Pilgrim Blog

Stained Glass Windows and Duluth History

2012-01-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

Pilgrim Congregational Church is fortunate to have some of the most beautiful stained glass windows in the Northland. On Sunday, February 5, at 2:00 p.m., the church will host the premiere showing of a 30 minute documentary about the history related to these windows and the benefactors who commissioned them. The descendants of several of the benefactors will be present as well as the film's producer, Jack Salmela. The church will be open for tours that afternoon as well. There is no charge for the premiere showing; copies of the video will be available for purchase for $15.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. HOLIDAY EVENTS

2012-01-13T06:45:00.000-08:00

Community Events

Saturday, January 14
Rejoice, Reclaim, Renew Community
Featuring Readings from Dr. King by Central/Denfeld students, Reflections from Carl Crawford
Music from Voices of Vision with Minister Gabe Green
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth, 835 College St.
Soup, Bread, and Birthday Cake Served at 6 PM
Program starts at 6:30 PM

Sunday January 15
Christ Temple Victory Center - 330 N. 59th Ave West -Time: 6:00 PM
Featured Speaker: Rev. Donald G. Bryant, Jr.
Lecturer at Luther Seminary and 2011 National Black MBA Assoc. Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Monday January 16
Free Community Breakfast
Holy Family Catholic Church - 2430 W. Third St.
Time 7:00 AM
Featured Speaker: Nontombi Naomi Tutu, Human rights activist & daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa

March (11:00 AM) and Rally (11:45 AM)
March from Washington Center at 11 AM to Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center - 11:45 AM
Featured Speaker: Dr. Janet Haynes, University of Minnesota-Duluth

Labor Movie Night (6:00 PM)
At the River I Stand… Duluth Labor Temple - Wellstone Hall, 2002 London Road

* FOOD DRIVE - At these events, please bring a non-perishable food item to address the needs that exist in our community.

Christmas Eve Worship

2011-12-22T09:31:00.001-08:00

Pilgrim will host two Christmas Eve worship services, one at 5:00 p.m. and one at 10:00 p.m. Each service will include special music, Scripture readings, carols and candlelight. There is a social hour at 9:00 p.m. childcare will be available at both services.

There will be no worship service on Sunday morning, December 25.

Pilgrim Holiday Broadcasts

2011-12-22T06:22:00.000-08:00

Enjoy broadcasts from Pilgrim this holiday season. All broadcasts are on cable channel 7:

A Christmas Eve Service(videoed Christmas Eve 2010)
Friday, December 23 Noon
Saturday, December 24 2:00 and 6:00 pm
Sunday, December 25 2:00 and 6:00 pm

A Holiday Special (Pilgrim music from this past year)
Tuesday, December 20 2:00, 8:00 and 11:00 pm
Wednesday, December 21 5:00 and 8:00 am

La Fiesta de la Posada (A jazz choral pageant)
Wednesday, December 28, 3:30-4:30 and 8:00-9:00pm
Thursday, December 29, 7:00-8:00 am

All broadcasts are on PACT TV, channel 7 on cable TV

La Fiesta de la Posada

2011-12-02T07:15:00.000-08:00

On December 18 Pilgrim's worship service will include a performance of Dave Brubeck's Christmas Cantata, "La Fiesta de La Posada." This jazz work is based on the Spanish/Latin American tradition of searching for the child Jesus in Bethlehem. There will be a mariachi orchestra, guest musicians, children from the Lake Superior Youth Chorus, all conducted by Russell Gloyd, Brubeck's personal friend. Gloyd has conducted performances of this work all over the United States and overseas.

Pilgrims will go caroling in the afternoon. Meet at the church at 3:45 p.m. There will be a light supper served after carolling.

Pilgrim to Host One Voice Mixed Chorus November 18

2011-11-14T09:08:00.000-08:00

On Friday evening, November 18, at 7:30 p.m., Pilgrim will host Brave Souls and Dreamers, a concert by One Voice Mixed Chorus of the Twin Cities. One Voice is a 90 member GLBT choir known throughout Minnesota for their diverse music and community outreach.

The concert is a fund raising effort by Duluth United for All Families. Proceeds will be used in the campaign against the marriage amendment limiting marriage to straight couples. Tickets are $15 in advance and may be ordered through www.MnUnited.org or $20 at the door.

Pilgrim is an Open and Affirming congregation, the birthplace of PFLAG in Duluth, a partner in the Opening our Hearts, Opening our Doors conferences and a member of Standing on the Side of Love.

Pilgrim Participating in Mission 1, A National UCC Effort

2011-11-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

Nov. 1-11, 2011... ONE UNITED CHURCH on a shared mission for 11 powerful days to feed the hungry and confront food-related injustice. This is MISSION: 1

  • In 11 days, the United Church of Christ will collect more than 1 MILLION ITEMS OF HEALTHY FOOD and other household items for local food banks and outreach services.

  • In 11 days, the United Church of Christ will make an extra-special push to gather
online contributions of more than $111,111 DOLLARS for Neighbors in Need food-related ministries, offerings that will be shared for hunger-action purposes with agencies of justice and compassion throughout the United States; and $111,111 for East Africa famine-related ministries.

  • In 11 days, the United Church of Christ will offer more than 11,111 LETTERS to Congress asking our government to reform U.S. foreign assistance in a way that more effectively benefits hungry and poor people worldwide, helping to provide a major final push to Bread for the World's 2011 "Offering of Letters" campaign.

Pilgrim members and friends are bringing grocery bags with 11 items of food for local food shelves; some are contributing $11 or multiples thereof for Neighbors in Need hunger related programs; children are collecting $1.11 to feed the hungry; and after worship on November 6 members and friends will write letters to legislators. We asked 11 members of the congregation to fast one day during this appeal--and 17 members volunteered! It's 11 powerful days of mission.

Godly Gourmet Sandwiches

2011-10-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

Give the cook a break and pick up Godly Gourmet meals this Friday, October 28.
Sandwiches are $10 and soup $5. Coleslaw and complementary cookies included. Pre order by calling 728-1121 before 7:00 p.m. on Thursday.

Sandwiches:
Salmon rollups
Pulled Pork with Mango Salsa and Red Cabbage
Veggies with goat cheese and avocado-the Californian

Soup:
Pumpkin and broccoli chowder
(vegetarian)
Curried Cauliflower and Apple with Cilantro Cream

Kids Sandwich: (10 and under)
Grilled Ham & Cheese Waffle ($3.00)

Godly Gourmet Sandwiches

2011-10-18T07:54:00.000-07:00

Give the cook a break and bring home Godly Gourmet sandwiches Friday, October 21. The menu is:

Sandwiches:
Brisket with pickled green tomato and bleu cheese dressing
Italian Monte Cristo Chicken with pesto and marinara sauce
Cuban Style Tofu with mixed olive pesto and sprouts

Soup:
Chilled peach w/ goat cheese (vegetarian)
Creamy Red Pepper

Kid’s Sandwich : (10 and under)
Apple Monte Cristo on Raisin Bread

Godly Gourmet Sandwiches

2011-10-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

Give the cook a break and bring home Godly Gourmet sandwiches Friday, October 14. The menu is:
Sandwiches:
Shrimp Caesar Wrap
Italian Cheese Steak
Grilled Zucchini Wrap

Soup:
Avocado Bisque – vegetarian
Corn Chowder

Bonus – complementary soup sample Jamaican Curried Shrimp and Mango

Kid’s Sandwich: (10 and under)
Waffle pizza
To order call 728-1121 by Thursday at 7 pm.

