PARISH EVENTS
"Whitewashed: The Racism Project" Film Screening
Friday, May 20th at 7:00pm
Albany Barn
52 2nd Street in Albany, NY
Join Pastor Dustin and members of the ELCA Upstate New York Synod Racial Justice Task Force for a screening of "Whitewashed: The Racism Project," an original documentary theater performance, based on Black history, current events, and the personal experiences of the cast at the Albany Barn! Actors from the film will be on hand to discuss the work following the screening.
Trinity Community Center Produce Pantry
Fridays at 4:30pm
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 at 4:30pm first come, first serve. This weekly distribution will take place outside with drive-up service available. No ID, paperwork, or pre-registering required!
Spring 2022 Sunday Forum: The Earth and Its Distress: Restoring Creation, Justice, and Sustainability
Sundays at 8:45am
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81599070672
Thoughtful people agree that the planetary crisis we face--climate change, species extinction, the destruction of ecosystems, and the need for a more just economic order--is pushing our earth community to a radical turning point. Larry Rasmussen, Lutheran theologian and ethicist, author of Earth Community Earth Ethics (Orbis: 1996), which we will use as our basic text for this course, writes: "The world around us is also within. We are an expression of it; it is an expression of us. . . . Earth is bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. This is not 'environment' so much as the holy mystery of creation, made for and by all earth's creatures together" (xii). This course will be offered by Merle Longwood on Sunday mornings from 8:45 - 9:45 on Zoom from March 6 to May 29. We will use this book, written when Professor Rasmussen was co-chair of Unit III (Justice, Peace, Creation) of the World Council of Churches. In addition, we will read selected additional readings and watch videos that will emphasize ongoing issues facing our "earth community" in need of "earth ethics" as a response. Here are our readings for the upcoming week:
Larry L Rasmussen, Earth Community Earth Ethics, 282-316.
Acts 7:54-60
Rogation Mass for the Sixth Sunday of Easter
Sunday, May 22nd at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Visions abound in the readings for the sixth Sunday of Easter. Paul has a vision about what to do. John has a vision of what will be. Jesus provides visions of peace that surpasses human understanding and power beyond human imagination. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside while Emily Russo will join us for a testimonial on the work of the Worship & Music Ministry Team as part of our 2022 Time & Talent Mission Support Campaign!
This mass will also serve as Rogation Sunday, our annual Sunday of prayer as we prepare to plant our Rev. Richard Rieger Memorial Harvest Garden.
Spring Service Day
Sunday, May 22nd at 11:30am
Worship Center Lawn
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
We need everyone for this critical day of service! Following our Rogation Sunday worship we'll start with a quick lunch and coffee and then head outside to clean up after a long winter and beginning planting our Rev. Richard Rieger Memorial Harvest Garden. Especially as we continue to welcome more and more folks to our Trinity Community Center, we hope our neighbors will join us to clean up and plant flowers around the Community Center as well!
Community Crafting Mondays
Mondays from 1:00p-3:00p
Trinity Community Center Fellowship Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
Looking to build some community with likemind folks after such a difficult year? Come stop by our Community Crafting Mondays hosted at Messiah's Trinity Community Center. From knitting, crocheting, painting, hand sewing to making all sorts of community projects, our Community Crafting Mondays has it all! Most importantly, it's just a friendly place to learn from and talk with one another!
Zumba with Annie Grzywaczewski
Mondays from 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center Fellowship Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, New York
Zumba is a total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy and a serious dose of awesome as you exercise to amazing Latin and World music. Each session is $8 per hour long class. Annie has worked in our local area as a Zumba teacher for eight years and she'd love to see you in class! If you have any questions, please contact her directly at annieg39@aol.com!
Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Mondays at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center Art Studio
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
Join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for what is now our WEEKLY 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! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Art Room. 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.
Grant Writing Workshop
Tuesday, May 24th at 7:00pm
Worship Center Fellowship Hall
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Without a doubt, a big part of Messiah's success as of late has been working with outside organizations, government entities and foundations to support our ministries with grant funding. Most notably, a $75,000 grant from the Schenectady Foundation has allowed us to renovate and launch our significantly expanded Bread of Life Food Pantry in the Trinity Community Center. Grant writing, however, is not easy, and we at Messiah need to greatly expand our ability both to write and administer grants in the months and years ahead to continue growing our ability to nourish our neighborhood in body, mind and soul! With that fact in mind, Messiah member Barbara Quackenbush will lead an in-person only grant writing workshop on Tuesday, May 24th in the Fellowship Hall for Messiah members. A light supper will be provided. If you're interested, please RSVP by Sunday, May 22nd at https://bit.ly/GrantWritingMLC.
Chair Yoga with Jean Marie Sefcovic, CYT, LMT
Wednesdays from May 25th - July 6th (excluding 6/15) from 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Trinity Community Center Performance Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, New York
Chair yoga can improve flexibility, concentration, strengthen & boost your mood, reduce stress and joint strain. More benefits include new friendships, muscle toning, better breathing habits, better sleep and overall sense of well being. Each session is $12 per hour class. RSVP to Jean Marie at yoginijean@yahoo.com.
