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THE KING’S BANNER Christ the King Lutheran Church, Houston, Texas 2353 Rice Blvd, Volume 74, Number 4 Houston TX 77005 April, 2020 ctkelc.org

Virtual Easter Egg Hunt- Share Your The Three Days Prizes & Family Fun! Easter Sunday, April 12 - Saturday, April 18 Easter Day Online Have we got some "eggciting" news! On Easter Sunday, we will launch a virtual egg hunt through Picture! ctkelc.org our website: ctkelc.org. There, our younger virtu- We Can Celebrate Together al egg hunters will search for colorful eggs linked if Separate in Easter in An- to fun videos and activities for the whole family other Fun Way. Share Your April 8 Easter Day Picture! 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Meditation to enjoy. After counting the number of eggs you find, fill out the Egg Hunt Survey and you will be Take some selfies or “other- entered into a drawing for Easter prizes. The virtual ies” on this Easter Sunday April 9 Maundy Thursday egg hunt will be available online from April 12-18. (after 11:00 a.m. online 6:00 p.m. Worship Luther League members will also enjoy some fun church). Then share them on Confession and Absolution giveaways with Deacon Ben with a special gath- our Facebook Page (www. Stripping of the ering on Easter Sunday. For more information, facebook.com/ctkelc). Let’s please contact Deacon Ben Remmert. crowd the page with love!

April 10 6:00 p.m. Service of the Word Banner Banter Passion Reading Our version of Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Bidding Prayers Adoration of the Postcards from a pandemic April 11 Holy Saturday every three What are our fellow members and friends up to? hours starting at Midnight Rite See page 9 for the Home after sunset

Resources for April 12 Easter Sunday Daily Devotion, 11:00 a.m. Worship: Contemplation, and Holy Communion Easter Egg Hunts (online) Meditation Christ the King’s Community of Hope lay chaplains have assembled some favorite resources to help you “rest” in God; to lift spirits, nourish minds, deepen prayer life, and inspire service. See page 14

Christ the King Lutheran Church 1 Dear Members and Friends of real when online. The Word spoken by the preacher in the Christ the King, sermon and said and sung over the sign of bread and wine by the presider is as real as any other time in history and place. Yes, in this I mean the God’s promises are not negated by our assembling “differ- above greeting to be ambiguous ently,” though “online communion” is never to be preferred in the most positive way. You to our being physically present to one another. We state and I are members and friends of instead that online communion is the gracious exception that Christ the King. You know who I proves the rule. So, we will celebrate Holy Communion on mean. The Word of God become Easter with the Words of Institution said on one end of the flesh whom humankind mur- “circuit” and your having on hand bread and wine on your dered, whom God raised from end. Think of it this way: the people of God from CTK will be the dead, who now rules the acting as Lay Eucharistic Ministers to one another on Easter universe from the throne of love. Sunday morning as part of our worship separately together. It is as important as has ever been Pastor Duane's This will strike many as unusual. It is. We prefer to be togeth- in all history that in this very un- er. But the people of God need nurture for the journey, and usual Holy Week we remember World we believe this is God’s will too. Some will disagree. Bishops that yes, Christ is our Lord, our across the ELCA agree and disagree. Likewise theologians way of life, our friend, who on that Day of Resurrection de- and clergy, and clergy who are theologians. Our congrega- livered on his promise that he will be and is with us always. tion council leadership affirms our plans. All the ministry And as he rules always and will be where he promises to be, staff is fully on board. Our own synod bishop respects our on this Easter Sunday we will take at his word, albeit decision without needing to agree or disagree. He asks for we will do so in a manner unlike how we have before as a respect between people of differing opinions. I myself have congregation worshipping together apart “online.” Our wor- written and published in favor of this emergency measure. I ship will be one in which we are Lay Eucharistic Ministers to believe it is consonant with Lutheran theology one another if even “virtually.” brought into the 21st century. We believe that the “holy You know that when we’ve gathered “normally” for Sunday things” of God are indeed intended for the spiritual health worship, we are centered on the Word and Sacrament. Holy of the people of God. We see that all of us together will be Communion is regularly celebrated in our Sabbath gathering served best by our so celebrating separately together; again, because it is Christ’s gift of his strong and gracious self to not as a new normal, but as Easter nourishment until we can strengthen us for our faith journey. We celebrate it regularly be together actively again. If you’d care to read a compact because we need the objective material “otherness” of God’s version of my highly technical theological argument, it is ac- gift so that we are not left to our own subjectivity, our own cessible at https://www.facebook.com/148422778541917/ illusions about “our ways” as we move into the next days of posts/3082192768498222/?d=n care however we are called and whatever the circumstances. In this Corona-defined meantime, Holy Week will be “dif- Against our wishes, however, we have been forced away from ferent.” We’re told that it will be a week of the worst of the each other and have not been able safely to share in The virus. But it will be a week of redemption. We enter the Pas- Lord’s Supper. Even though the “and” of Word and Sacrament sion and Resurrection story with resolve and vulnerability, is conjunctive, which means inseverable, this Sacrament has because we know that Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and then been severed from the Word for a while. Then again, we’ve the tomb means something for us and all humanity that been church “differently” for a while, and it looks like this we cannot comprehend. Yet he comes with “healing on his will have to continue differently long into May. wings.” As the philosopher Walter Benjamin wrote, “Rather than pass the time, one must invite it in.” All of us on your ministry team, with the affirmation of church council leaders, believe that God wants us to have We invite him in in many, even new, ways. However we in- food for this journey, at least, as it were, at an oasis or two. vite, he comes with surprise and with our new future. A new Like doctors with the Hippocratic Oath, we commit to doing time is coming. It is coming as with quiet feet in a garden. As no harm. In this Healing Place, that includes not withholding with showing up in unregulated ways. As with in your midst medicine that gives spiritual health. Early in , first wherever you are. As Easter should and will be. The new and said this way by Ignatius of Antioch, Holy Communion was surpassingly better normal. also called “the medicine of immortality.” We believe also Love, that the community of Christ the King Lutheran Church is Pastor Duane A Healing Place 2 The King’s Banner Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston Mission Interfaith Ministries (IM) brings people of diverse faith traditions together for dialogue, Offering collaboration and service, as a demonstration A Healing Place of our shared beliefs.

It envisions a community of faith working and acting together in response to the Divine call to create a more just, compassionate, and caring society. Christ the King Church is a covenant Interfaith Ministries member of IM’s Interfaith Circle. IM’s Core Beliefs are: Meals on Wheels • Interfaith Ministries promotes a community where faith is vital for our life together. Meals on Wheels • People of faith are accountable for building a provides home-delivered meals to disabled adults and homebound clients just and compassionate community. over 60. This nutritional support helps people stay independent and in • There is value in working together in the their own homes. They serve more than 4,000 seniors a hot meal each community. day. For every $5 you give, IM is able to provide one homebound senior IM works with 10 communities of faith, including with a home delivered meal. The program also delivers weekend meals Baha'i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, and a week’s worth of breakfast to over 1,100 of our most frail and iso- Muslim, Sikh, Unitarian Universalist and Zoroas- lated clients. trian. Together they provide the foundation upon which IM builds collaborative partnerships to How You Can Help serve seniors and refugees. Their programs advo- During The Covid 19 Outbreak And Beyond cate for the needs and rights of at-risk and special We still have evolving needs as the COVID 19 outbreak unfolds in the needs children, enhance the independence and Greater Houston area. Meals on Wheels is altering its delivery methods dignity of low-income seniors, and improve the to ensure the safety of our seniors- delivering a week’s worth of frozen quality of life for refugees. meals at a time to reduce contact, while phoning each senior regularly to check on them and provide social support. This has added costs to our Collaboration among people of different faiths program, as well. Your donations are particularly appreciated during this strengthens what IM accomplishes and bridges challenging time. You may put a check in the mail to Christ the King Church misunderstandings among people of diverse with Meals on Wheels in the memo, or you may contribute at ctkelc.org, beliefs. IM serves individuals in a ten-county, Make a Donation (on the left side of our home page). greater Houston area with the help of over 2,000 Please note Meals on Wheels in “other.” volunteers.

