For the week of June 12
Remember in Prayer
Ken K Stroke, Brain Bleed, Neuro ICU
Linda B Loss of Jim
Hannah F (Pickens) Surgery pending insurance approval
Kelso/Longview Industrial Explosion deaths
Tom F Cancer Treatment
Sheryl R Cancer Treatment
Jason M (Gillan) Heart issues
Steve V Medical Issues
Mary A Medical Issues
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS 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.
Dear Immanuel Community,
I have been blessed to serve you. When I signed up to be your “Bridge” Pastor, I understood that I would be here until the Johnson’s arrived. I signed my contract through June. This limitation was because of previous obligations. Unfortunately, the Johnson’s decided not to follow the call at Immanuel, and the community remains in the process of calling a new pastor.
Though I prayed about staying at Immanuel, my previous obligations remain. This has nothing to do with anything regarding Immanuel. I truly enjoyed my time working with the community. You are an amazing congregation, and I have been blessed to worship and work with you. Unfortunately, this season has come to an end.
Please continue the welcoming work that you have been doing, serving your community, and blessing your neighbors as the Spirit leads you. I wish you much love and continued peace as you journey as followers of Jesus Christ.
Gratefully,
Pastor Norm
Book Club
We met on May 6 to critique THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY, it’s characters, twists and turns. Unanimous favorite character is, of course, Billy. Go find him. Read the book. Our next book will be CLOUD CUCKOO LAND, by Anthony Doerr and should be available by Sunday, 5/10. We will meet on June 3rd to discuss it. You are welcome to pick up a book, sign the list, and join us.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
Mary Martha will be having their annual picnic on WEDNESDAY, June 24th at Talking Cedars Restaurant, Hawks Prairie. Please meet at the church to leave by carpool at 11:30 am.
Please RSVP to Dorathea or Lynn by Monday, June 22nd.
Sunday Snacks
Recently we have had several Sundays when those folks signed up to bring snacks have not supplied them. If you are signed up and unable to provide please trade with someone else or bring a non perishable snack to the church earlier in the week and leave it in the kitchen with a note. If you wish to be removed from the snack rotation please notify Barbara in the church office (360-736-9270) however if you would like to be added to the rotation again please let Barbara know. The rotation involves providing snacks about once every 6 weeks. When it is your turn please provide enough for about 36 servings. There is a list of current families in the kitchen.
For the week of June 5
Remember in Prayer
Kelso/Longview Industrial Explosion deaths
Don Schaefer Healing from car accident
Wirth/Smith Loss of son-in-law Brett
Tom F Cancer Treatment
Sheryl R Cancer Treatment
Jason M (Gillan) Heart issues
Steve V Medical Issues
Mary A Medical Issues
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS 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.
Wear Orange - Sunday June 7th. Gun Violence Awareness day is Friday June 5th.
Please join Immanuel’s Social Justice Ministry on Sunday June 7th as we “wear orange” to honor survivors and build community with those working to end gun violence.
Why orange?
On January 21, 2013, Hadiya Pendleton marched in President Obama’s second inaugural parade. One week later, Hadiya was shot and killed on a playground in Chicago. Soon after this tragedy, Hadiya’s friends commemorated her life by wearing orange, the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves and others. Wear Orange is now observed every June. Thousands of people wear the color orange to honor Hadiya and the more than 43,000 Americans who are killed with guns and approximately 76,000 more who are shot and wounded every year.
Book Club
Book Club met on June 3 to critique CLOUD CUCKOO LAND but it didn't click even among those who read it. Cuckoo was right. There were too many characters in multiple places in time periods from the 1500´s to futuristic living in outer space, all wrapped up in ancient literature such as the Iliad and the Archimedes Codex.
Our next book, THEO OF GOLDEN, was chosen based on a recommendation by Pastor Norm. We purchased it outright rather than waiting for Timberland book club copies.
THEO OF GOLDEN is available at the church. We had a generous donor so the books are free. We will meet on July 1st at 10am to discuss it. All are welcome, there is no membership.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
Sunday Snacks
Recently we have had several Sundays when those folks signed up to bring snacks have not supplied them. If you are signed up and unable to provide please trade with someone else or bring a non perishable snack to the church earlier in the week and leave it in the kitchen with a note. If you wish to be removed from the snack rotation please notify Barbara in the church office (360-736-9270) however if you would like to be added to the rotation again please let Barbara know. The rotation involves providing snacks about once every 6 weeks. When it is your turn please provide enough for about 36 servings. There is a list of current families in the kitchen.