Gentle Yoga with Jean Marie Sefcovic, CYT, LMT
Wednesdays from May 25th - July 6th (excluding 6/15) from 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Trinity Community Center Performance Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, New York
Yoga can improve flexibility, concentration, strength, muscle tone, better breathing habits, better sleep and overall sense of well being. Each session incorporates centering, gentle stretches, asanas - simple postures and posture flow and shavasana-final relaxation. Each session is $15 per hour class. RSVP to Jean Marie at yoginijean@yahoo.com.
Easter Evensong: "The Disabled God" with Hanna Avery
Session 4: Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities
Wednesday, May 25th at 7:00pm
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81828318012
As we journey towards the groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign this June, our Easter 2022 Evensong series will focus on the intersection of the Bible, Christian history and the work of striving for the rights of persons with disabilities locally, nationally and around the world. The course is co-taught by Pastor Dustin, Pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church and Hanna Avery, a young adult member of Messiah and disability rights activist. During our fourth session, we focus in on including people with intellectual and developmental dis-abilities in the wider Church. Optional pre-reading for this session is below.
“When Hospitality & Belonging Becomes Hard: Faith Community Strategies.” American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Religion and Spirituality Network. 28 April 2022.
Compline for the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord
featuring Leaders of the Trinity Community Center
Friday, May 26th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
As we celebrate the Feast of the Ascension, join Pastor Dustin and leaders of our Trinity Community Center for a compline service of reflection on how we are continuing to serve Christ in our flagship social action ministry nourishing our local community in body, mind and soul!
Mass for the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord
Sunday, May 29th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
In today’s readings the risen Christ ascends into heaven and his followers are assured that the Spirit will empower them to be witnesses throughout the earth. The disciples are told to not gaze up into heaven to look for Jesus (Acts 1:11); we find his presence among us as we proclaim the word and share the Easter feast. We too long for the Spirit to enliven our faith and invigorate our mission. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside while Penny Incitti will join us for a testimonial on the work of the Stewardship Ministry Team as part of our 2022 Time & Talent Mission Support Campaign!
Compline for the Feast of the Visit of Mary to Elizabeth
featuring Women of the ELCA
Tuesday, May 31st at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Elizabeth is the first person to recognize the great thing that is happening to Mary, and Mary responds with the song called the Magnificat. This song echoes Hannah’s, thanking God for bringing down the powerful and lifting up the poor. But while Hannah sings her song in the official house of worship, Mary sings hers in what may be seen as the prototype of the Christian ekklesia. Not a holy building but a gathering of the faithful: two women meeting in a home, who rejoice together in what God is doing in the coming of Jesus. On this very special feast day, members of our Women of the ELCA organization will reflect on their years of mission at Messiah and all they hope to accomplish in the coming months.
Easter Evensong: "The Disabled God" with Hanna Avery
Session 5: The Reign of God: A Way Forward
Wednesday, June 1st at 7:00pm
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81828318012
As we journey towards the groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign this June, our Easter 2022 Evensong series will focus on the intersection of the Bible, Christian history and the work of striving for the rights of persons with disabilities locally, nationally and around the world. The course is co-taught by Pastor Dustin, Pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church and Hanna Avery, a young adult member of Messiah and disability rights activist. In our fifth and final session, we look at how the Church is beginning to change in the way it relates to people with disabilities, discuss inclusive language and reflect on practical ways we can build more welcoming and accessible congregations. Optional pre-reading for this session is below.“The Gift of Being: Called to Be a Church of All and for All.” World Council of Churches. June 2016.
Holland, Rev. Rebecca L. “16 Easy Ways the Church Can More Accessible to People with Disabilities,” in Rev. Becky Writes. 17 January 2019.
Choir Practice IS BACK
Thursdays, Starting June 2nd at 7:00pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
The long anticipated return of Mr. Doug is here! We will be restarting choir as well! Rehearsals are starting back up every Thursday evening at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us! If you have any questions please reach out to Doug Chilton.
Schenectady Pride Festival
Saturday, June 4th at 2:30pm
12 State Street in Schenectady, NY
Schenectady Pride will host its tenth annual festival on Saturday, June 4th from 2:30pm to 6:00pm at Gateway Plaza where the Rainbow Pride Arches are next to SUNY Schenectady! The event will include live entertainment from DJ RVMBA (a good friend of Pastor Dustin's), Schenectady Musical Theater and a Drag Show along with food, drinks, vendors and information from local non-profits. Join members of Messiah and Schenectady Clergy Against Hate as we lift up our vision of what a welcoming, affirming and celebrating faith community can look like! If you are interested in participating, please speak with Pastor Dustin.
