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Friday Eblast - February 26, 2021

A beautiful Friday to our beloved good shepherds,
 
There is a lot of information here, and we hope you take the time to read and digest - perhaps grab a cup of your favorite beverage and enjoy as you read!
 
Sunday Worship for February 28, 2021 - 2 Lent
Join us for our livestreamed Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg. You can always find our livestreams and recordings with that link, or you can go to YouTube.com and search for Good Shepherd Lutheran, Reno to find us.  You can join us there at 11am or you view the recording of the livestream any time after worship concludes.  A list of all of our worship recordings is also available on our website at goodshepherdreno.org.  You do not have to have a YouTube account to watch our videos or livestreams.  However, if you wish to "chat" in the live chat box, you will need to sign up for an account.  Our livestreams are also shown on Facebook.
 
Esthermae Haines Memorial Service Plans
Longtime Good Shepherd member Esthermae Haines, who was Good Shepherd’s choir director for about 10 years early in its history, died Wednesday, January 13 at age 93. She and Ron were married in 1976 by Pastor Jack Ericson. A memorial service is planned for Sunday, February 28 at 12:30 p.m. Due to COVID health restrictions, in-person attendance is limited to invited guests only. The service will be livestreamed to the Good Shepherd YouTube channel using the link https://youtu.be/dujM6bGnnu4 and will also be available as a recording on the Good Shepherd YouTube channel. Those accessing the service live are invited to use the chat feature to share a memory of Esthermae or send greetings to Ron. The notes will be saved and printed for Ron. Thanks be to God for the life of Esthermae Haines. 
 
“When Can We Come Back to Church?”
With COVID case and positivity rate numbers in our region declining and people beginning to receive vaccination shots, you may have been asking yourself: “When can we come back to church for Sunday worship?” Good Shepherd’s COVID Task Force met via Zoom on Thursday, February 18 to discuss this and related questions. The task force is eager to return to in-person worship as well, while balancing that desire with health and safety concerns. We are guided by public health numbers provided by the Washoe County Health District and in particular we monitor the overall case numbers and the “Positivity Rate” of cases, which are 2 of the 3 factors in the “Governor’s Criteria.” While these numbers have declined significantly from their peak, they remain elevated according to the thresholds that health officials have established. The task force concluded "We're moving in the right direction, but we're not there yet" in terms of assessing the health numbers and our ability to open in-person worship to include more than our present team of worship leaders and tech deacons and other hosts. For those who wish to access statewide and Washoe County COVD-related information, check out this site: https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/
 
The task force will continue to monitor local health statistics and has another meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 4. The task force is in conversation with church office staff and the Governing Board and will provide updated information to the congregation following the Governing Board’s March 15 meeting. Task Force members include Jane Addington, Paul Brosy, Deanna Gaunt, Celia Kupersmith, Alyssa O’Hair, Ron Smith, Dave Soderlund, and Pr. Scott Trevithick. 
 
End of Life Planning Workshop with Pastor Scott - The workshop is set for Monday, March 1 at 4 p.m. via Zoom. 
Pastor Scott will be leading a Zoom adaptation of the Planning for the End-of-Life workshop he has led before with congregations, general audiences, and at the synod assembly. Through presentation, discussion, and personal reflection participants will be able to consider their own end-of-life wishes, understand their options and resources, and formulate a plan to specify their wishes to family members and other trusted friends. They will have the opportunity to create an action plan which will include steps to take to specify their own end-of-life wishes including
·       Memorial Service planning
·       Disposition of one’s body
·       Expressing one’s wishes with family
·       Considering a legacy gift
If you have questions, send a note to PrScott@goodshepherdreno.org 
 
Governing Board Update
Good Shepherd's Governing Board met on February 16 following the February 7 Congregational meeting. Celia Kupersmith is the new President, Ken Narducy continues as Treasurer, and Cara Paoli continues as Secretary. Also serving are Denise Kolton, John Albrecht, and newly-elected member Dave Soderlund, along with Pastor Scott Trevithick. The Governing Board has general oversight of the life and activities of Good Shepherd, and in particular its worship life, its mission, the engagement of its members, its general administration and financial stewardship, its relationship with its pastor and staff, and its partnership as a part of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America). Members serve in three-year terms and may serve a second consecutive term. Members pictures are displayed on the Good Shepherd website at www.goodshepherdreno.org/our-staff-and-leadership 
 
