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Join us every Sunday at 10:00am for worship!
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Find sermons, events, and our weekly bulletin at
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Dear friends in Christ,
Today I have a bit of a sermon preview.
On Sunday, we will be hearing Paul’s sermon to the Athenians on Mars Hill as found in Acts 17:16-31. As I’m pondering the text, one Greek word (which may appear in the sermon) keeps standing out to me. The word is translated as “amateur” in our Common English Bible, and is used in the build-up to the sermon on Mars Hill.
Acts 17:18: Certain Epicurean and Stoic philosophers engaged Paul in discussion too. Some said, “What an amateur! What’s he trying to say?”…
Other translations read “babbler,” “chatterer,” “show off,” or “word scatterer.” This word in the Greek literally reads ‘seed picker’ — like a chicken pecking at seeds, first one and then another. It is an evocative image. It is also a critique of Paul and his scattered thoughts, implying that he is quoting from this and that without following a proper form of argument. The CEB’s translation ‘amateur’ reminds us that Paul is speaking to professional philosophers, and probably Paul doesn’t fully understand how they do things. Yet the philosophers are curious, and so they bring Paul to Mars Hill to continue their discussion.
When I was in college, there was a philosophy major who loved to bait Christians. He would seek out any underclassman wearing a cross and engage them in a brutal philosophical discussion over a meal. It felt abusive, but also a rite of passage, to be chosen to be part of one of these debates.
And so, when I imagine Paul at Mars Hill, I imagine trained philosophers picking on Paul, continuing to call him just a seed-picker. But that may not be a fair characterization because, in the text that we have, Paul holds his own, delivering a neatly organized sermon. And while some in attendance scoff, others believe the
message.
I wonder, when have you been “out of your league” in a discussion? How did you feel? Were you able to remain curious about the other person while in the midst of defending your position? This passage has many things to teach us, not the least of which is the importance of continuing in dialogue with people whose beliefs differ from ours.
It is important to know that I have written this before writing the sermon — so I encourage you to join me for worship on Sunday as we dive more deeply into the text and ponder this event in Paul’s life.
In Christ,
Pastor Amy
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Image: Koronaios, George E. (2019).
The Acropolis from the Areopagus on
July 22, 2019. Wikimedia Commons.
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Acropolis_from_the_Areopagus_on_July_22,_2019.jpg
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SCRIPTURE
May 3
Acts 17:16-31
John 1:16-18
May 10
Philippians 1:1-18a
Luke 9:46-48
Read these passages online here |
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COMMUNION SUNDAY COLLECTION
As is our tradition, we will be collecting donations of shelf-stable items (canned goods, non-perishable food items, etc.) for our friends at Neighborhood House Free Food Market during Communion this Sunday.
This continues to be a source of joy and great thanks from Neighborhood House and your generosity is greatly appreciated all around. Jeannette Kloos was able to deliver 50 lbs. of food to Neighborhood House on 4/20, after our potluck event. Let's see if we can top that amount this Sunday! |
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MAY DAY AT THE CAPITOL
If you're available tomorrow and interested in joining Together Lab as they gather alongside members of clergy from all faiths, friends, and workers throughout the state for a day of prayer and fasting, here is the information you need:
When: Friday, May 1 from 11:00am – 2:30pm
Where: Oregon State Capitol (900 Court St., Salem)
Oregon Food Bank will be providing buses to Salem from Portland, Tillamook, Eugene, and the Gorge. Seats are limited and will be on a first come first serve basis (a waitlist will be opened when they've reached capacity). If you would like take advantage of this, you can sign up here. If you're unable to make it, but would like to know more about other events happening around the state for May Day, check out the events page at Day Without an Immigrant. |
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NEW POLICY ON ICE ENCOUNTERS & CALL TO ACTION
St. Andrew’s appears to be at very low risk of an encounter with Immigration Enforcement agents seeking access to the building. And we don’t track the immigration status of anyone. But just in case agents confront us or one of our tenants, we have developed a policy for dealing with them. We intend to follow the law, while at the same time keeping people safe. Copies of the policy are available in the narthex and the office.
While we have the policy, we need some people to help us implement it. Please let Amy Houchen, Gail Planck, or Kara in the office know if you know of an immigration attorney to consult in case of encounters, or if you are willing to be a liaison willing to deal with immigration agents. We will train you on what to do.
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INTERFAITH EARTH SUMMIT
Join Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (EMO) on a joyful journey at the 13th annual Oregon Interfaith Earth Summit on May 17 from 1-3pm.
REGISTER NOW
This year’s Earth Summit is an invitation to:
- Re-Connect with people like you across Oregon who seek a safe, healthy, abundant and beautiful world for all.
- Re-Imagine your community, resilient and thriving with nature.
- Re-New your commitment to action, and find your place in the movement.
The Interfaith Earth Summit is an opportunity for people of faith and goodwill to gather locally around a shared care for our neighbors and the environment we all depend on. Through Zoom, we will connect our statewide community. For more information, visit EMO's website.