Bonfire, Smores and Vigil for the Feast of Pentecost
Saturday, June 4th at 6:00pm
Worship Center Gardens
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Join us for awesome yard games and brief, family friendly bonfire liturgy (complete with s'mores!) as we prepare to celebrate the long dreamed about groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign the following Pentecost morning! At this liturgy we gather in vigilant prayer as the disciples did in the days preceding Pentecost. Our world waits for an end to war and violence. The whole creation waits for an end to suffering. With undying hope we pray for the crowning gift of Easter—the Spirit of the risen Christ among us!
Mass for the Feast of Pentecost
Sunday, June 5th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
On Pentecost, we celebrate that we have been given an Advocate to accompany us. Poured out in wind and fire, water, wine, and bread, the Holy Spirit abides in and among us. We give thanks that God speaks to each of us, no matter our origins, language, or life path. Filled with the Spirit of truth, we go out from worship to proclaim the saving power of Christ’s love and the freedom of God’s grace with all the world. As part of our annual celebration of this VERY cherished feast day at Messiah, guests from throughout Messiah's history and other civic leaders will join us as we celebrate the official groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign. This Sunday will also serve as the culmination of our 2022 Time & Talent Mission Support Campaign and stay tuned for more details as a festive meal will follow the service!
A Place at the Table for Everyone Groundbreaking Luncheon
Sunday, June 5th at 12:00pm
Worship Center Fellowship Hall
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
All members, friends and neighbors are invited to join guests from throughout Messiah's history s as we celebrate the official groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign. Please RSVP at by May 29th at https://bit.ly/mlcgroundbreaking.
Worship & Music Ministry Team Meeting
Monday, June 6th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/96341841016
Interested in helping our faith community figure out how we'll continue to ground ourselves in the Way of Jesus each and every Sunday? Join our Worship & Music Ministry Team! In addition to planning for regular Sunday services, this group also coordinates our Choir, our Altar Guild and our Prayer ministries! The team meets (almost) every month, usually on the first Monday of the month at 7:00pm. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/96341841016.
Trinity Community Center Planning Meeting
Tuesday, June 7th at 7:00pm
Trinity Community Center Davis Room
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84794394682
Especially with Pastor Dustin headed out on a honeymoon leave soon, leaders of groups at our Trinity Community Center will touch base to continue to make sure everything will be running smoothly over the summer. Additionally, we'll be making final plans for a wide variety of upcoming events from our Ice Cream Social & Concert to our Movie Night and more. Please join us in-person in the Davis Room if possible but you can Zoom in as well at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84794394682.
Compline for the Feast of Barnabas, Apostle
featuring our Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Task Force
Saturday, June 11th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Barnabas spoke for the newly converted Paul to the Jerusalem believers, who were understandably still afraid of Paul, and later the two of them went on missionary journeys together to the Gentiles (Acts 13–14), until they had a falling-out (Acts 15:36 ff.). Jesus’ instructions in Matthew perhaps suggest their experiences on their travels, and Isaiah’s words “I have given you as . . . a light to the nations” speak to their mission to the Gentiles... On a day where we recognize the importance of spreading the Good News to everyone, without exception, we'll hear from leaders of our recent Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Task Force, discussing all Messiah has done and is working to do to welcome people of all ages, races, ethnicities, nationalities, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, relationship statuses, socioeconomic statuses, disabilities, and mental and physical conditions into full participation in the body of Christ.
Pride Mass for the Feast of the Holy Trinity
Sunday, June 12th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
“O Lord our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!” Today we celebrate the holy Trinity. Paul writes that through Jesus we have peace with God, whose love pours into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, giving us lasting hope. We celebrate the gracious One-in-Three, eternal Three-in-One, as we worship in community; as we share water and word, bread and wine; and as we bring God’s love and hope to our neighbors. Pastor Dustin will preside as we celebrate our annual recognition of Pride Month and recommit to our work of welcoming and celebrating all God's children at Messiah!
Capital Pride Parade and Festival
Sunday, June 12th at 12:00pm
Washington Park Historic District in Albany, NY
Right after our annual Pride Mass all are invited to pop in their cars and join us as we march alongside our friends from Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and Schenectady Clergy Against Hate in the Capital Pride Parade. A kid friendly festival will begin following the parade from 1:00pm - 5:00pm. If you are interested in participating, please speak with Pastor Dustin.
Stewardship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, June 14th 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. Focus of this meeting will include a review of our financial situation, final planning for Pastor Dustin's honeymoon this summer and for the construction of our accessibility upgrades and more. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/93024204486.
Neighborhood Ice Cream Social & Concert
Wednesday, June 15th from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Trinity Community Center Yard
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
The Trinity Community Center presents an outdoor concert and ice cream social for all of our neighbors featuring singer/songwriting group The Midnight Anthem! Made up of "cousins at birth but sisters at heart" Catherine, Sophia & Grace and hailing from New England, their music is an entertaining blend of original songs and popular tunes with a country flair. They have been compared to a wide range of performers from yesteryear such as America, Johnny Cash, The Cranberries, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Dolly Parton and Simon & Garfunkel. They have also been influenced by twenty-first century artists including Miranda Lambert, Halsey, Luke Bryan, Maren Morris, Paramore, and Taylor Swift. There will be free ice cream sundaes for all to enjoy provided by our good friends at Stewart's Shops! The event is free for all but contributions to benefit the Trinity Community Center will be greatly appreciated! Please bring your own lawn chair. In case of rain, the concert will be inside our new performance hall. Join us for a family friendly night of fun!
