PARISH EVENTS
Community Meditation
Thursdays at 6:30pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/92437622756
From a Christian perspective, meditation is a powerful form of prayer that allows us to slow down our own minds and anxieties in order to hear how God might be speaking to us. Contemporary psychology, albeit using different words, agrees! Many studies have show meditation and other forms of regular mindfulness training can lead to lower stress, improved sleep and better focus, amongst other benefits. Join teachers like Russell McDonald or Pastor Dustin for these roughly thirty minute hybrid meditation sessions for everyone in our local community, no matter their faith background. For those who would like to join virtually, the Zoom link is https://zoom.us/j/92437622756.
Community Produce Pantry
Fridays from 4:30 - 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
Messiah Lutheran Church has taken the lead on a free produce distribution from our new Trinity Community Center, 705 Curry Road, every Friday from 4:30-6 PM. This weekly distribution will take place outside with drive-up service available. No ID, paperwork, or pre-registering required!
Thanksgiving Basket Packing with Concerned for the Hungry
Saturday, November 20th at 10:00am
Keane Elementary School
1252 Albany Street in Schenectady, NY
Join us for Thanksgiving Basket Packing with Concerned for the Hungry! This will serve as an opportunity for us to explore one of the greatest Lutheran convictions: “that all of life in Jesus Christ – every act of service, in every daily calling, in every corner of life – flows freely from a living, daring confidence in God’s grace.” We had a great time packing food baskets before the pandemic and are SO, SO happy to be able to do it again! Please use the side entrance off of the parking lot, since the front doors will be locked. If you have any questions or would like to participate, please speak with Community Service Chair Pete Jones.
Fall 2021 Sunday Forum: "The Gospel and the Native American Religious Experience: Colonialism, Resistance and Liberation"
Sundays at 8:45am
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81599070672
Having explored “colonialism” as the experience of Palestinians in our Adult Ed course, “Peace Not Walls: Justice in Palestine and Israel,” this past spring, those involved proposed to next explore "colonialism" in relation to indigenous people in North America. René Dunda-Martin in our congregation, who has lived experience and considerable wisdom related to this topic, recommended David Treuer's The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America from 1890 to the Present (Riverhead Books, 2019) as a basic text.
Children's Sunday School: "Esther"
Sunday, November 21st at 9:00am
Worship Center Nursery
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Using a new Whirl! curriculum called "All Kids," designed for kids of all ages to interact with one another and spend less time in seperate groups, we hope you and your pre-k through sixth grade children will join Ms. Cheryl Borski, Pastor Dustin and the rest of an awesome team of Sunday School Leaders for the in-person, outdoor (or masked) return of Children's Sunday School! This week will focus on Esther 2:5-18; 3:1-6; 4:1-17; 8:1-17, the story of Esther and the theme of "bravery."
Confirmation Sunday Mass for the Feast of Christ the King
Sunday, November 21st at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
RSVP for Luncheon by 11/14 at https://bit.ly/mlcconfirmation2021
Even after Israel had experienced the vagaries of kings, the people still longed for a true king to set things right. He would have the king’s title of Anointed One (Messiah); he would be the “one like a human being” (Son of Man) given dominion in Daniel’s vision. Jesus is given these titles, even though he is nothing like an earthly king. His authority comes from the truth to which he bears witness, and those who recognize the truth voluntarily listen to him. We look forward to the day he is given dominion, knowing his victory will be the nonviolent victory of love. It's on this Sunday as we prepare to move into a new church year that we'll celebrate the final total of our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign! Also, bringing back a cherished tradition at Messiah, this will also serve as the confirmation day for an incredible class of young people who have been through so much. Please come out to support them and join our festive celebration in our Fellowship Hall following worship. Jill Becker will serve as cantor while Pastor Jonathan will preach and serve as our live pianist. Pastor Dustin will preside. Our Kitchen Committee is organizing a luncheon to celebrate our young people's confirmation following worship, so please RSVP by Sunday, November 14th at https://bit.ly/mlcconfirmation2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Interfaith Thanksgiving Service
Sponsored by Schenectady Clergy Against Hate
Sunday, November 21st at 3:00pm
Schenectady Urban Farm
Fehr Avenue & Central Park Road in Schenectady, NY
Our annual Schenectady Clergy Against Hate Interfaith Thanksgiving Service is back! The service will begin at 3:00pm and will feature prayers, music and conversation amongst folks of all faith traditions that call Schenectady home. Grounded in the outdoor beauty of the Schenectady Urban Farms Initiative, this brief service will allow everyone to regather, reflect, and reconsider what it means to give thanks in the unique times we are living in. Ample street parking is available.
