Dinner & a Class
Want to know more about East Woods membership?
Join Pastor Joyce at the table as she leads this interactive and informative class. You'll learn more about what Presbyterians believe and introduction to East Woods Church.
Monday, April 1 - no fooling!
Dinner at 6:00PM
Interested in attending? Please register online here or you can let us know by dropping us an email or calling (360) 944-5841.
Easter Events
PALM SUNDAY
Sunday, March 24, 10:00AM
"Why are you doing this?"
Join in the waving of palms as we celebrate the beginning of Holy Week. Special music by EWPC Choristers.
GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE
MARCH 29, 7:00PM - also available via livestream here
Come and ponder how Jesus spent the last day before He was crucified. The final hours began at sundown on Thursday as he gathered with his disciples to celebrate the Passover Meal. Remember and then leave the service in silence.
EASTER EGG HUNT
Saturday, March 30,10:00AM
"For the First Time"
Meet in the East Woods sanctuary
Preschool/littles through 5th Grade
Join us for a fun time hunting that elusive egg!
EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE
Sunday, March 31, 6:30AM
"Do not be alarmed!"
Meet at the East Woods fire pit.
Fresh homemade cinnamon rolls and coffee served after!
EASTER SUNDAY CELEBRATION SERVICE
Sunday, March 31,10:00AM
"No Expectations"
Special music by EWPC Choristers.
All are welcome to join us for any and all events!
Allison King joins the East Woods team!
We're excited to announce our new Music Worship Leader, Allison King!
Allison comes to us with a wonderful lifetime of service, both professionally and as a volunteer. She graduated from Brigham Young University, Idaho with a BS in English, Communications, Art History, and has begun a Masters of Fine Arts at Marylhurst University.
Allison was the Director of Youth Programs and Assistant Music Director at Salmon Creek United Methodist here in Vancouver from 2017-2022. She has served as a music teacher and accompanist in several churches and studios over the years.
Allison is currently the Lead Communications Consultant for the Washington Health Care Authority after splitting time as a communications director for the Metropolitan Youth Symphony and Spruce IT.
She is the Head Coach for several soccer teams at the Olympic, Timbers and High Schools levels in the region and once played professional soccer at the international level.
Allison volunteers with Family Promise, CASA of Multnomah County and the Board of the Bells of the Cascades. She is married and the mother of two talented daughters.
Quilt Blocks to freedom
We finished up our on "Signs" on February 10, but we'll continue to highlight this unique history for the remainder of Black History Month. We were honored to display a quilt which replicates the Underground Railroad quilt codes created to help the enslaved escape captivity before, during and after the American Civil War. The quilt was loaned to us by John and Carol Domench.
These codes or "signs" sent messages to slaves preparing to escape. You can read more about this important part of history here.
Last Sunday, Pastor Joyce shared another story about the road to freedom signs via the quilt. This time the "drunkard pass" square signified that it was time to move - danger of being caught. She also told us about the "wreath" square which signified that someone had died on the journey. And finally, she reminded us of the incredible work of Harriet Tubman, herself an escaped slave. Ms. Tubman rescued about 70 people on 13 journeys.
Black history is American history.
GO TEAM FUNDRAISER EVENT
Tacos, Trinkets & a 'Triloquist!
Saturday, January 20
6:00PM
St John's Presbyterian Church, Fellowship Hall
1206 NE Birch Street, Camas
Tickets: $15
Please join us for a fun filled evening to include a taco dinner and a show - including our amazing ventriloquist!
In authentic Guatemalan tradition, we'll also feature a marketplace where you can find after Christmas deals on ornaments, pottery and other decor for your garden!
Proceeds go toward our team water filter fund.
Donations accepted!
Dinner & a Class
Monday, February 5
6:00PM
Want to know more about East Woods membership?
Join Pastor Joyce at the table as she leads this interactive and informative class. You'll learn more about what Presbyterians believe and introduction to East Woods Church.
young adults gathering
Let’s welcome the New Year together!
Monday, January 1, 2024 at 5:30PM
At the home of Keith Bloss
Join us for dinner, games & lots of fun!
Menu: Lasagna (homemade), Salad, and Garlic Bread
White elephant gift exchange: max $20
Let us know you’re coming! Talk to Keith, Pastor Joyce or call the church office to RSVP.
Special Guest Speaker
Sunday, December 10
11:30AM - right after worship service
We're excited to welcome Matt Mikalatos, author, speaker & screenwriter.
Topic: "Inspiration to Live in These Days"
Jesus calls us to share our gifts and talents with one another and the wider community. Let's talk together about how pursuing our passions with excellence can lead to opportunities for greater service and deeper connections with people in the world.
Matt will share about his own journey as an author, and we'll talk together about how we can use our passions and artistic skills to make a difference in the world around us.
Matt Mikalatos is the author of 15 books -novels, memoirs, and non-fiction - the most recent of which is "Loving Disagreement: Fighting for Community through the Fruit of the Spirit." He's also a screenwriter. He lives in Vancouver with his family and a giant rabbit named Bruce. Learn more.
Matt's books make great gifts! On sale at the event.
Event sponsored by the East Woods Adult Discipleship team.
Touch of Class Chorale
Christmas Concert
Friday, December 8
7:00PM
Join us for an evening of music featuring holiday favorites and choral classics that celebrate the spirit of the season. Touch of Class Chorale is a community based choir of over 40 singers!
A portion of the proceeds will benefit our Guatemalan mission partner, CEDEPCA.
Tickets: $12 adults, $10 children 6-16
Dinner & a Class
Monday, December 4
6:00PM - 8:00PM
Join Pastor Joyce at the table as she leads this interactive and informative class. You'll learn more about what Presbyterians believe and introduction to East Woods Church.
RSVP by sending an email or calling (360) 944-5841.
Enrollment is open!
If you’ve ever felt like you just can’t get in control of your money, you’re not alone. You’d be surprised how many people you know are struggling just like you. But it’s time for your struggle to end—starting today!
Join our Financial Peace University Class in session now on Tuesdays at 6:30PM.
We meet here at East Woods Church. Classes are about two hours and continue through November 7.
Register here and learn more about the program!
oh boy, Sunday school
is in session!
Learning Module: "Using Our Bodies to Pray"
Dates: October 8, 15 & 22
Let us know if your child/children will join us for Sunday School in September! Registration now open here.
We'll offer a new 3-week Sunday School module each month.
Hang tight while we prepare your form...
This form may capture sensitive data (credit cards, bank accounts…), yet this site isn’t sufficiently secured.
Please contact the site administrator to resolve this issue. He must enable SSL.
This form failed to load. Try reloading this page.
The server may be having issues, or this website’s administrator may have deleted the form.
harvest of the blessings
Friends of the Carpenter Dinner & Auction
Let's join our mission partner in raising funds for their outreach programs that serve vulnerable members of our community.
Friday, October 20
6:00-9:00PM
Doors open at 5:00PM
Ilani Casino Resort
1 Cowlitz Way
Ridgefield, WA
Tickets: $75
Purchase tickets and learn more here.
Call for Volunteers!
Attend the event as a volunteer.
Friends of the Carpenter needs some volunteers to help with registration, live and silent auctions, dessert dash and more!
Staff will be on hand to guide and assist.
Interested?
Check with Jackie Tyler or
contact Tod Thayer at FOC directly.
Serving Promise, raising hope.
Annual Dinner & Auction
Let's join our mission partners in a fun event to raise funds that help keep children and their families housed.
Wednesday, October 18
6:30-8:30PM
Adventist Community Church
9711 NE St John's Road
Vancouver, WA
Tickets: $75
Women's Retreat
Praying through the transitions
in our lives
Join the women of East Woods as we gather for a one-day retreat!
October 7
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Menucha Retreat Center, Corbett, OR
Meet at the church to carpool - 9:00AM
Cost: $40 - includes lunch
(Scholarships available)
Septemer 16
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Menucha Retreat Center, Corbett, OR
Meet at the church to carpool - 9:00AM
Cost: $40 - includes lunch
(Scholarships available)
Registration details soon - stay tuned to this page!
Mission Spotlight
We're helping create safe spaces
for youth in Guatemala.
The Tamar & Jose Project sends students in Guatemala to 3-day retreats to learn ...
Students learn these concepts through biblical teaching from the stories of Tamar and Joseph and Jesus! They also receive a backpack with lesson content, school supplies, and hygiene kits.
A Tamar or Jose retreat becomes a life changing experience.
How can you join us?
How much does a sponsorship cost?
I want to join you - how to I donate?
How can I learn more about the project?
Watch the program video here to learn all about this life changing initiative!
Watch powerful testimonies by students who've attended a Tamar or Jose retreat here.
Journey to Guatemala 2024
Information Meeting: Sunday, October 1
Right after Worship Service
Interested in joining us for an "Intercultural Encounter" with our mission partner, CEDEPCA?
Please register your interest here, then join us for our initial info meeting on October 1.
Get your questions answered, then make this life changing journey in 2024!
Tentative Travel Dates: February 27-March 5, 2024
blessing of the animals
Saturday, September 30
3:00PM
in the Sanctuary
You and your pets are invited to join us for a special worship service to acknowledge God’s beloved creatures and celebrate the emotional connection we have with our animal companions.
ALPHA SERIES
Youth Group
Sundays from 6:30-8:00 pm
What's all the fuss?
Youth Group is happening. Yay!
What time should we come?
6:30 PM to 8 PM
What are we going to do?
We have a great evening planned to help our youth have fun as they build relationship with each other and their leaders.
Who should I bring with me?
Youth are encouraged to bring their friends.
What should I do next?
Talk to your friends and plan to come each Sunday night for the Alpha Series.
Women's Retreat
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Take a break and join other women at East Woods for a time of companionship, fun, relaxation, good food and spiritual growth.
SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, September 16, 2023
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Stay tuned for registration details!
Join us for a Block Party!
Tuesday, August 1
4:00PM - 8:00PM
159th /164th Avenues & 18th to 23rd Streets
at East Woods Presbyterian Church ...
Hosted in partnership by:
East Woods Presbyterian Church
Unity Family Church
Let's Picnic!
Sunday, July 30 right after worship service - just step outside and join us on the lawn!
We'll provide BBQ and ask our regular attendees to please bring a side - salads, veggies, fruit or desserts. A sign up sheet is available in the lobby.
Everyone is welcome - We hope you'll take a seat at our (picnic) table!
Summer Jam
Learn how to make strawberry jam this summer!
Sign up in the lobby at church or see Vickie Forrester for more information.
Date: June 16 at 10:00AM
Location: Vickie Forrester's home in Battle Ground.
Cost: $5 - You'll take home a jar of canned jam along with a container of freezer jam.
Contact: Vickie Forrester
We'll also share a jar of jam to our homebound church attendees.
And bring a friend!
Missions spotlight
Take a Virtual Journey to Guatemala!
Sunday, May 21
Right after worship, Kathryn Monroe will share pictures and stories from her trip to visit our international mission partner, CEDEPCA. Learn how you can get involved!
Wednesday, May 24
4:30PM via Zoom
Lessons from Tamar & Jose - Empowering Teenage Girls & Boys in Guatemala
Join a virtual Intercultural Encounter with CEDEPCA. You don't even need your passport! Preregistration is required.
You'll receive a zoom link to join the journey at 4:30PM PT on
To make the suggested $11 donation go here.
An Intercultural Encounter
Take your next steps to learn more about CEDEPCA's work in Guatemala.
You don't even need your passport!
Preregistration is required.
You'll receive a zoom link to join the journey at 4:30PM PT on Wednesday, May 24.
To make the suggested donation go here.
Check with Kathryn or Jackie if you have any questions.
My Guatemalan Journey
Sunday, May 21
Right after worship
Kathryn Monroe will share pictures and stories from her trip to visit our international mission partner, CEDEPCA.
Learn how you can get involved!
P.S. There will be chocolate.
Spring Benefit Concert
Join us for a Touch of Class Chorale concert to benefit our partner, Family Promise of Clark County!
When: Friday, May 5 at 7:00PM
Where: East Woods Presbyterian Church
Admission:
Adults $12
Children (6-16) $10
Children under 6 FREE
fifth sunday potluck
Sunday, April 30
Join us right after worship service.
Bring your favorite dish to share and enjoy fellowship as we break bread - and other tasty morsels - together!
HE IS RISEN INDEED!
Easter Worship Service
April 9 at 10:00AM
Bring family or a friend and join us!
Easter Sunrise Service
April 9 at 6:30AM
Gather with us at the fire pit - coffee and cinnamon rolls provided!
Good Friday tenebrae service
April 7 at 7:00PM
Palm Sunday
April 2 at 10:00AM
Come join us for communion service.
CURRENT MESSAGE SERIES
FAMILy PROMISE HOST WEEK
Sunday, March 26 - Sunday, April 2
East Woods Church will host the parents and children of Family Promise
during the entire week of March 26 - April 2.
How can you help?
If you have any questions, please contact Pat Norby (360-604-0042).
Online volunteer registration is open here! Be sure to grab your volunteer spot early.
Ash Wednesday service
Ash Wednesday Service will be held at St. John's Presbyterian Church in Camas on February 22nd at 11:00 AM.
You can attend in person or livestream here.
All are welcome!
5th sunday gathering potluck
Join us on Sunday, January 29!
We'll gather right after worship service, following our Congregational Meeting, to break bread together and feast on pulled pork sandwiches and more!
Eric Stepanek will cook up pulled pork sandwiches. Vickie Forrester and the Hospitality Committee ask our regular attenders to please provide a side or dessert:
Last names A - M bring salads or side dishes. Feel free to bring whatever you like, but if you need inspiration, here are some ideas: coleslaw, pasta or potato salad, cucumber or carrot or other veggie salad, black bean & corn salad, rice pilaf, French fries, hush puppies, macaroni & cheese.
Last names N - Z bring desserts. Bring whatever tasty morsels you like, but here are more ideas: carrot cake, brownies, lemon bread or lemon bundt cake, cookies, fruit.
And to make it even easier - recipes for many of these ideas are available in the front lobby!
Christmas eve candlelight services
December 24, 5:00pm
Join us in celebrating the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Please come and join us for a night of a prayer,song,worship and togetherness as we celebrate the birth of our Lord.
