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Clickable Table of Contents |
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Join us every Sunday at 10:00am for worship!
Don't miss a thing!
Find sermons, events, and our weekly bulletin at
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Thoughts from Your Session |
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Dear friends in Christ,
Monday was Pastor Amy's last day in the office as St. Andrew's Bridge Pastor and her absence is already felt ... but that also allows us time to reflect on the months she served here and appreciate her all the more. As she's noted, she will continue to worship and fellowship with us from time to time, serve as moderator of the Session, and coordinate pastoral care until a Transitional Pastor arrives.
During this period of transition, we want to make sure everyone stays in the loop with everything happening behind the scenes. Starting this week, the Session will be sharing quick, weekly updates right here in this email!
While you can still find information regarding our ministries and mission work (as well as fellowship opportunities) on the calendar, in the Sunday bulletin, and on Facebook, these email updates will give you a direct look into Session decisions, structural updates, and answered prayers.
- Yesterday (July 1) marked a change in leadership for the Worship Team, as Barb Leahey ended her term as Elder and Carol Patterson joined Amy Houchen to serve as co-Elders for this team.
- The Transitional Pastor Search Committee continues to review applications and set up interviews for the Transitional Pastor position.
- Clergy, staff, and volunteers will be signing an annual acknowledgment confirming they have read, understand, and will abide by the sexual misconduct and child protection policy.
- Many structural improvements have been made by the Building & Grounds team in May and June to ensure the safety of all who visit our building, including:
- Painting in the patio and turnaround areas,
- Replacing a support column and beam by the Vermont Hills entrance stairs and re-tiling the roof in that area
- PBOT repaved the section of Dosch Road where vehicles often park (thanks in large part to Councilwoman Olivia Clark!)
- The church contracted with a welder to repair and reinstall the railing along our walkways.
If there is anything you would like to know more about that has not been highlighted here, please reach out to Kara and we can provide updates in the next edition of this eNews. We are excited to keep the lines of communication wide open as we grow together!
In Christ,
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church Session
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Image: Kwerfeldein.
Hope and Pain, from Art in the Christian Tradition, a project of the Vanderbilt Divinity Library, Nashville, TN.
https://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-imagelink.pl?RC=54357 [retrieved June 9, 2026]. Original source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kwerfeldein/1588593670/.
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SCRIPTURE
July 5
Esther 1:1-13, 15-22
Luke 1:68-72
July 12
1 Timothy 1:12-17
Luke 15:4-7
Read these passages online here |
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I'd like to extend a BIG thank-you to everyone for your well-wishes and gifts on Sunday. I will treasure the beautiful quilt, the thoughtful books, and the many notes. You are indeed a warm and caring congregation and I have enjoyed my time serving as your Bridge Pastor.
I will continue on as your Session Moderator until the Transitional Pastor is on board. I will also coordinate pastoral care needs. Please reach out to me, or contact the office, if you would like a visit from a pastor or for other concerns. I will respond, or ask the Deacons or one of our pastor friends from St. A's to respond.
And don't forget to look for me in the pews -- I will continue to worship with you when our schedules align.
In Christ,
Amy Delaney |
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We donated 75 lbs of food to our friends at Neighborhood House Free Food Market this past Sunday during our potluck, but this Sunday is our next Communion Sunday collection. You can find a list of most-requested items at the end of this newsletter -- let's see if we can top our last donation drop-off! Thanks to all who continue to support this organization and the people they serve. |
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Thank you so much to everyone who participated in our picnic themed potluck on Sunday! Kudos to the committee members (Gail, Carol, and Marie) for another joyous celebration and to Todd Kloos for event setup and teardown. It was a well-attended event and served as the perfect sendoff for Pastor Amy as she ended her Bridge Pastor term with us. Stay tuned for information about the next potluck -- likely occurring in the Fall. |
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CUBA UPDATE: SOLAR PANELS FUNDED & INSTALLED
What would you do if you only had 4 hours of electricity out of 24?
How do you prioritize your needs?