A Season of Hope: Building Personal Care Kits for People Around the World We are hoping to make 100 kits (each We have suspended our collection of Personal kit has 1 towel, 2 bars of soap, 1 tooth- Care Kit items for now, but we will resume when brush, 1 comb, and 1 nail clippers). we are once again able to assemble. We know Here is our count so far: that many of you have purchased items and are • 51 Bars of Soap (Need 49 more) just waiting to drop them off. Not to worry! LWR • 72 Bath towels (Need 29 more) will still need them. Just hold on to them and we • 52 Toothbrushes (Need 48 more) will let you know when you can drop them off. • 26 Combs (Need 74 more) lwr.org/personalcarekits • 12 Nail Clippers (Need 88 more)

Christ the King Lutheran Church 3 The Three Days in 2020 Canonical Hours in the Home and via Zoom Our celebration of Holy Week and The Three Days has taken a The Canonical Hours mark the course of Holy Saturday, different shape because the Coronavirus Pandemic precludes every three hours. This year they are prayed in the com- assembling together for worship in our nave. Nonetheless we fort of worshipers homes. All are invited to participate. will celebrate the Great Mystery of Easter throughout these Canonical Hours are short prayer times consisting of three holiest days of the year, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday readings, a psalm and prayer. A hymn is appointed to and Easter Sunday with worship services recorded in the nave each prayer hour which can be read or sung as desired. and broadcast on Facebook and YouTube. We observe the quiet- The text for the Canonical Hours will be made available ness of Holy Saturday with the Canonical Hours (see separate to the congregation by email and on the ctkelc.org article with instructions). The Vigil of Easter will have to wait homepage. The Canonical Hours commence Saturday at until we celebrate it with even greater joy and vigor next year. midnight, 12:00 a.m. and end at 6 p.m. before sunset. A Rite for the Home on the of Easter Sunday will be made Those who like to pray with the church community available to all members and friends near and far on our various may join Ben Remmert via Zoom for each of the seven platforms. On Easter Sunday we gather for festive music and the prayer times: 12 a.m., 3 a.m., 6 a.m., 9 a.m., 12 p.m., proclamation of the again via Facebook and YouTube. 3 p.m., 6 p.m.. We invite you to join together deeply bonded in faith and hope The Easter Vigil will not be held this year, yet we will in the celebration of these Three Days to receive all anew God’s send an Easter Vigil Rite for the Home to all that can be gift of love and eternal presence with us and all creation. prayed any time after sunset on Saturday.

Singing Separately Together! Friday Morning Bible Study Online One of the most amazing aspects of our worship in this internet Fridays at 10:15 a.m. (no study on Good Friday) time is the amazing gift of song separately together. So many All are invited to Friday Morning Bible Study online for have noted that they sing along, and our choirs also sing the Bible Study and prayer beginning at 10:15 a.m., and we motets remotely together. But I’m convinced God hears us as finish approximately 11:40 a.m. We read the texts as- one. What a marvelous gift! signed for the Sunday liturgy and prepare ourselves for My thanks also go to our music staff who faithfully sing for us the encounter with the living Lord who promises to be all. Bless you, Vicki, Mary Joy, Calvin and Jorge! with us in word and sacrament. No need to pre-register, simply join us! If you do expect to participate, please let Cheryl Gaspard Sunday Forum know at [email protected], and she will send you the scrip- Sundays at 10:00 a.m. ture lessons and the meeting ID to Zoom ahead of time. Christ the King Young Adults Online Meet Again Online on Zoom, April 19, 7:00 p.m. We’re still in physical distancing mode, but that doesn’t Beginning April 19, 10:00-10:50 a.m. stop us from enjoying a quarantini and chatting it up During the weeks after Easter Sunday Forum gives oppor- online. As an extra bit of fun, let’s see who can setup the tunity for all to brush up on our “Lutheran Basics!” Maybe winning virtual background. you have wondered about what is distinctively (or peculiarly) Pass the word. Invite friends. We’ll be eager to see how Lutheran about Christ the King Church. All of us “seasoned” each other is doing and what our very current digital the- and maybe “newer” Lutherans will enjoy this Sunday morn- ology questions are. The link and password will be sent ing series at 10 a.m. before online worship to learn how our the week ahead. Contact Pr. Duane for more information. tradition is different from other Christian traditions or even how we here differ from other Lutheran traditions. Summer Book Reviews The class will be an introduction to ’s life, the The summer book reviews are a beloved tradition as an ed- origin of the Lutheran movement, ’s central ucational offering on Sundays during the summer months. Theology of the Cross, Lutheran worship and preaching, All interested in presenting a book on a Sunday morning Lutheran music and hymnody, Lutheran ethics, and Christ at 9:45 a.m. during the summer are invited to contact the King Church’s own expression of Lutheranism. Beverly at [email protected] with title, author, and Check out our weekly Thursday evening emails for Sunday your Sunday availability. We particularly welcome books Forum details. that explore religious, moral, or ethical concerns within society and the world. 4 The King’s Banner Write a Devotion for our 75th Anniversary 2020 is going to be a year for the record books! Who could’ve imagined that our 75th an- niversary year was going to be so eventful, not just for us as a community, but for the entire world? Who could’ve imagined that our congregation’s goal to be “a healing place” would be so relevant? And who could’ve imagined that staying at home would actually be a work of healing. Even as we are “together, while apart,” our identity as a congregation is stronger than ever. During this unique moment during our 75th anniversary year, we invite our mem- bers to a time of reflection. IF you feel moved to write a devotional for our 75th anniversary devotional book, please let Beverly know at [email protected]. We will include 75 daily devotions written by our members in a special volume to be distributed in September as a run-up to our annual anniversary Festival in November. See below two lovely examples of devotionals from our 60th and 65th anniversary devotional books.

