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WELCOME TO OUR

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Vol. 31 July 31, 2024

View Newsletter as Webpage

Bible Study John 6:24-35

24 So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. 25 When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” 26 Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate your fill of the loaves. 27 Do not work for the food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.” 28 Then they said to him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” 30 So they said to him, “What sign are you going to give us, then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ ” 32 Then Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” 35 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.


Questions:

~Thousands of people had just been fed with a couple fish and a few loaves but seemed to want to have another sign of who Jesus was. Do you also seek more signs? Why?


~Some of the people wanted to know what they should do to perform the works of God (vs. 28). Do you feel that you need something special to meet God's expectations? If so, why?


~What do we want "the bread of life" to do for us?


~What hunger and thirst do you want to subside?


Blessings,

Pastor Ann

Bulletins

August 4

August 11

August 18

August 25

September 1

This past Sunday's service in case you missed it!

We had tech difficulties and were not able to stream July 28

For those unaware, if you click on "view as webpage" it will show you ALL the content. This is useful because some email companies will cut the email short and you might miss some of the content.

Budget Change Proposal


As stated in the newsletter from early July, New Day’s Church Council formally created a nonexempt, part-time, hourly employee position to provide administrative and technology support. 

 

The congregational meeting on August 11 is the opportunity for the congregation to affirm this decision in two steps.

  1. Approve the creation of this new position and;
  2. Approve the modification of the Church 2024 budget to account for the associated cost.


The new position combines the functions and responsibilities of the previous Administrative Support and Technology Support positions under a single Administrative Title. This position will continue to be staffed by Theresa Jones.

 

The new part-time position will pay $15.00 per hour for up to 15 hours per week. The projected cost for salary and associated employer expenses for the balance of 2024 is $5,813.10. The remaining budget for the current positions for the same period is $3,000. The difference of $2,813.10 needs to be approved and added to the budget for 2024.

 

Please address any questions to Steve Duff


Since this position will impact Church expenses, a congregational meeting will be held August 11 at 10:30 am to confirm the Council’s decision and address any questions. This meeting will be one with a vote. Anyone can attend, but you must be a voting member to be able to vote. If you are unsure of your status please speak with Pastor Ann or Steve Duff.

Our synod is made up of several clusters (churches fairly local to one another). Our cluster is Snake River Cluster and includes: Our Saviors in Twin Falls, St. Johns in American Falls, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Pocatello, Emanuel in Blackfoot, Bethel Lutheran in Firth, New Day in Idaho Falls, Shepherd of the Mountains in Jackson, Wyoming, and Star Valley United Church in Thayne, Wyoming. Each year these churches get together and have a picnic. This year we are hosting. Bring whatever your heart desires to the picnic! We will use the parish hall to setup but will plan to eat outside.

  • BRING YOUR CHAIR!
  • Since we are hosting, and we are outside, we need a few volunteers to help setup by moving the tables outdoors.
  • Mary Johnson will be our point person for the kitchen to make sure things are left as they should be.

Please contact Theresa if you can help!

What Month is it?

Let's celebrate and honor the strength, resilience, and unique abilities of individuals with disabilities this month! Disability Pride Month is a time to recognize the importance of inclusion, diversity, and acceptance in our communities. Let's come together to support and empower individuals with disabilities, and work towards creating a more inclusive and accessible world for all. Join us in spreading awareness, promoting equality, and celebrating the beauty of diversity during this special month!

Birthdays

8-5 Cherie Stevens

Anniversaries

8-2 Allan & Carol Christensen

8-20 Joel & Joy Hubbell

Thank you to those who have signed up! You made this easy!

FELLOWSHIP SIGN-UPS


People IN CHARGE Signups:

Leftovers of any kind, including milk, cheese and butter are not to be left in the refrigerator. The counters and serving areas need to be sanitized, and nothing left in the draining rack. If you brought it, take it home with you, please!

August 4th Joy Hubbell

August 11th CONGREGATIONAL MEETING We ask that everyone help with setup and cleanup so we can start on time and leave on time.

August 18th Nancy & Marlene Mahoney-Martian

August 25th

September 1

September 8

September 15

September 22

September 29


People to bring treats:

August 4th Joy Hubbell

August 11th Nancy Mahoney, Julie Tullis

August 18th Nancy & Marlene Mahoney-Martian

August 25th

September 1

September 8

September 15

September 22

September 29

You can bring egg cartons to church and we will make sure they get them.

