirit in our lives. A Spiritual Director is someone to talk with about what is going on in our spiritual life and in our relationship with God however we may conceive of God.

Rev. Sally Purvis, Ph.D., a member of LUCC, is a retired clergy person with training and experience in Spiritual Direction. She is offering her services as a Spiritual Director to the community. The sessions would be held on Zoom and there is no fee to be paid. Church leaders are pleased to have the ministry of the church expand in this way.

Spiritual Direction with Sally is open to anyone, not just the congregation. And it is offered to everyone whatever their spiritual or religious background or affiliation or lack thereof. Sessions are generally held once every three weeks. Spiritual Direction is not a mode of therapy. It is a process for understanding and deepening your relationship with God/Spirit in ways that are authentic and life-giving.

Sally was trained by Henri Nouwen, a noted spiritual guide of the 20th century, and did Spiritual Direction as part of her professional ministry before retiring in 2015.

If you would like to explore Spiritual Direction with Sally, please contact her at
sallybpurvis@icloud.com or contact the church (867-7961 or lakewooducc@gmail.com ).

The church is very grateful to Sally for offering this avenue of support to the congregation and the community.

USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS DURING THE CORONA CRISIS:

For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near bottom of each page.

Daily Corona Prayer

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/03/20/lucc-corona-daily-prayer

Assistance Available

If you need help of any kind – something from the store, someone to talk with, support managing during shelter-in-place, parenting concerns – please know that the church is ready and willing to help in any way needed.  This situation is trying for everyone.  You are not alone.  We’ll make it through together.  Please contact the church office (lakewooducc@gmail.com or 867-7961 or Rev. Kim Wells at wells.kim.p@gmail.com).  

Miss someone from church?  Give them a call or send a note.  Personal contact is so important when physical contact is limited.  

Music Ministry

About Hilton’s music. . . If you would enjoy hearing Hilton play more Irish folk songs, you can
listen for free at either https://hiltonjones.bandcamp.com/album/irish-
tunes or https://soundcloud.com/hilton-kean-jones/sets/irish-tunes .

September Birthdays: Kim Wells 9/19, Joanne Reid 9/22, Wilbur Reid 9/22, Donald Ritchie 9/27, and Carolyn Moore 9/30. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: Carol Shores and family, JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Martha Lamar, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens,Kim Wells, Elinor Ross, Yvonne Riesen, teachers, students, and school personnel, Vern McKinney, and all healthcare workers and essential workers. All those suffering from COVID-19.

Ed Kaspar took a fall and broke his arm.  Please remember him in your thoughts and prayers.

Claudia Rodriguez is recovering from a shoulder injury.

Please keep LUCC member, Olivia Gibson, in your prayers. She is a nurse in a COVID-19 unit in a local hospital. We are grateful for her ministry!

Recent Posts:

Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.

Weekly Update 9/17

WHAT IS GOING ON AT CHURCH –

Corona Sabbath 27

The post this week focuses on the founding of Lakewood United Church of Christ in September of 1967.  When we look back from the vantage point of today, it might seem like a strange time to be founding a church.  And yet here we are.  And it is another VERY strange time.  The Bible lessons for this week help us to see why the church was important then, and why it is VERY important now! In the post, Jim Andrews will read Exodus 16:1-15 and Matthew 20:1-16.  There will be a reflection from Rev. Wells and music from Hilton Jones.  

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath, the theme was Freedom . Here’s the link: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/10/corona-sabbath-26/

Gratitude from Rev. Wells

Kim would like to thank everyone for their good wishes and prayers related to her heel surgery. The recovery process has become prolonged due to an infection.

Adult Day Care Update

The adult day care is moving forward with mitigating the asbestos in the ceiling of the Fellowship Hall building.  To facilitate this process, some of their furnishings and equipment are now being stored in the sanctuary.  The program will open as soon as the facilities are ready.  The church is grateful to be in partnership with Neighborly Services in meeting this need in the community.  

