Notes of Joy December 7th
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Office Hours. Second Sunday of Advent. Worship Volunteers

Joy Lutheran Church
Notes of Joy December 7th
Office Hours

Office Hours

Second Sunday of Advent

Second Sunday of Advent

Sunday December 7th @ 9:30am

This Advent, we enter a season of holy reflection in a series called Toward the Light: Where God’s Story Meets Our Own. Each week we will explore how God is at work in the lives of the people in Scripture—and in our lives as well—through particular pattern of movement: From-Through-To. Our stories are full of moments when God leads us from one way of being or believing, through an experience or season that shapes us, and to a transformed place of hope, courage, or joy.

In this Second Sunday of Advent, we watch Mary, a young woman whose quiet faithfulness prepares her to receive an extraordinary calling from God. When the angel announces that she will bear the Christ child, Mary moves toward a courageous “yes” that changes her life—and the world. Her song, the Magnificat, proclaims God’s justice and mercy with boldness and trust. As we reflect on Mary’s journey, we consider how God meets us in our own faithfulness, invites us through new callings, and leads us toward the courage to step into God’s unfolding story.

For more infomation visit:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uEaW-Osk_V6wORgU570We7I8KJT15Knt/view?usp=sharing

WORSHIP BULLETIN

Worship Volunteers

Sunday December 7th

  • Presiders: Pastor Sean Avery
  • Assisting Minister: Pastor Elsa
  • Liturgist: Pastor Elsa 
  • Children's Message: Pastor Sean
  • Readers: Wyatt J. & Nancy D.
  • Pianist: Kathy H.
  • Communion Assistant: Hanna H. 
  • Altar Care: Jeff J.
  • Acolyte: Jasper S.
  • Cross-bearer: 
  • Gifts-bearer: 
  • Ushers: Jeff J. & Karen J.

Thank you for serving in worship. Your faithfulness and heart for God help create a space where His presence is felt. Our Sundays are truly blessed with servants like you.

Don't Miss These!

Don't Miss These!

Wreath-Making Round 2 — This Sunday After Worship!

Wreath-Making Round 2 — This Sunday After Worship!

Sunday, December 7th , 2025

Good news! For those who were unable to join us last week due to the weather, we’ll be hosting Round 2 of our Wreath-Making Workshop this Sunday right after worship.

Come enjoy a warm, festive time of creativity and fellowship as we make beautiful wreaths together. All materials will be provided, and everyone is welcome—whether you were with us for the first round or couldn’t make it the first time.

We hope to see you there!

Kid's  Closet | December 7th

Kid's Closet | December 7th

Open on the first Sunday of each month 1-3pm.

We are currently in need of boys and girls size 5 (pants and shirts)  Thank you all for your donations and help serving our community in this way, you are a huge part of the success of our ministry. 

 

For more infomation visit:

https://www.joy-lutheran.com/get-connected/pages/outreach-service

Read More | Visit our Website
Advent Midweek Service & Shared Dinner

Advent Midweek Service & Shared Dinner

Join us for Advent Midweek Services—a moment of pause in the middle of a busy and often noisy season. In the glow of candlelight, we’ll gather for sung prayer and thoughtful reflection, creating space to breathe and ponder Jesus drawing near. After worship, share in a simple meal together in community. Give yourself this gift of rest, reflection, and fellowship—right in the heart of the season. Know you are welcome exactly as you are.

Help us warm up the season by brining your favorite cozy casserole to share. From cheesy classics to family favorites, every dish adds to the joy of our Advent gatherings. Sign up to bring a casserole or tasty desssert and join us for good food and company! Salad and bread will be provided.  

For more infomation visit:

https://app.planhero.com/gatherings/21183-advent-midweek-casserole-supper-2025

Sign-up HERE
Knits of Joy  | December 10th

Knits of Joy | December 10th

Meets in the Narthex @ 5:45pm | 2nd Wednesday of each month

Do you enjoy knitting or crocheting? Come be part of a welcoming group that meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month to create cozy cold-weather gear and heartfelt prayer shawls for those in need.

We gather once a month at the church (attendance is flexible!) to share fellowship, lift each other up in prayer, and use our hands to bring comfort and warmth to our community. Whether you're an experienced crafter or just curious, there’s a place for you here.

Contact Laura R. for more information—we’d love to have you join us!

For more infomation visit:

https://joy.elvanto.net/form/71217d1e-1ca5-4e56-8e38-eded9945a446

Contact Laura R.
News and Information

News and Information

 Help Light Up Christmas Eve!

Help Light Up Christmas Eve!

Ice Luminaries

We are adding a little extra sparkle to our outdoor Christmas Eve service — and we need your creativity!

We’re inviting everyone to make and bring ice luminaries to set up in our parking lot to help create a beautiful, glowing winter wonderland.

Ice luminaries are simple, fun, and a great activity for all ages. Make one, make a few — the more the merrier! On Christmas Eve, we’ll place them around the church parking lot and watch as they shine together, reminding us of the light of Christ coming into the world.

