An update regarding worship from the President
We are continuing to monitor the Covid-19 situation. Council is discussing the possibility of outdoor services as we ease back into in person services. Stay tuned!
Garden Update
Thank you to all who have helped in some way in the garden at church. Roger has spent numerous hours expanding the garden and getting it ready to plant. Roger and Marilyn put up a new fence around the entire garden. Bill and Jen have helped till and prepare the garden for planting. Laura and Kaylee helped with the initial planting. There will be plants to set out soon, weather permitting. Please let Roger know if you can help.
Roger and Juli, volunteer in the garden, are asking for large rectangular planters (totes) to use in the garden. They do not have to be new or in great condition. If you have some sitting around you are not using and are willing to donate them to the garden at All Saints Lutheran Church, contact Roger (563.343.1886) or leave them between the church building and the shed. Thank you!
Financials: The 2020 average monthly amount budgeted for Undesignated Donations (Anticipated) for Ministry Investment is $7,667. You donated $ 7,363.00 in April. Also $1,325.00 was donated to the Food Pantry in April.
You donated $40.00 to mortgage reduction in April. Since inception, a total of $89,632 has been donated to the (Happy Hearts – Hopeful Future) debt reduction campaign.
The mortgage balance was $ 138,186.73 as of 04.30.2020.
From the Pastor: The corona virus pandemic has shaken the Christian Church, like no other recent event. Churches around the world have closed in fear members will be infected by the deadly virus. These are unpredictable and unstable times.
Yet even as we remain quarantined, scientists are racing to create tests, vaccinations, and treatments to prevent and cure the illness. We pray their speedy success.
As you are well aware, All Saints Lutheran Church has responded with an abundance of caution to the pandemic. But we believe we shall gather again and continue our ministry together.
I am always forward looking. All Saints Lutheran Church will survive the pandemic, but what then.
We know this congregation has a wonderful facility, great location, sufficient financial resources, and a dedicated membership. We have all the right resources to emerge from the pandemic and embrace the future together.
Roger Oliver reminded me the other day that the congregation must address stewardship issues. That is certainly true. I encourage you to maintain your financial support of our ministry.
This year I want to suggest our members look beyond immediate needs and envision the future of the congregation. I will recommend to the church council to appoint a long-range planning committee to set goals for the next ten years.When the stewardship drive comes, I hope a long-range planning committee will lay out a one-year, five-year, and ten-year plan for the development of the congregation’s life.
The times may be dark now, but we have a bright future and many God given gifts. May our stewardship lay the foundation for good works accomplished by our vision and work.
Pastor Richard Pokora
A letter from the President
30 April 2020
Dear Members of All Saints,
We have had a few inquiries as to when we will resume our “in person” worship services.
After a conversation with Pastor Pokora, it is our feeling that we will continue to have our online services at least for a few more weeks, continue to monitor the situation, and base our decision on the wider church. Despite Governor Kim Reynolds’ easing restrictions on religious gatherings, it has not been in all counties in Iowa. Scott County remains a “hot spot” for the virus. While we are anxious to get back to normal, our top priority is keeping our members safe and healthy.
We are called to love our neighbor, and that love comes by remaining physically apart.
Sincerely,
Julie Schoville, Council President
From the President: Thank you for your continued support through this crazy Covid-19 Pandemic. The mail is being picked up daily and we appreciate your monetary support to keep the bills current. You may send your offerings to the church (5002 Jersey Ridge Road, Davenport, IA 52807). Stay safe and healthy. Looking forward to seeing everyone in person when this is said and done.
A big thank you to Pastor Rich and Gwen for keeping the mid-week and Sunday services going online. To Matt, Kristen, and Rhaena for the beautiful online music, to Matt for “connecting” us, and to Bonnie, Anne and the food pantry team for being on the “front line” to serve our community. Your All Saints community appreciates it!
Important Upcoming Dates (dates are subject to change due to Covid-19)
Forum: The forum that was scheduled for Sunday, March 22 will take place later, date still to be determined. At the forum titled “Vision for the Future” we will discuss what lies ahead for All Saints Lutheran Church.
Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting (Note date change): The semi-annual congregation meeting will be Sunday, July 12, 2020.
Worship Time Change: Worship will begin at 10:00 am when we are able to worship together again in person.
Food Pantry and Clothing Closet: The food pantry will remain open, but we will give guests their box outside. The food pantry continues to be extremely busy. Thank you to all who continue to volunteer their time for this ministry. The clothing closet will be closed until further notice.