The Wedding of Rachel Longmire and Rev. Dustin Wright
Saturday, June 18th at 4:00pm
Messiah Worship Center Sanctuary and Gardens
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Save the date for Rachel and Pastor Dustin's wedding! As a thank you for so many years of wonderful ministry together, all members of the congregation are invited to an interfaith wedding ceremony in our sanctuary followed by a rocking reception under a REALLY big tent in our gardens. Pulled pork, barbeque chicken and a vegetarian option will be provided by Wagon Train BBQ while congregation members are asked to bring a side dish, hence making this a "kinda potluck!" Roughly two hundred guests are expected so this will be QUITE the day of celebration in our Spirit filled congregation! If you are interested in assisting with food, please speak with Jill Becker. Stay tuned for RSVPs in mid April!
Father's Day Mass for the Second Sunday after Pentecost
Sunday, June 19th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
This Sunday’s texts paint startling pictures of the horrific nature of sin. The church’s repeated celebration of holy communion counters that tragic reality in a continued showing forth of the death of Jesus until he comes again. It is a dramatic declaration of “how much God has done for you.” We also offer a very special prayer for fathers and all those who provide fathering care.
Congregation Council
Monday, June 20th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/95835192148
The Congregation Council is tasked with oversight of all congregation business in between Annual and Special Meetings of the Congregation. Members of the congregation (and frankly the general public) are welcome to listen in unless the Council goes into Executive Session. If you'd like something added to the Congregation Council's agenda, please speak with President Sue Collins.
Property & Grounds Committee Meeting
Tuesday, June 21st at 6:30pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Given how much work needs to be done to upgrade and repair our Worship Center and Parsonage as well as our new Community Center at the Trinity Reformed site, our Property & Grounds Committee has decided to begin meeting on a monthly basis. Please contact Chair Steve Friebel if you'd like to assist or have any questions!
Compline for the Feast of John the Baptist
featuring the Jubilee USA Network
Friday, June 24th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
John the Baptist is a unique figure in Christian memory, a hinge between the Old Testament prophets and the first Christians. In the gospel stories he recognizes Jesus as one greater than himself, one for whose coming he prepares the way. But still from his prison he asks if Jesus is truly the Expected One. He is a figure of perpetual Advent and in that way stands for all of us who may be Christian believers but still wait and wonder, discern and doubt. As a way of honoring John the Baptist's prophetic words against systemic sin, we'll have an opportunity to learn more about the work of the Jubilee USA Network, an bipartisan organization that works on making the world's economic systems more just and sustainable.
Rotterdam Summer Movie Night
Saturday, June 25th at 6:30pm
Trinity Community Center Performance Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
Join us for a fun family friendly movie screening projected in the Trinity Community Center! The event is free although donations will be accepted and snacks can be purchased. To find out what movie we'll be playing, call us at 518.355.2311
Mass for the Third Sunday after Pentecost
Sunday, June 26th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
We have no good apart from God. That makes Jesus’ call to follow him an invitation to freedom. This is freedom to revel in the Spirit’s fruit: love, joy, peace, and patience. This is freedom to not be imprisoned by anything that would keep us from the fullness of the life God has given us. This is the path of life.
Compline for the Feast of Peter and Paul, Apostles
featuring our Faith Formation Ministry Team
Friday, June 29th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Today we celebrate two great figures of the early church, Peter and Paul, who represent the spread of the gospel to both Jews and Gentiles and, according to tradition, were martyred on this date. The witness of Peter and Paul inspires us as we seek ways to faithfully proclaim the gospel in our contemporary context. As a way of honoring both Peter & Paul's traditions as teachers of the Way of Christ, we'll hear from our Faith Formation Ministry Team about all their preparing for this summer and the autumn ahead.
Social Action Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, July 12th 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 and our Produce Pantry. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/91568452071.
Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, August 2nd at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94641179066
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. This will be a virtual meeting at https://zoom.us/j/94641179066.
Faith Formation Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, August 9th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92199006383
Join us as we plan a whole new season of faith formation experiences that will launch for all ages this fall at Messiah! This group includes Adult Education, Children's Sunday School, Cradle Roll & Nursery and Youth 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.
To view our complete parish calendar, click here.
Friday, May 20th at 7:00pm
Albany Barn
52 2nd Street in Albany, NY
Join Pastor Dustin and members of the ELCA Upstate New York Synod Racial Justice Task Force for a screening of "Whitewashed: The Racism Project," an original documentary theater performance, based on Black history, current events, and the personal experiences of the cast at the Albany Barn! Actors from the film will be on hand to discuss the work following the screening.
