A message from Pastor Tony
  I grew up in the upper Midwest where we celebrated our national holidays with pride as a community. I will share some of my memories of the traditional Independence Day celebration in my sermon on Sunday, but today I want to talk about a strange flag I first saw here in Arizona when I visited a friend years ago and now I see it flying in many places in our community.

It is a strange little flag with a yellow background and the image of an angry rattlesnake on it. Below the image is the phrase, “Don’t tread on me.” As a theologian I first thought of Jesus’ words to the seventy disciples he sent out as written in Luke stating, “I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over the power of the enemy; and nothing will hurt you.“ (Luke 10:19) 

Not sure if this flag had anything to do with Jesus, I did some research. I found this flag to be called the Gadsden flag, named after a military officer who designed it for the American Revolution in 1775. It still has connections with today’s Navy. It is supposed to be representative of the promising republic. Today people fly this flag as an expression of individual rights and protections from the government… which is different than its origins as a united nation fighting against the British.

Through the years, people have used this flag in hope that our government of elected people would build a better nation of good public education, social and economic mobility, and personal freedoms. Then there is our Christian faith and the freedom we receive from Christ.  Jesus warns us in the gospels that we reap what we sow. Revolutions sown in violence usually end in violent wars and lots of death. One way to change the world around us is first to change the world within us.

The view we live in today is a global one. This is forcing us to re-evaluate our country’s basic premises and the world is searching for global justice that goes well beyond our own basic personal rights. Our work and witness as Christians even call us to a new time… I call it the Grace Revolution. Yes, we need to hear Jesus’ words, “I have given you authority to tread on snakes, and over all the power of the enemy.” Think about that. It kind of sounds like we are the “70” disciples. Every time we gather and approach the Lord’s Supper we recommit to God’s revolution. 

The kingdom of God does not serve itself but serves others and it grows stronger by the love given in Jesus Christ. Jesus sowed a revolution not in others’ blood, but in his own, and for our sake. He sent out the 70 not with guns or swords, not even with a purse, bag, or sandals. Jesus chooses the path of relationship over the path of structural power to change the world around him.

So, on this Independence Day in our country, let us also celebrate our independence from the bondage of guilt, sin, fear, and death; an independence won over 2,000 years ago.  Let us celebrate and discover the depths of an independence that will last for all of eternity.

The celebration of our nation’s birthday is really a celebration of freedom. We celebrate the precious gift of freedom we have because of the price others paid. You see, we must remember that freedom is not free. Freedom is very expensive. It has cost some people everything, including their lives.
Today as we live in security and comfort, we do so because thousands of young men and women have given their lives and shed their blood on foreign soil. They died in forsaken places with names not remembered so that we could experience the joy and responsibility of freedom…. freedom to be a Christian too. 

AMEN ! 


Pastor Tony

‌
The Generosity Project is an expression of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s (ELCA) Macedonia Project, with initial funding provided by Thrivent Financial Services. The purpose of the Macedonia Project is to grow faithful steward leaders.

Congregations across the ELCA that participated in a pilot for The Generosity Project reported that the experience changed the way they viewed and approached stewardship, opening up new and creative conversations between all generations. The hoped for outcome is for congregations to address the role and meaning of money in daily life, and to begin to equip all ages and households for the faith practice of generosity— year-round. Now, we at Spirit of Hope have an opportunity to participate in this project too!
This project begins with a congregational survey. We are asking each family unit participate in this survey by copying the link below and pasting it into your browser. Please complete the survey and it will then be sent directly to the greater church for statistics. Thank you in advance for helping us begin this project!

           htt ps://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2020CGC30439

 In the weeks and months ahead, we will be planning specific events that will be created for the Generosity Project. Please be sure to participate as much as possible to learn more about giving and being generous toward others and the world!  
Update 7/01/2020

Are we going the wrong way?

