Passing the Peace

Peace Lutheran Church 1699 belvidere Dr, El Paso, TX 79912

Volume 2, Issue 7 July 2013

Are We There Yet? Thoughts Along the Way by PJ

By now, all yall have probably figured out I am a lover of story. Telling stories, reading stories, even writing stories; I love stories. I think they are an excellent way of communicating truths and engaging our imaginations. And so this morning is no exception. I want to tell you the story of what happened to a friend of mine. It a story about his trip home upon the death of his mother and what happened while he was in Ohio, in July of 2003. It is a story that involves a cup of coffee, a duck, and a toothless old man. I tell this story from a first person perspectiveI find it easier to get into the story that way. Let us begin. On the Tuesday following my mother's death, there was the usual flurry of activity -- people to call, arrangements with the funeral director, planning the service with the pastor, and time with family just remembering. Things went well, by the grace of God. I was staying in a motel in Troy, Ohio, only minutes from the hospital Mom had been in. I had been to Troy, but hadn't ever really seen this beautiful little city. So, after all was done, and I had said good-bye to my sisters and their families, I decided that rather than go back and sit in the motel alone to await my family's arrival the next day, I would just drive around and look at Troy. But, there was something I had to have first -- a cup of coffee to take with me. Right next door to the motel was a little restaurant called Crazy H's. To put the best light on it, we could call it "unassuming." It is the kind of restaurant where you always check your silverware and plates to make sure that they've been washed -- you know the kind I mean. I walked in and went up to the counter, where I was waited on by a smallish woman with rather sunken features. "Hard Life" was written in the deep lines that etched her face. She was probably in her forties, but could easily have passed for sixty. "May I have a cup of coffee to go, please?" I asked. "Sure," she replied. After hunting for a cup and lid, she poured the coffee and handed it to me as I handed her my money. "Ah," she said, "forget about it. Just do something nice for someone." She said that with a warm smile that overcame the deep lines in her face. I thanked her and left. As I drove away, I sipped the coffee. I want to tell you, it was the best cup of coffee I've ever had. It wasn't because of the taste. It wasn't because I got a freebie. It was because the coffee had the flavor of grace in it. Maybe if this had happened on any day other than one so filled with emotion and meaning for me, I might not have tasted the grace. But that day, I
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did. I was truly moved, and I savored that coffee, sip by sip, as I rode around Troy viewing the city and thinking about Mom. I really wanted to find someone to be nice to, but since I didn't know anyone in Troy, I had no idea how that would happen. So, all by myself, I savored this cup of coffee, flavored with grace. Grace is always undeserved. Grace is always a surprise. Grace is always one other thing, too. It is always something that has the power to transform us into persons we could not otherwise be. When that waitress said, "Just do something nice for someone," she transformed me into a person who truly wanted to touch someone else's life with an undeserved and unexpected measure of grace. But alas, I saw no one else that night. The next day, there was practically nothing to do but wait for Thursday's funeral service. My family had left Harleysville and was on its way to Ohio. I decided that this was a good time to drive to my hometown, Urbana, and immerse myself in memories of Mom and Dad and friends and experiences that had shaped me. I was still thinking about that waitress' kindness as I drove the 45 minutes from Troy to Urbana. My first stop was the city park -- a place I just love. There is a big pond there with a tree-filled island in the middle and dozens of waterfowl -- three or four swans, many Canadian geese, and dozens of Mallard ducks -- all swimming peacefully. It was a good place to begin my memory tour. As I watched all those birds float gracefully on the pond, I suddenly became aware of a flurry of activity about a quarter of the way around the pond. I couldn't see clearly what was happening, except that about a dozen ducks seemed to keep flying hard into another duck. I noticed that duck wasn't moving -- just flapping its wings frantically. What could this be? I began to walk over to that place and, as I drew closer, I noticed that the unmoving duck had its beak straight up in the air. Closer in, I could tell it was hooked on something. Closer still, and I could see that it was hooked on a fishing hook and the line was snagged in a tree. The duck was truly stuck and the others, with all their bashing and bumping, were trying to free it. But, the duck was caught. I looked around, realized I was the only person in the park, and wondered what to do. I didn't have a knife and I didn't have a clue how to free the duck. It was awful to see. I bent near the spot where the captive and its friends were and tried to speak comfortingly to the terrified duck. I wanted so much to free it, but I couldn't. All I could do was try to soothe it. "She's in a fix, eh?" The words from behind me startled me. I was sure I was alone, but suddenly there was this toothless old man in a kind of golf cart. I have no idea how I could have not heard him approach. "Well," he said, "let's see if we can help." He had a knife and, remarkably, he had a small pair of wire cutters on his belt. Together we tenderly pulled the duck from the water and he cut the line and then removed the hook from the duck's bill. Even more tenderly, he placed her back in the water and she swam off, surrounded by the other ducks, to the far side of the pond. "Hey," said the toothless old man, "that felt good, didn't it?" He laughed a bit as he watched the duck swim away. Then he called off to that duck, "Hey, Mrs. Duck, you go on and do something nice for another duck, okay?" My breath stuck in my throat. As he started to drive off, I thanked him and he replied, "Oh, it's what I do. I work here." I suddenly caught on. My experiences Tuesday night in Crazy H's and Wednesday morning at the park pond were not two events, but one -- a story to comfort me and to teach me. I had been approached by God in a hard-life-faced waitress and in a toothless old man. I was as helpless against my mother's death as was the little duck against the fish hook. But that is when God provides. In our weakness, God's power shows through. In our weakness we are met unexpectedly by God who carries us through and saves us from our own powerlessness. A cup of coffee, a duck, and a toothless old man. God was there. And now there is a certain duck and a certain man who know better than before that we cannot save ourselves, but that we don't need to. "Oh, it's what I do," says God. "I work here."

