March 2024 Newsletter

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER

ATLANTA, GA

Family Vigil, March 23

10:00 AM -12 Noon

Center your family in faith this Easter season. We will hold our Family Vigil Worship Service and an outdoor Easter Activity including an egg hunt, a petting zoo, and more.

Healing Service of the Word, March 27

7 PM

In-person and Streamed Live

Maundy Thursday, March 28

Worship at 12 Noon and 7 PM

In-person and Streamed Live

We begin the Great Service of the Three Days of Jesus' death and resurrection The service will include the opportunity for individual absolution and Holy Communion, and in the evening, conclude with the stripping of the altar.

Good Friday, March 29

Worship at 12 Noon and 7 PM

In-person and Streamed Live

Neighborhood Stations of the Cross 1:30 PM

12 Noon - Words from the Cross

7 PM - Choral Tenebrae

Since it is the middle of the Service of the Three Days, Good Friday begins abruptly, taking up where Maundy Thursday stopped No procession, no hymn: the prayer of the day is followed by the readings, culminating in an extended passage from the Gospel of St John This year we sing the Gospel rather than reading it.

Continued next page

7 PM - Choral Tenebrae

Michael Devine, a frequent soloist at Redeemer, will sing the narration (Evangelist), as soloists from the Choir take the character roles (Peter, Pilate, Jesus, etc ), and the Choir sings the words of the crowds and, with the Congregation, responds at various points with stanzas of “Ah, Holy Jesus ” Though it is in a very simple, old style, the piece was written in 2013 by Erik Meyer, a Philadelphia church musician

We had prepared the piece for 2020, but it was postponed by COVID. In 2021, we performed it as a virtual choir, assembling 1,041 individual clips of music to allow the choir to “sing together ” We are very grateful for the technologies that made that version possible, but this year we look forward to singing it truly together, in person, in real time, in the room worshiping with you.

Easter Vigil, March 30

7 PM | In-person and Streamed Live

This is the night of salvation! The Great Three Days concludes as we gather around fire, word, water, bread, and wine, proclaiming through story and song that ours is a God who continuously brings life out of death

WELCOME TO REDEEMER

Brandon Davis joined the Redeemer staff as Director of Operations and Finance in February of 2024

Brandon is a Proven leader in the finance, accounting, & operations management fields. He has a track record in delivering results, improving customer satisfaction, and developing strong business & community relationships A seasoned professional with an impressive array of skills and experience in accounting, auditing, business development, financial analysis, strategic planning, and operational roles, Brandon has a passion for helping others

A native of Lansing, Michigan, he is a proud graduate of Central State University, Wilberforce, Ohio. Brandon relocated to Atlanta shortly after graduation and has resided in the Metro Atlanta Area for over 30 years The proud father of two enjoys and prioritizes family time Having served in Finance and Operations leadership roles with multiple 501(c) (3) non-profit organizations, he understands the importance of Serving Others

One of Brandon’s favorite scriptures is: Luke 12:48

“But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.”

The idea of “to whom much is given, much will be required” is that we are held responsible for what we have If we are blessed with talents, wealth, knowledge, time, and the like, it is expected that we use these well to glorify God and benefit others

WORSHIP FAITH FORMATION

Wednesdays at Redeemer

Early Bird Bible Study

4 pm | Reception | Reception / Zoom

Join David Ott as he leads a Bible Study and discussion.

6:00 PM Pastor's Class | Rudisill Hall & Zoom

Lenten book study, Baptism: A Users Guide by Martin Marty

This Lent you will have the opportunity to dive deeper into an understanding of baptism.

CHERUBIM (ages 4-1st grade)

6:15-6:45 pm

SERAPHIM (2nd-6th grade)

6:00-7:00 pm

REDEEMER RINGERS (3rd-6th grade)

6:45-7:15 pm

There are opportunities for anyone age four and up. Children and youth rehearse on Wednesday evenings, and the adult choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings or Sunday mornings. Contact Sarah at shawbecker@redeemerorg or 404-874-8664 with questions, or show up at the next rehearsal

Worship at 7:00 PM

Continuing in the Covenant of Baptism Lenten worship

Wednesday Night Dinner served at 5 PM

Wednesdays at Redeemer Community Meal in partnership with Lutheran Community Food Ministry

Wednesday Night Dinner will be provided by Lutheran Community Food Ministry This will allow us to provide a free, nutritious meal to anyone who wishes If you can, please make a generous donation (perhaps what you would spend on a family dinner at home) to support this daily feeding ministry. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

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:

Wearereturningtoourpre-pandemicpracticeofholdingBaptismFestivals.Thismeanscertain Sundaysaredesignatedforbaptisms,andtheremaybeseveralfamiliescelebratingabaptism atthesametime.

