The Columbia Weekly

August 7, 2026

Dear Columbia Family,

There are now eight fires in the Pacific Northwest larger than 100,000 acres (5 in Oregon and 3 in Washington). Some of us have friends and families who have been physically impacted by these fires – losing their homes and neighborhoods. Even if you do not personally know someone who lost their livelihood, all of us have been impacted by the poor air quality, as smoke continues to choke the skies.

Two essential things for life, breath and rest, are being threatened by those fires. There are other things that also threaten breath and rest: political and economic uncertainties, war, violence in our streets, annoying bosses or neighbors, illnesses, etc. And to all who can’t get a breather or to all who are restless, our Lord says to come to Him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). Come to Jesus and breathe. Come to Jesus and rest. That is Good News.

But the Good News doesn’t end there. He actually calls us to be such presence in the world. “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John 20:21). We are to be such presence to the world – presence of breath and rest. How can we be such presence? How can we be the presence of breath and rest, presence of life, presence of God’s Kingdom? This Sunday, we will share how Jesus calls us to be that presence, as He calls us to bear good fruits. So, come and find out. I hope to see you there.

Pastor John

To prepare for worship: Read Luke 6:43-45



Watch previous worship services on Church Center or listen to previous sermons on Spotify.

Announcements

Events with the Church Center icon require registration.

Need assistance? Call the church office (360) 694-7549.

Film Fest

Wednesday, August 12, 6:00pm

Fellowship Hall & Sanctuary

All are welcome to join our students, interns, and leaders as we look back on this incredible summer! We will meet in the Fellowship Hall for snacks and time to mingle, and then we will move up to the Sanctuary to watch slideshows from VBS, Work Camp, and Bike Hike! We will also hear stories from students and leaders about the amazing ways God has moved this summer. We hope to see you at this fun intergenerational event!

Backpacks for Mac

Collection Drive: now through August 16 (School begins August 24)

Drop-Off Locations: Gathering Area & Church Office

Help local students start the school year ready to learn! Once again, we're partnering with McLoughlin Middle School by collecting backpacks (all colors accepted, but black is the most requested color by the students) and college-ruled composition books or spiral notebooks. No other supplies are needed this year. You can also provide a monetary donation designated for "Mac" in the memo - mail to the church or place it in the offering box at the back of the Sanctuary.

More than 70% of McLoughlin students qualify for free breakfast and lunch, and many families need extra support as they prepare for a new school year. By providing these basic school supplies, we can help ensure students arrive on the first day focused on learning—not worrying about whether they have what they need. Columbia Presbyterian Church is grateful to partner with McLoughlin throughout the year, supporting students, families, and staff at our neighborhood school of 900 6th–8th grade students.

Questions? Contact Nancy Johns at 360-624-6598, or Julie Mauer at 360-521-0945.

Red Cross Blood Drive

Monday, August 17, 11:00am-5:00pm

Fellowship Hall

The American Red Cross has declared the second national blood crisis in its history. Blood donations are now at a four-year summer low. All blood types are needed, but the situation is especially dire for type O donors are asked to take action. You can sign up at redcrossblood.org or email Pat Henderson.

Summer Lunch Event

August 18, 11:30am-1:00pm

Fellowship Hall

Looking for meaningful conversation and connection this summer? Bring your own lunch and join us for an engaging discussion with fellow church members. This gathering will feature a facilitated conversation on Community, giving participants the opportunity to reflect and prepare if they wish. Bring your own lunch and beverage (water will be provided) and enjoy a relaxed time of fellowship and thoughtful discussion. Hosted by the Health Ministry Team.

High School Student Leadership

Applications Due: Wednesday, August 13

High school students, we would love to have you join our team of leaders for Middle School, Grove 345 and/or PreK-5th Grade Sunday School. Please read through the application for more information and reach out to Pastor Sarah, Anna or Tifny with any questions! May God bless you as you discern this special call to lead our kids and youth. Apply here.

All-Church Camping Adventure - Registration Deadline August 9

August 14-16

Millersylvania State Park

Our all-church camping adventure is just a few weeks away, and there’s still room for you to join us! We have tent sites reserved at Millersylvania State Park, just outside Olympia. The park features a beautiful lake, perfect for swimming and non-motorized boating. If you have a paddle board, kayak, inflatable pink swan, or anything else that floats, bring it along! Hiking and biking trails are also available throughout the park. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the fixin’s for dinner will be provided Friday and Saturday evenings - just bring a side dish to share. Coffee will be provided each morning. Use this time to slow down, recharge, connect with friends and family, and enjoy God’s beautiful creation. Reserve your campsite by Sunday, August 9 here.

Make & Take Card Making Class

Saturday, August 22, 9:00am-12:00pm

Fellowship Hall

Join Katy Graham, Ann Ferguson and Terry Hurley for a morning of cardmaking and fellowship. All supplies are included and you’ll have four beautiful cards to send to family or friends. Suggested donation to be collected at class is $10. Sign up here.

Health Ministry Survey

The Health Ministry Team invites you to complete its Health Assessment Survey. Your feedback will help the team better understand your interests and needs, including potential health education topics, as it plans activities for 2026–2027. To complete the survey online click here, or a paper version is available in the Gathering Area on the table beneath the Health Ministry brochure rack. The survey will be available all summer, but early responses are appreciated. Thank you for your support!

High School Fall Retreat

September 25-27

Camp Tadmor in Lebanon, OR

Do you love hanging out with friends, worshipping around a campfire, exploring nature, playing paintball AND you're going to be in high school this school year? If so, come to High School Fall Retreat! Registration is open with a discount for all who sign up before August 15. Register here.

Middle School Fall Retreat

October 16-18

Camp Tadmor in Lebanon, OR

We'd love to spend a weekend with you at Camp Tadmor in Lebanon, OR. We will play lots of games, eat good food, hang out together - and you can sign up to play paintball on Saturday if you want! Registration is open with a discount for all who sign up before September 5. Register here.

CPC Cares

In Concern:

• Jay Langsdorf - on hospice
• Linda Markee - recovering from open heart surgery
• Annie Reid - recovering from back surgery
• Russ Parker - health concerns
• Carla Groce - treatment for breast cancer
• Shae Sobottke - health concerns
• Bill Prastka - on hospice
• Joan Prastka - receiving care for dementia
• Jim Hudson - health concerns
• Kay Thorpe - health concerns

In Person:

Checks or Cash

in the Offering Box

located in the Sanctuary

Electronically:

Credit or Debit Card

and ACH Transfers

Give Now via Church Center

By Mail or Bill Pay:

Columbia Presbyterian Church

8715 St. Helens Ave

Vancouver, WA 98664

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