Community Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Monday, November 22nd at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
As a continuation of Messiah's new Arts & Culture Ministry, join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for our community drawing night using the Zentangle Method! Zentangle is a way to use drawing that helps us relax, focus, expand our imaginations, respond confidently to the unexpected and feel gratitude and appreciation for this beautiful world and all that we can do! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Fellowship Hall. All participants will need at home is a pen, a pencil, a qtip and a clean sheet of paper and for those in-person, materials will be provided for the first few sessions. If you're stressed, looking to learn a new skill or just to connect with others this summer, Zentangle is for you! If you can't join us in person, definitely join us on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/8753963537 with password StaySober.
Mass for the First Sunday in Advent: Hope
Sunday, November 28th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. As we navigate such complicated times as a community, we'll reflect on how the season's four universal themes of hope, peace, joy and love can bring us all together. Each Sunday we'll worship through a beautifully adapted version of Holden Evening Prayer, celebrate as a different Messiah family leads us in the lighting of the Advent Wreath and gather round God’s table in Holy Communion. Advent is about the “coming days.” God’s people have always lived in great expectation, but that expectation finds specific, repeated enunciation in the texts appointed for these four weeks. The ancients anticipated a “righteous Branch to spring up for David.” The Thessalonians awaited “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all the saints.” Jesus’ contemporaries hoped for the time “to stand before the Son of Man.” With them we eagerly await the coming days: another Christmas celebration, a second coming, and the advent of Christ in word and supper. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside.
Compline for the Feast of Andrew, Apostle
Tuesday, November 30th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Apostles are “sent ones.” The apostle Andrew’s story is found in today’s gospel. The apostle Paul asks additional, pertinent questions: How will the world hear of its Savior? How will they believe? How will they call on him? The answers rest with the “sent ones.” Baptism places each of us in this holy apostolic band.
Advent Compline
Wednesdays in December at 7:00pm
Worship Center Narthex
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Be sure to join Pastor Dustin for our renewed annual tradition at Messiah... mid-week Advent gatherings! Each week we'll start off by lighting the Advent wreath with a brief time of contemplative prayer. We'll then continue with time for reflection on the week's theme using our Advent devotional "Heaven and Nature Sing" from Augsburg Fortress with copies of the devotional being available the first Sunday of Advent. The service will be surrounded by Compline, an ancient chanted daily prayer for the evening. Hot mulled cider will be provided! Come and slow down in Spirit filled community for an hour during a busy time of year!
Help-Portrait Schenectady
Saturday, December 4th at 10:00am
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
RSVP to Volunteer by 11/21 at https://bit.ly/helpportrait2021
It's back! Come celebrate the season with us at the new Trinity Community Center as we provide free framed portraits for our neighbors in need along with local photographers, hair stylists and makeup artists! The festivities will also include snacks with Santa, storytelling and holiday crafts for all ages. Join the international movement with local impact and build some community with us this holiday season! We generally need around 35 volunteers to pull off this major community event with a goal of providing 100 local folks with portraits. We’re also looking for cookie bakers for our cookie decorating station at Help-Portrait. We would like sugar cut-outs without frosting. All volunteers are asked to sign-up by November 21st at https://bit.ly/helpportrait2021 or on the narthex bulletin board. All participants are simply welcome to join us!
Mass for the Second Sunday in Advent: Peace
Sunday, December 5th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. As we navigate such complicated times as a community, we'll reflect on how the season's four universal themes of hope, peace, joy and love can bring us all together. Forerunners and messengers advance the advent of our God. While John the Baptist’s voice in the wilderness may be the principal focus of the day, Malachi’s prophecy could as easily herald the coming Christ as forerunner of the Lord of hosts. Finally all the baptized are called to participate in the sharing of the gospel. In so doing we prepare the way for the coming of Jesus and assist all people in capturing a vision of the “salvation of God.” Pastor Dustin will preach and preside.
Annual Budget Meeting of the Congregation
Sunday, December 5th at 11:30am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85013836055
This year (in order to actually adopt a budget before the actual start of our fiscal year on January 1st), we're changing how we do business as a congregation! While we'll still have our regular Annual Program Meeting of the Congregation in early February to report back on everything we've done over the past year and discuss our goals for the year ahead, this year we'll begin a new pattern of meeting as a congregation the first week in December to approve our annual Parish Budget. In addition, we'll also include on the agenda the final approval to move forward with historic accessibility program in the spring of 2022! Be sure to join us in person or online dear friends for this very important meeting!