One of my favorite movie scenes is from Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. Steve Martin and John Candy are driving along on an interstate trying to get home for Thanksgiving. Steve Martin had fallen asleep, John Candy was driving. At some point John had gone up an exit ramp instead of an entrance ramp. They are cruising along in the middle of the night, no traffic around. Suddenly there is a car on the other side of the divider and driver is yelling at them. Steve rolls the window down, and he hears them yelling ‘You’re going the wrong way!’ John looks at Steve and asks what they are yelling? Steve responds with they think we are going the wrong way. John responds with the best line ever. ‘How do they know where we are going?’ Steve thinks about it and agrees. They assume the other driver is drunk, and wave them off. About 10 seconds later there are 2 semi’s heading straight at them. They manage to squeeze between the two trucks, scraping the mirrors off the car, and scaring the heck out of them. I love the line, ‘How do they know where we are going?’
How many times have people tried to tell us we are going the wrong way? Our parents were probably one of the first ones to mention we were going the wrong way. When we were heading towards a hot stove, we might get a warning first, then maybe a slap on the hand, and if we still hadn’t figured it out, a harder slap on the butt, and a less than gentle pull in the other direction. Sometimes we have to touch the stove before we trust the person who is trying to steer us away from the pain.

The church is the same way. People are standing inside and outside the church yelling we are going the wrong way. We are not doing enough, we are doing too much. We re-opened too soon, we never should have closed. The sermons are too long, but they should be longer. Pastor’s message is right on, but it doesn’t speak to me. We are spending too much money, but we need to spend more. We are going the wrong way, no matter which way we go. But do they know where we are going?

Some on the inside trying to figure out which way we should be going. So some say the stove is hot, others say the only way to learn is to touch the stove. I think there is another way, learn from people that touched the stove. Ask them if they would touch it again. Learning from others is a lot less painful in most cases. So that is what we are trying to do. We listened to our Bishop’s advice and recommendations. We researched the CDC guidelines. We called other churches and heard what they were planning, and then we decided we could safely open the church for services. We felt one of the best ways to serve our members is to offer them the option of attending service in person.
During all of the discussion about what to do, we focused on our church mission; Make Christ Known! We felt we were doing that though our service to the poor, and to the food banks. But how do we make sure our members can hear God’s word, and have the confidence to spread that word in a world that is suffering.

So, are we going the wrong way? I don’t think so. I think as long as we keep our mission of Making Christ known as our guiding light, we will stay on the right path.

Attendance has been better than I thought it would be for our first four services. We are averaging about 40 people. Thanks to everyone that has come to the service, and thank you to all that have stayed home. We don’t want anyone to feel uncomfortable in either situation. While we continue to do everything we can to make the service as safe as possible, staying home and watching on Face Book or You Tube is perfect as well. No matter how you are getting your God time, in person, online, or on your own, it is all good. God is there if you are looking for him.

Thank you all for your continued support of our mission. With you help, the SOH team can continue to make Christ know throughout our community.

Thanks
Duane Gilson
Council President.

EVENING BIBLE STUDY  - We’re Back… and we are also now online!

We resumed our Wednesday Night Bible Study here at the church and we will be also remain on line through the ZOOM application using the same log-in address as we use for the Coffee time with Pastor. Pastor Tony will lead this Bible study throughout the summer we will be studying the scriptures that will be read at the next Sunday worship service. Everyone who is to be present at the church MUST be wearing a mask for everyone’s protection. Masks are available if needed. If you are not able to join us here at church, please log on to this ZOOM video call on your computer or phone at 6:00 pm.  Join us anytime!


Meeting ID: 640 106 1099
Password: 0jtiAH
See you there!


SPIRIT OF HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH WELCOME BACK!

Thank you for your cooperation with the following procedures and logistics that are designed to go above and beyond to keep everyone safe and in compliance with CDC/State guidelines while maintaining a reverent and prayerful atmosphere. On – line services will continue and you are asked to only come to Services if you are healthy and comfortable doing so.

Initially, there will be only one service offered and that will be on Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

What you need to know:

·Although we have worked diligently to limit risk and exposure as we reopen our services, there is still risk in attending with others.

·Do not come to Church if there are any signs that you might be sick, or you are taking care of someone who is sick – don’t just assume its allergies or a harmless sniffle! Please act out of an overabundance of caution for the sake of all.

