For the week of April 17
Remember in Prayer
Brett M(Wirth/Smith) ICU
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
American Cancer Society
Relay for Life
May 16, 2026 10 am - 10 pm
the Relay for Life event raised money and awareness for the American Cancer society’s mission to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer
Immanuel Lutheran has had a team in this event for 40 ears, raising over $200,000.
Each team member is asked to reaise at least $100 and to walk one hour. Besides raising money the Relay for Life honors those who are currently fighting cancer, cancer survivors, caregivers, and those who have succumbed to cancer.
If you would like to join our team or donate, please contact Karen Alderson at 360.508.1051
Book Club
A good group met on April 1st to discuss BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, by Robin Wall Kimmerer Shattuck. The author is native and we talked about her beliefs and traditions of respecting our plants and earth. It is very rich to read a book together and inevitably learn about each other in our discussions. Our next meeting will be on Wednesday, May 6 and we will discuss THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY by Amor Towles. The book is described as a "real joyride."
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
For the week of April 10
Remember in Prayer
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Book Club
A good group met on March 4 to discuss THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE, written by Jessica Shattuck. We all found it a good read. Slow starter, but definitely worth forging ahead. It was set in the WW2 time frame and followed 3 women who were impacted by the existence of the Nazi regime. Our next meeting will be April 1 and we will discuss
BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
For the week of April 3
Remember in Prayer
Kevin G Heart Concerns
Lynn C Medical Answers
Tom F Health Concerns
Sheryl R Health Concerns
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
A Letter from Council
We, your Church Council team, want to take a moment to acknowledge what many of us are feeling.
This has been a long process, and we know there was real excitement and hope around last weekend. It’s okay to feel disappointed.
But we also want us to pause and recognize something just as real.
What we saw last weekend wasn’t just about two potential pastors. It was a reflection of this congregation.
We saw a full room. We saw families. We saw kids. We saw energy, connection, and genuine joy in being together. That didn’t come from outside—it came from all of you.
This church is already a place that is welcoming, engaged, and deeply committed to one another and to the community around us. The strength of our ministries, the care people show up with, and the way we support each other—those things are not dependent on one moment or one outcome.
So while this wasn’t the result we hoped for, it doesn’t take away what we’ve built. If anything, it reminds us of what’s possible.
As we enter the call process again, we encourage the congregation to hold the call committee in prayer as they continue this important work. In the meantime, let’s carry that same spirit forward—continuing to be a welcoming, engaged, and caring community.
Blessings,
Immanuel Church Council-
Trish Geist, Al Blouin, Tracy Canfield, Fred DenBeste, Erica Dyeson, Stephen Geringer, Arnie Guenther, Scott Hess, Diane Jewell, Krysi Boyer
Easter Fruit & Pastry Potluck
On Easter Sunday, we will share in our annual Easters Fruit & Pastry Potluck after the worship service. Everyone is asked to bring either their favorite pastry or fruit to share with one another during the fellowship time .
Easter Memorial Garden
If you would like to participate, spring flowers and plants should be at church by
Good Friday morning. NO LILLIES PLEASE If your contribution is in memory of someone please let Barbara know by Monday March 30th.
Easter Egg Hunt
We will host our annual Easter Egg Hunt this year along with the Fruit & Pastry Potluck.
We are looking for donations of candy or toys to fit in a plastic egg. If you are willing to help, please bring your donations to church by this Sunday so the eggs can be stuffed.
Please see Taylor Little if you have any questions.
Book Club
A good group met on March 4 to discuss THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE, written by Jessica Shattuck. We all found it a good read. Slow starter, but definitely worth forging ahead. It was set in the WW2 time frame and followed 3 women who were impacted by the existence of the Nazi regime. Our next meeting will be April 1 and we will discuss
BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
For the week of March 27
Remember in Prayer
Kevin G Heart Concerns
Lynn C Medical Answers
Tom F Health Concerns
Sheryl R Health Concerns
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
A Letter from Council
We, your Church Council team, want to take a moment to acknowledge what many of us are feeling.
This has been a long process, and we know there was real excitement and hope around last weekend. It’s okay to feel disappointed.
But we also want us to pause and recognize something just as real.
What we saw last weekend wasn’t just about two potential pastors. It was a reflection of this congregation.
We saw a full room. We saw families. We saw kids. We saw energy, connection, and genuine joy in being together. That didn’t come from outside—it came from all of you.
This church is already a place that is welcoming, engaged, and deeply committed to one another and to the community around us. The strength of our ministries, the care people show up with, and the way we support each other—those things are not dependent on one moment or one outcome.
So while this wasn’t the result we hoped for, it doesn’t take away what we’ve built. If anything, it reminds us of what’s possible.
As we enter the call process again, we encourage the congregation to hold the call committee in prayer as they continue this important work. In the meantime, let’s carry that same spirit forward—continuing to be a welcoming, engaged, and caring community.
Blessings,
Immanuel Church Council-
Trish Geist, Al Blouin, Tracy Canfield, Fred DenBeste, Erica Dyeson, Stephen Geringer, Arnie Guenther, Scott Hess, Diane Jewell, Krysi Boyer
Easter Fruit & Pastry Potluck
On Easter Sunday, we will share in our annual Easters Fruit & Pastry Potluck after the worship service. Everyone is asked to bring either their favorite pastry or fruit to share with one another during the fellowship time .
