Newsletter December 2023

DECEMBER 2023

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF

THE REDEEMER ATLANTA, GA

Christmas Eve 2023 *10:00 AM Choir and Organ Advent 4 12:00 pm German Church Atlanta Service Traditional worship in the German language with Holy Communion.

3:00 pm Family and Children’s Service A Christmas message with lessons and carols for children with Holy Communion. *6:00 pm Jazz Service Worship begins with the prelude featuring the Redeemer Jazz Trio with Holy Communion. *8:00 and *11:00 pm Christmas Services The celebration begins with a musical prelude of instrumental and choir music. Services include traditional carols with Holy Communion. *Prelude begins 30 minutes prior to service.

DECEMBER EVENTS DECEMBER EVENTS

Christmas Program and Advent Celebration Sunday, December 3, 10:00 am Redeemer Sanctuary Our Children's Christmas Program will be held in the sanctuary at the beginning of our faith formation hour.

After the program, join us in the atrium for refreshments and Advent activities for kids and their families, or join your favorite adult faith formation class.

Please plan to attend the program and support our kids as they tell this ancient and beautiful story in their own way.

t r o p Sup ids! our k

Is the holiday cheer missing this yearIsfor Then join us for a this theyou? holiday cheer missing year for you? Then join us for a

BLUE CHRISTMAS A SERVICE OF LAMENT, HEALING, AND HOPE

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 4 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 4 PM WITH HOLY COMMUNION WITH HOLY COMMUNION In person and Livestream In person and Livestream

You Invi 're ted!

DECEMBER EVENTS Just what will Bethlehem make of this gift? What will we make of this Greatest Gift of All? Redeemer’s life-saving gift to Atlanta this Christmas will be us: 35 – 40 role players (some youth roles) and backstage people engaging with our guests, neighbors, and members among ancient artisan and craft tents, musicians, singers, Pharisees, Roman soldiers & officials, innkeepers, and a young mother and a baby boy who seemed to have dropped down Redeemer’s 2023 MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS gift to

from Heaven. Please consider

Atlanta is coming to Redeemer Green on December

playing a part in this outreach

10th! This iconic, annual visual, and personally

gift to Atlanta on December

engaging proclamation of our core belief by

10th (rain date Dec 17th). Visit

Redeemer re-enactors who re-imagine the day after

the Bethlehem Village Table

Jesus is born in Bethlehem. Dramatic images of

starting on Sunday, November

bakers, potters, weavers, chandlers, artists,

12th, in the Sims Atrium for

musicians, Roman soldiers, tax collectors, Pharisees,

information and to volunteer

furry stable animals, and the surprise arrival of

in any capacity. Questions

three regal strangers from afar. All because making

anytime: contact Don Noland

his appearance into the world amid stable animals

(dfnoland@gmail.com), Janet

in tiny, backwater Bethlehem is Baby Jesus - God’s

Preston

mightiest act of love!

(janethaury@gmail.com), or Terry Longstreth

Unprecedented?

Spectacular?

Frightening?

Humbling? Grace-filled? YES to all? Of course! God’s fulfillment of his promise to us has appeared as a tiny baby, born at just the right time into a world full

of

danger,

uncertainty.

distrust,

fear,

oppression,

and

(terrylongstreth@mindspring. com)

Saint Lucia Celebration 2023 Sunday December 10, 6:00pm Nordic Lodge 708 and Scandinavian Festival Inc. are pleased to present the annual “Sankta Lucia” celebration on Sunday December 10th, 6:00 PM, at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. Admission is free.

This candlelit, music-filled celebration features traditional and contemporary Swedish Christmas music.

The service will be sung and spoken in Swedish and English. Choral performances feature the St. Lucia choir, composed of children, women, and men from the local Swedish-American community. Ms. Mia Peters will conduct the performance.

