The latest news for you

Let's Talk!

The Rev. Brent H. Thalacker, Pastor

Nativity Connect

June 23, 2021

This Week

We invite you to join us each Sunday morning as we gather in assembly. Service of the Word arrives in your email. We are together in worship.

Sunday, June 27, 9:00 AM – Holy Communion Indoors and Fellowship (outdoors). This will be Pastor Brent’s last service as our pastor. Please come celebrate his time with Nativity!

Down The Road

Thursday, July 1. Pastor Mitch Watney assumes pastoral responsibilities.

Sunday, July 4, 9:00 AM – Independence Day. Holy Communion. Pastor Mitch officiates his first service as our pastor.

Sunday, July 11, 9:00 AM – Holy Communion and Fellowship. Worship and Welcoming Reception for Pastor Mitch.

Wednesday, July 14, 10:30 AM Services for Paul Mickelson will be held at the Naval Academy Chapel followed by internment at the Naval Academy Columbarium.

Star Mission

SEEK to grow in God's Word

TELL the story of Jesus' love & forgiveness

ACT as God's Hands in the world

REACH OUT to welcome all

Bugs Bunny Got It Right

Well, here we are. Last Sunday 23 intrepid souls entered the sanctuary at Nativity Lutheran Church for the first indoor worship service since March 2020. Precautions in place, it was remarkably serene and comforting and, to tell the truth, was a good practice session for this Sunday’s big event. You could say we worked out the “bugs”—but that’s not why I mentioned that pesky wabbit in the title of this week’s Council Corner.

Bugs Bunny is my favorite philosopher (Foghorn Leghorn is #2). Always nonplussed, he waxes eloquently on topics from hunting (“For shame, doc. Hunting rabbits with an elephant gun. Why don’t you shoot yourself an elephant?”) to life itself (“I don’t ask questions, I just have fun.”). Here’s one of his best: “The way I run this thing you’d think I knew something about it.”

For the last nine years Nativity has been led by a passionate and colorful man who knew something about it. In all my years attending churches around the country I have never met a pastor like Brent Thalacker. Marj and I are relative newcomers to Nativity, but during our time here we have seen his vision, energy, and determination pull our church through the most extraordinary times and position us on the threshold of a very bright future. On a shoestring budget Pastor Brent forged new partnerships, shouldered the burden of keeping the lights on and the doors open, and challenged all of us to envision a future of positive Lutheran presence and ministry in Mount Vernon. He is a tireless advocate for Nativity. His ideas and dedication were endless and his sermons…well, as Bugs said: “Okay. Okay. I’m shuttin’ up. Why should I continue to keep yappin’ when I’m told to shut up? I’m not the kind that don’t know when to stop.”

All kidding aside, Brent will preside at his final service as our pastor this coming Sunday, June 27^th, at 9:00 am. Safety precautions (i.e., masks, ventilation fans, social distancing, sing quietly, etc) will remain in effect. Pastor Ron (formerly of Messiah) and Pastor Erin (currently on the synod staff) will be with us along with Pastors Andrew and Demetrius. We will hold an outdoor fellowship celebration after the service with light snacks and drinks. Please plan to join the congregation for this significant moment in our history.

This is a bittersweet time for Nativity. We are going to miss Pastor Brent, his intellect, wit, and commitment. We’re going to miss the powerful messages in his sermons, and we’re going to miss his familiar in-your-face manner that is always motivated by love. After 41 years serving God and preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, Brent and Sue deserve to enter chapter 2 of their lives. They will be joining many of Nativity’s members who have already made that transition and will soon discover that there is much to do in “retirement” (provided, of course, they heed Bugs’ advice and take “that left turn at Albuquerque”). Good news—the Thalackers aren’t going anywhere, so we will still remain friends and expect to see them often in the coming years.

In recognition of Pastor Brent’s service with Nativity, the council has authorized a $1000.00 gift for new golf clubs. We will not ask for donations for this congregational gift; however, if you want to donate, then please earmark your donation for the purpose Pastor Brent has requested. Your donation will help rejuvenate an old Nativity commitment to provide musical support for young people. Oh, and we’ll get the chance to see if those new clubs make a difference!