Easter Memorial Garden
If you would like to participate, spring flowers and plants should be at church by
Good Friday morning. NO LILLIES PLEASE If your contribution is in memory of someone please let Barbara know by Monday March 30th.
Easter Egg Hunt
We will host our annual Easter Egg Hunt this year along with the Fruit & Pastry Potluck.
We are looking for donations of candy or toys to fit in a plastic egg. If you are willing to help, please bring your donations to church by this Sunday so the eggs can be stuffed.
Please see Taylor Little if you have any questions.
Book Club
A good group met on March 4 to discuss THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE, written by Jessica Shattuck. We all found it a good read. Slow starter, but definitely worth forging ahead. It was set in the WW2 time frame and followed 3 women who were impacted by the existence of the Nazi regime. Our next meeting will be April 1 and we will discuss
BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
For the week of March 20
Remember in Prayer
Kevin G Heart Surgery
Lynn C Medical Answers
Tom F Health Concerns
Sheryl R Health Concerns
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Special Congregational Meeting
The Special Congregational Meeting has been cancelled as the Johnson’s have withdrawn their names from the call process.
Please keep Joe and Amanda, as well as the call committee, in your thoughts and prayers. We are grateful for the committee’s dedication and the excellent candidates they have brought forward. We trust that God will continue to guide us as we move ahead in this process.
Book Club
A good group met on March 4 to discuss THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE, written by Jessica Shattuck. We all found it a good read. Slow starter, but definitely worth forging ahead. It was set in the WW2 time frame and followed 3 women who were impacted by the existence of the Nazi regime. Our next meeting will be April 1 and we will discuss
BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
Easter Fruit & Pastry Potluck
On Easter Sunday, we will share in our annual Easters Fruit & Pastry Potluck after the worship service. Everyone is asked to bring either their favorite pastry or fruit to share with one another during the fellowship time .
Easter Memorial Garden
If you would like to participate, spring flowers and plants should be at church by
Good Friday morning. NO LILLIES PLEASE If your contribution is in memory of someone please let Barbara know by Monday March 30th.
For the week of March 13
Remember in Prayer
Gitti (Guenthers) Cornea Transplant Surgery
Lynn C Medical Answers
Tom F Health Concerns
Sheryl R Health Concerns
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Ministerial Candidates Visit
Please make plans to be at church on Sunday March 15 to meet our Ministerial Candidates
Pastor Joe and Pastor Amanda Johnson.
We will have a “Meet and Greet” with a question and answer session at 9:00 am before our worship service. They will also stay for the Pi€ day event after service to mix and mingle one on one.
Special Congregational Meeting
The council of Immanuel is calling a Special Congregational meeting on
Sunday March 22, 2026.
The purpose will be to vote on calling Pastor’s Joe and Amanda Johnson and the corresponding Salary package.
The meeting will be held immediately after the worship service. If you are a voting member of Immanuel, please make every effort to attend so your voice is heard and to ensure that there is a quorum.
Book Club
A good group met on March 4 to discuss THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE, written by Jessica Shattuck. We all found it a good read. Slow starter, but definitely worth forging ahead. It was set in the WW2 time frame and followed 3 women who were impacted by the existence of the Nazi regime. Our next meeting will be April 1 and we will discuss
BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
For the week of March 6
Remember in Prayer
Lynn C Medical Answers
Tom F Health Concerns
Sheryl R Health Concerns
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Ministerial Candidates Visit
Please make plans to be at church on Sunday March 15 to meet our Ministerial Candidates
Pastor Joe and Pastor Amanda Johnson.
We will have a “Meet and Greet” with a question and answer session at 9:00 am before our worship service. They will also stay for the Pi€ day event after service to mix and mingle one on one.
Special Congregational Meeting
The council of Immanuel is calling a Special Congregational meeting on
Sunday March 22, 2026.
The purpose will be to vote on calling Pastor’s Joe and Amanda Johnson and the corresponding Salary package.
The meeting will be held immediately after the worship service. If you are a voting member of Immanuel, please make every effort to attend so your voice is heard and to ensure that there is a quorum.
Book Club
A good group met on March 4 to discuss THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE, written by Jessica Shattuck. We all found it a good read. Slow starter, but definitely worth forging ahead. It was set in the WW2 time frame and followed 3 women who were impacted by the existence of the Nazi regime. Our next meeting will be April 1 and we will discuss
BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
For the week of February 27
Remember in Prayer
Lynn C Medical Answers
Tom F Health Concerns
Sheryl R Health Concerns
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Ministerial Candidates Visit
Please make plans to be at church on Sunday March 15 to meet our Ministerial Candidates
Pastor Joe and Pastor Amanda Johnson.
We will have a “Meet and Greet” with a question and answer session at 9:00 am before our worship service. They will also stay for the Pi€ day event after service to mix and mingle one on one.
Book Club
We met on February 4th to discuss BLACK CAKE, written by Charmaine Wilkerson. Interesting book with intriguing characters who met many obstacles on their life path. I personally got lost and needed to map out characters and where they fit in the story. However, most of the other readers recommend this book. So, it’s a👍.
New book is THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE, by Jessica Shattuck.
Discussion on March 4th. Pick up a book and join us.