Register to Vote

Ok.  You are probably registered to vote.  But can you check with others?  Set a goal for yourself like 2 people a day.  And ask two people a day if they are registered to vote.  Yes, with COVID, many are on restricted activities, but ask the receptionist when you call the doctor, ask the server when you pick up take out food, ask the clerk at the grocery store, ask the delivery person who brings you your medications.  Ask in an email to someone you do business with.  Ask a family member, near or far.  Try setting a goal and fulfilling it.  Or exceeding it!  It is very important to our faith and our values that we encourage EVERYONE to vote!  

Church School?

The Education Ministry Team met last week and has made some plans for the Fall.  They are reaching out to teachers and students as the school year begins.  After Labor Day, a new initiative will begin that will include all of the children and youth of the church family that would like to participate.  Grown ups, this will be for you, too!  You’ll hear more about it soon!

Zooms Ahead

All church Zoom gatherings will resume when Rev. Wells is “on her feet” again – literally!  If the church can be of help in any way, please contact the church office or Kim Wells directly.  

 Have you completed the Census?

Great!  So maybe now you can encourage others to complete the Census as well. If you would like assistance in submitting your Census information, please contact the church and someone will help you.

Sunday Evening Demonstration for Racial Justice Grows!   

The Black Lives Matter and Peace and Justice Demonstration continues on 54th Ave South each Sunday evening. This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.  

All are welcome Sunday evenings. Please note that in September the new time is 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the church. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

 Click here to see pictures of the most recent witness.  https://lakewooducc.org/2020/08/26/weekly-anti-racism-demonstration-8-23/

This Sunday

The church will not be open from 10:30 to 11:30.  The sanctuary will be open again on Sundays when Rev. Wells has recovered from surgery.  

Look for a Corona Sabbath post on Friday.  Check for it at the website – lakewooducc.org
Also, please subscribe to the website so that you receive regular updates about church life. 

Weekly Labyrinth Walks Continue

Each Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. a small group gathers at the outdoor labyrinth for a time of devotion, discussion, and meditative walking of the labyrinth.  The theme for the week is taken from the Corona Sabbath of the week before, so it is an opportunity to go deeper in the spiritual exploration of that theme for your life.  This devotional gathering is outside and physical distancing is maintained. All are welcome!

If there is rain on Wednesday morning, the gathering will be held on Thursday morning at 9:00.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/06/23/labyrinth-has-been-refurbished

Spiritual Direction Offered by LUCC Clergy Member.

In these troubled times, it is important to find ways to tend to our spiritual lives. In the Christian tradition, Spiritual Direction is one of the ways of paying attention to the spirit in our lives. A Spiritual Director is someone to talk with about what is going on in our spiritual life and in our relationship with God however we may conceive of God.

Rev. Sally Purvis, Ph.D., a member of LUCC, is a retired clergy person with training and experience in Spiritual Direction. She is offering her services as a Spiritual Director to the community. The sessions would be held on Zoom and there is no fee to be paid. Church leaders are pleased to have the ministry of the church expand in this way.

Spiritual Direction with Sally is open to anyone, not just the congregation. And it is offered to everyone whatever their spiritual or religious background or affiliation or lack thereof. Sessions are generally held once every three weeks. Spiritual Direction is not a mode of therapy. It is a process for understanding and deepening your relationship with God/Spirit in ways that are authentic and life-giving.

Sally was trained by Henri Nouwen, a noted spiritual guide of the 20th century, and did Spiritual Direction as part of her professional ministry before retiring in 2015.

If you would like to explore Spiritual Direction with Sally, please contact her at
sallybpurvis@icloud.com or contact the church (867-7961 or lakewooducc@gmail.com ).

The church is very grateful to Sally for offering this avenue of support to the congregation and the community.

USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS DURING THE CORONA CRISIS:

For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near bottom of each page.

