Community

Community Events and Information

Excellence in Parish Ministry Award

“Annually, the Alumni Board of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago confers the seminary’s Distinguished Alumni Awards upon individuals whose commitment to Jesus Christ and partnership in ministry have been exemplary. In this regard, it is my great joy and delight to officially inform you that you have been selected as the recipient of the 2017 Excellence in Parish Ministry Award, which celebrates your work as a rostered leader in a parish setting. I am delighted you were chosen for this honor and look forward to your visit to LSTC in October for the Awards Ceremony.”
– Dr. James Nieman, President
 
Pastor James Lapp recently received this letter and is pleased the seminary has recognized his achievements in ministry. He is looking forward to the Awards Ceremony with joyful anticipation.  Please see the May 2017 Newsletter for more of Pastor Jim’s response.

Dec 18 – Blue Christmas Worship Service, 7:00 pm

St. Stephen’s will be offering a Blue Christmas Service — a time when the “blue” feelings many people experience during the holidays can be acknowledged.

This is not a joyous season for everyone.  Greetings of Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays, non-stop shopping, parties, and other traditional ways of celebrating the holidays often contrast sharply with the feelings of people for whom it’s not “the most wonderful time of the year.”  For families suffering from the recent or impending death of loved ones or in crisis due to illness or any other kind of loss, or for those who suffer from Christmas depression or other mental illness, it can be a very isolated and lonely time.

Together we will offer up our pain, sorrow, anxiety, and loneliness to the One whose birth we commemorate — our Lord Jesus Christ.

Oct 16 – Aebleskiver Breakfast – Child Development Center Fundraiser

Aebleskiver  Breakfast – Child Development Center Fundraiser

 Sunday, October 16

 9:30 and 11:30 seatings

 Tickets available now and at the door. $10 payable to “St. Stephens Child Development Center”

In case you didn’t know:  Æbleskiver (Danish -meaning apple slices) are traditional Danish pancakes in a distinctive shape of a sphere. Somewhat similar in texture to American pancakes crossed with a popover, æbleskiver are solid like a pancake but light and fluffy like a popover. 

 

St. Stephens receives Structures Award for Senior Housing

Dear Members –

We have received two awards related to our work with Mid-Pen Housing and the development of 40 units of low income housing on church land.  May these awards speak loud and clear that the church cares deeply about its community, and proves it by offering its resources as it “walks the talk”.

First, the Silicon Valley Business Journal has awarded us the “Best Structure” award in recognition of the high quality, low-income nature of the new housing being built on our field.  The ceremony was held Sept. 22 in San Jose.

Second, we have received the “Community Assessment Project Community Heroes Award” from the United Way of SC County.  We received it because we are creating tangible change towards their Goal:  That by the year 2020 the housing stock in Santa Cruz County will increase by 1,000 units.  The award will be presented at a Celebration on Nov. 21.

Women’s retreat: 9/30 to 10/2

To ALL Women (men please pass on info):  The Fall Women’s Retreat is a long standing tradition that offers women of all ages a chance to experience spiritual renewal and fellowship in the beauty of God’s creation. This year we will take a deeper look at the life and ministry of Mary, the Mother of Jesus. This weekend event will also include morning and evening worship, campfires and devotions, a variety of recreational activities, a special fall menu, and plenty of time for fellowship.

Speaker: Pastor Sarah Sumner ­Eisenbraun serves as associate and campus pastor at Salem Lutheran Church and School in Glendale CA. Originally from South Dakota, Sarah attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN and then both Luther Seminary in St. Paul and Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley. After being ordained in 2007, Sarah has specialized in ministry with children, youth, and families. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys time with her husband and two children and also plays roller derby with the North Hollywood Rolling Ravens. She is excited to be returning to Mt. Cross for the Fall Women’s Retreat!

  • General Registration: ends September 22nd, 2016 Weekend Guest: $150.00 (Includes lodging, 4 meals, snacks, and all programming)
  • Saturday Only: $100.00 (Includes lunch & dinner)
  • Late Registration: September 23-­30 Weekend Guest: $175.00(Includes lodging, 4 meals, snacks, and all programming)
  • Saturday Only: $115.00 (Includes lunch & dinner)
  • Guest Accommodations: Lodging accommodations are on a first­ come­ first ­serve basis. Those registering early will have the opportunity to stay in one of our two lodge facilities, which includes bed linens. Once the lodge spaces have been filled, remaining guests will be housed in our cabin facilities. Cabin guests will need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow, and towels.

Special Music: TBA

Call Leslie for more info 476-4700