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July 11 5:30pm Good Coffee (original Jaxons) All ladies and friends of Peace are invited to enjoy a meal togethera nice way to socialize and get to know each other better.

The Next WOWW Meeting will be on July 26th, 7pm at Janna Cannady's house The group will be reading "7:An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess" by Jen Hatmaker. At the July get-together the Introduction and first three "months" of the book will be discussed. Please bring a salad or dessert to share, and as always, your favorite beverage. All women of Peace Church, Peace Preschool and friends are cordially invited.

Do you like to go hiking? Do you know how to put together a resume? Do you like to knit or crochet? Play cards? Web design? Anything else? We, the people of Peace, have a wonderful opportunity to support the servants of the Border Servant Corps in An Opportunity the year to come. We have the opportunity to serve these blessings from God as a support team by providing them with a warm welwith the BSC come, place of worship (if they so choose), and opportunities to befriend them and help to make their stay in El Paso a wonderful experience. Through the support team we will meet and greet the Border Servants as they begin their time in El Paso, commission them in their service on behalf of Border Servant Corps, serve as "resources" for them--befriend, invite, include them in activities within the community. For example: Do you like to go hiking? Set a date, or a standing date, and invite anyone who would want to go with you to join you for the experience. Do you know how to put together a resume? Put together a "miniseminar" day and facilitate the learning experience for the Border Servants. Whatever it is that you like to do, more than likely you are not alone in that "like." Please take the time to pray about this ministry opportunity. If the Spirit moves you to participate then please provide the information requested to the office so that we can make it available to the Border Servants for the year as we seek to serve them as they serve the community of El Paso. ((Continued on next page)

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Border Servant Corp Upcoming Events

2013-2014 BSC Orientation Potlucks in El Paso Welcome the 2013-2014 BSC volunteers during their first week of orientation! Monday, August 19th at 6pm at Casa de Paz (1003 Upson Dr.) 2013-2014 BSC Commissioning Participate in blessing the 2013-2014 BSC volunteers as they begin their year of service. Sunday, September 8th at 9am at Peace, El Paso

Become a Resource for 2013-2014 BSC Service Year

Please consider using your gifts to support the volunteers during their year of service on the borderland, please send the following information to the Peace Lutheran Church office: Your name and contact information, with a photo of yourself Interests and community involvement BSC tenet that most draws you at this time (community, simplicity, social justice, spirituality) Example One: My simplicity practice is thrifty shopping; I really enjoy looking for creative ways to be a good steward of my resources! Use for BSC: On a $100 per month food budget, this skill would be greatly appreciated. Example Two: My spirituality practice is hiking; nature helps me to step out of my everyday life in the city and see God in simple ways. Use for BSC: Invite volunteers to contact you to join you on a hike. Example Three: My community practice is spending time in coffee shops; I enjoy the ways people can commune around food and drink. Use for BSC: Offer volunteers the opportunity to contact you if they would like to go to coffee to get out of the house, meet someone new, process their time on the borderland, etc.

Congratulations
Katia Krassin will be entering 3rd grade in the fall. She was most proud of her award for Outstanding Achievement in Math & Science and a ribbon she received from her GT instructor stating that "Katia had many wonderful and creative ideas to share with her peers."
Max Krassin had an evaluation done by EPISD to determine if he will have to be placed in a special needs classroom once he begins school due to the fact that he developed mild cerebral palsy from being in cardiac arrest for so long. He was observed by 6 people who included therapists, a diagnostician, and an instructor and they all determined that Max does not qualify for special needs. They all felt that Max is highly functional, intelligent and would benefit from being in a regular classroom with peers of his age group. We are so thankful & proud of Max's accomplishments considering his rough beginning in life. Austin Ferguson graduated from Franklin High School and will be attending El Paso Community College this fall. Congratulations!!!

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This is a painting painted by Mary Witty that was displayed in the Create-Art Exhibit on June 2, 2013.
Way to go Mary !!!!

Larue Duckett won a CAPPY, which is like a TONY award for High School. She received it for her role as Hard Hearted Hannah, the Car. Larue will continue with the drama club at Coronado this summer.

Logann Atkinson will be going to the second grade this fall at Polk. She is with her Grandma Margaret on a months vacation trip to Ireland.

Sydney Hundt - Graduated from Kindergarten at Peace Lutheran on June 8th. She will be going to Peace Lutheran Preschool this summer and taking piano lessons.

Abigail Hundt - Received a certificate for "Most Improved Handwriting" and was on the Honor Roll at Tippen Elementary School for 2nd grade. Abby will be attending Peace Lutheran Daycare this summer and taking piano lessons. She will be attending 3rd grade at Tippen this fall.

