We’re not a large congregation, but we have big ideas and so having enough resources is critical. Whether you are active in this church or not, we welcome your support in whatever form you choose. Maintaining our physical plant and property takes considerable effort, both in time and money. Just imagine the resources it takes to minister to “all people to mature daily in their gift of faith”!
We can use and we appreciate all gifts of time, talent and treasure. If you can donate your time and talent to help with a one-time task or an ongoing committee, choir or church council, we want to know. And, if you wish to make a cash donation, please make your check out to “First Evangelical Lutheran Church”; if your gift is designated for a particular use (such as our “Rain Campaign” to repair our roof), indicate as much on the memo line. Either mail it to the church office at “First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1401 Twelfth Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601″ or place in the offering plate. Or, you can easily donate online. We also accept tithes and other contributions electronically. To set this up, please call the church office at (814) 942-3816.
Memorials & Honorariums
There are many opportunities through which friends, family and others can be memorialized or honored, from “sponsoring” a Sunday bulletin, communion elements or newsletter to larger, one-time special gifts. Give the church office a call if you have questions at (814) 942-3816.
Christmas and Easter flowers beautify our church and are meaningful tributes. Look for reservation forms before these holidays or call Deborah Thomas at (814) 944-3986. For bouquet tributes throughout the year, look for the calendar in the nave or call Deborah.
Gifts of Faith
We all are proud of our Gothic architecture, the profusion of priceless stained glass windows, our baby grand Steinway piano and our amazing Aeolian organ. We all enjoy our commercial-grade kitchen and spacious social hall complete with stage and the more intimate facilities of the “all-purpose” room and church lounge. We offer an outdoor play park, classrooms, air conditioning, an elevator and more. But, all of these amenities mean very little if we cannot maintain them, not only for those within our midst, but also for those outside our walls who hunger for acceptance, peace and wholeness.
We need, encourage and welcome your financial commitments. Please help!
Time And Talent
Whether you can give of your time and share your talent regularly or prefer one shot, short-term projects, we can use your help.
There are many needs to be met in fulfilling just the basic demands of congregational life, from worship, to administration to outreach.
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild, under the outstanding leadership of Lisa Flinn, prepares our worship space with the furnishings, appointments, vessels, elements, linens and paraments used in the liturgy. The Altar Guild is organized such that small groups of three members each are scheduled to perform these duties four to five times a year.
Worship Assistants, Acolytes, Crucifers, Book Bearers, Lectors And Ushers/Greeters
Liturgical assistants actively assist the minister during worship services. Lectors read the scripture lessons. Acolytes light and extinguish the candles. Crucifers carry the cross and lead all processions. Anyone who is interested in these important roles is encouraged to volunteer. Click here to visit Net Ministries to hear the pronunciation of Biblical words.
Choir
First Evangelical Lutheran Church has long cherished its sacred music program and has made a significant commitment to its central role in worship. Martin Luther argued that “in the cultivation of music at the highest levels of artistic excellence the perfect wisdom and goodness of God are displayed.”
Under Joni Whetstone’s leadership, the Temple Choir leads us in prayer, praise and attendant music. Claude Fabinyi provides beautifully professional organ and piano accompaniment. Choir members unselfishly volunteer their time and talent to support, inspire and enhance worship for all of us.
Joni invites anyone interested in joining the choir to attend Wednesday evening choir rehearsal. The choir is on hiatus during the summer.
The Children’s Choir is enthusiastically directed by Deborah Thomas and Sondra Thompson. All children are invited to be a part of this joyful ministry.