Trinity Community Center Produce Pantry
Fridays at 4:30pm
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 at 4:30pm first come, first serve. This weekly distribution will take place outside with drive-up service available. No ID, paperwork, or pre-registering required!
Spring 2022 Sunday Forum: The Earth and Its Distress: Restoring Creation, Justice, and Sustainability
Sundays at 8:45am
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81599070672
Thoughtful people agree that the planetary crisis we face--climate change, species extinction, the destruction of ecosystems, and the need for a more just economic order--is pushing our earth community to a radical turning point. Larry Rasmussen, Lutheran theologian and ethicist, author of Earth Community Earth Ethics (Orbis: 1996), which we will use as our basic text for this course, writes: "The world around us is also within. We are an expression of it; it is an expression of us. . . . Earth is bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. This is not 'environment' so much as the holy mystery of creation, made for and by all earth's creatures together" (xii). This course will be offered by Merle Longwood on Sunday mornings from 8:45 - 9:45 on Zoom from March 6 to May 29. We will use this book, written when Professor Rasmussen was co-chair of Unit III (Justice, Peace, Creation) of the World Council of Churches. In addition, we will read selected additional readings and watch videos that will emphasize ongoing issues facing our "earth community" in need of "earth ethics" as a response. Here are our readings for the upcoming week:
Larry L Rasmussen, Earth Community Earth Ethics, 282-316.
Acts 7:54-60
Rogation Mass for the Sixth Sunday of Easter
Sunday, May 22nd at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Visions abound in the readings for the sixth Sunday of Easter. Paul has a vision about what to do. John has a vision of what will be. Jesus provides visions of peace that surpasses human understanding and power beyond human imagination. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside while Emily Russo will join us for a testimonial on the work of the Worship & Music Ministry Team as part of our 2022 Time & Talent Mission Support Campaign!
This mass will also serve as Rogation Sunday, our annual Sunday of prayer as we prepare to plant our Rev. Richard Rieger Memorial Harvest Garden.
Spring Service Day
Sunday, May 22nd at 11:30am
Worship Center Lawn
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
We need everyone for this critical day of service! Following our Rogation Sunday worship we'll start with a quick lunch and coffee and then head outside to clean up after a long winter and beginning planting our Rev. Richard Rieger Memorial Harvest Garden. Especially as we continue to welcome more and more folks to our Trinity Community Center, we hope our neighbors will join us to clean up and plant flowers around the Community Center as well!
Community Crafting Mondays
Mondays from 1:00p-3:00p
Trinity Community Center Fellowship Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
Looking to build some community with likemind folks after such a difficult year? Come stop by our Community Crafting Mondays hosted at Messiah's Trinity Community Center. From knitting, crocheting, painting, hand sewing to making all sorts of community projects, our Community Crafting Mondays has it all! Most importantly, it's just a friendly place to learn from and talk with one another!
Zumba with Annie Grzywaczewski
Mondays from 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center Fellowship Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, New York
Zumba is a total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy and a serious dose of awesome as you exercise to amazing Latin and World music. Each session is $8 per hour long class. Annie has worked in our local area as a Zumba teacher for eight years and she'd love to see you in class! If you have any questions, please contact her directly at annieg39@aol.com!
Zentangle with Russell McDonald, CZT
Mondays at 6:00pm
Trinity Community Center Art Studio
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://zoom.us/j/8753963537
Join our very own Russell McDonald, Certified Zentangle Teacher, for what is now our WEEKLY 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! This will be a hybrid virtual/ in-person event broadcast from our new Trinity Community Center's Art Room. 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.
Grant Writing Workshop
Tuesday, May 24th at 7:00pm
Worship Center Fellowship Hall
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Without a doubt, a big part of Messiah's success as of late has been working with outside organizations, government entities and foundations to support our ministries with grant funding. Most notably, a $75,000 grant from the Schenectady Foundation has allowed us to renovate and launch our significantly expanded Bread of Life Food Pantry in the Trinity Community Center. Grant writing, however, is not easy, and we at Messiah need to greatly expand our ability both to write and administer grants in the months and years ahead to continue growing our ability to nourish our neighborhood in body, mind and soul! With that fact in mind, Messiah member Barbara Quackenbush will lead an in-person only grant writing workshop on Tuesday, May 24th in the Fellowship Hall for Messiah members. A light supper will be provided. If you're interested, please RSVP by Sunday, May 22nd at https://bit.ly/GrantWritingMLC.
Chair Yoga with Jean Marie Sefcovic, CYT, LMT
Wednesdays from May 25th - July 6th (excluding 6/15) from 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Trinity Community Center Performance Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, New York
Chair yoga can improve flexibility, concentration, strengthen & boost your mood, reduce stress and joint strain. More benefits include new friendships, muscle toning, better breathing habits, better sleep and overall sense of well being. Each session is $12 per hour class. RSVP to Jean Marie at yoginijean@yahoo.com.