·Masks or other face coverings that cover both your nose and mouth are encouraged for the safety of others while attending Services. Water fountains are shut off, so if you need water, please bring a water bottle.

 ·Please consider bringing a personal supply of hand sanitizer and/or a disinfecting wipe for your area if possible.

·Be at Church no more than 20 min early as we are trying to limit the time you are exposed to others.

·Don’t be late, as we will not seat anyone once the service begins.

·Greeters at the door will remind you to wear your mask and your tithing envelopes can be dropped off just inside near the baptismal font or by the Hunger Baskets. We will not pass offering plates during the offertory.

·The ushers will be there to help with the Seating.  Seating has been carefully measured to ensure that there is at least 6 feet of distance between family groups. The ushers will be there during communion to ensure proper distancing as well.

·At this time there will not be children's services or nursery staff. Children attending will remain with their families.

·There will be no singing for a while except by Jake and Lizzie.

·Quietly and prayerfully recite prayers and responses as to not project your voice and increase droplets in the environment.

·Do not shake hands with others or hold hands during the “Our Father.” We will also be omitting the “sign of peace.”

·Pastor will distribute Communion using gloves and dropping the host into your hand being careful not to touch each person. Wine/juice will be distributed by helpers wearing masks and gloves and the cups will be in the trays placed apart to make it easier to get a portion without touching any other cups.

·At the conclusion of Service, we will dismiss people in a carefully planned manner, section by section, to encourage proper social distancing as we leave as well. Please wait to be dismissed.

·We know you will be glad to see many of your fellow parishioners, but please do not congregate in the narthex but exit the doors and visit outside if you want to or go directly to your cars.

·Be sure to wash your hands, sanitize, etc. as soon as you are able after exiting the Church!

·You are not responsible for enforcing the policies and procedures during the Service. If you have any issues, please report them to your usher or Pastor directly. They will handle it from there.

·Even with all of the planning and preparation, things will not go perfectly. Pray for patience, wisdom, understanding, and forgiveness!
‌



‌



Coffee with the Pastor – ONLINE      
               Join me and others for coffee on
Wednesdays at 9:00 AM as we reflect on the social distancing and our lives during the covid-19 pandemic. We are all looking for some social interaction and this is your chance!   You are invited to join me on a ZOOM call… this is how you do this.
Open your internet browser
Copy and paste the link below into the address line.
  We will go live starting at 9:00am

https://zoom.us/j/6401061099?pwd=L1luVWlPcnRreDYzeTdMRks1ZEp1UT09

Meeting ID: 640 106 1099
Password: 0jtiAH
See you there!
Youth Update

I hope everyone is having a great start to summer!

I’d like to get an idea of how everyone would feel about doing a virtual VBS this year. 

I’ve spoken to a few other churches to get a plan together and it would look something like this:

1) It would be online- roughly a 30 min video
2) It would be 3 days of VBS
3) Families could pick up a box at the church with craft supplies and snack supplies etc. to follow along at home. 
4) We would ask for some family involvement (taking over the craft or snack for 1 day by marking a short video explaining to everyone how it would work). I can help as much as needed with this.

We’d love to run it and I’m happy to put together the videos- I just want to make sure there is interest. Please shoot me an email or text with "We’re in for Virtual VBS" if it sounds like something your kids would like to do!

602-832-4122

Thursday Morning Bible Study at 6:30 AM. Bring your own coffee!!!!
Holy Land Trip
January 21-31, 2021  

The registration website for the Spirit of Hope Israel Trip is now available. Please follow this link, register, and pay your deposit as soon as possible so you can reserve your spot on the trip.


When you get to the site you will find a "Register Now" link on the lower right-hand side of the page. After clicking that link you'll be asked to fill out the registration form. Here are a few things to note:
If you are traveling with someone else you will register both people at the same time. 

  • You need your passport when you complete the registration. 
  • The deposit is $300 and you can pay by Credit Card. 
  • You will be asked to create an account with a username and password, be sure to note your selection as you will need to log in again to complete your payment(s) for the trip. 
  • Travel insurance is available at the time of registration. It is strongly encouraged that you purchase this. You MUST purchase travel insurance BEFORE you pay the deposit, you cannot choose to purchase travel insurance after you have paid for any portion of the trip, including the deposit. 

