A message from Pastor Tony
“And he kissed all his brothers and wept over them. Afterward his brothers talked with him.”
Genesis 45:15
In it’s context this quote comes from the story of Joseph and the coat of many colors.  After his brothers beat Joseph and sold him as a slave and found himself imprisoned in Egypt.  After a period of time, Joseph was given a place of privilege in Egypt because of his skills of interpreting Pharaoh’s bad dreams. During a great drought his brothers came to Egypt desperate to receive food and supplies. It was then that Joseph felt compassion on his brothers,  disclosed his identity, and took in his family out of brotherly love.  

Now, I have 4 brothers and I’m quite sure I would not have been that forgiving if I were in Joseph sandals. My brothers and I were not that close growing up even though 4 of us were fairly close in age.  We fought all the time and each of us found neighborhood friends to hang around.  We are now all getting old and are getting along a little better these days.  I mean, we don’t go out of our way to share our lives with each other because we live long distance from one another, but we do talk and help one another when we need some support or advice.  

My oldest brother, Kurt, is a surgical doctor in Wisconsin and always has the answer to any medical situation we may need to know about.  Steven, who is the closest to me in age and always was my shadow growing up, is a modern day American Picker and Antique collector that knows a great financial deal when he finds one.  He sends me every old Bible he finds knowing I have an interest in them.  I have several Bibles that are well over 100 years old.  Mike is a hospital pharmacist in Fargo, ND and can tell you the grim details of every medication your doctor prescribes to you… even the good ones.  Then there is my baby brother, Robert, who is 16 years younger than me.  He has some learning and physical disabilities and lives with my mother. They seem to do a great job taking care of one another. Rob calls me almost daily to see how I am doing and asks several intriguing questions.   I am the brother, who of course is the Pastor, who tends to put a glass half full twist to every negative situation or argument that the family may be in. This really ticks off a few of my brothers!  
Anyway, Carol and I are planning to take a long trip in August back to the Dakotas to see both sides of our family.  I haven’t seen a few of my brothers since my father died 10 years ago.  It’s time.  My mother has already prepared a “to do” list for me even though 3 of my brothers live in Fargo.   Steve informed me today that he probably will be moving the week that I am there and he could use my help.  Great.  I guess this is what we do to keep the conversation from drifting back to childhood fights we each still hold on to.  We still depend on one another.  

There is something about family that holds us together.  Like Joseph’s family, we might not always like each other but there is a loving bond that is unconditional and ever-lasting.  According to the dictionary, brotherly love in the biblical sense is:

  an extension of the natural affection associated with near kin, toward the greater community of fellow believers. This love goes beyond the mere duty to "love thy neighbor as thyself", and shows itself as "unfeigned love" from a "pure heart", that extends an unconditional hand of  friendship that loves when not loved back, that gives without getting, and ever looks for what is best in others.

Jesus instills in us that our church family is to have that same love for one another.   In our Spirit of Hope church family, It has been a while since we have seen each other in our worship center and yet we still carry our love for others with us.  Be sure to share your love and keep in touch with those whom you haven’t seen or heard from.  It will strengthen a bond that cannot be broken.

Amen
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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!  

This is an organization Spirit of Hope wants to become partners within the near future. 
Genesis Project is a coalition of churches in the Apache Junction area banded together for the common purpose of aiding the less fortunate.

Genesis Project is a faith-based 501c3 organization seeking to feed the hungry and the homeless by facilitating hot meals, showers, clothing, and medical services.

Right now the need for people that are in need is water. Water is something we can help with today. We will be collecting cases of bottled water here at Spirit of Hope and at the end of the month we will load up all the cases and bring it to Genesis to be distributed as needed. Please help as you are able and drop off a few cases at the church for this cause. 