CALLING ALL CONFIRMATION STUDENTS & THEIR FAMILIES This is an announcement for all of the confirmation age (grades 6-8) youth and their families! On August 18th, after worship, we will have an informational and organizational meeting for any and all confirmation youth and their families. You will not want to miss this meeting as there are changes to the program for this year. In the meeting we will go over those and make sure everyone understands what is expected of them, myself included. Please plan on making it to this important meeting on August 18th immediately following worship. Thank you.

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A Place at the Table

one of my breakout sessions I was privileged to view the movie, A Place at the Table. Below is a synopsis of the movie from the films website. About The Film: 50 million people in the U.S.-one in four children-dont know where their next meal is coming from, despite our having the means to provide nutritious, affordable food for all Americans. Directors Kristi Jacobson and Lori Silverbush examine this issue through the lens of three people who are struggling with food insecurity: Barbie, a single Philadelphia mother who grew up in poverty and is trying to provide a better life for her two kids; Rosie, a Colorado fifth-grader who often has to depend on friends and neighbors to feed her and has trouble concentrating in school; and Tremonica, a Mississippi second-grader whose asthma and health issues are exacerbated by the largely empty calories her hardworking mother can afford. Their stories are interwoven with insights from experts including sociologist Janet Poppendieck, author Raj Patel and nutrition policy leader Marion Nestle; ordinary citizens like Pastor Bob Wilson and teachers Leslie Nichols and Odessa Cherry; and activists such as Witness to Hungers Mariana Chilton, Top Chefs Tom Colicchio and Oscar-winning actor Jeff Bridges. Ultimately, A Place at the Table shows us how hunger poses serious economic, social and cultural implications for our nation, and that it could be solved once and for all, if the American public decides-as they have in the past-that making healthy food available and affordable is in the best interest of us all. - See more at: http://www.magpictures.com/aplaceatthetable/#sthash.7xKOPl79.dpuf Needless to say this has been on my mind, on my heart, since I have seen it. If I have learned anything since arriving in El Paso, I have learned hunger is a major issue for a lot of people: elderly, families, children, etc Up till now, I have been speaking to members of Peace on a one to one basis about a vision I have, and think it is time I share it with all of you. So that you know, I have ordered a copy of this film, it became available today, June 25th 2013 as I write this letter to all of you. We will watch and discuss this film as part of our Faith Formation time this fall. As a primer, here is the vision I have: I can see us adopting a local elementary school: Polk, Tippen, Lundy are the three our preschool picks up from, and Guerrero is another near by elementary school. Perhaps we would consider adopting a school we know to be more economically challenged? Either which way we decide to go on that matter, we would adopt the school. By way of adoption we would plant, maintain, and harvest fresh fruits and vegetables. This garden or small farm could either be planted on the church property or perhaps we could talk to our Preschool about using some of the land next to the building there. I can see us planting in raised beds so that we can provide shade to the crops that need more shade, water could trickle through from the top to the bottoms so that we conserve the water used, the food grown would go to help keep kids and families fed in the community, and who knows, perhaps even keep kids in school. At this point, not to be too puny, this is a seed planting kind of article. I thought it important to share with you what is burning in my heart and we will see where God takes it and perhaps, us as we discuss and learn about hunger in our community and what we can do to address it. Thanks for reading. Peace, Pr. Jon
One benefit of using your newsletter This past May at the Synod Assembly, in

Forty-nine million people in the U.S., which includes one out of four children, don't know where their next meal is coming from.

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Members Reflections on Christianity for the Rest of Us

An old truth came alive in a new way Dianas words summarize it: are we tourists or pilgrims? Remember when Jesus heals the paralytic? They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; but finding no way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof, and let him down with his bed through the tiles I think the men were pilgrims exploring new territory, believing Jesus could heal their friend, and striking out to try. The crowd might have been touristsmaybe simply watching. They also observed a miracle, but was that the same? Observing or being part of the miracle? Which experience is the one God has in mind for us? Ive spend a lot of my life being a tourist. Singing my favorite hymns stirs up my faith. Learning a bit more through Bible Study helps steady the foundation of my faith. Knowing my offerings are used to help others and spread Gods Word is an expression of my faith. .. a tourist. a part of the crowd. In the story, the crowd was actually in the way! Is that me? In all the disciplines, theres a way to be tourist; and a way to be a pilgrim. Do I simply smile and say a quick hello to others; or do really listen, get to know, and support? Do I look for new truths, new ways, adjust to the times and the place; or am I stuck in my old thoughts and habits? Do I stick to the tourist path, and only offer simple words to show Im a Christian; or do I venture down a new path, taking a chance, and share things deeply personal? Am I just courteous, trying to do the Christian thing, hiding my discomfort with someone different than me; or can I truly recognize that they too were made in His image? I have a long way to go to become a pilgrim. Will you go with me? Well jump off the air conditioned bus, and walk our way. Walk His way! A tourist gets only a glimpse of the world. As pilgrims, well be fully immersed in the beauty of His creation! Fred Lenhart I was reading some reviews for the book and the one that caught my attention was a negative review written by a Pastor. Two things he said stood out to me. He says the churches this author is talking about apparently never have to worry about declining budgets or loss of membership. He also says I have no idea whether or not implementing these 10 sign post practices will turn around a declining congregation to spiritual and numeric growth. Coming from a church that closed its doors because of both a declining budget and loss of membership taught me several things, but at first I struggled with the idea of feeling like we had failed in attempting to do more to save the church, in other words just surrendering. But the reality in a situation like that is you reach a point where there is no more you can do. You dont let it get you down you move on to find a new church community such as we did here at Peace. Now Peace has had financial struggles and membership decline, but we continue to move forward and together work towards finding solutions and ways to keep our church community thriving. Maybe the author doesnt point out struggles with budgets and membership decline in the church, but she does surely demonstrate examples of success and striving that the churches she visited have experienced. If anything her conversation with her audience through reading this book elicits some positive guidance to members of churches and Pastors on how to take these examples and execute them in their church community. The main thing I got out of being in a book group was fellowship. This experience allowed me the opportunity to get to know members of the church more closely. I think we had very positive discussions in our group sessions and learned through our conversations that it is always important to maintain the principles of our faith as we accept other people who may or may not have the same values or same beliefs. Id like to quote Diana Butler Bass from p.79 Hospitality is the creation of free space where strangers become friends. Hospitality is not to change people but to offer them space where change can take place. Sandra Krassin