Bring your luminaries with you to the service, and our team will help set them out.

Let’s fill the night with light, joy, and community!

For more infomation visit:

https://youtu.be/aTOE1HEg5nc?si=G2fhPk4emgANZrv7

Watch Video
2025 Alaska Synod Advent Devotional

2025 Alaska Synod Advent Devotional

As we enter this season of anticipation and hope, we invite you to journey with us through our Alaska Synod Advent Devotional. 

You can download the devtional by clicking the button below

We encourage every individual and family to participate as we wait together, watch together, and worship together.

For more infomation visit:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ew-wLhzyOgJe01mOjVZ68dsc-6GSEOMm/view?usp=drive_link

Advent Devotional
Alaska Synod Youth Retreat

Alaska Synod Youth Retreat

Friday, January 16, 2026

***UPDATE: HOW YOU CAN HELP: You can support the ELCA Alaska youth groups retreat by donating Alaska Air mileage for a young person from Nome or Ketchikan or beyond to attend.  As little as 10K miles can bring our youth together for play, service, learning, worship and building our Alaskan community and future leaders. Contact Pastor Amanda Van Vliet Snyder at pastoramandaoslc@gmail.com with mileage offers.  Thank you!***

Church youth groups (middle- and high-school)  from across Alaska, you’re invited to come together January 16 - 18 (8 pm Friday through worship Sunday morning) in Eagle River, Alaska, for a time of building friendships, service, play and worship together.  Youth will need to bring a sleeping bag or similar, clothes for two days and nights of indoor and outdoor fun, and swimwear. Registration of $40 will cover our meals, pool entry and other expenses.  (Scholarships may be available.)  

This event is being organized and led by a group of ELCA pastors, deacons and youth leaders. Questions may be directed to Pastor Sean.

FOR REGISTRATION AND DETAILS CLICK "READ MORE"

For more infomation visit:

http://joy-lutheran.com/events/alaska-synod-youth-retreat/2026-01-16

Read More
Group Text Studies

Group Text Studies

We are planning future group learning opportunities at church, and we’d love input from the whole congregation—even if you haven’t participated in a study before. To help us shape offerings that fit the interests, schedules, and needs of our congregation, we’ve created a short survey. It asks about what kinds of topics you’d find meaningful, when you’re most available, and what formats work best for you. The survey also includes an optional question for those who may be interested in joining a small team that meets a few times a year with Pastor Sean to help brainstorm and plan future studies. Whether you’ve attended many group studies or none at all, your feedback is valuable and will help us develop engaging learning opportunities.

For more infomation visit:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf8HI-8snjeALxg9MQnCD87Xi8PhS_1A7KCwn8lByp9QaI4XA/viewform

TAKE THE SURVEY
 We Need Your Photos!

We Need Your Photos!

As we prepare (because it's never too early) for our Annual Ministry Celebration in February, we’re gathering photos from the past year to showcase the amazing moments and memories from our church family!

If you’ve captured pictures from any ministry events, gatherings, or special occasions, please share them with us. 

Deadline:We will take them through December
Submit to: admin@joy-lutheran.com (please include a short note as to what the photo is about)

Let’s celebrate all that God has done through our ministries this year—together!

Memory Cafe

Memory Cafe

A monthly gathering for individual with early to moderate Alzheimer's or dementia and their care partners as well as those who worry about memory problems. 

When: December 12, 2025 (Second Friday of each month)

Time: 10:00-11:00am

Where: Our Redeemer Lutheran Church; 18444 Old Glenn Hwy, Chugiak

For more infomation visit:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZCQZwIvdN1RqCOvklsTC8v3qdA6pAaHM/view?usp=sharing

VIEW FLIER FOR MORE INFORMATION
Regularly Scheduled Events

Regularly Scheduled Events

Sunday School

Sunday School

**Reminder that there is no Sunday school on the 2nd Sunday of ea. month

Ages toddlers through 5th grade are invited to Sunday School after worship in Brause Hall. We use Godly Play - a montessori based curriculum that involves engaging kids in storytelling and lots of "I wonder..." questions that help them explore the mystery of God's presence, listen for God, and authentically respond to God's call in our lives.

*Reminder that Sunday School does not meet on Brunch Sundays (2nd Sunday of each month)*

Confirmation

Confirmation

Confirmation Class for youth in grades 6 and up begins on Sunday, September 7th! Please register using the link below. If you have any questions, reach out to Pastor Sean.

*Reminder that Confirmation Class does not meet on Brunch Sundays (2nd Sunday of each month)*

Holy Grounds

Holy Grounds

Monday's @8:30 am

Holy Grounds is a weekly gathering of high school youth at Jitters Café with Pastor Sean and other adult youth leaders. It’s an opportunity for fellowship, peer support, and faith formation before school hours over beverages at no cost to youth. Please consider supporting this ministry with prayer and donations to cover the cost of beverages. You can donate online via our webpage. 

