From the Organist's Chamber

On our visit to Paris, Normandy, and Chartres in May 2025, I wasn't surprised to learn that most churches have a layout that is long and narrow; sometimes they have side halls that make a church a bit wider, but the overall effect is narrow. This allows for the sound, say, from the organ, to distribute directly and evenly down to all parts of the church. You might be wondering then about the layout of La Casa. Our sanctuary may very well be wider than it is long, making the organ spatial concept somewhat unique, if not eccentric.

While the sound in most any church is always best right in the middle, the sound right by the La Casa organ console where I play, however, is seemingly unbalanced as I mostly hear the pipes of the swell chamber and not the rest of the front facade. One of the many reasons that, for recitals, I move the console to the center of the church is not just so that you can see me better, but also so that I can hear myself! Aside from that one deficit which is only noticeable to me, I think, the organ layout compensates by spreading the length of the room. And the rear organ--which I use to some extent the majority of the time--lightly adds to any sound that may have wandered to the sides of the sanctuary instead of the center. 

Dr. Jeremy Peterman

Organist and Handbell Director

I sensed the LORD draw me nearer this morning as I came to Him in prayer. With the Word open before me, I began to pen in my journal the things for which I am greatly concerned. I continued to note that which was making me anxious. I had awakened unusually early and felt restless. Shalom seemed far from me. And I paused~

I looked and saw the Word of the LORD which reminded me of the committed people in MY life who pray for ME. Many saints around me regularly cover me, and my life, with prayer. For a brief moment earlier, I had forgotten their steadfastness. For a moment, I felt alone in my angst.

But that is the beauty of God’s rescuing Truth poured out for us if we would simply come and drink from His wellspring of life.

And like those praying family and friends, I pray for many as the LORD leads. I am in God’s family, and I take that responsibility to heart. Others are invited to rest in the LORD because I pray. As Paul urged the church of Ephesus, “Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.” Ephesians 6:18

Pray at ALL times, with ALL perseverance, for ALL the saints…

My prayers make a difference. YOUR PRAYERS make a difference!

How ‘bout we be about the Master’s business of prayer, dear women of La Casa?

I am praying for you!

With love,

XOXOX

Paula Webb

Director of Women's Ministry

Origin Story – Where Our Story with God Begins

A new school year is here, and with it comes fresh notebooks, sharpened pencils, and brand new beginnings. There’s excitement in the air—new teachers, new friends, and new things to learn! It’s the perfect time to remember that the most important story we’ll ever be part of has already started-and it began with God.

Our August La Casa Kids series, “Origin Story,” is all about going back to the very beginning. Before school started, before you were born, before anything was created—God was there. Your story began in the heart of God.

Each week, we’ll discover more about how God created the world, how He made us on purpose and with a purpose, and how His love is woven into every page of our lives. Just like every superhero has an origin story, we have one too-and it’s rooted in God's love.

As we jump into the school year, let’s also jump into God’s Word with wide eyes and open hearts. Let’s explore where our story begins and celebrate that we belong to a God who knows us, loves us, and is with us every step of the way.

Staci Medina

Director of Children's Ministry



Have You Ever Heard of a Tree That Weeps?

There’s a tree that grows in dry, desert places. Its bark oozes sap (tears), really dripping down its twisted branches. Ancient people called it the weeping tree.

Psalm 84 speaks of the Valley of Baka, a name that means “weeping." It’s a valley of sorrow, one pilgrims would pass through on the way to worship. And yet, it says: “As they pass through the Valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs.” (Psalm 84:6)

Even in grief, God brings water. As followers of Jesus, we know what that water is: Living Water. Jesus said to the woman at the well: “Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst… it will become a spring of water welling up to eternal life." (John 4:14)

And again, in the temple courts: “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me… rivers of living water will flow from within them.” (John 7:37–38)

Maybe you’re in a valley right now.

Maybe your soul feels dry and stretched thin.

But Jesus meets you right there.

Not always with quick answers but, with presence. With water. With hope.

Like the weeping tree, your pain may run deep, but it isn’t wasted.

Even your tears can become part of the spring He’s forming.

Springs are coming.

Because Jesus is already there.

Blessings,



Ryan Callahan

Director of High School Ministry



During our July Love of Learning (LOL) meeting, Shannon Young led "Christmas in July" where we made Chrismons. A Chrismon is a Christian ornament, usually gold and white, that was first made by Frances Kipps Spencer at Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, Virginia in 1957. Shannon reminded us that it is not too early to prepare our hearts for Christmas now. In fact, if we start the process now of making ornaments or perhaps a new handmade tradition, we will not feel as rushed in November and December.

Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity. Make handmade ornaments for your tree or perhaps give them to friends and relatives as a gifts. If you would like to make Chrismons, call the church or email me and I will provide you the instructions and some patterns. Perhaps you would enjoy making a salt dough ornament, a craft stick nativity, or a Bible verse ornament. Take a favorite family photo and have it made into a puzzle that can be given to family as a fun way to relive a cherished memory. Knit or crochet an item for a loved one and pray for that person while you create the item. My mother made "stitches of love" sweaters for my girls when they were little to envelope them in a hug every time they wore them. Make a personalized advent calendar These are some ideas that can be as simple or as elaborate as you would like.

If you have a family tradition or an idea that you think others would enjoy learning about, let me know and I will pass that along in future senior spotlight articles. It is our collective responsibility to get the light of Jesus shining in the world.

Blessings,

Donna Bosley

Operations Director

Safe Vitamin D and Sun

Getting enough Vitamin D is important for bone health, mood, and immune function – and sunlight is a natural source. But too much sun exposure can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. So how do you get the benefits of sunlight while protecting your skin?

Aim for short, safe periods in the sun – about 10 – 15 minutes a few times a week – especially in the morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t as intense. This can help your body produce Vitamin D without a high risk of skin damage.

After that, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat when spending extended time outdoors. 

If you have limited sun exposure due to location, skin tone, or health reasons, talk to your healthcare provider about checking your Vitamin D levels. You may benefit from vitamin D-rich foods like salmon, fortified dairy and eggs.

With a mindful approach, you can enjoy the sun safely and support your overall health!

Blessings...

Jean Knowling, R.N.

Parish Nurse