Gentle Yoga with Jean Marie Sefcovic, CYT, LMT
Wednesdays from May 25th - July 6th (excluding 6/15) from 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Trinity Community Center Performance Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, New York
Yoga can improve flexibility, concentration, strength, muscle tone, better breathing habits, better sleep and overall sense of well being. Each session incorporates centering, gentle stretches, asanas - simple postures and posture flow and shavasana-final relaxation. Each session is $15 per hour class. RSVP to Jean Marie at yoginijean@yahoo.com.
Easter Evensong: "The Disabled God" with Hanna Avery
Session 4: Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities
Wednesday, May 25th at 7:00pm
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81828318012
As we journey towards the groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign this June, our Easter 2022 Evensong series will focus on the intersection of the Bible, Christian history and the work of striving for the rights of persons with disabilities locally, nationally and around the world. The course is co-taught by Pastor Dustin, Pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church and Hanna Avery, a young adult member of Messiah and disability rights activist. During our fourth session, we focus in on including people with intellectual and developmental dis-abilities in the wider Church. Optional pre-reading for this session is below.
“When Hospitality & Belonging Becomes Hard: Faith Community Strategies.” American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Religion and Spirituality Network. 28 April 2022.
Compline for the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord
featuring Leaders of the Trinity Community Center
Friday, May 26th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
As we celebrate the Feast of the Ascension, join Pastor Dustin and leaders of our Trinity Community Center for a compline service of reflection on how we are continuing to serve Christ in our flagship social action ministry nourishing our local community in body, mind and soul!
Mass for the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord
Sunday, May 29th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
In today’s readings the risen Christ ascends into heaven and his followers are assured that the Spirit will empower them to be witnesses throughout the earth. The disciples are told to not gaze up into heaven to look for Jesus (Acts 1:11); we find his presence among us as we proclaim the word and share the Easter feast. We too long for the Spirit to enliven our faith and invigorate our mission. Pastor Dustin will preach and preside while Penny Incitti will join us for a testimonial on the work of the Stewardship Ministry Team as part of our 2022 Time & Talent Mission Support Campaign!
Compline for the Feast of the Visit of Mary to Elizabeth
featuring Women of the ELCA
Tuesday, May 31st at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Elizabeth is the first person to recognize the great thing that is happening to Mary, and Mary responds with the song called the Magnificat. This song echoes Hannah’s, thanking God for bringing down the powerful and lifting up the poor. But while Hannah sings her song in the official house of worship, Mary sings hers in what may be seen as the prototype of the Christian ekklesia. Not a holy building but a gathering of the faithful: two women meeting in a home, who rejoice together in what God is doing in the coming of Jesus. On this very special feast day, members of our Women of the ELCA organization will reflect on their years of mission at Messiah and all they hope to accomplish in the coming months.
Easter Evensong: "The Disabled God" with Hanna Avery
Session 5: The Reign of God: A Way Forward
Wednesday, June 1st at 7:00pm
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81828318012
As we journey towards the groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign this June, our Easter 2022 Evensong series will focus on the intersection of the Bible, Christian history and the work of striving for the rights of persons with disabilities locally, nationally and around the world. The course is co-taught by Pastor Dustin, Pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church and Hanna Avery, a young adult member of Messiah and disability rights activist. In our fifth and final session, we look at how the Church is beginning to change in the way it relates to people with disabilities, discuss inclusive language and reflect on practical ways we can build more welcoming and accessible congregations. Optional pre-reading for this session is below.“The Gift of Being: Called to Be a Church of All and for All.” World Council of Churches. June 2016.
Holland, Rev. Rebecca L. “16 Easy Ways the Church Can More Accessible to People with Disabilities,” in Rev. Becky Writes. 17 January 2019.
Choir Practice IS BACK
Thursdays, Starting June 2nd at 7:00pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
The long anticipated return of Mr. Doug is here! We will be restarting choir as well! Rehearsals are starting back up every Thursday evening at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us! If you have any questions please reach out to Doug Chilton.
Schenectady Pride Festival
Saturday, June 4th at 2:30pm
12 State Street in Schenectady, NY
Schenectady Pride will host its tenth annual festival on Saturday, June 4th from 2:30pm to 6:00pm at Gateway Plaza where the Rainbow Pride Arches are next to SUNY Schenectady! The event will include live entertainment from DJ RVMBA (a good friend of Pastor Dustin's), Schenectady Musical Theater and a Drag Show along with food, drinks, vendors and information from local non-profits. Join members of Messiah and Schenectady Clergy Against Hate as we lift up our vision of what a welcoming, affirming and celebrating faith community can look like! If you are interested in participating, please speak with Pastor Dustin.
Bonfire, Smores and Vigil for the Feast of Pentecost
Saturday, June 4th at 6:00pm
Worship Center Gardens
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Join us for awesome yard games and brief, family friendly bonfire liturgy (complete with s'mores!) as we prepare to celebrate the long dreamed about groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign the following Pentecost morning! At this liturgy we gather in vigilant prayer as the disciples did in the days preceding Pentecost. Our world waits for an end to war and violence. The whole creation waits for an end to suffering. With undying hope we pray for the crowning gift of Easter—the Spirit of the risen Christ among us!