Especially for Seekers and Visitors

2011-10-04T13:23:00.000-07:00

If you have questions about Pilgrim Congregational Church, or have never toured the building, or are curious about the United Church of Christ, or just want to know more about us, this Sunday and next just might be of interest. On October 9 and 16, following the worship service and coffee hour, Charlotte Frantz, minister of Pilgrim and several Pilgrim members will host an orientation in the Parlor. This is a great time to get to know a little more about the church, ask whatever questions are on your mind, and get to know others who are less than familiar with the congregation. Conversation will begin about 11:20 and conclude about 12:15.

Pilgrim Celebrates World Communion Sunday

2011-09-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

On October 2, Pilgrim Congregational Church will celebrate World Communion Sunday with a guest speaker from the United Church of Christ from the Philippines, Dr. Eleazar Fernandez. Fernandez is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ in the Philippines. He earned his M.Div. from Union Theological Seminary in the Philippines, his Th.M. from Princeton Theological Seminary, and his Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. He is the author of Reimagining the Human: Theological Anthropology in Response to Systemic Evil.
For some years, the Minnesota Conference to which Pilgrim belongs has had a partnership with the UCCP-Southeast Mindaneo Jurisdiction. Dr. Fernandez helped build this relationship and will talk about it at Pilgrim. In addition to preaching at the 10:00 worship service, he will entertain questions and answers during an adult education forum beginning at 11:20.

Family Financial Planning Seminars

2011-09-19T09:26:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim Church will offer two September seminars on the basics of estate planning, charitable giving, and, successful family financial planning. This is a topic for families that are decades away from retiring, as well as those who are near, or have retired. The seminars are planned to cut across age groups and provide value to all adults.

The first seminar will be on estate planning, and the second seminar will examine the range of applicable financial tools, how to efficiently use those tools, how to select your advisors, and finally, how to become successful through a disciplined approach.

The presenters, Greg Toscano and Aaron Bransky, are highly respected professionals and are very seasoned seminar presenters.

Pilgrim Programs Begin September 11

2011-09-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim's fall programs get underway September 11. There are Sunday school classes for children ages 4-8th grade; a Wednesday evening youth program for students in middle school and high school held at Peace United Church of Christ; 2nd Hour discussions and learning opportunities following worship on Sundays; and a host of midweek gatherings and groups which are open to Pilgrim friends as well as members. Check out the pages of our website to learn more about our events and activities.

September 3 Worship

2011-08-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend is sometimes a "low" Sunday in terms of church attendance, but Pilgrim is expecting guests for this service. Chester Park United Methodist Church and United Baptist Christian Church will worship with Pilgrim in Pilgrim's sanctuary. The service is at Pilgrim's regular time, 10:00 a.m. The service includes the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Pilgrim practices open communion, meaning that everyone is invited to participate, regardless of age or church affiliation. The sanctuary is handicap accessible and hearing aids are available. Child care is available for children up through 2nd grade. The three congregation worshipped together Memorial Day weekend and the Sunday prior to the 4th of July.

Turkeys Softball Update

2011-08-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

July 26 Turkeys vs. Our Savior
This one was a mismatch from the start. We put up 13 runs in two innings and the ump asks that we only bat around our order once and then let them bat (that means that regardless of how many outs we had, we could only send 8 batters to the plate per inning). We agree with the ump as this one has the potential to turn into a football score. John Fochs loses his hat rounding 2nd, the ump calls time out so John can dust off his hat--the comment from the other team was “Its not what you do, its how you look”. Some old geezer from Our Savior finally connects with one for a home run and they score some runs. We didn’t take our ups the last inning—we just let them 6 outs instead of 3. Turkeys rough ‘em up 19-6.
Kerry Hanlon, Turkeys Manager

The Turkeys begin playoffs on August 16, come out and cheer the team at UMD Field 1! Please call the church office for the time of the game.

Jesse Eschbach. Guest Organist, August 7

2011-07-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

On Sunday morning, August 7th, Dr. Jesse Eschbach will be the guest organist at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 2310 E. 4th Street, Duluth, at the 10:00 am worship service.
Dr. Eschbach and Dr. Norma Stevlingson served as co-consultants when Pilgrim’s Jaeckel organ, Op. 11, was designed and built. Since that time, Pilgrim’s organ has been featured on programs such as MPR’s Pipe Dreams. He is a graduate of Indiana University and the University of Michigan where he was a student of Robert Glasgow. He completed his formal education during a five-year residency in Paris as a student of Marie-Claire Alain. Since 1986, Eschbach has served on the faculty at the University of North Texas as the full-time Professor of Organ.

The organ prelude at the beginning of the worship service will begin at 9:45.

Worship on the Church Lawn

2011-07-19T04:19:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, July 24, Pilgrim's worship service will be held on the front lawn! There will be chairs set up, but feel free to bring your own lawn chair if you like. Stay for a potluck meal afterwards! Dress casually. Fun, convenient, and an easy way to let the neighborhood know what goes on at Pilgrim. The service will be at the usual time--10:00 a.m.

Vacation Bible School

2011-07-07T12:39:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim Congregational Church is offering Vacation Bible School in conjunction with Peace United Church of Christ, located at 1111 N 11th Ave E. VBS will be held July 25-29 from 9:00 until Noon for children ages 4 through 5th grade. This VBS is filled with rocking music, energy packed games, stellar crafts and snacks, and amazing bible stories that will help kids learn more about GOD. Middle school and high school students help guide classes through the various adult-led activities. It’s a great mid-summer week of fun! Cost is $20 per child or a max of $60 per family. Registration forms are available from Pilgrim or Peace.

Community Worship at Chester Bowl

2011-06-27T11:01:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, July 3rd, Pilgrim's morning worship service will be held at Chester Bowl at 10:30 a.m. This community worship service is sponsored by Pilgrim and five other congregations. Bring your own blanket or lawn chair. The park is available until 3:00 p.m. for play, hiking, and picnicking--so feel free to bring your grill, cooler and lunch as well. The service will include readings from American history and music appropriate to the 4th of July holiday. Jim Soderberg and Liz Olson, both of Churches United in Ministry, will talk about life at the intersection of religious faith and civic commitment. The morning offering will go to Churches United in Ministry for their on-going work here in Duluth.
Chester Bowl is located in Chester Park, 1801 E Skyline Parkway, Duluth, Minnesota

Rummage Sale to Benefit Common Hope Mission Trip

2011-06-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

Next summer, a team of Pilgrims will go to Guatemala to volunteer with Common Hope, a community development agency based in Antigua, Guatemala. Fund raising efforts are underway and include a rummage sale to be held Saturday, June 25, from 8:00-2:00.

