Category: Updates

Weekly Update 12/2

Advent Begins!

When we had the Christmas in July Zoom celebration we enjoyed hearing the Christmas story and singing carols.  Well, there is another Zoom Christmas Eve service planned for 5:00 p.m. on Dec. 24th.  There will also be an in-person outdoor service at 7:00 p.m.

The theme for this Advent season at LUCC is Rekindle the Gift from a verse from 2 Timothy.  This is certainly a season to ‘rekindle’ after all that we have been through!  Each week, the Corona Sabbath and daily devotions will focus on the traditional themes for the candles of the Advent Wreath.  Rekindle Hope.  Rekindle Peace.  Rekindle Joy.  And Rekindle Love.

Please see the details below for the Advent season.  May you find needed hope, peace, joy, and love this season!

Advent Devotions – Posted at the Website

A booklet of devotions has been prepared for the Advent season with a reading for each day and liturgy for the lighting of Advent candles at home each Sunday.  These devotions are also posted weekly at the church website.  May these devotions help to rekindle hope, peace, joy, and love this holy season. 

Please use the link below to read the first weeks readings and liturgy: https://lakewooducc.org/2020/11/28/advent-candle-lighting-liturgy-and-daily-devotions-for-week-1/

Christmas Eve

In these difficult and challenging days, celebrating the birth of Jesus is more important than ever.  Jesus, too, was born in difficult times.  His birth reminds us that God is with us, in joy and in sorrow, in times of fear and challenge as well as times of awe and wonder.  

You are invited to celebrate the birth of Jesus with the LUCC church family.  The same service will be offered two ways on Christmas Eve.  

At 5:00 p.m. there will be a Zoom/FaceBook live service.  Go to the church FaceBook page and click on the lower left.  Here’s the link for Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2700683648

At 7:00 p.m. there will be an in person version of the same service on the church grounds.  Masks and physical distancing will be maintained.  There will be no singing.  Bring a chair and a flashlight so you can read the bulletin.  In case of rain, the service will be held on the covered patio adjacent to the playground.  

Rekindle the Gifts of God:  Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love

Poinsettias

In the uncharted territory we are facing this year, the church will be trying something new.  The church family is invited to bring poinsettias to church on the Sundays in December before Christmas.  They will beautify our worship space and they will be taken to those who are homebound and in need of special care in the congregation.  So, if you would like to, please bring a poinsettia or poinsettias to church.  Many thanks!

Carol Sing Ahead

Missing singing those favorite Christmas carols?  A Zoom carol sing is being planned.  Hilton will play and everyone on the Zoom will safely sing at home.  In the past, each Advent season there has been a caroling event to visit the homebound.  Since Corona has us all somewhat homebound, this year, there will be caroling for everyone who can access Zoom.  The zoom will be Saturday, December 12th at 4:00 p.m.

Please use this link to join! https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2700683648

Congregational Care Visits Planned

While it is not safe to go caroling this year, the Care Team has plans for safe visits and drive bys to those in the congregation who are isolated or in need of Christmas cheer.  Hopefully these visits will be meaningful to those who participate and will help to rekindle hope, peace, joy, and love!

In-Person Events! 

The church is experimenting with a ‘soft’ re-opening. There will be in- person gatherings and services outside, with masks, and physical distancing. There will be no singing. Participants are encouraged to bring their own chairs.  Some will also be available at the church.  If the weather is wet, the events will be held on the patio.

Here’s what’s coming:

In addition, the weekly guided labyrinth walks will continue on Wednesday mornings at 9:00 a.m. and weekly anti-racism demonstrations will continue on Sunday evenings at 4:30p.m.  All are welcome.  

For those who want to remain engaged with the church ‘remotely’, the church will continue to post a weekly Corona Sabbath with a scripture reading, reflection from Rev. Wells, and music from Hilton Jones.  Paper copies of the Corona Sabbath and the Update will continue to be sent to those who do not use the internet.  

After this period of experimentation, there will be a discussion about how to proceed into the New Year.

TOYS for HOMELESS CHILDREN

Our church family along with the Social Justice Team at Westminster Suncoast has been extremely generous in supporting Maximo Elementary’s children.  To date we have donated uniforms, underwear and Covid 19 supplies which included masks for children.

Ms. Jones has identified 30 homeless children  at the school for whom the Education Ministry Team is going to purchase toys and books for Christmas  gifts using available funds.  For  those who would  personally enjoy  buying toys  for these children  please do so.  The toys may be brought  to  the  outdoor Advent services on December 6th and 13th.  Toys may also be dropped off at the church Tues.-Friday, 9:30-noon.  The toys will be picked up for delivery to the school on Monday, December 14th.

Questions? Call, email or text Emily Bell.