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COLLABORATIVE CONVERSATIONS
Our Presbytery is holding two more
Collaborative Conversations events -- register now for one or both and help "build a greater sense of community across the Presbytery."
The Offering Plate—Friend, Foe, or Relic?
Thursday, May 7
Topic Summary:
Church giving has evolved… and maybe gotten a little confusing or more interesting? What does giving look like in your congregation these days?
And… is anyone else wondering what to do when the plate comes by, but you already gave online? 😅
Come join the conversation as we share what’s working, what isn’t, and what we’re still figuring out together.
Service of Justice and Hope
Tuesday, May 19
7:00pm
Hosted by: Rev. Tom Ulrich, Presbytery of Santa Fe
Topic Summary:
This will be a time to come together as a community of faith to:
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name what is heavy on our hearts
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listen for God’s presence in the midst of struggle
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offer one another words of peace and encouragement
You are invited to come as you are.
Bring your concerns. Bring your laments. Bring your wisdom. Together, we will hold space for one another and trust that God meets us.
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THIS 2027 EVENT
The Association of Partners in Christian Education (APCE) is made up of those who are serving or have served in educational ministries, as ministers, professional or volunteer educators, or students, in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the Reformed Church in America, The Presbyterian Church in Canada, and the Moravian Church in America.The purpose of the APCE is to advance educational ministries in the Church and increase the ongoing witness of our faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Please save the date(s) for the 2027 APCE Annual Event, which will take place from January 27-30 (in person at the Marriott Downtown Waterfront and online). The theme of the event will be from the same Ezekiel passage that Rev. Carmen will preach on this Sunday and there will be a number of workshops to attend and vendors to support.
Our very own Roberta Schlechter is co-chairing the organization of this event alongside Pastor Joyce Emery. We lift up prayers for wisdom, peace, and stamina as their team addresses logistical hurdles present in any event planning project; for team unity, clear communication, and a shared experience of the joy of service; and for attendee impact (may the event serve its purpose for every individual who participates).
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CHOIR REHEARSAL
Rehearsals take place after service in the chapel each week.
Everyone is welcome; just bring a love of singing. For more information, contact Don Feely.
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SPIRITUAL FORMATION AT ST. ANDREW'S
Our next class starts in two weeks! We hope you will join us!
If you've been wondering about this group and/or want to join the discussion of the next book (
Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard Rohr), stop in to the lounge on Wednesday, May 20 from 12:30-2:00pm. |
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This group is always a drop-in gathering -- no need to have read the book! Please contact Amy or Jan if you have questions. |
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SUPPER CHURCH
Supper Church is mixing things up and will now meet on the 3rd Sunday of the month after service -- we'll see how it goes and determine future gathering dates and times as we hear from those in attendance (and anyone who's wanted to join us but hasn't yet been able to make it!).
Please mark your calendars and plan to attend Supper Church on Sunday, May 17. Guests are always welcome! Questions? Please email Roberta Schlechter.
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ST. ANDREW'S BOOK CLUB
Our next meeting will be at 10am on Thursday, May 21st at which time we'll discuss the book will be
The Women by Kristin Hannah.
Whether it's your first time attending a book club (ours or one in general), or if you're a seasoned reader with lots of book club experience, ALL are welcome. We hope you will join us!
If you have suggestions or questions, contact Sarah (Sadie) Pullen.
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BE A "COFFEE ANGEL" DURING FELLOWSHIP
Volunteers are always needed on Sundays to make post-worship coffee hour & fellowship happen. If you would like to sign up for one or more Sundays, click here to sign up. Contact Marie Dolson or Gail Planck for more info.
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MEN'S BIBLE STUDY
Whether you are new to studying the Bible or someone who considers themself a student of the Word, this men's study group is looking for you. Come as you are (in comfy clothes and/or with coffee in hand) and log on to Zoom every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7:00am.
Set your alarm and jump right in to group discussion, contemplation, and prayer. Contact Larry Kelley for more information. |
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If you have any questions about our ministries or would like to be a part of our Mission Team, contact Marilyn Palumbo |
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ST. ANDREW'S QUILTERS
Come join us at 9:30am on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month (in the quilting room at St. A's) and find out about the beautiful creations this group makes and donates to organizations that provide warmth to those in need. All are welcome! Please contact Gail Planck for more information. |
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ZIPLOC MINISTRY
First Saturday of Each Month
10:30am-12:00pm - Ziploc bag filling and donation drop-off
Each month, St. Andrew's sends large Ziploc bags filled with essential items to distribute to those in our community who have found themselves without a home. Thanks to generous donors, along with additional Neighborhood Ministries funds, we receive enough funding each month to cover these costs. We are grateful to be able to continue this important work.
So what can you do to help? It has been brought to our attention the constant need for donations of new socks and new men's boxer-briefs, for many of our ministry partners. These can be dropped off at our next Ziploc bag filling (June 6th), at worship on Sundays, or during office hours.