I know Pastor Brent will get the last word this coming Sunday, so I’ll just close with something Bugs would understand: “That’s all folks!”

See you Sunday,

Bob Kehler

Council President

AK & PB

I am hoping I have the capacity on Sunday to properly express my gratitude to friends and folks at Nativity for these past 9 years together...without too much of a meltdown in tears! So I thought I'd get at least this portion out of the way, and say thanks for your generous farewell gift. 'They' always said I had no problem beginning the object of my affection with 'GO', the challenge is whether I'd finish it with a 'D' or 'LF'; in this case the two merge. I so appreciate your underwriting a new set of golf clubs soon to grace my bag; this will be the first time in my career I will have a 'current' model, and PXG's are among the best on the market. Ordinarily I would never think of spending so much, but your generosity prompted me to take the plunge; they are being built for me even as I speak! When I told a buddy what I had ordered, he replied (in light of my talent) "That's like driving a Porsche to a hoedown!" But not only will they help improve my game (if it's not too late), they, given the actuarial table that says which direction my drives will go as I age, are probably my last set...for their cost they better be! And each time I use one, I will invariably think of Nativity; even if the shot is weak and wayward, I will smile!

Given that this is a remembrance that is somewhat self serving, Bob suggested I might also consider a 'legacy' request of and for Nativity that might stick around after I leave...and I didn't have to think about it but for a minute, so I'm directing any additional funds that might be gathered to be received in our Music Scholarship Fund. This is nothing new: a few years ago I had the pleasure of befriending Arvid Knutsen, a great guy and consummate musician, a professor of classic choral music at Northwestern, a renowned baritone whose operatic performances are legendary...at least in his hometown of Chicago. Upon his untimely death, his children asked if I could recommend a proper site for the memorials gathered. I suggested the beginnings of a fund at Nativity, they readily agreed, which might properly proffer a modest stipend to further develop music in the Mount Vernon area, starting with recipients offering to play at worship some Sunday mornings.

When our beloved Arlin Kottman passed, Sandi suggested funds gathered in his memory for the same purpose might be the perfect way to honor Arlin. I need not speak of his gift of music, you remember. And if you didn't know him, just ask Sandi about his professionalism on the horn and in directing...be prepared to sit for a bit when she does. It was a way not just to show off his excellence, also it was his primary mode of professing his faith. Since both bore the initials 'A.K.', they were bonded neatly together. Time and tide conspired, along with a pandemic, to leave the fund more or less untouched. Now is a great time to breath new life into the possibilities that would benefit both Nativity and aspiring, especially young musicians in our community, with an eye to engaging ministry with the middle school musicians down the block from us. I would be honored if you might contribute to that fund as another step to actualizing the program.

So I've expanded the title, adding 'PB' to the two 'AK's...those who would note that I play no instrument, can't sing a lick, or even read notes might find irony or amusement in this; I know I do! I don't add my initials in a vain attempt to be immortalized (OK, maybe a little bit), I want this because I think joining forces with two of the best would be a fitting way to strengthen our congregation at the work of worship and our community at playing the music we so much love at Nativity. I am thanking our own resident professional, Carrie, in advance for her willingness to help see this venture through, and all who might contribute. Simply drop a check marked "Music Fun(d)" in the offering or mail to our PO Box.

Most of all, this is a way to recall the goodness of God in creating the beauty of music and sharing it in a sacred performance setting through the gifts and graces of those who play and sing...which is near the top of my list of stuff I value. The presence of my initials proves that, like golf, you don't have to be adept at any endeavor to love it! And I love Arlin, Arvid, and you for contemplating a contribution!! PB

A Tribute

One might be rightfully reticent, on the cusp of retirement as I am, to single out and lift up individuals in a congregation for praise and thanks for their work, lest others feel slighted. Today I'm pleased to take that chance, because no one in their right mind would mind; to not do so would be a betrayal of my spirt and soul. So I shall speak about Marianne Wendel in the context she is most familiar with; as communications director for Nativity she is responsible for the written word.