Daily Corona Prayer

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/03/20/lucc-corona-daily-prayer

Assistance Available

If you need help of any kind – something from the store, someone to talk with, support managing during shelter-in-place, parenting concerns – please know that the church is ready and willing to help in any way needed.  This situation is trying for everyone.  You are not alone.  We’ll make it through together.  Please contact the church office (lakewooducc@gmail.com or 867-7961 or Rev. Kim Wells at wells.kim.p@gmail.com).  

Miss someone from church?  Give them a call or send a note.  Personal contact is so important when physical contact is limited.  

Music Ministry

About Hilton’s music. . . If you would enjoy hearing Hilton play more Irish folk songs, you can
listen for free at either https://hiltonjones.bandcamp.com/album/irish-
tunes or https://soundcloud.com/hilton-kean-jones/sets/irish-tunes .

September Birthdays: Kim Wells 9/19, Joanne Reid 9/22, Wilbur Reid 9/22, Donald Ritchie 9/27, and Carolyn Moore 9/30. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: Carol Shores and family, JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Martha Lamar, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens,Kim Wells, Elinor Ross, Yvonne Riesen, teachers, students, and school personnel, Barbara Donohue, Dana Cosper’s cousin, Vern McKinney, and all healthcare workers and essential workers. All those suffering from COVID-19.

Please keep LUCC member, Olivia Gibson, in your prayers. She is a nurse in a COVID-19 unit in a local hospital. We are grateful for her ministry!

Recent Posts:

Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.

Weekly Update 9/10


WHAT IS GOING ON AT CHURCH –

Corona Sabbath 26

What does it take to be free?  The story of the parting of the Red Sea invites reflection on freedom as the Egyptian army is swallowed up by the returning waters.  Take a look at Exodus 14: 19-31.  In this week’s Corona Sabbath, Hilton offers the music and Earl Waters reads the scripture.  It will be posted on Friday. 

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath, the theme was Awe and Wonder. Here’s the link: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/04/corona-sabbath-25-wonder-and-awe/ 

Gratitude from Rev. Wells

Kim would like to thank everyone for their good wishes and prayers related to her heel surgery. The recovery process has become prolonged due to an infection.

It’s Back to School the Tipsy-Turvy 2020 Way!!!

This back to school sign slogan created by Ruth Pettis became the theme of the Sunday and Tuesday LUCC back to school drive-by celebrations for LUCC teachers and students. Dodging the Sunday afternoon rain, thunder and puddles, church members drove across town distributing cards and gift bags packed with school supplies and goodies to students and teachers. The Tuesday drive by was warmed by the sun and the hearts of all who participated. That drive-by ended with Jeff dropping off a back to school gift bag at the church for Gabi. Both drive bys were successful events in extending this LUCC message of love and support: “Your LUCC Family Supports you All the Way!” Thank you to all who participated in the wonderful celebration, especially the students and teachers who shared their smiles and inspiration with all!

View the pictures here: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/03/its-back-to-school-the-tipsy-turvy-2020-way/

Church Library Makeover

Claire Stiles and Colleen Coughenour are hard at work cleaning up and reorganizing the church library.  There are many wonderful books that are “hiding under a bushel.”  When Colleen and Claire are done, the books will be accessible and displayed in an attractive manner.  What a beautiful anticipatory gesture of the time when we are all coming to the church again!  

Finance Follow Up

Several weeks ago, the Finance Team shared a letter about the current state of the church finances.  The information is also available at the church website.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/08/26/church-finances-letter/

Many thanks to the church family and beyond for your generosity! With your continued faithfulness, the church should be able to stay on steady ground in these uncertain days.

Church School?

The Education Ministry Team met last week and has made some plans for the Fall.  They are reaching out to teachers and students as the school year begins.  After Labor Day, a new initiative will begin that will include all of the children and youth of the church family that would like to participate.  Grown ups, this will be for you, too!  You’ll hear more about it soon!