We are absolutely thrilled and beyond grateful to give a shoutout to Jill Rohrbaugh, the daughter of Linda Reuter, for her incredibly generous contribution of a stunning new chalice and paten set to our beloved New Day Lutheran Church. This thoughtful gesture will undoubtedly elevate our worship services and further strengthen the sense of community within our congregation. We cannot express enough how much we appreciate your dedication to enriching our church experience. It is through the kindness and generosity of people like you that we are able to create a warm and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We are so excited to come together as a community and cherish these meaningful gestures that continue to uplift our church. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Merlene Brockway's dedication to crafting beautiful altar cloths has not gone unnoticed. We are grateful for her attention to detail, ensuring that each cloth is detailed on the sides and a color scheme appropriate for the season. Her efforts and the sharing of her gifts have contributed to our worship experience. We take pride in our diverse and inclusive community, and Merlene's work reflects that commitment to acceptance and love. We encourage all members to engage with our church and its various activities and ministries, which provide opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. If you are seeking a welcoming and inclusive community, we invite you to join us and become part of our family.

Luther Heights Intergenerational Retreat


At Luther Heights Bible Camp, we had an absolute blast! From tie-dye to exhilarating horseback riding adventures, the fun never stopped. We gathered for worship, shared in faith discussions led by Pastor Ann, several did some biking and hiking, and Aaron Klinkel even had a thrilling rafting trip. The joy of carpet ball games and sports on the court brought everyone together, creating unforgettable memories of togetherness and community. It's moments like these that make Luther Heights Bible Camp a place where laughter, faith, and friendship intertwine seamlessly.


See our Facebook page for more pictures!

Meetings/Updates

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Council

  • NO JULY MEETING! Sunday August 18 at 10:30am upstairs conference room.
  • All congregants are welcome to attend council meetings.
  • If you would like to request time to address the council please contact Merlene Brockway at (208) 317-3757 or email president@newdaylutheran.org


Thrivent Choice Dollars & Action Grants

  • Do you have Thrivent Choice Dollars that need to be allocated? This is your friendly reminder that New Day would appreciate your generosity if you choose us as your recipient.
  • Are you able to help New Day fund projects through an Action Grant? Pastor Ann can help you with ideas or assist you in applying. 


Health and Safety Committee

  • If you would like to be CPR/first aid/AED trained please contact us at church@newdaylutheran.org


Worship Committee

  • Pastor Ann, Linda Reuter, Nancy Duff, Mary Johnson, Dianne Yonk, Vicki Krogstrand, Paulette Kirsch
  • If you want to help with worship setup, tear down, reading, or communion contact one of the people above.

Small Groups

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Monday Coffee

Mondays 10am Greenhouse Coffee

Bible Study

Mondays 6pm Church Columbarium Narthex

Beer Group

Tuesdays 3pm Idaho Brewery Idaho Brewing Company

Book Club

1st Wednesday each month 4pm Church Parish Hall

Thursday Coffee

Thursdays 10am Greenhouse Coffee

Dog Gone Fun Day

1st Friday each month 4pm Idaho Falls Dog Park if 50°+ and no precipitation. We will meet at the center pen.

Prayer Requests


EMAIL Cherie for prayer requests and to be added to the list:

wandc3@msn.com

OUR VISION: Passion for God, Compassion for All means we strive to be a loving, Christian community who are excited and passionate about sharing the love and grace of Jesus Christ with everyone. Regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religious background or health, you are welcome here!


OUR MISSION: Love Christ and others by accepting and welcoming all in worship, fellowship, Bible study, and community outreach while celebrating our gifts and talents. Jesus said, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another…” John 13:34.

For us it’s simple – Jesus loved all people and so we want to love all people.


WELCOME, INCLUSION, CELEBRATION, AND ADVOCACY STATEMENT FOR NEW DAY LUTHERAN CHURCH (ELCA)

Because we are loved by God, New Day Lutheran Church is a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) congregation that welcomes all people. We invite you to join us in our commitment to support and advocate for:

People of every color, culture, and ethnic background

People of every gender identity and sexual orientation

People of all mental and physical abilities

People who are single, widowed, divorced, separated, partnered, blessed or married

People of all ages, political persuasions, levels of education

People of every economic circumstance or social status

People of any religious affiliation or none

People of all family configurations

People who speak languages other than English

People who have felt excluded or marginalized

We commit ourselves to embracing the work of anti-racism, social and economic justice, and environmental care.

We encourage all people to participate in the sacraments and all aspects of the life of our church

NWIMS (Northwest Intermountain Synod)

Dwelling in the Word

Dear People of the Northwest Intermountain Synod,


When I meet with a group of people in the NWIM Synod—whether it is a group of deacons and pastors, a council, call committee, or any other group—more often than not I start that meeting with a spiritual practice called “Dwelling in the Word.” This exercise, which includes prayer, hearing a scripture passage read twice, sharing curiosities and where attentions lie, and wondering together what God might be up to has a way grounding whatever conversation comes next in God’s tender mercy.