A Message from Renown about Vaccinations
Good Shepherd friends, I know an increasing number of you all have received or scheduled your vaccination shots. Many have expressed to me a sense of relief at having taken this important step. See below for information Dr. Anthony Slonim, President and CEO of Renown, has shared with faith leaders to provide information about vaccinations and encourage people to schedule and receive their shots when it is their turn. ~ Pr. Scott
 
Dear Faith Partners,
As a physician and public health practitioner, I am requesting that you encourage your members (especially those who represent communities of color and at the highest risk for hospitalization) to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Older adults who live in Washoe County can register to get a vaccine appointment either through the Washoe County Health District or by signing up for a Renown MyChart account.
 
At Renown Health, we have vaccinated our physicians, employees, students and volunteers in Tier 1A. And then, our incredible COVID-19 Vaccination team went to work to help vaccinate our community. Over the last 6 weeks, our Renown volunteers began vaccinating people aged 70 and older. We are currently vaccinating over 1,000 seniors a day and operate 3 or 4 days a week, depending on the amount of vaccine we receive each week from the County. The vaccine clinic operates by appointment only, at our automobile Drive Thru vaccination site at the back of the Hometown Health parking lot, near the Renown South Meadows Medical Center campus. The vaccine is offered free of charge, and is given in a two dose series.
 
We would like to provide vaccinations for members of your congregations who are residents of Washoe County, age 70 and older; and as of 2/23- those 65 and older. Please encourage your members to download Renown MyChart to create an account to join the waiting list for an appointment at Renown’s Drive Thru vaccination clinic. We have attached a tip sheet to help people register for a Renown MyChart account if they have not already. People do not need a Renown provider to have access to this free service. If your members do not have access to a computer, they may call our 24/7 phone line at 775-982-2781 to schedule an appointment (please plan for a wait of up to one hour, as this line is very popular.) We will provide additional updates for this priority group on our website as more information becomes available.
  • You are advised not to receive the vaccine if:
  • You are ill at the time of vaccination (fever, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea or acute illness).
  • You have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the previous 14 days.
  • You have received any other vaccination in the last 14 days.
  • You have a history of significant allergic reaction to this vaccine or any of its ingredients.
Tech Services
We are offering tech services to those who need help with accessing Zoom or our YouTube channel for worship. If you are interested, please call the office at (775)329-0696 to make an appointment. 
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
Posted on February 26, 2021 11:10 AM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast - February 19, 2021

Blessings dear Church,
 
Lent has begun!  If you have not yet watched our Ash Wednesday worship, it is available on our YouTube Channel at https://youtu.be/eNXNHdDEc7o. It is a beautiful way to start our 2021 Lenten journey.
 
Esthermae Haines Memorial Service Plans
Longtime Good Shepherd member Esthermae Haines, who was Good Shepherd’s choir director for about 10 years early in its history, died Wednesday, January 13 at age 93. She and Ron were married in 1976 by Pastor Jack Ericson. A memorial service is planned for Sunday, February 28 at 12:30 p.m. Due to COVID health restrictions, in-person attendance is limited to invited guests only. The service will be livestreamed to the Good Shepherd YouTube channel using the link https://youtu.be/dujM6bGnnu4 and will also be available as a recording on the Good Shepherd YouTube channel. Those accessing the service live are invited to use the chat feature to share a memory of Esthermae or send greetings to Ron. The notes will be saved and printed for Ron. Thanks be to God for the life of Esthermae Haines. 
 
Sunday Worship for February 21, 2021 - 1 Lent
Join us for our livestreamed Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg. You can always find our livestreams and recordings with that link, or you can go to YouTube.com and search for Good Shepherd Lutheran, Reno to find us.  You can join us there at 11am or you view the recording of the livestream any time after worship concludes.  A list of all of our worship recordings is also available on our website at goodshepherdreno.org.  You do not have to have a YouTube account to watch our videos or livestreams.  However, if you wish to "chat" in the live chat box, you will need to sign up for an account.  Our livestreams are also shown on Facebook.
 
