A Re-Retirement Report

It seems a bit soon to draw any conclusions. As I write it is less than three weeks since I officially concluded my interim pastoral role at St. Luke’s. But people are asking about my experience of “re-retirement” (despite the fact I – and the ELCA Board of Pensions – believe I never “un-retired.” I was just “helping out”).

Summer Worship

Summer Worship Schedule begins May 26 and runs to September 1. There is one service at 9:30 a.m. We also hope to have two outdoor services, weather permitting. Watch for more information about summer activities.

Pride in Park Ridge

Come and enjoy the Celebration for all ages — Pride in Park Ridge! June 20, 2024, 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the corner of Prospect & Cresent. There will be music, food and crafts. There will be an inflatable course and bungee run. Guest speakers at 7:00 p.m.. The event is sponsored by inclusive congregations, organizations, and volunteers. Come and enjoy the evening with your neighbors.

This is the Night: New Fire, Ancient Promises

On May 19th, we will light a fire in celebration of Pentecost, reminding us of the fire of the Holy Spirit that rested on the heads of the early believers and continues to light a fire of guidance and passion for each of us.

But more historically, fire is associated with the Easter Vigil service, which continues to grow in importance for our own practice in the Lutheran church. Again…a good opportunity for mystagogical reflection.

The Command of Grace

Dear church,

A couple of weeks ago I attended our Spirit Matters group for the first time, faithfully led by member Diane Barounis. It was a powerful experience – the space so carefully prepared to make us comfortable in the physical body, so that we might be able to go to another level, sharing as each felt comfortable about our experience with holy mystery – about the ways in which we have experienced and embraced and felt God, but often not able to “think our way to God.” (The Cloud of Unknowing)

Are You a Thrivent Member?

Are you a Thrivent member? Did you know that members may be eligible for thousands of dollars to contribute to special projects here at St. Luke’s?

There are two ways you can make a difference requesting Thrivent funds: Through Thrivent Action Teams Grants and Thrivent Choice Dollars.

Thrivent Action teams are simply a small group who wishes to put on a fundraiser, educational event or service activity. Thrivent provides up to $250 in seed money. Then you and your team can get busy bringing your project to life.

Spring Clean-Up

Don’t miss the opportunity to join “GO GREEN PARK RIDGE” the last Saturday of this month, April 27, 1:00-3:00 p.m. at AXEHEAD LAKE for this spring’s Forest & Woodland Clean-up. Please sign-up in the Atrium to register so the organizers will know how many people are participating from St. Luke’s. Wear long pants, long sleeved shirt or jacket, water-proof boots or shoes, work gloves and bring a reusable water bottle. Questions? Contact Carolynn Joesten or Laura Heinrich.

Spring Concert

On Sunday, May 5 at 4:30 p.m., St. Luke’s is pleased to host The Schaumburg Choral Artists, a new vocal ensemble providing a unique choral opportunity for advanced adult singers in the Chicago northwest suburbs and outlying communities.