Mass for the Third Sunday in Advent: Joy
Sunday, December 12th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. Christ’s presence in our midst in the wonder of the holy supper is cause for singing. The nearness of the God in prayer, in every circumstance, is cause for rejoicing. The coming of one “more powerful” than John, even with a winnowing fork in hand, is good news—and cause for exultation—for us who are being saved. Great joy is the tone for the third Sunday of Advent. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside with live music provided by Pastor Jonathan. This will also serve as Pastor Jonathan's final Sunday with us and a festive reception in the Fellowship Hall will follow the service.
Community Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 12th at 6:30pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
A concert filled with music of the season will be held on Sunday, December 12th, 2021 at 6:30pm, featuring Rev. Jonathan Vanderbeck, Jill Becker and Kristen Olochnowicz, along with some VERY special guests! Of course, refreshments will follow. Invite all of your friends and family for a wonderful festive evening. A free will offering will be collected with the proceeds to be split between the Bread of Life Food Pantry and the Trinity Community Center. If you wish to participate in the concert, contact Jill Becker by Sunday, November 21st.
Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Monday, December 13th at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
As a continuation of Messiah's new Arts & Culture Ministry, join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for our community drawing night using the Zentangle Method! Zentangle is a way to use drawing that helps us relax, focus, expand our imaginations, respond confidently to the unexpected and feel gratitude and appreciation for this beautiful world and all that we can do! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Fellowship Hall. All participants will need at home is a pen, a pencil, a qtip and a clean sheet of paper and for those in-person, materials will be provided for the first few sessions. If you're stressed, looking to learn a new skill or just to connect with others this summer, Zentangle is for you! If you can't join us in person, definitely join us on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/8753963537 with password StaySober.
WELCA Christmas Party
Tuesday, December 14th at 6:30pm
The Fleming Estate
RSVP by 12/5 at https://bit.ly/WELCAChristmas2021
We are so excited to announce that the Women of the ELCA will one again be holding its Annual Christmas Party on Tuesday, December 14th at 6:30pm at the home of Jody Fleming (637 Settles Hill Road, Altamont). Please bring a dish to share; a $10 grab bag gift and personal care item(s) for the Battered Women's Shelter. Beverages and dessert will be provided. All women of the church are invited. Please RSVP by December 5th at https://bit.ly/WELCAChristmas2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Mass for the Fourth Sunday in Advent: Love
Sunday, December 19th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. Christ’s presence in our midst in the wonder of the holy supper is cause for singing. Cradle and cross are inextricably connected on the fourth Sunday of Advent. Between a lovely tribute to the little town of Bethlehem and Mary’s magnificent song of praise, the letter to the Hebrews reminds us in no uncertain terms that Christ’s advent is for “the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Pastor Dustin will preside and in lieu of a sermon we'll have a VERY special Christmas pageant performed by our young people (folks of all ages are required to RSVP by 11/21). A festive reception in the Fellowship Hall will follow the service.
Congregation Council Meeting
Monday, December 20th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/95835192148
Our Congregation Council meets monthly and generally the third Monday of the month at 7:00pm and is tasked with making decisions for the congregation in between Annual and Special Meetings of the Congregation. As a way of increasing transparency and making sure we are addressing all concerns, we wanted to begin publicizing our regular meetings. All are welcome to listen in except during occasional instances when we are in executive session. If you would like something to be added to the Council's agenda, simply contact President Sue Collins. Primary topics for this meeting include implementing the decisions made at our Annual Budget Meeting of the Congregation regarding our Accessibility Campaign and the Trinity Community Center. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/95835192148.
Men's Group Fifth Annual Brotastically Inclusive Christmas Party!
Tuesday, December 21st at 6:30pm
The Bode Estate
RSVP by 12/12 at https://bit.ly/brotasticchristmas2021
The Men of Messiah will once again welcome everyone to our fifth annual Brotastically Inclusive Christmas Party on Tuesday, December 21st beginning at 6:30pm, this year at the Bode Estate! Unlike that other big annual Christmas party at Messiah, everyone's welcome here! This will be a potluck gathering so be sure to bring something tasty but no peanuts please! We’ll also conduct our beloved tradition, the “Yankee Swap of Ridiculous Gifts” (under $10 please). Finally, all are invited to attempt to take the annual "Best Hat" award by wearing the silliest hat you have for this year’s contest! Two years back we believe Phil Bazicki took the prize! Please RSVP by December 12th below! Please RSVP by December 12th at https://bit.ly/brotasticchristmas2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Christmas Eve Potluck 2021
Friday, December 24th at 6:30pm
Worship Center Fellowship Hall
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
RSVP by 12/12 at https://bit.ly/mlcpotluck2021
It's back! For decades the whole community at Messiah has gathered together between Christmas Eve services to spread the holiday cheer, give thanks for the blessings of another year and celebrate Jesus’ birth. Please RSVP by December 12th at https://bit.ly/mlcpotluck2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Monday, December 27th at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
As a continuation of Messiah's new Arts & Culture Ministry, join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for our community drawing night using the Zentangle Method! Zentangle is a way to use drawing that helps us relax, focus, expand our imaginations, respond confidently to the unexpected and feel gratitude and appreciation for this beautiful world and all that we can do! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Fellowship Hall. All participants will need at home is a pen, a pencil, a qtip and a clean sheet of paper and for those in-person, materials will be provided for the first few sessions. If you're stressed, looking to learn a new skill or just to connect with others this summer, Zentangle is for you! If you can't join us in person, definitely join us on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/8753963537 with password StaySober.