Carols & cookies christmas sing-a-long
december 18, 6:30 pm
A family friendly Christmas event! Come sing Christmas songs, play trivia, decorate cookies and more. Please join us and bring a friend.
Christmas pageant
December 18 during service
Our pageant this year is an intergenerational opportunity for all members to participate.
Grandparents and parents, members and visitors, and all the children are invited to participate in this narrated story of the birth of Jesus. We will also sing the great Christmas songs of the season.
Come and be a part of this magical time of the year.
ThanksGiving eve eve SERVICE
November 22, 7:00 pm
East Woods will host the Thanksgiving service for Churches in Partnership (local Presbyterian churches). This is a wonderful service to give thanks to God for the blessings of the year.
This service will be live streamed.
Hospitality and fellowship to follow the service.
The Disciples' Prayer
Dive deep into Pastor Derek’s sermon series on the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). Jesus taught this prayer to His disciples when they asked Him how to pray. You’ll be sure to gain new insights into this prayer that most of us know by heart.
Priests and prophets
Type the main content for this list section here. This is just example text to show you what it will look like when you enter text content into this section. Your unique, authentic, and appropriate text will be filled into this section. Once you click into this section, you will see the filler text disappear, and you can begin typing your real content.
Unity Center Summer camp
Mon-Wed | July 11-August 17 | 10am-2pm
Children in the community are invited to join our sister-congregation, Unity Family Church, as they host their Summer Camp featuring arts and crafts, sports and games, indoor and outdoor activities, and field trips.
Space is limited, so register soon. $75 (lunch included).
Click here for more information or to register.
Movies on the Lawn
begin at dusk (approx. 8:45pm)
Bring the whole family for these fun movies projected on the back wall of the building. Bring your favorite lawn chair or blanket. Popcorn and water provided.
July 15th: Encanto
July 29th: Abominable
August 12th: Over the Moon
August 26th: Luca
Serving Promise. Raising hope.
A fun night to celebrate and support Family Promise Clark County.
Wednesday, June 1, 6:30-8:30 PM
This exciting event will include:
Dinner - Silent Auction - Live Auction - Dessert Dash - Program about Family Promise
Click here for tickets or to register for the silent auction.
Can't attend in person?
We have a virtual attendance option available as well,
with some bonus features for our at-home attendees!
Unity in the Community
Christ-Centered Forum on Race
april 24 @ 12:30pm
Black and White
Cultures in Christ
Join East Woods Presbyterian and Unity Family Churches in an afternoon of sharing and learning from our brothers and sisters. Speakers addressing the topics of race and the church, with an emphasis on “helping us all understand more so we can do more”. Questions can be asked/discussed. The forum is open to the wider community. Our commonality begins with “God comes first”. Let’s talk about it, then be about it!
Children's Discipleship Assessment
<- click the photo to begin
EWPC is working with BARNA Research, a go-to source for insights about faith and culture, to conduct an in-house assessment of our children's ministry.
We need your help. Please give us 10 minutes of your time to answer the questions BARNA has provided us. Your insight with many others will give us a comprehensive view of this ministry as we rebuild it for the future.
We want your point of view no matter your age. Answer to the best of your ability; you have the option to answer "I don't know."
Thank you for taking your precious time to complete this assessment.
Please Join us For Sunday worship
We are currently hosting a 10:00 AM Sunday worship service that is available both in person and online. Head to our "Worship" page to view previous services.
In Person
Please join us for a service that glorifies the Lord and provides you an opportunity to be fed by the Word and a dynamic sermon.
Online
If you prefer to live stream, we offer our link above on our homepage or on our Facebook page. The live stream will begin at approximately 9:55 a.m.
If you can't join us for our 10:00 a.m. service, we offer our services in recorded form on our Worship page.
To help us see how many people are watching online:
When using this site:
When using Facebook:
Lent Discussion Groups
Join in a deeper discussion of Pastor Derek’s sermon series on the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6: 9-13). Jesus taught this prayer to His disciples when they asked Him how to pray. You’ll be sure to gain new insights into this prayer that most of us know by heart. There are Zoom and in-person options for this 5-week study.
Daytime Option
Hosted by Pastor Derek Richman
When: Tuesdays Starts March 8 – April 5.
Time: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Location: EWPC – Maple Room
Evening Options
Hosted by Gwendolyn Wagner
When: Sundays Starts March 6 – April 3
Time: 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Zoom Link: 826 8153 8151
Hosted by Pastor Derek Richman
When: Tuesdays Starts March 8 – April 5.
Time: 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Zoom Link: 826 8153 8151
All-Church Potluck
Sunday, March 27th After Service
For the first time in 2 years, we get to have a meal together after our Church Service.
FAMILY FAVORITE POTLUCK
Please bring a course based on what your last name starts with.
A-I: Salad/Sides
J-R: Main Dish
S-Z: Dessert/fruit
If you can help with set up or clean up please contact Cathy Roeper.
Introduction to Family Promise
Monday, March 14th, 6:30pm
Would you like to know more about the Family Promise program and what roles East Woods volunteers fill when preparing for and hosting the families? Family Promise staff will present a brief overview of policies and best practices and how the volunteers and staff can support one another as we work with the families. You can also get information on how to access in-depth on-line training for volunteers. There will also be a question and answer time, ending with a tour of our building and how we accommodate the families during our host week. This Zoom presentation takes place on Monday, March 14, at 6:30 pm. Just click on this link - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85467339673 to join us. It's a great way to learn how you can volunteer to be a part of our ministry."
Annual Easter Egg Hunt | Saturday, April 16th 11:00am
Join us at the church campus for the Annual Egg Hunt.
This year we will host 2 age-appropriate hunts in the lawns.
Grab your kids, invite your friends, and bring your basket to fill with eggs.
We're very excited to have you all here again this year.
If you have any questions please contact Kevin.
Ash Wednesday Service
March 2nd 12:00noon
We begin the observance of Lent – the 40 days leading up to Resurrection Sunday (Easter) – with this contemplative service of Scripture, prayer, and song.
Ashes will be applied during the service
OR in the parking lot at 1:00pm.
ANnual Easter Egg Hunt | Saturday, April 16th 11:00am
Join us at the church campus for the Annual Egg Hunt.
This year we will host 2 age-appropriate egg hunts in the lawns.
Grab your kids, invite your friends, and bring your basket to fill with eggs.
We're very excited to have you all here again this year.
If you have any questions please contact Kevin.
Bowling for Fish
January 25 | 6:00 @ Allen's Crosley Lanes
Enjoy Bowling? Enjoy Fish? Well, regardless, join us for at Crosley Lanes and bowl your way toward one of several fish-themed prizes. From Swedish Fish to Stuffed Animals... even a fish dinner! Contact Kevin to sign up or for details.
$8/ person includes bowling, shoes, and pizza
This form may capture sensitive data (credit cards, bank accounts…), yet this site isn’t sufficiently secured.
Please contact the site administrator to resolve this issue. He must enable SSL.
This form failed to load. Try reloading this page.
The server may be having issues, or this website’s administrator may have deleted the form.
Christmas eve Service
December 24th 5:00pm
Join us on Friday, December 24th, as we celebrate the coming of Jesus to the world. This service includes songs, Scripture, candle-lighting, and a message about the Shepherds who were the first to meet the Christ Child with his parents.
Special in-seat activities will be available for children attending the service. Please RSVP for nursery care needs.
Thanksgiving Community Outreach Feed
November 20th, 12:00-2:00pm
Join us as we head over to the tent community at W 13th Street and Lincoln. We will be offering hot food, warm clothing, and friendly conversation to those in need. Can't make it in person? We need donations of winter coats, gloves, hats, scarves, men's t-shirts, pants, sweatshirts, new socks and underwear, and blankets. Food items should be non-perishable (ex: packaged crackers, tuna packets, granola bars, Vienna sausages). Donation bins are in the church Narthex.
Operation: Christmas Child
now - November 14
Samaritan’s Purse is bringing shoebox gifts and the Good News of Jesus Christ
to some of the most remote corners of the globe! Every gift-filled shoebox is a tool for evangelism and discipleship for a local church
around the world. At Operation Christmas Child outreach events, boys and girls hear
the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ and receive a tangible expression of God’s
love through one of your prayerfully packed shoeboxes.
Join us at East Woods as we gather items for kids around the world, pack them in shoeboxes (available at the church), and send them in God's Love. Click here to see what items are needed. For more information, please contact Cathy Roeper. or go to the Samaritan's Purse website.
Click here for Community Group details. Click for boy or girl lists of items.
Oct. 10th: Meet after church to collect your shoebox(es) or find out how to donate items.
Nov. 7th: Packing Party!
Unity Center's Winter Camp
December 20-22, 10am-2pm
Worried about what the kids will do during the Winter Break?
UC has 3 days of activities for kids aged 1-18 just waiting for you! This "camp" begins at East Woods each day, often heading out for activities such as bowling, games, movies, and more.
There will also be daily presentations by members of Unity Family & East Woods Churches. Go to their website for details or to register.
Carols & Cocoa
Sunday, Dec. 19th 6:30 p.m.
Join us for old-fashioned caroling in the neighborhood, followed by hot cocoa and cookies at the church. We hope you'll join us for this fun, festive time for the whole family!
Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Dinner
November 20th @ 5:30pm
6th-12th graders are invited to grab a friend or two and come to the church for an authentic Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Dinner. There will also be games and a viewing of the classic Thanksgiving special A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.
Youth & Family Game Night
Saturday, October 23 @ 6:15pm
Everyone from the congregation and community is invited to the church for a no-cost evening of board, card, and dice games together. Light snacks will be provided. We hope families and individuals of all ages join us for this evening of fun and fellowship!
Trunk-or-Treat
October 31st, 4:00-6:00pm
Join us for the Annual Trunk-or-Treat in the East Woods parking lot. On Halloween we'll have decorated vehicles with their trunks and tailgates open for kids to receive candy and prizes as they stop by. The COVID-19 Pandemic may continue to limit our indoor events, but we are excited to host this fun-filled event as we practice Connecting with and Caring for All People!
We look forward to seeing you there!
WELCOME, FRIEND!
Welcome to East Woods Presbyterian Church! We hope our website is a
helpful way for you to begin to discover who we are and, much more
important, who God is and what God is up to here.
The Church,
including the East Woods congregation, is people. Not a building, or an event. Not a
denomination, or anything else, but people - imperfect, broken, called,
forgiven, redeemed, empowered, sent... centered in the One who has saved
us, and is continually saving us. You, like all people, are made in the
image of God, and nothing can separate you from the love of God that is
revealed in Jesus Christ.
East Woods is a welcoming place not because we’re super nice (although many are), but because we too have been welcomed by God. It’s our pleasure and our honor to welcome you!
Trunk-Or-Treat 2021
October 31st 4:00-6:00pm
Join us for the Annual Trunk-or-Treat in the East Woods parking lot. On Halloween we'll have decorated vehicles with their trunks and tailgates open for kids to receive candy and prizes as they stop by. The COVID-19 Pandemic may continue to limit our indoor events, but we are excited to host this fun-filled event as we practice Connecting with and Caring for All People!
We look forward to seeing you there!
Youth & Family Game Night
Saturday, Oct. 23 6:15pm
Everyone from the congregation and community is invited to the church for a no-cost evening of board, card, and dice games together. Light snacks will be provided. We hope families and individuals of all ages join us for this evening of fun and fellowship!
Youth & Family Corn Maze
Sunday, Oct. 17 (after service)
6th-12th graders are invited to our annual Corn Maze. This year we'll be taking at road trip down to The Maize at the Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island for an epic maze adventure! Meet at the church after service where we'll pack lunch and head out together. $8 per person.
Non-teen family members are welcome too!
Read the whole Bible in 2021
Want to read the whole Bible in 2021? Here's one great resource that might help. You can download the free Five Day Bible Reading schedule here. Regardless of when you start, it's never too late to enjoy God's word!
Kids Walk Thru Adventure
August 21st 10:00am - 1:00pm
Families will encounter stations hosting sing-a-longs, puppet shows, games, Bible stories, and more at this event meant to re-establish some sense of normalcy after a year apart from one another, while allowing for space between attendees to respect those still struggling with health concerns.
We hope that your family, friends, and neighbors will join us for a grand old time!
Labor of Love
September 6, 12:00-2:00pm
Join us as we partner with Unity Family Church for this outreach to serve the homeless in our community. We'll be passing out survival packages of food and hygiene items, clothes as needed, and praying with those at the camps.
Please sign up on the Service Opportunities board in the Fellowship Hall. Donations of non-perishable food, hygiene items, and clothes can be made in the bins below the board.
Donation Items include: Non-perishable canned food with open tops, individually wrapped crackers, coats, hats, sweater, gloves, and scarves; new undergarments (all ages/genders), new socks.
SUmmer Carnival
Saturday, August 28th
In the shadow of our cancelled Kids Walk Thru, Unity Family is holding their Summer Carnival on Saturday, August 28th, 11am-2pm. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to this family-friendly event featuring Games, Prizes, Face-Painting, and more!
We hope to see you there!
Movie On The Lawn:
Friday, August 6 around 9:00pm
Grab your friends, family, and a blanket or chair and join us for the triumphant return of Summer Movies on the Lawn at East Woods! Popcorn and water bottles will be provided. The movie begins as soon as it's dark enough to see it on the back wall of the building.
Songs & S'mores
Sunday, may 23 6:00pm
Middle & High School students are invited for this time of social time together at the church, where we will roast S'mores outside around the fire pit and sing songs together.
Grab a friend or sibling and join us!
Serving Promise. Raising Hope.
Online Event & Auction Fundraiser
Friday, May 21, 6:00-8:30pm
Join supporters of Family Promise for an evening of raising hope for homeless families with children in Clark County. Hear from inspiring guest speakers and learn about the impact Family Promise of Clark County is making in our communities!
$15 General Admission. $50 VIP Tickets (includes wine or cider, chocolate, and 2 raffle tickets).
The online auction begins Monday, May 17.
For more information or to register, please click here.
(VISIT OUR NEW PAGE)
We have launched our new EWPC Community Groups. Click on the picture and visit the page dedicated to sharing community with each other. All groups are open to visitors and members. Click on the Zoom link to attend.