While Marianne may have a compromised health portfolio, she has been uncompromising in her dedication to keeping Nativity connected and on the same page. When we closed, she opened the door to worship in our home; we never missed a Sunday in Service of the Word. And she faced her most grueling challenge this past year in having to talk with PB for hours a week...sometimes a day. Guess who did all the talking? Marianne ministered to me through her kindness, insight, patience, and her willingness to listen to me about stuff that far exceeded the task at hand. While her fingerprints are imbedded on her keyboard, they will also be found on the good things that are coming for Nativity. And she has done all that, for seven years with me for Jesus' sake, without ever receiving compensation save my thanks and Nativity's respect and admiration.

I say this now not just because it's time for me to leave; it is also that time for Marianne as well, as she steps away from her 'office' responsibilities. I am a bit jealous, she is fully retired now but gets to stay at Nativity! And both I and the folk of Nativity will benefit in the future, you from her continued discipleship here and I because of our friendship. Marianne will be taking on a new job after she returns from a long vacation with her daughter (and best friend) Christina...with Hannah now moving closer, Marianne will be working full time as Grandma!

I appreciate her willingness to help Pastor Mitch become oriented and be there for him for the next few weeks. Then he will settle into his mode of communicating the Gospel story with you. It probably won't be the 'old school' way you've known...honestly Marianne and I did what we did because we didn't know any better! But you can count on Mitch for more modern methodology, and even if it takes a bit of reconstruction and learning curve for both PM and our members, you can count on the same message of God's love each week no matter the medium.

So please join me in extending our heartfelt gratitude to God for the gift of Marianne. And I'm sure she would respond with the same line she's typed thousands of times: "You are welcome...at Nativity!" PB

Grandparents Pastor Brent and Sue Thalacker are excited to announce that they have a new granddaughter.

Parents Dan and Britt welcomed a new baby girl into the family.

Sloane Elizabeth

Born 6/22/21 at 2:57 pm

6 lbs 11 ozs

All are doing well.

Following worship service on June 27th, we will host a small Fellowship to celebrate Pastor Brent’s retirement. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments (finger-foods only) will be served on the lawn. If you would like to contribute, please contact Megan Armenti (msarmenti@gmail.com).

Synod Assembly Recap

In case you missed the inspirational worship, speakers and content from the 2021 Synod Assembly, below is link to the recap of all the happenings from the assembly.

All presentations, worship videos and speakers can be viewed on our YouTube page.

Synod Assembly Recap

Racial Justice Proposal Approved by Synod Council

The Metro DC Synod Council issued a letter on October 7, 2020 ,that called on the synod and its congregations to dismantle white supremacy within the church and society-at-large. Moreover, the letter called on the synod to more fully support and embody anti-racism towards Black, Indigenous, and People of Color as a prophetic and central value in its witness of the Gospel.

A Racial Justice Planning Team was formed and held its first meeting on February 23, 2021. The team includes Bishop Ortiz, Vice President Droney, Sheena Foster, Jennifer Slagle Peck, the Rev. Ben Hogue, the Rev. David Trott, and Aaron Zeiler who are members of the synod council and other synod teams, committees, and tables. The team also consulted with the Rev. Carmelo Santos from the churchwide organization. The team met on March 8, April 6, and May 3, 2021, and offered the proposal below to the synod council. The synod council unanimously affirmed this plan at its meeting on May 15, 2021, and the synod is moving forward with implementation.

Feel Good Friday

ELC Teacher Spotlight, Juneteenth Volunteering & Summer Camp Fun

"All Children Deserve a Great Start in Life" As the Early Learning Center finishes it's final preparations for it's grand re-opening on July 1st, Director Torria Baker and her team of amazing teachers spent some time sharing what they love most about the Early Learning Center. Click here to watch the video!

Gearing up for Summer Camp: School is officially out which means that summer camp season is almost here! This week we welcomed our amazing Summer Camp Counselors to the Sacramento Neighborhood Center for training, as well as some fun team-building exercises!