What’s interesting is that I have used this practice with numerous different scripture passages...and the particular passage doesn’t seem to greatly effect the value of the practice one way or another. Upon reflection I have come to think the benefit of Dwelling in the Word is due to four key aspects:

  1.  First and foremost, Dwelling “works” because I trust God is at work in the world and in our lives. In short, this practice is efficacious only in and through God’s action.
  2. Dwelling in the Word is bookended with prayer. One of my seminary professors once said something to the effect that of course God is working in the world with or without our prayer, but one way to look at prayer is that it opens up the door a bit wider so that God has more room to work. Ever since, I’ve appreciated that image of prayer. So Dwelling is efficacious because God is at work, and that prayer opens the door even a bit wider.
  3. Listening. You’ll note that the practice of listening is a central piece to Dwelling in the Word. There is listening to scripture. There is listening to one another. And there is the wondering together—the listening together—about what God might be saying.
  4. God’s Word. This practice invites us to sit with a passage from the Bible, the Word of God. I am reminded of Isaiah 55:10-11 

     10For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,

   and do not return there until they have watered the earth,

making it bring forth and sprout,

   giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,

11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;

   it shall not return to me empty,

but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,

   and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

God’s Word is going to do what its going to do…and we do well when we dwell on any part of that Word of God.


The step-by-step process that I more or less follow is attached to this article. I commend this practice to you as we all seek to discern where God’s Spirit is leading us in these days. OPEN HERE


Blessed Summer,


Pastor Phil Misner

Civic Life and Faith Hearing


The Northwest Intermountain Synod-ELCA will have a hearing on Zoom the evening of Sunday, September 15, 2024. More details will be coming soon.


The ELCA is developing a social statement on civic life and faith, the relationship of church and state, and related matters, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.


Social statements are the ELCA’s primary documents to address significant social issues. They are intended to aid reflection, shape conscience and set forth the ELCA’s teaching and policy on the major social issues and questions of contemporary life. Social statements are developed by task forces, using an established process of study and widespread participation across the church to guide theological and moral deliberation.


At this time the task force encourages you to study and give feedback on a draft version of the social statement. You can participate by filling out a survey, found here, or by participating in a hearing in your synod, September 15 on Zoom for the NWIM Synod! Hearings are public gatherings where participants share their specific affirmations or concerns about a draft statement. The feedback period will be open until Sept. 30, 2024.


To download a copy of the draft social statement, click here. We are unable to offer printed versions at this time.


To download the draft in Spanish, please click here. You can find the online version of the Spanish survey here and a printable version here.


In 2023, the task force put out a six-session study for public feedback. Thank you to everyone who participated and sent input. Click here to read the report on the analysis of that public feedback, which informed the draft social statement and will continue to inform the task force's work. THANK YOU to all congregations and ministry sites that used the study.


To learn more about the task force members, click here.


Read a detailed timeline of the task force’s work.



Looking for an Idaho Disaster Relief Volunteer Liaison for Our Synod


The Northwest Intermountain Synod is looking for a volunteer to serve as a liaison between our synod, Lutheran Disaster Response, and the Idaho VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.) When a disaster occurs in Idaho, this volunteer would participate in the Idaho VOAD to help bring the resources that Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) has to offer, in this case, money. (Other participating organizations such as the Red Cross bring a variety of skills and resources.) The volunteer would coordinate with our synod Director of Evangelical Mission, who is responsible for applying for LDR funding.


The Idaho VOAD is a group of organizations that coordinates relief and recovery efforts together to avoid duplication of efforts and to identify and meet the most important needs. The Idaho VOAD includes the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Team Rubicon, as well as other faith-based organizations. https://www.idvoad.org/


Most Important Qualifications for our Idaho VOAD volunteer include:

  • Good communicator and team player
  • Calm demeanor
  • Able to step up and be available (mostly by phone or email) when a disaster occurs
  • Willingness to bring one’s various skills and abilities to the table


The Time Commitment

  • The Idaho VOAD meets virtually every two months.
  • Lutheran Disaster Response has virtual quarterly meetings which are called "The Community of Presence." 1 hour commitment.
  • Lutheran Disaster Response has an in-person annual gathering which is lots of fun and includes spiritual development.
  • The real wild card is how much time is required for an event, times multiple events. Ray Shjerven, our Washington State VOAD volunteer, used the fire in Medical Lake as an example. He was on the phone about 1 hour per day for about 6 days with Pastor Carol Yeager, working to identify unmet needs. Pastor Yeager identified the need for gift cards to help those who lost homes buy basics like clothing and fuel. Ray had Zoom meetings with synod staff. He coordinated with the synod to submit a larger request to LDR. He reported LDR efforts to the VOAD to avoid duplication. The Idaho VOAD administrator, Jeremy Maxand, estimates that there are as few as 3 disaster incidents in Idaho each year, and as many as 8. Jeremy says, “If people are looking for a lot of excitement, Idaho is not the place.”
  • Many events have a long-term recovery committee. Depending on the VOAD volunteer’s abilities, they may or may not serve on that committee. Lutheran Disaster Relief prides itself in providing support for the longer term recovery effort.