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
For the week of February 20
Remember in Prayer
Lynn C Medical Answers
Tom F Health Concerns
Sheryl R Health Concerns
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Call Committee Final Report
A Bold Step Forward for Immanuel Lutheran
We are thrilled to announce that the Church Council has unanimously approved the Call Committee’s recommendation to invite Pastors Joe and Amanda Johnson to visit our congregation. This is a pivotal moment in our search—one where our prayers and the Holy Spirit’s guidance have met with a clear, audacious vision for our future.
We ask for your continued prayers that Joe and Amanda accept this invitation to come to Centralia. If they accept, you will soon have the opportunity to meet them in person. We are confident that once you experience their warmth, energy, and shared vision, you will see exactly what the Committee and Council saw: an undeniable fit for the mission of Immanuel.
Thank you for your unwavering patience and prayer over these past seven months. We are standing on the threshold of something extraordinary.
In Faith, The Call Committee: Jeri, Kevin, Audra, Diane, Ryan, Patty, and Charla
Book Club
We met on January 7th to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, written by Isabel Allende. There were several story lines within this book. We all admitted it was a difficult read with many graphic pages on war. The plot examines life during an age when immigration was not a choice. We could not help but make comparisons to present times. The story also wrestled with ideas of “home” and change. All in all, we recommend this book. Our next book, BLACK CAKE, written by Charmaine Wilkerson is available in the coffee shop. We will be discussing it at our meeting on February 4th at 10:00.
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
PSALM
(Path for Strengthening Active Lay Ministry)
The Southwestern Washington Synod seeks to form and support trustworthy, inclusive lay leaders who are grounded in Christian faith and in a Lutheran expression of faith. The Path for Strengthening Active Lay Ministry (PSALM) is designed for congregation members who have discerned a call to more intentional and public lay leadership in their congregation and community.
There are brochures available in the narthex for those who are interested. You need a pastor’s recommendation, so talk to Pastor Val soon.
For the week of February 6
Remember in Prayer
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
🎷 Jambalaya & Jazz Night 🎶
at Immanuel Lutheran Church – Centralia, WA
Join us for a fun and flavorful evening of jambalaya, jazz music, and community!
🗓 Tuesday, February 17, 2026
🕠 5:30–8:00 PM
📍 Immanuel Lutheran Church, Centralia, Washington
Enjoy a delicious bowl of jambalaya while relaxing or dancing to jazz in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This event is open to friends, families, and the community—everyone is invited!
Call Committee Congregational Report: Guided by the Holy Spirit
With humble gratitude for the Holy Spirit’s guidance, the committee is pleased to report that we conducted a highly engaging interview via Zoom with Candidate #7 on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
This marks the conclusion of the initial interview phase for the slate of candidates presented by the Synod. We are now in the process of narrowing our focus. To that end, the committee invited Candidates #6 and #7 back for a second interview. Both have accepted, and these are scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026.
We will meet on Monday, February 2, 2026, to discuss the specific strengths of these candidates and hone our questions for the second round.
We are encouraged by our progress and sense we are nearing the final phase of our search; however, we still have important work to do. We feel the power of your prayers as we navigate this process and remain deeply grateful for your patience and support.
Bishop Marshall
Bishop Marshall will be joining us in worship Feb. 8th. Please plan to attend worship that day to welcome him and hear from him about the mission and ministry of the Southwestern Washington Synod of which Immanuel is an important part. We will have a reception in his honor as well. Please be sure to wear your name tag. If you don’t have a permanent tag and would like one, please request one from the office at admin@ilccentralia.org
Book Club
We met on January 7th to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, written by Isabel Allende. There were several story lines within this book. We all admitted it was a difficult read with many graphic pages on war. The plot examines life during an age when immigration was not a choice. We could not help but make comparisons to present times. The story also wrestled with ideas of “home” and change. All in all, we recommend this book. Our next book, BLACK CAKE, written by Charmaine Wilkerson is available in the coffee shop. We will be discussing it at our meeting on February 4th at 10:00.
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
PSALM
(Path for Strengthening Active Lay Ministry)
The Southwestern Washington Synod seeks to form and support trustworthy, inclusive lay leaders who are grounded in Christian faith and in a Lutheran expression of faith. The Path for Strengthening Active Lay Ministry (PSALM) is designed for congregation members who have discerned a call to more intentional and public lay leadership in their congregation and community.
There are brochures available in the narthex for those who are interested. You need a pastor’s recommendation, so talk to Pastor Val soon.
For the week of January 30
Remember in Prayer
Mark W Health Concerns
Brandy (Norberg) Acute Leukemia
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
🎷 Jambalaya & Jazz Night 🎶
at Immanuel Lutheran Church – Centralia, WA
Join us for a fun and flavorful evening of jambalaya, jazz music, and community!
🗓 Tuesday, February 17, 2026
🕠 5:30–8:00 PM
📍 Immanuel Lutheran Church, Centralia, Washington
Enjoy a delicious bowl of jambalaya while relaxing or dancing to jazz in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This event is open to friends, families, and the community—everyone is invited!
Call Committee Congregational Report: Guided by the Holy Spirit
With humble gratitude for the Holy Spirit’s guidance, the committee is pleased to report that we conducted a highly engaging interview via Zoom with Candidate #7 on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
This marks the conclusion of the initial interview phase for the slate of candidates presented by the Synod. We are now in the process of narrowing our focus. To that end, the committee invited Candidates #6 and #7 back for a second interview. Both have accepted, and these are scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026.
