In this issue:
- Give Aloha Returns September 1!
- Pastor Amanda McGlynn and Family Arriving Soon
- First Mondays Concert: Jewel in the Lotus
- LCH Office Hours
- Stewardship Corner
- Committee/Interest Group Chairs
- Leadership Roundtable
- Game Day
- Book of Faith Bible Study
- Restorative Yoga
- Godly Play Sunday School Resumes September 6
- Adult Forum
- VIA Social Justice Ministry
- Ethan Street Turns 50 and You’re Invited
- Invitation to Rector’s Installation at Parish of St. Clement
- Hawaiian Language Classes for Beginners
- Food for Thought
- Writers’ Workshop
- Join Our Workday
- Seeking Volunteers & Donations for One Pot, One Hope
- Mary Magdalene Society Potluck and Game Night
- LutherFest! Save the Date
- Preliminary Results of the Silver Tsunami Survey
- Help Feed Our Neighbors!
- Angel Network In-Gathering
- HeartBeat Deadline
- Electronic Funds Transfers for July
- Attendance and Offerings for August
- Prayer Requests
- September Birthdays
- Calendar: September 2026
Give Aloha Returns September 1!
LCH Org Code: 78224
We are registered again to participate in the annual Give Aloha Program, sponsored by Foodland/Western Union. During the month of September, donations to Give Aloha, up to $249, will be accepted at any Foodland or Sack N Save. Don’t forget your Maika‘i Card and use the LCH Organization Code (78224) at the time of your donation. Foodland and Western Union will match every gift received up to $300,000 for all combined participating organizations.
Pastor Amanda McGlynn and Family Arriving Soon
Pastor Amanda McGlynn, LCH’s new spiritual leader, her husband Pastor Cole, and their children, Rowan and Nora, will arrive by early September.
Pr. Cole’s first worship service at Pōhai Nani in Kāne‘ohe is Sunday, September 6, so they will be worshiping there that Sunday. Pr. Amanda will preach and preside at LCH on Sunday, September 13.
Pr. Amanda’s first day of work set for Tuesday, September 8.
Pr. Amanda’s installation is scheduled for Friday evening, November 13. The celebration will begin with a pūpū reception at 6:00, followed by the service of installation at 7:00 pm. ELCA Pacifica Synod Bishop David Nagler will preside at the installation. Please mark your calendars now.
First Mondays Concert: Jewel in the Lotus
Monday, September 14, at 7:00 pm in the Nave
The 2026–2027 season of First Mondays Concerts will begin with acclaimed saxophonist Allen Won and friends in a program they are calling “Jewel in the Lotus.” Joining Allen will be Tommy James on piano, Noel Okimoto on the drums, and Dean Taba on bass.
Enjoy the creations of our pūpū chefs’ creations with pūpū and conversation at 6:15 pm, with the concert beginning at 7:00 pm.
First Mondays concerts are free, with a $20 suggested donation. Donations in September will benefit the Hawai‘i Foodbank, a nonprofit organization that works to end hunger by providing nutritious food to individuals and families in need. Through a network of community partners, volunteers, and local farmers, they distribute fresh and staple foods, support children and seniors, and respond during times of crisis. Hawaiʻi Foodbank is essential to strengthening food security and caring for Hawaiʻi’s communities.
Check out the entire season by visiting the First Mondays Concert Series page on the LCH website.
LCH Office Hours
- Monday—Closed
- Tuesday—9:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Wednesday—9:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Thursday—9:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Friday—9:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Saturday–Sunday—Closed
We recommend calling the office (808-941-2566) before dropping in to see the administrator, as schedules may vary with appointments, other work commitments, and lunch breaks.
The administrator will be out of town from July 7 to July 20. You can still reach her by email at lch@lchwelcome.org or at the office phone beginning July 13.
Please visit the LCH website at www.lchwelcome.org for more information about weekly events and ministries, and to access the public LCH Facebook page for online worship services.