If you don't find what you are looking for reach out to Peggy McNees and suggest and/or form one.
We hope to see you at one or more of these events.
Give
We are extremely grateful for your commitment and generosity.
Click here to go to our online giving application.
You Can Find Us Here.
K-5th Grade Classes
suspended during the health crisis
Weekly Resources are provided for families
via email or on our facebook page.
(contact kevin to be added to the email list}
Our central focus is to connect the children with our Lord, Jesus Christ. We also want to help children develop a sense of deeper involvement and ownership around our worship liturgy and practices. Worship happens when we praise God together. Praise includes our petitions.
Come join us as we celebrate and worship alongside our children.
time for Younger Disciples
Check out this great video for kids.
Children & Family and Youth Ministries
Find out what East Woods is up to with these ministries.
These links will take you to these pages instantly.
Sunday WORSHIP services
Grace and peace to you! Thanks for visiting East Woods online.
We are currently hosting a 10:00 AM Sunday worship service that is available both in person and over Zoom.
If you'd like to join the East Woods congregation for in-person worship in the sanctuary, please help us prepare for your visit by reviewing the self-screening and then registering in advance at least 24 hours prior to the start of the service.
Here is the information to join our worship services via Zoom:
Previous recordings of services, sermons, children's messages, and music can be viewed on our YouTube Channel.
january 10th
Clothed with "Humility"
Luke 18:9-14
January 17th
Clothed with "Meekness"
2 Timothy 2:20-26
January 24th
Clothed with "Patience"
2 Peter 3:9-15a
Devotional Booklet
Light in the Shadows, Light of our Lives
Pastor Bill Sperry and Susie Freeman wrote this devotional as we continue to be separated by the pandemic restrictions. We hope that you will enjoy and be blessed by the art and commentary within.
Click the cover to open or download the .pdf.
Follow Jesus' Example
Our services should inspire worshipers to follow Jesus’ example by introducing the gospel message to our community and the world through the way we live and serve.
We support regular participation in worship and we encourage our congregation to be involved in activities that help them grow in faith and spiritual maturity and service to the congregation or the community.
Our Sunday morning service is both a blend of the contemporary and traditional, mixing modern praise and worship music with cherished and time-honored hymns.
Christmas Eve SErvices
December 24th
5:00 PM IN-PERSON & 7:00 PM on Zoom
Our Annual Christmas Eve Worship will happen on December 24th with two services: 5:00 PM in-person and 7:00 PM on Zoom.
This year we are pleased to offer both online and in-person access to this time of contemplation, joy, and celebration.
We hope that you and your family will join us as you are able.
Please register and self-screen for in-person worship here.
Online via Zoom ID 893 1993 3204 or click here.
suspended while services are online
Connecting Time
9-10 AM - Before service each Sunday morning
Spend a little time in great company.
Drop into Evergreen Hall anytime between 9:00 - 10:00 AM on Sundays to have a cup of coffee,
get to know your fellow East Woods members a little better, and to welcome visitors.
Childcare is available in the Nursery prior to service.
Save These Dates
Mark your calendars now!
(Or you can click CHURCH CALENDAR and look at the church's official calendar.)
August Highlights - all services and events via Zoom - look for your invitation or email us for info
August 14 - Movie On The Lawn | 8:45ish p.m.
FOR MORE DETAILS, SEE NEWSLETTER or BELOW
Services are online until further notice
Sunday Service
at 10:00 a.m.
East Woods Presbyterian Church
16210 NE 20th Street, Vancouver, WA 98684
Telephone #360-944-5841
The Amazing Story of Christmas
Our children, their parents, and several others joined in this intergenerational story-telling of
"The Amazing Story of Christmas"
Use this link to see the story unfold in six parts: Family Christmas Pageant
Please feel free to share this link with friends and family.
NEEDED: VOLUNTEERS FOR FAMILy Promise Hosting
AUGUST 23 -AUGUST 30
East Woods Presbyterian Church will host Family Promise the week of August 23rd through the 29th. Our hosting duties will be a little different this time.
When churches shut down last March because of COVID-19, the families moved to hotels for housing.
Churches continued to help the families in various ways. We provided grocery gift cards and encouraging notes during our May rotation. The families prepared meals in their room kitchenettes with the money from the gift cards. This set-up allowed them to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
The unbudgeted hotel expense was burdensome for the program. Thanks to the generous offer from the owners of Sumner House in Camas, the families will move in on August 2nd. They will use this for their overnight stays. They return to the Day Center to receive the services and support needed to obtain employment, housing, and independence. Session has approved our request for volunteers to cover the family time at Sumner House during our rotation.
We need to provide two people on-site each day from 5:15 p.m. to 7:15 a.m. The only meal we will serve will be dinner. We will serve families in their rooms with disposable plates and serve ware. Each family collects their trash for disposal before they depart each morning.
All family members and volunteers are required to wear masks and observe social distancing. Each family member with get temperature checks twice daily. There will be very little interaction between volunteers and guests. We will provide grocery gift cards for breakfasts and lunches. These meals will be eaten at the Day Center.
We are providing this online volunteer sign-up here for your convenience.
There are three areas you can sign up for per day. Each one requires two volunteers.
Meal
First Overnight Hosts (4:45 p.m. to 9:30 a.m.)
Second Overnight Hosts (9:30 a.m. PM-7:45 a.m.)
NOTE: Shifts can easily be combined (recommended), so you don’t have to travel in the middle of the night.
Prayerfully consider volunteering to host at the Sumner House in Camas the week of August 23rd. If you are able to volunteer, please sign up by Sunday, August 16.
In God’s Grace,
Lynne and Pat
BOok Study
A Long Obedience In The Same Direction
We invite you to join Pastor Bill on Wednesdays 12:30-1:30pm for this Online Book Study of Eugene Peterson's A Long Obedience in the Same Direction,
focusing on the Psalms of Ascent (120-134).
Please RSVP to bill@eastwoodspres.org.
Books, ebooks, and audiobooks are available on Amazon. Please let Bill know if you need assistance getting a book.
March 22nd Service
This is our first Zoom service recording.
The bulletin and sermon notes are found under the resource tab.
We will work through some of the technical issues to make the service better for you each week.
Please send suggestions to Gwen if you have any.
Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!
March 29th Service
The bulletin and sermon notes are found under the resource tab.
You can find all the previously recorded services on this link.
Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!
PALM SUNDAY - APRIL 5TH
HOSANNA! HOSANNA!
Dear Friends, we continue to have technical difficulties. After changing one setting, we find out it affected another that we didn't know about. We will continue to correct these. This week, you will see the slides and hear the speakers, but you will not see them. The video did not record their faces. Our apologies for this. This is still a great message that you should share.
We are working towards a flawless Easter Service We know we aren't flawless, but we serve a God who is. And for that I'm grateful. Enjoy your last week of lent leading up to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ!
Good Friday (Tenebrae SErvice)
The word "tenebrae" comes from the Latin meaning "darkness." The Tenebrae is an ancient Christian Good Friday service that makes use of gradually diminishing light through the extinguishing of candles to symbolize the events of that week from the triumphant Palm Sunday entry through Jesus' burial.
This increasing darkness symbolizes the approaching darkness of Jesus' death and of hopelessness in the world without God. The service concludes in darkness, sometimes with a final candle, the Christ candle, carried out of the sanctuary, symbolizing the death of Jesus. A loud noise may also sound symbolizing the closing of Jesus' tomb. The worshipers then leave in silence to ponder the impact of Christ's death and await the coming Resurrection.
EASTER SUNDAY - APRIL 5TH
Type the main content for this media section here. This is just example text to show you what it will look like when you enter text content into this section. Your unique, authentic, and appropriate text will be filled into this section. Once you click into this section, you will see the filler text disappear, and you can begin typing your real content.
Sunday Service Recordings
These are previously recorded church services during the COVID-19 quarantine.
The current week's service is posted to the home page.
Each week it will get moved to this page.
Stay safe and praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Prayers During the CoVID-19 Pandemic
This is a prayer suggestion during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Blessings on you and your loved ones.
1. Begin with that the proclamation of the gospel will be magnified as people face life’s frailty.
National and International
2. Protection of our missionaries working around the world
3. Wisdom for missions agencies on how best to minister.
4. Wisdom for government leaders as they set policies
5. The successful implementation of plans to slow the spread of the virus (development of tests, provision of medical facilities and equipment, etc.)
6. The swift development of a vaccine
7. Global slowdown in the number of new cases
Our Community
8. Protection of area businesses
9. Protection for those in area nursing homes and other high-risk individuals
10. Provision for our health care system
11. Provision and protection for our local health care providers
12. Wisdom for community leaders in setting area policies.
13. Protection of area churches and their members
Our Church
14. Protection for those in the church who are high risk
15. Protect the income of those whose jobs will be affected
16. That this will unite us and not divide us
17. Wisdom for EWPC leadership
18. That we would be a church who exudes joy, peace and faith
19. That we would care for one another well
Easter Sunday - He is Risen!!!
Recordings of Good Friday, Children's Sermon and both Easter Sunday Service found below.
Hallelujah!!
Good Friday Tenebrae Service
Friday, 7 p.m. via zoom
The word "tenebrae" comes from the Latin meaning "darkness." The Tenebrae is an ancient Christian Good Friday service that makes use of gradually diminishing light through the extinguishing of candles to symbolize the events of that week from the triumphant Palm Sunday entry through Jesus' burial.
This increasing darkness symbolizes the approaching darkness of Jesus' death and of hopelessness in the world without God. The service concludes in darkness, sometimes with a final candle, the Christ candle, carried out of the sanctuary, symbolizing the death of Jesus. A loud noise may also sound symbolizing the closing of Jesus' tomb. The worshipers then leave in silence to ponder the impact of Christ's death and await the coming Resurrection.
UPDATED March 18th:
MEssage about our Response to COVID-19
Sunday Classes and Worship Services.
In response to recent restrictions on public gatherings, and out of concern for the health of our community's most vulnerable persons, East Woods will suspend all in-person classes and events and will host Sunday services online until further notice.
Online Services and Sermons.
Beginning Sunday, March 22, worship services can be viewed in real-time beginning at 10 AM through Zoom (https://zoom.us), an online conference and meeting service. East Woods Deacons will be sending instructions for Zoom registration to members of their flocks, or information can be requested via email at pastor@eastwoodspres.org. For those unable to view services via Zoom, recordings of previously conducted services will be posted on the East Woods website (http://eastwoodspres.org) as soon as possible following worship.
Audio recordings of weekly sermons will continue to be updated and made available at http://eastwoodspres.org/worship/sermon-podcasts.
Online Giving.
If you would like to continue giving financially to the mission and ministries of the church, you can make your financial gifts through our online giving option at http://eastwoodspres.org/give, or checks can be mailed to the church office at 16210 NE 20th St. Vancouver, WA 98684. We hope those options will be helpful throughout the year for the giving of pledges, special offerings, or annual membership per capita.
The Season of Lent.
Nathan LeRud, the Cathedral Dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Portland, recently wrote, "The season of Lent has historically served as a season of greater intentionality, a time to re-examine long-held practices and consider giving something up. This Lent, although it’s not the fast we might have chosen, churches are being asked to “fast” from many of the practices we have long taken for granted. I wish I could promise that everything would return to normal at Easter – I suspect that will not be the case! As a staff and ministry team, we’re already developing longer-term plans in the event that we are forced to take more drastic steps.
For now, however, I encourage you to practice an abundance of caution along with a non-anxious and non-reactive presence of calm. We can continue to be salt and light in an anxious world by refusing to stigmatize, blame, and resort to rumor and gossip. Indeed, our faith calls us to this."
Those are great words. Let’s remember that we're a people who serve the Lord who touched the untouchable and brought cleanliness to the unclean. With appropriate cautions, I think we should still be following in Christ's footsteps and prioritizing people over protocols. Perfect love drives out fear, even in anxious seasons. Friends, I hope to see you soon!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Bill
P.S. Please join me in praying through this reflection of Psalm 91:
“God, we believe you are good, and we trust you are greater than all things of this world. We pray that your love will drive out fear and that your healing hand will end all disease. We thank you for your kingdom come. Amen!
YARD PARTY Clean up
SaVE THE DATE: APRIL 4
Join us Saturday March 28 from 9:00 am – Noon
We’ll be sprucing up the church grounds in time for Easter and could use your help.
Come rain or come shine.
We guarantee a fun time.
Bring gloves, rakes & weed tools.
Drinks and snacks provided.
Our Buildings & Grounds Team will be very grateful!
SNow tubing
march 28th @ 9:00 a.m.
The March all-ages event takes us to the slopes of Mt. Hood for a couple hours of snow tubing. So grab your snow tube or disk and meet at the church by 9:00 a.m. where we'll pile into vehicles and head up to a Snow Park together. Don't have a tube? We can rent them there.
The snow park will have at least restrooms and a warming station, but probably no lodge, so dress accordingly. Any students coming on their own need to have a 2019/2020 Permission Form (and for any friends they might be bringing) on file.
Contact Kevin with any questions or to reserve your space.
Snow Tubing
march 28 @ 9:00 a.m.
The March all-ages event takes us to the slopes of Mt. Hood for a couple hours of snow tubing to kick off Spring Break. So grab your snow tube or disc and meet at the church by 9:00 a.m. where we'll pile into vehicles and head up to a Snow Park together. Don't have a tube? We can rent them there.
The snow park will have at least restrooms and a warming station, but probably no lodge, so dress accordingly. Any children coming without parents need to have a 2019/2020 Permission Form for them (and any friends that might be coming along) on file.
Contact Kevin with any questions or to reserve your space.
New Members Class
March 22 | 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Snow Tubing
March 28th @ 9:00 a.m.
The March all-ages event takes us to the slopes of Mt. Hood for a couple hours of snow tubing. So grab your snow tube or disc and meet at the church by 9:00 a.m., where we'll pile into vehicles and head up to a Snow Park together. Don't have a tube? We can rent them there.
The snow park will have at least a warming station and restrooms, but probably no lodge, so dress accordingly.
Contact Kevin with any questions or to reserve your space.