Mass for the Feast of Pentecost
Sunday, June 5th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
On Pentecost, we celebrate that we have been given an Advocate to accompany us. Poured out in wind and fire, water, wine, and bread, the Holy Spirit abides in and among us. We give thanks that God speaks to each of us, no matter our origins, language, or life path. Filled with the Spirit of truth, we go out from worship to proclaim the saving power of Christ’s love and the freedom of God’s grace with all the world. As part of our annual celebration of this VERY cherished feast day at Messiah, guests from throughout Messiah's history and other civic leaders will join us as we celebrate the official groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign. This Sunday will also serve as the culmination of our 2022 Time & Talent Mission Support Campaign and stay tuned for more details as a festive meal will follow the service!
A Place at the Table for Everyone Groundbreaking Luncheon
Sunday, June 5th at 12:00pm
Worship Center Fellowship Hall
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
All members, friends and neighbors are invited to join guests from throughout Messiah's history s as we celebrate the official groundbreaking for our "A Place at the Table for Everyone" Accessibility Campaign. Please RSVP at by May 29th at https://bit.ly/mlcgroundbreaking.
Worship & Music Ministry Team Meeting
Monday, June 6th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/96341841016
Interested in helping our faith community figure out how we'll continue to ground ourselves in the Way of Jesus each and every Sunday? Join our Worship & Music Ministry Team! In addition to planning for regular Sunday services, this group also coordinates our Choir, our Altar Guild and our Prayer ministries! The team meets (almost) every month, usually on the first Monday of the month at 7:00pm. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/96341841016.
Trinity Community Center Planning Meeting
Tuesday, June 7th at 7:00pm
Trinity Community Center Davis Room
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84794394682
Especially with Pastor Dustin headed out on a honeymoon leave soon, leaders of groups at our Trinity Community Center will touch base to continue to make sure everything will be running smoothly over the summer. Additionally, we'll be making final plans for a wide variety of upcoming events from our Ice Cream Social & Concert to our Movie Night and more. Please join us in-person in the Davis Room if possible but you can Zoom in as well at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84794394682.
Compline for the Feast of Barnabas, Apostle
featuring our Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Task Force
Saturday, June 11th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Barnabas spoke for the newly converted Paul to the Jerusalem believers, who were understandably still afraid of Paul, and later the two of them went on missionary journeys together to the Gentiles (Acts 13–14), until they had a falling-out (Acts 15:36 ff.). Jesus’ instructions in Matthew perhaps suggest their experiences on their travels, and Isaiah’s words “I have given you as . . . a light to the nations” speak to their mission to the Gentiles... On a day where we recognize the importance of spreading the Good News to everyone, without exception, we'll hear from leaders of our recent Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Task Force, discussing all Messiah has done and is working to do to welcome people of all ages, races, ethnicities, nationalities, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, relationship statuses, socioeconomic statuses, disabilities, and mental and physical conditions into full participation in the body of Christ.
Pride Mass for the Feast of the Holy Trinity
Sunday, June 12th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
“O Lord our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!” Today we celebrate the holy Trinity. Paul writes that through Jesus we have peace with God, whose love pours into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, giving us lasting hope. We celebrate the gracious One-in-Three, eternal Three-in-One, as we worship in community; as we share water and word, bread and wine; and as we bring God’s love and hope to our neighbors. Pastor Dustin will preside as we celebrate our annual recognition of Pride Month and recommit to our work of welcoming and celebrating all God's children at Messiah!
Capital Pride Parade and Festival
Sunday, June 12th at 12:00pm
Washington Park Historic District in Albany, NY
Right after our annual Pride Mass all are invited to pop in their cars and join us as we march alongside our friends from Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and Schenectady Clergy Against Hate in the Capital Pride Parade. A kid friendly festival will begin following the parade from 1:00pm - 5:00pm. If you are interested in participating, please speak with Pastor Dustin.
Stewardship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, June 14th 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. Focus of this meeting will include a review of our financial situation, final planning for Pastor Dustin's honeymoon this summer and for the construction of our accessibility upgrades and more. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/93024204486.
Neighborhood Ice Cream Social & Concert
Wednesday, June 15th from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Trinity Community Center Yard
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
The Trinity Community Center presents an outdoor concert and ice cream social for all of our neighbors featuring singer/songwriting group The Midnight Anthem! Made up of "cousins at birth but sisters at heart" Catherine, Sophia & Grace and hailing from New England, their music is an entertaining blend of original songs and popular tunes with a country flair. They have been compared to a wide range of performers from yesteryear such as America, Johnny Cash, The Cranberries, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Dolly Parton and Simon & Garfunkel. They have also been influenced by twenty-first century artists including Miranda Lambert, Halsey, Luke Bryan, Maren Morris, Paramore, and Taylor Swift. There will be free ice cream sundaes for all to enjoy provided by our good friends at Stewart's Shops! The event is free for all but contributions to benefit the Trinity Community Center will be greatly appreciated! Please bring your own lawn chair. In case of rain, the concert will be inside our new performance hall. Join us for a family friendly night of fun!