We will meet on Monday, February 2, 2026, to discuss the specific strengths of these candidates and hone our questions for the second round.
We are encouraged by our progress and sense we are nearing the final phase of our search; however, we still have important work to do. We feel the power of your prayers as we navigate this process and remain deeply grateful for your patience and support.
Bishop Marshall
Bishop Marshall will be joining us in worship Feb. 8th. Please plan to attend worship that day to welcome him and hear from him about the mission and ministry of the Southwestern Washington Synod of which Immanuel is an important part. We will have a reception in his honor as well. Please be sure to wear your name tag. If you don’t have a permanent tag and would like one, please request one from the office at admin@ilccentralia.org
Book Club
We met on January 7th to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, written by Isabel Allende. There were several story lines within this book. We all admitted it was a difficult read with many graphic pages on war. The plot examines life during an age when immigration was not a choice. We could not help but make comparisons to present times. The story also wrestled with ideas of “home” and change. All in all, we recommend this book. Our next book, BLACK CAKE, written by Charmaine Wilkerson is available in the coffee shop. We will be discussing it at our meeting on February 4th at 10:00.
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
PSALM
(Path for Strengthening Active Lay Ministry)
The Southwestern Washington Synod seeks to form and support trustworthy, inclusive lay leaders who are grounded in Christian faith and in a Lutheran expression of faith. The Path for Strengthening Active Lay Ministry (PSALM) is designed for congregation members who have discerned a call to more intentional and public lay leadership in their congregation and community.
There are brochures available in the narthex for those who are interested. You need a pastor’s recommendation, so talk to Pastor Val soon.
For the week of January 23
Remember in Prayer
Mark W Health Concerns
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
The Annual Meeting is this Sunday after the worship service.
Copies of the Annual report are available in the Narthex and by email request.
Please plan to attend the meeting to ensure a quorum is met and to bring your voice to the future of Immanuel.
🎷 Jambalaya & Jazz Night 🎶
at Immanuel Lutheran Church – Centralia, WA
Join us for a fun and flavorful evening of jambalaya, jazz music, and community!
🗓 Tuesday, February 17, 2026
🕠 5:30–8:00 PM
📍 Immanuel Lutheran Church, Centralia, Washington
Enjoy a delicious bowl of jambalaya while relaxing or dancing to jazz in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This event is open to friends, families, and the community—everyone is invited!
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of January 23, 2026
Moving Forward in Faith
We are excited to report that the Call Committee completed a very positive interview with Candidate #6 on Thursday, January 22. We continue to be encouraged by the high quality of pastors we are meeting.
We have one remaining initial interview with Candidate #7 scheduled for Tuesday, January 27. This will mark the completion of our first round of vetting. As we narrow our focus, we have concluded that Candidates #1 and #3 are not the best match for Immanuel’s needs. They have been notified. Candidate #2 voluntarily withdrew.
What lies ahead: Next week, the committee will interview Candidate #7 and then prayerfully review the remaining candidates to determine who will be invited back for a second interview.
We know the search process can feel long, but we are committed to diligence to ensure a bright future for our congregation. We are now entering the final phases of the search and are eager to move to the next steps. Thank you for praying for us as we discern God’s will for Immanuel.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
Book Club
We met on January 7th to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, written by Isabel Allende. There were several story lines within this book. We all admitted it was a difficult read with many graphic pages on war. The plot examines life during an age when immigration was not a choice. We could not help but make comparisons to present times. The story also wrestled with ideas of “home” and change. All in all, we recommend this book. Our next book, BLACK CAKE, written by Charmaine Wilkerson is available in the coffee shop. We will be discussing it at our meeting on February 4th at 10:00.
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
For the week of January 16
Remember in Prayer
Mark W Health Concerns
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
The Annual Meeting is January 25th after the worship service.
Copies of the Annual report are available in the Narthex and by email request.
Please plan to attend the meeting to ensure a quorum is met and to bring your voice to the future of Immanuel.
LGBTQ+ Night
We will be meeting at the church this month for LGBTQ+ Game Night is tonight 6:30 pm.
🎷 Jambalaya & Jazz Night 🎶
at Immanuel Lutheran Church – Centralia, WA
Join us for a fun and flavorful evening of jambalaya, jazz music, and community!
🗓 Tuesday, February 17, 2026
🕠 5:30–8:00 PM
📍 Immanuel Lutheran Church, Centralia, Washington
Enjoy a delicious bowl of jambalaya while relaxing or dancing to jazz in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This event is open to friends, families, and the community—everyone is invited!
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of January 12, 2026
The Call Committee (Jeri, Diane, Kevin, Audra, Ryan, Patty, and Charla) met twice this past week to kick off the new year. January is a busy month as we resume our search.
Candidate Updates:
Candidate #3: After reviewing the second interview, we decided this candidate is not the right fit for our congregation and have notified both the candidate and Synod.
Active Interviews: We completed an initial Zoom interview with Candidate #5 on January 14th.
Next Steps: We are withholding decisions on Candidates #4 and #5 until we complete initial interviews with Candidates #6 and #7, scheduled for January 22nd and 27th.
Process Improvement: After our second interview with Candidate #3 we concluded that we need to refine our second interview strategy by streamlining our questions
to reduce redundancy.