Single-familybaptismswereofferedafterthelateserviceonmostSundaysthroughtheendof theJuly.NOTEthatallbaptismswilltakeplaceonfestivaldatesgoingforward.

PleaseinquireformoredetailsonhowschedulingworksandtogettheBaptismregistrationform.

Upcoming Festival Dates

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)

September 1 (Labor Day Weekend)

October 6

December 29

WhyBaptismFestivals?

Baptismisasacramentcelebratedincommunity.Whilewehavedoneseveralbaptismsaftera worshipserviceforsafetyreasonsduringthepandemic,itisimportantthatthecongregationbe partofthebaptismliturgyasmuchaspossible.

Groupingupbaptismsoncertaindaysallowsustouseaspecialliturgyfocusedonbaptismand trulyhighlightitasaspecialevent,ratherthanitbeingafootnotetoaservicewithadifferent focus.Also,it'sfun!It'sagreatwaytogettoknowotherfamilies,andyourchildwillgrowupwith friendsatRedeemerwhosharetheirbaptismanniversary-aspecialbondthatcanfollowthem throughoutlife.

In Christ,

Deacon Mary Houck (she/her)

Director of Children and Family Ministries

mhouck@redeemer.org 770-778-7085

Greetings Midtown Lutheran Church Family,

We hope this newsletter finds you well and filled with the warmth of the New Year. As we step into January and February, we have some exciting news to share with you from MTLPS

A Year of Growth and Learning:

January marked the beginning of a new year, and at Midtown Lutheran Preschool, we are eager to embark on a year filled with growth, discovery, and joy. Our dedicated team of educators is committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment for your little ones to learn, play, and thrive

Enroll Now for the Fall Semester:

It’s that time of year again – enrollment is open for the upcoming fall semester at Midtown Lutheran Preschool! If you have friends, family, or neighbors looking for a caring and enriching preschool experience, we invite you to share the news with them. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss the opportunity to secure a spot for your child or loved ones

Why Choose Midtown Lutheran Preschool?

Experienced and passionate educators

Play-based learning approach!

Focus on social, emotional, and cognitive development!

Safe and welcoming environment!

Engaging activities and age-appropriate curriculum

Referral Program:

We believe in the power of community, and as a token of our appreciation for your support, we’re introducing a referral program. Refer a family to MTLPS, and when they enroll, both you and the new family will receive a special discount on tuition It’s our way of saying thank you for helping us grow our preschool family

Stay Connected:

Follow us on social media (Facebook, and Twitter) for the latest updates, adorable snapshots of our little learners, and insights into the exciting activities happening at MTLPS

Enrollment is an investment in your child’s future, and we are thrilled to be a part of their educational journey Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of nurturing young minds We are enjoying a wonderful year filled with love, laughter, and learning!

For enrollment inquiries or to schedule a tour, please visit our website, www.mtlps.org or you can email our preschool director (Kisha Johnson) at preschool@redeemer.org.

Family Events Spring and Summer 2024

NOTE: this event is on Palm Sunday Weekend this year, because of spring break

Family Easter Vigil and Egg Hunt

Saturday, March 23: 10:00 am- 12:30 pm

JoinusSaturdaymorning,thedaybeforePALMSUNDAY, forourFamilyEasterVigilworshipandcelebration. funEasteractivities,includingapettingzoo, aspecialversionoftheEasterVigilliturgydesigned forfamilies.

Lastbutnotleast,egghuntfunwithyourRedeemer friends-ages0-5thgrade!

NoRSVPrequired.Inviteafriend!

Family Berry Picking

Saturday,April27

Mark your calendar for a morning of family fun! We will pick our own strawberries at a local farm Watch for more details coming soon

Redeemer Week at Camp

June16-21

Why Camp? What is Redeemer Week? How do I register? What is the cost? You can find answers to all these questions and links for info and registration at this link. Scholarships Available!

Baptized, We Live!

Rejoicing Spirits Worship

Sunday,March17 at10:15am

ThismonthatRejoicingSpirits,wecelebratebeingbaptizedchildrenofGod!Wewillexplore howBaptismfillsuswithGod’sgracesothatwecanpouritoutforothers.