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LEND A HAND TO MSRV
St. Andrew's supports the Multnomah Safe Rest Village (MSRV) in partnership with the Friends of Multnomah Safe Rest Village. Under the ownership of Urban Alchemy, our unhoused neighbors are provided clean hygiene facilities and offered healthy meals, through an approach that supports guests’ physical and mental health, as well as by empowerment and skill training.
How can you help?
- Speak out to support the MSRV and dispel misconceptions!
- Sign up to make and drop off sandwiches (and easy-to-chew snacks, if you're so inclined) for FMSRV Sandwich Mondays.
- Drop off donations of food, gently used clothing, new hygiene items, and pet food.
- Get involved! Opportunities are available to serve meals, assist with art or garden projects, and engage with the community by Tabling at Hillsdale Farmers Market.
- Put up a "We Support FMSRV lawn sign." (Text Robin at 503-703-7183 for info.)
- Visit the Friends of Multnomah Safe Rest Village website, and join their Facebook group for updates, news, photos, and connections.
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SERVING OUR NEIGHBORS
We always need more volunteers who love to cook. If you’d like to share in serving our neighbors at WWCS, check out the link here. Reimbursement for cost of ingredients is available.
Casseroles are dropped off at St. A’s during the first Saturday Ziploc event.
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SOUTHWEST OUTREACH
Southwest Outreach is an active civic group connecting with our neighbors living outside in SW Portland through visits, conversation, and relationship-building through a variety of programs and services.
If you see (or know of) someone living outside in our area and you are uncertain how or whether to approach, you can always contact Southwest Outreach for a team to visit them. Call Marilyn Palumbo at 971-235-5788.
Shower Program
Now located at Village Grace Church, this weekly SW Outreach shower program is a welcome day center for people being displaced in our area. Our guests find a few peaceful hours to get a shower and a hot meal, connect with resources, and engage in conversation.
Request for Electronic Devices
Many of our neighbors who live outside desperately need electronic devices: phones, tablets, laptops, and portable WiFi hotspots.This connects them to the world of housing, medical care, employment, emergency services and other resources. If you have a device in any condition that is usable or can be repaired, please contact Marilyn Palumbo. The device should be reset to factory status from the settings menu. We’ll help with that if needed! Thank you.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in volunteering with this important and effective group, contact Marilyn Palumbo. You can also contact them if you’re worried about someone in the neighborhood who might be houseless and needing help. St. Andrew's is the fiscal sponsor of SW Outreach. You can make money donations through our website, choosing 'SW Outreach' in the drop-down menu. |
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Virtual Gatherings & Events
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Sunday, May 3 & 10
10:00am Worship
(also in person)
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If you need assistance getting to or from the church, please call
Larry Kelley at 503-724-1966. |
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Kara's working on adding some website management and graphic design to her list of skills -- the updates to our current website seem easy enough to do, but require some time and testing before we're able to "go live." We appreciate your patience! |
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That said, as soon as the website has been updated, you'll be seeing the new format for this weekly newsletter rolling out, with links to information about fellowship groups, mission work, and other activities at St. A's that happen on a recurring basis.
As noted previously, this will provide readers with a "TLDR" (Too Long, Didn't Read) snapshot of what's happening in and around the church, reduce the need for endless scrolling to check something in the eNews, and allow us to keep this newsletter focused on the very latest announcements we feel you should aware of while keeping key resources available elsewhere. |
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ST. ANDREW'S NAME TAGS
As part of our welcome and when passing the peace, name tags help put names with faces - a crucial part of fellowship! Stop by the tower by the sanctuary doors in the narthex and grab your name tag and wear it during worship. (Don't forget to return it there after service so you'll have it next week too!)
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If you don't see yours, ask one of our welcome team members if we already have an updated one on hand. If you're new, you've misplaced your name tag, or we missed creating a tag for you when we recently made all new ones for everyone, please contact the office and we will be happy to make you a name tag for future use. |
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DISABLED STREET PARKING ACCESS
Please note that the street parking along SW Sunset is reserved for picking up and dropping off those who need extra assistance getting inside for worship on Sundays. We ask that you please leave these spaces open and not park there. There is plentiful parking in our lot across Dosch.
Those needing assistance can also use the driveway on Dosch for dropping off and picking up, and take the elevator up to the main level. If you have any questions or need further assistance on Sundays please contact the office. |
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FLOWERS FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP
If you would like to recognize a special occasion or person (e.g., birthdays, anniversaries) or memorialize a loved one by placing flowers on the chancel, please contact Bev Ruggles to confirm a date.
(Contact the office for Bev's phone number if you don't have it.) |
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NATIONAL SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE
People experiencing a mental health crisis have a way to reach out for help in the U.S., by calling or texting the numbers 9-8-8. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. It will function much like 9-1-1, but is solely dedicated to addressing mental health needs. Click here for more information on this potentially lifesaving program, and help spread the word. |
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Member Database access is available anytime. Contact the office to get set up. |
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For online giving please visit:
standrewspdx.com/give
Thank you for continuing to support the ministries of St. Andrew's through your online donations and checks sent by mail.
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Kara Errico, Office Administrator/Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator
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