Lutheran Church of Honolulu, 1730 Punahou St., Honolulu, HI 96822; ELCA; 808-941-2566

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LCH E-News—January 6, 2010

From Pastor Jeff

Pastor Jeff LilleyJanuary 6th is Epiphany. So, Happy Epiphany!!

The word “epiphany” is a transliteration of a koine Greek word that means “appearing” or “manifestation.” In Western Christianity the festival of Epiphany is connected with the visitation of the Magi to Jesus at his birth, his baptism, and the manifestation of the Christ to the gentiles. In common usage, an epiphany is an (often) sudden realization or insight that was previously hidden.

I have often wondered what sort of epiphany the Magi had that night as they gazed into the manger. They had traveled far, and according to the story, had even been recruited by Herod to reveal his location so that Herod might have Jesus killed. But what did they see? Did they see a child lying in a manger or a future king? Did they see the progeny of God or the illegitimate son of two young Jewish folks? It is hard to say what they saw, but it seems more than anything, they saw hope lying in that manger.

As we celebrate Epiphany and the beginning of a new year, what do we see in the manger? Will God’s hope born in lowly means have anything to “reveal” to us? I think so. The epiphany of God is less about what God is revealing to us and more about how we are being revealed in God. I wonder how God will reveal God’s self this year in our worshiping community, in our expression as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, as Christians, and as citizens of the cosmos? Can we be open to God’s mission, God’s prodding, and wonderful opportunities for learning, growth, and service?

As I look at our community of faith at Lutheran Church of Honolulu, I am deeply grateful God is truly at work here. As we move into this new year, let us be open to new epiphanies is Christ.

Save the Date for our Youth Ministry Fundraiser!

Each year the youth group requests your help with their Punahou Carnival Parking fundraiser. This year the carnival begins on Friday, February 5th (11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.), and ends on Saturday February 6th (11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.).

We will need up to 6 adult volunteers during each 3-hour shift. Shifts are available in three hour increments between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and midnight each night. Event coordinators provide snacks and drinks, flashlights, and safety vests. You provide the fellowship!

Sign up sheets will be in the Hörmann Courtyard on Sundays in January.

Please contact Jerelyn Watanabe with any questions.

Memorial Service for Gerda M. Turner

Gerda M. Turner, long time member of Lutheran Church of Honolulu, passed away in December of last year. Gerda taught piano for many years and was well known in the community for her writing, music, and interest in just about everything. Gerda was a member of Writers’ Workshop here at LCH and truly enjoyed sharing her craft with her friends. Please join us as we celebrate her life and legacy this Saturday, December 9th, 10:00 a.m. in the Nave. There will be a light lunch following the service.

Donations to the Gerda M. Turner Memorial Fund in lieu of flowers greatly appreciated.

In Celebration of the life of Gerda M. Turner
A Memorial Service

Saturday, January 9th, 10:00 a.m.
Lutheran Church of Honolulu

(Picture of Gerda on her 93rd birthday with Writers’ Workshop. Gerda’s writing from 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2006.)

Last chance to sign up for Oberammergau Trip

Luther Rose graphicThe deadline is fast approaching for you to sign up to join Pastor Jeff for a once in a lifetime trip to Germany. The tour will focus on the sites of the Reformation and will conclude in Oberammergau at the Passion Play. We will visit Berlin, Wittenberg, and Eisleben, cruise down the Rhine, and visit many other wonderful sites. All through the trip Pastor Jeff will offer time for discussion about the development of the Reformation.

This is a wonderful opportunity for great travel, spiritual growth, and joyous fellowship. The trip begins in Berlin June 4th and concludes June 15th in Munich. The cost of the trip is $3,695 exclusive of air. For more details, please contact Pastor Jeff at 808-941-2566, or lilley.j@gmail.com. Also, please visit our website at www.reformationtours.com/site/490868/page/929001


Memorial Service in Memory of Pr. Doug Olsen

Rev. Doug Olsen passed away December 30 after a battle with cancer. Pastor Doug was well-known in the community as a pastor, community organizer, and spiritual leader. He served Calvary by the Sea Lutheran Church for 34 years, retiring in 2002.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, January 29th, 2:30 pm at Calvary by the Sea Lutheran Church, 5339 Kalaniana‘ole Highway Honolulu, HI. Phone: (808) 377-5477.

ANNUAL MEETING SET FOR JANUARY 30TH

The second half of the Lutheran Church of Honolulu Annual Meeting will be held January 30th, 9:15 a.m., in the Nave. We will approve the 2010 budget, receive the congregational reports, and re-elect council members. Please plan to attend this very important meeting!

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