How to do plan meals when you don’t know when there will be power to cook a meal?
How do you keep food from spoiling in your refrigerator?
What do you do during the hours of darkness with no power?
How can you stay cool when the temperature is in the 100s?
What if you need oxygen or other medical devices that require power?
What do you do when financial assistance isn't easy to coordinate because there are no banks to transfer money to directly?
These are some of the thoughts that go through my head as I think about the current reality in Cuba, driven by the US blockade of oil needed to generate power. Our Cuban partners have been inventive in living with the devaluation of their currency, the cuts in their pensions, the lack of necessary items on the shelf to buy at any price, the standstill of public transportation to attend medical or other appointments, etc. Now they are living largely as they did pre-electricity. Pioneer days!
Fortunately, the Santa Clara congregation used the help of their several partner churches like St. Andrew’s to install solar panels. This leaves them less at the mercy of the power grid. It also permits them to offer a free mid-day meal to seniors, for whom this may be the only warm meal of their day. The freezer can keep food frozen until ready to minister to their community. The lights can stay on during dark days to illuminate dominoes and other activities that help isolated seniors feel they are not alone.
Can we protect our friends from all economic disaster? No. Can we do our part, alongside congregations from South Carolina, Florida, and Germany. Absolutely! We are thankful for the giving heart of our congregation that helps in so many ways.
Written by Laurie Donald, Mission Team member
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Dear brothers and sisters in faith: When I served on the St. Andrew’s staff (1990s-2009), I was encouraged and financially supported as I worked my way through the extensive PC(USA) Certified Christian Educator training. Now, as Elder of Christian Formation, I’d like to share a bit of what I’ve learned, with a brief message each month.
The final ORDINATION QUESTION that Elders and Deacons respond to, touches on everything we do: the way we earn and spend our money ... the way we treat the world’s resources ... the way we vote. A great deal is expected of us, and the demand is too much to bear alone. WE need the nurture and fellowship of the whole church. And the church needs the same from us.
Question #6:
Do you PROMISE to further the peace, unity, and purity of the church?
Three words that elevate: PEACE, UNITY, PURITY. We are called to be agents of faithfulness and obedience. Webster’s defines “agent” as “a means or instrument by which a guiding intelligence achieves a result.” It is by the faithful ... that the church is obedient.
Our PEACE comes not from avoiding conflict. Our UNITY is based on Jesus alone. Our PURITY comes from seeking together to be faithful ... knowing that there is always more light to be shed from God’s Word.
TRUST... BELIEVE ... ACCEPT ... ADOPT ... BE LED ... ABIDE BY ... BE A FRIEND ... FOLLOW ... LOVE ... RECONCILLIATION... SERVE ... PROMISE
So there you have it ... a body of questions and language ... imperfect verbs - the ongoing, open-ended, sustaining kind - that ordain us to faith and fellowship ... to mission and hospitality ... to ministry and service; Those things that feed and nurture us, the body of Christ. It’s a lot to take in. We have a lifetime of days ... and not a day to lose.
Roberta Schlechter, CCE
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RESPONSE TO VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKES
Your Mission Team gathered yesterday to discuss the humanitarian effort of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) in response to the recent earthquakes that have devastated Venezuela and agreed upon a donation of $1,500 to help with the relief efforts. We trust that PDA knows where the need is greatest and that the people of Venezuela will benefit in some small way as they begin a long recovery process. If you feel moved to assist in meeting these needs (the most urgent of which are shelter, hygiene items, water, and food), you may send your gift to PDA by any of the methods shown below.
GIVE:
Scan the QR code to give online, give by phone at 800-728-7228 x5885, or write a check (made payable to Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) with “PDA Venezuela Earthquakes” on the memo line) and mail to:
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
P.O. Box 643700
Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700 |
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PRAY:
The Venezuelan people also need our prayers at this time and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has given us the following for that purpose:
God of mercy and hope,
We come to you with a broken heart for our siblings in Venezuela.
In the midst of the pain caused by earthquakes, we turn to you,
our firm rock, when the earth itself shakes.