The St. Lucia tradition is celebrated on December 13 in Sweden and some areas in Finland. The main ceremony is a procession of singing children led by a single “Lucia,” a young woman wearing a white gown, red sash, and a crown of candles. She is attended by her handmaidens and “star boys,” also dressed in white gowns and all carrying candles.

After the celebration, a reception featuring coffee and sweets will be held in the Sims Atrium.

As we prepare our hearts and minds for the recognition of Christ Jesus and his birth this Advent season, we encourage all of you to join the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA in a 25-mile journey to Bethlehem. We invite you to commit to the following: For 25 days (December 1-25) Walk 1 mile per day Donate $25 to benefit Augusta Victoria Hospital CLICK HERE TO GIVE In making this commitment, we hope you reflect on the journey of Mary and Joseph, and consider how God's grace impacts your life.

If you wish to let us know that you will join this journey, simply fill out the registration at this link.

Help us create a

Merry Christmas for the foster boys and girls living under Goshen Valley's care!

Goshen Valley

Giving Tree

Nov 12 - Dec 10 You can donate items two ways: donate gifts using the Amazon list, which will ship items directly to Goshen Valley donate household items using tags on the giving tree in Sims Atrium, and bring the items to church with you.

Amazon Link Coming Soon!

Thank you for your generosity!

MAC COAT DRIVE

"If you have two coats, give one away," he said. "Do the same with your food."

Luke 3:11 Hello Redeemer Family, Luke’s words are ones we need to keep in mind this time of year. Redeemer does share food through the Lutheran Community Food Ministry, Wednesday dinners, and Midtown Assistance Center. Now, we have an opportunity to help with the first part of his message. The weather is turning cold, with some nights in the low 40s already. Please keep those in mind who might not have the clothing they need to keep warm.

For December, Redeemer is doing our Annual Coat Drive for one of our ministry partners, Midtown Assistance Center (MAC). The drive will be held at Redeemer, beginning Sunday, December 3 through Sunday, December 31, 2023, in Sims Atrium, utilizing barrels or large plastic storage containers labeled MAC COAT DRIVE for collection of gently used Men’s, Women’s, and Children’s Outerwear (coats/jackets/parkas/etc.) for the MAC closet, to be offered to community members less fortunate during the cold winter weather. We are hoping to get donations early so they can provide coats to those in need as part of the Christmas giving for MAC clients. Richard Mauney will periodically gather the outerwear offered by the congregation from the Sims atrium barrels/bins and deliver to MAC, during the Annual Coat Drive timeframe. Your generosity at this holy time of the year will be greatly appreciated.

WORSHIP

Baptism at Redeemer Greetings! If you or someone you know is expecting a child or interested in baptism at Redeemer at any age, we would love to celebrate this special milestone with your family! We have several dates available. Here are some details: We are returning to our pre-pandemic practice of holding Baptism Festivals. This means certain Sundays are designated for baptisms, and there may be several families celebrating a baptism at the same time.

Single-family baptisms were offered after the late service on most Sundays through the end of the July. NOTE that all baptisms will take place on festival dates going forward.

Please inquire for more details on how scheduling works and to get the Baptism registration form.

Upcoming Festival Dates December 31, 2023 at 10 am (New Year’s Eve Combined Worship) Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 11 am (during our Family Easter Vigil Service) Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 7pm (during the traditional Easter Vigil Service) May 26, 2024 (Memorial Day Weekend)

Why Baptism Festivals?

Baptism is a sacrament celebrated in community. While we have done several baptisms after a worship service for safety reasons during the pandemic, it is important that the congregation be part of the baptism liturgy as much as possible.

Grouping up baptisms on certain days allows us to use a special liturgy focused on baptism and truly highlight it as a special event, rather than it being a footnote to a service with a different focus. Also, it's fun! It's a great way to get to know other families, and your child will grow up with friends at Redeemer who share their baptism anniversary- a special bond that can follow them throughout life.