Charter Sunday Zoom Ahead

Each year in September, there is a celebration of the founding of LUCC in 1967.  Look for details about a Zoom later this month commemorating this wonderful church ever seeking to bear witness to the love of God as we know it through the ministry of Jesus.  What has LUCC meant to you and your life?  Together we’ll give thanks for this wonderful congregation!

 Have you completed the Census?

Please participate in the US Census which is mandated by the Constitution.  These numbers determine the allocation of many resources that directly impact each of us in the community. Participation in the Census, like voting, is a way of showing love for your neighbor and your community.  If you would like assistance in submitting your Census information, please contact the church and someone will help you.

Operation Attack Update

Dear Friends of Operation Attack,

 A team of people from Operation Attack, Lake view Presbyterian, and Circle of Faith have determined a way that we can distribute food safely to the community.  We are going to have a Food Distribution Drive-Thru on Saturday, September 12, from 9-12 at Lakeview Presbyterian Church.  You can become involved in any or all of the following ways:

 Donate Cereal, Peanut Butter, Pasta, Pasta Sauce, or canned meat Volunteer for preparation tasks before the Drive-Thru Volunteer on September 12 Donate money Pray for all the people/groups making this event happen 

You are welcome to reply to dklamer@tampabay.rr.com with questions and/or information on how you would like to participate in this Drive-Thru. 

Thank you for your longtime faithfulness to Operation Attack and the families in our community.   Stay Safe and Be Well 

Sunday Evening Demonstration for Racial Justice Grows!   

The Black Lives Matter and Peace and Justice Demonstration continues on 54th Ave South each Sunday evening. This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.  

All are welcome Sunday evenings. Please note that in September the new time is 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the church. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

 Click here to see pictures of the most recent witness.  https://lakewooducc.org/2020/08/26/weekly-anti-racism-demonstration-8-23/

This Sunday

The church will not be open from 10:30 to 11:30.  The sanctuary will be open again on Sundays when Rev. Wells has recovered from surgery.  

Look for a Corona Sabbath post on Friday.  Check for it at the website – lakewooducc.org
Also, please subscribe to the website so that you receive regular updates about church life. 

Weekly Labyrinth Walks Continue

Each Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. a small group gathers at the outdoor labyrinth for a time of devotion, discussion, and meditative walking of the labyrinth.  The theme for the week is taken from the Corona Sabbath of the week before, so it is an opportunity to go deeper in the spiritual exploration of that theme for your life.  This devotional gathering is outside and physical distancing is maintained. All are welcome!

If there is rain on Wednesday morning, the gathering will be held on Thursday morning at 9:00.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/06/23/labyrinth-has-been-refurbished

Spiritual Direction Offered by LUCC Clergy Member.

In these troubled times, it is important to find ways to tend to our spiritual lives. In the Christian tradition, Spiritual Direction is one of the ways of paying attention to the spirit in our lives. A Spiritual Director is someone to talk with about what is going on in our spiritual life and in our relationship with God however we may conceive of God.

Rev. Sally Purvis, Ph.D., a member of LUCC, is a retired clergy person with training and experience in Spiritual Direction. She is offering her services as a Spiritual Director to the community. The sessions would be held on Zoom and there is no fee to be paid. Church leaders are pleased to have the ministry of the church expand in this way.

Spiritual Direction with Sally is open to anyone, not just the congregation. And it is offered to everyone whatever their spiritual or religious background or affiliation or lack thereof. Sessions are generally held once every three weeks. Spiritual Direction is not a mode of therapy. It is a process for understanding and deepening your relationship with God/Spirit in ways that are authentic and life-giving.

Sally was trained by Henri Nouwen, a noted spiritual guide of the 20th century, and did Spiritual Direction as part of her professional ministry before retiring in 2015.

If you would like to explore Spiritual Direction with Sally, please contact her at
sallybpurvis@icloud.com or contact the church (867-7961 or lakewooducc@gmail.com ).

The church is very grateful to Sally for offering this avenue of support to the congregation and the community.

USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS DURING THE CORONA CRISIS:

For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near bottom of each page.