The Wedding of Rachel Longmire and Rev. Dustin Wright
Saturday, June 18th at 4:00pm
Messiah Worship Center Sanctuary and Gardens
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Save the date for Rachel and Pastor Dustin's wedding! As a thank you for so many years of wonderful ministry together, all members of the congregation are invited to an interfaith wedding ceremony in our sanctuary followed by a rocking reception under a REALLY big tent in our gardens. Pulled pork, barbeque chicken and a vegetarian option will be provided by Wagon Train BBQ while congregation members are asked to bring a side dish, hence making this a "kinda potluck!" Roughly two hundred guests are expected so this will be QUITE the day of celebration in our Spirit filled congregation! If you are interested in assisting with food, please speak with Jill Becker. Stay tuned for RSVPs in mid April!
Father's Day Mass for the Second Sunday after Pentecost
Sunday, June 19th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
This Sunday’s texts paint startling pictures of the horrific nature of sin. The church’s repeated celebration of holy communion counters that tragic reality in a continued showing forth of the death of Jesus until he comes again. It is a dramatic declaration of “how much God has done for you.” We also offer a very special prayer for fathers and all those who provide fathering care.
Congregation Council
Monday, June 20th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/95835192148
The Congregation Council is tasked with oversight of all congregation business in between Annual and Special Meetings of the Congregation. Members of the congregation (and frankly the general public) are welcome to listen in unless the Council goes into Executive Session. If you'd like something added to the Congregation Council's agenda, please speak with President Sue Collins.
Property & Grounds Committee Meeting
Tuesday, June 21st at 6:30pm
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Given how much work needs to be done to upgrade and repair our Worship Center and Parsonage as well as our new Community Center at the Trinity Reformed site, our Property & Grounds Committee has decided to begin meeting on a monthly basis. Please contact Chair Steve Friebel if you'd like to assist or have any questions!
Compline for the Feast of John the Baptist
featuring the Jubilee USA Network
Friday, June 24th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
John the Baptist is a unique figure in Christian memory, a hinge between the Old Testament prophets and the first Christians. In the gospel stories he recognizes Jesus as one greater than himself, one for whose coming he prepares the way. But still from his prison he asks if Jesus is truly the Expected One. He is a figure of perpetual Advent and in that way stands for all of us who may be Christian believers but still wait and wonder, discern and doubt. As a way of honoring John the Baptist's prophetic words against systemic sin, we'll have an opportunity to learn more about the work of the Jubilee USA Network, an bipartisan organization that works on making the world's economic systems more just and sustainable.
Rotterdam Summer Movie Night
Saturday, June 25th at 6:30pm
Trinity Community Center Performance Hall
705 Curry Road in Rotterdam, NY
Join us for a fun family friendly movie screening projected in the Trinity Community Center! The event is free although donations will be accepted and snacks can be purchased. To find out what movie we'll be playing, call us at 518.355.2311
Mass for the Third Sunday after Pentecost
Sunday, June 26th at 10:15am
Worship Center Sanctuary
2850 Guilderland Avenue in Rotterdam, NY
Streaming on Facebook Watch
We have no good apart from God. That makes Jesus’ call to follow him an invitation to freedom. This is freedom to revel in the Spirit’s fruit: love, joy, peace, and patience. This is freedom to not be imprisoned by anything that would keep us from the fullness of the life God has given us. This is the path of life.
Compline for the Feast of Peter and Paul, Apostles
featuring our Faith Formation Ministry Team
Friday, June 29th at 7:00pm
Streaming on Facebook Watch
Today we celebrate two great figures of the early church, Peter and Paul, who represent the spread of the gospel to both Jews and Gentiles and, according to tradition, were martyred on this date. The witness of Peter and Paul inspires us as we seek ways to faithfully proclaim the gospel in our contemporary context. As a way of honoring both Peter & Paul's traditions as teachers of the Way of Christ, we'll hear from our Faith Formation Ministry Team about all their preparing for this summer and the autumn ahead.
Social Action Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, July 12th 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 and our Produce Pantry. The ministry team meets quarterly. The link for tonight's meeting is https://zoom.us/j/91568452071.
Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, August 2nd at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/94641179066
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. This will be a virtual meeting at https://zoom.us/j/94641179066.
Faith Formation Ministry Team Meeting
Tuesday, August 9th at 7:00pm
https://zoom.us/j/92199006383
Join us as we plan a whole new season of faith formation experiences that will launch for all ages this fall at Messiah! This group includes Adult Education, Children's Sunday School, Cradle Roll & Nursery and Youth 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.
To view our complete parish calendar, click here.