Great Decisions is an 8-part series of foreign policy discussions which follow briefing books published by the Foreign Policy Association (www.fpa.org). Local residents facilitate the discussions, which take place January through March or early April.
Tuesday morning book study
This group has been meeting weekly for almost 2 decades! We pick a book to read together and then meet at 8 a.m. to begin our day with some lively and challenging discussions. Our books have been about theology, spirituality, social issues, and other related topics. Our meetings are held in the Fellowship Hall at church.
Immigration Justice Group
As part of Faith Lutheran, we endeavor to accompany and provide ministries of Justice, Mercy, and Peacemaking for our Immigrant neighbors through Education, Direct Support, and Advocacy.
Some of IJG’s projects have been and continue to be:
English as a Second Language and Citizenship Classes. These classes are held on Tuesday evenings at Peshastin/Dryden Elementary. In conjunction with these classes and to celebrate our students we have had special events such as potlucks, provided a luncheon at the Bluebird Packing Shed for workers, held an annual Cultural Festival and Naturalization Ceremony in Leavenworth and hosted many informational forums with Northwest Immigration Rights Project and US Customs and Immigration Service.
Educating members of our group, congregation, and community. We have had group readings of important books like “Welcoming the Stranger”. We have held informational forums at our church with guest speakers such as immigrants and their stories, immigration lawyers, and orchardists. We have taken many tours to places like the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma and the RACE Exhibit in Seattle.
Mentoring students (focusing on the immigrant community) who are needing assistance with applying for college and college scholarships. This is our newest and developing project through the Cascade High School.
Other projects and activities: Sew Girls learn to sew and “kids sewing for kids” sew pillowcases for young immigrants crossing the border. Worked with our local Immigration Justice/Race Group to develop and disseminate information to the community regarding Raid Response and Annually conduct fund raisers for Advocacy for Immigrants in Detention Northwest.
Midweek Study Group
For all ages and interests! We gather at different homes beginning at 10:00 a.m. with wonderful treats, relationship building, and mutual support. Studies have been on various books of the bible and other topics of interest. Gatherings are generally finished by noon.
Earth Stewardship
Since the early 90's, an Earth Stewardship group at FLC has fit into the ELCA program of Lutherans Restoring Creation. In the past five years they have been responsible for the 96 solar panels installed on the Middle School, recycling bins and water bottle filling fountains in downtown Leavenworth. These projects have been a witness to our concern for God's creation. The group meets monthly and welcomes others who are interested in creation care.
Listening for God
A stimulating discussion and support group for all. Meets monthly (usually the 3rd Thursday) in various homes to study literature as well as provide support and encouragement for our faith journey. In the midst of urgent time schedules and for some, busy parenting responsibilities this is a great opportunity for good uninterrupted adult conversation about issues of life and faith.