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Reflections continued
In each of the positive "signposts", our group examined positive ways that Peace Lutheran Church practices each discipline, but more importantly we brainstormed potential ways that we could improve in each category. Moreover, our group summed up the rest of the book this way: The journey is about going from tourist to pilgrim (a tourist experiences something new; a pilgrim becomes something new). A PILGRIM embarks on a quest for some end that is considered SACRED. By focusing on the ten signposts, we can TRANSFORM individuals, congregations, and the world. Each member of our group grew together in spirit, intimacy, and in thinking about being better servants to our church and to our community. It was a very positive experience. Debbie and Hector Gutierrez

And Pastor Jons Comments

Intimacy in relationships, growing in Spirit and in the Word, and Service to others.These were the top three learnings/themes to come out of our last large group celebration of Diana Butler Basss book, Christianity for the Rest of Us. I, for one, found her writing, and our conversations surround her writing, to be quite inspirational. I want to thank all of you for participating in the small groups: for sharing of yourselves and allowing yourselves to be vulnerable with one another, for your honest critiques of Peace and for offering suggestions as to how we can serve Christ to the fullest, for laughing with one another, listening and responding to each other, for lifting up the light of hope and faith we all share and all desire to share. I want to thank you for all these and so much more. I also want to let you know that as a result of our time spent in reading and conversation the Women of Wine and Word or WOWW has started, a mens poker night is beginning, families have been asking me to help them research how they can be more involved in various ministries God is laying on their heart, plans are being made and steps are being taken to begin weekday/night bible study opportunities, and so much more. Rest assured, I dont want for this spring to have been a great exercise in small group discussion and leave the learnings from these discussions on the way side. I will be following up on the information you have shared with me, with one another, so that we can deepen our understanding of who God is calling us to be in this time and for this community. Thank you again for being the gifted people of faith that you are and for answering Gods calling!

I know this is an exceptionally early announcement, and at the same time, it cant hurt to start telling folks now. On September 8th we will have a congregational BBQ celebration! Why? Good question! The answer is quite simple: so that we can spend time together in fellowship and fun! Look for more information coming up in the bulletins and subsequent newsletters and emails as to sign ups for what to bring. For now, just mark your calendars and put on your party hatsSeptember 8 is going to be a great day! (FYIno Sunday Faith Formation that day, it will start the following Sunday)

Congregational BBQ Celebration

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Ryan Steinmetz (BSC director 2008-2013) Bids Farewell to BSC

It has been almost 12 years since I received a call from Dot Quaintance inviting me to join this group of committed, service-minded young people on the border. That call was a life-changing call that so many people have come to this place to answer. Since then, I have been involved with Border Servant Corps in varying capacities. As a BSC volunteer, I served as an English teacher and homework tutor at La Casa Domestic Violence Shelter. I then served as a recruitment presenter, a board member, an Assistant Director under Dick Schriver (for whom I am grateful for his mentorship over the years) and eventually Director. As I look back to that time in 2001 when I came down here to serve, I see how much the BSC has shaped me and shaped my lifes direction. Thats what happens so often to BSC volunteers. They come down to change the world and wind up being changed themselves, touched by so many from this church and from the border community. I cant tell you how thankful I am to the congregation of Peace Lutheran for helping make this happen. At a recent transition team cottage meeting, Grady McCullough talked with fervent passion about the need for the church to go beyond the walls of the church structure. The people of Gods church need to be present in service to Gods world just as much as they need to come together in fellowship and worship on Sunday mornings. Your ministry, known as Border Servant Corps, answers that call. And we invite you to continue to be a part of this ministry, not only in the much appreciated donations of funds and donation items for our volunteers serving in the community, but also through participation on our board or volunteer support committees, or through service opportunities through our Fellowship Through Service program in which members of this and other local congregations can connect with the many community organizations with whom BSC partners. We, again, are so appreciative for this opportunity that has brought over a hundred volunteers to serve this region; we hope to continue to provide meaningful ways to channel peoples gifts and service interests bringing people together in service for years to come. As I leave my directors position and pursue other endeavors, I remain an active member of Peace Lutheran and a staunch supporter of Border Servant Corps mission in the community. I am honored to have served such a life-changing ministry, and I look forward to its continued journey in the hands of Kari Lenander and its future leadership. Vayan con Dios.