Weekly Women’s Devotions
The Women’s Bible study group will be using the Lenten Devotional, “Again and Again – a Lenten Refrain,” provided by Good Shepherd to guide our weekly meetings through Lent. We meet via Zoom on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-7:30pm and Thursday mornings 10-11am. The Devotional booklet begins on Ash Wednesday (February 17) and our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 24. Devotionals can be picked up in the church office during office hours. For more information, contact Stephanie Leff at stephanie@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Lenten Lessons for Children and Families
During this season of Lent, you can look forward to Lenten Lessons brought to you by staff and volunteers who are involved in Kids’ Community at Good Shepherd. These lessons will be short videos posted weekly on YouTube that may also spark discussion and project ideas that you can do together at home! We will email you a link to the videos and also post them on our Facebook page. For more information contact stephanie@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Daily Devotions Online
If you are on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, we will be posting a daily message during Lent around our theme of Again & Again.  You can find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/goodshepherdreno, on Twitter at https://twitter.com/LCGSReno, or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/goodshepherdreno/.
 
NNIC Needs Donations of Items
Northern Nevada International Center's Refugee Reception & Placement department is looking for the following items for their refugee families.  If you can help, please contact Chloe Hoy-Bianchi at chloehb@nnic.org.
  • TV with remote
  • Dresser
  • Bunkbed
  • Queen mattress pad/topper
  • Vacuum
  • Blender
  • Desk and Chair (1 set)
  • Wooden bed frame (queen)
  • White bedspread (queen)
  • Couch
 
End of Life Planning: Are You Prepared?  A Workshop with Pr. Scott Trevithick, Monday, March 1, 4pm on Zoom 
This time of COVID separation has given us all time to think about relationships, time together, and other things we deeply value. It may also prompt us to think about the challenges of isolation, the difficulty of accessing health care, and what we would do if we were to experience a personal crisis, health-related or otherwise. These thoughts may also cause us to reflect on our own end-of-life wishes and plans. 
 
In response to these kinds of concerns, Pastor Scott will be leading a Zoom adaptation of the Planning for the End-of-Life workshop he has led before with congregations, general audiences, and at the Synod Assembly. Through presentation, discussion, and personal reflection, participants will be able to consider their own end-of-life wishes, understand their options and resources, and formulate a plan to specify their wishes to family members and other trusted friends. They will have the opportunity to create an action plan which will include steps to take to specify their own end-of-life wishes including: Memorial Service planning, disposition of one’s body, expressing one’s wishes with family, and considering a legacy gift
 
The workshop is set for Monday, March 1 at 4 p.m. via Zoom. Please RSVP to Pr. Scott Trevithick at PrScott@goodshepherdreno.org so he can provide workshop handouts and the link to the Zoom meeting. 
 
Emergency Contact Info
Another preparation step you can take, which will give you peace of mind, is to provide emergency contact information to the church office. Contact the church office at 329-0696 or ciara@goodshepherdreno.org to provide emergency contact information for a relative or close friend which can be entered into your record in the church database. Include your name and your contact’s name, relationship to you, phone, and email.
 
Shared Harvest for February
The last day to donate food for this month's Shared Harvest is Thursday, February 25.  You may drop off your items at the church office on Monday between 9am and 4:30pm or Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday between 9am and 2pm.  The bin will be outside the Office front door for your safety and convenience. Our February shopping list includes:
  • Peanut Butter (We need 17 jars.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Powdered Milk Packets (We need 26 packets.)
  • Chicken Noodle Soup (We need 26 cans.)
  • Toothpaste and toothbrushes (We need as many as possible.)
  • Bar Soap (We need as many as possible.)
 
2nd Mile Offering for February
This month's 2nd Mile Offering benefits National AMMPARO (Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities). You can mail a check for 2nd Mile any time during the month or drop it off in the mail slot at the church office.  Please write 2nd Mile on your memo line of your check.
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
Posted on February 22, 2021 11:34 AM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast - February 5, 2021

Good Morning!
I miss being able to say that to you in-person each Sunday morning. We are nearing the season of Lent and despite the pandemic and our limitations with it, we are planning some safe events for you. Please read on . . .
 
Sunday Worship for February 7, 2021
Join us for our livestreamed Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg or you can view the livestream recording any time after worship concludes.
 