From 2005 Devotional Book From 2010 Devotional Book Celebrating Our 60th Anniversary Celebrating Our 65th Anniversary by Peggy Johnson by Rochelle Manske Give ear to my words, O Lord; consider my meditation. Hearken We are God’s work of art, created in Christ Jesus to to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I make my prayer live as from the beginning he had meant us to live it. to you In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; early in the ~Ephesians 2:10 morning I make my appeal and watch for you. Psalm 5:1-3 One of my strongest memories from childhood is the very These are some of the familiar words of the liturgy said each clear image of standing in the center aisle of our neighbor- weekday morning at Christ the King Church. They are the hood . I was alone as I stood there looking to our prayers for members of our church, friends and at the large crucifix. I remember being overwhelmed by relatives. Sometimes we personally know their names, but the thought of Jesus suffering. The thought that came to most of them we do not know. We don’t know their circum- me and has come back many times over the years is, “How stances -or why their names are on the prayer list - but God could anyone love me enough to do that for me?” My knows their deepest needs. child’s mind, at 7 years old, had determined that receiving love was based on “good” behavior and I knew how often We pray for EVERY name - that they will be healed in body, I was not “good”. mind, and spirit, refreshed, restored, forgiven, encouraged, whatever their special need. We pray for the hungry and poor Over the years, through study, prayer and everyday living, everywhere, the lonely, those who will marry, newborn babies I have revisited the overwhelming sense of awe at the love and parents, those who have died, those who grieve, for peace of God for us his creation. It still sends me back to that little in the world, for care givers, for students and teachers, for girl standing there in wonder and gratitude that this indeed pastors and missionaries. could be true. There are names which have been remembered for weeks and One of my favorite authors, Anthony DeMello, a Jesuit months. We come to feel they are people whom we know. and spiritual director, talks about how profound the Once I met a man at church who told me his name and said he impact is if we as individuals ever get in touch with even a was in town for his routing check-up at M. D. Anderson Cancer glimpse of how deeply we are loved by God. The Ephesians Center. I recognized his name immediately. I told him we had verse in my Jerusalem Bible speaks of us as God’s work of been praying for him by name each day for many months. He art. That helps me get in touch with how intensely personal was surprised to know this and visibly touched. There is power and involved God, as creator, is in this work of art, creation. and comfort knowing you have been prayed for - by name. Anyone who has used his or her creative side knows how totally absorbed one can be in whatever the focus of that To offer prayers for others -known and unknown - is a privilege energy is. I feel God is still at work in us continually firing, and a blessing. shaping, challenging and loving us. Lord, thank You for hearing our prayers. Make us always mind- No wonder my favorite hymn is What Wondrous Love Is ful of the needs of others. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen. This O’ My Soul!!

Christ the King Lutheran Church 5 Confirmation Classes Online: Sundays at 10:00 a.m. Youth in confirmation class will be meeting online through Zoom to con- tinue our conversations on the Small Catechism. We will gather together for sharing of highs/lows, a lesson, and a blessing to end our time together. For information, contact Ben Remmert, Deacon For more questions, please contact Deacon Ben Remmert. Director of Youth and Family Ministry, [email protected] or 281-468-4686. Luther League Meetings Online: Sundays at 5:00 p.m. April Dates: Youth are invited for a time online for conversation, prayer, and fellowship 1: Luther League D&D Meeting, 5:00 p.m. with each other until we can physically gather. We will have at home scav- enger hunts, watching parties, and brainstorming new ideas of fellowship. 5: Confirmation Class, 10:00 a.m. Peru Trip Meeting, 12:30 p.m. For more questions, please contact Deacon Ben Remmert. Luther League Meeting, 5:00 p.m. 8: Luther League D&D Meeting, 5:00 p.m. Luther League D&D Meetings: Wednesdays at 5:00 p.m. 9: Maundy Thursday Youth are invited to join the Deacon for an adventure online through Dun- geons and Dragons. The first meeting on Wednesday, March 25 will be going 10: Good Friday Mini Lock- In, 9:00 p.m. 12: over the rules and questions. The following meetings will be adventuring Easter Sunday together. THIS MEETING DOES HAVE A PASSWORD! For more questions, 15: Luther League D&D Meeting, 5:00 p.m. please contact Deacon Ben Remmert. 19: Confirmation Class, 10:00 a.m. Luther League Meeting, 5:00 p.m. Good Friday Online Mini Lock-In 22: Luther League D&D Meeting, 5:00 p.m. 26: April 10, 9:00 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Luther League Meeting, 5:00 p.m. All youth 6th through 12th grade are invited to the Good Friday Mini Lock-in on April 10 starting at 9:00 p.m. During the night we will enjoy fellowship, Camp Hope Day Camp doing some distance service projects, and lead the canonical hour at 12 June 8-12 a.m. Please contact Deacon Ben Remmert for more questions. Camp Hope is a day camp minis- try where youth will be leading a day of camp here at church from 7:3Online0 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. where children (ages 5 to 11) will learn bible stories through worship, games, snacks, science experiments, drama, and crafts throughout the day. For almost 30 years, Camp Hope has provided new curriculum and training to congregations throughout the United States. The vision for Camp Hope is to be the best strategy for con- gregations to develop young Christian leaders doing justice, who serve God as servants in their neighborhood and in the world. Location: Christ the King Lutheran Church Dates: Each day during the week, Monday, June 8 through Friday, June 12 at 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. (before and after camp op- tions available) Who Can Attend: Those that have finished pre-K through 6th Grade by May 2020 Costs: $100.00 (Before Camp- $25.00 & After Camp- $25.00) Confirmation Students came together at the Zion Retreat Center for a 24 hour retreat Make sure to register online for early bird on Confession and Forgiveness. The youth had a blast making s’mores, cleaning the discounts. If you have questions, please beach, playing a few rounds of putt-putt, and learning together. 6contact The King’s Deacon Banner Ben Remmert. Lutherhill Summer Camp July 12-17 Those that have completed 1st-5th grade will spend Plan for Summer a whole week at Lutherhill discovering all of the joys Lutherhill Elementary Camp and Beach Camp camp has to offer with Deacon Ben Remmert! Alpha Campers (1st Graders) are at camp from July 12-15 and Lutherhill Beach Camp July 19-24 Youngns (2nd-3rd Graders) and Yearlings (4th-6th Grad- Those that have completed 6th-8th grade can experience a week ers) are at camp from July 12-17. Enjoy fun bible studies, at Lutherhill as a confirmation group with Deacon Ben Remmert at camp-wide worships, afternoon activities and daily All Zion Retreat Center in Galveston Island! Campers will experience Camp activities. Spend an evening around the campfire the love of Christ both inside and outside the walls of Zion by tak- making s’mores. Cost breakdowns are below. Sign up and ing advantage of the beach and surrounding attractions by dive register at lutherhill.org. Group code is: ctkelchouston. into Bible studies, enjoy worships on the Gulf of Mexico, cook for Alpha (1st Grade) Program Cost: one another, experience service opportunities in the surrounding Paid in Full by May 15- $325 communities, explore the island of Galveston, and grow in com- Paid in Full after May 15- $340 munity with fellow junior high students. Cost breakdown is below. Sign up and register at lutherhill.org. Group code is: ctkelchouston. Youngns (2nd-3rdGrade) and Yearlings (4th-6th Grade) Program Cost: Jr. High Beach Camp Program Cost: Paid in Full by May 15- $500 Paid in Full by May 15- $540 Paid in Full after May 15- $525 Paid in Full after May 15- $565 Faith Formation Resources during COVID-19 Pandemic: (All Free Resources) Prayers for When you Feel Anxious Coloring Sheets, from Illustrated Ministry https://illustratedmin.s3.amazonaws.com/freebies/WhenYouFeelAnxious.pdf?ck_sub- scriber_id=592401830 Free Resource from Illustrated Ministry with three coloring page prayer to help in times when you feel anxious. Through the words, images, shapes, and opportunities to color and reflect, we hope you will find peace and calm during this time. Pandemic Hope Devotional: A Family Devotional for Life during Crisis, Faith Inkubators https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5de696ac1c21154b4df98e32/t/5e750054da6 ac14b0f855f81/1584726104254/pandemic_hope_devotional.pdf Eight weeks of devotional readings and activities prepared for families to do with those you are isolated alongide. Using the Faith5 model (Share highs and lows, Read a bible verse of story, Talk about how the Bible reading might related to your highs and lows, Prayer for one another’s highs and lows, and Bless one another), families are able to have conversations to help each other not be people of ear, but of hope. Coronavirus Conversations Milestone Moment, Milestone Ministry https://vfmmilestonesministry.files.wordpress.com/2020/03/coronavirus-conversa tions-milestone-moment.pdf The Coronavirus Conversations Milestone Moment provides an opportunity for families and friends to discuss and talk about the pandemic and to recognize God’s presence. This Milestone Moment uses a simple structure that includes naming, equipping, blessing, gifting, and reinforcing so that the Milestone Moment has a greater chance to take deeper root and nurture lifelong faith formation. Holy Week at Home Written by Rev. Janelle Hooper, Program Director for Ministry with Children https://www.ministrylinks.online/uploads/1/2/4/3/124396707/holy_week_ home_2020.pdf Intergenerational resource that walks through the nine stories of Holy Week through storytelling and activities that engage the five senses. Christ the King Lutheran Church 7 houston Saturday Take the U.S. Census food May 16 https://my2020census.gov bank 8:00 a.m. - noon The 2020 Census questionnaire will take For information, contact [email protected] about 10 minutes to complete. It’s safe, secure, and confidential. Your information and privacy are protected. Your response matters.