Guest Preacher this Sunday

2011-06-13T08:40:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, June 19, Dr. Robert Craig will preach on the text from Matthew, "Love your enemies" and will lead a 2nd hour discussion on this difficult saying from Jesus. Bob received a Masters of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary and followed a calling to teach. He received his Ph.D. from Columbia University. He spent five years in Latin America at a time when liberation theology was emerging. He co-authored Protestantism and Liberalism in Latin America in 1985 and a decade later, published Religion and Radical Politics. A pacifist at heart, a Calvinist by tradition and training, Craig has much to say about these radical words from Jesus. Most recently, Dr. Craig served as Chair of the Department of History, Politics and Culture at the College of St. Scholastica. After retiring, he taught in Slovakia and China.

Pilgrim Turkeys

2011-06-06T08:40:00.001-07:00

The Pilgrim Turkeys play softball on Tuesday evenings at UMD field 1. Honigman continues to be the strong arm pitcher and the senior member of the squad. Players welcome--this is a mixed league which means the team includes men and women, teens, adults and seniors. And if you don't play, come out to cheer. The Turkeys are out to defend their title as one of the "winningest church teams!"
Schedule
June 7 - 7:00 pm
June 14 - 6:00 pm
June 28 - 8:00 pm
July 5 - 6:00 pm
July 12 - 7:00 pm
July 19 - 7:00 pm
July 26 - 8:00 pm
Playoffs will begin on August 2.

Graduate Recognition and School's Out--June 5

2011-05-30T07:09:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, June 5th, Pilgrim will recognize graduates and celebrate the end of the school year. Children and youth will help with service leadership. Claire Hillmeyer, an active member of Pilgrim and senior at Central High School will speak during the service. A picnic meal will be served following worship. Come celebrate the end of the academic year! 10:00 worship and 11:20 lunch.

Annual Book Sale June 4

2011-05-30T07:05:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim hosts a large used book sale every year--it's a great way to stock up on summer reading material. Hardbacks, paperbacks, children's books, fiction and non-fiction--take your pick! 9:00-4:00, Saturday, June 4th.

Worship at United Baptist Christian Church May 29

2011-05-26T04:56:00.000-07:00

On May 29, Pilgrim will join three other congregations for a joint worship service. This service will be held at 10:30 a.m. at United Baptist Christian Church, 830 E. 1st Street, Duluth, MN. (across the street from the emergency entrance to St. Luke's Hospital.) United Baptist Christian Church is rooted in the American Baptist and Christian Church--Disciples of Christ traditions. Worship will be led by the Rev. Tab Baumgartner, minister at United Baptist Christian.

Other congregations involved in this joint service include Chester Park United Methodist Church and Hope United Methodist Church. There will be NO Sunday morning worship service at Pilgrim.

Pilgrim Holy Week and Easter Observances

2011-04-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

Maundy Thursday evening worship at 7:00 based on Jesus' teachings the last night of his life.

Good Friday evening worship at 7:30 commemorates Jesus' suffering and death as recounted in the Gospel of Matthew. This service will be held at Peace United Church of Christ, located at the intersection of 11th Street and 11th Avenue. The combined choir and readers are from Peace UCC, Glen Avon Presbyterian, and Pilgrim Congregational UCC.

Saturday morning Easter party, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Easter egg hunt, photos with the Easter Bunny, crafts, games--come and have some holiday fun at Pilgrim.

Easter Sunday worship at 10:00 a.m. with continental breakfast at 9:00. Brass musicians from UMD, Pilgrim Choir and Bellissimo Handbell Choir. Enjoy the triumphant, joyful sounds of Easter!

Godly Gourmet Meals-April 15

2011-04-12T05:53:00.000-07:00

Give the cook a break and bring home Godly Gourmet sandwiches on April 15. The Menu for Friday, April 15 is:

Sandwiches

Philly Cheese Steak with Grilled Onions, green peppers, mushrooms and Provolone cheese.

Toasted chicken sandwich with caramelized onions and apples and smoked Gouda cheese.

Vegetarian Primavera featuring artichokes, red onions, roasted peppers, arugula with Parmesan red pepper sauce.

Soup

Carrot Ginger Soup (Vegetarian)

Kid's Sandwiches

Pepperoni and Cheese Waffle Pizza or

Cheesy Roll-Up

Call 728-8996 before 7 pm Thursday to place your order and pick up your meal between 4:30 and 6:30 on Friday. Or walk in Friday and order available sandwiches.

Godly Gourmet Meals--April 8 and 15

2011-04-01T07:16:00.000-07:00

Give the cook a break and bring home Godly Gourmet sandwiches on April 8 and April 15. The Menu for Friday, April 8 is:

Sandwiches: Smoked Beef Brisket on rye with coleslaw and Russian Dressing Sante Fe Turkey in citrus marinade and southwest spiced cream cheess Grilled Portabella Mushrooms with tomato, pesto and mozzarella cheese

Soup: Cream on Broccoli

Kid's Sandwiches: Pepperoni and Cheese Waffle Pizza Cheesy Roll up

Prices: Sandwiches $10, Soup $5, Kid's Sandwiches $3

Call 728-8996 before 7 pm Thursday to place your order and pick up your meal between 4:30 and 6:30 on Friday. Or walk in Friday and order available sandwiches.

Lenten Oppoturnities at Pilgrim

2011-03-07T12:54:00.000-08:00

The season of Lent, the six weeks prior to Easter, begins on March 9. Pilgrim will observe the beginning of Lent with a Soup and Sandwich meal beginning at 5:30 and a worship service beginning at 7:00.

Many members of the congregation are pariticpating in a congregational wide Lenten study of Joan Chittister's book, Wisdom Distilled from the Daily. In this book, Chittister interprets the ancient Rule of Benedict for the twenty-first century. The book is written to help "ordinary people live extraordinary lives."
Our minister, Charlotte Frantz, has written a companion study guide to be used daily during the season of Lent. The study guide offers the opportunity to reflect on and practice spiritual practices as outlined in the book.

In addition, seminarian Jackie Falk will be offering a Lenten study of Matthew's Gospel on Thursday evenings during Lent. This study group will meet from 5:30-7:15, March 10, 17, 24 and 31 and April 14.

Winter Fun

2011-01-31T12:53:00.000-08:00

Get out and enjoy the winter with other Pilgrims!

Saturday, February 5 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Hartley Nature Center

Get out for a snowshoe hike, check out the cross country skiing, or sit inside and enjoy board games and hot chocolate! This winter outing is for all ages! No cost other than equipment rental from Hartley.

Cracking the Shell of Whiteness

2011-01-15T06:06:00.000-08:00

Pilgrim Congregational Church and Peace United Church of Christ are offering the course, Cracking the Shell of Whiteness on Monday evenings, beginning January 24. The class will meet at 6:00 p.m. at Pilgrim. Facilitators are Doug Bowen Bailey and Ellen O'Neill. This is a curriculum designed to help "white" folk better understand the ways in which American society is structured to encourage their participation and success. Pre-registration through either church office is requested: 724-8503 or 724-3637. Or email us to express your interest. A donation of $50 is suggested, but no one will be turned away.