In Christ, Deacon Mary Houck (she/her) Director of Children and Family Ministries mhouck@redeemer.org 770-778-7085

WORSHIP

Baptism at Redeemer Greetings! If you or someone you know is expecting a child or interested in baptism at Redeemer at any age, we would love to celebrate this special milestone with your family! We have several dates available. Here are some details: We are returning to our pre-pandemic practice of holding Baptism Festivals. This means certain Sundays are designated for baptisms, and there may be several families celebrating a baptism at the same time.

Going forward, if your family would like to request a single family baptism after worship, we will offer those on a case-by-case basis. Please ask! NOTE: This option will be available until July 2023, at which time we will move to baptismal festivals only.

Please inquire for more details on how scheduling works and to get the Baptism registration form.

Spring Festival Dates Saturday, April 8, 2023 at the Family Easter Vigil Service, 11 am or the evening Easter Vigil Service at 7 pm Sunday, May 28, 2023 at either service

Lord's Supper Retreat Saturday, March 18th | 9:30 am- 11:30 am Ages PreK and up and their parents.

Come to the

Table

Whether your child has been waiting for their first communion or already started receiving, we encourage them to grow their understanding of this ancient and holy practice. Not sure if this is the right year for your child to participate? We're happy to help you decide!

9:30-11:30 in person, 1-3 pm Zoom March 20: Blessing in Worship at either service You can contact Deacon Mary with questions, or go directly to the registration form at this link.

For more information about Baptism or Communion instruction:

Deacon Mary Houck (she/her) Director of Children and Family Ministries mhouck@redeemer.org 770-778-7085

CHILDREN AND FAMILY MINISTRY

Family Events December 2023 Christmas Program and Family Advent Celebration Dress Rehearsal on Saturday, Dec. 2, program on Sunday, Dec. 3 If your family is participating in the performance, we have one more required Dress Rehearsal on Saturday, December 3: 9:30-11:00 am. Whether or not you are in the program, we hope your family will join in the audience and then stay for brunch and advent activities for your whole family!

Goshen Valley Gift Drive November 12- December 10 One of the ways we walk alongside children in foster care is by helping Goshen Valley provide them with Christmas gifts. Each child gets to choose a few things they want for Christmas, and we get to make their Christmas wishes come through by using their Amazon list. It's an easy way to make a big difference for kids in our community! We will also collect some household items for the host parents at the giving tree in Sims Atrium. Watch for the link to the Amazon list coming soon!

Redeemer’s Live Nativity

Sunday, December 11, 1- 4 pm The Live Nativity will be held again this year on Redeemer Green, including a Bethlehem ‘village’ of tents with activities and demonstrations, live music, and, of course, a real manger scene complete with live animals you can pet!

This year, we are cancelling Sunday School for ages 5th grade and under and providing lunch after the late service so as to encourage and enable Redeemer families to participate. We hope you’ll journey with us to Bethlehem to greet baby Jesus!

Family Christmas Eve Service December 24, 3- 4 pm At 3:00 pm on Christmas Eve we are excited to return to our in-person Family Christmas Eve service! We love to have our kids help out and lead this special service for their friends, families, and our visitors (worship helpers arrive at 2:15 pm). Please fill out this short form to express interest if you would like to help. Deacon Mary will then work with you to find the right role for your child. .

Mark Your Calendar!

Monday, January 15: MLK Day Family Project February 9-11: Family Retreat Saturday, March 23: Family Easter Vigil and Egg Hunt Saturday, April 27 : Family Fun Day- Berry Picking Outing

For more information, contact Deacon Mary Houck at mhouck@redeemer.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY

Love is Born!

Rejoicing Spirits Worship Sunday, December 17 at 10:15 am This month at Rejoicing Spirits, we have a celebration of Jesus in songs! Join us a little early at 10:00 for a fun Christmas craft, and come ready to make a joyful noise.