Messiah Youth Night
Sunday, January 9th at 6:00pm
Messiah Worship Center
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
As a way of reconnecting our young people after so long apart, beginning this January we'll host a monthly gathering for middle and high school aged youth on the second Sunday of the month at 6:00pm. Dinner will be included free of charge. Different months will include games, activities and service projects and more. Mark your calendars now and let Pastor Dustin know if your youth is interested!
Social Action Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, January 11th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/91568452071
This is by far our most active ministry team at Messiah! Our Social Action Ministry Team is the space through which we discern all the ways we're called to serve our neighbors following the Way of Jesus Christ! We do this in a wide variety ways, through our Social Justice, Creation Care, Community Service, our work with Schenectady Community Ministries, the Bread of Life Food Pantry ministries and more! The top priorities for discussion in this upcoming meeting include plans for more fully utilizing our Trinity Community Center and planning Thanksgiving Basket Making, #HelpPortrait Schenectady, and other upcoming service events. Our ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/91568452071.
Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting
Wednesday, February 2nd at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94972251705
At Messiah many of us have somehow actually grown closer while physically apart... gosh, the Spirit is certainly at work! The purpose of the Fellowship Ministry Team is to provide opportunities for all of our members (and perspective members) of all ages to connect, hear one another's stories, and have fun! This group includes the Mighty Men of Messiah, Women of the ELCA (WELCA), Care & Concern, Young Adult Group, our Kitchen Committee, Over 55 Gang, our Welcome Committee for new and perspective members and our new Arts & Culture ministry. The team meets quarterly. In this meeting in particular we'll discuss the launch of our Stephen Ministries program, a new Small Groups ministry and other opportunities to get to know one another. If you'd prefer to attend virtually, the link for this evening meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/94972251705.
Faith Formation Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, February 8th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92199006383
Want to help guide how our congregation studies the ancient wisdom of Scripture, explores our connection God and creation and help our young people have a strong, ethical foundation? Join our Faith Formation Ministry Team! This group includes Adult Education, Children's Sunday School, Cradle Roll & Nursery, Youth and Outdoor Ministries! Help us teach folks of all ages how our faith calls us to teach that EVERYONE is created in God's image! The link for this night's meeting is:https://zoom.us/j/92199006383.
Stewardship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, March 8th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/93024204486
Our Stewardship Ministry Team is the group of committees at Messiah that allow us to support our four major program areas. Without being good stewards of our Budget & Finance, Communications, Personnel, Property & Grounds, Mission Support, Archives, Safe Church ministries and more, there's no way we could engage in all the life-changing ministries we do at Messiah. Focuses of this meeting will be reviewing the results of our capital campaign and making a final recommendation on whether or not to move forward with the project. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/93024204486.
ELCA Youth Gathering
Sunday, July 24th - Thursday, July 28th, 2022
Minneapolis, Minnesota
If your youth is anywhere from 8th to 12th grade this year, they can attend the ELCA Youth Gathering! Every three years, roughly 30,000 Lutheran youth from across the country converge for a week of learning, worship, service and fun and this summer the gathering is in Minneapolis. To find out more visit https://www.elca.org/YouthGathering. Messiah is committed to covering the majority of costs of this event, but we just need to know if your child/ youth is interested by Sunday, November 21st. So far, Grace, Sarah, Kristen Olochnowicz and Pastor Dustin have committed to attending. Messiah's youth will join their peers from nearby Our Redeemer and Good Shepherd Lutheran Churches as well!
To view our complete parish calendar, click here.
Thursdays at 6:30pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/92437622756
From a Christian perspective, meditation is a powerful form of prayer that allows us to slow down our own minds and anxieties in order to hear how God might be speaking to us. Contemporary psychology, albeit using different words, agrees! Many studies have show meditation and other forms of regular mindfulness training can lead to lower stress, improved sleep and better focus, amongst other benefits. Join teachers like Russell McDonald or Pastor Dustin for these roughly thirty minute hybrid meditation sessions for everyone in our local community, no matter their faith background. For those who would like to join virtually, the Zoom link is https://zoom.us/j/92437622756.