Women’s Coffee Hour
All women are invited to join a Women’s Coffee Hour next week! All you need to do is grab a cup of coffee (or your favorite beverage) and take some time to catch up with your friends from Good Shepherd. We will meet on Zoom for about an hour. The meetings times are Wednesday, February 10 at 6:30pm and Thursday, February 11 at 10:00am. Please let Stephanie know if you have any questions. stephanie@goodshepherdreno.org
 
Reserve your Ash Wednesday/Lenten Bag!
Ash Wednesday is February 17 (didn’t we just celebrate Christmas?). As we did for Christmas Eve, we are putting together Lenten Bags to assist you on your Lenten journey beginning with Ash Wednesday. Each home kit will include a candle, ashes, a kit for planting as part of Ash Wednesday worship, Lenten Devotion booklet, devotional cards, and individual communion containers for Ash Wednesday Holy Communion. If you would like to reserve a Lenten Bag, please call 329-0696 or email the church office at ciara@goodshepherdreno.org to reserve your kit and let us know how many will need a communion kit.  Then, plan to stop by the church office beginning Wednesday, February 10 – 17 to pick up your kit. Please, please reserve your kit in advance so we are ready for you when you pick it up.  Hours to pick up the kits are: 
  • Wednesday, February 10 – 9am – 2pm
  • Thursday, February 11 – 9am – 2pm
  • Monday, February 15 – 9am – 4:30pm
  • Tuesday, February 16 – 9am – 2pm
  • Wednesday, February 17 (Ash Wednesday) – 9am – 2pm
February Justice Huddle
Justice Huddle will meet through a conference call on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm, for a general discussion about political events and issues.  Please contact Bambi Gillette or Barbara Gruenewald for more information. 
 
Business Directory – Do you own your own business?
We have mentioned this in the last few eblasts, and we would love to include more of you. It does not matter what kind of business/service you own/provide; we would like to share your work with our congregation. If you would like to be included in our business directory, send your business card to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501, or email staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Tech Services
We are offering tech services to those who need help with accessing Zoom or our YouTube channel for worship. If you are interested, please call the office at (775)329-0696 to make an appointment. 
 
Shared Harvest for February
Shared Harvest is a joint ministry of several local Lutheran churches who deliver food once a month to working-poor families.  They deliver up to 52 bags of groceries each month.  While we are worshiping online, you may drop off your Shared Harvest donations at the church office on Mondays between 9am and 4:30pm or Tuesdays thru Thursdays between 9am and 2pm. The last day to drop off your donations for the February assembly is Thursday, February 25.  Our shopping list for February is:
  • Peanut Butter (We need 17 jars.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Powdered Milk Packets (We need 26 packets.)
  • Chicken Noodle Soup (We need 26 cans.)
  • Toothpaste and Toothbrushes (We need as many as possible.)
  • Bar Soap (We need as many as possible.)
2nd Mile Offering for February
This month’s 2nd Mile Offering benefits National AMMPARO (Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities). You can mail in a check for 2nd Mile anytime during the month or drop it off in the mail slot at the church office. Please write 2nd Mile on the memo line. 
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
Posted on February 08, 2021 2:41 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast - January 29, 2021

To our good shepherds,
 
I hope you have stayed warm and dry with this week’s weather.  We needed the moisture, and we certainly got it.  Be careful with your snow shoveling and driving.  A reminder about inclement weather: Good Shepherd’s office follows Washoe County School District’s weather closings.  If they close school because of weather or have a delayed start due to weather, our office will as well. This allows time for our staff to get to work safely or work remotely as we did Wednesday and Thursday.
 
Sunday Worship for January 31, 2021
Join us for our livestreamed Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg or you can view the livestream recording any time after worship concludes.
 
Business Directory – Do you own your own business?
We have mentioned this in the last few eblasts, and we would love to include more of you. It does not matter what kind of business/service you own/provide; we would like to share your work with our congregation.  If you would like to be included in our business directory, send your business card to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501, or email staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Tech Services
We are offering tech services to those who need help with accessing Zoom or our YouTube channel for worship. If you are interested, please call the office at (775)329-0696 to make an appointment. 
 
Good Shepherd Congregational Meeting Set for Sunday, February 7
We will host the annual congregational meeting on Sunday, February 7, via Zoom at 12:15 p.m. A separate email will be sent out with a link to register for the meeting as well as the meeting agenda and supporting documents.  Please watch for that email.
 
Pr. Scott’s Sermon Texts Are Available
If you would like to read Pr. Scott Trevithick’s Sunday sermons, the texts are available on our website at https://www.goodshepherdreno.org/sermon-clips. Simply click on the date of the sermon you would like to read.  You can read the text online or you can print it out for later reading.
 