For the week of May 29
Remember in Prayer
Kelso/Longview Industrial Explosion deaths
Don Schaefer Healing from car accident
Wirth/Smith Loss of son-in-law Brett
Tom F Cancer Treatment
Sheryl R Cancer Treatment
Jason M (Gillan) Heart issues
Steve V Medical Issues
Mary A Medical Issues
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS 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.
Book Club
We met on May 6 to critique THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY, it’s characters, twists and turns. Unanimous favorite character is, of course, Billy. Go find him. Read the book. Our next book will be CLOUD CUCKOO LAND, by Anthony Doerr and should be available by Sunday, 5/10. We will meet on June 3rd to discuss it. You are welcome to pick up a book, sign the list, and join us.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
Wear Orange - Sunday June 7th. Gun Violence Awareness day is Friday June 5th.
Please join Immanuel’s Social Justice Ministry on Sunday June 7th as we “wear orange” to honor survivors and build community with those working to end gun violence.
Why orange?
On January 21, 2013, Hadiya Pendleton marched in President Obama’s second inaugural parade. One week later, Hadiya was shot and killed on a playground in Chicago. Soon after this tragedy, Hadiya’s friends commemorated her life by wearing orange, the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves and others. Wear Orange is now observed every June. Thousands of people wear the color orange to honor Hadiya and the more than 43,000 Americans who are killed with guns and approximately 76,000 more who are shot and wounded every year.
Sunday Snacks
Recently we have had several Sundays when those folks signed up to bring snacks have not supplied them. If you are signed up and unable to provide please trade with someone else or bring a non perishable snack to the church earlier in the week and leave it in the kitchen with a note. If you wish to be removed from the snack rotation please notify Barbara in the church office (360-736-9270) however if you would like to be added to the rotation again please let Barbara know. The rotation involves providing snacks about once every 6 weeks. When it is your turn please provide enough for about 36 servings. There is a list of current families in the kitchen.
For the week of May 8
Remember in Prayer
Lisa A Surgery 5/5
Tom F Cancer Treatment
Sheryl R Cancer Treatment
Mary A Emotional Support
Jason M (Gillan) Heart issues
Steve V Medical Issues
Mary A Medical Issues
Brett M (Wirth/Smith) Critical Care—awake
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS 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.
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
We met on May 6 to critique THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY, it’s characters, twists and turns. Unanimous favorite character is, of course, Billy. Go find him. Read the book. Our next book will be CLOUD CUCKOO LAND, by Anthony Doerr and should be available by Sunday, 5/10. We will meet on June 3rd to discuss it. You are welcome to pick up a book, sign the list, and join us.
Pick up a book and come join us.
Reminder….please return books by the day of discussion
New Members
We will be receiving new members on Sunday May 10. If you are interested in becoming a member of Immanuel, please talk to Pastor Norm on Sunday!
Annual Watering Schedule
As you may have noticed flowers have been planted in the pots. Now we need volunteers to water. There is a sign up sheet. If 7 volunteers each commit to one day a week, the work load will not be too heavy.
For the week of May 1
Remember in Prayer
Tom F Cancer Treatment
Sheryl R Cancer Treatment
Mary A Emotional Support
Jason M (Gillan) Heart issues
Steve V Medical Issues
Mary A Medical Issues
Dave I Healing (nose)
Brett M (Wirth/Smith) Critical Care—awake
Noreen B Back Pain
Gloria J At Sharon Care
Iva R At Sharon Care
Carrie A MS 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.
May 5 is the National Day of Remembrance for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People
As a part of the service on May 3 we will honor the MIP from Western Washington. Please wear red in remembrance and recognition of those who have been lost and are missing.
Grand Canyon Synod has scheduled a zoom Candlelight Vigil on May 5 at 5 pm that anyone can join. Immanuel will host the vigil on zoom for those who wish to come together in prayer. You can also register independently if you cannot attend Immanuel in person.
To register go to :
us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HtKfgvWQQ2K5MVMI0zrzKw
Download the vigil liturgy at:
elcamediaresources.blob.core.windows.net/cdn/wp-content/uploads/MMIW_Vigil.pdf
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
New Members
We will be receiving new members on Sunday May 10. If you are interested in becoming a member of Immanuel, please talk to Pastor Norm on Sunday!
Annual Watering Schedule
As you may have noticed flowers have been planted in the pots. Now we need volunteers to water. There is a sign up sheet. If 7 volunteers each commit to one day a week, the work load will not be too heavy.
For the week of April 24
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 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.