Community Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend Events

2011-01-10T08:40:00.001-08:00

Pilgrim Congregational Church has a long tradition of supporting the civil rights movement and now the work of dismantling racism that still divides our society. Members and friends of Pilgrim will participate in community events this coming weekend:

Friday January 15
Rejoice, Reclaim, Renew Community
Featuring Readings from Dr. King by Central/Denfeld students, Reflections from Dr. Mahmoud El Kati
Music from Voices of Vision with Minister Gabe Green
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth, 835 College St.
Soup, Bread, and Birthday Cake Served at 6 PM
Program starts at 6:30 PM

Sunday January 16
Ecumenical Worship Service
St. Mark AME Church 530 N. 5th Ave East
4:00 PM

Monday January 17
Free Community Breakfast
First United Methodist Church 230 E. Skyline Parkway 7 AM
Featured Speaker: Cory Booker, Mayor of Newark, NJ

March (11am) and Rally (11:45am)
March starts from Washington Center at 11 AM
Featured Speaker: Robin Washington, editor of the Duluth News Tribute and
president of the African American Men's Group
For more details go to http://www.mlk-duluth.org/

Service Learning in Guatemala

2011-01-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

Pilgrims are learning about life in Guatemala through Common Hope. Common Hope (see http://www.commonhope.org/) is a community development agency with headquarters in Antigua, Guatemala and St. Paul, Minnesota. Common Hope's primary goal is to help Guatemalan children obtain education. Some Pilgrim sponsor a child and correspond with a specific child. Some Pilgrims have traveled to Guatemala for a week of service learning--they have built homes, assisted in afterschool programs, accompanied social workers on home visits, and taken the opportunity to enjoy the sights and culture of this southern neighbor.

Spanish language is helpful, but NOT required for this mission trip. Trips are “hands –on” volunteer opportunities. Persons with specialized skills or interests can often be assigned to areas of their expertise. Dentists and dental hygenists are particularly needed in this part of the world.

If you are interested in being part of such a trip, contact the church office by phone or email. Trips are open to non-members as well as members of the congregation. Cost for food, lodging and cultural activities is $1000/week plus airfare. Traditionally, trip participants do some group fund raising to defray expenses.

Christmas Eve Service

2010-12-22T09:58:00.000-08:00

Take a deep breath and pause this Christmas Eve. Pilgrim’s Christmas Eve service is at 10:00 pm. Music by the Pilgrim Choir, Bellissimo, soloists and traditional carols sung by the congregation.
Fellowship and social hour at 9:00 pm.

Broadcast of Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

2010-12-18T04:50:00.001-08:00

This weekend PACT television is broadcasting the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service hosted by Pilgrim. The service was held the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and included music, readings, and reflections on giving thanks from many different religious traditions. The broadcast will be Saturday, December 18 at 2:00 pm and again at 6:30 p.m and Sunday, December 19 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Carolling Party December 19 4:00-6:00

2010-12-16T08:50:00.000-08:00

Remember all those Christmas carols you love to sing? Bring your children, your neighbors and anyone else who might enjoy the simple pleasure of singing carols. We'll visit a few homes where Pilgrim members live and will gather back at the church for pizza afterwards. Don't worry about whether you can carry a tune--just come and join the fun!

We've Got Good News--a Multi Generational Retelling of the Christmas Story

2010-12-14T08:37:00.000-08:00

There's no story quite like the Christmas story, and there's something poignant and beautiful about a community retelling it together. On Sunday, December 19, Pilgrim children, youth and adults will retell the story, complete with angels wearing gold tinsel halos, young shepherds, Mary, Joseph, the inkeeper, the magi, and Herod. The Pilgrim Percussion ensemble will drum, the choir will sing, and young musicians will share their talents. Come for a festive, fun, nostalgic, wonderful retelling of the Christmas story, 10:00 a.m.

Pilgirm e news December 10 2010

2010-12-10T10:59:00.000-08:00

Winter storm watch for tonight! Here's hoping we're all plowed out by Sunday.

The Achterhoff/Grant household is hosting a gathering for Pilgrim families late Saturday afternoon before a visit to Bentleyville. Bundle up those little ones!

Warm your heart Sunday-- come to Pilgrim for a wonderful service of Advent and Christmas music, 10:00 Sunday. Bellissimo will play music they have prepared for the season and the Pilgrim Choir will sing Buxtehude's Advent Cantata, Rejoice, Beloved Christians.

Have you checked us out on Facebook? Yes, we have a page--search for Pilgrim Congregational Church, Duluth. Become a fan and get event notices from us.

During the 2nd hour this Sunday. Jim Drake will be teaching how to use social networks like Facebook as a communication tool. If you have grandchildren, you might enjoy surprising them with a newly acquired skill!

Women's book group meets Monday evening at 6:30 p.m.

This Season of Rejoicing

2010-12-08T07:45:00.000-08:00

Sunday's worship at Pilgrim will be led by the Pilgrim Choir and Bellissimo, our handbell choir. Bring a friend and enjoy this hour of Advent/Christmas music, Sunday morning, 10:00 a.m.

from Pilgrim e news December 4 2010

2010-12-04T07:16:00.000-08:00

Jackie Falk is preaching December 5--her text is Matthew 1:1-17. Ever wonder why Matthew begins with the long list of Jesus' ancestors? In Matthew's gospel, Joseph takes center stage as Jesus' earthly parent. Jackie is a member of Pilgrim and student at United Theological Seminary in the Twin Cities.

Following worship, we'll be gathering downstairs for a traditional winter lunch of tomato soup and toasted cheese sandwiches--and the opportunity to make wreaths, evergreen swags, Christmas ornaments, wrapping paper, and other such preparations for the Christmas season.

Children and youth are beginning their preparations for worship on December 19th. Parents: Please note that Sunday school classes will be in session until 11:30 both this Sunday and next. Enjoy a cup of coffee and time to take a breath while waiting to pick up your kids!

Advent Worship and Workshop December 5

2010-11-29T08:51:00.000-08:00

Advent Workshop
December 5 following worship
Join the festivities, as we celebrate the Advent Season together
Enjoy a lunch of Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Make a wreath out of fresh greens to hang on your door or decorate your table.
Design your own Christmas cards or gift bags
Children can create Seasonal Decorations
Decorate Gingerbread Cookies
Fun for all ages!

Pilgrim e news November 27 2010

2010-11-27T06:51:00.000-08:00

Welcome Advent! The Hanging of the Greens service is Sunday at 10:00. We have fun welcoming the holiday season as the Deacons dress up the sanctuary during worship. Child care for children up through 2nd grade. Older children can participate in the service and even help with the service if they like.

We'll baptize Amity Hanlon and welcome her into our community. The congregation will honor her with gifts for infants at Safehaven--a shelter for women and children experiencing domestic violence. Gently used infant and toddler clothing, toys, and board books are great gifts as well.

Order your poinsettia during the coffee hour. Plants that retail at Engwalls for $25 can be ordered at Pilgrim for $20. In addition to your savings, the church receives $10 of each sale. Donate a plant to Pilgrim to beautify the sanctuary, or order a plant for your own use at home--or as a gift for someone. Orders are delivered to the church on Friday and can be picked up next Sunday.

Many thanks to all who volunteered this past week. We had eight volunteers at Damiano's; plenty of soup on Tuesday; and a great meal at Harmony House on Wednesday.

Enjoy the snow. Charlotte

Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

2010-11-23T07:17:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, November 23, 7:00 pm
Pilgrim is hosting the annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service. Members and friends including St. Paul’s Episcopal, Unitarian Universalist Church of Duluth, First United Methodist Church, Glen Avon Presbyterian Church, Twin Ports Islamic Center, Peace UCC, and Temple Israel. Come for a service of praise and thanksgiving. Rabbi David Steinberg will speak.

