GRACE NOTES

~A weekly newsletter of grace and information~

September 14, 2025

Be a pointe of grace — God’s grace, to everyone you meet . . .  

All are Welcome...and we mean ALL.



As people of Grace, made one in the waters of baptism, we are strengthened by diversity. We are a community that is committed to racial equity and welcomes people of every ability, age, citizenship status, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, language, life circumstance, marital status, political perspective, race, sexual orientation, and creed.

Whether you are a believer, doubter, or seeker, or something in between, 

you are welcomed and valued here. We celebrate God’s unconditional love and respond joyfully to all of God’s diverse people present here.

Notes from Interim Pastor

Dear Beloved Community,

It is my joy to officially begin serving as your interim transition pastor as we celebrate a new school year wrapped in God’s blessings. Many of you have co-led worship and co-hosted fellowship with such warmth and hospitality. Thank you for your gracious presence.

You may have noticed something missing from our Back-to-School Blessing last week—yes, the backpack tags! And I didn’t have enough mini-gifts for everyone. So this coming Sunday, September 14, all teachers and students will receive both during the Children’s Message.

We’ve also become aware of a few sound system hiccups affecting our online worship community. If you weren’t able to hear the sermon, you’re welcome to read the transcript anytime at https://www.yikigai.info

Now, what’s next? (Please refer to the timetable provided at the conclusion of this article)

We’re entering a season of discernment together. Two key teams will guide this transition, and for now, our focus is on forming the Transition Team. The Church Council will begin identifying candidates whose role will be to help the congregation discover its next faithful step. This is a journey that involves all of you.

You’ll be invited into a process of reflection and dreaming. There are many ways to engage this, and here’s one example:

• What may be the impact that God wants to make in the congregation and community at large through the ministry of PoG?
• What outcomes (behavioral patterns, relationships, and engagement with the community) would foster that impact?
• What are the values of the congregation that will help ensure your ministries stay aligned with the outcomes?
• What are the metrics that will help you know that you're moving in the right direction?

These questions will help you envision the future together.

With this discernment, you will then ask: What kind of pastor is called to lead us into that future, in terms of gifts and strengths? What resources do we already have, and what do we need to support this exciting transformation and live into that impact?

It may feel daunting, but clarity will come as we walk together. The Transition Team will guide each step, listening deeply to your insights, gathering stories and hopes, and shaping them into a document called the Ministry Site Profile (MSP). This profile will then guide the Call Committee as they begin the search for your next pastor.

I’m honored to walk with you in this season of listening, learning, and faithful imagining.

With gratitude and hope, Pr. Jade

Youth Group

Starts Sunday, September 14th

2nd & 4th Sunday at 11am in the Hive

Youth Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Sunday at 11am. All youth (5th-12th graders) are welcomed into The Hive.

Packs for Kids

Packing Parties for September

Sept 16 6:30-8:00pm

Sept 30 4:30-6:00 pm

We provide weekend “packs” of food for food insecure students in the Mukilteo School district. Come join the food bag filling fun.

In October we will meet on October 7 and October 21.

Confirmation

Resumes September 21 at 11:00 am

Confirmation is a 2 year program for students 6th-12th grade with their parents and mentors walking through their baptismal promises. If you are interested in joining confirmation, contact the Pastor at Pastor@pointeofgracechurch.org.

Confirmation resumes September 7 and will then follow the schedule below.

• Sept. 7—Apostles Creed Paragraph 1, Confirmation Bible verse
• Sept. 21—Apostles Creed Paragraph 2, Confirmation Bible verse, Introduction to writing your own creed.
• Oct. 12—Apostles Creed Paragraph 3, More on writing creeds.
• Nov. 2—Confirmation Sunday, Students present their Bible verse and their creed.

Children’s Chapel

Sunday, September 21

1st & 3rd Sunday During the School Year

We welcome our youngest worshipers to Children's Church on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month. Children will begin service in the sanctuary with their families and then are invited to go to Children's Church in The Hive. After crafts, games, and a bible lesson, children return to the sanctuary and their families during the Passing of the Peace.