If you have any questions about the registration process please don't hesitate to ask!

Peace be with you!


Pastor Tony
Message from Jen


In order to protect our health, I ask that you don't visit the church at this time. We have a secured mailbox, just open the mailbox door and there is a slot inside of it to place your envelopes. Please feel free to place anything in the mail slot.



We will continue to accept food donations, however, please remember that the packages must be sealed, nonperishable items. We CANNOT accept open cereal, fruit, vegetables, pet food etc.

Please place your donations in the clear bin, located outside the church, next to the office window.








AmazonSmile
A quick and easy way to support SOH is when you shop at Amazon. Simply shop @AmazonSmile, look for SOH, and Amazon will make a donation to Spirit of Hope Lutheran Church! 
Help Support Causes in Your Community!

Did you know you can support nonprofit organizations in your community just by shopping at Fry's? It's easy when you enroll in Fry's Community Rewards! To get started, sign up with your V.I.P Card , and select a local organization you wish to support. Once you're enrolled, you'll earn rewards for your chosen organization every time you shop and use your V.I.P Card!
www.fryscommunityrewards.com
SOH organization number is 80606

Thank you 
Wendy and Senior's Rock
                
Numbers For June



6/1-6/7 $1,170
6/8-6/14 $5,653
6/15-6/21 $4,303
6/22-6/28 $3,099

Seasonal Weekly Goal Is: $6,250


The seasonal giving goal is a reflection of the 2020 budget prepared by the Council and approved by the Congregation and adjusted for the reduced attendance over four months of the summer.

Thank you for your continued support of our mission and ministry at SOH!
A word from our Financial Secretary

Although we are limited in our ability to commune in fellowship, Spirit of Hope continues to make its presence known through virtual services and through community outreach fulfilling the ongoing mission and ministry of Jesus in our community.

We ask that during this time of need, you continue to make weekly offerings. It is through the faithful, weekly giving of our members we continue to maintain our day to day and missionary obligations during this time.

How can members remain faithful in their giving responsibility and thus continue to invest in and fund the continued mission and ministry of our church?

1.        Continue giving weekly through your personal banking online bill pay service.
2.        Use the Spirit of Hope online giving option at https://https://soh.breezechms.com/give/online .
3.        Use the Spirit of Hope texting option at (480) 725-1140.
4.        Send your donation through the U.S. Postal Service at 2605 S. Signal Butte Rd., Mesa, AZ 85209.

If you need help with setting up or amending your current offering, please reach out to our Financial Secretary, Kianda Addo ( [email protected] ).
 
Did you know? 

Giving makes us feel happy - Giving activates regions of the brain associated with pleasure, social connection, and trust.
Giving is good for our health - It has been found that giving may improve physical health and help decrease stress which in turn increases longevity.
Giving promotes cooperation and social connection - The more you give, the more you’re likely to get back. These exchanges promote a sense of trust and cooperation while strengthening of social ties.
Giving evokes gratitude - Gratitude is an integral part of happiness, health and social bonds. Cultivating gratitude in everyday life increases one’s sense of optimism and personal happiness.
Giving is contagious - When we give, not only do we help the immediate recipient of the gift, we create a ripple effect by generosity in the community. 
‌
We pray for the spouses and families of those church members who have passed into the church triumphant this past month.
We pray for those church members who are struggling with many health issues this week:
Darr Stuke who is at home from the hospital, recovering from surgery.
Naomi Henson and her daughter Wynonna and her husband
Bobbie Edwardson and her mother Marilyn and her father and her brother, Marvin
Bill Zimmerman who is currently recovering from surgeries and is scheduled for a few more major surgeries in near future

Carl’s friend Jamie who is being tested for cancer in a tumor.
We pray for comfort and peace for Bob Germadnik through memory loss and physical disability.



May the God of good health and happiness restore all who are struggling this week with the many situations people in our lives are struggling. Thank you for your presence and give us the joys of everyday life!

AMEN