Vaccine Information
Several Good Shepherd folks have begun to get scheduled for the COVID-19 vaccination shots and some have received a first shot. Here are some tips and a link for more information:
  • While you are waiting, you can help those eligible get registered, make a plan, and get to their appointment. Lots of info at NVCovidFighter.org. 
  • When it is your turn, do your part and get vaccinated. This is how we can protect our community and get back to the things we miss.
  • Thank you to the National Guard, public health staff, & volunteers for administering shots in winter temps and snowy conditions. 
  • A helpful flyer to help seniors get their vaccinations is at https://www.immunizenevada.org/sites/default/files/2021-01/IN_210086_help-a-senior-flyer_F.pdf
Shared Harvest for February
Donations for our Shared Harvest Assembly may be dropped off at the church office on Mondays from 9 to 4:30pm or Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 9am and 2pm.  The last day to donate for February is Thursday, February 25.  The bin is located outside the office door.  Our shopping list for February includes: 
  • Peanut Butter (We need 17 jars.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Powdered Milk Packets (We need 26 packets.)
  • Chicken Noodle Soup (We need 26 cans.)
  • Toothpaste and Toothbrushes (We need as many as possible.)
  • Bar Soap (We need as many as possible.)
Update on the Good Shepherd’s Clothes Closet from Sheila Freed
A former member of Good Shepherd, Terry Hoffman, has provided the following information about the Good Shepherd’s Clothes Closet.  Our congregation has supported the Clothes Closet for several years.
 
Chris Rhodes, the executive Director of the Clothes Closet, recently wrote to Mr. Hoffman, and Terry shared part of his letter:
“Your support means a lot to us as we continue to transition from our downtown location to Greenbrae Drive in Sparks.  In our new location we are surrounded by nine Title One elementary schools which gives us the opportunity to serve families that otherwise might have been reluctant to seek us out downtown.  The pandemic has slowed the renovation of our new facility on Greenbrae Drive, but we are still able to serve people on a limited basis. We continue to provide clothes to families and individuals but usually through an intermediary such as a school counselor or social worker.  A new relationship we have developed is with The Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada as well as several other charitable organizations.  With COVID-19 restrictions in place, we are not doing business as usual but are still making a difference in people’s lives.”
 
They still need people to help paint and ongoing groups to sort clothes. If you would like to help, contact Dale Anderson at 501-9222 or email dale@gsccreno.org.  They are NOT asking for clothing donations yet.  We will let you know when they are.
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
Posted on February 01, 2021 11:14 AM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast - January 22, 2021

To our good shepherds,
 
When we ask, “how are you,” your church staff really wants to know.  How about hitting replay and letting us know what’s good and what’s challenging in your lives right now.  We’re here to listen, celebrate, and commiserate.
 
Sunday Worship for January 24, 2021
Join us for our livestreamed Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg or you can view the livestream recording any time after worship concludes.
 
Business Directory – Do you own your own business?
We would like to share your businesses and services with our congregation.  If you’d like to be included in our business directory, send us your business card by January 25. We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Tech Services
We are offering tech services to those who need help with accessing Zoom or our YouTube channel for worship. If you are interested, please call the office at (775)329-0696 to make an appointment. 
 
Shared Harvest concludes for January
We are finished collecting for January’s Shared Harvest. I will post February’s shopping list next week.
 
Good Shepherd Congregational Meeting Set for Sunday, February 7
We will host the annual congregational meeting on Sunday, February 7, via Zoom at 12:15 p.m. Among the items to address: 
  • Report of the Nominating Committee for leaders for the Governing Board and Endowment Committee
  • Determine commissioners for the online Synod Assembly
  • Treasurer’s report with financial summary from 2020 and the Governing Board’s recommended 2021 budget
Typically, this meeting is held every February between the 9 and 11 a.m. services. This year, we will conduct the meeting online via Zoom at 12:15 p.m. following the livestreamed service. We will provide Zoom login information and other participation instructions. The Zoom format allows us to safely conduct formal business by allowing for information to be shared, questions to be asked and answered, and action to be taken. Please look for additional instructions in an upcoming email. 
 
January’s 2nd Mile Offering
The January 2nd Mile Offering will be distributed as follows:  1/3 to Reconciling Works (RIC), 1/3 to serve poor people locally (Project Lazarus), and 1/3 to serve poor people worldwide.
 