Pilgrim Treasure Hunt

2010-11-13T06:40:00.000-08:00

How do you make a decision about giving to Pilgrim? That's the Pilgrim Treasure Hunt question this week.
Giving to others, or giving to support the work of an organization in which I believe, helps me experience life's interconnections. It helps weave me into my place in the larger fabric of life and the world. For me, that sense of connection is part of my spiritual life.
Tithing is a time honored way of thinking about how and where I give. I try to give 5% of my income back to the church I serve in regular pledges and special gifts for the work of the larger church. The other 5% is divided between organizations that do charitable work and help for individuals. In my computer accounting program at home, I have a category simply labelled "good causes." They aren't recognized as tax deductible by the IRS, but they are my own private charitable giving. Each year I check at tax time to see that my church contributions, gifts to other charities and "good cause" entries add up to 10% of my gross income. Most years, I'm pretty close. Rev. Charlotte Frantz

Pilgrim Treasure Hunt

2010-11-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

What is your most treasured dream for Pilgrim?

My treasured dream is to restore Pilgrim staff salaries to what they were in the first half of 2010. Not one of our staff has cut his or her work load. Each staff person is hard working and dedicated to Pilgrim!

What's the next step towards your dream?

Increased giving by the congregation.

Julie Johnson

Pilgrim Treasure Hunt

2010-10-28T20:18:00.000-07:00

Whom, at Pilgrim, do you treasure?

I treasure Hazel Niss and Gertrude Jacobson. Hazel was always there, asking how things were going and offering bits of wisdom with lots of humor. Raising a family (also with twins), she was certainly able to put things in perspective for me! Gertrude's beautiful smile and loving kindness greets us each Sunday. Her healthy, active lifestyle is an inspiration to us all. I feel very fortunate that these two women have been in my life at Pilgrim! Sarah Beaster

Gourmet Sandwiches Available THIS Friday

2010-10-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

Check out our Friday Gourmet meals! They're heavenly! Menu for Friday, October 29th

Sandwiches
Shredded Beef with Tomato Relish

Chicken Caesar Club Salad

Grilled Portabella with Pesto Mayonnaise

Soup
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Florentine

Kid's Sandwiches
Peanut Butter Fruit Roll Up
Pepperoni and Cheese Waffle
Pizza Cheesy Roll up
Call 218-728-8996 no later than Thursday at 7:00 p.m. to order your meal; pick up your order on Friday between 5:00 and 7:00. (Orders placed on Friday are limited to supplies on hand.)Prices: Soup and whole sandwich with home-style coleslaw, pickle, and complimentary dessert, $15.00 (two orders for $29.00.)Sandwich with coleslaw and pickle, $10.00Bowl of soup, $5.00Kid's Sandwich, $3.00.

A Hogwarts Halloween

2010-10-25T06:26:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 31---6:00-8:00 pm
Come, visit Diagon Alley of the town of Hogsmeade-wizards, witches, house elves, and costumed guests of all ages welcome (but no dementors, please-non-violent costumes only). Activities will be appropriate for all ages-especially children from Preschool to Grade 6

What do you treasure about Pilgrim?

2010-10-20T11:23:00.000-07:00

". . .that we are an Open and Affirming church and that we believe God is still speaking. We don't have a rigid creed here. Eleanor and I came to Pilgrim in the late 1950's because we wanted a church with freedom of thought. There are a lot of good people here doing a lot of good things. Almost everyone is active in some way. It's hard to believe I've lived 2/3 of my life here--I sometimes still feel like the new kid on the block! It's wonderful! It's not the building that makes the church, though it helps. It's the people here who count. " Charlie Nichol

Gourmet Sandwiches Avaialble THIS Friday

2010-10-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Check out our Friday Gourmet meals! They're heavenly! Menu for Friday, October 22nd

Sandwiches

Philly Cheese Steak with Grilled Onions and Green Peppers

Chicken with Marinara Sauce and Parmesan

Roasted Pepper with Goat Cheese

Soup

Southwest Chowder

Kid's Sandwiches

Peanut Butter Fruit Roll Up

Pepperoni and Cheese Waffle

Pizza Cheesy Roll up

Call 218-728-8996 no later than Thursday at 7:00 p.m. to order your meal; pick up your order on Friday between 5:00 and 7:00. (Orders placed on Friday are limited to supplies on hand.)Prices: Soup and whole sandwich with home-style coleslaw, pickle, and complimentary dessert, $15.00 (two orders for $29.00.)Sandwich with coleslaw and pickle, $10.00Bowl of soup, $5.00Kid's Sandwich, $3.00

Gourmet Sendwiches Available THIS Friday

2010-10-12T06:06:00.000-07:00

Check out our Friday Gourmet meals! They're heavenly!

Menu for Friday, October 15

Sandwiches
Chicken Pesto with Provolone Cheese

Brisket with Coleslaw and Russian Dressing
Grilled Veggie with Hummus and Swiss Cheese
Soup
Roasted Tomato Vegetable
Kid's Sandwiches
Peanut Butter Fruit Roll up
Pepperoni and Cheese Waffle Pizza
Cheesy Roll up

Call 218-728-8996 no later than Thursday at 7:00 p.m. to order your meal; pick up your order on Friday between 5:00 and 7:00. (Orders placed on Friday are limited to supplies on hand.)

Prices: Soup and whole sandwich with home-style coleslaw, pickle, and complimentary dessert, $15.00 (two orders for $29.00.)
Sandwich with coleslaw and pickle, $10.00Bowl of soup, $5.00
Kid's Sandwich, $3.00

Special Speakers Sunday--Stacey Achterhoff and Steve O'Neil

2010-10-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

So, How are the Children? Plan to be with us Sunday--in worship, Stacey Acterhoff will talk about the lives of children with whom she works in the Duluth school district; in the 2nd hour, Commissioner Steve O'Neil will talk about issues that affect the lives of children in St. Louis County. Invite someone to come with you Sunday!

Gourmet Sandwiches Available THIS Friday

2010-10-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

Check out our Friday Gourmet meals! They're heavenly!

Menu for Friday, October 8

Sandwiches

Ham and Pineapple with Swiss Cheese

Corn Beef and Cheddar with Horseradish Sauce

Tomato, Mozzarell with Sprouts and Red Pepper Spread

Soup

Harvest Roasted Vegetables

Kid's Sandwiches

Peanut Butter Fruit Roll up

Pepperoni and Cheese Waffle Pizza

Cheesy Roll up

Call 218-728-8996 no later than Thursday at 7:00 p.m. to order your meal; pick up your order on Friday between 5:00 and 7:00. (Orders placed on Friday are limited to supplies on hand.)

Prices: Soup and whole sandwich with home-style coleslaw, pickle, and complimentary dessert, $15.00 (two orders for $29.00.)
Sandwich with coleslaw and pickle, $10.00
Bowl of soup, $5.00
Kid's Sandwich, $3.00

Godly Gourmet Sandwiches and Soup

2010-09-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

They're heavenly!

Each Friday in October, from 5-7 p.m Pilgrims will be selling freshly made soup and sandwiches. Several selections will be available each week and the menu changes from week to week. Order early to get your preferred meal--call 218-728-8996 no later than Thursday at 7:00 p.m. Orders placed at pickup time will be limited to the supplies on hand.