Daily Corona Prayer

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/03/20/lucc-corona-daily-prayer

Assistance Available

If you need help of any kind – something from the store, someone to talk with, support managing during shelter-in-place, parenting concerns – please know that the church is ready and willing to help in any way needed.  This situation is trying for everyone.  You are not alone.  We’ll make it through together.  Please contact the church office (lakewooducc@gmail.com or 867-7961 or Rev. Kim Wells at wells.kim.p@gmail.com).  

Miss someone from church?  Give them a call or send a note.  Personal contact is so important when physical contact is limited.  

Music Ministry

About Hilton’s music. . . If you would enjoy hearing Hilton play more Irish folk songs, you can
listen for free at either https://hiltonjones.bandcamp.com/album/irish-
tunes or https://soundcloud.com/hilton-kean-jones/sets/irish-tunes .

September Birthdays: Kim Wells 9/19, Joanne Reid 9/22, Wilbur Reid 9/22, Donald Ritchie 9/27, and Carolyn Moore 9/30. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: Carol Shores and family, JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Martha Lamar, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens, Dana Cosper’s cousin, Vern McKinney, and all healthcare workers and essential workers. All those suffering from COVID-19.

Please keep Rev. Wells in your prayers as she continues to recover from surgery.

You are encouraged to pray and express your support to students, teachers, and families as the school year begins. These are very challenging times for all!  There is concern for the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of all involved in the educational system.  The LUCC faith community has several teachers and families with students and this has been a very difficult time for them all.

 Please keep Elinor Ross and family in your prayers.  Elinor has moved in with her daughter, Cheryl, and is under Hospice care  

Please keep Yvonne Riesen and family in your prayers.  Yvonne has moved again to a larger apartment in the assisted living at Westminster Suncoast.  Calls and notes are a way to show your concern and support to Yvonne. Call the main desk and they will connect you:  727-867-1131.

Please keep LUCC member, Olivia Gibson, in your prayers. She is a nurse in a COVID-19 unit in a local hospital. We are grateful for her ministry!

Recent Posts:

Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.

Weekly Update 9/3

WHAT IS GOING ON AT CHURCH –

Summer Sundays

The theme for the Corona Sabbath posts this summer is ‘GROUNDED.’ Yes, with the COVID-19 pandemic continuing, many are not taking expected summer trips and vacations.  Feeling grounded.  And with the demonstrations going on, many do not feel safe to venture out because of the pandemic and feel grounded.  And with a global pandemic, a global recession, and global demonstrations against racism, it is a time to lean on our faith to help us feel grounded.  Each week’s presentation will explore a different dimension of our faith which helps us to feel grounded in these uncertain times.  When we are grounded, we can grow and flourish and bear fruit!  So, look for the Corona Sabbath post each week to help you be grounded! 

The post this week is on the theme of Awe and Wonder.  There is a reading submitted by Katharaine Meacham Conover and the scripture lesson is read by Colleen Coughenour. It will be posted on Friday.  You will be emailed the link.  

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath, the theme was Service and Generosity. Here’s the link: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/08/24/corona-sabbath-24-generosity-and-service/

Gratitude from Rev. Wells

Kim would like to thank everyone for their good wishes and prayers related to her heel surgery on Monday. Special thanks to Patti Cooksey, Emily Bell, and Claire Stiles for their drive by visit!

It’s Back to School the Tipsy-Turvy 2020 Way!!!

This back to school sign slogan created by Ruth Pettis became the theme of the Sunday and Tuesday LUCC back to school drive-by celebrations for LUCC teachers and students. Dodging the Sunday afternoon rain, thunder and puddles, church members drove across town distributing cards and gift bags packed with school supplies and goodies to students and teachers. The Tuesday drive by was warmed by the sun and the hearts of all who participated. That drive-by ended with Jeff dropping off a back to school gift bag at the church for Gabi. Both drive bys were successful events in extending this LUCC message of love and support: “Your LUCC Family Supports you All the Way!” Thank you to all who participated in the wonderful celebration, especially the students and teachers who shared their smiles and inspiration with all!

