Category: News

Last Sunday we began a seven-week series called “Out of the Blue” – a time before and during the Advent season in reflective waiting for Christ’s coming into the fullness of life. We gather for shared imagination around moments of surprise, occasions of awe, and instances of inspiration. We hope to discover together the astonishment of God’s work and God’s purposes among us. The bible stories in this series follow the regular lectionary (set of readings) that are offered in many Christian churches. On November 16 we gather in the theme “Days to Prepare, Seconds to Cook” – the sudden fulfillment of old preparations, dramatic changes long in the works. Endings are near and there is no doubt about it. The warnings are dire. The tone of these bible readings remains ominous. And yet, Christians are strengthened for the living of these days in word, sacrament, and community.

On Sunday, November 9, we begin a seven-week series called “Out of the Blue” – a time before and during the Advent season in reflective waiting for Christ’s coming into the fullness of life. This is a time for new beginnings. We gather for shared imagination around moments of surprise, occasions of awe, and instances of inspiration. We hope to discover together the astonishment of God’s work and God’s purposes among us. The bible stories in this series follow the regular lectionary (set of readings) that are offered in most Lutheran, Catholic, Episcopal, Presbyterian, and United Church of Christ congregations. On November 9 we gather in the theme “Beginning at Broken” – broken expectations, changed perspectives, and new life after smaller deaths and after bigger ones.

On November 2 we commemorate a three-fold feast in one. All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day (Oct. 31, Nov. 1, Nov. 2) serve as a call to all God’s people to remember everyone. The gift of All Saints’ Sunday is that all our sorrows become bearable as we recall the stories of those who have died and how their stories point to the greater story of God’s enduring love with all creation and humanity. On All Saints’ Sunday, we read aloud the names of loved ones who have died from this congregation in the last year. We call them saints, not because they were perfect, rather because they were loved by God and by us. We acknowledge that all people, being simultaneously sinners and saints, lead complex lives full of joy and sorrow. We are confident in the sure promise that at the end of our bodily life, God welcomes our loved ones and us to the fullness of eternity.

Sunday, November 2, 5 to 8 pm. Live music by the Austin Polka Band. Schnitzel and brats under the lights with a special appearance from Karli House Brew. Please bring any favorite German side-dish you wish to share and bring your favorite beverage to share. Water and Iced Tea will be provided.

Join Austin Cantorum for an evening of choral music that explores all things Nocturnal,  including works by Johannes Brahms, Francesca Hauser, Edward Elgar, Meredith Monk, and more, with a brand new commission by Austin composer Graham Yates. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $25.

On Reformation Sunday we celebrate the heart of faith: the gospel of Christ that makes us free to live God’s love fully. By the end of the 17th century, many Lutheran churches celebrated a festival commemorating All Hallows Eve, October 31, 1517, when Martin Luther posted his Ninety-five Theses in Wittenberg, Germany. These were a summary of abuses in the church of his time and his call to action. The Holy Spirit continues to reform the whole church in this age and place in mission. The church color associated with the Holy Spirit is red, and we invite you to wear some red on this Sunday.  

Pray always. Do not lose heart. This is Christ’s encouragement in the gospel story this week. Wrestle with the word. Remember your baptism. Come to Christ’s table, everyone. Persistence in our encounters with the divine will be blessed.

This Sunday we welcome Pastor Keats Miles-Wallace, of Technicolor Ministries and Monastery, the evolving queer ministry of the Southwestern Texas Synod.

To learn more, visit www.technicolorministries.com.

Oliver Rajamani will perform with Austin star Suzanna Choffel, October 16, 8 pm, at the Rosette. 

Oliver performs innovative and soul stirring original music.  His unique sound has been woven  from the cultural and musical threads of Romani (Gypsy)/folk India and Texas Americana while bringing recognition to the historical Indian origins of the Romani people.

Austin native, Suzanna Choffel is known for her distinct voice and reggae-inspired guitar technique. Her music has been described as “a unique sound equal parts Beat poetry, smoky soul grooves and indie-pop eccentricity.”

As We Pass Through, presented by Chorus Austin Chamber Ensemble

October 11 & 12, 4:00 pm, First English Lutheran Church, 3001 Whitis Ave, Austin

Click here for more info, tickets, and music previews!

Jesus’ mission includes making people whole. Unexpectedly, a Samaritan healed of leprosy becomes a model of new life as we give thanks for God’s mercy. It’s a miracle! Multiple miracles! The waters of holy baptism heal. The body, blood, and blessing of Jesus in holy communion renew. We have died with Christ and been raised with him. We are healed to be healers. For all this we have returned to offer thanks weekly. And then we are sent on our way rejoicing to share the good news.

Adult Faith Formation will resume in the parlor at 9 am. Leigh Northcutt-Benson will facilitate a lectionary-based discussion on the gospel of Luke.

Children’s Faith Formation will meet in the library at 9 am. Kate Wanstrom will lead a fun and active lesson on our health and Jesus Healing of the Ten.