Women's Retreat
March 6-8, 2019
The 2020 EWPC Women's Retreat is here. This year the East Woods women will gather at the Heathen Estate at 9400 NE 134th Street, Vancouver, the weekend of March 6-8.
Our program theme focuses on "Parables." With the use of metaphors and symbolic imagery, Parables convey complex moral truths that are readily understandable and relatable to one's life and those around us. During the program, we will create and share Parables to communicate the Gospel message to those in need.
If you attend, a fun, meaningful, and engaging weekend awaits you. More importantly, you get to spend time with extraordinary women from East Woods. We hope you will join us.
You have two options to attend:
The sign-up sheets are in the church narthex. If you don't have an opportunity to sign-up or have additional questions, please reach out to: Peggy Konzek or Gwen Wagner.
Scholarships are available. Ask Peggy or Gwen.
A Celebration of Pastors
Sunday, March 1, AFTER SERVICE
We will be celebrating the return of Pastor Bill Sperry as he steps back into the role of our Pastor after almost a year of military deployment and a well-deserved sabbatical.
We will also be thanking Pastor Brian Craker for his shepherding during Pastor Bill's absence, as well as commissioning Pastor Brian and John Asher (M.Div) as they prepare for new pastoral calls this Spring.
There will be a Communion Worship Service at 10:00am, followed by a celebration that includes appetizers and a "Welcome Back" program.
Progressive Dinner
Sunday, February 16th
6:00-8:00pm
6th - 12th graders are invited to gather at the church, where we will load into cars to travel to 3 different homes for various courses: appetizer, main course, and dessert. Please be sure to have a permission form for the 2019/2020 school year turned in to Kevin. Students and drivers are encouraged to dress up - nicely, or costumed - why not?! - for this evening of food, folk, and fun!
Ash Wednesday Service
Wednesday, February 26 | 12 (noon)
Join us for this short service of worship that begins the season of Lent. Ash Wednesday focuses our hearts on repentance and prayer as we journey toward Easter and the resurrection of our Lord and Savior.
This service includes Scripture, prayer, music, and the imposition of ashes. We hope that you will join us.
How to Get More Information
Additional information sheets are available on each program listed here at the Opportunity Table in the Narthex or next to the program on this website. Step by step directions to enroll, order, or donate are provided to make it easy to support our church, East Woods Presbyterian Church. We thank you for your support!
Other Ways to Give
Giving While Shopping!
Corporate community rewards programs are making a financial difference for churches and other non-profit organizations across the country. It can make a HUGE different for East Woods Presbyterian Church, but we need your help! Our list of community rewards programs give you several ways to easily generate revenue for the church just by continuing to shop at retailers you already frequent. Signing up for these programs often means other great savings opportunities for you as well.
Sign-up today! Support East Woods just by doing your regular shopping. And when you have signed up, ask your family and friends to join as well.
Amazon Smile
Your Shop. Amazon Gives.
Do you shop on Amazon.com? Then connect your account to the AmazonSmile program. It is a simple way to support EWPC every time you shop with Amazon.com. You’ll have the same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping, and with AmazonSmile.com you’ll have the bonus of Amazon donating a portion of your purchase to our church.
Click here for more information on the AMAZON SMILE program.
"ROlling Stock" Program
Shopping for a new car or other BIG toy? then donate your old one to the church. East Woods is not taking donations of cars, personal and commercial trucks, boats trailers, snow machines, and motorcycles! These are know as "rolling stock". These vehicles go to auction for resale. East woods get the sale proceeds, and you get the charitable tax donation!
Anyone or any business can donate! Rolling Stock in almost any working order is accepted. But to be sure, contact EWPC member, Robert (Bob) Pfeifer, for further detail. You can reach Bob at 503-381-9787 or by email at copartsalesoregon@gmail.com.
Click here for more information on the ROLLING STOCK program.
iGive.com
you shop. your Charity Gets Money. For Free.
Make a difference every time you shop online. iGive.com is an online shopping mall with over 1600 stores that you probably shop at today - even Amazon. iGive donates a portion of each purchase you make to EWPC. The stores pay for it all, and you only pay what you normally would. Register today at iGive.com to contribute to EWPC as you shop online.As a Bonus: When you register online for iGive and Amazon Smile, both companies donate their contribution percentage at the same time.
Click here for more information on the iGIVE.COM program.
Fred Meyers Community Rewards
Where shopping & Giving Unite
EWPC is enrolled in the Fred Meyer Community Rewards program. This program provides donations to our church from shoppers who link their Fred Meyer Rewards card to us. Every time you shop and use your Rewards Card, you are helping East Woods earn a donation, at no cost to you! You still earn your Rewards Points, Fuel Points, and Rebates, just as you do today.
If you do not have a Rewards Card, you can pick one up any Fred Meyer Stores or register online. Just link your Rewards Card to Community Rewards and designate East Woods Presbyterian Church as your organization of choice.
Click here for more information on the FRED MEYER Community Rewards.
Donate a Bible to a Serviceman or Woman
The American Bible Society donates bible to service men and women for only $5 each. If you are interested in donating bibles to these brave soldiers, click here for their website, American Bible Society, and provide God's word to the men and women that protect our lives with their own.
St Pauly Textile Drop-off Shed
St. Pauly is a Western NY based, family owned company and a member of the Better Business Bureau. Their goal is to get USEABLE clothing to people who can use it, here in the U.S. and in developing countries. They are one of the largest clothing collection organization in the region.
Why St. Pauly collects clothing:
East Woods Presbyterian Church is a sponsor of the St Pauly Textile Drop-off Shed. You will find a drop-off shed on our campus as you come into our parking lot.
What to Donate:
What Not to Donate:
By donating your closed to our St Pauly Textile Drop-off Shed you will:
Drop off donations any time of the day. Help us keep your donation clean and dry. If possible, please put in tied or closed bags.
Thank you!
Missions We Support Seasonally
THE LIGHTHOUSE PROJECT
(ANG BAHAY PAROLA)
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
The Lighthouse Project is a mission for the homeless and street children in the Philippines. They provide education, group homes, discipleship and counseling programs.
WHEN DOES THIS OCCUR?
Collection of donated items is July through mid September. Items are packaged and shipped the end of September.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Help us pack up donation that need to be shipped to the Philippines.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Donate clothing, toiletries, non-perishable food items and school supplies as noted in our church announcements.
EVERGREEN HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
Evergreen Habitat for Humanity exists to help break the cycle of poverty and revitalize neighborhoods in the Vancouver area by providing permanent housing to low-income families. Homes are built by volunteer labor and donations. Habitat sells homes to families after they complete sweat-equity hours. The mortgage payments go into a revolving fund to build future homes.
WHEN DOES THIS OCCUR?
Houses are built every 4 years.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Houses are built every four years with the combined resources of Churches in Partnership (CIP)**. Help us build a house during our next build or repair an existing one.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
It costs $75,000 to build one Habitat home. Each CIP church is asked to donate a portion of that amount. Your cash donation will go to East Woods contribution goal.
Donate some treasure to provide utility hook-ups, purchase tax deductible materials, or financially assist when it is needed.
Click here for more information about Evergreen Habitat for Humanity.
The CHRISTMAS GIVING Tree
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
Each year our mission team selects needy children and their wish items for our members to provide Christmas gifts to them. Many times these are given to the families we have met through our Habitat for Humanity association. Tags for the children are found on our "Christmas Giving Tree". The tree is found in the Evergreen Room (Narthex) each November and December.
WHEN DOES THIS OCCUR?
The tree is available in mid November through early December. Delivery of the gifts to the children occurs in mid December.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Volunteer your time to help us box and delivery these gifts to the individual families selected.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Pick a child's tag from the tree. Then purchase, wrap and place an appropriate gift under the tree during the designated time. Gifts are distributed before Christmas.
CEDEPCA
PROTESTANT CENTER FOR
PASTORAL STUDIES IN CENTRAL AMERICA
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
CEDEPCA is a Christian organization based in Guatemala City, serving Central America's churches. The goal is to form thoughtful, compassionate disciples of Jesus Christ and offer tools to eradicate violence and injustice. Educational programs are offered that transform lives and bring together Christians of many different faiths to deepen and strengthen their ability to confront issue facing their communities.
WHEN DOES THIS OCCUR?
Look for announcements in our weekly bulletin.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Experience Guatemala firsthand through an Intercultural Encounter this October 2015. Through immersion experiences and work projects, you can experience everyday life in Guatemala and work alongside local communities.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Financial donations are always welcome to support programs. A recent collection helped build many water purification filters for only $2 each.
Click here for more information about CEDEPCA.
FRIENDS OF THE CARPENTER SALE
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
This annual fundraiser directly supports Friends of the Carpenter mission.
WHEN DOES THIS OCCUR?
Two Sundays in November. Check the church bulletin and newsletter for sale dates in November.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Volunteer to help with the sale and set up of the items.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Opportunities to purchase these handmade, wooden items. These can make perfect Christmas gifts or other gift giving ideas.
Heritage Farms Garden
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
Want to get your hands dirty? The Heritage Farms Garden is a community of gardening fun to address local hunger by planting, weeding and harvesting food for the Clark County Food Bank. This Churches in Partnership (CIP)** effort has produced well over 20,000 pounds of food annually and it continues to grow.
WHEN DOES THIS OCCUR?
Typically we begin during planting season (April) through harvesting time (November).
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Volunteer at the 78th Street Farm Acreage. Work parties happen every Wednesday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to noon. They gather from planting season through harvest. This is a great excuse to dig in the dirt or pick produce for those in need.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Watch for periodic church announcements on how to help.
THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
Boxes of food are collected and assembled to make complete Thanksgiving meals (from turkey to pie) for needy families in our community.
WHEN DOES THIS OCCUR?
Collection of money and food items occurs during November. Delivery of baskets is the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Volunteer to help pack and deliver food boxes to these needy families.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Donate money or help purchase food items to help fill the Thanksgiving boxes. Watch for announcements in the church bulletin and newsletter about items needed.
Missions We Support Weekly and Monthly
Friends of the Carpenter
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
We are a faith-based day shelter that provides safety and a sense of purpose that changes the lives of the poor or those with special needs. While wood devotional items are made at the shelter, the main product is relationships. Helping those who have encountered difficulties see them themselves as people of worth and bring their lives back on track.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
There are a wide variety of things you can help with from wood work to court advocacy. Check their website for suggestions.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Attend fundraisers, purchase wooden gift items, donate financial resources. Shop or donate to the 2nd Chance Thrift Store at 3414 NE 52nd Street (the corner of 53rd Street & St John's Blvd) in Vancouver.
Click here for more information on Friends of the Carpenter.
Mill Plain Elementary School
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
East Woods has partnered with Mill Plain Elementary School, a high poverty school in the Evergreen School District, to support teachers and students.
East Woods volunteers provide shoe sponsors, spring break food donators and classroom volunteers.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Purchase SCRIP* gift cards to stores that sell shoes, hats, gloves and socks. Target is recommended since it is located next door to the school.
If you are interested in joining us with this partnership or want more information, please contact Conni Pfeifer or Jackie Tyler.
prayer shawl ministry
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
Shawls are given as a tangible expression of God's love and blessed with prayers so the ones who receive them may be "cradled in hope, kept in joy, graced with peace, and wrapped in love, in good as well as difficult times." They are distributed to hospitals, friends and relative in need.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Join in for conversation and a wonderful time knitting and crocheting prayer shawls for those in need. Everyone is welcome. Experience is not necessary.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
It costs $18-$25 to purchase yarn to make a shawl. Purchase a SCRIP* gift card to a store that sells yarn or consider a financial donation for supplies. Any amount is welcome!
Bridgetown Ministries
because People Matter
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
Night Strike, a service offered by Bridgetown Ministries, is a unique gathering under the Burnside Bridge that serves Portland's homeless. People come to receive a haircut, shave, feet washed, replace old shoes and clothing, get sleeping bags, medical attention, a meal and just hanging out.
Night Strike - every Thursday nights from 7-10 p.m.
Bridgetown Ministries, Inc exists to develop and sustain relational environments that create movement within groups and individuals to demonstrate love and generosity lived out in the world. Their central themes are to creates relational environments that provide Relief, Mobilization and Transformation.
Click here for more information about Bridgetown Ministries.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
Volunteer any Thursday evening from 7 to 10 p.m.
Meet at the Liberation Street Church at 214 Burnside Street, Portland at 7 p.m. Assignments will be given prior to meeting under the bridge. We then transition together to the site under the Burnside Bridge at approximately 7:50 p.m.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
Below is a list of items currently needed at Night Strike. You can bring these items when you volunteer or leave at the church for our volunteers to take to them.
Donations are accepted on Thursday prior to Night Strike at Liberation Street Church between 3:00-7:00pm.
Check out their Amazon Wish List!
Click here for more information about Night Strike.
Family Promise of Clark County
To Complete . . .
Share House
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
Share House serves the hungry and homeless in the Vancouver area and leads them towards self-sufficiency by providing food, shelter, housing, education, advocacy and compassion.
With fall weather, the Orchards Inn, Share House homeless facility, fills up with families.
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER (MY TIME AND TALENT)?
There are a variety of ways you can help at Share House. Check their website for suggestions.
HOW CAN I DONATE (MY TREASURE)?
The next time you are shopping, please pick up a few cans of fruit, vegetables or dry cereal to put in our Share House food bin in the Narthex under the "Church Happenings" information tables.
Click here for more information about Share.
Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
Wednesday, Jan. 22 6:00pm
We love our volunteers and would like to have a dinner just for you!
Please join us at this dinner where we gather to honor those who work so diligently and faithfully, doing the work of the church in our community and congregation.
Please RSVP to Susie in the church office so that we know how many guests to plan for at this event.
Family Christmas Eve Service
December 24th | 5:00pm
Please join us for Christmas Eve, as we celebrate the coming of Jesus, our Lord. Songs, Scripture, Stories, and Candelight adorn this service designed for the whole family!
Christmas Eve Service
December 24th @ 5:00pm
Please join us for Christmas Eve, as we celebrate the coming of Jesus, our Lord. Songs, Scripture, Stories, and Candelight adorn this service designed for the whole family!