Border Servant Corps Welcome Kari Lenander as Interim Director

Since 2008, I have had the pleasure of working and serving with Ryan Steinmetz (BSC director 20082013); first as a volunteer for two years, then as a program coordinator for Border Servant Corps. Ryan has been a wonderful example of servant leadership and I have been blessed to watch as he has been able to expand the ministry and vision of Border Servant Corps, growing the capacity of the yearlong volunteer program and placement agencies, visioning and implementing a summer internship program, adding a border immersion program, and so much more. His commitment to this ministry and this region has been an inspiration and I am so thankful for the ways he has served, and will continue to serve. I wish him the best as he steps into his new role of service in the region. Before Border Servant Corps, I grew up in the Midwest and attended college at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD where I received a degree in Business / Communications. During my BSC years, 2008-2010, I served as the Border Immersion program coordinator at Iglesia Luterana Cristo Rey in El Paso, TX. I returned to the border in 2011 to become the program coordinator for Border Servant Corps, assisting to expand the program, working with those who strive for peace and justice on the borderland. In May 2013, I was named interim executive director and I look forward to continuing the work of Border Servant Corps. One of the best parts of Border Servant Corps is watching people fall in love with the borderland; its unique combination of people, cultures, and political and physical landscape takes time for most to accept, let alone appreciate and enjoy. Yet, I have seen time and again how one story, one face, one hard-hitting fact has changed perspectives, attitudes, and lives for the better. Border Servant Corps seeks to become a bridge between worlds, which changes lives when we truly come to see the other. I have enjoyed seeing the growth of ministry in the region and I look forward to the ways we can continue to walk in service and continue to change.

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Expect A Phone Call

The title alone has probably raised the blood pressure for a few of us. First: calm down. Second: let me explain. Confirmation is a time, we as a community of faith, have set aside for instruction in the Christian faith in preparation for young people to make a commitment to serving Jesus with the entirety of their lives. Whether that is through direct service to the Church of Jesus Christ or through the work they do in the world where God places them, it matters not. When a person stands up and makes a commitment to serving Jesus, it is wherever they are, whenever they are there, for however long they are there. Our faith goes with us, is who we are as followers of Jesus. In this time of preparation, as these young people, dialogue/struggle to figure out who they are in light of Gods promises and calling on their life, it is important for us as a community to support them through any and all means available to us. One of these means of support is through the wisdom we have as a gathering of people. Theology, truth about who God is and what God is doing in the world in and through us, cannot be done in a vacuumthat is why we gather to discern what and where God is leading us to. Which leads me to this: some of you should expect a phone call. When you receive this phone call, it will be from me, you should expect I will be asking you to be a mentor for a confirmation young person and their family. You can do anything from sending them a birthday, Christmas and Easter card, or have them over for dinner once a monththe important thing will be to form a relationship of trust, friendship, and support so that together we can live into the promise we made to these families to help nurture them in their life of faith. Begin praying about it and I will be making some phone calls. Just so that we are all clearthere are not enough confirmation young people so that everyone in the congregation will have a person to mentorso if you dont get called this time dont worrythere will be more opportunities as we continue in our relationship together.

Border Servant Corps

Summer has arrived! And for Border Servant Corps that means summer camps, summer garden crops, and the continuation of doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly on the U.S./Mxico border. Summer also means the welcoming of summer interns, the conclusion of the 20122013 service year, and the beginning of the 2013-2014 service year. This year, we have welcomed four BSC summer interns; we will say goodbye to 15 volunteers that have dedicated one to two years of their lives to serve this region; and greet the 17 to 19 volunteers that will join us for the next service year .As we look forward to this new year, we have many ways you can become involved with BSC: New El Paso House for 2013-2014 Service Year! Border Servant Corps is happy to announce we will have 8 volunteers in El Paso for the 2013-2014 service year. We are looking forward to this growth, but need your assistance as we seek additional housing options! Specs: $750 (or less) per month; 4+ bedrooms; Available anytime from July 1st-August 1st; North of I-10; Within a few miles radius of YWCA Sara McKnight Transitional Living Center (3700 Alturo Blvd El Paso, TX 79930), Diocesan Migrant & Refugee Services (2400 E Yandell Dr, El Paso, TX 79903), and Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center (1500 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902). We welcome any assistance you, or those you know, could provide. Get Involved! BSC is seeking new Support Committee members. The Support Committees in each city work closely with one volunteer house to welcome and help them connect in this new place they are serving. Thrivent Choice Dollars. The Thrivent Choice program allows members to recommend where some of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans' charitable outreach funds are allocated by directing Choice DollarsSM. BSC is able to accept these donations through Peace Lutheran Church (Las Cruces, NM). In order for these amounts to be designated to BSC, donors must send the amount to kari.bsc@gmail.com every time a donation is made. Due