Holy Grounds follows the ASD calendar, if there is no school on Monday, Holy Grounds does not meet. Please see the EVENTS page for up to date meetings. 

Church Brunch | December 14th

Church Brunch | December 14th

Following worship | 2nd Sunday of each month

Join us right after worship for a laid-back, potluck-style brunch. Bring a dish if you’d like—or just bring yourself! There’ll be plenty of good food and great company. Everyone’s welcome, so come hang out and enjoy some tasty bites with us!

**Please note that there is no Sunday School or Confirmation class on Brunch Sundays

Saturday Work Group

Saturday Work Group

Will be back in January!

We gather on the second Saturday of each month to take care of various tasks around the church. All are welcome to lend a hand—no experience needed! Coffee is ready by 9:00 AM, so come early, pitch in, and enjoy some fellowship.
For more information, please contact Nancy H.

Joy of Reading Book Club

Joy of Reading Book Club

Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month (unless noted)

 Visit our website for information about our book club, including book titles, a full list of dates and locations.

Please join us!

Please contact the office on 907-694-9601 if you would like any more information.

For more infomation visit:

https://www.joy-lutheran.com/pages/fellowship-fun

Read More | Visit our Website
Community Meetings Here at Joy

Community Meetings Here at Joy

Community Meetings that take place here at Joy Lutheran Church. For more information please visit our website.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) CLICK FOR PRINTABLE FLIER

Narcotics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous 

For more infomation visit:

https://www.joy-lutheran.com/get-connected/pages/community-page

Read More | Visit our Website
NAMI | FAMILY-TO-FAMILY

NAMI | FAMILY-TO-FAMILY

Thursdays Oct. 23- Dec. 18

Register today! NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others, and friends of people with mental health conditions. It is a designated evidenced-based program, meaning that research shows that the program significantly improves the coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to a person with a mental health condition.

This will be taught by Kathy H. 

For more information and to register click the REGISTER HERE button below.

For more infomation visit:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1vrzlDVNF1It2SL0TcMdzi-Y0QXVXdCSYRvVY3zhQwW0/viewform?edit_requested=true

REGISTER HERE
Prayer Concerns & Requests

Prayer Concerns & Requests

  • Zoe D. (Kathy Huntington’s niece diagnosed with AML-Acute myeloid leukemia. Prayers for healing, strength, and peace)
  • Judy (Christy Dailey's mom for strength and healing)
  • Gina S. (strength while enduring brain cancer and difficult life decisions)
  • Clarke H. (prayers for healing from back surgery)
  • Terry (Corinne’s son-in-law, for successful cancer removal surgery on his eye)
  • The Hegna Family (as the mourn the passing of Marsha’s brother, Mark)
  • Kaela W. (strength and courage for on-going treatment)
  • Mark S. (revovering from surgery)
  • Alicia R (healing and strength)
  • Layli (Trudi's granddaughter, for good decision making)
  • Dave Mitton (for strength)
  • Kent & Victoria Rush, Wayne’s brother and sister-in-law (Kent is fighting cancer again.)
  • Hegna Family (as they grieve the loss of Jonny).
  • Julie Meyer (facing the uncertainty after suffering a stroke)
  • Justin Dailey (Chris Dailey’s brother, for continued strength and healing)
  • Lai Ming Reimer (as she recovers from a successful kidney transplant)
  • Diana Flaherty (for pain and healing)
  • Lisa Linds family (friend of Kristi Swain)
  • Dick Prien and family (as they mourn the passing of Sharon)
  • Stella Scamman (Kristi Swain’s aunt)
  • Corrine Finnie (healing)
  • For all military members and their families, especially those serving in Alaska and our veterans
Ways to Give

Ways to Give

Online: To sign up visit joy-lutheran.com/give

Cash/Check: You can place cash or check into the offering plate or send by mail.

Text-to-Give: Text "Give" to: (833) 685-5023

Joy Lutheran App: Coming Soon

Fred Meyer Community Rewards: Fred Meyer Community Rewards - Non Profit Organization BV101 Joy is enrolled in Fred Meyer's Community Rewards Program. You can link your Rewards Card to donate to Joy at www.fredmeyer.com/communityrewards. Link your Fred Meyer Rewards Card to Joy Lutheran Church to earn a donation from Fred Meyer. If you do not have a Rewards Card, you can sign up for one at the Customer Service Desk of any Fred Meyer store.

Updated Email Addresses for Joy Lutheran Communication

Updated Email Addresses for Joy Lutheran Communication

We wanted to share a quick update—both Ericka and Pastor Sean have new email addresses!

Pastor Sean: pastorsean@joy-lutheran.com.

Ericka Stotlenberg (Church office): admin@joy-lutheran.com.

Thank you for staying connected and being part of the Joy community!

Blessings,
Pastor Sean & Ericka 

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10111 E. Eagle River Loop Rd.
Eagle River, AK
United States 99577

907.694.9601

admin@joy-lutheran.com