Christmas Pageant
December 15th during service
Our Annual Christmas Pageant will be held on December 15th during the 10:00 a.m. service.
We will hold rehearsals during Sunday School on December 1 and 8, with a "dress rehearsal" on Saturday, December 14th. There will also be walk-on parts for all ages, pre-K through adult.
We hope that your children will be able to be a part of this simple but important telling of Jesus' birth.!
Christmas Pageant
December 15th, during 10:00 a.m. service
Our annual Christmas Pageant will be held on December 15th during our 10:00 a.m. service.
We will hold rehearsals during Sunday School on December 1 and 8 and a “dress rehearsal” on Saturday, December 14 . There will also be walk-on parts for all ages, pre-K through adult.
We hope that your children will be able to be a part of this simple but important telling of Jesus' birth.
Carols & Cocoa
Sunday, Dec. 15th 6:30 p.m.
Join us for an evening of caroling in the neighborhood followed by cocoa and cookies at the church afterward.
This will be a fun, festive time for the whole family!
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact Kevin Gates, our Children & Youth Director, at (503) 866-8904 or kevin@eastwoodspres.org; Jeff Kennedy, Elder of Youth Ministries, at (360) 600-3608 or Jeff.Kennedy@member.mensa.org.
Thanksgiving
Food Drive
November 3-17
We are collection food for the Interfaith Treasure House in Camas, a non-profit, charitable organization providing food, clothing, and emergency assistance to children and families in need in the Camas/Wahougal area.
Please Donate: Traditional Thanksgiving meal items or other non-perishable foods - see list in Narthex.
Donations accepted from Nov 3-17th in box marked "Treasure House Food Drive".
For more information contact Jackie Tyler at 360-718-8005.
Operation Christmas Child
Please have shoe boxes to Church by November 17th
Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritan's Purse, an international relief organization that works around the world. From Children to Seniors, people pack shoebox gifts each year to bless children across the globe and at home.
There are different ways you can help:
1. Pack a shoebox.
2. Donate items for a shoebox.
3. Donate $9 to ship a shoebox.
Packing a shoebox is easy, and a fun family activity. Choose to pack a box for a boy or girl from 3 different age groups. You can use any average size shoebox or we have some available Sunday mornings.
Shop for items to fill a shoebox. You can find a list of suggested items on the Missions board or online. Please no liquids, toothpaste, or candy.
You can leave a message in the box if you wish, and you should pray over the box. Before closing the lid, place the suggested donation of $9 on top so it's easy to find (Checks can be made out to "Samaritan's Purse"). When closing the box, please use a rubber band (NOT tape) and make sure it is properly labeled with age group and gender.
Thank you for your support of kids around the world this Christmas!
Questions? Contact Cathy Roeper or call the church office.
Thanksgiving Eve Eve Service
If you are grateful for anything this year
and want to share it in worship with others,
come to the annual
Thanksgiving Eve Eve Service
Tuesday, November 26th.
This year Cascade Presbyterian Church will host the
Churches in Partnership (CIP) service.
The address is 9503 NE 86th St, Vancouver, WA.
The service is 7:00 p.m.
Big Event @ Big Al's
Wednesday, November 13th | 6:00pm
16615 SE 18th Street
East Woods families with “kids” of all ages are invited to join the Youth Group and Family Promise off-site at Big Al’s for bowling and pizza! This will be a great time of fun and fellowship as we play and eat together. $10/person (max $25/family) suggested donation* toward bowling, shoes, pizza, and beverages.
Please contact Kevin to let him know how many you’ll be bringing or for questions. Hope you can join us!
Big Event @ Big Al's
Wednesday, Nov. 13th | 6:00-8:00pm
16615 SE 18th Street
East Woods families with “kids” of all ages are invited to join the Youth Group and Family Promise off-site at Big Al’s for bowling and pizza! This will be a great time of fun and fellowship as we play and eat together. Meet at Big Al's at 6:00pm.
$10/person (max $25/family) suggested donation* toward bowling, shoes, pizza, and beverages.
Please contact Kevin to let him know how many you’ll be bringing or for questions. Hope you can join us!
*Come regardless of your ability to pay. We want you there with us.
Big Event @ Big Al's
Wednesday, Nov. 13th | 6:00-8:00pm
16615 SE 18th Street
East Woods families with "kids" of all ages are invited to join the Youth Group and Family Promise off-site at Big Al's for bowling and pizza! This will be a great time of fun and fellowship as we play and east together. Meet at Big Al's at 6:00pm.
Suggested Donation: $10/per person (max $25/family) toward bowling, shoes, pizza, and beverages.
Please contact Kevin to let him know how many you'll be bringing or for questions. Hope you can join us!
*Come regardless of your ability to pay. We want you there with us.
Worship Service
Sunday Morning 10am
We believe that worship services are an important part of growing and maturing as Christian disciples. And, we think middle school and high school students will not only be enriched by this experience but that it will be a blessing to the whole congregational family to have the students participating in East Woods' morning worship service.
Sunday School & More
Sunday Mornings from 9:00 - 9:45 a.m.
Middle and High School students have their own pre-service time focusing on the Bible and talking about what it means for us today. We will be looking at The Bible Project's series on the book of the Bible. Each week we will look at what the particular book of the Bible means to us today, as well as those to whom it was first written.
Why Small Groups?
It is in small groups that people can get close enough to know each other, to care and share, to challenge and support, to confide and confess, to forgive and be forgiven, to laugh and weep together, to be accountable to each other, to watch over each other and to grow together. Personal growth does not happen in isolation. It is the result of interactive relationships. Small groups are God's gift to foster changes in character and spiritual growth.
The Goal
God uses people to form people. That is why what happens between you and another person is never merely human-to-human interaction—the Spirit longs to be powerfully at work in every encounter.
So the goal of small groups is to create environments where Spirit-driven, life-giving experiences can flourish. While the type of group or study can help promote a positive environment, the real things that promote a healthy environment for flourishing are prayer, support, service, confession, worship, accountability, conflict resolution, social gatherings, and simply doing life together.
Biblical Basis for Small Groups
God himself is in a community of three persons in one—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who exist in perfect unity. So it is not surprising that from the beginning, God created us to be in community with one another. Genesis 2:18 states: "It is not good for man to be alone." This passage is often used in the context of marriage, but it also speaks to our fundamental need to connect with others in the human community. What is striking about this statement is that God makes it before the Fall. There's no sin yet and no disobedience; man is in perfect intimacy with God. And yet, God declares that man is alone and that it is not good.
Community is deeply grounded in the nature of God. It flows from who God is. Because he is community, he creates community. It is his gift of himself to humans. Therefore, the making of community may not be regarded as an optional decision for Christians. It is a compelling and irrevocable necessity, a binding divine mandate for all believers at all times.
When Jesus' ministry began, he called 12 disciples to be his primary relational and ministry community. Did Jesus need this motley crew to help him? Not really. But Jesus chose to love them, teach them, and pour himself into relationships with them, thereby creating the first "small group."
The apostles continued Jesus' model and formed a community of believers who loved God and loved one another. Despite incredible persecution and against all odds, this rag tag group of Jesus-followers launched small communities (i.e. church) that proclaimed the gospel and changed the world forever.
Emergency Meal Team
This team provides for food needs in times of personal crisis and/or family illness.
Prayer Chain
The Prayer Chain exists as a way of sharing prayer concerns and needs with our community of faith. When you or someone you know is in the midst of personal/physical pain and struggle, it is helpful to know that there are people lifting your needs to God in prayer.
If you have a prayer request, please click on the highlighted words.
Bill Reeburgh
Deacon of the Month
Like many of us here at East Woods, Bill is not a native Pacific Northwesterner; he was born and raised in Port Arthur, Texas. While in graduate school, Bill met Carelyn during a summer course held at the Bermuda Biological Station. After this 10-week course, they both knew they had met “the one” and were married the following summer. Both Bill and Carelyn enjoyed active and meaningful lives in academia and together had three children: Scott, Nancy and Peter; the children blessed them with six grandchildren.
Also, like many of us, Bill moved to Vancouver to be closer to his children. Sadly, his move here was the result of Carelyn’s diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s in 2008. After a family meeting, the decision was made for bill to retire from the University of California, Irvine, and to move for support to a location nearer to the children. Bill moved to Vancouver in 2009, and visited East Woods when Rev. Laurel Neal was the interim Pastor. Laurel shared with him that her father had been an Alzheimer’s patient, and based on the understanding Laurel offered and the welcome he received from members of the congregation, he decided East Woods was the church for him and became a member himself.
Bill is currently active with HOPE, a local dementia support group. Many members of the group who have “made the journey” return to offer experience- based advice to newcomers. Bill hopes that his experience in this area will benefit the Deacons’ Ministry.
Bill is Deacon to: Jack and Marge Mace, Shelton and Jackie Tyler, Rich Adamson, Ron Prestwood, Carol Domench, Gordon Wehner, and Chuck Gehle.
We LOVE East Woods
"We love East Woods" by doing what we do best - eat!
We shared a meal together and discussed what we love best about East Woods.
Below are some samples of comments gathered.
"The close community of members."
"Family, food, friendships, fellowship, using my God-given talents for Christ."
"I love the people!"
"I love East Woods because . . . it's a wonderful family to my family and friends. My friends who don't attend - even my family who doesn't attend - they all know God is blessing this church."
"I LOVE Pastor Bill's preaching and the fellowship we share."
"The inspiring pastor, the friendly people,
wonderful music and the heart for service."
"I love Pastor Bill, I love the people,
I love the openness and loving feeling, and I love the families."
"Every time I step through the doors of East Woods it is a blessing. East Woods welcomed me and allowed me to grow in my professional ministry."
"The warmth, love and fellowship was felt the moment I arrived at East Woods.
I instantly knew I found my church home."
"I love you because you show me, you teach me and express me how to be a great person. Sometimes I'm very bad, so I really appreciated what I'm learning and having. I LOVE YOU, GUYS!!! You always make me happy and understand. XOXOXOXOXOXOXO"
"I love the hearts of the congregation - so willing to share with those in need."
"East Woods has a congregation of loving and caring Christians.
We love our church home."
"Love the pastor and sermons and the friendliness of the congregation.
Fee at home here."
"The joy of worship, in prayer, in song and in the Word.
Becoming one heart and one voice worshipping our Lord."
"We love the warmth of our church family,
as well as the focus on the love and grace of Jesus.
We also love Bill's humble spirit and genuine care for us and all the congregation."
"I love the love I get at East Woods."
"The smallness of the church.
I want it to grow but also to stay small in relationships."
"The people and Bill."
"The people. The balanced mix of traditional and contemporary."
"Caring, Respect, Support, People"
"The wonderful, loving people of East Woods."
Fall Kick-Off
Sunday, September 8th
On September 8th we kick off our Fall line up of regular classes, celebrate the new school year with the annual Blessing of the Backpacks, and follow it all up with an all-church BBQ lunch. We hope you'll join us!
East Woods Theology Book Club
Meet on the 2nd and 4th Sundays at 9:00 a.m.
Carol Domench leads this small group, meeting every second and fourth Sunday over the summer at 9:00 a.m. in the Willow Room.
Our next book is
"The Powers That Be:
Theology for a New Millennium"
by Walter Wink
We hope to engage in thoughtful discussions that resonate with us individually and affirm our faith, find new ideas we many not have considered before, and welcome all perspectives.
If you enjoy reading, exploring a little more deeply into questions we face as Christians and having lively discussions, come join in.
For more information contact Carol Domench at 360-687-6911 or email her at kazooie@pacifier.com.
Presbyterian Women's Bible Study
Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the Month
Bible Study meets every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 10:00 AM at the church. We meet at the same place and time and continue through May. We will start up in September after a summer break.
Presbyterian Women started in 1988 although its roots date back to the mid-1800's. They have been designing Bible study material for women for over 30 years.
If you're interested in additional information about this organization, please check out their website: http://www.presbyterianwomen.org
Any questions?
Please see either Peggy Konzek or Lynne Helmke
PS: We wish we could have honored every survey request, however there was not enough interest in having an evening or weekend group. We will review that again in the future.
Kevin Gates
Our new Children and Youth Director
East Woods is thrilled to introduce our new Children & Youth Director, Kevin Gates! Kevin will officially takes over over responsibilities of the Children and Family Ministry and Youth Ministry starting this summer.
Kevin is a native of the Pacific Northwest and first began his work in ministry with youth in 1993 as an intern at Covenant Presbyterian Church while attending Multnomah University. He has since worked with youth and music ministries at numerous churches in both Oregon and Washington. After years of volunteer and intern positions in youth ministry, Kevin went to Warner Pacific University, graduating with a Bachelors degree in Religion & Christian Ministries in 2010. He served as the Director of Youth Ministries at Walla Walla Presbyterian Church from 2011 to 2014 before beginning his M.Div program at San Francisco Theological Seminary in 2015.
Leaving seminary to take care of his late wife during her cancer journey, Kevin moved back to Portland, where he volunteered with youth and music leadership at Oak Hills Presbyterian for the last three years. Kevin is transitioning back into full-time ministry while looking at also restarting his seminary journey soon.
Kevin currently lives in Milwaukie, Oregon with his step-daughter, Laura, a small Pomeranian, Mako, and an orange tabby, Oscar. He enjoys watching Sci-Fi, playing and listening to music (he plays guitar, bass, drums and a mean mandoline), and cooking up amazing dishes for his friends and family.
Kevin's contact information is kevin@eastwoodspres.org.
To Mars & Beyond!
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Our Children and Families Ministry is excited to announce our
2019 TO MARS & BEYOND
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
which is a combined program with
East Woods Presbyterian &
Mill Plain United Methodist Churches.
The program will be held on the East Woods Presbyterian campus. This interfaith program is scheduled for Sunday, June 23 through Thursday, June 27, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Come join us for To Mars and Beyond! Let’s explore God through our universe together! The children will participate in Bible story time, science and craft activities, music, games, and worship. Classes are available for children entering kindergarten through sixth grade (as of fall of 2019).
Registration is available now. The VBS fee is $15 per child.
When you register do the following:
Our program starts Sunday, June 23, 5 p.m. We ask you to pack a brown paper bag meal for those in your family. Beverages will be provided.