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Sandy and Bill Fenner’s son Will Fenner (Middle School English Volunteers Needed teacher in Oregon, active church member and bible study teacher, UH graduate, and Marine veteran) shares his blog at Donations and volunteers are greatly needed at The https://willfenner.wordpress.com/ Houston Food Bank which is considered an “essen- tial” service. We hope to volunteer on our regularly Check out Robin Morgan at www.robinmorgan.net/blog/ scheduled day, May 16. Email Justin at ctkhfb@gmail. comfort-zone for some helpful tips. com for more information about the status of our vol- Visit Houstonian, therapist, author, Palmer Episcopal member, unteer outing, or visit the HFB at www.houstonfood- Brene Brown at https://brenebrown.com/blog. bank.org and register to volunteer on your own time. Our own member Philip Feldwisch invites us to visit his blog at https://philipfeldwisch.blogspot.com

Blues Easter Funnies! Knock, Knock! What is the Brews & Who’s there? Easter Bunny’s favorite Arthur. kind of music? Real News Arthur Who? Hip Hop Understandably, “Blues, Brews and Real News” is Arthur anymore Easter canceled again for April. eggs to decorate? What is the Easter Bunny’s favorite Pray and hope that we can have a big bang up restaurant? blues and brews fest on May 22, 7:00 p.m. We’ll Knock, Knock! IHop catch up with a birthday celebration, and celebrate Who’s there? Rabbi Oren Hayon’s new book about keeping holy Police. law (or not). Police Who? Why was the Easter Bunny Police hurry up and so sad? Dr. Scott Solomon’s April session on Human Future find all the eggs. She was having a bad hare day. and Evolution will be rescheduled for June or Sep- tember. Watch for the update. What do you call an Home Schooling Update Easter egg from outer space? from one of our parents: An eggstraterrestial. Warning: Unfortunately, during times My child just said, “I hope I of crisis there are always scammers operating. don’t have the same teacher If you get an email from any church staff What do you call next year.” member requesting money, please ignore it. a very tired Easter egg? Eggshuasted! “Staying at home” has turned from Naomi Nelson In fact, if you get any requests for personal information from anyone at this time, please us all into our dogs. We roam 3. Book: Devotions: The Selected beware. We want our members and friends to the house all day looking for Poems of Mary Oliver Why shouldn’t stay safe in every way. food. We are told “no” if we This collection of poems from you tell an Easter egg a joke? get too close to strangers. And Mary Oliver provides the reader Be Careful! It May Be A Scam Because it might crack up. we get really excited about car with an invaluable collection of 8 The King’s Banner rides. her passionate, perceptive, and treasured observations of the natural world (from book jacket). Oliver, Mary (Penguin Random House Press, 2017 $30) Mike and Joyce Banner Banter Bradshaw Our version of Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Postcards from a pandemic Before we had to stay What are our fellow members and friends up to? home, we went to Brazos Bend State Park and en- Nancy and John Boles Terri Bourne joyed these great horned owlets. We Guess who stopped by today? Not bad for a miss everyone! first attempt at sewing a Jill Bailer face mask! As with many others in the office and in the congre- gation, I have We kept our 6 foot distance, but it was been learn- so good to see our son Matt and fam- Kristine Wallace ing new tech- I regularly sing hymns on my morning, ily in person visiting from out of town. nology. All 45-minute walk, but I sing them now University of Janica made some delicious chicken with even more feeling and their mean- Houston classes are now being taught vegetable soup and wanted to share. ing comes through even more clearly. online, so I have been learning to use She dropped it off on the porch and I begin with “Jesus Shall Reign” and Zoom for my class sessions. A very told us with our new Ring doorbell that conclude with “Abide With Me”, and in handy application. it was there and got back away from between definitely include “A Mighty the door before we could come to it. Fortress” and “Rock of Ages”. What a wonderful surprise! Nancy and Charlie Graml Christina and Kirby Lesher have been exploring vacation options during this time. Rodney Koenig The Leshers has been busy sharing jokes with have been friends and family. learning how to home- A Little Church Humor school and from the April 2020 Reader’s Digest run a law of- In the foyer of a church a young fice from boy was looking at a plaque with home! the names of men and women We have also who had died in various wars. been swim- He asked the pastor, ming, biking “Who are these people?” and putting The pastor said together a “Those are the members from puzzle. our church who died in service.” We miss our The boy asked, CTK family “The early service or the late and hope ev- service?” eryone is do- ing well! Christ the King Lutheran Church 9 Chuck Alexander The Goodrows Rachel Zoch built a practice bench and a vertical Falling into the Spring has garden. This bench is a preview of “at risk” cate- sprung in Zach’s plan for our Columbarium gar- gory, I am my gar- den as his Eagle Scout project. sticking close den! LOTS to home. I of mon- have set for arch myself the task (stripes) and Gulf fritillary (orange) of photo- caterpillars, as well as adult monarchs, graphing the fritillaries (small orange) and swallow- yard around our house, as spring works tails (large black). its magic on all things living. It puts me in touch with beauty I usually take only Fun fact: a passing notice of. Very satisfying. Monarch caterpillars The Remmerts poop green. John and Ellen Newcaster Lots of walks in the local park, discov- (I suspect are run- ering new disc golf courses, backyard they all do, ning with play, and snuggles with dad and mom. since all the dal- they eat is matians leaves, but I’ve only seen the evidence daily. under the monarch host plants.)

