In This Issue
September 2026
Page 1 · A Season of Renewal
Welcome Back to Fall
“I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” —Isaiah 43:19
Page 2 · Vice Pastor’s Message
Back to Fall Musings
Pastor Peggy welcomes everyone back to fall routines starting September 13, including two Sunday worship services, Blessing of the Backpackers, Council installation, Choir rehearsal, Sunday School, and Adult Forum.
Page 3 · Worship Notes
Seasonal Worship Booklets to Replace Weekly Bulletins
Starting September 13, the church will transition to reusable seasonal worship booklets paired with weekly inserts to reduce paper waste and administrative workload.
Page 4 · From Council
Shaping New Beginnings
Council President Heather Lerch invites members to share feedback for the Ministry Site Profile as part of the pastoral call process, alongside updates on council leadership and committee assignments.
Page 5 · Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The Power of the Pen
The DEI Committee highlights Maya Angelou’s words on diversity and self-worth, alongside congregation updates including scholarship thanks, community theater news, and OWLS’ 50+ anniversary celebration.
Page 6 · Property Committee
Property Report
Steve Cathcart reports on property maintenance, including kitchen stove restoration, transition to key cards, beautification efforts, and upcoming installation of required fire doors.
Page 7 · Fellowship & Congregation Care
Exciting News From FCC!
Fellowship & Congregation Care shares September activities including Lunch Around the World and an Ice Cream Social, alongside ongoing ministries like OWLS, Tea & Talk, and Stephen Ministry.
Page 8 · Fellowship & Congregation Care
Upcoming Activities
Explore planned events for the year, including returning traditions like the Walnut Street Theater trip and Palm Sunday Breakfast, plus new initiatives like crafts for shut-ins, a Chili Cook-off, and Book Club.
Page 9 · Adult Education
Monday Morning Bible Study Resumes in September
The virtual Monday Morning Bible Study led by Rev. Dr. Richard Herman resumes September 14 on Zoom to prepare hearts and minds for Sunday Scripture texts.
Page 10 · Around the Synod & Community
Ways to Get Involved
Troop 4042 updates on community service projects, plus opportunities to participate in the upcoming Red Cross Blood Drive and LSMNJ’s Feet in the Street Fun Walk/Run.
Page 11 · Around the Synod & Community
Walk, Give, Gather
Join the 12th Annual Rally for Cross Roads, support Family Promise at Hops Against Homelessness, and reflect on peace and remembrance for the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
Page 12 · Save the Date & The ELCA
September Dates, October Preview & Birthdays
Check upcoming September and October calendar dates, celebrate September birthdays, and learn more about the ELCA’s wider mission.
Worship With Us
Summer Schedule — one service at 9:30 a.m. through September 6.
Fall Schedule Returns Sept. 13 — Spoken Liturgy at 8:30 a.m. & Full Liturgy at 10:30 a.m.
318 Chester Avenue, Moorestown, NJ · stmatthew-lutheran.org