Prices: Soup and whole sandwich with home-style coleslaw, pickle, and complimentary dessert, $15.00 (two orders for $29.00.)
Sandwich with coleslaw and pickle, $10.00
Bowl of soup, $5.00
Kid's Sandwich, $3.00

Menu items for Friday, October 1 Friday, October 1st
Sandwiches

Shredded Pork with Red Onion Jam and Blue Cheese Crumbles
Lamb Gyros with Tzatsiki sauce served on Pita bread.
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese
Soup
Cajun Gumbo with Sausage

Kid's Sandwiches

Peanut Butter Fruit Roll up

Pepperoni and Cheese Waffle Pizza

Cheesy Roll-up

Turkeys Lucky 13

2010-08-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

August 10
Ah, finally the Popes Team-St. Benedict’s, we got wet, but it was a warm wet. Kids and wives headed for the trees to try and keep dry. Was it really raining? We wanted to get this game in so bad, we were in denial. The Popes team had us down 6 to 4 in the bottom of the 3rd when Tucker walked up to plate with bases loaded—the bat always makes a certain sound when you really cream one, sort of a ting, so, TING and the race was on to see if he could score before they threw the ball back in. (He did).
The Popes had a left handed batting kid who slid into first base on his stomach (ouch) and then he got on base again and slid (on his stomach) into 3rd (more ouch) and I think Kenwood Dry Cleaners is going to get a little business. But hat’s off to the kid for effort.
Jenny Fronhauer and Abby both got a pair of hits, the women were on fire. We were lucky to get this game in before somebody got hurt. We still have to play this team one more time-6:00 pm next Tuesday, before the Playoffs. Are we ready/Is the Pope Catholic?—Oh, yea. Chalk one up for the Turkeys—13-7.

Turkey Power

2010-08-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

Grace Baptist Church had youth & speed, their time will come, but the Turkeys have age, experience & POWER, and if we had Brett Farve on our team we could win the whole ball of wax.
At the end of 4 innings we had em down 20 to 3. Snustad hits this towering fly ball, three outfielders converge on it & it falls in between all of em-wow, hope you bought a Power Ball ticket Snooz, you lucky____. Dave Adams continued his punishment of their third baseman-3 line shots down the line; I kept hearing their manager saying “Play close to the line”. Then in the first inning I could tell they were playing Nick in too close and he made em pay for that one. Lindsay hit a smash down the 3rd base line (took a page out of the Dave Adams Book). The highlight of the game was a big glop of kids enjoying, of all things, Pokemon cards-Geez, are those things still around.
It was a beautiful night, we welcomed Amity Grace into this world last night and I am a grandpa once more. Thank you Lord.

National Night Out August 3

2010-07-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Come on out for CHUM's Street Fest on Tuesday, August 3rd, 6:00-7:00. on the parking lot behind the Food Shelf. Entertainment, fun and a neighborhood gathering of CHUM supporters, volunteers, and neighbors. Food will be served from 6:00-7:00.

Turkey's Bring Big Dog!

2010-07-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

The Water’s Edge-who’s that? I asked Carter and he said it was probably a CULT of some sort. Seeing as how these were the new kids on the block, we had to see whose dog was bigger. Turns out some of our older dogs got their hackles up-Honigman and Adams hit these line shots at their 3rd baseman (I suppose he was wondering what they had for lunch). Adams made this great catch on a foul ball going down the 1st base line. Duffers Rule.
The Water’s edge was ahead of the Turkeys 2 to zip, but the Turkeys had a HUGE inning and scored 14 runs in the bottom of the 2nd inning. Tucker hit 2 homeruns in the same inning. Tuck hits the 1st homerun (over the guys head), the guy backs up and Tuck torches him again (ouch!).
The defense put a stranglehold on the Water’s Edge that would’ve made Brock Lesnar (mixed martial arts champion) blush.
Snustad crushed one to right field, and by that time Water’s Edge was searching for a white flag. Turkeys take ‘em in five innings 20-2. Our dog was bigger than their dog.-Kerry Hanlon

Register Now for Vacation Bible School

2010-07-19T08:12:00.001-07:00

Pilgrim offers Vacation Bible School in partnership with Peace United Church of Christ. Join the fun August 2-6, 9:00-noon each day. Classes are held for students age 4-grade 5; middle school and high school youth serve as class assistants and leaders. Registration can be made through the church office (email us at pilgrimdlh@msn.com). $15 registration fee/child with a maximum of $40/family. All children are welcome, regardless of church affiliation.

Turkeys Beat St. John's

2010-07-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

There was once a time when I took communion at St. John’s, and afterward I was told that I was going to a very warm place when I die because I did so. Though this may be true, needless to say I used this as the rallying cry for the Turkeys on this fine day. Grant Johnson came back to town (Good to see him again) and didn’t miss a beat. With a couple of Bunyanesque lumberjack swings, he sent the Johnnies outfielders running all game long. (I think I even saw him chugging maple syrup on the bench) Karl Honigman continued to baffle the Johnnies with his mysterious knuckle-curve pine tar-spit ball. (We let the Johnnies keep the game ball) Dave Moeller went 4-4, and both Snustad and Carter both hit titanic homeruns. Somehow I managed to knock two of their 3rd baseman out of the game with hard grounders…Ouch! Turkey’s roll 24-4. Next game July 20 at 8:00 against The Water's Edge. Tucker Hanlon

Turkeys Split a Double Headers

2010-07-13T13:18:00.000-07:00

Turkey’s vs. Peace in Christ July 6th
So there we were, eyeball to eyeball with our deadly enemy Peace in Christ (these are the dudes and dudettes that beat us in the finals last year). They have this one big dude that looks like Jim Thome of the Minnesota Twins, problem is he hits like Jim Thome ( a big thug, who can MASH). This guy has bin on Roids since age 2 (his mother snuck it in with the lutefisk, figured he couldn’t taste it anyway). Big dude hits 2 home runs & there was nothing we could do about it. They had one Big inning and scored 8 runs. The only thing that topped that was the Turkeys had a big inning also & scored 9 runs (home runs by Moeller and Frohnauer). That was the difference in the ball game--one run. Turkeys managed to squeak out the victory 13 to 12. Tucker didn’t show up for the ball game as he was at La Maze class ( I don’t know why they couldn’t have these classes behind home plate somewhere in the grass). Havilland took one in the knee and it looked like he might be on the injured reserve list, but it turned out only to be a flesh wound. If only we could’ve had our secret BAT, but Tucker had it.

We played Peace in Christ again (this was a double header) and by this time the ball had turned to MUSH--probably because Roid man had mashed it too hard. Honigman showed me the ball and it sort of looked like it had a nose on it. We whined a little bit and got a new ball, but it was too late (it really was too late, ‘squitos were chewing on me) and we lost 5-2. I shook their manager’s hand and he said “we always like playing you guys”. Next time, green jello eaters.
by Kerry Hanlon

Turkey Gobble up the Opposition

2010-06-30T12:56:00.000-07:00

Well, how do you like that, we finally got a game in. Noah put his Ark away and the Turkeys took the field. We were taking on Grace Baptist Church, and we had never played them before. So I asked Tewes what he thought - “What? We will crush them”. I wasn’t so sure. We got ahead 5 to 2, Nick Frohnauer was playing short stop and flashed some serious leather with a couple of fine defensive gems and , oh yeah, he also blasted a round tripper. Dave Moeller was playing first base and somehow got this impossible bloop fly ball down the line. In the 4th inning Dave Braun hit a home run to lead off and then the dam gates broke loose (completely loose). We batted around the whole line up - the bases were juiced when Carter walked up to the plate and hit the grand salami. I really can’t remember scoring 14 runs in one inning, but there it was, a good old fashioned whipping. Turkeys crush ‘em 19-3 (Never doubt the Tewes).

