Mission: To mobilize women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ

To the Women of Hope

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

     So . . . . maybe the summer is over, and winter draws nearer, but with less "outside" time, I find more "inside" time. That’s reading time, handwork time, and how about some letter writing to some of our friends and relatives. Those of us who are BC (before computers) and BT (before telephones) can remember the joy of receiving an envelope in the mail from relatives or friends. Let’s renew that joy and uphold the spirit of some of our dear ones with a real letter in an envelope.

     Once again we welcome new members to Hope Lutheran. Be assured, new members, that you are welcome at any or all Circle meetings. They are announced in the bulletins. Our church does not "assign" membership in a specific circle. Just check out the times and locations and, if possible, give the hostess or circle leader a call. You are needed and wanted!

     On October 3 a few Women of Hope attended the Living Waters Conference Fall Gathering at Zion Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids. There was a lot of good music, a particularly inspiring communion service by their "Pastor Lynn," and the customary business meeting. The treasurer’s report indicates that our H.O.W.A. Center received $1,204 from the spring meeting for our Kinship program. If you have not attended a spring or fall meeting, do so at your next opportunity!

     Pat Leek asks that we express thanks and appreciation to Beulah for the big box of gourds for use in decorating the fellowship hall tables. Thank you Beulah, and thank you, Pat and Sherry, for your ongoing dedication in keeping our tables "in season."

     I am remiss in not expressing appreciation last month to Joan for her leadership in setting up our houseboat trips in August. Thank you, Joan! The "houseboat file" contains a number of annual reports from Joan for future reference.

     News or "no news" – Discussions are underway as to whether we should have an Advent event such as were held in the 1980's. No, not the scissors, glue, glitter type – these events were pretty much musical with guests invited, followed by coffee and dessert. Look for more information when decisions have been made, and if you read this before the November 5 board meeting, let the board know your thoughts.

Following the October board meeting, under the direction of Dianna, a hundred school kits were assembled for shipment to Lutheran World Relief. Thank you, Dianna and all who assisted.

    The quilters have already been busy for a month, under the direction of co-chairs Marge, Lois and Lillian. Thank you to all who participate.  Anyone is welcome to join the quilters on Thursday mornings in the Fellowship Hall.

     It will soon be time for our annual food basket project. Last year baskets for about 50 families were put together and delivered, some with blankets included. Co-chairs Punk, Ann, Sandra and Jane will be needing assistance, both financial and hands-on. Pitch in if you can! Thank you to all.

     The Lydia Circle is scheduled to clean the kitchen in November, followed by the Men’s Club in December.

A Thankful Thanksgiving Season to all.

God’s Blessings and Best Wishes,