Wemeetat10:15amonselectSundaymorningsinRudisillHall Allagesandabilitiesare welcome.RejoicingSpiritsisa'non-hushing'servicewhereeveryonecanbethemselves.

OurMarchservicewillbehybrid.YoucanjoinworshipdirectlyatthisZoomlink.

WORSHIP

Come Come Table Table tthe

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Lord'sSupperRetreat

Saturday,March16th|9:30am-11:30am

AgesPreKandupandtheirparents.

Whetheryourchildhasbeenwaitingfortheirfirst communionoralreadystartedreceiving,weencouragethem togrowtheirunderstandingofthisancientandholypractice. Notsureifthisistherightyearforyourchildtoparticipate? We'rehappytohelpyoudecide!

9:30am-12pminperson

March17:Blessingin11:00worship

YoucancontactDeaconMarywithquestions, orfindmoreinforationontheregistrationformatthislink.

The Young adult ministry is a group of people in their 20s & 30s creating welcome and support for one another, both at redeemer and in the midtown community!

This spring we are looking forward to exploring the various neighborhoods of Atlanta for fellowship, conversation, theology, and much more! join us as we build community with one another!

Sat., March 16th | 11 AM - 2 PM

St. Patrick’s Parade @ Redeemer

Sun., March 17th | 12:15 PM - 2 PM

Lunch in Midtown after Worship

Wed., April 10th | 7 PM - 8 PM

Young Adult Team Meeting (Hybrid)

Tues., April 23rd | 8 PM - 10 PM

Trivia Night @ Vortex (Little 5 Points)

Sun., April 28th | 12:15 PM - 2 PM

Lunch in Midtown after Worship

Redeemer’s Women of the ELCA invite you to save two dates in 2024!

Be on the lookout for registration forms in the next month.

For Convention information now contact Diana Palma at palmadbmax@gmail.com

For Spring Meeting information now contact Louise Iconis at louise@iconis.com

KEYSTONE MINISTRY

MARCH 6

MONTHLY MID-WEEK WORSHIP & FELLOWSHIP

12 PM in the SANCTUARY

Coffee & Dessert Fellowship to Follow

MARCH 13

MARCH

MARCH 18

MARCH 20

KEYSTONE LEADERS MEETING

3 PM in RUDISILL HALL

LUNCH FELLOWSHIP MEAL

1 PM at MURPHY’S in VIRGINIA HIGHLAND

RSVP to Pr. Jennifer by March 15th.

MONTHLY MOVIE MATINEE: EASTER PARADE

1 PM in RUDISILL HALL

Pictured: Ed Sherlacher & Sophia Foley (GSU Intern) led a prayer and essential oils class at Lutheran Towers on February 13th

We believe Jesus Christ is our cornerstone, the prophets and apostles are our foundation, and Redeemer’s seniors are the keystone of the household of God

ComingUpforRedeemerYouth...

March3:Confirmation, High School Faith Formation, & High School and Beyond Parents Gathering

March9-10:Youth Gathering Fundraiser Setup; Middle School Youth Lock-In

March10:Youth Fundraiser, Confirmation, High School Faith Formation, & Middle School Parents Gathering

March15-17: High School Youth Retreat @ Holy Trinity House at Lutheranch

March17:Youth Fundraiser, Confirmation, & High School Faith Formation

March24:Youth Fundraiser, Confirmation, & High School Faith Formation (Café Sunday)

March31:Last day of Youth Fundraiser! No Confirmation and no High School Faith Formation! Enjoy Easter!

*Picture from last year’s MS Youth Lock-In

“Step Right Up”

Registration is now open. Rising kindergarteners through 6th graders will experience music, art, and drama, all based on this year ’ s animal theme! The camp is from 9:00 am-4:00 pm, with free before and after care. Tuition for the week is $165 and includes all activities, snacks, and a T-shirt. Sibling discounts apply, and need-based financial scholarships are available. All are welcome, so tell your friends and neighbors. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Sarah Hawbecker at 404-874-8664, ext. 206, or shawbecker@redeemer.org. Follow the camp and share our posts on Facebook at facebook.com/RedeemerMusicCamp/

March is Deveopmentally Different AbilitiesMonth

HowdothosewithDevelopmentallyDifferentAbilities helpusunderstandGod’simage?

