Greetings beloved friends and family of St. Matthew United Methodist Church
It is a point of great joy for me that in the last few weeks you have graciously and warmly welcomed the voices of women in ministry. I am thankful for these who have shared their theology and history with our congregation. Our recognition of the 70th Anniversary of Women in Ministry marks a meaningful addition to the ministries of St. Matthew. It also helps us fulfill our goal of embracing diversity as we have provided a safe and affirming space for historically marginalized voices to be heard. In the future, we will continue to have special events focused on showcasing the voices of the marginalized. Thank you for being on this adventure with me.
Our Fall Festival is about 10 days away! I am excited and nervous. I am also reminded that this event, carried out to honor God and welcome our neighbors, will be successful even if one life, or one family who attends has a better life because we are here. There are many moving parts and quite a few of them are complicated. But I am encouraged and empowered by the way all of you have embraced this work and are willing to do ministry in this neighborhood. This is so much more than a typical fall festival. This is our introduction to the Eastside! We are making disciples for Jesus Christ with the intention of transforming our area of this world. Thanks be to God for the chance to do so.
There are loads of other things happening at St. Matthew as well. The Rev. Julia Puac-Romero will be preaching for us this Sunday, All Saints Sunday, November 1st. We will complete our Women in Ministry series on November 8, 2026 with the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Pick preaching for us. We have experienced some of the best preaching in our conference as part of this series. We have also been able to hear the message of the gospel through the voice of United Methodist clergy. Thank you for being the kind of congregation that welcomes the words and wisdom of others. All of our guest speakers have told me that this is the most welcoming and friendliest congregation that they know. You are God’s amazing and beloved children, and you make others feel the same.
St. Matthew Women’s United Luncheon is November 12, 2026. Gathering begins at 11:30 with lunch at 12noon. The group will be assembling hygiene bags for Under the Bridge Ministries. Please attend if you are able. You are also encouraged to participate by giving generously to the general fund of the church. All of the items placed in the bags are purchased with your tithe and offering dollars. This is also a gospel-based ministry, providing for those folks who are living without the basic necessities of life.
Eastside Community Assistance Thanksgiving bags are due back to the church November 15th. You may bring them back any time before that and place them in the hallway adjacent to the sanctuary. We will help you unload them from your car.
Finally, Daylight Saving Time ends November 1st at 0200. What that means for you is that you turn your clock back by one hour when you go to be on Saturday night and enjoy the extra hour to sleep on Sunday morning.
Blessings to all of you! Mary