We appreciate your continued prayers as we move through this important discernment process.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
Book Club
We met on January 7th to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, written by Isabel Allende. There were several story lines within this book. We all admitted it was a difficult read with many graphic pages on war. The plot examines life during an age when immigration was not a choice. We could not help but make comparisons to present times. The story also wrestled with ideas of “home” and change. All in all, we recommend this book. Our next book, BLACK CAKE, written by Charmaine Wilkerson is available in the coffee shop. We will be discussing it at our meeting on February 4th at 10:00.
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
For the week of January 9
Remember in Prayer
Dave B Blood Clots in lungs and legs - low oxygen levels
Mark W Health Concerns
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria B Knee Replacement Surgery 12/1
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Aveiro B Relief from Pain
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
The Annual Meeting is January 25th after the worship service.
Copies of the Annual report will be available beginning January 11th.
Please plan to attend the meeting to ensure a quorum is met and to bring your voice to the future of Immanuel.
Food Drive
Due to a multitude of reasons our area food banks are very low on supplies. We collected a total of 784 lbs of food! Great job.
We always have baskets out in the hallways around the kitchen to receive your donations of food for the Salvation Army. Let’s keep filling the baskets for those les fortunate than ourselves.
Book Club
We met on January 7th to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, written by Isabel Allende. There were several story lines within this book. We all admitted it was a difficult read with many graphic pages on war. The plot examines life during an age when immigration was not a choice. We could not help but make comparisons to present times. The story also wrestled with ideas of “home” and change. All in all, we recommend this book. Our next book, BLACK CAKE, written by Charmaine Wilkerson is available in the coffee shop. We will be discussing it at our meeting on February 4th at 10:00.
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
LGBTQ+ Night
We will be meeting at the church this month for LGBTQ+ Game Night on Friday January 16th at 6:30 pm.
For the week of January 2
Remember in Prayer
Dave B Blood Clots in lungs and legs - low oxygen levels
Mark W Health Concerns
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria B Knee Replacement Surgery 12/1
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Aveiro B Relief from Pain
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
The Annual Meeting is January 25th after the worship service.
Copies of the Annual report will be available beginning January 11th.
Please plan to attend the meeting to ensure a quorum is met and to bring your voice to the future of Immanuel. Ministry Team Reports are due to the office SUNDAY.
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of December 15, 2025
In attendance: Jeri, Diane, Kevin, Audra, Ryan, Patty and Charla.
As we approach the joy of Christmas, the Call Committee is pleased to share a final update for the year. We met on Monday, December 15, and successfully concluded our initial interview with Candidate #4.
Looking ahead to the New Year, the future is bright! We have three additional initial interviews scheduled for January 2026. It is a true blessing to report that the overall quality of the candidates has been excellent thus far.
The committee will now take a well-deserved break to celebrate the birth of Christ with loved ones, friends, and neighbors. Consequently, there will be no weekly reports during the holidays. We will reconvene on Monday, January 12, 2026, to prepare for the next round of interviews.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a blessed Happy New Year!
Food Drive
Due to a multitude of reasons our area food banks are very low on supplies. At Immanuel we want to help! Starting this Sunday November 2nd we will begin collecting non perishable food for The Salvation Army Food Bank, also known as Hope Market. The goal is to collect 500 pounds of food before Christmas. The greatest need is for soups, canned protein, single serve oatmeal, cereal, chili, shelf stable milk and baby formula! If you’re able to bring something every Sunday to add to the bounty that would be wonderful! If you have any questions please ask Diane Stedham-Jewell. We have met the goal and continue to collect food through the end of the year.
Book Club
We met on December 3rd to discuss THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE, written by Abi Dare’. We agreed about the book being somewhat hard to read, from both a physical and mental standpoint. But we also agree that it is worth the challenge. Seeing the world from the prospective of a Nigerian girl is eye opening for sure. We recommend! We will meet again on January 7 to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, by Isabel Allende. These books may be available by Sunday. Check it out and join us!
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
Christmas Greetings
At this (almost) end of the year, it’s natural to reflect on all that we’ve been through in 2025. It has been my privilege and pleasure to serve God’s mission for the last 10 months alongside all of you, the saints of Immanuel Lutheran! Just as none of us know what the future holds, I don’t know how much longer I will serve with you. But I give thanks for every day I’m here.
I hold you all in my heart and in my prayers in this season that can be beautiful but can also be difficult and painful. Life is complex. Both beauty and pain can live side by side in our hearts. Whatever the season holds for you, I offer this blessing:
May this season of unexpected hope, peace and joy fill your heart, your home and your life with God’s peace that can sustain you through the good days and the bad. Amen.
Compassionate Caring in Crisis
Below, you will find a link to the winter newsletter for Lewis County Chaplaincy Services.
“We wanted to keep you and your congregation updated on our activities and how we are serving your community during crisis.
Thank you
Kevin Curfman, LCCS President.
Your can read the ChapLine on our website at lewiscountychaplaincy.org
Or clicking Winter-2025-Newsletter-.pdf
For the week of December 26
Remember in Prayer
Mark W Health Concerns
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria B Knee Replacement Surgery 12/1
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Aveiro B Relief from Pain
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of December 15, 2025
In attendance: Jeri, Diane, Kevin, Audra, Ryan, Patty and Charla.