Community Produce Pantry
Fridays from 4:30 - 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
Messiah Lutheran Church has taken the lead on a free produce distribution from our new Trinity Community Center, 705 Curry Road, every Friday from 4:30-6 PM. This weekly distribution will take place outside with drive-up service available. No ID, paperwork, or pre-registering required!
Thanksgiving Basket Packing with Concerned for the Hungry
Saturday, November 20th at 10:00am
Keane Elementary School
1252 Albany Street in Schenectady, NY
Join us for Thanksgiving Basket Packing with Concerned for the Hungry! This will serve as an opportunity for us to explore one of the greatest Lutheran convictions: “that all of life in Jesus Christ – every act of service, in every daily calling, in every corner of life – flows freely from a living, daring confidence in God’s grace.” We had a great time packing food baskets before the pandemic and are SO, SO happy to be able to do it again! Please use the side entrance off of the parking lot, since the front doors will be locked. If you have any questions or would like to participate, please speak with Community Service Chair Pete Jones.
Fall 2021 Sunday Forum: "The Gospel and the Native American Religious Experience: Colonialism, Resistance and Liberation"
Sundays at 8:45am
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81599070672
Having explored “colonialism” as the experience of Palestinians in our Adult Ed course, “Peace Not Walls: Justice in Palestine and Israel,” this past spring, those involved proposed to next explore "colonialism" in relation to indigenous people in North America. René Dunda-Martin in our congregation, who has lived experience and considerable wisdom related to this topic, recommended David Treuer's The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America from 1890 to the Present (Riverhead Books, 2019) as a basic text.
- David Treuer, The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America from 1890 to the Present. 204-231
- George E Tinker, "Chapter 6: The Enduring Dilemma: Where Do We Go from Here?" in Missionary Conquest: The Gospel and Native American Genocide
- George E. 'Tink Tinker, Osage Nation, "Individual Salvation vs. Cosmic Balance: An American Indian Perspective," Yale Divinity School, April 17, 2018 (1:07:32)
- Dylan Walsh, "Near Total Loss of Historical Lands Leaves Indigenous Natives Vulnerable to Climate Change," Yale School of Environment, October 28, 2021
- Psalm 9: 9-10
Children's Sunday School: "Esther"
Sunday, November 21st at 9:00am
Worship Center Nursery
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Using a new Whirl! curriculum called "All Kids," designed for kids of all ages to interact with one another and spend less time in seperate groups, we hope you and your pre-k through sixth grade children will join Ms. Cheryl Borski, Pastor Dustin and the rest of an awesome team of Sunday School Leaders for the in-person, outdoor (or masked) return of Children's Sunday School! This week will focus on Esther 2:5-18; 3:1-6; 4:1-17; 8:1-17, the story of Esther and the theme of "bravery."
Confirmation Sunday Mass for the Feast of Christ the King
Sunday, November 21st at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
RSVP for Luncheon by 11/14 at https://bit.ly/mlcconfirmation2021
Even after Israel had experienced the vagaries of kings, the people still longed for a true king to set things right. He would have the king’s title of Anointed One (Messiah); he would be the “one like a human being” (Son of Man) given dominion in Daniel’s vision. Jesus is given these titles, even though he is nothing like an earthly king. His authority comes from the truth to which he bears witness, and those who recognize the truth voluntarily listen to him. We look forward to the day he is given dominion, knowing his victory will be the nonviolent victory of love. It's on this Sunday as we prepare to move into a new church year that we'll celebrate the final total of our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign! Also, bringing back a cherished tradition at Messiah, this will also serve as the confirmation day for an incredible class of young people who have been through so much. Please come out to support them and join our festive celebration in our Fellowship Hall following worship. Jill Becker will serve as cantor while Pastor Jonathan will preach and serve as our live pianist. Pastor Dustin will preside. Our Kitchen Committee is organizing a luncheon to celebrate our young people's confirmation following worship, so please RSVP by Sunday, November 14th at https://bit.ly/mlcconfirmation2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Interfaith Thanksgiving Service
Sponsored by Schenectady Clergy Against Hate
Sunday, November 21st at 3:00pm
Schenectady Urban Farm
Fehr Avenue & Central Park Road in Schenectady, NY
Our annual Schenectady Clergy Against Hate Interfaith Thanksgiving Service is back! The service will begin at 3:00pm and will feature prayers, music and conversation amongst folks of all faith traditions that call Schenectady home. Grounded in the outdoor beauty of the Schenectady Urban Farms Initiative, this brief service will allow everyone to regather, reflect, and reconsider what it means to give thanks in the unique times we are living in. Ample street parking is available.