Judy and Bert Hungerford Anneliese and Asher Williams, Lest we for- children of Tate get the sim- and Katherine ple plea- Williams, have sures! (pic- been getting Léa Godret-Miertschin ture taken of in lots of horse grand- Rice student, time! We miss daughter remained in everyone and Natasha Houston in pray everyone with ice the Mier- is staying cream cone stachin’s healthy and just before the shutdown.) Treasured apartment to safe. time...with son Brian, Shital, Natasha continue on- swimming, cooking,playing games...so line classes. thankful son-in-law Larry home from She’s also Carolyn Phillips Morocco on Royal Morocco’s last US creating ori- helped install flight before shutdown...daily bike gami treasures, like this 2 color collaps- a new trellis rides. Exceptional TV shows...two-part ible star. in the raised Jack London documentary, movie “Two bed garden ,” fascinating character study. at Brazos Ben Towers with Diane and Michael Cannon New movie ”The Call of the Wild” Online her neighbor are spending CTK services get an A+! Reading: Louise Ken who is a their time at Penny series, introduced by Naomi member of their place in Nelson; Escapist reading...”American Faith Luther- Santa Fe. It Dirt,” “The Enigma Cube”(time travel an, making it snowed a lit- but not sci-fi), “Thief River Falls,” real an all-Lutheran project. Now we just tle bit and MN town, unusual plot twist. Deep... have to wait for the passion flower vine rained the “Smithsonian“magazine! Spirits up, to get passionate! day before everyone; stay healthy! Every sunrise they took brings us one day closer to the end of 10 The King’s Banner this photo. this siege!! Stephen Wentland Emily and Leslie Winesett Linda Murry lives in Extended Care spent one During my at Clarewood House afternoon bucket-list Senior Community. creating stay- trip to Egypt Clarewood House is in at-home and Jordan in lockdown, just a pre- sidewalk Feb/March, I caution. But I am con- chalk art. :) visited the fined to my room, and Baptismal site to inject some variety of Jesus at in my thinking, I wrote the following. It Bethany on is a takeoff on “MTA” sung the Kingston the Jordan Trio. Find it on YouTube. and saw two white doves after our group read out “M.T.A.”, is a 1949 song where the lyr- Elizabeth and Tor Kragas ics tell an absurd tale of a man trapped loud the verses of Matthew 3:1-17. Now Elizabeth is on Boston’s subway system (MTA). A that I’m safely back at home, I’m also very staying busy version of the song became a 1959 hit glad that we have tools like Zoom, Skype in the yard by The Kingston Trio. and WhatsApp to stay in visual contact and with her with one another, and to still be con- Effects of Lockdown wonderful nected, across the miles while we all Adapted from “MTA” by the Kingston Trio sourdough practice safe “social distancing”. I grate- Let me tell you a story ‘bout a man bread baking! fully celebrated three family events called Stephen during our March quarantine time, all via Who had two kids and spouse. Had a Zoom electronic means, including the 1st birth- He gathered his books, packed up rehearsal with another music group. day of my grandson Roberts. his computer, It’s so great to meet up with people, Went to live in Clarewood House. even from a distance. Chorus Tor is walking and cooking on the grill. Gary and Gretchen Miertschin Did he ever get out, We loved online worship, but are so Gretchen No, he’ll never got out, ready to get back to CTK. We’re hang- cleaned the And his fate is still unlearned ing in there! deck so thor- He will wheel around the halls of oughly she Clarewood got down to He’s the man who’ll never return. Flora Roeder scrubbing the Chorus I have been working on another family joints of the Stephen left his room to check history based on notes, documents, railing with a his mail and old photos I’ve gathered over a toothbrush— Met a guard with an awful frown. period of about years 40 years on my wearing her AirPods so she could listen “Hey, Stupid, go back to your room Prussian-born grandmother (now Pol- to an Audible book. Don’t you know you’re in lockdown. ish) and her brother and his family, The Miertschin family had a virtual both of whom left Posen (now Poznan) Chorus brunch on Zoom with people in Houston, in about 1888. My grandmother lived Now all day long Stephen sits at Austin, Albuquerque, and Los Angeles. It in Texas the rest of her life; her brother his computer was a real shot in the arm for all of us. moved to Wyandotte (Wayne County), And doodles with his pen. Several of us held up photos or phone pics Michigan in 1900 after being wiped out Taps on the keyboard with his finger of Jonathan Miertschin, stationed at Air by the Galveston Hurricane. Force base in NJ but who was currently in And watches CNN. It’s amazing how much I remember field training and couldn’t join us. Chorus from my childhood about things she Citizens of Houston. All of our talked about. I also became heir of troubles letters from her brother’s family and of Are caused by a strand of DNA photos of his family. In looking things Fight this bugger, get a bottle of up on the Internet about the area, I bleach found a fantastic U-tube offering a lot And help Stephen wipe his trou- of great facts about the area. I’m get- bles away. ting a Polish-German education just from looking at this stuf. Christ the King Lutheran Church 11 Cheryl Pfennig Pastor Intern Sergio Rodriguez Sabina Entzian Nathan and Wendy Wiker I had a COV- Here’s how our pastoral intern has We have set Our thanks go to Nathan and Wendy ID-19 scare been sheltering in place: up office in Wiker for coordinating a successful personally 1.Leading the our dining Drive Thru Food Drive for Christian that turned Sunday Fo- room and Community Service Center on March out to be rum in open work online 28, and to all the generous people who only a flu vi- air while ex- on our school contributed items. rus. While I plaining the assignments. was quaran- use of prayer Nicholas’ and Maya’s school didn’t miss tined recov- beads. a beat and immediately set up zoom ering from my illness, I brought home meetings for every class with plenty of my new golden retriever puppy Barley 2.He is sharp- online assignments. My college classes Hops Pfennig who has brought more ening his gar- for OT are being transferred to online joy and laughs at exactly the right time. dening skills and will begin on April 13. We are set- As I’ve recovered and returned to work, by tending tling into a nice routine. I have joyed the ad hoc COVID 19 team to dozens of Nicholas even has his viola lessons via at work at MD Anderson where we seedlings. zoom, and Maya sings with her voice screen, triage and disposition our pa- Maybe the teacher via skype. Hurray for technology!! tients who present to us with known exposures and symptoms. It has been will help the an empowering opportunity to help plants to Harold and Peggy Mathis and give peace in this unsure time. I’m grow. welcomed working with an incredible team and (from afar) truly appreciative patients. their grand- daughter Sharon Ostwald Asha on Picture me in March 30. the lounge Asha was chair in my la- Lisa Krueger born at a hos- nai on this I’m knitting pital in the beautiful last my first pair heart of Manhattan. Their son Kris took day in March! It of adult care of big brother Pierce since neither dad is a wonderful socks. They nor brother was allowed in the hospital time to read, are toe-up- during the birth. The family is now safely communicate two-at-a- staying on Long Island with mom’s parents. with friends on the computer, and time on circu- work on my genealogy. lar needles. I’m trying them on for length. I’ll start the heel when they hit Linda Kuisk and George Schuech Looks like everyone it getting “zoom Karli McGowen my ankle. Knitting calms me. Trish Chap- have been printing out the service bul- proficient.” Joen Larson and Allie Like many of our teachers, Karli Mc- man, Cindy Scruggs, Linda Marx and I letins to follow the broadcast on YouTube Kiefer and I did a Zoom visit so we Gowen is making good use of on-line are part of a Monday night knitting and sing all the hymns. George snapped could chat and get a good look at dar- instruction. group. the photo--no selfies here! Thank you to ling little Henry. all involved in bringing us these opportuni- Our group meeting on Zoom. We call ties to worship. our selves the Knit Knerds.

In isolation. In church--at home--with the cat. Not the new normal. 12 The King’s Banner Nathan and Wendy Wiker Scott Swanson The Eberharts Our thanks go to Nathan and Wendy The Supervisory Staff (the furry ones) Praying for pets in co-lockdown. Wiker for coordinating a successful at the Gardens on Phil Street report When you really want to go back to Drive Thru Food Drive for Christian they have everything under control. work, but you’re not the only one mak- Community Service Center on March I have been at my office every day, with ing the decision! 28, and to all the generous people who staff coming in on a rotating schedule. contributed items. My partner’s wife is on chemotherapy, so I do not want him to take any chanc- es by coming into the office. I have been doing advisory work for 46 years and love my job. I look forward to Monday mornings. The “garden supervisory” job is only on weekends.