Training and Mentoring

  • Ray Shjerven, our Washington State VOAD volunteer, is willing to help a new Idaho volunteer get up to speed, including serving side-by-side to help with the first disaster incidents in Idaho.
  • Likewise, Jeremy Maxand, the Idaho VOAD Administrator, is eager to have our involvement and will help a new person learn the ropes.
  • Some virtual trainings are offered, such as learning more about the Incident Command System (ICS).
  • There is a Mountain West VOAD conference every year. It will be in Boise next year.
  • There is also a national VOAD conference. The next one is in Louisville, KY.
  • Both FEMA and the states offer training.
  • Others on the VOAD will be willing to help mentor a new person.
  • The synod will assist with travel expenses.

Please let us know if you are interested or would like to learn more by contacting Bishop Meggan Manlove at bishopmeggan.manlove@nwimsynod.org. Also please share this information if you know an Idaho ELCA Lutheran that might be a good fit.

Stewardship Kaleidoscope

in Portland, Oregon

September 23-25


Registration is open!


Stewardship Kaleidoscope is an annual conference offering excellent plenary speakers, informative workshop leaders, provocative worship experiences, and incredible networking opportunities for all passionate about stewardship and generosity. Drawing leaders from across the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA), the Lutheran Church (ELCA), and other ecumenical partners, Stewardship Kaleidoscope is designed to help participants explore stewardship in its many colorful dimensions!


Attend IN PERSON or VIRTUALLY.


Scholarships and grants available to help cover costs. READ MORE...


Women of the ELCA NWIM Synodical

 Women's Organization

Mark Your Calendars!

September 28, 2024

9:00AM - 4:30PM

Unfinished Women

What's next?


A one day retreat for all women

to be held at

Redeemer Lutheran Church

2920 W Cassia

Boise, ID


Luther Heights Bible Camp

We are an owner of Luther Heights Bible Camp - so it is important we are invested in the things they are up to! If you need more info on them, call 208-886-7657 or email them at info@lutherheights.org 2024 Schedule

Do you want to go to a retreat but don't want to drive? Let us know! There are carpool options available!

RENT-A-CABIN

Looking for a quick getaway or making Labor Day Weekend plans? Select cabins are available for rental July through September. Reservations must be made two weeks in advance by someone 18+.

Cost: Two night stay: $200 for cabin, including food + $75/each additional person; or $150 for a cabin, food not included + $30/each additional person. 5 years old and under are free. Cabins can sleep up to 12 (6 bottom bunks).

Dates: Contact info@lutherheights.org and/or associate@lutherheights.org to request dates and make reservations.

FAITH LEADERS RETREAT

Leading Beyond Compassion Fatigue and Burnout

This retreat is a unique opportunity for faith leaders of a variety of titles to gather, learn, rest, and connect with one another. Along with a focus on compassion fatigue and burnout, this retreat will also offer break-out sessions for resource sharing, visioning together, and collaboration. Our workshop leader is Cara Hollingsworth, PMHNP.

Cara Hollingsworth is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is also a nature lover, dog mom, bibliophile, proud Auntie, wife to an incredible dude, wayfarer and perpetual student. Health Care is a second career for Cara, she previously worked in Higher Education, specializing in student involvement and student leadership development. She graduated from Regis University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2015 and quickly felt the call to become a Nurse Practitioner, specializing in Psychiatry. She graduated from Gonzaga University in 2020 with her Master’s of Science in Nursing and currently practices at St Luke’s Behavioral Health Clinic, in Nampa, Idaho and at High Point Counseling in Rock Springs, Wyoming. She is currently working towards her Doctor of Nursing Practice and anticipates completing this in spring of 2025 (Woo Hoo!).

Cost: $145

Dates: August 4-6

SEPTEMBER IN THE SAWTOOTHS

Whether you come up to explore the Sawtooths with a partner or enjoy some time on your own, Luther Heights will provide you with the tools you need to make this time in the mountains exactly what you need so that you return home rested and renewed.

Schedule yoga and massage at Redfish Riverside Inn (Stanley), or enjoy mindfulness and meditation workshops at LHBC with an additional cost.

Cost: $145

Dates: September 6-8


News From St. Luke's

Click the logo to see news from St. Luke's not listed here

Contact Us
  • You can use the button below to give online!
  • You can also mail a check made out to New Day Lutheran to:

New Day Lutheran Church

2184 Channing Way #474

Idaho Falls, ID 83404


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