Lord, move our hearts so that solidarity is not temporary.
It raises churches, communities and people willing to walk with the Venezuelan people during the long process of recovery and
reconstruction.
May compassion be stronger than indifference and may hope prevail over discouragement.
Amen |
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JOIN US TOMORROW
Each week on Friday mornings, we meet (virtually) to catch up after a long week, share stories, ask for prayers, and enjoy the fellowship through the screen as we sip on a hot beverage of our choice.
We would love for you to join us! Please see the Zoom link below (in Virtual Events) to connect with others for this weekly Coffee Chat. |
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SUPPER CHURCH
Changes are afoot for our family fellowship currently known as Supper Church (a new name is coming, so stay tuned!). Please mark your calendars and plan to join us in Friendship Hall (the gym) after service next Sunday, July 12.
Supper Church is a family-friendly time of fellowship that includes a Bible story and craft for kiddos in attendance (and a chance for adults to relax and chat with one another). Guests are always welcome!
Questions? Please email Roberta Schlechter.
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SPIRITUAL FORMATION AT ST. ANDREW'S
We hope you will stop by and join us at our next gathering, as we continue to discuss
Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard Rohr.
No need to have read the book! This is always a drop-in group. We hope to see you in the lounge on Wednesday, July 15 from 12:30-2:00pm. Questions? Please contact Amy or Jan. |
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
We are always looking for assistance in making our post-worship coffee hour and fellowship possible each week. 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
St. A's Men's Bible Study will be taking a break next week, due to holiday plans for the July 4th weekend.
Please join us in this virtual Men’s Bible Study on Zoom when we resume on Wednesday, July 15 at 7:00am.
Can't make it for this next study session? Not to worry! This group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays each month using this same Zoom link. Contact Larry Kelley for more information. |
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In this new section, you will find information about events published by the Presbytery of the Cascades and other local churches and like-minded groups who uphold the vision, values, and mission of St. Andrew's. By supporting those beyond our walls, we show that the Connectional Church helps us achieve more together than we ever could alone. |
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WHAT WOULD MARTIN LUTHER ASK CHATGPT?
Should Christians be paying attention to Artificial Intelligence?
Well... the Pope is talking about it. The World Council of Churches is talking about it. Your children or grandchildren are probably using it. And many of us are still trying to figure out exactly how it’s going to affect our future.
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Join Dr. David Barstow of First PC, Corvallis in the Prebytery's next Collaborative Conversations event. Dr. Barstow is helping develop AI responses and resources for churches through the World Council of Churches. Long before ChatGPT became a household name, David was writing his Ph.D. dissertation on Artificial Intelligence at Stanford… nearly 50 years ago.
Together we'll explore what AI is, how it is shaping our world, and how faith communities can help shape its future. Special guest appearances will include Leonardo da Vinci, Martin Luther, ChatGPT, and Claude.
Is this a call to action, an opportunity to learn, or simply a chance to understand what everyone seems to be talking about? Come find out.
WHERE: Online via Zoom REGISTER HERE!
WHEN: Wednesday, July 15 at 6pm
WHY: Because the future is arriving faster than most of us expected, and people of faith have something important to contribute to the conversation.
WHO: All are welcome. Share with your community.
A note from the Presbytery: "This announcement was brought to you by artificial intelligence, human curiosity, and several rounds of Presbyterian editing."
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Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon’s Creation Justice program invites you to this free online training on Wednesday, July 22 from 12-1 pm.
A new holy day has arrived after decades of collaboration across Christian traditions. Explore the Feast of Creation’s meaning and history, then envision this celebration in your community!
The training will be led by Rev. Richenda Fairhurst, chair of EMO’s Creation Justice Committee, member of the Coordinating Team for the United Methodist Creation Justice Movement, and co-host of the monthly Movement Cafe.
Register Today!
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Walk the Wildwood is a fundraiser for Partners In Mission-USA, organized and hosted by members of First Presbyterian Church of Portland, Oregon. Thanks to underwriting by the church, ALL money raised by this event will go directly to support the Kamwenge Secondary & Vocational School and the Good Shepherd Primary School.