We meet at 10:15 am on select Sunday mornings in Rudisill Hall. All ages and abilities are welcome. Rejoicing Spirits is a 'non-hushing' service where everyone can be themselves.

Our December service will be in person only. If you are interested in attending on Zoom, please speak to Deacon Mary.

Redeemer Youth Grades 6-12 Upcoming Events DEC 3, 10, 17

Our Kringles will be ready to be distributed on Sunday, December 17. Thanks again for supporting our youth!

DEC 3

Our High School and Beyond Parents will be meeting on this day for their monthly gathering.

DEC 3

Our Middle School and High School Youth will have their Christmas Party on Sunday, December 3. RSVP was due November 26.

DEC 10

Our Middle School Parents will meet on Sunday, December 10 for their monthly gathering!

Coming Up for Redeemer Youth...

12/3-Kringles Distribution begins, Confirmation, HS Faith Formation, HS Parents and Beyond Gathering, and Youth Christmas Party 12/10-Kringles Distribution continues, Confirmation, HS Faith Formation, MS Parents Gathering 12/17-Kringles Distribution ends, Confirmation, HS Faith Formation (Cafe Sunday), and Youth Christmas Eve Worship Practice 12/24-No Youth Faith Formation-have a great Christmas Eve! 12/31-No Youth Faith Formation-have a great New Years Eve!

YOUNG ADULT

We had a great time at our first annual retreat in the Holy Trinity House at Lutheranch. We shared good, homemade food and fellowship, dove into Pr. Jenny’s thought-provoking workshop on the ‘theological worlds’ that shape our lives at different stages, tried archery and actually hit some targets! Watch for announcements in summer 2024 about our next retreat.

REDEEMER YA DECEMBER EVENTS

Lunch Together Dec 3

Join us for a reception after the 11:00 service in Sims Atrium, where we will celebrate Pr. Jenny’s time at Redeemer and bid her and her family a fond farewell.

Refreshments will be provided, but whoever wishes to can continue to lunch in the neighborhood after the reception.

Christmas Party Sat. Dec 9

Hosted by Jared Joella who lives just a few blocks from Redeemer. Bring food to share and an item for our second annual White Elephant gift exchange (limit of $25).

IN US F E JO OR S A A LE P

Magical & spiritual KEYSTONE CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION THURS

DEC 7 2023

11:30 AM - 2:00 PM PLEASE CLICK HERE TO REGISTER WORSHIP~LUNCH~FRIENDS Sunday Dec 3 deadline

KEYSTONE

Monthly Gatherings NOVEMBER BEAD BRACELET BLESSINGS

CONGREGATIONAL CARE

New Members Interested in joining the Redeemer community?

You belong here The next new member classes will be Spring 2024.

Click Here to sign up

Read their bios in the November Newsletter

Tammy Wyse

Bearing one another's burdens and mourning with those who mourn, we pray, Almighty God, source of all mercy and giver of comfort, graciously tend those who mourn, that, casting all their sorrow on you, they may know the consolation of your love; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lena Maude Mueller

Entered the church triumphant November 21, 2023

We pray for David, Wendy, and Peg Wyse, as they mourn the death, of David’s sister, Tammy. Condolences may be sent to: David Wyse, 324 Glendale Ave Decatur, GA 30030

Judy Scroggs

Entered the church triumphant November 2, 2023

Entered the church triumphant November 22, 2023

We pray for Erica Fletcher, daughter of Lena Maude, Glenn, GT, Paxton, and Charli, as they mourn the death of Lena Maude Mueller. Condolences may be sent to The Fletcher Family 660 Briars Bnd, Alpharetta, GA 30004

We pray for Cynthia Reese-McKersie as she mourns the death of her cousin, Judy.