As we approach the joy of Christmas, the Call Committee is pleased to share a final update for the year. We met on Monday, December 15, and successfully concluded our initial interview with Candidate #4.
Looking ahead to the New Year, the future is bright! We have three additional initial interviews scheduled for January 2026. It is a true blessing to report that the overall quality of the candidates has been excellent thus far.
The committee will now take a well-deserved break to celebrate the birth of Christ with loved ones, friends, and neighbors. Consequently, there will be no weekly reports during the holidays. We will reconvene on Monday, January 12, 2026, to prepare for the next round of interviews.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a blessed Happy New Year!
Food Drive
Due to a multitude of reasons our area food banks are very low on supplies. At Immanuel we want to help! Starting this Sunday November 2nd we will begin collecting non perishable food for The Salvation Army Food Bank, also known as Hope Market. The goal is to collect 500 pounds of food before Christmas. The greatest need is for soups, canned protein, single serve oatmeal, cereal, chili, shelf stable milk and baby formula! If you’re able to bring something every Sunday to add to the bounty that would be wonderful! If you have any questions please ask Diane Stedham-Jewell. We have met the goal and continue to collect food through the end of the year.
Book Club
We met on December 3rd to discuss THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE, written by Abi Dare’. We agreed about the book being somewhat hard to read, from both a physical and mental standpoint. But we also agree that it is worth the challenge. Seeing the world from the prospective of a Nigerian girl is eye opening for sure. We recommend! We will meet again on January 7 to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, by Isabel Allende. These books may be available by Sunday. Check it out and join us!
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
Worship Assistant’s sign-up sheets
The clipboards are In the narthex to sign-up for the various ways in which you can participate in our weekly worship in 2026. There are several ways you can volunteer your time. They include: Altar Care (setting up communion), serving communion, readers, acolyte, bringing fellowship snacks. Coffee host/hostess, helping with Sunday School. If you are interested, please put your name on the appropriate list(s). Barbara will then make up the schedules for the year.
Christmas Greetings
At this (almost) end of the year, it’s natural to reflect on all that we’ve been through in 2025. It has been my privilege and pleasure to serve God’s mission for the last 10 months alongside all of you, the saints of Immanuel Lutheran! Just as none of us know what the future holds, I don’t know how much longer I will serve with you. But I give thanks for every day I’m here.
I hold you all in my heart and in my prayers in this season that can be beautiful but can also be difficult and painful. Life is complex. Both beauty and pain can live side by side in our hearts. Whatever the season holds for you, I offer this blessing:
May this season of unexpected hope, peace and joy fill your heart, your home and your life with God’s peace that can sustain you through the good days and the bad. Amen.
Compassionate Caring in Crisis
Below, you will find a link to the winter newsletter for Lewis County Chaplaincy Services.
“We wanted to keep you and your congregation updated on our activities and how we are serving your community during crisis.
Thank you
Kevin Curfman, LCCS President.
Your can read the ChapLine on our website at lewiscountychaplaincy.org
Or clicking Winter-2025-Newsletter-.pdf
For the week of December 19
Remember in Prayer
Mark W Healthe Concerns
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Jen & Ry Flooding
Noreen B Back Pain
Smith Family Death of Kitty
Gloria B Knee Replacement Surgery 12/1
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Aveiro B Relief from Pain
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Immanuel Lutheran LGBTQ+ Night
Join us Friday, December 19th @ 5:30 pm
Participating in
Community Caroling Downtown Centralia
Meeting at Pine Street Plaza - Next to Dawn’s Delectables
Optional: Dress in Holiday Spirit
Mix & Mingle event following @ 7:00 pm at
Tiki Tap House
404 M Tower Ave
Centralia, WA
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of December 15, 2025
In attendance: Jeri, Diane, Kevin, Audra, Ryan, Patty and Charla.
As we approach the joy of Christmas, the Call Committee is pleased to share a final update for the year. We met on Monday, December 15, and successfully concluded our initial interview with Candidate #4.
Looking ahead to the New Year, the future is bright! We have three additional initial interviews scheduled for January 2026. It is a true blessing to report that the overall quality of the candidates has been excellent thus far.
The committee will now take a well-deserved break to celebrate the birth of Christ with loved ones, friends, and neighbors. Consequently, there will be no weekly reports during the holidays. We will reconvene on Monday, January 12, 2026, to prepare for the next round of interviews.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a blessed Happy New Year!
Food Drive
Due to a multitude of reasons our area food banks are very low on supplies. At Immanuel we want to help! Starting this Sunday November 2nd we will begin collecting non perishable food for The Salvation Army Food Bank, also known as Hope Market. The goal is to collect 500 pounds of food before Christmas. The greatest need is for soups, canned protein, single serve oatmeal, cereal, chili, shelf stable milk and baby formula! If you’re able to bring something every Sunday to add to the bounty that would be wonderful! If you have any questions please ask Diane Stedham-Jewell. We have met the goal and continue to collect food through the end of the year.
Book Club
We met on December 3rd to discuss THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE, written by Abi Dare’. We agreed about the book being somewhat hard to read, from both a physical and mental standpoint. But we also agree that it is worth the challenge. Seeing the world from the prospective of a Nigerian girl is eye opening for sure. We recommend! We will meet again on January 7 to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, by Isabel Allende. These books may be available by Sunday. Check it out and join us!