This year we honor the 20th anniversary of the founding of Kamwenge Secondary and Vocational School (KSVS) to which all proceeds will go to support. Through your efforts and generosity we raise funds for students and teachers, recruiting sponsors for new students, and collecting gently worn sneakers for reuse through a program with Got Sneakers. You can register for one of three walks through Hoyt Arboretum and Washington Park, followed by a catered lunch.
EVENT DATE: Saturday, August 8th
Registration Closes on Friday, July 31st
Click Here to Register
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COVENANT CONVERSATIONS: CASCADES
Saturday, August 29, 10am - 3:30pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church
Confident in God’s hopeful future and grateful for the ever-widening welcome of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the Covenant Network of Presbyterians seeks an equity still not fully realized for LGBTQIA+ people in church and society.
Covenant Conversation: Cascades is an invitation to look more closely — at scripture, at the stories around us, and at ourselves — and to grow in our ability to recognize the image of God in all God's people.
Through worship, conversation, and a range of workshops, we'll explore what the Bible and our faith tradition have to say about inclusion, support church leaders navigating hard conversations, and ask together what it means to be faithful witnesses in a time when LGBTQIA+ rights and dignity are under real pressure. Whether you're just beginning this journey or have been walking it for years, you belong in this conversation.
Registration is $25 and includes lunch. (Discount codes are available for groups and for those in financial need or current students.)
REGISTER TODAY to join the conversation!
For information about the great topics potentially covered during the day's workshops, and to complete the registration form, click here.
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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
2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 9:30am
The St. A's Quilters work year-round to create some beautiful items that are donated to organizations that provide warmth to those in need. Whether you're a novice or have some sewing/quilting experience, we hope you will join us. All are welcome!
This group meets twice a month in the quilting room. We hope you'll stop in and join the fun! Please contact Gail Planck for more information. |
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SUPPORTING MSRV
Our friends at the Multnomah Safe Rest Village (MSRV) were grateful for the recent donation of food that was delivered after our potluck on Sunday (we had about 2 dozen hot dogs left over and a large amount of potatoes) -- arriving right as lunch was about to be served! It's a blessing to know that this food not only wasn't wasted, but that it brought some joy to a decent crew of people too.
If you'd like to make and drop off sandwiches (and easy-to-chew snacks, if you're so inclined), Friends of MSRV can always use your help. Sign up today to take part in FMSRV Sandwich Mondays.
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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.
Check out this YouTube video to see how programs like SW Outreach's weekly shower program at Village Grace Church (where guests get a shower, a hot meal, and a chance to connect with resources and engage in conversation) bless so many in need.
Volunteers are always needed as are material items (e.g., phones, tablets, laptops, and portable WiFi hotspots). of SW Outreach. You can also financially support SW Outreach (of which St. Andrew's is the fiscal sponsor) by donating online — select 'SW Outreach' in the drop-down menu when noting your designation. To get involved, please email Marilyn Palumbo.
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 to coordinate (971.235.5788). |
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Virtual Gatherings & Events
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Sunday, July 5 & 12
10:00am Worship
(also in person)
Friday, July 3 & 10
Virtual Coffee Chat
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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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SUPPORT NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE FREE FOOD MARKET
During Communion (1st Sunday service of each month) and at potlucks and other events throughout the year, we collect non-perishable food donations for Neighborhood House Free Food Market.
To further meet the need where it's greatest, we now have a list of most-requested items from our friends at Neighborhood House, which can be found below (click here to view online). |
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PREPARING FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT
Please remember to check the church calendar to note what's happening here at St. A's on any given day as part of your event preparation checklist (if arrangements have not been made prior with Kara when scheduling building use). Simply click on the calendar button next to the first heading on our Events page, or click here for direct access to this calendar. |
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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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Amy Houchen and Carol Patterson, Worship Elders
Don Feely, Director of Music Ministry
Kara Errico, Office Administrator/Neighborhood Ministries Coordinator
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