THANKS EVERYONE , those who have already donated  and those who will personally purchase toys, for helping to make Christmas 2020  special for a homeless child.       

LUCC ‘s Education Ministry Team

Work Under Way for Adult Day Care

Finally after a year and a half of planning, the renovations of the Fellowship Hall are underway to prepare for the Adult Day Care program sponsored by Neighborly Services!  So far, a railing has been installed to the back entrance of the Fellowship Hall and the demolition is underway to prepare for the three accessible restrooms that are being installed.  It is very exciting to finally see movement toward the goal of offering needed services to the seniors in our area!

Leadership Selection Process

Each year the congregation is invited to offer names of people that they would like to serve as advisors for the church for the coming year.  Church members are also welcome to volunteer to serve.

 Advisors are charged with seeing that the life and ministry of LUCC is an embodiment of the mission statement of the church.  In addition, the Advisors function in an administrative capacity regarding budget and finance, property, program, and personnel.  They serve as the pastoral relations committee fostering a positive relationship between the congregation and the pastor.  

The advisors have been meeting at least once a month, sometimes in person and sometimes virtually.  This depends on the will of the group.

Please suggest names of those you think would serve well as Advisors for the coming year.  You may email lakewooducc@gmail.com

Corona Sabbath Ahead

The Corona Sabbath post this week follows the theme for the Advent candles.  This week the focus is peace.  How do we think about rekindling peace in our lives this Advent season?  See Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13.

This week Sue Sherwood is reading the scripture, there is a reflection from Rev. Wells, and music from Hilton Jones. 

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath here’s the link:  

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/11/28/corona-sabbath-37-first-sunday-of-advent-hope/

Anti-Racism Demonstrations Continue on Sundays

Weekly demonstrations to end racism continue in front of the church each Sunday. Beginning Dec. 6, the demonstrations will begin at 4:30.  Bring a sign or use one of the signs provided.  Regardless of the outcome of the election, this witness is an important demonstration of Christian values and moral values.  All are welcome to join in!  

And use the following link to see pictures from the last demonstration.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/12/01/anti-racism-demonstration-11-27/

In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

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.

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 the bottom of each page.

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 .

December Birthdays: Becky Palmer 12/16, Amaiya Washington 12/18, George Diven 12/27, Melanie Moore 12/27, Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens, teachers, students, and school personnel, 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!

Church Office Hours:  Tuesday-Friday 9:30-noon. 

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 11/26

Advent Begins!

When we had the Christmas in July Zoom celebration we enjoyed hearing the Christmas story and singing carols.  Well, there is another Zoom Christmas Eve service planned for 5:00 p.m. on Dec. 24th.  There will also be an in-person outdoor service at 7:00 p.m.

The theme for this Advent season at LUCC is Rekindle the Gift from a verse from 2 Timothy.  This is certainly a season to ‘rekindle’ after all that we have been through!  Each week, the Corona Sabbath and daily devotions will focus on the traditional themes for the candles of the Advent Wreath.  Rekindle Hope.  Rekindle Peace.  Rekindle Joy.  And Rekindle Love.

Please see the details below for the Advent season.  May you find needed hope, peace, joy, and love this season!

In Person Services and Gatherings Ahead! 

The church is experimenting with a ‘soft’ re-opening. There will be in person gatherings and services outside, with masks, and physical distancing. There will be no singing. Participants are encouraged to bring their own chairs.  Some will also be available at the church.  

Here’s what’s coming:

In addition, the weekly guided labyrinth walks will continue on Wednesday mornings at 9:00 a.m. and weekly anti-racism demonstrations will continue on Sunday evenings at 5:00 p.m.  All are welcome.  

For those who want to remain engaged with the church ‘remotely’, the church will continue to post a weekly Corona Sabbath with a scripture reading, reflection from Rev. Wells, and music from Hilton Jones.  Paper copies of the Corona Sabbath and the Update will continue to be sent to those who do not use the internet.  

After this period of experimentation, there will be a discussion about how to proceed into the New Year.

TOYS for HOMELESS CHILDREN

Our church family along with the Social Justice Team at Westminster Suncoast has been extremely generous in supporting Maximo Elementary’s children.  To date we have donated uniforms, underwear and Covid 19 supplies which included masks for children.

Ms. Jones has identified 30 homeless children  at the school for whom the Education Ministry Team is going to purchase toys and books for Christmas  gifts using available funds.  For  those who would  personally enjoy  buying toys  for these children  please do so.  The toys may be brought  to  the  outdoor Advent services on December 6th and 13th.  Toys may also be dropped off at the church Tuesday-Friday, 9:30-noon.  The toys will be picked up for delivery to the school on Wednesday, December 16th.