Summer Camp at Sacramento Neighborhood Center kicks off next week so be sure to check out our social media for pictures of all the summer fun!

Click Here to Donate to "Be The One"!

Donate to Help Families Impacted by COVID-19

www.unitedcommunity.org

Last Word

If you thought I'd missed my last chance column, no chance. I wrote under "Last Word" for many years and brought up the rear; we moved it to the beginning when pandemic appeared to take away all final say and renamed this effort "First Take". For Marianne it was but the click of a few keys, for me it was the pressure of being a headliner! Today, in my last of some 300 of these for our weekly Connect, we decided to tuck it back at tail end and restore its former moniker. I don't know as whether I've ever held the last word on anything till now; it seems appropriate to stick this farewell as a finale to our tale.

Since "Conan" is leaving the airwaves the same week as I'm retiring I thought I might share, like he is, clips or highlights of past posts and title it "Best of Brent"...the only problem is we'd have to run it for the next 300 some weeks (shameful self approbation). Instead, I'll make a confession and share a secret.

On rare occasions over the past years you might have overheard me whining about my commute, sometimes in my car a couple hours a day. I only did that because I could think of nothing else to complain about as Nativity's pastor; I'll reveal that I really liked the drive! I have commercial free music, hands free cell service (time flies when I'm doing all the talking), and 3 Ross stores on my various routes! Once every few weeks, I'd stop to shop for a new golf shirt or a pair of past season's shoes. I have two cardinal rules: the purchase has to come from the 'clearance' section, and it has to happen on a Tuesday to get the additional senior discount!

I also enjoy browsing their 'fine arts' department; some of what's appeared as props on a Sunday came from Ross on a Tuesday...I'm thinking of the 'gem' of a red heart that Anthony is holding until next Christmas Eve. And these stores have decent wall hangings, some might be a bit 'schlocky', but the two pictured above have taught me to keep searching; they are favorites of mine that have graced our church office for a few years... side by each, they pretty much cover the extent of my 'practical' theology. And they are remarkable for their brevity; you know how devoted I am to that!

In all the various topics we've explored, especially those this year past, I hope you have heard here the constant beat of love. Just to reaffirm, this is my time to say "I love you" to all of Nativity and to you, dear reader. And I encourage you to keep loving: start with one, and then another, and on and on it goes. And not just the folks who like you or are like you...you are good at loving 'an other', offering generosity and hospitality to neighbor and stranger alike.

I see these signs as twins, a set...one belongs with the other. Love isn't feeling or disposition, certainly at times far from easy. Love is God's greatest gift, it is not conditional on our hard work, or at least Jesus has already done the heavy lifting. But we can and should work hard in our endeavors, offering best efforts in unwrapping and sharing that present in the present. Now I see some raised brows or rolling eyes (siblings especially) at my touting working hard, so at least allow me to encourage you to take the time to work into the issues ahead, and work through or around them. Work together and you will be transformed from a work in progress to a work of art.

Having just celebrated Father's Day, I'll close by tipping my cap to my own. Harold told me, "Find yourself something to do that you love, and you'll never work a day in your life." My dad worked hard to find meaning in his shift work at the paper mill in order for me to have that chance. I am happy to finally report that for once I did what he told me; he got his wish. You probably won't like hearing this, but if I'd known then what I know now, having shared so much love with you and had enough fun doing it, I would have worked for nothing! These next couple of years will be your way of telling me I didn't.

Down the road I pray our paths will cross again, and we'll both be still working hard at hardly working!

Pastor Brent,

P.S. The comma each week after my name wasn't a typo, rather a shortened version of my full name: Brent, baptized child of God.

New Address

As a reminder, please use the new PO Box for donations, or bring your donation to church on Sunday and deposit it in the familiar collection plate (same plate-different location).

If you need it, here is the PO Box info:

Nativity Lutheran Church

PO Box 8083

Alexandria, VA 22306-9998

ELCA

Below are the links to our Church websites where you will find up to date info about what is being done by and for Lutherans across our nation and the world.

Quick Links

ELCA.org

metrodcelca.org