Committee/Interest Group Chairs
| Committee/Group | Leader |
|---|---|
| Archive: | Jim Cartwright |
| Concert: | Barry Wenger |
| Communications: | Carol Langner |
| Council: | Teresa McCreary |
| Hospitality: | Jeanne Castello |
| Finance: | Roy Helms |
| Financial Review: | Sheena Lim-Urban |
| Food for Thought: | Marlise Tellander |
| Lay Ministers: | Carolyn Koehler |
| Learning Ministry: | Fred Benco |
| Mary Magdalene: | Bill Potter Roy Helms |
| Property: | Richard Mundell |
| Safety: | Dan Dennison |
| Scholarship: | Fred Benco |
| Silver Tsunami: | Peter Flachsbart Barbara Poole-Street |
| Social Ministry: | Mary Fastenau |
| Stewardship: | Phyllis Hörmann Willow Chang |
| Values In Action: | LJ Friedman |
| Website: | Bill Potter |
| Welcoming: | Phyllis Hörmann |
| Worship & Music: | Randy Castello |
| Writers’ Workshop: | Peter Flachsbart |
Acts of Service II
Early Saturday morning, August 15, as the state anxiously watched the advance of tropical storm Lala, the LCH campus was buzzing with activity. Volunteers were busy preparing for the Free Store that day. Tables were carefully positioned to avoid any rain that might fall in the courtyard. Donated goods were sorted and displayed for the guests who would soon arrive.
Despite worries that perhaps no one would come because of the approaching storm, 20 people were lined up at the entrance when the gates opened at 10:00 am. They eagerly began their search for treasure as the band Mele Makena played upbeat songs, and the Bubble Guy made enormous bubbles on the front lawn, inviting all to join him.
Making all of this happen were the 25 volunteers who spent several hours setting up, managing the sale, and cleaning up afterwards. Because of their efforts, at least 65 family groups left with items they could use in their homes. Just about everyone took the time to thank us and ask for the date of the next sale, making it clear that this event was worthwhile.
But the benefits of the sale will extend beyond those of our “shoppers.” The leftover items will now be taken to thrift stores, non-profit groups, and shelters to benefit still others. At the same time, members of the LCH ‘ohana were able to declutter their homes without adding to the landfill. A win-win-win for all involved!
Many thanks to those who donated goods, volunteered, and spread the word about the sale to the community. You made a difference!
Our Free Store—along with our concerts, forums, sandwich-making, and more—demonstrate that “God’s Work, Our Hands” is not just a slogan but the way we live out our calling to serve our neighbor.
Barbara Poole-Street for the Stewardship Team
Barbara Poole-Street, Bill Potter, Cindy Scheinert, Mark Russell, Phyllis Hormann, Willow Chang
Leadership Roundtable
Tuesday, September 1, at 6:30 pm • Via Zoom Meeting
Committee chairs and team leaders, please plan to gather for this opportunity for us to sit down together and share information on what is happening with all the ministries at LCH Each month’s meeting takes place on the Zoom online meeting platform. Please refer to your email for the Zoom login details. If you are a committee or team leader, you will receive an email with login information. Please be prepared to share a little information on your activities with the group. Mahalo!
Game Day
Wednesday, September 2, at 1:00 pm in Isenberg Hall
Please join Paula Wheeler for Game Day on Wednesday, September 2, from 1:00 to 3:00 in Isenberg Hall. We will meet for lively conversation and some fun games. If you have any questions or suggestions call Paula at 808-542-2843.
VIA hard at work making postcards to encourage voter turnout.Book of Faith Bible Study
Thursdays, 10:00 am • In-person and Via Zoom Meeting
The Book of Faith Bible Study meets on Thursday mornings in-person or via Zoom meeting. All are welcome to join this lively discussion of the Biblical texts, relevant current events, and historical foundations. Please contact Cathy Baptista at cathynt@gmail.com to receive an invitation to the next Zoom Bible study discussion.
Join us as we continue our journey through the Book of Acts, which tells the story of the early church.
