SHUMC garden party at the Leininger home in St Helena, Sunday October 2, 2022

But worship was only part one of Sunday’s festivities. Next was the church picnic and barbeque at Kevin and Dawn Leininger’s home from noon to three. As you can see from the picture above, it was a wonderful time, with delicious food, beverage, a lovely setting in their back yard and fellowship the like of which we have not seen in a long time. With multiple dishes brought to share, and Dawn’s special chicken and sausage, everyone dined well and got to catch up with many other church members and associates. In particular, it was a joy to celebrate and honor our Livestream Team, who work tirelessly each week to make sure that worship is broadcast on our YouTube channel, allowing many outside the sanctuary to take part at a distance. Thanks to Maureen, Ali, Norm, Ron, David, and Karl, all of whom have given many hours of time and care to ensure that virtual worship is a part of who we are and what we share as a church. And thanks to everyone for a great party, especially Kevin and Dawn!

Caroline and I are away celebrating our 40^th anniversary of marriage in Inverness on Tomales Bay this week and much of next week too. I will return to church on Thursday October 13^th in time for Bible Study and be back at worship on Sunday the 16^th. In my absence, Pastor Marylee Sheffer of Napa UMC will be available for emergencies. Please call her cell at 925.789.7794 as needed. Secretary Lesa Ward will be in the office on Tuesday and Wednesday of each week from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. On Sunday, October 9, Keith Calara will be in the pulpit, Keith and I have known each other for a number of years, and he is a good and faithful lay leader. 

The 2023 Stewardship Campaign letters and pledge cards will be mailed next week to each of you. Please look them over and return your 2023 pledge soon but no later than Sunday November 20^th, the date of our stewardship celebration during Fellowship time after worship. The Stewardship Campaign is how we raise funds for the general budget next year, all the basics like payroll, utilities, maintenance and more. Your giving is a blessing for this church, and it is always deeply appreciated!

The renewal of the church Belltower continues with patching, painting and more taking place this week. Keep an eye out when you come by and look for signs of this blessed new vitality! Roofers will be arriving on Monday October 17^th to take care and shingle the Sanctuary and Asa White room too. So much to be grateful for this year, thanks to your generosity and care for our church!

St Helena Harvest Festival- Saturday October 15, from 10 a.m. to noon, the church will be giving out donuts and coffee to all who come. Please join us if you can!

Wednesday, October 19 is the next Film Night at SHUMC. Please let me know if you plan to attend! We will be showing the sci-fi classic from Steven Spielberg, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, (Columbia, 1977). Set in the everyday world of small town, western United States, it tells the story of a few people, seemingly chosen, to experience contact with beings from other planets or worlds. Not scary, but rather thoughtful and mysterious, with an inspiring climax, it is highly recommended. All are welcome and please bring your dinner and something to share. Please let Lesa or I know if you plan to attend!



All Saints & Hallows Salon- Thursday, October 27, 7 p.m. featuring seasonal poetry with Jeffrey McFarland-Johnson cello and Pastor Burke. Special treats and wine served afterwards, $15 donation towards the SHUMC Building Fund.

Blessings to you all and see you soon,

Burke