Page 4 - My Story. Our Story. God's Story.

homes, such as crackers, flatbread, juice or wine. This practice mirrored the early
Christian tradition of gathering in homes for shared meals. Members sensed their

connection to the broader Community of Saints across time and place.

In the April 2020 edition of The Voice newsletter the headline read, “The Work We
Do in Jesus’ Name Goes On” and so it did.

The newly constructed outdoor portico functioned as a central point for a range of
activities. These activities included the collection of Food Bank donations, amassing

a significant total of 5,525 pounds or nearly 3 tons of food within a few weeks!
Additionally, the distribution of food to families facing food insecurity was carried

out through the BackPack Program and contributions to the Kicks for Kids campaign
provided new shoes for kids in need. Valentine's Day cards were collected and

delivered to teachers, front line workers and our shut-ins. These few examples
showcase some of the many ways we continued to fulfill our mission to serve as

disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Gifts of Hope, our annual alternative giving market every December, was

successfully transitioned to a 100% virtual format, achieving a new giving record of
$16,000 in 2020! Giving expanded beyond First Lutheran members to donors

from seven states and Ireland who also generously contributed to various non-profit
organizations. This adaptation underscored our commitment to making a positive
impact, continuing to serve the community despite a pandemic and evidence that

"church" was not closed.

Innovative opportunities for fellowship were also present during this period. Virtual
"coffee talks," book discussions and game nights were among the various ways

members connected. A First Lutheran Fellowship Facebook group was initiated,
garnering 108 members who shared their favorite Christmas traditions, holiday

decoration photos and safe vacation getaways. Our parking lot transformed into a
festive venue for Christmas carols in December 2020, where large speakers from
the Chapel projected music towards the lot as members led the singing from inside.

We sang from our individual cars and afterward enjoyed the hot chocolate with