Community Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Monday, November 22nd at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
As a continuation of Messiah's new Arts & Culture Ministry, join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for our community drawing night using the Zentangle Method! Zentangle is a way to use drawing that helps us relax, focus, expand our imaginations, respond confidently to the unexpected and feel gratitude and appreciation for this beautiful world and all that we can do! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Fellowship Hall. All participants will need at home is a pen, a pencil, a qtip and a clean sheet of paper and for those in-person, materials will be provided for the first few sessions. If you're stressed, looking to learn a new skill or just to connect with others this summer, Zentangle is for you! If you can't join us in person, definitely join us on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/8753963537 with password StaySober.
Mass for the First Sunday in Advent: Hope
Sunday, November 28th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. As we navigate such complicated times as a community, we'll reflect on how the season's four universal themes of hope, peace, joy and love can bring us all together. Each Sunday we'll worship through a beautifully adapted version of Holden Evening Prayer, celebrate as a different Messiah family leads us in the lighting of the Advent Wreath and gather round God’s table in Holy Communion. Advent is about the “coming days.” God’s people have always lived in great expectation, but that expectation finds specific, repeated enunciation in the texts appointed for these four weeks. The ancients anticipated a “righteous Branch to spring up for David.” The Thessalonians awaited “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all the saints.” Jesus’ contemporaries hoped for the time “to stand before the Son of Man.” With them we eagerly await the coming days: another Christmas celebration, a second coming, and the advent of Christ in word and supper. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside.
Compline for the Feast of Andrew, Apostle
Tuesday, November 30th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Apostles are “sent ones.” The apostle Andrew’s story is found in today’s gospel. The apostle Paul asks additional, pertinent questions: How will the world hear of its Savior? How will they believe? How will they call on him? The answers rest with the “sent ones.” Baptism places each of us in this holy apostolic band.
Advent Compline
Wednesdays in December at 7:00pm
Worship Center Narthex
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Be sure to join Pastor Dustin for our renewed annual tradition at Messiah... mid-week Advent gatherings! Each week we'll start off by lighting the Advent wreath with a brief time of contemplative prayer. We'll then continue with time for reflection on the week's theme using our Advent devotional "Heaven and Nature Sing" from Augsburg Fortress with copies of the devotional being available the first Sunday of Advent. The service will be surrounded by Compline, an ancient chanted daily prayer for the evening. Hot mulled cider will be provided! Come and slow down in Spirit filled community for an hour during a busy time of year!
Help-Portrait Schenectady
Saturday, December 4th at 10:00am
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
RSVP to Volunteer by 11/21 at https://bit.ly/helpportrait2021
It's back! Come celebrate the season with us at the new Trinity Community Center as we provide free framed portraits for our neighbors in need along with local photographers, hair stylists and makeup artists! The festivities will also include snacks with Santa, storytelling and holiday crafts for all ages. Join the international movement with local impact and build some community with us this holiday season! We generally need around 35 volunteers to pull off this major community event with a goal of providing 100 local folks with portraits. We’re also looking for cookie bakers for our cookie decorating station at Help-Portrait. We would like sugar cut-outs without frosting. All volunteers are asked to sign-up by November 21st at https://bit.ly/helpportrait2021 or on the narthex bulletin board. All participants are simply welcome to join us!
Mass for the Second Sunday in Advent: Peace
Sunday, December 5th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. As we navigate such complicated times as a community, we'll reflect on how the season's four universal themes of hope, peace, joy and love can bring us all together. Forerunners and messengers advance the advent of our God. While John the Baptist’s voice in the wilderness may be the principal focus of the day, Malachi’s prophecy could as easily herald the coming Christ as forerunner of the Lord of hosts. Finally all the baptized are called to participate in the sharing of the gospel. In so doing we prepare the way for the coming of Jesus and assist all people in capturing a vision of the “salvation of God.” Pastor Dustin will preach and preside.
Annual Budget Meeting of the Congregation
Sunday, December 5th at 11:30am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85013836055
This year (in order to actually adopt a budget before the actual start of our fiscal year on January 1st), we're changing how we do business as a congregation! While we'll still have our regular Annual Program Meeting of the Congregation in early February to report back on everything we've done over the past year and discuss our goals for the year ahead, this year we'll begin a new pattern of meeting as a congregation the first week in December to approve our annual Parish Budget. In addition, we'll also include on the agenda the final approval to move forward with historic accessibility program in the spring of 2022! Be sure to join us in person or online dear friends for this very important meeting!