Coffee, Doughnuts, & Prayer

Saturday, Sept. 27 from 9:00-10:00am

(4th Saturday of each month)

Every 4th Saturday of the month, we will gather at 9:00AM at the church for Coffee, Doughnuts, & Prayer. “I mean, what could be better than that, those are my three favorite things!” After enjoying a few minutes of greetings, some excellent Lutheran coffee, and Henry’s Doughnuts, we will gather in the sanctuary for a very simple time of prayer. We will sit in a circle and offer whatever prayers we bring. You can speak your prayers out loud, or silently in your heart. You can offer as many prayers as you want and for whatever you want. It has been our experience that this always feels like a holy and precious time. Come and join us, we look forward to meeting you and being in God’s presence together.

Women’s Bible Study

Wednesdays from 10-11:30 am

The Women’s Bible Study at Pointe of Grace Lutheran is a group of women committed to the study of the Scriptures, to prayer and to each other. The joy we experience learning and the support we receive as we look into the meaning of the Scriptures keeps us returning each week. The women in the study come from a variety of church experiences although most attend Pointe of Grace. What this study does is deepen faith and friendship as we go out to do what we learn. Please join us! If you have any questions, contact Evelyn at evlnseymour@gmail.com.

Come to our Ladies Bible study as we work through the Life Guide study of " James: Faith That Works” by Andrew T & Phyllis J. Le Peau. Contact Evelyn if you need help getting the study book.

Prayer Shawl Ministry

1st & 3rd Thursdays each month at 10am

Like to knit or crochet? Consider joining the Prayer Shawl Ministries. We are caring people who wish to share our God-given talent of knitting and crocheting with a prayerful ministry that reaches out to those in need of peace, comfort and solace.

If you would like more information on this ministry, contact Karen Evans, rlkaevans@comcast.net or contact the church office.

Order of St Luke Bible Study & Prayer

Online on Thursdays from 7:30-9:00pm

Join our Order of St. Luke Bible Study and Prayer Group online from 7:30-9:00pm. We meet each week to study and pray for each other and other prayer concerns that come to us. Anyone is welcome to join this group, no pre requirements. You can find the link posted on the our website.

Pointe of Grace is one of only two congregations in the state of Washington to have an active OSL Healing Community. OSL is an international interdenominational organization over 80 years old that is dedicated to restoring the ministry of healing prayer to local congregations.

Acts and Imagination Retreat:

Spirit-Led Leadership toward Multicultural Community

Sat, Sept. 20th from 9:00am - 3:00pm

Advent Lutheran, Mill Creek

Free for Pointe of Grace congregants

Using LiVE Promo code: LiVE2025

This retreat invites leaders into the vibrant, surprising world of the Book of Acts—not as a congregational blueprint, but to spark an imagination for how God is present and moving in today’s complex world. Participants will explore how the Spirit provokes life amid difference, and confident witness amid times of uncertainty. Come practice a biblical faith that helps you to imagine how God revitalizes your personal & communal faith. This retreat is lead by Eric D. Barreto, PhD, Frederick and Margaret L. Weyerhaeuser Associate Professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary

Xaalh “The Way of the Masks”

Sept 19 from 6-8pm at Woodland Park Zoo. Seattle WA

The Way of the Masks is a Native-led journey of ceremony and resistance to protect ancient forests, salmon habitat, and tribal sovereignty.

Indigenous leaders from Se’Si’Le and the Lummi Nation’s House of Tears Carvers will travel over 1,600 miles across the Northwest, bringing carved cedar masks that honor the sacred balance of life, called xaalh. This journey will feature nine stops which are open to the public. This year’s campaign centers on defending the Roadless Rule, one of the strongest protections for our remaining wild forests. That protection is now under threat from Trump-era rollbacks. Events along the route will bring together Tribal Nations, local communities, faith leaders, and environmental advocates in powerful acts of solidarity and ceremony.

Together, we’re calling for the protection of these sacred ecosystems. We invite you to show up, spread the word, and stand with us in defense of forests, rivers, and justice. Check out Se’Si’Le for more information about the entire journey.

SKY Meeting

Sunday, October 5 | 6:00 – 7:00 pm

The first SKY Meeting of 2025-2026 will be on Sunday, October 5. We start our time together at 6pm with a meal, followed by games and Bible study. Students will be available for pick-up at 7:30pm. Our meetings are geared towards engaging youth with each other through small and large group activities.

SKY meets on the first Sunday of each month from October through May. Also keep a lookout for additional activities like game nights and service outings.

