December 10, 2020
Good day siblings in Christ!
This was a surprisingly busy week, so I am getting this letter out a little late. The good news is that reconstruction of my office has begun to repair the water damage after a falling tree damaged the roof this summer. A big thank you to Lee Ann and our council for getting everything going. Our Christmas Eve service has all but two parts recorded, so it is time to start putting that together next week. Our worship team will be deciding next week what to do about Christmas Eve services, but I note that all pastors received a letter from the Bishop this week asking churches not to have in-person Christmas Eve services. We will use this as the beginning in our decision-making process.
Baby Layettes for Lutheran World Relief
We have started collecting baby items for baby care kits (layettes) for Lutheran World Relief. Traditionally, we place these items under our church Christmas tree on Christmas Eve. This year, we suggest that you place your baby items under your own tree at home and then bring them to the church in January as you are able. There is a box at the back of the sanctuary where you may place your gifts.
What goes into a layette? We need (in sizes 6 – 24 months) cotton T-shirts, gowns or sleepers (no feet so they can be worn longer); cotton or flannel receiving blankets (36”- 52” square) or knit with light weight yarn; flat cloth diapers; diaper pins; jackets, sweatshirts, or sweaters with a hood or hat; socks; hand towels (dark color); and 3 or 4 oz. bar soap in original wrapping.
LWR specifies that neutral colors are best (no pink) without any religious, camouflage, military, or flag insignia. Onesies with snaps can be cut and hemmed to make a T- shirt (our sewing group will do this), top/pants sets can be substituted for sleepers. New items only.
You can provide a complete layette or a single item. More information on what makes a complete layette is at https://lwr.org/kits/baby-care-kits/instructions. After Christmas, we will apply for a Thrivent grant to buy additional items to complete the kits. If you would like to donate instead of shop, please make your check out to Our Saviour Lutheran Church and write in the memo line “LWR Baby Layettes”. If you have questions, you may contact Karen Polacek or Frya Barnes.
Thank you!
Be love,
Pastor Johnson