February Eddy House Monday Meal Signups are available
The new schedule is up and ready for your signups at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a044ea9aa2da6f49-eddy15.
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
Posted on January 25, 2021 12:11 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast – January 15, 2021

Dear Church,
 
It is with a heavy heart that we share the following:
 
David Thyse, long-time member of Good Shepherd, died peacefully on Friday, January 8, 2021 at age 92 with his daughter Connie at his side. He was born August 20, 1928 to Sigurd and Mary Thyse of Fergus Falls, MN and grew up on the family’s farm. He served in the Army from 1952-1954 and moved to Southern California in 1958. He married Bette Church, with whom he had four children: Connie, Tria, Ann, and Michael. Later in life, he married Adalia in 1985. He will be remembered by a number of family members. Over the years at Good Shepherd, David was a regular in Tuesday and Thursday Bible study groups and participated in the Journey with Christ program. He was known as a kind person with a positive attitude and deep faith who displayed a passion for others to know Christ. A memorial service is being planned. Condolences may be sent in care of David’s daughter, Connie Keeble; 2080 Brisbane Ave.; Reno, NV 89503-1416.
 
Longtime Good Shepherd member Esthermae Haines, who served as choir director of the church for about 10 years, died Wednesday, January 13 at age 93. Her husband Ron was with her. Esthermae came to Nevada in 1949 from Philadelphia. She taught music in schools, first in Tonopah and then in Reno. She opened the music department at Clayton Middle School and later at Hug High School. She worked in or was involved with a wide variety of endeavors over the years: different roles with the Reno Gazette Journal, performing with music and theater groups, working as a real estate agent, serving on the board of Nevada Opera Company, golfing, and performing with the Sheep Dip show. She and Ron were married in 1976 by Pr. Jack Ericson. At Good Shepherd, besides the choir, she or they were also involved as offering counters and shepherds reaching out to members of the church. Plans are being made for a memorial service with limited in-person attendance and live-streamed to the Good Shepherd YouTube channel. Condolences may be expressed to Ron.

 
Sunday Worship for January 17, 2021, RIC Sunday
This Sunday is Reconciling in Christ Sunday where we celebrate our commitment to welcoming people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.  Join us for our livestreamed Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg or you can view the livestream recording any time after worship concludes.
 
Office Closed January 18
The church office will be closed Monday, January 18, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We will reopen on Tuesday at 9am.
 
Good Shepherd Congregational Meeting Set for Sunday, February 7
We will host the annual congregational meeting on Sunday, February 7, via Zoom at 12:15 p.m. Among the items to address: 
  • Report of the Nominating Committee for leaders for the Governing Board and Endowment Committee
  • Determine commissioners for the online Synod Assembly
  • Treasurer’s report with financial summary from 2020 and the Governing Board’s recommended 2021 budget
Typically, this meeting is held every February between the 9 and 11 a.m. services. This year, we will conduct the meeting online via Zoom at 12:15 p.m. following the livestreamed service. We will provide Zoom login information and other participation instructions. The Zoom format allows us to safely conduct formal business by allowing for information to be shared, questions to be asked and answered, and action to be taken. Please look for additional instructions in an upcoming email. 
 
Small Business Directory – Do you have a small business? Date extended . . .
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you are a small business owner, send us your business card by January 25. We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Are You Prepared?
This time of COVID separation has given us all time to think about relationships, time together, and other things we deeply value. It may also prompt us to think about the challenges of isolation, the difficulty of accessing health care, and what we would do if we were to experience a personal crisis, health-related or otherwise. These thoughts may also cause us to reflect on our own end-of-life wishes and plans. If these things are on your mind, Pr. Scott recommends two action steps: 
 
Contact the church office at 329-0696 or ciara@goodshepherdreno.org to provide emergency contact information for a relative or close friend which can be entered into your record in the church database. Include your name and your contact’s name, relationship to you, phone, and email. 
 
Be alert to a coming invitation from Pr. Scott for an online Zoom version of his End-of-Life Planning Workshop. We’ll talk about planning a memorial service, making arrangements for one’s body, letting people know your plans, and providing a legacy gift. A Zoom meeting time is not yet set, but you may send Pr. Scott an email at PrScott@goodshepherdreno.org if you like to be sure to be notified.
 