Restorative Yoga
Thursdays at 6:30 pm • Via Zoom Meeting
Explore the restorative and ancient practice of yoga, led by LCH member Willow Chang. As a yoga practitioner for over 30 years, Willow shares the joy, wonder, and enthusiasm of a beginner. She emphasizes the origins, cultural context, and safe practice of yoga for all by sharing aspects of yoga, from pranayama (breathing exercises) and yogic philosophy (ahimsa), to poses, referred to as asanas.
Join for one, two, or all sessions from the safety of your own shelter-in-place. These unique classes also provide an opportunity to answer your questions about yoga practice and form. You don’t need yoga pants, previous experience, youth, flexibility, or any real-life experience in India to learn about yoga. Bring your amazing self to be in wonder of your abilities! Please contact Willow Chang (willowchang@hotmail.com) to be included in the weekly Zoom meeting invitation. Let’s learn and find a new center, together!
Godly Play Sunday School Resumes September 6
Sundays at 9:00 am in the Godly Play Room
Godly Play is a Sunday school curriculum for children from kindergarten through 5th grade.
Most of the year we meet each Sunday in the Godly Play Room at 9:00 for a story, discussion and creative response using the form and techniques of Godly Play. All children kindergarten through 5th grade are welcome!
Sunday School topics for September:
- 9/6—The Falling Apart
- 9/13—The Flood and the Ark
- 9/20—The Great Family
- 9/27—The Story of Joseph
The Mele Makana perform at the our LCH Free Store.Adult Forum
Sundays at 9:00 am in the Boardroom
On September 6, Peter Muschinske will speak on church-state relations. Peter is a retired Navy admiral and chaplain, so his insights will be especially pertinent and interesting in these crazy times. The following three Sundays, Dr. Steve Miller will compare Hinduism with Christianity. In October, we will return to comparing Christianity and Buddhism.
Please join us on Sunday mornings at 9:00 am in the Boardroom.
VIA Social Justice Ministry
Mondays at 5:20 pm • In-person, online link available by request
Values In Action (VIA) is changing its weekly meeting time! Starting this week, our regular meetings will now be held on Mondays at 5:20 pm. We will still be in the Boardroom, and will still offer virtual attendance by request. On September 28th, we will meet virtually only.
VIA continues to be dedicated to learning together, partnering with local organizations, and serving our wider community. We have already:
- Held two successful town halls, with representatives and political candidates in our area on the city, state, and federal level
- Led voter registration efforts on UH Mānoa campus
- Organized two postcard-writing campaigns encouraging voters across the US to participate in their local primaries and midterm elections
If you would like to be involved in our future efforts, please join us on Mondays as we continue our programming for the rest of the year. Mahalo!
Ethan Street Turns 50 and You’re Invited
Saturday, September 12, from 5:30 to 8:30in Isenberg Hall
Ethen Street is celebrating his birthday Please plan to come and enjoy the fun! The theme, Festival of Stars, celebrates his love of theatre, both movie and stage. No production would be complete without the stars, such as all of you who have played such important roles in his life.
Come in costume or visit the costume corner once you’re here. Please, no gifts. Ethan has accumulated too much of everything in his 50 years! But if you must, make it a donation to LCH. Please RSVP to bpoolestreet@gmail.com.
Hawaiian Language Classes for Beginners
Saturdays, beginning September 19, at 10:00 am • Isenberg Hall
David Del Rocco, LCH choir member, author, and long-time member of the LCH ‘ohana, will offer beginning Hawaiian language classes for our congregation and the community starting September 19 and running through November 7. The eight one-hour classes, which meet in-person only, are designed for beginners, and no experience with the language is necessary. Students will learn some important vocabulary and gain an understanding of the complexities of the language, and by the end of the eight-week course, they will be able to introduce themselves and construct simple sentences in Hawaiian. Participants should come to class with a willingness to try something new and bring a notebook and pen or pencil for taking notes.
The cost of the course is $80 for the eight one-hour lessons. This is a fundraiser for LCH, with half of your tuition money going to the church. Please register and pay by September 9. Registration forms are available at church, or follow this link for instructions for registering by mail or electronically.