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
Worship Assistant’s sign-up sheets
The clipboards are In the narthex to sign-up for the various ways in which you can participate in our weekly worship in 2026. There are several ways you can volunteer your time. They include: Altar Care (setting up communion), serving communion, readers, acolyte, bringing fellowship snacks. Coffee host/hostess, helping with Sunday School. If you are interested, please put your name on the appropriate list(s). Barbara will then make up the schedules for the year.
Mother Emanuel Sunday
Thanks to your generous donations, Immanuel will be sending $550.00 to Mother Emanuel AME church in Charleston, SC to help them in their recovery efforts so that they may continue to be a shining beacon of God's love in their city. Please keep praying for an end to racism and all the artificial divides that threaten us all with violence.
For the week of December 12
Remember in Prayer
Mark W Healthe Concerns
Luanne (Victoria) Lung Surgery
Jen & Ry Flooding
Noreen B Back Pain
Smith Family Death of Kitty
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria B Knee Replacement Surgery 12/1
Westman Family Dale’s death
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Aveiro B Relief from Pain
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Immanuel Lutheran LGBTQ+ Night
Join us Friday, December 19th @ 5:30 pm
Participating in
Community Caroling Downtown Centralia
Meeting at Pine Street Plaza - Next to Dawn’s Delectables
Optional: Dress in Holiday Spirit
Mix & Mingle event following @ 7:00 pm at
Tiki Tap House
404 M Tower Ave
Centralia, WA
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of December 8, 2025
The Call Committee met on Monday, December 8, 2025.
We are pleased to report that we have successfully completed a second interview with Candidate #2. The momentum continues as we look forward to meeting our next candidate on December 15, 2025. We also have three more promising interviews already secured on the calendar for January to kick off the new year!
After our interview on the 15th, the committee will take a short recess to celebrate the joy of the holiday season with loved ones, returning refreshed and ready to go in early January.
We are so grateful for your continued patience and prayers during this process. From our team to you, we wish everyone a safe, blessed, and wonderful holiday season!
Mother Emanuel Sunday
On Dec. 14th we will commemorate Mother Emanuel Sunday, a day to remember the horrific violence perpetrated by a young man who was raised in an ELCA congregation on the historically Black church, Mother Emanuel AME in Charleston, NC. In addition to the shooter's connection with the ELCA, several of Mother Emanuel's leaders attended ELCA seminaries. On this 10th anniversary of the shooting, many ELCA congregations are contributing to a fund for Mother Emanuel's ongoing restoration in an act of solidarity between the ELCA and Mother Emanuel. We will take a special offering to be sent to Mother Emanuel church at the end of worship 12/14.
Food Drive
Due to a multitude of reasons our area food banks are very low on supplies. At Immanuel we want to help! Starting this Sunday November 2nd we will begin collecting non perishable food for The Salvation Army Food Bank, also known as Hope Market. The goal is to collect 500 pounds of food before Christmas. The greatest need is for soups, canned protein, single serve oatmeal, cereal, chili, shelf stable milk and baby formula! If you’re able to bring something every Sunday to add to the bounty that would be wonderful! If you have any questions please ask Diane Stedham-Jewell. As of 11/23/25 we have collected 490lbs! Almost to our goal. We will continue collecting after we meet it.
Book Club
We met on December 3rd to discuss THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE, written by Abi Dare’. We agreed about the book being somewhat hard to read, from both a physical and mental standpoint. But we also agree that it is worth the challenge. Seeing the world from the prospective of a Nigerian girl is eye opening for sure. We recommend! We will meet again on January 7 to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, by Isabel Allende. These books may be available by Sunday. Check it out and join us!
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
New Members
New members will be received Dec. 14th during worship. If you are not an official member and would like to become official, please let Barbara in the office know as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please speak with Pastor Val very soon.
Worship Assistant’s sign-up sheets
The clipboards are In the narthex to sign-up for the various ways in which you can participate in our weekly worship in 2026. There are several ways you can volunteer your time. They include: Altar Care (setting up communion), serving communion, readers, acolyte, bringing fellowship snacks. Coffee host/hostess, helping with Sunday School. If you are interested, please put your name on the appropriate list(s). Barbara will then make up the schedules for the year.
For the week of December 5
Remember in Prayer
Smith Family Death of Kitty
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria B Knee Replacement Surgery 12/1
Westman Family Dale’s death
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS Pain
Tom B Liver Cancer
Aveiro B Relief from Pain
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of December 1, 2025
We are thrilled to share some wonderful news! The Synod has blessed Immanuel with four additional Rostered Minister Profiles (RMPs) for our consideration. After reviewing these profiles—essentially the pastors' resumes—the Call Committee is excited to announce that all four candidates bring unique gifts and talents that would truly benefit our church. We have decided to interview every one of them! Notably, two of these candidates are a husband-and-wife team, adding an interesting dynamic to our search.
Our momentum is strong! You may recall that Candidate #3 (from our first group) has agreed to a second Zoom interview, which is scheduled for this coming Friday, December 5th.
Additionally, thanks to the swift work of Jeri, we have already locked in a first interview with Candidate #4 for December 15, 2025. This will be our final interview of the year as we pause to acknowledge the season of Advent and celebrate Christmas. Looking ahead, we are actively coordinating with Candidates #5, #6, and #7 to secure interview times starting the second week of January 2026.