January Shared Harvest
This Thursday is the last day to drop off your donations for the January Shared Harvest.  You can drop off your donations this week between 9am and 2pm Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Our shopping list for January:
  • Chili (We need 26 cans.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Saltine Crackers (We need 26 sleeves.)
  • Canned Tuna (We need 26 cans.)
  • Canned Vegetables (We need 26 cans.)
  • Zip-lock bags - quart size.
January’s 2nd Mile Offering
The January 2nd Mile Offering will be distributed as follows:  1/3 to Reconciling Works (RIC), 1/3 to serve poor people locally (Project Lazarus), and 1/3 to serve poor people worldwide.
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
 
Nominees for consideration at the February 7 Congregational Meeting:
 
David Soderlund
Nominee to Governing Board
 
Carol and I moved to Reno from Geneva, NY in July 2018.  We began attending Good Shepherd later that year and transferred our membership from our former congregation in 2019.  We were attracted to the worship life at Good Shepherd, the friendly and welcoming people, and the congregation's commitment to ministry in the community.
 
Carol and I met in high school in Oakland, CA.  I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University (B.S.) and University of California, Berkeley (Ph.D.).  From 1978 until my retirement in 2017, I was a member of the faculty of Cornell University in NY, serving as Professor, Associate Chair, and Chair in the Department of Entomology.  In retirement I enjoy travel and fine art landscape photography.  I also play trombone; after 20 years with the Finger Lakes Concert Band in NY, I was fortunate after we moved to find a place in the Reno Wind Symphony.
 
We moved to Reno to be close to our older son and family, who live in Reno. We also have extended families and longtime friends who live in the west.
 
I agreed to serve on the Governing Board if elected as a way for me to support the ministry of Good Shepherd.  I have extensive and diverse leadership experience in the church, not only in my former congregations but also at the synodical (ELCA Upstate New York Synod Council and Candidacy Committee) and national (ELCA Division for Ministry Board, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary Board) levels.  I hope to draw on this experience in my work on the Governing Board.
 
 
Jennifer Williamson Kem
Nominee to Endowment Committee
 
How long have you been at Good Shepherd?
I have been attending Good Shepherd since approximately 2015.  We became members in 2018. I was baptized at St. John Lutheran Church in Ocean City, New Jersey. 
 
Where do/did you work? 
We board and walk dogs and pet-sit occasionally.   I am a licensed mental health professional and provide counseling services to clients online. 
 
Are you married/family?
I live with my husband, Sotheare “Ree”.  We were married at Good Shepherd in 2018.  My parents moved in 2019 and live a few miles from us.  They became members of Good Shepherd in early 2020.
 
What hobbies do you enjoy? 
I enjoy traveling to new places and traveling to see our families on the East coast.  I bike inside and outside, weather permitting outside.  I have biked (almost) the 72 miles around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe. We garden until we forget to water or freeze kills the plants. Snowshoeing - miss the show shoe group! Hiking - miss the hiking group!
 
Why do you want to serve on the Endowment Committee? 
I am committed to the long-term growth of the community, church and members. 
 
What assets do you bring to your leadership role? 
I have my experience in my human services role working in various positions and roles in the community. 
 
What is your favorite thing about Good Shepherd? 
I love the way new people are welcomed, and the Zoom meetings while we are separated until we can meet in person again. I also loved seeing the children’s Christmas play. 
 
My husband and I have enjoyed Tables of Grace at Good Shepherd. 
I have attended two ELCA youth gatherings, in St. Louis and New Orleans. 
 
I have participated in volunteering, leading to my love of service to others. 
 
I have participated in Journey with Christ and participated in the refugee resettlement committee, and the most recent Call Team committee.
Posted on January 25, 2021 12:04 PM by Maribeth Doerr

Friday Eblast – January 8, 2021

Dear Church,
 
With the events of the past week, here is a prayer from the Bishops of Region 2 of the ELCA . . .
 