Children get a t-shirt on Sunday which is color coded to the group to which he/she is assigned. Wearing this shirt each day helps facilitate the activities.
Volunteers Needed
VBS only works when we have volunteers. Parents are welcomed to help in both planning and during the program. Check out our list of need volunteers at this link: VBS Volunteers Needed.
Thank you for sharing your child with us this week. We know it will be rich in faith, friends, and fun.
For more information, contact Cathy Roeper, cathyroeper@gmail.com from East Woods Presbyterian or Deborah Miles, debbers63@msn.com, 360-852-5031, from Mill Plain UMC.
Vacation Bible School is Back!
Celebrating 10 Years in Our Building
On January 27, 2008, the East Woods congregation realized the fulfillment of a long-standing dream. We hosted our first worship service in our newly constructed church campus and dedicated it to the glory of God and the blessing of our community.
On January 7th, we celebrated our 10th anniversary in this building. We worshipped God together and cut cake to renew our dedication and that of our wonderful campus. The Fellowship Commission hosted the party in our Evergreen Hall following our 10 AM worship service.
Please click on the link to watch Scott, Melanie and Marin Phillips share some memories of this time in the life of the church.
God's blessings on East Woods Presbyterian Church and its members!
A "Thank You" Flag from the Navy
On Sunday, July 2, Chief Michael Carmichael and Pastor Bill folded and presented an American flag, certificate of dedication, and letter of appreciation to the East Woods congregation that has given flight to my chaplaincy with the Navy and Marine Corps.
The flag was flown with a Harrier squadron based in Bahrain as part of the country's anti-terrorism campaign Operation Inherent Resolve. The letter of appreciation was written by my chaplain predecessor with the 6th Engineer Support Battalion, Chaplain Gene Monnin, who was mobilized in Bahrain during the past year.
We appreciate the men and women of our armed services. We are grateful to share our Pastor with them.
A Lesson in Humility
Excerpt from the August Newsletter, by Pastor Bill Sperry.
The Believe series and curriculum has been a joyful experiment for me, and I hope it has been meaningful for those of you who’ve participated in Sunday services, Connecting Time discussions, book studies, or youth and children’s ministries.As I prepare my final sermon in the Believe sermon series, focusing on the virtue of humility, I’m planning to share a story of humility that has personally filled my spiritual tank during these past few weeks. It’s a story of a distracted pastor, a lost iPhone, and a humble man named Michael who brought the pastor and the iPhone back together again.
In July, Ben, Will and I joined the East Woods Youth Group for a bus ride and train ride to the Portland Zoo. It was a great day, right up until the literal last minute, when I accidentally left my iPhone on the #65 C-TRAN bus at the Fisher’s Landing station. Two days later, I was contacted by C-TRAN with the good news that my phone had been turned in to Lost and Found and was ready for pick-up. It was fully charged and in perfect condition.
Two days after I reclaimed my phone, a small, blue slip of paper fell out of the case. And, on that paper was Michael’s name, phone number, and a short note clarifying that he had found my phone and could be contacted.The short version of the story is that I contacted Michael and, within an hour of the writing of this article, I plan to meet this hard-working African-American man near Parkrose to treat him to lunch and a “thank you” handshake.
When we connected by phone, he said, “I didn’t write the note with the hope of receiving a reward. This is my reward – the chance to make a connection with another person and know that everything worked out alright.” Wow! Philippians 2:3-4 says this, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.” Michael has been a great and living example of those words during the past few weeks.
Sharing God's Love
Sunday, July 30th
During the week of July 23rd, Pastor Bill met with Michael in person to shake hands and get to know each other better. In that meeting, Bill learned that Michael had been on the bus on the day the phone was found because he didn't have a car and was actively saving money to afford one. Before the two parted company, they shared a prayer asking God to provide the means for Michael to have the right car at the right time to help meet his family's needs.
On the way home from the meeting, God stirred Bill's heart to help Michael get a car. So, Bill reached out to Bob Pfeifer, an expert at finding the "right car". And as a gesture to help Michael realize that God is alive and well and working in his life, Pastor Bill asked Bob if he could find a good car for Michael that matched the amount he had been trying to save and - if possible - could be presented in four day's time. Bob had the right contacts and, with God's help, worked some miracles. By Sunday morning, Bob had a "golden chariot" ready to present to this young man and his family.
During the Sunday morning service on July 30, Pastor Bill shared the story as an example of humility, introduced Michael in person to the congregation, and expressed his gratitude for the return of his iPhone. Then, following the Benediction, as an additional surprise, Bill presented the newly found car to Michael with witness from the congregation. It was a beautiful moment conveying the humility, gratitude, and love that God teaches us to share with one another. And what an ending to our 30 week series on "Believe". It was as if the Holy Spirit brought everything together and said, "This is how it is to think, act, and be like Jesus Christ."
There was barely a dry eye in the entire church.
Enjoy the pictures below. They tell the story of Michael receiving his car. They also tell the story of some amazing people letting the Holy Spirit guide their lives.
Night Strike
Loving People Because People Matter
Then thermometer said 104 degrees. You could feel the humidity rising. People were tired, hot, and weary. And yet, Night Strike continued. And several people from East Woods were there to be a part of it.
Night Strike is a community gathering that mobilizes volunteers/services, meets felt needs, and develops relationships that transform lives. It is a unique opportunity for people to spend time under the Burnside Bridge every Thursday night to love people because people matter. It is an opportunity for members of Portland’s homeless community to hang out, enjoy a hot meal, receive a free haircut or shave, have their feet washed and have their old shoes/clothes/sleeping bags replaced. It is also a chance for you to come down and share in the experience, help serve the needs of the homeless in our community, and more importantly, invest in lives and build relationships with the people you meet.
For several of the East Woods participants this was their first experience. But each of them said they would return. We hope you will consider Night Strike, as well. For more information please click on this link: NIGHTSTRIKE
East Woods Attendees (pictures below): Ronda and Dale Peterson, Roberta Schlechter, Gwen Wagner, Keith Bloss, Christine Harington, Jeff and Alex Kennedy, Maddie and Everett Kennedy and friend, Mackenzie, Carson Dunn, Chris Lashley, and Andrew Bither and friend, Danny.
For the One
Sung by Abby Melo
During our service on August 13th, Abby Melo sang this song for Offertory.
This was to be her last time with us until she came home from college at Christmas.
This song is written by Jean Johnson and Paul McClure from Bethel Music in Redding, CA. The words are poignant and Abby sang them beautifully.
Unfortunately, our service recording was poor. So, we had her come over to the Bloss house and re-record it.
As many of you know, Abby was suddenly struck with Guillain Barre Syndrome, a rare disorder in which her body's immune system attacks her nerves. She is at Foothill Presbyterian Hospital in Glendora, CA receiving treatments for it. We hold Abby and her family in prayer during this time and pray for her complete recovery to health.
In the meantime enjoy this recording of "For the One".
2019 Welcomes New Staff
We open our year with several new staff members. This is a year of transition for East Woods and we know that God has many good things in the future for us. When you have a moment welcome and congratulate these people who will serve at East Woods in one of the many areas of need. Thank you!
Donna Frasier
Pianist
Donna has stepped up to help with the worship team. Donna will play piano one to two Sundays each month. We love to have her talent and positive energy at the keyboard while we worship.
kaitlin
Nursery Attendent
Lisa Pickering
Worship Music Leader
Lisa began her work as Interim Worship Music Leader in December, 2018. She has been a member of various worship music teams for the past 30 years, including Youth With a Mission in Los Angeles, Crossroads Community Church in Vancouver and East Woods.
A Vancouver native, she studied Music Education at Warner Pacific College and Vanguard University of Southern California and is a certified Early Childhood Music and Movement Educator. After homeschooling her children, she began teaching piano, flute, voice and Kindermusik at Beacock Music in Vancouver in 2010. She continues to teach private piano, flute and voice lessons from her home studio and holds Musikgarten classes at East Woods.
She is married to Kirk, who serves as elder for East Woods’ Growth and Integration ministry. Between them they have two sons and two daughters, a wonderful daughter-in-law and five beautiful grandchildren. She enjoys playing and listening to music, reading, picnicking, golf, skiing, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.
Pr Brian Craker
Pastor (During Pr Bill's Deployment)
Rev. Brian Craker (pronounced Crā-kĕr) has been involved in church ministry for over 25 years, including serving in pastoral roles at five Portland area churches. Brian has been working as an Interim Pastor for the Presbytery of the Cascades over the last ten years, finishing his current assignment as Administrative Pastor (Stated Supply) at Columbia Presbyterian Church in Vancouver, WA.
Brian was born and raised in California, before moving to Portland in 1996. His love for the Pacific Northwest kept him close by for his seminary work, graduating from George Fox University with his Masters of Divinity, and now studying at GFU again, this time for his Doctorate of Ministry.
Brian met his wife Alison at Lake Grove Presbyterian Church, and they have been married for 21 years. They have been blessed with two sons, Tyler (10) and Casey (7). Brian’s hobbies and interests include sports, working with the latest technology, travel, DJ’ing parties and weddings with his brother-in-law Chris, and most of all, having fun with his boys.
Brian’s favorite Biblical passage is Psalm 23. “My life’s journey has not always been an easy one, and I’ve had to suffer through a number of family losses during my life. One of the reasons that my faith in the Lord is so strong is because I have experienced the Lord walking with me through those valleys of the ‘shadow of death.’ I’ve experienced that divine comfort that the Lord provides through the Holy Spirit and through his people of the Church, and my life and my ministry have been so richly blessed...truly ‘my cup runs over.’ It has shaped how I view my life and the ministry God has called me to, as well as my desire to serve as the hands and feet of Christ.”
For more about Brian, please go to "Meet Pr Brian".
Don't Sing Songs to a Heavy Heart
A Study for Dealing with Those Who Grieve
Have you ever avoided talking to someone who is grieving because you didn't know what to say to them? Has someone avoided you after you tried to cheer them up?
Most of us know we are not well equipped to handle someone else's pain. But there is help.
Based on "Don't Sing Songs to a Heavy Heart," come learn how to comfort others with compassion and effectively.
The class is offered one more time on March 31st at 9:00 AM prior to church service.
For more information contact Cynthia Younger or call her at 360-837-2381.
The Touch of Class Chorale
The Gospel of Jazz
Friday, May 3, 7 PM
This concerts benefits
"Family Promise" of Clark County
Tickets are:
Adults $12.00
Children (6-16) $10.00
Children under 6 are free
Holy Week and Easter Schedule
Palm Sunday I April 14 I 10 AM
Good Friday (Tenebrae Service) I April 19 I 7 PM
Annual Easter Egg Hunt I April 20 I 11 AM
Easter Sunday (Sunrise Service) I April 21 I 6:30 AM
Easter Sunday Service I April 21 I 10 AM
Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Bring the kids and grandkids to help us find all the eggs left on our campus for the Annual Easter Egg Hunt.
Saturday I April 20 I 11:00 AM
Available Positions
Contact for both positions please reach out to the following:
Chuck Dunn
Email: personnel@eastwoodspres.org
Church # (360) 944-5841
Church Address:
16210 NE 20th St.
Vancouver, WA 98684-6773
Worship music leader
Part Time – approx 6 to 10 hours per week
Salary: $20/hour
Accountability and Experience:
Accountable to the Pastor and the Session through the Personnel Committee. The Worship Music Leader will also work with the Worship Commission along with other staff members and volunteers. Our ideal candidate’s life and ministry will demonstrate worship in a way that excites the hearts of others to do the same. Ideally, he/she will be a skilled guitar player and singer. We will consider other instruments in the application. He/she will celebrate and maintain East Woods’ blend of traditional and contemporary worship music, enlisting songs familiar to the congregation and also introducing new songs that can be effective in our context.
Responsibilities:
Evaluation Process:
Formal performance reviews will be conducted six months after hiring and then annually by the Pastor as the Head of Staff and the Session’s Personnel Committee. The candidate must also be open to receiving weekly feedback and constructive criticism from the Pastor and Worship Commission as a means to improve the overall weekly worship experience.
nursery ATTENDANT
Part Time – approximately 2.5 to 4 hours per week
Salary: $13.50/hour
Purpose:
To provide for the safety, care, activities and supervision of children ages birth through four years during East Woods Sunday morning worship services and programs, as well as during occasional special services and events.
Personal Description:
The East Woods Presbyterian Church Nursery Attendant should be someone who displays a solid commitment to Jesus Christ, a deep love for God and a passionate dedication to children and their care. He or she should be comfortable, experienced, and competent in caring for – and relating with – infants, toddlers, and young children.
The Nursery Attendant should be organized and detail-oriented, able to communicate well with children and their parents, able to manage and work with a team, energetic and creative and attentive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Responsibilities:
Communication Responsibilities:
Hourly Expectation:
Compensation:
Contract:
Contact: Email: personnel@eastwoodspres.org
It's RETREAT Time, Ladies!
Get March 8th through the 10th on your calendar for our Women’s Retreat. This is a weekend to share life with the women of this church in a beautiful setting away from the busyness of life.
The curriculum is based on the book “Everyone Always” by Bob Goff. We won’t read the book during the weekend, but we will use his video bible study as a basis for our conversations. Gwen will customize it for East Woods. You are encouraged to read it on your own before coming to the retreat. Gwen recommends the beautiful message this book offers. And it will get you in the right frame of mind for the weekend.
Please sign up in the narthex for the retreat. Invite a friend to join you.
The fees for the weekend are $115 if you stay overnight (I highly encourage you to stay) or $65 for the day rate. Both include the materials and food.
Be in prayerful consideration about joining us March 8 – 10. Also, pray for all you plan the retreat; we will be praying for you, as well. If you have any questions, please contact Gwen Wagner or Peggy Konzek.
Gwen and Peggy
Pastor Bill's Bon Voyage
Sunday, January 6, 11:30 a.m.
Please join us in celebration of Pastor Bill and help us give him a wonderful send-off for his military deployment to Bahrain in January.
We will serve an Italian meal and have a program to follow.
Please RSVP by December 30th in one of the following ways:
Any questions, please address them to Peggy Konzek 360-903-2168 at or Bob Pfeifer at 503-381-9787.