Turkeys to Play

2010-06-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

The sun is out! The field is dry! The Pilgrim Turkeys are playing Tuesday evening, 7:00, p.m. , UMD Field 1. Come out to play or cheer--or hang out at the ball field and enjoy the company!

House Finished, Common Hope Fiesta

2010-06-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

The house in San Rafael was finished in record time! We put the last of the lamina on the roof just before noon on Wednesday and were able to have the house blessing before heading back to Antigua. The house blessing is always an emotional moment when Common Hope turns the house over to the new owners, blessings are extended by the vision team, and there are tearful expressions of gratitude all around. We brought the traditional cake and had a bit of a party as we said goodbye. Then the rains began and we hurriedly put equipment and supplies in the truck and headed back to Common Hope.

We divided up for work detail in the afternoon--Bill, Suzie, Meghan, Niki, Charlotte and Meg in the warehouse sorting clothing and Gloria, Paula, Calder, Jesse and Alex to construction to make panels for another house. We had our final reflection meeting and talked about what this week and this group have meant to each of us. Then into Antigua for an hour of shopping and very nice dinner at Posada Don Roderigez.

Today is Father{s Day in Guatemala and a traditional half-day fiesta at Common Hope. There are a variety of activities, most notably the soccer matches among employee pick up teams. We{re hanging out, just playing and relaxing with the staff.

As a thank you to all the staff for their hard work and long hours immediately following Agatha, Common Hope will close at noon today and not reopen until Monday. We can tell that the staff is grateful for the long weekend and relaxing after the past three very strenuous weeks. It will be a long tme before some families and villages feel as if life has returned to normal, but the intense first phase of disaster relief is done. The house we built was originally scheduled to be completed the week of the storm, so the [blitz build[ effort with our team helped get construction back on schedule.

Gloria and Paula leave this afternoon; Bill, Suzie, Meghan and Niki leave early in the morning; Meg, Jesse, Calder, Alex and I will make a field trip to Iximche, the Mayan ruins not too far from Angtigua.

San Rafael

2010-06-16T05:22:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday the whole team, along with Common Hope{s construction crew, put up a house in San Rafael. This is the fourth house Common Hope has erected there. The village is indigenous and very poor--for some of our group this was their first encounter with chronic, unrelieved poverty and it{s sustained effects on a community. We stopped at Hands of Hope clinic, where more than sixry women and children were lined up waiting for medical care. Then we climbed up the hill to the building site.

The family for which we are building consists of a mother and father and five children. They are currently living in a corn stalk home with a kitchen area behind it. They have pigs, chickens and a dog or two--all living in close quarters. No sanitation system. Something of a latrine. Surrounded by extended family. One of the family has a bovine who is tied to a tree right in the yard.

We hammered lumber together and helped put the wall panels in place, assisted by three Guatemalan volunteers . Julio, our bus driver, pitched in. He, himself, had lost his home to a mudslide. A young man, whose education had been made possible by Common Hope, but who is not currently working, has been volunteering with us in an effort to give back. And another Guatemalan who was looking for something to do for a few days volunteered as well. Those three, along with Common Hope employees, Pablo and Felix and the boss, Mario, did most of the work! Still, Bill got the chance to instruct some of us novices, Alex, Jesse and Calder made good contributions, and we convinced Meghan and Niki that they could drive in nails. The rains held off until late afternooon.

I was in San Rafael a year ago with Pilgrim{s vision team. I found that in a year{s time, the people of San Rafael are more open and much less shy in the presence of volunteers. The mother in this family invited us in to see her old house from the inside. She made us beans and tortillas for lunch and the children scampered around us, eager for us to take their pictures.

It continues to rain in the afternoon and evening. Apparently there is another tropical storm brewing to the west. Common Hope staff is monitoring the situation and will help us make decisions related to our travels after we we leave them.

Today is Wednesday and we will return to San Rafael to finish the house and have a house blessing. This afternoon we will help here on Common Hope{s campus.

Rain, Rain

2010-06-14T21:14:00.000-07:00

It{s the rainy season in Guatemala and the first time I{ve experienced mosquitos here. Not quite up to the vigorous species of Minnesota, but annoying nonetheless. Today our team attended to a wide variety of tasks--Meg and Alex were in the warehouse sorting recent donations, Bill, Paula, Gloria, Caulder and I went with the construction crew to put up an interior wall in a school; Jesse shadowed a doctor at the clinic; Megan, Niki and Suzie took care of kids in the day care center.

During the afternoon, some of us had visits with the children we sponsor through Common Hope while others built panels to be used for a house in San Rafael. Jesse was back in the clinic and Meg and Calder did some after school care with older kids in the library. Then we had an orientation to San Rafael where we will all be working tomorrow. We have two days to put up a two room house. Here{s hoping for a day without rain!

Again at Common Hope

2010-06-12T06:12:00.000-07:00

It is early morning in Guatemala. I love watching and listenting to the morning activity from the veranda in Common Hope

I expected that we might be doing some relief work, but Common Hope is very protective of its volunteers! Our job will be to continue some of Common Hopes regular work while Common Hope staff are assessing the long term needs after the storm.

We will spend the weekend "hanging out" in Antigua, the city where Common Hope is located and Monday we will visit with families sponsored by members of our group. Tuesday and Wednesday all of us will be working on a construction site in San Rafael. Thursday we will help Common Hope honor staff and families. Friday is Father{s Day in Guatemala and Common Hope will be closed to encourage staff families to have time together, so our team gets an extra day to play!

At least, that{s the plan for the week! The group this year is a "put together group" of folks who were interested in coming to work with Common Hope but needed a team to go with. Gloria and Paula are from southern Minnesota and will be joining a group from their Catholic parish for work in San Lucas later next week. Suzie and Bill are from Chicago and brought their two granddaughters, Nikki and Megan. My sister, Meg and her son Jesse are with us, along with Jesse{s best friend Calder. Alex is with us as well.

So far, we{ve only seen one of the footprints Agatha left behind--there is still one place where not all the rocks from a slide have been removed from the road between Guatemala City and Antigua. But we{ve heard that there are still roads that are impassable because of mud and rock slides--that is one of the reasons we are staying in Antigua this weekend.

In the areas where there was the most damage, there are some diseases beginning to show up, some related to compromised sanitary conditions. Volunteeer work is limited in those areas. I{m sure we{ll hear and see more as the week unfolds.

Take care. We{ll keep you posted! Charlottte

Getting the Rhubarb Ready

2010-06-09T07:17:00.000-07:00

One week after Grandma's, Duluth celebrates a Rhurbab Festival! In addition to being great fun, it's an excellent fundraiser for CHUM. This Saturday, June 12th, folks will be chopping rubarb and freezing it for pie making, sauce making, and even ice cream flavoring. Here's an invitation from CHUM.