Lockdown, week 2 Cat: oh, cut it out now!

Harold and Peggy Mathis welcomed (from afar) their grand- daughter Asha on The Longoria family March 30. misses seeing everyone in person at Asha was CTK! We have been spending our time born at a hos- in quarantine planting a vegetable pital in the garden, taking our dogs on walks at Social Distancing heart of Manhattan. Their son Kris took the park across the street, exercising, before it was cool! care of big brother Pierce since neither dad and homeschooling via the family Note members enjoying Trish Chap- nor brother was allowed in the hospital room television and other available man’s Line Dancing sociable back in during the birth. The family is now safely media around the house. Johnny has January. staying on Long Island with mom’s parents. been able work the majority of his investigations from our home office. Martina has been able to participate Linda Kuisk and George Schuech in most Court hearings via Zoom, but have been printing out the service bul- occasionally has to venture down to letins to follow the broadcast on YouTube the Criminal courthouse, armed with and sing all the hymns. George snapped a mask, gloves, and wipes of course! the photo--no selfies here! Thank you to Blessings to everyone during Holy all involved in bringing us these opportuni- Week!” ties to worship.

In isolation. In church--at home--with the cat. Not the new normal. Christ the King Lutheran Church 13

Resources for Daily Devotion, Contemplation, and Meditation Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:4-8 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) We hear it often as the sending blessing at the end of Sunday rests totally on God’s love and abiding presence. With this in worship: “The peace of God, which surpasses all understand- mind, Christ the King’s Community of Hope lay chaplains have ing, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” assembled some favorite resources to help you “rest” in God; to lift spirits, nourish minds, deepen prayer life, and inspire Peace. Beautiful in concept, but not easily felt or accom- service. They offer some “excellent things to think about” while plished. However, God’s peace, that peace which surpasses our sheltering at home, and will hopefully help you strengthen human understanding, is independent of circumstances and your own daily spiritual practice well beyond the current crisis.

World Community Ronald Rolheiser The Writer’s Almanac for Christian Meditation https://ronrohlheiser.com/extras https://GarrisonKeillor.com www.wccm.org Devotional and other resources for sup- Fun and inspirational readings by one of A global and inclusive contemplative fam- porting daily spiritual life. our favorite Lutheran radio personalities, ily with roots lying in the desert tradition Garrison Keillor. Sojourners https://sojo.net of early Christianity dating back to the Made up of of different tradi- LEAD (Living Everyday as Disciples) 4th century. tions who are discovering the intersection https://waytolead.org/portfolio-item/ Contemplative Outreach of faith, politics, and culture. Receive daily spiritual-practices www.contemplativeoutreach.org a short verse, justice quote, and prayer. Spiritual practices for daily life. A spiritual network committed to living the Upper Room www.upperroom.org Spirituality and Practice contemplative dimension of the Gospel. Offers daily devotional: New Every Morn- www.spiritualityandpractice.com/prac- Center for Contemplation and Action ing tices https://cac.org Introduces spiritual practices to cope with Unfolding Light www.unfoldinglight.net Led by Fr. Richard Rohr, CAC opens the fear and uncertainty and to sustain hope, etc. door for spiritual seekers to experience Daily reflection by Pr. Steve Garnaas- www.calm.com the transformative wisdom of the Chris- Holmes rooted in a contemplative, Calm On-line subscription or as an app, Calm tian contemplative tradition. Creation-centered, justice-oriented spirituality. Reflections are usually on the promotes what its name implies. Monastery of the Heart Lectionary readings. www.monasteriesoftheheart.org (on-line or free app) A community of individuals from all walks Pray as You Go Mental Health Resources of life anchored in monastic spirituality https://pray-as-you-go.org The American Psychological Association and prepared for modern life. Sr. Joan Daily prayer session (10-13 minutes) that website offers great research, informa- Chittister invites all to become “monastics combines music, scripture, prayer and tion, coping suggestions, and a list of of the heart.” questions for Ignatian reflection, pro- duced by Jesuit Media. other excellent mental health resources. The Daily Text Check out the links below. www.moravian.org/the-daily-texts ChristianArt Today https://www.apa.org/practice/pro Free email subscription brings a brief www.christianart.today grams/dmhi/research-information/ daily scripture reading and prayer from Presents a daily gospel reading accompa- social-distancing the Moravian tradition. nied by a relevant work of art. https://www.apa.org/practice/pro Henri Nouwen Society Network for Grateful Living grams/dmhi/research-information/pa https://henrinouwen.org http://Gratefulness.org Fosters the spirituality of solitude, com- Daily quote focusing on gratitude. ndemics munity, and compassion embodied in the Taizè Community www.taize.fr Texas Health and Human Services life and teaching Henri Nouwen. For those missing our Saturday evening COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line Plough Publishing House contemplative worship, check out the You may speak toll-free 24/7 with a https://www.plough.com/en/subscrip- weekly podcast from the Taizè community mental health professional for help tions/daily-prayer in France. You can also access meditations dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, Offers free daily prayer. and Taizè chants as well. grief or worry. Call 833-986-1919. 14 The King’s Banner A Poem from Unfolding LIght Steve Garnaas-Holmes March 13, 2020 In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body —1 Corinthians 12.13 Our social distancing is an illusion. We are one. There is no distance. No gap. Isolated in your apartment, you belong. Self-care in a Time of Pandemic Life is different now. Life will be different as we forward You breathe and it fills my lungs. You weep and my heart is through this pandemic. As we come out of it into a new broken. We are one body in many places. normal we will all need physical, mental and emotional In this time of separation we open our hearts, we allow healing. That healing process begins now with good ourselves to flow out from our bodies in Spirit to one self-care. another, to the strangers who are part of us. Self-care also equips and strengths us to care for others. Like the Italians singing from their balconies with neigh- • Healthy diet bors, we are all notes of the same song. • Balance of rest and exercise • Attention to spiritual practices that work for you Love flows where germs cannot. Meditate on our amaz- • Obtain information from reputable sources like the ing unity. Extend your spirit to include all it includes: the World Health Organization and Center for Disease whole world. Control Breathe in this breath (so threatened!), a gift. Breathe out • Take breaks from the 24 hour news cycle this breath (so released!), a gift. Let compassion for all be- • Stay connected to the CTK community through, phone ings flow with it, calls, emails, texts and links to worship and other of- ferings in and out, refreshing your whole body, the Body of Christ, • Take a look at the Banner Banter in this issue for ways the whole human family, the whole Creation. Let love be that people are coping and utilizing their time our body. Let your love take flesh. Make calls. Write letters. And There are an abundance of online opportunities for new when you come back out don't stop being one another's experiences and restful moments: body. It's your life. • Tour the Guggenheim Museum www.unfoldinglight.net www.guggenheim.org • Enjoy the Monterey Bay Aquarium www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gHKDHmgVlU • Binge watch a favorite show on Netflix Mind-Body Skills Online | For a deeper level of support: Groups and Workshops • The Institute for Spirituality and Health here in An Initiative of the Greater Houston Healing Collaborative Houston for support group information and ac- You may be... cess to a yoga on April 11 • a healthcare professional on www.spiritualityandhealth.org the front lines. • The Hope and Healing Center also in Houston • a parent or educator adjust- https://hopeandhealingcenter.org ing to class cancellations. • Mental Health America • feeling the pressure of job https://mhanational.org/covid19 insecurity or financial hard- In closing I offer this prayer I adapted from the Prayer ship. to St. Jude • feeling the difficult effects of social isolation. Most holy God, I place myself in your care at this difficult Wherever you are, we recognize that this pandemic is disori- time. Help me know that I do not face my troubles alone. enting and stressful. The Greater Houston Healing Collabora- Walk with me in my need with consolation in my sorrow, tive is offering a range of virtual support groups and workshops courage in my fear and healing in the midst of suffering. specially designed to increase resilience and promote well- Fill me with your grace and strengthen my faith in your being during this unprecedented time. Take a step towards healing powers. Thank you for the promise of hope you self-care, and join us from anywhere in the world. hold out to all who believe and inspire me to give this https://www.spiritualityandhealth.org/mindbodygroups gift of hope to others as it has been given to me. Amen