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS
GIVING TREE
Gifts due by December 9th
It’s time once again to take a tag from the EWPC Giving Tree in the narthex and buy a gift for someone less fortunate. The process is the same as in previous years. The gifts will go to Habitat For Humanity families with every member of each family receiving two gifts. Habitat selects families based on their need. Working with Habitat families also provides an opportunity for EW members/families to have a more personal connection by participating in the delivery of gifts.
Here is how it works:
Pick one or more tag(s) from the tree.
Put your name and phone number on the list, located on the counter by
the tree, opposite the number that matches your tag(s). i.e. 1A or 1B, 2A or 2B etc. (Note there are 2 tags with the same name but each with a different gift) Signing up in the right spot is very important!
Purchase the gift requested, wrap it and put the tag on the package. It is also important that the same tag is back on the gift!
Put your wrapped gift under the tree before or by Sunday, Dec. 9th!
If you wish to participate in the delivery of gifts between Dec. 16th and 22rd , there is a separate sign-up sheet on the counter. You will sign up for a specific family.The number in the family, including children’s ages and the address will be listed,but the family names and contact information will only be given to EW members who have signed up to deliver them.
Questions? Contact Judy England at 360-601-7567 or Nancy Dean at 360-609-8474.
Annual Churches in Partnership Thanksgiving Eve/Eve Service
Tuesday, November 20th at 7 p.m.
This year the Churches in Partnership Thanksgiving Eve/Eve Service will be at
First Presbyterian Church, 4300 Main St, Vancouver, WA on
Tuesday, November 20th at 7 p.m.
Edd Boddy, the Music Director at First Presbyterian extends an invitation to all singers to participate in the Combined Choir for the service. Edd can be reached at 503-572-7105.
What a wonderful way to give thanks to God by joining our Presbyterian friends across Vancouver for this service!
Needed: FAM Festival Volunteers
Besides attending this event, we are looking for help to make it successful.
How can you help? Please consider the following:
Help volunteer with set up, take down, food-beverage-dessert service, auction services during the event, greeters, runner, help where needed.
Please register with our online service at:
(No personal information will be shared. This is a private site.)
We pray you will consider this. We need help, and we know some of you are looking for ways to do this. Thank you!
FAM Musical Line-Up
Here's the musical line-up for FAM. There is something for everyone.
10:30 The Singing Senior (Bobby Derricotte) from Holy Redeemer
Catholic Church
11:00 Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish Choir
11:30 Unity Family & Friends (Gospel)
12:30 St John Lutheran Fellowship of Ringers (Bell Choir)
1:00 Brush Prairie Bluegrass Band
2:00 Jim Fischer & Friends (Dr. Keith Collins on bass and Kimberly
Hall on vocals) (This is our headline act.)
3:00 Mac Potts (Jim Fischer invited him. He is a young, blind
piano player with incredible talent.
4:00 Brent Vernon “Brent and Sam” - a ventriloquist and vocalist
5:00 Duane Sich & Friends - "sing-along" of praise and worship
music
5:30 Ron and Donna Fraiser Presents Songs of Western Musicals
6:00 Vancouver Brass Ensemble
6:30 Lewis River Dixie Unplugged
"FAM"
Food-Art-Music Festival
A Fundraiser for "Family Promise"
August 18th
10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
East Woods is proud to be one of the churches that will support Family Promise in the years to come. Family Promise is a program for helping homeless children and their families’ transition into stable, permanent housing. (More information below).
East Woods Presbyterian Church, one of the 13 local churches in the Clark County Family Promise network is hosting an all-day fundraiser at its location on Saturday, August 18th. The event called
“FAM” Festival
will feature great food, artisans, auction items, and an all-day lineup of great musicians and music, featuring
Jim Fischer & Friends at 2 p.m.
(Dr Keith Collins, Kimberly Hall, Mac Potts)
To learn more about Family Promise in Clark County please visit www.familypromiseofclarkco.org. To learn more about FAM contact Gwen Wagner at gwendolynwagner@gmail.com or Peggy McNees at peggymcnees@comcast.net.
What's Happening at EWPC?
East Woods is alive and well with activities that develop relationships and stewardship.
Take a scroll down our "Church Happenings" page. Perhaps there is one . . . or two . . . for you.
Parables in the Park
Family VBS
June 26th - 28th
5:30 - 7:30 PM
It's not just for the kids!
East Woods is hosting a non-traditional VBS this year. It will be focused on family-time, with dinner served each night, games, crafts, story and songs.
Happening THIS WEEK!
If you didn't pre-register, don't worry - stop by and join the fun!
Lent "Movie Series"
Wednesdays, 6:00-8:30 PM
Pastor Bill and Gwen Wagner will present another option for a Lenten study over four Wednesday nights between February 21 and March 21 – a Wednesday Night Movie Study Series.
Each time we gather, we’ll watch a movie in the sanctuary and then discuss the related Scriptures and themes as they apply to our lives. The topics are broad, with the hope that there will be something of value for everyone. You are welcome to join us for some or all of the movies. Not all topics are family friendly, so we will note when the movie is appropriate for the entire family.
Films will begin at 6 p.m., and discussion will end by 8:30 p.m.
Trailers for our movie selections can be found online by following the web links below.
If you’re excited about the series, let Pastor Bill or Gwen Wagner know. We won’t have a sign up for the movies, but we encourage you to come when you can. If you’d like, feel free to bring a snack to eat during the movie.
This Lent, we hope to see you AT THE MOVIES!
GreateR
FEBRUARY 28
(Family Friendly)
Brandon Burlsworth is perhaps the greatest walk-on in the history of college football. Brandon had always dreamed of playing for the Arkansas Razorbacks, but was considered too short and too fat to play Division I. Undeterred, Brandon took a big risk and walked on in 1994. Written off by fellow teammates and coaches, Brandon displayed dogged determination in the face of staggering odds.
An extremely devoted Christian, Brandon never cursed or drank. He was genuinely humble and low-key. He worked harder than anybody, on and off the field, becoming the first Razorback to earn a Bachelor's and Master's degree while still playing. The overly-fat kid who was once an embarrassment to his teammates and an annoyance to his coaches, ended up becoming the most respected player in the history of the program, changing the lives of all he touched.
The Heart of Man
February 21
The Heart of Man is a cinematic retelling of the parable of the Prodigal Son, interwoven with true testimonials of personal and sexual brokenness. Narrative storytelling and documentary filmmaking are combined like never before to reveal the compassionate heart of God the Father for His sons and daughters, illuminating an age-old truth: shame is not a barrier to God's love, but a bridge to absolute transformation, victory, freedom, and hope.
Wonder
March 14
(FAMILY FRIENDLY)
WONDER tells the incredibly inspiring and heartwarming story of August Pullman. Born with facial differences that, up until now, have prevented him from going to a mainstream school, Auggie becomes the most unlikely of heroes when he enters the local fifth grade. As his family, his new classmates, and the larger community all struggle to discover their compassion and acceptance, Auggie’s extraordinary journey will unite them all and prove you can't blend in when you were born to stand out.
Christ in YOU
MArch 21
Our generation is being bombarded with sin, destruction and death. The news every day is filled with violence, abuse and murder. Hate seems prevalent; hopelessness and apathy, the norm. Many are fighting depression, sickness or poverty. Millions are deceived by lies that are coming at us from all directions. Many wonder if there is a God, after all, and others ask where He is or why He is silent in the midst of disaster. WE have the answer: it is Christ in Us. WE have the ability to change the world around us, to bring light into the darkness. But are WE? Are things really changing? Are cities transformed, are cultures shifting? Or are we holding back the answer this hurting world needs because of fear, mediocrity and distraction?
Women's Retreat
Lincoln City
February 23-25
It's spring and at East Woods that means its time for the Annual Women's Retreat. This year we have a new venue for us to enjoy! Lakeside, anyone?!!
The fees this year are $115 per woman. This includes lodging, food, and supplies we need.
And this year we are excited to present “Love Does” for our retreat. In this study, we will introduce the whimsy of New York Times best-selling author Bob Goff, in sometimes humorous, thought-provoking, meaningful lessons that make faith in God simple and real.
The focus is Love. But not the kind of love that stops at thoughts and feelings. This love takes action, just like Jesus did. The study leads us to deeper group discussion and personal reflections and actions to enhance our experience together.
Our goal is to come away with steps to grow our love with others. When Love Does, life gets interesting. Light and fun, unique and profound, the lessons drawn from Bob's experience and attitude just might inspire you to be secretly incredible too.
Titles of Sessions include:
1. I’m With You
2. Free to Fail
3. Audacious Love
4. Be Not Afraid
5. Follow Me
Please sign up in Evergreen Hall (Narthex) or let Peggy Konzek or Gwen Wagner know you have an interest in attending. We’d “love” to share this weekend with you and grow closer in Christ and friendship.
|
Annual Congregational Meeting
Sunday, January 28th, after service
|
Souper Bowl of Caring
Youth Group
Sunday, February 4th
Mark your calendars - Sunday, February 4th is Souper Bowl of Caring.
Since 1990, young people have been leading the charge and inspiring others to collect dollars and food in the weeks leading up to the Big Game. Teaming up with local partners, these groups give 100% of donations to local charities, changing the nation's largest weekend of football into the largest weekend of caring.
The East Woods Youth Group will be supporting this mission. Bring your extra change, bills, or write a check to the church to support this mission of our Youth Group.
Find out more information about this national event at: www.souperbowl.org
Land Sale Vote Recap and Next Steps
Dear East Woods Members,
The Vote: As planned, on November 19, 2017 the East Woods congregational membership conducted a vote to decide the issue of selling up to two acres of unimproved land (east yard). Members were required to attend an informational meeting regarding the future direction of East Woods and gain an understanding of how the proposed land sale would impact the current financial situation. Votes were accepted beginning November 5 until 1:00PM on November 19. Votes could be cast in person, via mail or email.
The Count: The vote count was conducted on Sunday afternoon shortly after 1:00 PM. A team of 4 made up of 2 Session members assisted by 2 Finance Commission members formed the Count Team. Ballots were compared to the EWPC membership rolls and to the informational meeting attendance role’s to insure ballots were properly submitted. Votes were tallied by “Yes” or “No” as indicated on the member ballot.
The Vote Result: A total of 70 ballots were submitted from a total church membership of 147. The 70 ballots represent 48% of the eligible members. Of the 70 ballots, three were disqualified due to illegibility or the member could not be identified as having attended an information meeting.
| Total Ballots | 70 |
| Ballots Disqualified | 3 |
| Net Ballots Counted | 67 |
| Yes Ballots | 57 |
| No Ballots | 10 |
| Percentage Yes | 85% |
The final vote results indicate a broad support for moving ahead with selling up to 2 acres of the undeveloped property.
Next Steps: Session has turned the responsibility for engaging a commercial realtor to assist with marketing and receiving any offers for the property over to the Finance Commission.
The Finance Commission will be forming an “ad hoc” committee to develop a “Request for Proposal (RFP)” for interviewing and proposing a Commercial Realtor to Session. This process is intended to be completed by the end of January, 2018.
Based on discussions with the selected realtor, a marketing plan will be developed and the property, under the specific constraints established by Session (the price floor and acre limitation), will be marketed. Offers meeting the bid requirements will be reviewed by the Finance Commission and forwarded to Session with their recommendation.
Timing for completing the sale is not known at this time.
If you have any questions about the Next Steps please contact anyone on the Finance Committee. Thank you.
EWPC Finance Committee
Made to Crave Bible Study
Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in the Maple Room
Do you want to get healthy but find yourself stuck in a cycle of excuses?
Woman and Men, join us as we complete a 6-week study helping us to turn our cravings toward God instead of food.
Please join us for the Made to Crave group, meeting here Wednesday evenings at 6 PM. Our next meeting is on January 4th.
Don't worry if you can't make all the sessions. Come when you can.
Gwen has extra books.
Questions? Ask Peggy Konzek or Gwen Wagner.
Youth Christmas Party
Dec 20th, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Christmas Party will be on Wednesday, December 20, 6:30-8:30 PM.
Along with food, fun and games, we will be exchanging home-made Christmas cards. We will draw names between now and the party date.
Extra cards will be gifted to visitors, so feel free to bring a friend. Card-making and crafting advice available upon request!
Christmas Eve Services
Dec 24, 5 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Please feel welcome to join us for our Christmas Eve Service to celebrate the birthday of our King!
Neighborhood Caroling Party
Wednesday, Dec 13th, 6:30 p.m.
On Wednesday, December 13th, you're invited to help East Woods' neighbors enjoy the Most Wonderful Time of the Year with some Christmas Caroling.
We'll meet in Evergreen Hall at 6:30 PM to pray and then heading out to stroll and sing through the local neighborhoods. We'll be back in Evergreen Hall by 8:00 PM for toasty beverages, snacks, and a chance to praise God together for His faithfulness and favor.
Pray for clear skies, and dress warmly for our time outside. Feel free to bring friends, jingle bells, or other instruments to make the event even more fun. Song sheets will be provided.
Contact Pastor Bill with any questions at Bill@eastwoodspres.org
Touch of Class Christmas Concert
December 10 at 2 p.m.
It's that time of the year! Touch of Class is performing their annual Christmas concert at our church. This year's performance will be many familiar songs from those classic to contemporary ones you love.
Touch of Class also shares 50% of their proceeds with East Wood's charity of choice. What a blessing this choir has been to us!
Come and share an enjoyable Sunday afternoon listening to the songs that touch your heart during the Christmas Season.
Volunteer Appreciation Lunch
December 9 at 11 a.m.
Attention Volunteers
Holiday Market
The Holiday Market is back!
It's time to pick up a hostess gift or get those gifts that need to be in the mail soon.
COMPANIES & NEW OFFERINGS
Ken & June’s Hazelnuts from St. Paul, OR returns. New flavor this year is dark sea salted hazelnut! The rounds – with 4 nut flavors are especially popular.
Award winning Rose City Pepperhead Jellies from Portland returns. Crazy Cranberry is a new flavor. In addition to the mini trios, we have large jars in 3 popular flavors.