Rich and Dan throw shakas at the AV desk before worship.Food for Thought
Saturday, September 19, at 5:30 pm • Dave Hörmann’s Home
Food for Thought, a gathering of LCH friends, meets at the home of David Hörmann on Saturday, September 19, at 5:30 for conversation and a potluck dinner. David provides the main dish while the guests provide side dishes
If you would like to participate virtually, please contact Peter Flachsbart at pflachsbart@gmail.com to receive an invitation for the next Zoom meeting. If you wish to come in person, please RSVP, contact Marlise Tellander at marlisetellander@hotmail.com.
Writers’ Workshop
Monday, September 21, at 4:30 pm • Via Zoom Meeting
Writers’ Workshop will continue to meet via Zoom meeting. All are welcome! If you are new to our group and would like more information on how to participate, please contact Peter Flachsbart at pflachsbart@gmail.com. He will send you a Zoom link if you prefer to participate remotely. Mahalo!
Join Our Workday
Saturday, September 26 • 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Join the fun as we spruce up the LCH campus and Luther Place on Saturday, September 26. The focus will be on landscaping, but we will also tackle various odds and ends. The work will start at 8:00 am, lunch will be provided, and we’ll finish up around 1:00 pm. Those registered for David’s Hawaiian language class are welcome to take a break for class at 10:00. See you there!
Seeking Volunteers & Donations for One Pot, One Hope
Saturday, September 26, at 9:00 am • Maluhia Lutheran Church in Wai‘anae
The One Pot, One Hope ministry continues each month at Maluhia Lutheran Church in Wai‘anae. Please consider participating by joining the volunteers at the next meet-up.
You can also contribute by donating 5-lb. cans of chili, cartons of granola bars, or large jars of peanut butter or jelly; or you can support this outreach with funds either by check or via the LCH Donate page. (Be sure to designate donation for One Pot, One Hope.) Food items may be dropped off during coffee hour on Sundays or left at the office during open hours. Contact Billie Jean Reis with any questions. Mahalo for assisting with this mission to provide meals to our neighbors.
Mary Magdalene Society Potluck and Game Night
Saturday, September 26, at 6:00 pm • Isenberg Hall
Mary Magdalene Society will meet for our potluck and game night in the Isenberg Hall. We invite LGBTQI members and friends of LCH to prepare their favorite potluck dish and join in the festivities. As part of our commitment to mutual care, participants should RSVP in advance and be fully-vaccinated
An email will be sent on September 20 to those who are already on the Mary Magdalene mailing list, detailing the RSVP procedure. If you don’t receive your invitation, have questions, or want to be added to the mailing list, please contact Bill Potter, group facilitator, at bill.potter808@gmail.com.
Cindy, Peggy, and Alma outside Isenberg on Sunday.LutherFest! Save the Date
Saturday, October 24 • Hörmann Courtyard
Please mark your calendars for LutherFest on October 24. Pūpū hour will begin at 5:30, followed by dinner at 6:00 pm. Brats and a vegetarian alternative will be provided, and everyone should bring a side dish to complete the meal. Watch for further information in the October HeartBeat and the weekly eNews.
Preliminary Results of the Silver Tsunami Survey
The purpose of our Silver Tsunami program is to provide help and support for the kūpuna of our congregation. With the help of the Silver Tsunami Committee and others, Lily Zheng and I designed a survey questionnaire to identify the needs of our kūpuna. We launched the survey in early June and extended the deadline to complete the survey from June 30 to August 2. If you would like to participate in the survey, the online version is still live at this link.
Preliminary Results—So far, 38 people have completed the survey; 24 used the online version and 14 submitted the paper version. The questions of the two versions are identical. We are grateful for the 27 respondents who expressed a willingness to support the Silver Tsunami program, either as a mentor, volunteer, workshop speaker, or in other ways. The numbers below show the frequency of responses to questions with a fixed response format:
Respondents indicated that they need support or help with: loneliness/isolation (7), health/mobility (7), financial concerns (4), memory loss (6), lack of emotional support (2), access to health care (0), technology gap (13), fear of becoming a burden (7), loss of purpose (4), lack of transportation (5), preparing a will, trust, or medical directive (12), concerns about my spiritual health (4), and other (1).