Christ the King Lutheran Church 15 Justice Advocacy Opportunity – Advocate with the ELCA

AMMPARO ministry was busy in Febru- COVID-19 & Justice ary with volunteering at the Northwest While a global pandemic is not in and of itself a justice issue, the novel Corona- Community Health Fair on February 15. virus pandemic has highlighted the immense inequality in U.S. society, as well We had nine volunteers, including Re- as global inequities. The U.S. is the only western industrialized country without becca Shields, Donna Olson-Salas, universal health care and paid sick leave. Eighty per cent of us have inadequate Christian & Emily Triantaphyllis, Carolyn savings for financial emergencies. More than 27 million Americans have no health Jacobs, Karen Patel and two friends and insurance and forty percent of us are hourly workers without any type of employ- one colleague! The fair was a great suc- ment benefits. At a global scale, the poorest countries will be disproportionately cess with attendee numbers reaching impacted by COVID-19, taking a toll not only on health and their economies, but well past 400! Our volunteers helped on education, human rights, and basic food security & nutrition. with legal services, language transla- tion, escorting attendees to sessions, Yet in the midst of this crisis, the United States, while and helping at various tables. More fairs passing emergency funding to bolster local, state and are being organized and our AMMPARO federal governments’ public health response to the ministry hopes you will join us for the virus, has not disbursed humanitarian funds to Gaza & next one once matters around Covid-19 the West Bank as legislated by Congress and has opted become stable. Immigration attorneys to suspend humanitarian aid to Yemen, currently the and bilingual speakers are always location of the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Over needed. 100 COVID-19 cases have already been diagnosed in the West Bank, and the World Health Organization is warning of an “explosion” of And the People cases in Yemen. To urge the administration to provide humanitarian assistance to Palestine, go to www.elca.org/advocacy, click on “Take Action Now” & then Stayed Home by Kitty O’Meara “Peace Not Walls – March”. We last advocated for humanitarian funding for And the people stayed home. And Palestine in December 2019. Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen’s civil war begin- read books, and listened, and rest- ning in 2015, deliberately targeting civilian populations and infrastructure using ed, and exercised, and made art, billions of dollars’ worth of weapons sold to them by the U.S. While we advo- and played games, and grew gar- cated against U.S. arms sales to Saudi Arabia in April 2016, we did not prevail. To dens full of fresh food, and learned urge the administration to aid Yemen, go to https://secure3.oxfamamerica.org/ new ways of being, and were still. page/s/yemen-aid?. And listened more deeply. Some Congress is already discussing the possibility of additional emergency funding for meditated, some prayed, some the U.S. Any additional funding should especially consider the elderly & those in danced. Some met their shadows. fragile health, first-line health care workers, the poor, people in low-wealth com- And the people began to think dif- munities & workers in the gig economy, the unhoused, immigrants in detention ferently. centers, people who are incarcerated, and indigenous communities in isolated And the people healed. And, in areas. Funding should be provided for testing and treatment, food and nutri- the absence of people living in ig- tion programs, housing assistance & shelter system expansion, care & medical norant, dangerous, mindless, and services for detainees, public health access at entry points for migrants & global heartless ways, the earth began health systems. To urge the administration to advance global health systems, go to heal. to www.elca.org/advocacy, click on “Take Action Now” & then “Urge Congress to enhance global health security”. Other justice issues of concern include vot- And when the danger passed, and ing & the census. the people joined together again, they grieved their losses, and made The Justice Advocacy Ministry team is routinely posting requests for justice ad- new choices, and dreamed new im- vocacy to CTK’s Facebook, and one is included each week in the weekly e-mail. ages, and created new ways to live We encourage you to engage on the multitude of justice issues presented by and heal the earth fully, as they had COVID-19 at this time and going forward. been healed.

16 The King’s Banner COVID & Care for Creation While it may, at first glance, seem that a global pandemic like COVID-19 has no relationship with care for creation, that would be a grave misunderstand- ing. COVID-19 is believed to be a zoonotic illness, a disease transferred from animals to humans. Scientists have long warned that continuing loss of wildlife habitat and biodiversity globally would lead to an increase in such zoonotic illnesses. Indeed, the world has seen the emergence of West Nile virus, Lyme disease, Lassa fever, bird flu, Zika, SARS, MERS, and multiple outbreaks of Ebola in the past 20 years, just to mention a small number of such illnesses. So, our lack of care for creation is making us sick, and in some cases, killing us. If there is one thing that we have learned from Coronavirus, it is that we can change our lifestyles when pressed to do so. Our present ecological crisis calls for a similar response. The drivers of biodiversity loss are: Habitat loss, Invasive species, Pollution, Population growth, Overharvesting, and April 1 – April 30 - online Climate change (HIPPO-C). To take action in your life, stay informed on these The CTK Creation Care Team invites you to topics by reading reputable science journalism, such as The Guardian, a celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day U.K. newspaper with no paywall for its online version. Vote for candidates by participating in the Earth Month EcoChal- who prioritize care for creation. Plant native plants in your yard. Reduce/ lenge. This online event challenges us to grow eliminate use of pesticides, herbicides, and toxic cleaning products. Reduce in stewardship of God’s good creation. Select consumption of meat, particularly beef and lamb. Ensure that products a challenge in one or more of: resilience, fresh you buy come from sustainable sources. Minimize care use, opting instead water, wildlife, food, people, forests, oceans, for car-pooling, public transit, bicycling or walking. Reduce air travel, or and climate. Join the Lutherans Restoring Cre- use carbon offsets offered by airlines to offset the pollution generated by ation – Gulf Coast team & we’ll support each your flight. Get a hybrid or electric vehicle. Conserve electricity & water. other along the journey. To sign up or to learn Switch to electricity from renewable resources. Contribute your charitable more, go to https://earthday.ecochallenge. monies to organizations that educate & empower women (which has been org/. Questions? – Contact Lisa Brenskelle demonstrated to drastically reduce birth rates) and to organizations that work to reduce pollution and conserve/restore habitat. Pray for creation. Sunday Evening Conversations on To get started looking at ways you can change your life, join the Lutherans Creation Continue… Restoring Creation – Gulf Coast team for the Earth Day EcoChallenge, run- The CTK Creation Care Team invites you to ning online throughout the month of April. Investigate the impact you can a monthly environmental education web have on resilience, fresh water, wildlife, food, people, forests, oceans, and/ meeting series whose theme in 2020 is the or climate. Join the team at: https://earthday.ecochallenge.org/ and we’ll wonders of nature. undertake this journey together. The Wonders of Coastal Wetlands Sunday, April 19, at 6 p.m., online And, don’t forget to enjoy God’s good creation. Check out these 14 ways Professor Steven Pennings, University of Houston to experience nature for 14 days of quarantine at this site: www.creation- Historically, wetlands were considered useless justice.org/blog. land, and we filled them in to make farmland Socially/Environmentally Responsible Investing and housing. Today, we realize that wetlands provide numerous valuable services to hu- for Houses of Worship & Their Members manity, and we seek to protect and restore Sunday, May 3, 2:00 p.m., online them. Coastal wetlands are threatened by The Interfaith Environmental Network of Houston invites people of all faiths a number of factors, but can be remarkably to consider living their values through the investments they make. As indi- resilient to moderate rates of sea level rise. viduals and houses of worship move forward in stewarding their finances, at This talk will review some of the benefits we some point, it brings them to the crossroads of sustainable investing. They derive from coastal wetlands, discuss the ask, “What is it? How can I access it?” It’s exciting to note that people all threats facing them, and explain why we around the globe have taken the call to action to include sustainable invest- have reason to expect that wetlands will sur- ing in their portfolios in an effort to align values with financial decisions. You vive despite ongoing global change. Join this will learn about sustainable investing, its history, and steps on how you can conversation with Professor Steven Pennings begin connecting your faith with finances. Join Chandel Strickland & Kellan of the University of Houston as we wonder Caldwell, financial associates with Thrivent Financial, a not-for-profit insur- at coastal wetlands! Please register for this ance & financial services company, to learn about this important topic for talk on www.eventbrite.com. Contact Lisa people of faith. Please register to receive an invitation to the web meeting. Brenskelle with any questions. For more information, please contact Lisa Brenskelle at [email protected]. Christ the King Lutheran Church 17 unday Everyday is Sunday is S Cliff Helmcamp, Christ the King Church member, March 2020 As I sit here gazing at my computer screen I see this veryday beautiful gray sphere with countless pinkish floret-like antennae and scattered with E tiny, golden orbs. Perhaps it's a glorious, ethereal dandelion just waiting to be blown into the wind currents and spread across the globe.

