From the Organist's Chamber

Humidity and our organ



On Sept. 21, 2025 during The Interlude segment, I was seen having just put water in the piano—in a device called the humidifier which helps provide a modicum of moisture in this dry climate. However, for the organ, additional atmospheric humidity is a different matter. On the rare occasion that it’s quite humid both outside and in, the wood of the organ tends to react. On the bottom of the swell chamber façade, for example, one insignificant piece of wood tends to warp a bit. It’s nothing alarming, but if I couldn’t already tell, that’s my visual cue that it’s humid!

One other time a few years ago, one of the keys on the top manual (keyboard) kept sticking and I couldn’t figure out why. Then I gave the screw a half turn to loosen the board in front and the key released; so once again, humidity had caused the wood to expand a bit. Moisture in the air is so interesting: I’ve often wondered if sound is louder when it’s humid (think snapping underwater in a pool)? Fun observation for Arizonans: you can’t hear the planes above on dry days, but you can hear them thunderously on humid days! If you have more to add on sound and humidity, send me an email! jpeterman@lacasadecristo.com

Dr. Jeremy Peterman

Organist and Handbell Director

It’s an interesting time to follow Jesus in 2025 and an even more interesting time to follow Jesus in the Phoenix Valley! Our hearts have been bombarded with much in our local region. With each conversation I return to the Truth that God remains on His throne, the throne of Heaven which has the final say. Truth reigns as God continues to speak and remind us through His Word. This Word satisfies anxious souls.

Thank Him!

Jesus had much to say in the 1st century world which still permeates seeking souls today. When we open the Word and spend time allowing Him to shape our minds and influence our behaviors, it’s like the Holy Spirit’s volume is turned up to lead us. We can hear as our dry souls are quenched with living water. In contrast to satiated, contented lives, ‘too much extra’ of whatever ‘extra is’ apart from God’s voice of Truth makes us brittle. Sharp. Jagged.

Excessive news consumption or busyness, commitment, or even too much serving beyond God’s call, leads us to become over-saturated with activity, yet dries us out, spiritually. This dulls the sound of the Spirit’s direction, leaving us thirsty!

In John 7:37-38, Jesus called out to the people attending the ‘last and greatest day of the festival’, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”  Why would Jesus invite worshipers on the last day of the Feast of the Tabernacle to come to Him in thirst? Wouldn’t they be quenched by this time?

Jesus knew then what He knows now~ Until the Holy Spirit lives within us, this world is merely a dry, parched, life-less land apart from His living water. He calls out and invites anyone and everyone still today to come to Him…

Are you thirsty?

Come!

With love, XO

Paula Webb

Director of Women's Ministry

This month in La Casa Kids, we’re heading into Wisdomland! Think about a roller coaster--up, down, twists, and turns. Life can feel the same way! The kings of Israel and Judah had some “highs” when they followed God, and some big “lows” when they didn’t.

We may not be leading a whole nation, but our choices still matter. The things we choose to do can make a difference for us and the people around us. The best part? God promises to give us wisdom when we ask Him (James 1:5).

Each week, our La Casa Kids will discover how God can help them make the wise choice: at home, at school, with friends and everywhere life takes them.

Kids: Get ready for an adventure full of learning, fun, and God’s wisdom guiding us through all the ups and downs.

Parent’s of La Casa Kids: We kick off this series on October 5th and YOU don’t want to miss it! On October 5 at 9:15am (no 10:30 this day) we have 'Bring Your Parents to La Casa Kids!' Parents, you’ll get to experience the fun alongside your kids as we kick off our Wisdomland series and we’ll also be sharing some exciting news that you won’t want to miss!

Staci Medina

Director of Children's Ministry



Ecclesiastes 3:1: "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."

As I write this I am currently in NYC and thinking about how it’s the beginning of a new season. I am admiring changes as I walk around and see the colorful foliage and look at the many choices of pumpkins; I cannot decide which to buy.

October 17th is National Pasta Day, which is probably a great time in Little Italy, a neighborhood in NY. However, I will be coming home to finalize plans for a special October weekend.

Confirmation Weekend here at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church is an opportunity for teenagers to publicly “confirm” their faith in Jesus Christ. 

I spend a little over two years getting to know the students who are now freshman in High School. As we go through the classes, trips, girl/guy nights and Sunday mornings, we grow our relationship with Jesus and each other, learning the importance of church community. Lifelong friendships and memories are made and teens experience the love of God and make personal commitments to follow Jesus for life!

I would like to personally invite the entire congregation to come out October 18/19 and support the teens and their special weekend as they run all four services. You are in for a treat when you listen to what confirmation means to them and how the program has helped them grow their faith.

As Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." And it’s time for us to celebrate the Confirmands!



Suzan Scudder

Director of Youth Ministry



WHAT IS BARRETT’S ESOPHAGUS?

A condition called Barrett’s esophagus affects about 5% of adults nationwide. It causes the lining of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach, to change. This raises the risk for getting cancer of the esophagus.

Doctors do not know yet what causes Barrett’s esophagus. But some people are at increased risk. The condition is more common in the United States than in other countries. People are more likely to have it if they are age 50 or older. Tobacco use raises the risk. So does excess weight around the waist.

Barrett’s esophagus itself has no symptoms. But many people also have gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Symptoms of GERD can include heartburn, chest pain, or nausea. Some people with GERD have difficulty swallowing. Doctors usually diagnose by endoscopy.

Barrett’s esophagus is often treated by using the same medications used to treat GERD. Other treatment options can include surgery.



If you have GERD, managing your symptoms can help reduce damage to the esophagus. Your doctor may recommend dietary or other lifestyle changes.

Blessings...

Jean Knowling, R.N.

Parish Nurse