Thank You for your volunteerism!
Your Outreach Team








Update 7-22-2020

Last week I mentioned the time I ran out of gas. As Paul Harvey used to say, now you can get the rest of the story. When I ran out of gas I coasted into a farmer’s driveway. As I got out of the car, I saw the farmer walking towards me. He asked what I needed, and I told him I ran out of gas, and asked if he had any. He said no, and turned and started to walk away. As I turned to walk to the next farm he stopped and asked my name. I told him, and then he asked me the real question: Are you one of Howard’s boys? I told him I was and he said "I have some gas, hold on." I learned Gilson was a good name to have if you were one of Howard’s boys. Now this guy didn’t know me, but he knew of me. He knew if I was one of Howard’s boys, I was o.k. I got my gas, no charge, and made it home. At the time I didn’t think much about this event; I ran out of gas, I got some gas, end of story. But looking back with my 20/20 hindsight, I see how important that day was. That was when I realized that a name means something. Good, bad, or somewhere in between, it means something. In this case, being one of Howard’s boys was a good thing. I realized being one of Howard’s boys wasn’t going to carry the same meaning once I moved away from home, no one would know who Howard was. I had to create my own reputation, and I hoped it would be as good as being one of Howard’s boys. I wanted people to help my kids if they needed help. If they needed a ride, or borrow a tool or trailer from one of my friends, I wanted to know they would get help. Now they are out and making their own reputation, and I must say I am pretty proud of them. I am proud to say I am their dad. It is great when my friends tell me how one of my kids helped them out when needed, or how they were able to help my kids when needed. I don’t need my reputation anymore, they have created their own.

Remember, you get your families reputation when you are born; there is not much you can do about that. But eventually you get to make your own reputation; you can improve on what you were born with. You can create a reputation everyone would be proud of. That is the great thing about your reputation; you can make it what you want it to be. Be careful though, the reputation you create will be the one you pass down to your children. Make it a good one. Where you came from does not define where you will end up. You get to decide that.

What about our other Father; our spiritual Father? When we are baptized as a Christian, we are welcomed into God’s family. We become a child of God. So as a child of God, our Father’s reputation is one of a loving father, a father of Grace and forgiveness. Our Father is a Father of unconditional love, acceptance, plenty, fairness. We are accepted into God’s family with that reputation. As humans, we eventually create our own reputation. What reputation will we create? What will we pass down to our children? We are born into love, will we teach love, or hate? We are born into acceptance and forgiveness, will we teach racism and division? We get to choose. Make sure you choose wisely.

When I look back at both of my fathers and the reputations they passed on to me, I hope they are proud of the reputation I have made for myself. I hope my reputation reflects the same reputation I was given at birth. When I meet my fathers again, what greater thing to hear then: Good job son, good job.

Thanks
Duane Gilson
Council President
Good Morning everyone from Senior's Rock
 
Hello to all,

Just wondering if you did your homework assignment I gave you last week. I myself on behalf of Spirit of Hope and myself have sent out 20 cards. I hope it puts a smile on their face knowing they are being thought of. If you received a smile from a card post it on the 
Spirit of Hope Facebook page. Would love to hear from you.https://www.facebook.com/Spirit-of-Hope-Lutheran-Church-115925125094614/. If you are on Facebook and have not liked the page do so so now.
 
On another note, since I have been home bound I got an early start on making the calendars. Rich has once again been so kind as to send me pictures for them. We have horses and this year who took scenery pictures. So if you think it is something you will be interested in drop me a note at 
ladywendy@gmx.com The price will be the same $ 15.00 and they should be ready sooner then later. All monies collected will once again go towards buying items for the Justa Center. Hopefully, we will be able to have our bake in November to help, and once again I will be putting items on the tree.
 
Well till next time stay well, wear your mask, and be careful.
 
Blessing 
Wendy
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.”

·Upon entering the sanctuary, you will receive a prepackaged communion cup and wafer. At the time of the Lords supper, we will all receive together from our seats.

·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!
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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!
Thursday Morning Bible Study at 6:30 AM. Will be meeting at the Starbucks on Baseline and Signal Butte!!!!
Holy Land Trip
After watching the official numbers regarding Covid 19 pandemic and hearing that there are some of you that are highly concerned about the health dangers of going this January, I have decided today that we are going to postpone the entire trip for January 2022.
I am not excited about making this call and I highly encourage you to continue your plans and dreams of going to the Holy Land. I fully intend to continue to promote this trip for 2022. I’m sorry this year has to deal with the complications of Covid 19. Pray that the new year will be a healthy and a time or renewal and prosperity! God be with us! 

In the name of Christ,

Pastor Tony 



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





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 July
Income contributions only


7/13-7/19 $6,470
MTD $9,285

YTD $142,313

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 ( Kianda@spiritofhopelutheran.com ).
 
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. 
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Prayers – 
We pray for Sandy Clark and her family upon the death of both her mother and father in the past few weeks. 
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:
We pray for Max Tiede who is at home recovering from a minor stroke last week. Pray his body will heal!
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.

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