Oh, how beauty can be deceiving. Indeed, I am staring at the deadly Covid-19 Coronavirus magnified a zillion times that has traumatized the world in such a seeming short period of time and spread like that dandelion. The sting of death is everywhere as the toll mounts and the number of new infections con- tinue to climb.

While I do not know anyone infected or even know of anyone who knows anyone infected, I still feel that it is lurking just around the corner. New words have been added to the lexicon - shelter in place, test kits, hand sanitizer, masks, ventilators, self-quarantine, doomsurfing, Zoom, and many more.

Though just in the first two weeks with no end in sight people seem to be dazed by the prospect of isolation and lack of connectedness. What day is it?

As a Christian my mind wanders to the Holy Scriptures. Are we in the End Times? Certainly we have seen the signs proph- esied - famine, wars and, of course, this pestilence. Still we are told no one knows when that day will come. As a believer I am assured of my salvation and that is comforting. Alexa, unprompted, seems to just start playing I'm But a Stranger Here, Nearer My God to Thee and When the Roll is Called Up Yonder. She must know something. Is it Wednesday?

Our routines have been stolen. What am I supposed to do next? Perhaps I will finish the best-selling novel Educated, that I had set aside a couple of months agoand just hope that it has a happier ending than the last chapter I read. I will google that Japanese super star organizer Marie Kondo and see if she can help me. At my age I am not supposed to leave the house. While I feel 35, the calendar demands that I add another 40 years and, though with underlying health issues, I feel fine. My children and grand kids, rightfully, I guess, will not visit. I don't even want to think about jockeying for a position in the ventilator line when there is a 25 year old needing one as well. A certain politician thinks I should just give it up if I contract the virus and die so that Capitalism might be saved and the 25 year oldgets the ventilator. One of my children , jokingly, I hope-said that I should just "take one for the team." It must be Tuesday.

So you see the need for levity in these times. The cartoonists, social media junkies and joke writers are having a hay day and certainly help us to divert our minds if even for a fleeting moment. One New Yorker cartoon shows a beleaguered man in a loin cloth hiding behind the sole palm tree on the tiny, deserted island as a massive cruise ship passes nearby. Then there was the video circling the globe of a man being given two choices: A. To be confined at home for a month with wife and four kids. Before even getting to B. he says "B.B.B.B."Recently, as I drove to an intersection a panhandler wearing surgical gloves and holding a lopsided, corrugated sign with "USMC Vet on one side and "I sanitize" on the other while holding a bottle of Purell. Any day now I expect there will be twins born named Corona and Covid. It must be Thursday.

While there seems to be no end in sight I would like to dream of a sudden cure, a vaccine to end it all. It would be followed by ticker ­tape parades, photos reminiscent of a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square at the end of WWII. The government would ban social distancing and require Monday hand shaking and hugging - where appropriate of course. The economy will rebound and the unemployment rate will once again approach zero. Tuesday Is it Monday? ednesday In the meantime I will go about my daily lack of routine avoiding dandelions, W humming Nearer My God to Thee and praying that all will soon be well. hursday Hey, it 's Friday. I know that because my weekly pill container says so. T ’s Friday ey, it 18 The King’s Banner H The Other Side of the Virus, An Opportunity to Awaken... Yes there is panic buying. Yes there is sickness. Yes there is even death. But, They say that in Wuhan after so many years of noise You can hear the birds again. They say that after just a few weeks of quiet The sky is no longer thick with fumes But blue and grey and clear. They say that in the streets of Assisi People are singing to each other across the empty squares, keeping their windows open so that those who are alone may hear the sounds of family around them. Prayer for Us They say that a hotel in the West of Ireland is offering free meals and delivery to the housebound. Nadia Bolz-Weber, March 29, 2020 Today a young woman I know For the layers of comfort and convenience is busy spreading fliers with her number that surrounded our lives and that we never through the neighborhood considered a blessing but always just took for so that the elders may have someone to call on. granted, forgive us. Today Churches, Synagogues, Mosques and Temples are preparing to welcome For we who must grieve in isolation and not in and shelter the homeless, the sick, the weary. community, comfort us. All over the world people are slowing down and reflecting. For we who care for the sick, protect us. All over the world people are looking at their neighbors in a new way. All over the world people are waking up to a new reality For the ability to turn off the fear-mongering To how big we really are. and unhelpful commentary and worst-case To how little control we really have. scenario click bait, strengthen us. To what really matters. To Love. For the times when we are all out of creative So we pray and we remember that ideas for how to get through this with cooped Yes there is fear. up kids, inspire us. But there does not have to be hate. Yes there is isolation. For we who are now cutting our own bangs at But there does not have to be loneliness. home, guide us. Yes there is panic buying. For the grace to allow ourselves and others to But there does not have to be meanness. just be less productive, shower us. Yes there is sickness. But there does not have to be disease of the soul For the generosity needed from those of us Yes there is even death. who have more resources, empower us. But there can always be a rebirth of love. Wake to the choices you make as to how to live now. From our own selfish inclinations, deliver us. Today, breathe. For just being your children, none of whom Listen, behind the factory noises of your panic- have done a global pandemic before, love us. The birds are singing again The sky is clearing, For the days ahead, accompany us. Spring is coming, And we are always encompassed by Love. God unbound by time, help us to know that Open the windows of your soul you are already present in the future we are And though you may not be able fearing. to touch across the empty square, AMEN. Sing. - Written by Fr. Richard Hendrick, OFM, March 13th 2020 Christ the King Lutheran Church 19