View the pictures here: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/03/its-back-to-school-the-tipsy-turvy-2020-way/

A Surprise Drive-By Visit to Pastor Kim!

The Sunday drive by concluded with a surprise visit to Pastor Kim. Church members greeted Pastor Kim with a bouquet of greenery from Claire’s garden, a personalized get-well sign designed by Ruth, and a framed Dr. Suess handout for teachers. We all shared our joy in seeing Pastor Kim looking well and confident in her mastery of the knee scooter. What a splendid way to end a Sunday afternoon, waving goodbye to the smiling Wells’ family who sent us off with greetings to the LUCC family!

Use the link to see pictures: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/09/03/a-surprise-drive-by-visit-to-pastor-kim/

Church Library Makeover

Claire Stiles and Colleen Coughenour are hard at work cleaning up and reorganizing the church library.  There are many wonderful books that are “hiding under a bushel.”  When Colleen and Claire are done, the books will be accessible and displayed in an attractive manner.  What a beautiful anticipatory gesture of the time when we are all coming to the church again!  

Finance Follow Up

Several weeks ago, the Finance Team shared a letter about the current state of the church finances.  The information is also available at the church website.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/08/26/church-finances-letter/

Many thanks to the church family and beyond for your generosity! With your continued faithfulness, the church should be able to stay on steady ground in these uncertain days.

Church School?

The Education Ministry Team met last week and has made some plans for the Fall.  They are reaching out to teachers and students as the school year begins.  After Labor Day, a new initiative will begin that will include all of the children and youth of the church family that would like to participate.  Grown ups, this will be for you, too!  You’ll hear more about it soon!

Charter Sunday Zoom Ahead

Each year in September, there is a celebration of the founding of LUCC in 1967.  Look for details about a Zoom later this month commemorating this wonderful church ever seeking to bear witness to the love of God as we know it through the ministry of Jesus.  What has LUCC meant to you and your life?  Together we’ll give thanks for this wonderful congregation!

 Have you completed the Census?

Please participate in the US Census which is mandated by the Constitution.  These numbers determine the allocation of many resources that directly impact each of us in the community. Participation in the Census, like voting, is a way of showing love for your neighbor and your community.  If you would like assistance in submitting your Census information, please contact the church and someone will help you.

Operation Attack Update

Dear Friends of Operation Attack,

 A team of people from Operation Attack, Lake view Presbyterian, and Circle of Faith have determined a way that we can distribute food safely to the community.  We are going to have a Food Distribution Drive-Thru on Saturday, September 12, from 9-12 at Lakeview Presbyterian Church.  You can become involved in any or all of the following ways:

 Donate Cereal, Peanut Butter, Pasta, Pasta Sauce, or canned meat Volunteer for preparation tasks before the Drive-Thru Volunteer on September 12 Donate money Pray for all the people/groups making this event happen 

You are welcome to reply to dklamer@tampabay.rr.com with questions and/or information on how you would like to participate in this Drive-Thru. 

Thank you for your longtime faithfulness to Operation Attack and the families in our community.   Stay Safe and Be Well 

Sunday Evening Demonstration for Racial Justice Grows!   

The Black Lives Matter and Peace and Justice Demonstration continues on 54th Ave South each Sunday evening. This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.  

All are welcome Sunday evenings. Please note that in September the new time is 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the church. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

 Click here to see pictures of the most recent witness.  https://lakewooducc.org/2020/08/26/weekly-anti-racism-demonstration-8-23/

This Sunday

The church will not be open from 10:30 to 11:30.  The sanctuary will be open again on Sundays when Rev. Wells has recovered from surgery.  

Look for a Corona Sabbath post on Friday.  Check for it at the website – lakewooducc.org
Also, please subscribe to the website so that you receive regular updates about church life. 