We urge the people of our congregations and ministries and all people of faith and good will to pray for peace and a quick restoration to order, as well as a peaceful transition of power in the coming two weeks. We pray –
+       for an end to the rancor of the deep political divisions that have plagued this country in recent times,
+       for those who feel their voices are not being heard to find more productive and peaceful ways to register their concerns,           
+       for the willingness for our leaders to work with those with whom they may differ to advocate for the needs of all the people they have been called to serve, 
+       for the Peace and Reconciliation of Christ to reign in our hearts. 
Amen
 
Small Business Directory – Do you have a small business? Date extended . . .
We know small businesses in our community are struggling during the pandemic, and we would like to help those in our congregation who own small businesses. If you are a small business owner, send us your business card by January 25. We plan to have the directory ready by February 1. Mail to us at 357 Clay Street, Reno, NV 89501 or email us at staff@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Sunday Worship for January 10, 2021
We are back to our regular online schedule of livestreaming Sunday worship at 11am on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZp-VxXQtNhP9ge-xNluZg.  The livestream will be recorded for viewing any time after worship concludes so don’t worry if you miss us live!
 
2021 Church Year Calendar Available
If you would like a copy of the liturgical calendar (Year B), drop by the office or call Ciara and ask to have one mailed to you.  Office hours are Monday from 9am to 4:30pm and Tuesday through Thursday from 9am to 2pm.
 
January Justice Huddle
On Tuesday, January 12, Justice Huddle will meet at 5:30 p.m., via conference call, to hear Ann Silver, CEO at Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce, speak to us about what the State of Nevada is doing about climate change. Contact Bambi Gillette or Barbara Gruenewald for information to access the conference call. 
 
New Women’s Bible Study Begins January 13
As we turn our attention to a new year, maybe you would like to spend a little more time in God’s Word this year? The Women’s Bible study group can be a great way to do that! We meet weekly via Zoom, so you can join us no matter where you live! We meet twice a week on either Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm or Thursday mornings at 10am. The new study is called “Love the Loveless” which is a study of the book of Jonah. It is a four-week study that will begin January 13 and 14. You can download the Bible study free here: Jonah Bible Study Journals - Free Online Bible Study | Love God Greatly.  If you would like more information about this great opportunity to study God’s work with other women from Good Shepherd, contact Stephanie Leff at stephanie@goodshepherdreno.org.
 
Are You Prepared?
This time of COVID separation has given us all time to think about relationships, time together, and other things we deeply value. It may also prompt us to think about the challenges of isolation, the difficulty of accessing health care, and what we would do if we were to experience a personal crisis, health-related or otherwise. These thoughts may also cause us to reflect on our own end-of-life wishes and plans. If these things are on your mind, Pr. Scott recommends two action steps: 
 
Contact the church office at 329-0696 or ciara@goodshepherdreno.org to provide emergency contact information for a relative or close friend which can be entered into your record in the church database. Include your name and your contact’s name, relationship to you, phone, and email. 
 
Be alert to a coming invitation from Pr. Scott for an online Zoom version of his End-of-Life Planning Workshop. We’ll talk about planning a memorial service, making arrangements for one’s body, letting people know your plans, and providing a legacy gift. A Zoom meeting time is not yet set, but you may send Pr. Scott an email at PrScott@goodshepherdreno.org if you like to be sure to be notified.
 
January Shared Harvest
While we are worshiping online, you may drop off your Shared Harvest donations at the church office on Mondays between 9am and 4:30pm or Tuesdays through Thursdays between 9am and 2pm. The last day to drop off your donations for the January assembly is Thursday, January 21. Our shopping list for January:
  • Chili (We need 26 cans.)
  • Macaroni and Cheese (We need 35 boxes.)
  • Saltine Crackers (We need 26 sleeves.)
  • Canned Tuna (We need 26 cans.)
  • Canned Vegetables (We need 26 cans.)
  • Zip-lock bags - quart size.
 
January’s 2nd Mile Offering
Every month, we take a special offering called the “2nd Mile Offering” which is over and above the regular offerings received. Each month we focus on a different ministry in our Synod. Feel free to send in a separate offering for 2nd Mile anytime during the month and write “2nd Mile” on the memo line. The January 2nd Mile Offering will be distributed as follows:
  • 1/3 to Reconciling Works (RIC)
  • 1/3 to serve poor people locally (Project Lazarus)
  • 1/3 to serve poor people worldwide.
Office Hours
Office hours are Monday from 9am to 4:30pm and Tuesday through Thursday from 9am to 2pm.
 
The peace of the Lord be with you all during these stressful times.  Reach out to us if you need help!
 
Maribeth Doerr
Director of Operations and Pastoral Care
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
www.goodshepherdreno.org
(775) 329-0696, ext. 100
 
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
Posted on January 11, 2021 1:46 PM by Maribeth Doerr

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