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to financial privacy laws, if the amount is not received from the donor, Peace is unable to designate the funds to BSC. For more information about how to donate, please contact kari.bsc@gmail.com. Keep BSC in Your Prayers. Each year, we have a new group of volunteers working on the borderland. For many of them, this is their first long-term experience working in border communities or with the border altogether. Your prayers and words of encouragement offer tremendous support for volunteers who are working with domestic violence victims, families who have been separated due to immigration issues, homeless children and adults, and many others who have been marginalized by society. It is difficult work, especially far from home. Please feel free to write notes, send care packages, etc. to our volunteers to support them on their BSC journey. Upcoming events: BSC Summer Intern Recognition in El Paso. Sunday, July 21st at 11:00am at Iglesia Luterana Cristo Rey (1010 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902). BSC Recognition in Las Cruces. Sunday, July 28th at 9:00am at Peace Lutheran Church (1701 E. Missouri Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001). BSC Farewell in El Paso. Sunday, August 4th at 11:00am at Cristo Rey (1010 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902). Gratefulness; more than you know: This year, Border Servant Corps has hosted five immersion groups from all around the country who have traveled to learn about the U.S./Mxico border. Their experiences throughout their time on the border are based around education, openness, and faithfulness. Peace Lutheran Church (Las Cruces, NM) has been instrumental in providing hospitality of spirit and space. The generous nature with which this church serves the border region, and those who visit it, is a great evangelistic ministry which bridges the church and the world. Peace is becoming known as a congregation that is integrally involved with generous giving, outreach to the community, and a healthy congregation that looks within and beyond its walls to support others. Thank you for the community you are, and have expressed, through your thoughts, words, and deeds. May God continue to bless this congregation and its ministry as it seeks to serve Gods community in all places.

Border Servant Corps seeks to provide an opportunity for volunteers to work for justice, serve their neighbor, and walk humbly with their God. This month, Raul Quezada (BSC volunteer at CAF, 2012-2013) share his reflection about life on the border
My name is Raul Quezada. I'm 21 years old and I am Border Servant Corps volunteer. I migrated to the U.S.A. when I was 10; it was the decision of my parents to send me to another country to get a better life and education. I came to this country without papers, but for a ten-year-old boy, it was something exciting to be in the U.S. I thought it would be just like the movies, you know? But after living with my aunt, away from my family, I began to miss my mother and my brothers. Being separated from my family for a year was a horrible thing; I felt a hole in my heart and because I could not understand exactly why I could not go with them, it was frustrating. After a year, my family crossed the U.S. I thought everything would be fine since my family was with me, but it was not so. My father was abusive and would beat my mom; he threatened to call Border Patrol if we said something to someone. Also, my mother was afraid of the police because she was in fear of deportation. The abuse continued for three years. The only way out for me and my brothers was being in school; we hated returning home and receiving that abuse. Until one day my father beat my mother so much that I decided to talk to the police. The police helped us and took us to a domestic violence shelter, where they helped us get a work permit
(Continued on page 14)

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Greetings and Salutations! The Wired Word is a bible study subscription I have as part of my study, thinking, and devotional life. I think it is great resource for me in terms of reflecting theologically upon the events of the world. I also have this subscription, to be quite honest, if I was in a pinch for time I would be able to have something for discussion with the adults on Sunday morning. In light of our discussion of the book Christianity For The Rest of Us by Diana Butler Bass and the desire for to continue in small groups, the desire for bible study, and an opportunity for us to be in bible study I thought I would start sharing one of the Wired Word studies with us each month. We can discuss it in our families, during our fellowship time after worship, with our friends and/or neighbors, groups on Facebook, in small groups or in whatever way the Spirit moves us. I thought it would be a good conversation starter for us and see where it leads us.