Bi-Annual Convention of the

Women of the NW WA Synod

Sat, October 4th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at Trinity Lutheran, Lynnwood / Cost $45

Our Bi-Annual Convention will soon be here, and it would be great to see you all there! For information and to register, CLICK HERE.

We need one delegate from each church attending to be at the business meeting held at the beginning portion of the convention. If you are the only one from your church attending…you are the voting delegate, otherwise please elect one woman (of those attending) to be your delegate.

Our speaker for the day is Pastor Mary Lindborg who will be using Psalm 16:11as she shares “You (God) Show Me the Path of Life”. During our time together, we will explore both our own journeys and the way our journeys intersect with other women's paths, such as Lutheran women from different times and places. God shows us the path of life one step at a time, some of which are only clear in hindsight. Let's help each other reflect on the path of life we walk as women of faith. (Pastor Lindborg’s bio was in the spring ECHO newsletter.)

Please fill out the registration form and send it with your check to our board treasurer, Linda Rudy, by September 12th.

Please think about bringing a friend, carpooling, and enjoying a delightful day with other women of faith! I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at the convention!

With Hope and Thankfulness ~ Twyla Lucas, president of NW WA WELCA

Middle School & High School Synod Retreat

Finding God in Unexpected Places

Friday, November 7at 6pm – Sunday, November 9 at 11am at Black Diamond Camp

You are invited to join us for the 2025 Fall Middle School/High School Retreat at Black Diamond Camp with a theme of “Finding God in Unexpected Places.” The cost is $125 per person, thanks to a generous donation from the NWWA Synod Children, Youth, and Family Committee. We are going to explore all of the places we find God, including those where we don’t expect it. Registration opens September 15th.

If you have any questions, please email cyflutheransnw@gmail.com. 

See More Synod Events

Click here for the latest Synod News.

The weekly electronic newsletter contains news and events from around our Synod as well as important news from the National Church.

Click here to sign up.

September is National Suicide Awareness Month

Click here to read the articles and resources from the Women of the ELCA to learn ways you can help raise awareness about suicide prevention in your congregation and community.

Sunday, September 14

9:30 am Worship Service—onsite & online

11:00 am Youth Group—onsite

1-6:oo pm Unity Church—onsite

Monday, September 15

9:00 am-1:00 pm Harbour Pointe Preschool

—onsite

5:30-9:00 pm   Boy Scouts—onsite

Tuesday, September 16

9:00 am-1:00 pm Harbour Pointe Preschool

—onsite

10-11:00 am PoG Staff Meeting—onsite

5:30-7:00 pm LoTH AA—onsite

6:30-8:00 pm Packs for Kids "Packing Party

—onsite

7:00-9:00 pm Sober on the Sound AA—onsite

Wednesday, Tuesday 17

9:00 am-1:00 pm Harbour Pointe Preschool

—onsite

11:30 am Women's Bible Study —onsite

Thursday, September 18

9:00 am-1:00 pm Harbour Pointe Preschool

—onsite

10-11:00 am Prayer Shawl Ministry—onsite

10-11:00 am AA Meeting—onsite

6:30 pm Council Meeting—onsite

6:00-8 pm Girl Scouts—onsite

7:30-9 pm Order of St. Luke Payer & Bible Study

—online

Friday, September 19

9:00 am-1:00 pm Harbour Pointe Preschool

—onsite

Saturday, September 20

2:30-4:30 pm Girl Scouts—onsite

Sunday, September 21

9:30 am Worship Service—onsite & online

Children's Chapel (PreK-5th)

11:00 am Confirmation—onsite

11:00 am Worship Planning Meeting—onsite

1-6:oo pm Unity Church—onsite

For more information, go to the Pointe of Grace website or call the office at 425-263-8730.

Thanks for all who Participated in the Parade.

Blessing of the Backpacks was a Huge Success.

Financial Snapshot

For month ending July 2025:

General Fund Balance — $183,966.80

Monthly Income — $28,512.34

Monthly Expenses — $22,278.68

Monthly Net Revenue — $6,233.66

Church Directory

We are no longer using Instant Church Directory. We have moved everything to our Tithe.ly Database, Elvanto.

To Get an Elvanto User Profile.

To access the Elvanto Database, you must request access from the office by phone or email. You will then receive an email from Pointe of Grace with your account login details. Open the email and click the link provided to set up your password.

Now you can access the church information either through your computer browser (at https://tithely-pointeofgrace.elvanto.net/login) or you can download the Elvanto app.