There is no reason for the Committee to formally meet during the week of December 8th. We will stay engaged, dialoging through phone and texts. We will also be taking a break from December 16th through the end of the year to focus on faith, family, and friends during the holidays.
Your prayers are truly working! It is a joy to see so many qualified candidates expressing interest in joining the Immanuel family. Please keep those prayers coming as we continue this journey together!
Food Drive
Due to a multitude of reasons our area food banks are very low on supplies. At Immanuel we want to help! Starting this Sunday November 2nd we will begin collecting non perishable food for The Salvation Army Food Bank, also known as Hope Market. The goal is to collect 500 pounds of food before Christmas. The greatest need is for soups, canned protein, single serve oatmeal, cereal, chili, shelf stable milk and baby formula! If you’re able to bring something every Sunday to add to the bounty that would be wonderful! If you have any questions please ask Diane Stedham-Jewell. As of 11/23/25 we have collected 490lbs! Almost to our goal. We will continue collecting after we meet it.
Christmas Giving Tree
The Christmas Giving tree is trimmed with gift tags! Please take a tag (or more), go shopping and return your tagged and UN-wrapped gifts back to the tree by December 12th. We will be supporting both the Salvation Army and Lewis County Foster Parent Association this year.
Book Club
We met on December 3rd to discuss THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE, written by Abi Dare’. We agreed about the book being somewhat hard to read, from both a physical and mental standpoint. But we also agree that it is worth the challenge. Seeing the world from the prospective of a Nigerian girl is eye opening for sure. We recommend! We will meet again on January 7 to discuss A LONG PETAL OF THE SEA, by Isabel Allende. These books may be available by Sunday. Check it out and join us!
Reminder…..please return books by the day of discussion.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
Memorial Service
A memorial for Kitty Smith, who recently died after a long illness, will be held at Grand Mound Elementary School Gymnasium 7710 James Road, Rochester WA Saturday, Dec. 13th at 1 pm.
Prayer N Share Breakfast Meeting
The women's Prayer and Share December breakfast meeting date and location has been changed. We will be meeting Friday December 12th at the home of Diane Jewell at 9:00 a.m.. All women are welcome to come. Diane asks that you RSVP if you will be attending by December 10th.
New Members
New members will be received Dec. 14th during worship. If you are not an official member and would like to become official, please let Barbara in the office know as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please speak with Pastor Val very soon.
For the week of November 28
Remember in Prayer
Gloria B Knee Replacement Surgery 12/1
Elliot (Bev) 1 1/2 year with Sepsis
Westman Family Dale’s death
Schlecht Family Ben’s death
Gloria J At Sharon Care due to fall
Craig Family Claudia’s death
Carrie A MS Pain
Kitty S Receiving Hospice care
Tom B Liver Cancer
Aveiro B Relief from Pain
Shirley J Health Concerns
Laurie D Relief from pain from CRPS
Trelani P Health concerns
Please be in prayer for the call committee and the process. Please pray that the right pastor is connected to the team and that the Call Committee is open to God’s leading them to Immanuel.
Call Committee Congregational Report
Reporting Week of November 24, 2025
While the Call Committee did not formally meet on Monday November 24th, we still had activity. We are pleased to announce that the Synod has provided additional candidates for our consideration.
We will meet again on Monday December 1st to begin the review process and we will keep you posted with what we see.
As always, we are asking for your continued prayers for this vital process.
Food Drive
Due to a multitude of reasons our area food banks are very low on supplies. At Immanuel we want to help! Starting this Sunday November 2nd we will begin collecting non perishable food for The Salvation Army Food Bank, also known as Hope Market. The goal is to collect 500 pounds of food before Christmas. The greatest need is for soups, canned protein, single serve oatmeal, cereal, chili, shelf stable milk and baby formula! If you’re able to bring something every Sunday to add to the bounty that would be wonderful! If you have any questions please ask Diane Stedham-Jewell. As of 11/23/25 we have collected 490lbs! Almost to our goal. We will continue collecting after we meet it.
Christmas Giving Tree
The Christmas Giving tree is trimmed with gift tags! Please take a tag (or more), go shopping and return your tagged and UN-wrapped gifts back to the tree by December 13th. We will be supporting both the Salvation Army and Lewis County Foster Parent Association this year.
Book Club
Our book club met the morning of November 5. First, we spent some time for each of us to remember Claudia. She was a special, unique person to us all. After shedding a few tears, we moved on to discuss WEST WITH GIRAFFES, written by Lynda Rutledge. I think initially we were prepared to discount this book. However, now we all agreed it’s one of the best books we have read. It’s a gem! We recommend! Our next meeting will be December 3. Right now, we have no new book, but we hope that will change soon. Stay tuned.
Sunday School
Sunday School is meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 (before worship.) All ages of young people are welcome! Please join us in the Kids Corner (old nursery next to the sanctuary.) We’re experimenting with
pre-worship Sunday School so give it a try!
Memorial Service
A memorial for Dale Westman, who recently died after a long illness, will be held at Immanuel Lutheran church Thursday, Dec. 4th at 2 pm.
New Members
New members will be received Dec. 14th during worship. If you are not an official member and would like to become official, please let Barbara in the office know as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please speak with Pastor Val very soon.