The Secrets of a 74-Year-Marriage

The Wired Word for the Week of June 23, 2013

In the News
A couple of celebrities were sitting on the front row of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on Sunday, June 16. They weren't movie stars, nor were they Washington politicians. Instead, they were Elizabeth and Jack Holly, who are about to celebrate their 74th wedding anniversary. "Congratulations. That ... is ... amazing," said one young couple to the 94-year-olds. The Hollys have an impressive marital track record, as do a number of their offspring. Their son William just celebrated his 50th anniversary, and their daughter Anna recently made it to her 27th. A couple of grandchildren are about to celebrate their 25th and 26th anniversaries. The Hollys were at the National Shrine for its "Jubilarian Mass," which honored about 600 couples who were celebrating 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 or more years of wedded life. More than 850 couples registered to have their anniversaries recognized, including 11 couples who had made it past the threshold of 70 years. These 850 couples totaled 39,417 years of marriage. The Catholics of Washington, D.C., are not alone in amassing such a remarkable number. In virtually every congregation in the United States, there are couples with remarkable marital accomplishments. These unions are rarely without stress and strain, and many have overcome obstacles of illness, loss and unfaithfulness. But the total years of marriage at most churches is amazing -- and inspiring. So what are the secrets of a 74-year-marriage? "We kept busy," said Elizabeth Holly to The Washington Post. "You get home. You make supper. You go to bed." "We weren't rich people," she added. "All you got to do is act right. Be right. It ain't hard." The Hollys admitted that the toughest part of their marriage was raising children -- they gave birth to nine and lost three. But their commitment to the covenant of marriage has been good for their children, as is true for most children today. Two-parent households have considerable advantages in sharing the emotional load (and joy) of raising children. But, as reported in USA Today, there is also the matter of economics, which is a serious consideration in creating a healthy family. According to a recent Census report, nearly 40 percent of single-parent households were under the poverty line in 2010, compared with just 10 percent of married family households. The importance of marriage to children, in terms of emotional and economic security, is something that can be affirmed by conservatives and liberals alike. With no disrespect to the 43 percent of Americans who are single, it is clear that marriage is good for both adults and children. The secrets of a 74-year-marriage are keeping busy and acting right, as Elizabeth Holly said, but also focusing on the welfare of your spouse and your children. Healthy marriages put family-interest ahead of self-interest, and are grounded in the kind of sacrificial love that seeks first the welfare of others. Since the earliest days of the church, Christians have encouraged husbands and wives to provide for one another, to devote themselves to prayer and to do what they can to stay together and even make each other holy. Today, however, marriage is on a sharp decline in the United States. Fifty years ago, about three-quarters of American adults 18 and older were married, while today only 52 percent are. More men and women are living as singles -- even, at times, while having children -- a state of affairs that can ultimately harm children, making them much more likely to live in poverty. Fortunately, two-thirds of Americans are upbeat about the future of marriage and family, according to the Pew Research Center, and 46 percent of unmarried Americans say they want to get married. This is a desire worth

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pursuing, as we start the next 39,417 years. More on this story can be found at these links: Md. Couple's Marriage Has Stood Test of Time, If Not Memory, The Washington Post Renewal of Marriage Vows at 2013 Jubilarian Mass, Facebook Column: Wedding Days Are Losing Their Way, USA Today The Decline of Marriage and Rise of New Families, Pew Social Trends

The Big Questions

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. What qualities do you see in a husband and wife who remain married for 74 years? How do couples handle the stress and strain of life, and overcome obstacles of illness, loss and unfaithfullness? Should couples remain married for the benefit of their children? Why or why not? From an economic point of view, why should husbands and wives stay together? Why should couples even marry in the first place? What are the benefits of two-parent families? When should other factors take precedence? Where do you see sacrificial love at work in healthy marriages? Give examples. Are you optimistic or pessimistic about the future of marriage? Explain.

Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope

Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Genesis 2:24 Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. (For context, read 2:18-25.) In the story of creation, God forms animals and birds and brings them to the man he has created. The man gives names to the cattle, birds and animals of the field, but none of them is found to be suitable as a partner for the man. So God causes the man to go to sleep, and he takes one of his ribs. God makes the rib into a woman and brings her to the man. The man describes her as "bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh" (v. 23). Questions: Why is a woman especially suitable to be a man's partner? What is the significance of the phrase "bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh" (v. 23)? Why is it important, emotionally and spiritually, for a man to leave his parents and cling to his wife? Exodus 20:14 You shall not commit adultery. (For context, read 20:1-17.) The Ten Commandments are given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The first set concerns the relationship between humans and God, and the remaining group concerns relationships between humans. The prohibition of adultery lies between "you shall not murder" (v. 13) and "you shall not steal" (v. 15). Questions: Why is God concerned about adultery? What kind of damage is done when the covenant of marriage is broken? Who are the victims? Mark 10:9 Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. (For context, read 10:1-16.) Some Pharisees test Jesus by asking him if it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife. Jesus answers by asking them about Moses, who allowed divorce because of their "hardness of heart" (v. 5). But Jesus insists that "from the beginning of creation, 'God made them male and female'" (v. 6), and reaffirms that God's intention is for them to be "one flesh" (v. 8). Concerned for both the women and the children who are hurt by divorce, Jesus stresses the permanence of marriage and then says "let the little children come to me" (v. 14). Questions: Are there cases today where divorce should be allowed because of "hardness of heart"? When is it impossible for husbands and wives to remain "one flesh"? How should the concern of Jesus for vulnerable women and children be demonstrated today, especially when it comes to divorce? 1 Corinthians 7:4 For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does; likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. (For context, read 7:1-16). In his directions on marriage, the apostle Paul stresses the sense of balance that is created in a marriage, with husbands and wives giving each other "conjugal rights" (v. 3). His focus is on a mutuality of authority that exists

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when two people become one flesh. Paul encourages husbands and wives to provide for one another, to devote themselves to prayer and to do what they can to stay together and even make each other holy (vv. 5, 10-16). Questions: In marriage, where do you see a focus not on self-satisfaction, but on serving someone or something that is bigger than yourself? How is a sense of balance and mutuality of authority experienced in a healthy marriage? Give examples. Hebrews 13:4 Let marriage be held in honor by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge fornicators and adulterers. (For context, read 13:1-6). The letter to the Hebrews speaks of service that is pleasing to God, including mutual love, hospitality to strangers and remembering those who are imprisoned. The writer then encourages his audience to hold marriage in honor, and concludes by encouraging them to keep their lives "free from the love of money" (v. 5). Questions: What are the particular qualities of marriage that are valued by God? Why is judgment predicted for "fornicators and adulterers"? What is the significance of this list of pleasing actions for today?