Condolences may be sent to: Cynthia Reese-McKersie, 2881 Peachtree Rd NE Apt 1205, Atlanta, GA 30305

CONGREGATIONAL CARE CONGRERGATIONAL CARE

OUT OF THE DARKNESS On November 5th a group from Redeemer joined hundreds of people in Piedmont Part to walk in the 20th annual Atlanta Out of Darkness Community Walk. The walk is a walk of solidarity to support all who have been affected by suicide. Together with over 3,5000 walkers, we raised $431,143 for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

In a crisis? Call or text 988

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS 1 Chris Black 1 Merritt Carlson 1 Andrea Dorsey 1 Michelle Ernst 1 Andy Grant 1 Thomas Ruder 1 Nyla Searcy 2 Allen Hedrick 2 Hollyn Kershner 2 John Lester 2 Charles Smith 3 Sandy Arshid 3 Charles Bridgers 3 Claire Currie 3 Tina Maxwell 4 Chris Drescher-Jones 4 John Hinkle 4 Margo Jones 4 Lisa Stanley 4 Priscilla Taylor 5 Robyn Hollar 5 Violet Waterhouse 5 Terese Wuttke 6 Geri Ginsberg 6 Kristen Ulven 7 Rehana Ballard 7 David Barnes 7 Paul Buechele 7 Pearla Holmes 7 Marilynn Kelm 7 Brian Kraby 7 Anna Rafferty 7 Natalie Williams 8 Mary Brown 8 Mary Houck 8 Maren Roke 8 Ben Scheraldi-Keiso 9 Matthew Johnson 9 Eda Mathews 9 Debbie Perantoni 10 Abigail Barnes 10 Devlin Kate Dressel 10 Deb Fritz 10 Chase Lundsberg 10 Lori Sadowski

11 Jack Altman 11 Nate Borchers 11 Julien Fowlkes 11 Greta Hans 11 Diane Ludington 12 Eli Arnold 12 Valrie Sanders 13 Joseph Anderson 13 Lourdes Dela Cruz 13 Daphne Mullen 14 Jennifer Hickey 14 Kerry Keisler 15 Carol A Christman 16 Sengens Amy-Cupp 16 Sara Denney 16 Ella Goracke 16 Meredith Steinmetz 17 Rita Hale 17 Mark Hyde 17 Carol Rekoske 17 Linus Roke 17 Mitchell Sosebee 18 Mary Kay Daly 18 Karin Davis 18 Ryan Switzer 19 Kacie Anson 19 Paula Bonaker 19 Mary Anne Hipple 19 Christiane Jones 19 Isabel Reynolds 20 Mike Bell 20 Jeff Burmeister 20 Julie Delbrook 20 Vinoo Khadan 20 Audrey Koth 20 Kelly Springfield 21 John Mallet 21 Elizabeth Manning 21 Cathy Vogel 22 Oni Borchers 22 Jordan Mitchell 22 Kip Serfozo

23 Kathleen Crawford 23 Niv Persaud 23 Thomas Pinyan 23 Ericka Van Hoosear 24 Doug Dumont 24 Marisa Lambert 24 Evelyn Reynolds 25 Lisa Martin 25 Jennifer Rice 25 Leigh Wilde 26 Lisa Bellia-Doan 26 Ruth Bruhns 26 David Carlson 26 Kim Davis-Mitchell 26 Brian Ernst 26 Chris Fernandes 26 Alex Hansen 26 Stephanie Pinyon 26 Alisa Rowe 26 Wesley Van Hoosear 27 Charlotte Herold 27 Erik Johanson 27 David McGahan 27 Steve Switzer 27 Mike Van Gorder 28 Rachael Hansen 28 Sally Heidt 28 Emma Morris 29 Eryn Epting 29 Shannon King-Cortopassi 29 Nicolas Paetz 29 Lars Peterson 29 Mazie Switzer 30 Leslie Apetz 30 Anne Burr 30 Robin Durdin 30 Jennifer Iodice 31 Deborah Bursa 31 Marc Goracke 31 Joseph Huntemann 31 Ellen Olson 31 Jack Olsson 31 Jean-Francois Onivogui