THANKS EVERYONE , those who have already donated  and those who will personally purchase toys, for helping to make Christmas 2020  special for a homeless child.       

LUCC ‘s Education Ministry Team

Work Under Way for Adult Day Care

Finally after a year and a half of planning, the renovations of the Fellowship Hall are underway to prepare for the Adult Day Care program sponsored by Neighborly Services!  So far, a railing has been installed to the back entrance of the Fellowship Hall and the demolition is underway to prepare for the three accessible restrooms that are being installed.  It is very exciting to finally see movement toward the goal of offering needed services to the seniors in our area!

Thanksgiving Services 

Last Sunday, the church offered 2 Thanksgiving services.  One was in-person with masks and social distancing on the lawn of the church under the tree.  About 26 people participated.  There was great joy seeing one another.  The second service was virtual held live at noon from the sanctuary.   Danielle Hintz and Julian Ricciardi were liturgists and Malcolm Wells and Jeff Wells did tech.  Many thanks to all who helped and all who participated.  There was a wonderful spirit of gratitude for many things not the least being LUCC!  Here’s a link to some pictures:

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/11/25/thanksgiving-worship-service/

 OUT OF REGARD FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY THIS EVENT IS BEING CANCELLED 

Sharing a Meal

What is Thanksgiving without food?  And yet many will not be joining family and friends this year because of the health and safety issues involved.  The LUCC Care Team is sponsoring a get together for people from the church to eat together on Thanksgiving.  This gathering will be outdoors with masks and physical distancing.  Participants may bring their own food or have food provided.  Each will bring their own plates, utensils, and drinks.  Those who would like to participate are asked to contact Patti Cooksey so that adequate arrangements can be made for the number of people who will be attending.  More details will be forthcoming.  You can reach Patti at cooksepa@eckerd.edu

Leadership Selection Process

Each year the congregation is invited to offer names of people that they would like to serve as advisors for the church for the coming year.  Church members are also welcome to volunteer to serve.

 Advisors are charged with seeing that the life and ministry of LUCC is an embodiment of the mission statement of the church.  In addition, the Advisors function in an administrative capacity regarding budget and finance, property, program, and personnel.  They serve as the pastoral relations committee fostering a positive relationship between the congregation and the pastor.  

The advisors have been meeting at least once a month, sometimes in person and sometimes virtually.  This depends on the will of the group.

Please suggest names of those you think would serve well as Advisors for the coming year.  You may email lakewooducc@gmail.com

Corona Sabbath Ahead

The theme this week takes us from Thanksgiving to Advent in these troubled times. We sure do need a little Christmas this year!

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath here’s the link:  

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/11/19/corona-sabbath-36-give-thanks/

Anti-Racism Demonstrations Continue on Sundays

Weekly demonstrations to end racism continue in front of the church each Sunday at 5:00 p.m.  Bring a sign or use one of the signs provided.  Regardless of the outcome of the election, this witness is an important demonstration of Christian values and moral values.  All are welcome to join in!  

And use the following link to see pictures from the last demonstration.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/11/24/anti-racism-demonstration-11-22/

In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

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.

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 the bottom of each page.

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 .

November Birthdays: Lucille Ruga 11/9, Emily Bell 11/15, Rev. Susan Sherwood 11/15, Ed Kaspar 11/21, Lorne Palmer 11/21, Bert Lee 11/22, Bill Lindsay 11/23, Wally LeBlanc 11/23, Kai’Lyn Washington 11/27, and Jane Diven 11/29, Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens, teachers, students, and school personnel, 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!

Church Office Hours:  Tuesday-Friday 9:30-noon. 

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 11/18

Many Ways to Give Thanks

Yes, there is a pandemic.  Yes, that means for many of us life is restricted.  Yes, some have lost loved ones and had dear ones contract the virus.  Yes, the COVID 19 crisis has had a devastating economic impact on many.  BUT – there are still things to be grateful for.  Cultivating a spirit of gratitude can help us to maintain our spiritual health especially in times of trial.  

Your LUCC faith community is providing many ways to give thanks this season of Thanksgiving:

In Person Worship Sunday Nov. 22 at 10:30 a.m.

There will be an in person worship service, outdoors, with masks, physical distancing and no singing, on the church grounds Sunday Nov. 22 at 10:30 a.m.  You may bring something that  represents what you are thankful for to add to the altar.  All are welcome!  There will be childcare.

As part of the service, there will be a Ritual of Thanksgiving.  You are invited to bring something that represents what you are thankful for and place it on the altar during the service. 

Virtual Worship Thanksgiving Sunday Nov. 22 at Noon

The church will offer the same service that is being held in person virtually via Zoom/Facebook Live on Sunday Nov. 22 at noon.  Participants will be able to watch the live streaming service taking place in the sanctuary and comment to each other in the chat space provided.  Hopefully this will help to meet the needs of those who are not able or do not feel safe participating in person. Go to the church Facebook page and click on the ‘live’ button on the lower left.  Or use this Zoom link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2700683648. 