Respondents said that the following applied to them:
- What are my options as a caregiver in terms of shared responsibilities with professionals and family members? (6)
- Should I “age in place” at home or in a facility that provides professional care? (18)
- How can I avoid caregiver abuse? (3)
- How can I avoid the neglect of my emotional, financial and physical needs? (8)
- How can I learn to keep my balance as I get older? (21)
- How can I fall “safely” if I lose my balance (21)
- How can I remain involved in the life of this congregation as I age? (13)
When asked how likely they would attend an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training session if offered at a convenient time at LCH, the responses were: Very likely (15); Somewhat likely (8); Not likely (11), and Not sure (4).
Asked if they would like someone from the church to visit you at home, responses were: Yes (2), No (28), Maybe (4), and No response (4).
Responses to whether they consider themselves senior citizens were: Yes (32) andNo (6).
Asked if they are members of the LCH, 29 responded Yes, 8 No, and 1 No response.
Upcoming Two-Day Retreat—The Episcopal Parish of St. Clement is offering a two-day event in October titled, “Embracing Grace: A Spirituality of Aging with Brother David Vryhof, ssje. This is a two-day retreat at 1515 Wilder Avenue on Friday evening October 9, and Saturday morning, October 10, 2026. Since seating is limited, please register with Eventbrite. The basic fee of $45 includes a light breakfast and lunch on Saturday. For more information and the link to register, please visit this link.
The LCH Silver Tsunami Committee is in the process of identifying other resources and people who can help us address the growing needs and concerns of our kūpuna. Please contact Peter Flachsbart at pflachsbart@gmail.com if you can offer help or information to support our Silver Tsunami program. Mahalo!
Peter Flachsbart on behalf of the Silver Tsunami Committee
August 20, 2026
Enjoying bubbles while momma shops at the Free Store.Help Feed Our Neighbors!
Join an IHS Sandwich-Making Team
Every month a team of LCH members and friends meets to prepare and deliver 375 sandwich lunch sacks for the Institute for Human Services (IHS). The task from start to finish takes about 1.5 hours. It’s a time for enjoyable fellowship and fast action as we serve our neighbors.
Please consider this invitation to join the ministry of feeding the houseless in Honolulu. IHS faces the demanding task of providing meals for hundreds of people each day. They depend on LCH, and other churches, to provide meals like sack lunches. The lunches not only feed people, but they also provide a breather for the kitchen staff at IHS. There are two teams, so the commitment is only for a few hours every other month.
If your schedule won’t accommodate a monthly commitment, please consider being an on-call backup. Let the LCH office know of your interest, or contact Carol Langner or any of the team members you may know. Sincere thanks to all.
Angel Network In-Gathering
LCH is not collecting donations for Angel Network Charities until further notice. However, Angel Network is accepting donations at the Calvary-by-the-Sea Lutheran Church location in east O‘ahu: 5339 Kalaniana‘ole Highway, Honolulu 96821.
For those who are able and interested in donating, they accept donations on Thursdays and Fridays, from 8:30 am to noon. They will only accept packaged, unopened dry goods (e.g. cereal, flour, sugar, pasta, etc.) and canned goods.
Angel Network requires that donating drivers identify themselves and remain in their vehicle. Volunteers will offload donation items from your vehicle with protective gloves. Over 2,500 individuals are served monthly through this program. Mahalo for your generosity and support.
HeartBeat Deadline
Tuesday, September 15, 9:00 am
Amanda L., Bob K., Carrie S., Chuck P. and Josie B., Don J., Elvi and Maria D., Greg G., John B., John H. and Mary W., Joseph L., LaVerne R., Maria S., Miriam and Miles S., Nan W., Peggy A., Rachel L. and family, the family and friends of Tess, and Tom R.
We recently renewed the Prayer Requests list and did not include names for which we did not have recent information. If you want prayers for a friend or loved one whose name was removed, we will gladly add them to the prayer list. Please complete a Prayer Request form or email the office with that person’s name and the prayer request.