New! Killa Bites Biscotti & Flavored Popcorns from Ridgefield, WA. The personal story behind this owner makes these items all the sweeter! She started the company to provide for their family when her husband was diagnosed with ALS. The owners credit their faith and church communities with their success.
Mini biscotti in 3 flavors.
Two popcorn sizes – small and large in 4 flavors.
New! - McSteven’s Cocoa products made in Vancouver.
GIFTS READY FOR GIVING
CROSSES for GIFT GIVING – Donated by Friends of the Carpenter
For a sugar free option, consider buying scrip VISA gift cards or other gift cards from hundreds of merchants. Place your Scrip Gift Card order by Sunday, Dec. 3, and pick your cards up on Sunday Dec. 10.
Market Dates are after church on Dec. 3, 10, and 17.
Click here for your Holiday Market Form if you wish to fill out your form before you come to the market.
Connecting Time
November
Christian Education - (Maple Room) The BOLD Study.
Book Study - Nov 12 and 26th - Love Wins by Rob Bell.
Children - We will be using this time to practice for "Lessons & Carols", a Children's Christmas Presentation happening on Sunday, December 17th during the worship service. All ages are welcome to participate.
Nursery - (Twigs Room) available for ages 0-5 years.
Mission - The Mission Commission will be collecting food items from November 5 through November 19 for Thanksgiving dinners for the families of the faith-based Open House Ministries. In addition to the families who reside in the main shelter, Open House supports subsidized housing for 14 families who have been through their program and are working to become self-supporting.
We will help supply the Thanksgiving meal ingredients and deliver the boxes just before Thanksgiving, November 23. A list of the suggested items will be available on the Opportunity table—consider picking up a few extra items on the list as you do your own shopping. All donations are welcome.
Watch for details in the weekly bulletins, or contact Pat Norby, 360-600-6391, if you have questions.
Walk & Knock
December 2, 8:30 a.m.
Walk and Knock for the Clark County Food Bank
Come join other members of East Woods Presbyterian Church as we go through our neighborhood to collect donations for the Clark County Food Bank, as part of the county-wide Walk and Knock event.
We will meet Saturday, December 2 at 8:30 AM at Pacific Middle School (1/2 mile east of East Woods), to organize, then go out into the neighborhood to pick up bags of food. We should be done in about 3 hours.
Both walkers and cars/trucks are needed. If you can help, please sign the clipboard in the Narthex. Contact Jeff Kennedy with any questions.
Thanksgiving Service
Churches in Partnership will have the annual combined Thanksgiving Worship Service on Tuesday, November 21 at 7 p.m.
This year the service will be at Cascades Presbyterian Church in Vancouver.
WIN A PANERA SALAD
FOR EVERY MONTH FOR A YEAR!
Panera Restaurant has generously donated a certificate good for 12 salads,one a month for a year, beginning January 2018 [$150 value].
Wouldn’t this be a nice present for yourself or perhaps a Christmas gift for someone you know?
We are selling raffle tickets for this certificate.
The winning ticket will be announced on Sunday, November 19. You do not need to be present to win.
Raffle ticket fees:
1 ticket - $5, 3 tickets - $10,
5 tickets - $15, 8 tickets - $20
Youth Group Outing
November 17th
WINTER JAM is an incredible concert at the Moda Center in Portland
featuring the 10 top Christian musical groups from many different genres.
We will meet at East Woods on Friday, Nov. 17 at 4:30 pm and carpool to the Moda Center.
Because of this, Jeff Kennedy needs to know who is interested in going,
and another adult or two who could help drive.
Bring $15 for admission (tickets are purchased at the door) plus extra if you will want to buy food etc.
For more information, contactJeff Kennedy, 360-600-3608.
Pre-School
In Pre-School class youngsters age 3-5 enjoy role playing Bible characters. Using the "Wee Believe” curriculum of the Presbyterian Church (USA) with its colorful, age-appropriate and user- friendly activities, the children learn that each is A Child of God, loved by God, who is Creator of all the World and You and Me, too.
Children's Choir
Children's Choir is a new addition to us here at East Woods Pres, and we are so excited to see this program set out! Any child is welcome to participate!
Rehearsals are held the First Sunday of Each Month from 10:45 to 11:30am - during the 10:30am Service.
Join us on the Second Sunday of each month to hear the children perform during the 10:30am Sunday Service.
Elementary Students
Elementary students (K-Grade 2 and Grades 3-5) occupy their own classroom space. The Sunday school scope and sequence of lessons from the "We Believe" curriculum repeats every three years. In the fall we focus on worship. In November we recount the Advent stories. Each Christmas the children present Lessons and Carols. The spring focuses on Jesus' ministry, death and resurrection.
Lessons & Carols
The children of East Woods Presbyterian Church present to you
"Lessons & Carols" under the direction of Hailey Vandewiele.
There are 8 lessons and five songs in these recordings. We recommend that you play them in the following order to see and hear the story of Jesus' birth unfold with the help of these children. You may have to scroll to one of the other pages to find your media. Enjoy this meaningful story.
Men's Breakfast
November 11th
7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
All men are invited! Bring a friend!
Men's Retreat
October 27-29, Lincoln Ci
Come join the men of East Woods for a time of reflection, fellowship, service, and recreation.
Reserve time for this weekend from October 27 - 29th. Sign ups in the Narthex or contact Rich Adamson.
For more information, click here for the flier: 2017_Retreat_Flier.pdf
TRUNK or TREAT
October 29, 2017
On Sunday, October 29th East Woods will host "Trunk or Treat" in our parking lot.
The time of the event is from 3 to 6 p.m.
Bring the kids and their friends.
We look to getting "spooked" and "ghouled" by the kids.
Restaurant of the Month Club
Join us for "Restaurant of the Month Club". It’s an opportunity to get to know one another a bit better over a shared meal. Each month we introduce a restaurant for members, family and friends to meet each month after our 10:45 a.m. Sunday service.
Just save the dates and meet up with East Woods friends at our chosen restaurant.
The next gathering will be September.
Dates to be announced.
Order your Scrip Cards
on September 3rd.
Annual Church Rummage Sale
Aug 25 - 8 to 4 pm
Aug 26 - 9 to noon
HUGE ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE THIS WEEKEND!
Our Annual Rummage Sale is this weekend! We have received many quality items. Please come and check out what we have.
A few things to consider:
And don't forget the baked pies, cakes and cookies! Get there early, everything goes fast.
We take VISA and MC in addition to cash and checks.
Further questions: Call or email Peggy Konzek at 360-903-2168 or geopegkon@comcast.net.
"Movie and Game Night" for the Entire Family
Friday, August 18th from 8 to midnight
Get the family and put this night on your calendar. We will start with family friendly games until the sun goes down. Then we will go to the backyard of the church, put our blankets and chairs out on the lawn and watch "Secret Lives of Pets" projected on the church wall. If you need more information, please contact Jeff Kennedy or Cathy Roeper.
Family Movie Night
Join us on the last of the summer Family Movie Night on our east lawn.
August18 - Secret Life of Pets
Ladies Dessert Social
August 6 at 7 pm
Join the ladies of East Woods for a "dessert" social the evening of August 6th. This is an ideal time to invite a friend. Who doesn't like dessert?
Snack Drive for Children's Center
Share a snack with someone who needs one!
Join us and Epikos Church's Individually Wrapped Snack Drive for the Children's Center in Vancouver. Let's see how many times we can fill the snack donation box between now and the end of August for children overcoming mental health challenges!
Bring your snacks to our box in the Church Narthex.
Any questions, reach out to Cathy Roeper at cathyroeper@gmail.com.
Bridgetown "Night Strike"
August 3, 7:00 - 9:30 pm
East Woods Presbyterian Church is soliciting volunteers to join us for a mission opportunity to participate in the BridgeTown Ministries, Night Strike.
We have selected Thursday, August 3rd as our night to attend together. It is a unique opportunity for people to spend time under the Burnside Bridge every Thursday night to love people because people matter. It is an opportunity for members of Portland’s homeless community to hang out, enjoy a hot meal, receive a free haircut or shave, have their feet washed and have their old shoes/clothes/sleeping bags replaced.
There are 225 positions available any Thursday night. Some of the popular positions fill quickly. If you are interested in joining us for a Night Strike night under the Burnside Bridge then either reach out to me, Gwen Wagner, (gwendolynwagner@gmail.com) with your first, second and third choice or go to this link and register yourself.
Either way, let Gwen know if you want to join us so we can plan the proper number of cars for this trip. The sooner you register for a job, the more likely you will get what you want to do. Please register for Aug 3rd if you wish to join the EWPC group. But feel free to go any Thursday and be a part of this special ministry.
https://signup.com/client/invitation/6775657374/1853575/false#!1853575/false/false (Select August 3rd)
Mission Work
Mission is important to the members of East Woods. We offer mission focused activities and education during out Connecting Time each Sunday. This is the schedule of events coming up during this time.
July 29 - Heritage Farm
Believe
A Study in Core Beliefs of Being a Christian
During 2017 East Woods Presbyterian will journey as a whole church, from the little ones to the most seasoned members, to believe the core truths of the Bible and to become more like Jesus every day.
We will embark on a holistic study called “BELIEVE”. Grounded in Scripture, BELIEVE is a unique discipleship experience that helps Christians of all ages become more like Jesus in their beliefs, actions, and character. This topical, abridge Bible illuminates the core beliefs of the Christian faith to help you think, act, and be more like Christ.
Over 30 weeks we will dive into BELIEVE and unpack 30 big ideas of the Bible. Everyone in the church will be touched by this study. Children and Family Ministries, Youth Ministries, Adult Ministries, Connecting Time and our sermons will emphasize the lesson for each week.
Our syllabus of study includes:
10 Key Beliefs of the Christian Faith to “Think Like Jesus”
The first ten chapters of Believe detail the core Beliefs of the Christian life. Together they answer the question, “What do I believe?”
10 Key Practices of a Jesus-follower to “Act Like Jesus”
The second ten chapters discuss the core Practices of the Christian life. Together they answer the question, “What should I do?”
10 Key Virtues of a Person Who is Becoming More Like Jesus to “Be Like Jesus”
The final ten chapters contain the core Virtues of the Christian life. Together they answer the question, “Who am I becoming?” This is an exciting opportunity for East Woods. We will grow together in belief, practice and virtue.
"Who Am I Becoming?"
And we finish in July with:
July 16 - Faithfulness
July 23 - Gentleness
July 30 - Humility
Life Line Screening
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Life Line Screening, a leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings will be in our community on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at East Woods Presbyterian Church.
Ultrasound screenings to Identify risk factors for Cardiovascular disease include; Carotid Artery (plaque buildup-a leading cause of stroke), Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (an enlargement or weak area in the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body), Peripheral Arterial Disease (hardening of the arteries in the legs), a Heart Rhythm Screening (an EKG to detect Atrial Fibrillation-irregular heartbeat) and an Osteoporosis Risk Assessment for men and women.
Being proactive about your health by knowing your risks helps you and your doctor address problems early.
Package 1
Plaque, Vascular Disease and Heart Rhythm Package - 4 tests for only $139.
Package 2
Add an Osteoporosis Screening for $10 more - 5 tests for only $149.
All for a $181 savings!
Preregister is required. Go online TODAY at
www.lifelinescreening.com/communitycircle or call 1-888-653-6450 and receive your “Community Circle” $10 discount and your Preferred Appointment!
Ash Wednesday Service
March 1, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
East Woods will provide a Shrove Tuesday Dinner and Ash Wednesday Service on March 1 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Use this service as a way to prepare yourself for lent and leading up to Jesus' trip to Jerusalem, to the cross and to the resurrection.
A special message from Lieutenant, CHC, USNR Bill Sperry (or as we know him, Pastor Bill) from his bunk at the Navy Chaplaincy Basic Training in South Carolina.
Women's Retreat
February 24-26, Lincoln City, Oregon
There is nothing like a weekend at the beach with your girlfriends. Well, we have one of those weekends planned for you.
The weekend of February 24-26 we will meet in Lincoln City to spend this time together exploring key life moments and how Christ has played a role in this. We will also share meals, walks on the beach, personal stories and get to know each other better as women of faith.
For more information contact Gwen Wagner at communications@eastwoodspres.org.
It will be an amazing weekend to be with girlfriends!
Valentine's Day Fundraiser
Valentine’s Day Flower Bouquets
Order by Sunday January 29
Pickup Sunday February 12 from 9:30-12:00 pm
$25 each bouquet
Top-quality, farm fresh flowers will be shipped direct just in time for Valentine’s Day delivery. Each bouquet contains 12 long stemmed (50 cm) roses in your choice of red or white with 4 silver dollar eucalyptus stems.
Note: We must receive at least 15 orders for each color in order to fulfill the orders. We will notify you if this happens. The vase is not included.
Order the next two Sundays at the church or take this order form and send to this link at Peggy McNees.
Please order by January 29th.
10:00 A.M.
OUR SUMMER SERVICE SCHEDULE
Please join us for our Summer Schedule for Service.
We meet at 10:00 a.m. from June 26 - August 28.
Family Movie Night
Summer in the Park
Our first Summer in the Park Night on the East Woods back lawn is back by popular demand. All of the movie begins at dusk around 9 pm.
Bring a chair or a blanket and join the fun.
Our Movie Repertoire:
July 1 "Finding Nemo"
July 15 “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”
July 29 “The Emperor's New Groove”
August 5 “Zootopia”
August 19 “Frozen”
Annual Family Camp
September 2-5
Get this on your calendar for Labor Day Weekend.
For the 2016 Family Camp Weekend, East Woods will join forces with First Presbyterian Church and their annual camp out.
The camp will take place Labor Day Weekend, Friday, Sept. 2 to Monday, Sept. 5 at Fort Stevens State Park near Astoria.
The cost is $75 a family for the weekend.
Annual Rummage Sale
Friday and Saturday, August 26-27
THE ANNUAL EAST WOODS RUMMAGE SALE is August 26-27.
Sign-up sheets for helping with set-up, working during the Sale and contributing to the Bake Sale are in Evergreen Hall (Narthex).
Donations may be brought to the church beginning Sunday, August 21.
Remember that old electronics do not sell well, and be selective about clothing donations.
For more information, contact Peggy Konzek, 903-2168.