For Further Discussion

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. What factors have led to a decline in marriage over the past 50 years, and what can be done to reverse this trend? In your opinion, what are the actions and attitudes that create long and happy marriages? What role should the church play in supporting couples in their marriages? If you are married, who are your role models and accountability partners as you seek to keep your vows? What problems would you encounter without them? If you are unmarried, whom do you seek to emulate or to take advice from in your considerations of marriage? What are the top areas that you think should be covered in premarital counseling today? The "marriage equality" movement is clearly advancing across the country. What impact, if any, do you think same-sex marriage will have on heterosexual marriage?

Responding to the News

Reflect on the promises that stand at the center of every healthy marriage. If you are married, think about the vows you have made to your spouse. If you are single, ponder the importance of the commitments you have made to family members and friends. Reach out to someone who is struggling with promise-keeping, and offer them your support and encouragement.

My name is Raul Quezada continued from page 11

for the abuse we went through. My mother found a job and then we moved to a house in Las Cruces. I got involved with different programs as a volunteer and I was a leader with youth and children in my church to give back to my community that has given me everything. Now my family is in the process of obtaining permanent residency, but it has been a long and very overwhelming journey. I really do not want to feel that feeling of not having my mom and my brothers beside me again. Honestly, I know how those families that have been separated feel. Unfortunately, many of them have to go through a situation similar to my family's to get a U-Visa in order to fix their status. All the help I received from my community and volunteers over past year with BSC has helped me arrive where I am now. Working with CAF has taught me how to work with families similar to mine. This year was full of new experiences for me; I had lived here on the border for several years, but now I can see it differently through the eyes of my fellow BSC volunteers and it has been a great thing. This year will stay with me for the rest of my life; the good and bad experiences made me grow a lot. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for me.

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Thoughts to Share by Pastor Jon...In the Meantime

This was one of my daily devotions recently from a site called In the Meantime I have shared things from there with you in previous months. I thought this was absolutely breathtaking and wanted to give you a chance to read it too. Please enjoy Read Louisa Fletchers wonderful poem The Land of Beginning Again and then ask yourself if this is heaven. Heaven not as some distant and cloud-filled paradise but rather that place where all hurts are mended, all grief comforted, all regrets repaired, all insults undone, all relationships restored. In painting a picture that reminds me a bit of C. S. Lewis Narnia, Fletcher reminds us that life both here and in the world to come is about relationships. And she reminds us that forgiveness which is, in fact, releasing a claim on another so as to begin again is the secret ingredient of life. But then ask yourself another question. Must we wait for the world to come to enter into the land of beginning again? Might church be that as well, at least a foretaste and perhaps even more? What would it take? What would we have to do to make our faith community the place where we are candid about our brokenness, eager for restoration, and willing to risk ourselves in love, mercy, and forgiveness that we might live even here, even now in the land of beginning again.

The Land of Beginning Again

I wish that there were some wonderful place In the Land of Beginning Again. Where all our mistakes and all our heartaches And all of our poor selfish grief Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door and never put on again. I wish we could come on it all unaware, Like the hunter who finds a lost trail; And I wish that the one whom our blindness had done The greatest injustice of all Could be there at the gates like an old friend that waits For the comrade hes gladdest to hail. We would find all the things we intended to do But forgot, and remembered too late, Little praises unspoken, little promises broken, And all the thousand and one Little duties neglected that might have perfected The day for one less fortunate. It wouldnt be possible not to be kind In the Land of Beginning Again, And the ones we misjudged and the ones whom we grudged their moments of victory here, Would find in the grasp of our loving hand-clasp More than penitent lips could explain So I wish that there were some wonderful place Called the Land of Beginning Again, Where all our mistakes and all our heartaches, And all of our poor selfish grief Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door And never put on again.

P e a c e L u t h e r a n C h u r c h 16 9 9 B e lv i d e r e E l P a s o , T X

Pastor Jon Hundt phone 915.585.6202 (h) peacepastorjon@att.net Church Office phone 915.594.1383

You are Cordially Invited to Worship with us at Peace Worship Service every Sunday at 9am

Were on the Web: peacelutheranelp.org Were on Facebook: Peace Lutheran Church, El Paso, Texas

Peace Lutheran Church Has Been Serving the West Side Of El Paso Since 1983
Peace celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2008. We are a medium-sized growing congregation with three core ministries: worship, growth in discipleship, and service in and to the community. Peace uses a variety of worship services, with music from multiple sources. Each worship service is structured to reflect the Biblical emphasis for that Sunday. Jesus calls his followers to be disciples. We take that call seriously, seeking to grow in our faith through study opportunities and practicing our faith in our daily lives. Peaces largest ministry in the community is its preschool, where we seek to get children started on the right path educationally, socially and spiritually. We are Mission Partners with Iglesia Luterana Cristo Rey in downtown El Paso, giving and receiving tools and encouragement for ministry. Through Border Interfaith, we partner with other faith institutions to improve the quality of life in El Paso Core Beliefs Jesus Christ, God in the flesh, came to give the gift of peace: peace with God, peace with our selves, and peace in the world. We are called to live and share that gift until the whole world comes to know that peace.

We are a village. Join us!