Accessing Elvanto using the App

Access Elvanto on the go from anywhere you are! Whether you're using a smartphone or tablet, you'll be able to enjoy the full suite of Elvanto features for a seamless and convenient experience. Let's get started!

1. Download the Elvanto App by following one of the links below:

• For Apple users: from the App Store
• For Android users: from Google Play

2. Open the app and enter in your email address that is associated with your Elvanto user profile as well as your user password.

3. Finally, you will be directed to your Elvanto account, where you will enjoy the same features available through your web browser, ensuring a seamless experience.

HARBOUR POINTE CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL

 2025-2026

REGISTRATION INFORMATION is Open!!

*Registration for 2025-2026 is open for all applicants

*Registration forms are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration fee must be paid at the time of registration.

*Registration opens up to the greater community on February 10, 2025.

*Registration forms WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED prior to February 3, 2025.

Contact Anja Conklin/Director for more information at harbourpointechristianschool@hotmail.com or (425) 353-7457

SCHEDULE OF CLASSES

2025-2026

In-house registration for current families of Harbour Pointe Christian Preschool and Pointe of Grace Lutheran Church begins February 3, 2025. Registration for the greater community begins one week later. 

A non-refundable $350 registration fee for Preschool classes is due upon enrollment. The registration for Jr. Kindergarten is $375 (also due upon enrollment). The registration fee for Friday add-on class ( Full STEAM Ahead is $125).  

Annual tuition has been divided into 10 equal payments.  The first tuition payment is due prior to August 5, 2025. All invoices will be paid through our Brightwheel App.

The staff reserves the right to evaluate interested preschoolers for possible enrollment. Due to the restrictions of staff and space and in consideration of those who qualify, we reserve the right to enforce the deadlines imposed by the Mukilteo School District. To enter the young threes program, these guidelines ask that your child be 2.5 by August 31. To enter the threes program, these guidelines ask that your child be three by August 31 of that school year. To enter the fours program your child should be four by August 31 of that school year.

Please Pray for Your Council Leaders

Jeff Mach—President—council.president@pointeofgracechurch.org

Alicia Raaum—Vice President—council.vp@pointeofgracechurch.org

Walter Campbell—Treasurer—council.treasurer@pointeofgracechurch.org

Kristina Bowman—secretary—council.secretary@pointeofgracechurch.org

Karl Olson—council.1@pointeofgracechurch.org

Peter Catterall—council.2@pointeofgracechurch.org 

Bryan Lee—council.3@pointeofgracechurch.org 

Having a Ministry Meeting????

Schedule your meeting space with the Office.

Pointe of Grace is used by community members as well as our ministries. To ensure there is space for your meeting, please contact the Office at office@pointeofgracechurch.org at least two business days before your meeting.

Please remember, the office is open Tuesday-Friday from 9am-12pm.

Worship Leaders

If you are interested in learning about or being a worship leader, please contact the people below using your church directory. They will schedule you accordingly. We will no longer be using the sign up sheet on the clipboard.

Assisting ministers: Coe Hutchison—cmhutchison@hotmail.com

Lectors: Jeff Mach—jeff.mach@gmail.com

Communion Servers: JW Karlsten & Carmen L—jwillyjwilly@gmail.com

Ushers/Greeters: Ron Evans—rlkaevans@comcast.net

Acolyte & Crucifers: Alicia Raaum—alice_raaum@hotmail.com

Altar Guild: Janet Hutchison—jkhutchison@hotmail.com

Music: Rebecca Herivel—music@pointeofgracechurch.org

Fellowship: Shelley & Bill Franz—franzfam5@comcast.net

Tech Booth: SEEKING LEADER—techteam@pointeofgracechurch.org

Grace Notes Deadline

Announcements for the Grace Notes must be received by 10:00 am on Wednesday.

If articles are not received before the deadline, they will be added to the next week's edition.

Fundraising efforts and other charitable initiatives at Pointe of Grace and the NW Washington Synod will not be publicized in Grace Notes unless reviewed and approved by the church council beforehand.

The Spirit

Click here for the September 2025 edition of The Spirit, a monthly publication of the NW Washington Synod.

This month's edition features articles written by our Synod Vice President, Kay Edgerton and Bishop Shelley Bryan Wee.

You can find previous editions at lutheransnw.org/news/the-spirit.