Mass for the Third Sunday in Advent: Joy
Sunday, December 12th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. Christ’s presence in our midst in the wonder of the holy supper is cause for singing. The nearness of the God in prayer, in every circumstance, is cause for rejoicing. The coming of one “more powerful” than John, even with a winnowing fork in hand, is good news—and cause for exultation—for us who are being saved. Great joy is the tone for the third Sunday of Advent. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside with live music provided by Pastor Jonathan. This will also serve as Pastor Jonathan's final Sunday with us and a festive reception in the Fellowship Hall will follow the service.
Community Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 12th at 6:30pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
A concert filled with music of the season will be held on Sunday, December 12th, 2021 at 6:30pm, featuring Rev. Jonathan Vanderbeck, Jill Becker and Kristen Olochnowicz, along with some VERY special guests! Of course, refreshments will follow. Invite all of your friends and family for a wonderful festive evening. A free will offering will be collected with the proceeds to be split between the Bread of Life Food Pantry and the Trinity Community Center. If you wish to participate in the concert, contact Jill Becker by Sunday, November 21st.
Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Monday, December 13th at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
As a continuation of Messiah's new Arts & Culture Ministry, join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for our community drawing night using the Zentangle Method! Zentangle is a way to use drawing that helps us relax, focus, expand our imaginations, respond confidently to the unexpected and feel gratitude and appreciation for this beautiful world and all that we can do! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Fellowship Hall. All participants will need at home is a pen, a pencil, a qtip and a clean sheet of paper and for those in-person, materials will be provided for the first few sessions. If you're stressed, looking to learn a new skill or just to connect with others this summer, Zentangle is for you! If you can't join us in person, definitely join us on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/8753963537 with password StaySober.
WELCA Christmas Party
Tuesday, December 14th at 6:30pm
The Fleming Estate
RSVP by 12/5 at https://bit.ly/WELCAChristmas2021
We are so excited to announce that the Women of the ELCA will one again be holding its Annual Christmas Party on Tuesday, December 14th at 6:30pm at the home of Jody Fleming (637 Settles Hill Road, Altamont). Please bring a dish to share; a $10 grab bag gift and personal care item(s) for the Battered Women's Shelter. Beverages and dessert will be provided. All women of the church are invited. Please RSVP by December 5th at https://bit.ly/WELCAChristmas2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Mass for the Fourth Sunday in Advent: Love
Sunday, December 19th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Advent, a time of preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ, is a beloved season at Messiah. Christ’s presence in our midst in the wonder of the holy supper is cause for singing. Cradle and cross are inextricably connected on the fourth Sunday of Advent. Between a lovely tribute to the little town of Bethlehem and Mary’s magnificent song of praise, the letter to the Hebrews reminds us in no uncertain terms that Christ’s advent is for “the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Pastor Dustin will preside and in lieu of a sermon we'll have a VERY special Christmas pageant performed by our young people (folks of all ages are required to RSVP by 11/21). A festive reception in the Fellowship Hall will follow the service.
Congregation Council Meeting
Monday, December 20th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/95835192148
Our Congregation Council meets monthly and generally the third Monday of the month at 7:00pm and is tasked with making decisions for the congregation in between Annual and Special Meetings of the Congregation. As a way of increasing transparency and making sure we are addressing all concerns, we wanted to begin publicizing our regular meetings. All are welcome to listen in except during occasional instances when we are in executive session. If you would like something to be added to the Council's agenda, simply contact President Sue Collins. Primary topics for this meeting include implementing the decisions made at our Annual Budget Meeting of the Congregation regarding our Accessibility Campaign and the Trinity Community Center. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/95835192148.
Men's Group Fifth Annual Brotastically Inclusive Christmas Party!
Tuesday, December 21st at 6:30pm
The Bode Estate
RSVP by 12/12 at https://bit.ly/brotasticchristmas2021
The Men of Messiah will once again welcome everyone to our fifth annual Brotastically Inclusive Christmas Party on Tuesday, December 21st beginning at 6:30pm, this year at the Bode Estate! Unlike that other big annual Christmas party at Messiah, everyone's welcome here! This will be a potluck gathering so be sure to bring something tasty but no peanuts please! We’ll also conduct our beloved tradition, the “Yankee Swap of Ridiculous Gifts” (under $10 please). Finally, all are invited to attempt to take the annual "Best Hat" award by wearing the silliest hat you have for this year’s contest! Two years back we believe Phil Bazicki took the prize! Please RSVP by December 12th below! Please RSVP by December 12th at https://bit.ly/brotasticchristmas2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Christmas Eve Potluck 2021
Friday, December 24th at 6:30pm
Worship Center Fellowship Hall
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
RSVP by 12/12 at https://bit.ly/mlcpotluck2021
It's back! For decades the whole community at Messiah has gathered together between Christmas Eve services to spread the holiday cheer, give thanks for the blessings of another year and celebrate Jesus’ birth. Please RSVP by December 12th at https://bit.ly/mlcpotluck2021 or on the narthex bulletin board.
Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Monday, December 27th at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
As a continuation of Messiah's new Arts & Culture Ministry, join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for our community drawing night using the Zentangle Method! Zentangle is a way to use drawing that helps us relax, focus, expand our imaginations, respond confidently to the unexpected and feel gratitude and appreciation for this beautiful world and all that we can do! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Fellowship Hall. All participants will need at home is a pen, a pencil, a qtip and a clean sheet of paper and for those in-person, materials will be provided for the first few sessions. If you're stressed, looking to learn a new skill or just to connect with others this summer, Zentangle is for you! If you can't join us in person, definitely join us on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/8753963537 with password StaySober.
Messiah Youth Night
Sunday, January 9th at 6:00pm
Messiah Worship Center
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
As a way of reconnecting our young people after so long apart, beginning this January we'll host a monthly gathering for middle and high school aged youth on the second Sunday of the month at 6:00pm. Dinner will be included free of charge. Different months will include games, activities and service projects and more. Mark your calendars now and let Pastor Dustin know if your youth is interested!
Social Action Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, January 11th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/91568452071
This is by far our most active ministry team at Messiah! Our Social Action Ministry Team is the space through which we discern all the ways we're called to serve our neighbors following the Way of Jesus Christ! We do this in a wide variety ways, through our Social Justice, Creation Care, Community Service, our work with Schenectady Community Ministries, the Bread of Life Food Pantry ministries and more! The top priorities for discussion in this upcoming meeting include plans for more fully utilizing our Trinity Community Center and planning Thanksgiving Basket Making, #HelpPortrait Schenectady, and other upcoming service events. Our ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/91568452071.
Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting
Wednesday, February 2nd at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94972251705
At Messiah many of us have somehow actually grown closer while physically apart... gosh, the Spirit is certainly at work! The purpose of the Fellowship Ministry Team is to provide opportunities for all of our members (and perspective members) of all ages to connect, hear one another's stories, and have fun! This group includes the Mighty Men of Messiah, Women of the ELCA (WELCA), Care & Concern, Young Adult Group, our Kitchen Committee, Over 55 Gang, our Welcome Committee for new and perspective members and our new Arts & Culture ministry. The team meets quarterly. In this meeting in particular we'll discuss the launch of our Stephen Ministries program, a new Small Groups ministry and other opportunities to get to know one another. If you'd prefer to attend virtually, the link for this evening meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/94972251705.
Faith Formation Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, February 8th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92199006383
Want to help guide how our congregation studies the ancient wisdom of Scripture, explores our connection God and creation and help our young people have a strong, ethical foundation? Join our Faith Formation Ministry Team! This group includes Adult Education, Children's Sunday School, Cradle Roll & Nursery, Youth and Outdoor Ministries! Help us teach folks of all ages how our faith calls us to teach that EVERYONE is created in God's image! The link for this night's meeting is:https://zoom.us/j/92199006383.
Stewardship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, March 8th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/93024204486
Our Stewardship Ministry Team is the group of committees at Messiah that allow us to support our four major program areas. Without being good stewards of our Budget & Finance, Communications, Personnel, Property & Grounds, Mission Support, Archives, Safe Church ministries and more, there's no way we could engage in all the life-changing ministries we do at Messiah. Focuses of this meeting will be reviewing the results of our capital campaign and making a final recommendation on whether or not to move forward with the project. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/93024204486.
ELCA Youth Gathering
Sunday, July 24th - Thursday, July 28th, 2022
Minneapolis, Minnesota
If your youth is anywhere from 8th to 12th grade this year, they can attend the ELCA Youth Gathering! Every three years, roughly 30,000 Lutheran youth from across the country converge for a week of learning, worship, service and fun and this summer the gathering is in Minneapolis. To find out more visit https://www.elca.org/YouthGathering. Messiah is committed to covering the majority of costs of this event, but we just need to know if your child/ youth is interested by Sunday, November 21st. So far, Grace, Sarah, Kristen Olochnowicz and Pastor Dustin have committed to attending. Messiah's youth will join their peers from nearby Our Redeemer and Good Shepherd Lutheran Churches as well!
To view our complete parish calendar, click here.