Offerings for Thanksgiving

Show your gratitude by extending generosity to others.  Giving helps you to be aware of your abundance.

 In addition to regular church offerings, this Thanksgiving there will be a special collection for the Special Needs Fund of the church which helps people in the church and in the community with basic needs such as rent, utilities, and prescriptions.  The pandemic has increased the needs of our neighbors.  Make your gift in person at the service or send it to the church marked Special Needs, or use PayPal at the church website.  
There will also be a special food collection for Operation Attack.  Cereal, peanut butter, pasta, pasta sauce, and canned meat are needed.  Bring donations to church and place them in the grocery cart at church.

 OUT OF REGARD FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY THIS EVENT IS BEING CANCELLED 

Sharing a Meal

What is Thanksgiving without food?  And yet many will not be joining family and friends this year because of the health and safety issues involved.  The LUCC Care Team is sponsoring a get together for people from the church to eat together on Thanksgiving.  This gathering will be outdoors with masks and physical distancing.  Participants may bring their own food or have food provided.  Each will bring their own plates, utensils, and drinks.  Those who would like to participate are asked to contact Patti Cooksey so that adequate arrangements can be made for the number of people who will be attending.  More details will be forthcoming.  You can reach Patti at cooksepa@eckerd.edu

Thanksgiving Corona Sabbath

For those who have built the Corona Sabbath posts into their devotional routine, there will be a weekly Corona Sabbath post featuring the Thanksgiving music video with the pictures submitted by the congregation.  This will be posted on Friday Nov. 20th. 

In Person Services and Gatherings Ahead! 

In the next two months, the church is going to experiment with a ‘soft’ re-opening.   There will be in person gatherings and services outside, with masks, and physical distancing.  There will be no singing.  Participants are encouraged to bring their own chairs.  Some will also be available at the church.  

Here’s what’s coming:

In addition, the weekly guided labyrinth walks will continue on Wednesday mornings at 9:00 a.m. and weekly anti-racism demonstrations will continue on Sunday evenings at 5:00 p.m.  All are welcome.  

For those who want to remain engaged with the church ‘remotely’, the church will continue to post a weekly Corona Sabbath with a scripture reading, reflection from Rev. Wells, and music from Hilton Jones.  Paper copies of the Corona Sabbath and the Update will continue to be sent to those who do not use the internet.  

After this period of experimentation, there will be a discussion about how to proceed into the New Year.

Leadership Selection Process

Each year the congregation is invited to offer names of people that they would like to serve as advisors for the church for the coming year.  Church members are also welcome to volunteer to serve.

 Advisors are charged with seeing that the life and ministry of LUCC is an embodiment of the mission statement of the church.  In addition, the Advisors function in an administrative capacity regarding budget and finance, property, program, and personnel.  They serve as the pastoral relations committee fostering a positive relationship between the congregation and the pastor.  

The advisors have been meeting at least once a month, sometimes in person and sometimes virtually.  This depends on the will of the group.

Please suggest names of those you think would serve well as Advisors for the coming year.  You may email lakewooducc@gmail.com

Corona Sabbath Ahead

The theme for this week’s Corona Sabbath post is Thanksgiving.  This post includes the music video featuring pictures submitted by the LUCC church family.  

If you missed last week’s Corona Sabbath here’s the link:  

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/11/13/corona-sabbath-35-investment-advice/

Anti-Racism Demonstrations Continue on Sundays

Weekly demonstrations to end racism continue in front of the church each Sunday at 5:00 p.m.  Bring a sign or use one of the signs provided.  Regardless of the outcome of the election, this witness is an important demonstration of Christian values and moral values.  All are welcome to join in!  

And use the following link to see pictures from the last demonstration.

https://lakewooducc.org/2020/11/16/anti-racism-demonstration-11-15/

In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week. Know justice, know peace!

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.

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 the bottom of each page.

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 .

November Birthdays: Lucille Ruga 11/9, Emily Bell 11/15, Rev. Susan Sherwood 11/15, Ed Kaspar 11/21, Lorne Palmer 11/21, Bert Lee 11/22, Bill Lindsay 11/23, Wally LeBlanc 11/23, Kai’Lyn Washington 11/27, and Jane Diven 11/29, Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.

Circle of Concern: JoAnn Reid, William Owen, Wilbur Reid, Jen Degroot, Carolyn Moore, Ann Quinn, Maggie Brizendine, Dave Radens, teachers, students, and school personnel, 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!

Church Office Hours:  Tuesday-Friday 9:30-noon. 

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.