Weekly Labyrinth Walks Continue

Each Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. a small group gathers at the outdoor labyrinth for a time of devotion, discussion, and meditative walking of the labyrinth.  The theme for the week is taken from the Corona Sabbath of the week before, so it is an opportunity to go deeper in the spiritual exploration of that theme for your life.  This devotional gathering is outside and physical distancing is maintained. All are welcome!

If there is rain on Wednesday morning, the gathering will be held on Thursday morning at 9:00.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/06/23/labyrinth-has-been-refurbished

Spiritual Direction Offered by LUCC Clergy Member.

In these troubled times, it is important to find ways to tend to our spiritual lives. In the Christian tradition, Spiritual Direction is one of the ways of paying attention to the spirit in our lives. A Spiritual Director is someone to talk with about what is going on in our spiritual life and in our relationship with God however we may conceive of God.

Rev. Sally Purvis, Ph.D., a member of LUCC, is a retired clergy person with training and experience in Spiritual Direction. She is offering her services as a Spiritual Director to the community. The sessions would be held on Zoom and there is no fee to be paid. Church leaders are pleased to have the ministry of the church expand in this way.

Spiritual Direction with Sally is open to anyone, not just the congregation. And it is offered to everyone whatever their spiritual or religious background or affiliation or lack thereof. Sessions are generally held once every three weeks. Spiritual Direction is not a mode of therapy. It is a process for understanding and deepening your relationship with God/Spirit in ways that are authentic and life-giving.

Sally was trained by Henri Nouwen, a noted spiritual guide of the 20th century, and did Spiritual Direction as part of her professional ministry before retiring in 2015.

If you would like to explore Spiritual Direction with Sally, please contact her at
sallybpurvis@icloud.com or contact the church (867-7961 or lakewooducc@gmail.com ).

The church is very grateful to Sally for offering this avenue of support to the congregation and the community.

USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS DURING THE CORONA CRISIS:

For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near bottom of each page.

Daily Corona Prayer

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/03/20/lucc-corona-daily-prayer

Assistance Available

If you need help of any kind – something from the store, someone to talk with, support managing during shelter-in-place, parenting concerns – please know that the church is ready and willing to help in any way needed.  This situation is trying for everyone.  You are not alone.  We’ll make it through together.  Please contact the church office (lakewooducc@gmail.com or 867-7961 or Rev. Kim Wells at wells.kim.p@gmail.com).  

Miss someone from church?  Give them a call or send a note.  Personal contact is so important when physical contact is limited.  

Music Ministry

About Hilton’s music. . . If you would enjoy hearing Hilton play more Irish folk songs, you can
listen for free at either https://hiltonjones.bandcamp.com/album/irish-
tunes or https://soundcloud.com/hilton-kean-jones/sets/irish-tunes .

September Birthdays: Kim Wells 9/19, Joanne Reid 9/22, Wilbur Reid 9/22, Donald Ritchie 9/27, and Carolyn Moore 9/30. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: Carol Shores and family, JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Martha Lamar, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens, Dana Cosper’s cousin, Vern McKinney, and all healthcare workers and essential workers. All those suffering from COVID-19.

Please keep Rev. Wells in your prayers as she continues to recover from surgery.

You are encouraged to pray and express your support to students, teachers, and families as the school year begins. These are very challenging times for all!  There is concern for the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of all involved in the educational system.  The LUCC faith community has several teachers and families with students and this has been a very difficult time for them all.

 Please keep Elinor Ross and family in your prayers.  Elinor has moved in with her daughter, Cheryl, and is under Hospice care  

Please keep Yvonne Riesen and family in your prayers.  Yvonne has moved again to a larger apartment in the assisted living at Westminster Suncoast.  Calls and notes are a way to show your concern and support to Yvonne. Call the main desk and they will connect you:  727-867-1131.

Please keep LUCC member, Olivia Gibson, in your prayers. She is a nurse in a COVID-19 unit in a local hospital. We are grateful for her ministry!

Recent Posts:

Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.