Author: Daisy Olmstead

Christ the King in Natchitoches, Louisiana, held its third annual Cruisin’ with the King Car Show. We had a turnout of more than fifty cars and served free hot dogs, popcorn, chips, and water to more than 200 people.

This year’s car show winners:

• • • Participant’s Choice – 1967 Chevy Camaro
    • Pastor’s Choice – 1967 Porsche Carrera
    • Kid’s Choice – 1985 Chevy Silverado
    • People’s Choice – 1955 Chevy Bel Air

Great connections are being made via this car show. Besides being an anticipated yearly event, the show has developed an ongoing monthly cruise-in at local restaurants and drive-ins. This is an effort in fellowship and furthering relationships with other “gearheads,” to show off their cars, cruise together, and have a meal. The first cruise-in was held on Saturday, August 15, 2020, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Sonic in Natchitoches.

 

 

St. Mark’s in Elberta, AL, held an online VBS that began in late July that anyone can participate in at their convenience. After purchasing CPH’s starter kit that included digital materials, they used the Rainforest Explorers skits provided and added their own story, song, and craft video. A Thrivent Action Team grant was used to help purchase a song CD/DVD set for each family in the church, as well as the lesson leaflets and craft materials. The craft materials were all put together in a large Ziploc bag and given out one Sunday morning. Pastor Keith Ringers made a story video for each day that included a cartoon of the lesson. Congregational members Toby Moore and Danny Botts each made videos: Toby of a song for the day, and Danny on how to do the craft. The VBS link stayed up on the St. Mark’s website to be shared with anyone who will benefit from the Bible stories, skits and/or songs: https://www.saintmarkslutheranchurch.co/vbs-2020.

In spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bethlehem Lutheran Church’s Rev. Jeff Hesterman and 15 congregational members came together to help build a front porch for our member, Mrs. Mattie Davis. Pastor Jeff’s skills as a carpenter were very much appreciated. His prayer at the end of the day gave praise to a blessed and beautiful day. We all thank Thrivent Financial for making our Action Team Project a success.

 

Rev. Eric Klemme has recently recorded an album: “Gas Station Roses.” It is an Americana/Folk and Rockabilly album of original songs played on ukulele and guitar. Sale proceeds from now until Christ the King’s third annual car show, Cruising With the King, will go to support the free show and its community outreach purpose. This is the only show in the entire region that has not been canceled due to COVID-19.

“Gas Station Roses” is available for $9.99 through itunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/gas-station-roses/1516070739

 

What a wonderful blessing it was to have Pentecost Sunday worship as our first “in-person service” back in the beautiful sanctuary of St. John Lutheran Church in New Orleans! The “We’re Back!” worship included the excitement of welcoming twelve new members to the St. John family!!! It truly was a day to celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The city of New Orleans was in phase one of reopening and we filled our phase one capacity while implementing all CDC guidelines. Our windows and doors were open, which allowed for the music of a pianist, organist, and choir, along with the Word of God, to be heard outside on Canal Street.

It was a fantastic day of celebration on many levels. We held a brief reception outside, maintaining social distance, to visit with each other and especially recognize our new members.

We’re back and we’re loving it! Thank you, Jesus!

Like prayers rise up as incense, so does the smell of brisket from the homemade concrete smoker that has been behind the fellowship hall at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Biloxi, Mississippi, for many many years. Known for their culinary skills in everything from award-winning gumbo to whole pig roasts, these culinary servants never cease to appease even the most critical taste buds.

Sunday, May 17, 2020, was no exception as the congregation was welcomed back to the church, after two months of online worship only, with a meal during “Drive-By Brisket.” Including many first responders and medical personnel, the group of champion volunteers served more than one hundred plates of smoked brisket, beans, coleslaw, and bread to anyone who drove by. Many tasting connoisseurs commented that this was the best brisket they had ever had. While our prayers still rise up to the heavenly Father for the health and safety of everyone in the congregation and in the community, a rewarding meal and even safe opportunity to touch base was enjoyed by all. To God be the glory!