InGenesis(1:27)wereadthatthroughGod’sverybreatheachofusaremadein theimageofGod-bearingwitnesstoGod’screativityanddiversity!Thismeans thatwhenwelivewithoneanother,specificallythosewithdeveopmentally differentabilities,weexperienceemotion,education,andfaithinanewand excitingway.ThisinvitesustonotonlyseetheimageofGodintheirlives,but toexamineourownunderstandingsofGod’simage,expandingGod’spresence andimageasmorethanjustphyscialandintellectualabilitiesLifewithone anotherthenbecomesamorecompletepictureofthekin-domofGod!

HowcanIsupportandcelebratethosewith DevelopmentallyDifferentAbilitiesandtheirfamilies?

BuildingrelationshipsisakeywaytosupportandcelebratethosewithDevelopmentallyDifferent Abilities,includinggettingtoknowindividuals,families,andcommunityorganizationsfamiliar withservingthosewithDevelopmentallyDifferentAbilities

HereatRedeemer,eachmonthwehostaspecialworshipservicecalledRejoicingSpiritsthatoffers differentlyabledstudents,theirfamilies,andourcongregationtheopportunittytoworshipina spacethatcelebratestheirgiftsandparticipation.Pleasemakeplanstojoinusasallarewelcome andencouragedtoparticipateinthisbeautifulministry!

WherecanIfindadditionalresourcesthismonthtoeducatemyself?

Did you know?

In 1987, President Ronald Reagan declared March as National Disabilities Awareness Month. This proclamation called for people to provide understanding, encouragement, and opportunities of education, celebration, and advocacy for people with disabilities and the ways they contribute to our communities and society.

Congregational Care Team Meeting

March 24th at 12 PM - 1 PM Reception Room

The congregational care team will gather with Pr. Jennifer for a light lunch and meeting of support and collaboration.

New Member Classes at Redeemer

Sundays at 10 AM (Church Library)

April 14 - May 19

Are you looking for an inclusive and supportive congregational home? Do you want to know more about Lutheran theology, Redeemer history, and the ministry opportunities here?

Join Pr Jennifer in a six week session that covers Lutheran theology, Redeemer history, and the various ways you are invited and equipped to live out your faith here at Redeemer!

Contact: Pr. Jennifer (jroberts@redeemer.org) or CLICK HERE to fill out a New Member Form

A Spirituality of Caregiving: A Sacred Space of Support for Caregivers

Mondays from 7 PM - 8 PM (Zoom)

April 8 - May 20

Caring for others, specifically those you love, is a holy honor, but it is also one that can be difficult and lonely. Join Pr. Jennifer for a time of support and discussion centered on those who care for others as we explore the spirituality of caregiving.

The group will discuss portions of the book No Act of Love is Ever Wasted (By: Thibault & Morgan) Reading is not required to participate.

march BIRTHDAYS

1 Susan Dowdell

1 Leslie Misch

1 Jimmy Taylor

2 Harriet Burnett

2 Blake Reno

2 Brody Wright

3 Nikki Chunn

3 David Kalin

3 Max Waterhouse

4 Lily Glass

4 Liesl Merkel

4 Veronica Reno

4 Amanda Wuest

5 Andrew Currie

5 Miatta Dennis

5 Davis Hermann

5 Charmaine Isenhour

5 Trina Steinbach

5 Laura Sundal

6 Matthew Bohannon

6 Joseph McCloskey

6 Katie Staak

6 Valerie Walters

6 Noelle Whitmire

8 Amanda Martin

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11 Jacob

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12 Brandon Mosley

12 Micah

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21 Jim Huiner

21 Ted Neuman

21 Beth Robison

22 Fenwick Huss

22 Joel Hutsell

22 Vicki Morelock

23 Claudia Barnes

23 Lilia Bohntinsky

24 Wren Carlson

24 John Hagan

24 Dominique Martin

24 Victa McCray

25 Charlotte Barnes

25 Dick Cordell

26 Erik Belgum

26 Tina Gooch

26 Tom Kegley

26 Judy Rohrer

27 Karin Tackett

27 Erik Viberg

28 Nichole Beck

28 Julian Carlson

28 Michele Poirier

28 Hunter Reed

29 Sarah Boltz

29 James Heidt

29 Melanie Latham

30 Connie Eshenour

30 Jackson Mayo

30 Wesley Moss

31 David Besherse

31 Ronald Hale

31 Matthew Isaacson

31 Don Schroer

31 Tammy Troy