Rubarb cutting begins at 8:30 a.m. in the kitchen (lower level) of Peace Church (11th Ave. E. & 11th St.) and lasts until 1:00 p.m. However, people are invited to take part for whatever length of time they have available. Cutting rhubarb goes best with song, story, and conversation so come with the expectation of good fellowship and time well spent for a great cause.

PILGRIM TURKEYS

2010-06-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

It was too soggy for a softball game tonight, but check us out next Tuesday evening. Pilgrim's softball team--co-ed and intergenerational--plays almost every Tuesday evening at Field 1 at UMD. We're the guys and gals with gray and black shirts, turkeys on the front, "approved by God" stamped on the back. Softball games are great fun for the whole family--and a great place to meet Pilgrims. Most games are at 6:00 p.m. Check the calendar page on our website to be sure.

Bars of Soap and Toothbrushes

2010-06-03T21:11:00.000-07:00

If you lost everything you owned to a mudslide, what would you ask for first, after water and food? Families related to Common Hope would greatly appreciate personal hygiene items--soap (bars are easier for us to pack and carry); toothbrushes, toothpaste, washclothes, small towels, basic first aid kits. Tropical storm Agatha dropped 20 inches of rain in parts of Guatemala, creating mudslides that thundered through villages perches on the volcanoes around Antigua where Common Hope is located. Pilgrim will accept donations through Wednesday June 9th. On the 10th, Charlotte Frantz and her son Alex take off for a week of volunteer work with Common Hope.

Music at The Pines

2010-06-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

Enjoy a short concert by Bellissimo, Pilgrim's handbell choir, at The Pines, Saturday afternoon, 2:00 p.m. The Pines are located on St. Marie Street, behind Mount Royal Shopping Center.

HUGE Book Sale

2010-06-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim's Annual Book Sale will be this Saturday, June 5, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Stock up for the summer. Great reading material in all categories. Tell your friends and neighbors.

Keep Guatemala in Your Prayers

2010-05-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

Tropical Storm Agatha dumped rain on Guatemala and El Salvador and Pacaya erupted dumping ash. The combined effect has left many families homeless. Last year Pilgrim sent a group on a service learning trip to Guatemala. Common Hope, with whom we worked, was not damaged, but is running on a back up generator. Families from nearby villages who have lost everything are staying at the facility. San Pedro Huertas, where we built a house, has suffered significant damage. Mudslides are making roads to some of the villages impassible. We are awaiting word about the families members of our congregation sponsor and are trying to contact the Del Cid family to check on their safety.

Annual Dinner and Meeting

2010-05-24T20:58:00.000-07:00

Come for the fun; stay for some community business. Wednesday, May 26, Pilgrim hosts its annual dinner and meeting. Members, friends and guests are welcome! Entertainment from the 2009-2010 program year at Pilgrim--Joyful Noise and Pilgrim Percussion. Silent auction of the printed word and live auction for delicious desserts. Social hour begins at 5:30 with Pizza (Maybe) by Michael Hillmeyer to follow. Reservations encouraged but NOT required! Come join the fun! Business meeting includes acceptance of annual reports, adoption of amended 2010 budget, and election of church leadership.

Have You met us on Facebook?

2010-05-18T20:10:00.000-07:00

We have a page on Facebook--check us out! And we're on PAC-TV every Wednesday at 3:30 and 8:00 p.m. and Thursday at 7:00 a.m. And of course, you are welcome to meet us in person any Sunday morning at 10:00 a.m.

This Sunday, May 23, Barb Schwery is our guest in the pulpit. Barb is a national trainer for the Befriender Ministry, based in Minneapolis. Pilgrim is training its first class of Befrienders, a special ministry of listening and companionship.

Sing a Song of Joy. . . Sunday, May 16 10:00 a.m.

2010-05-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

SING A SONG OF JOY. . .Sunday's worship service will celebrate song in our congregation's life. Special guest choir--the concert choir from Angelica Cantanti, a wonderful children and youth choral group from the Twin Cities. And our own Bellissimo Handbell choir and Pilgrim choir! This is a worship service meant to be enjoyed! 10:00 Sunday, May 16th. Invite someone to come with you.

HUGE Rummage Sale This Weekend

2010-05-10T12:39:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim is hosting a HUGE Rummage Sale, Saturday, May 15. Lots of kids' stuff--clothing and toys. Many, many household goods. Some homemade crafts and boutique items. Coffee and refreshments available. 8:00-2:00. (No books--Come June 5th to load up on summer reading material!)

Make a Joyful Noise Concert May 9th

2010-05-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

Make a Joyful Noise, Pilgrim's Children's music class is coming to a close for this year. We've learned so much! Come and join us at our Celebration Concert on Mother's day, May 9th, 2pm, in the church's sanctuary. The Pilgrim Percussion Ensemble will also have their debut performance. Come support your fellow Pilgrims and some community youth at this fun event!

Four Weeks of Prayer

2010-05-04T07:23:00.000-07:00

Various rhythms enhance our spiritual lives. At Pilgrim, we make time for individual spiritual reflection and small group conversation. Beginning May 9, members and friends are invited into "four weeks of prayer" following a pattern established earlier this spring. Follow an outlined prayer journal during the week, then come for a small group conversation on Sundays. Take part in a conversation at 8:30, prior to worship, or at 11:20, following worship. Groups will meet May 9, 16, 23 and June 6 and 13. Open to members, friends and guests of Pilgrim Church.

March Against Racism Monday May 3

2010-05-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim Church has a deep and longstanding commitment to dismantling racism. Members of the congregation will join in the March Against Racism Monday, May 3. This march is organized by the Student Coalition Against Racism and is one of several marches in the Northland tomorrow. Although the march was planned as part of a response to a particular incident at UMD, it is an acknowledgement that racism is still present in the wider community of Duluth. Marchers are committed to standing up against racism wherever they encounter it.

The church that eats together. . .

2010-04-26T13:07:00.001-07:00

Let us break bread together. . .gathering around the table is a great way to get to know each other better and nourish the Spirit among us. On Saturday, May 1 families with children are invited to a potluck and the Tewes-Anderson home. At 5:00 that same day, there's a Progressive dinner. And after worship on Sunday, the Deacons are serving brunch--if you've been absent from our congregation for a while, take this opportunity to worship, eat, and enjoy catching up with your friends. On Tuesday, May 4, the Circle of Friends are going out for their Spring Luncheon. Call the church office, 724-8503, for more information and reservations for any of these gatherings! We'd love to see you.

Feel the Joy! Watch this New Video about the United Church of Christ

2010-04-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

UMD Faculty Woodwind Quintet

2010-04-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

The last Pilgrim Presents Concert of the 2009-2010 season will be THIS Sunday, 2:00 p.m. at Pilgrim Congregational Church. Come hear Jeff Campbell, bassoon; James Pospisil, horn; Ted Schoen, clarinet; Lorie Scott, flute; and Laurie Van Brunt, oboe. Tickets are available at the door, $15/adult; $8/student; youth, free. This concert series has been made possible by a gift in memory of Wally and Hazel Niss.

Opening Our Doors, Opening Our Hearts

2010-04-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

The 10th Annual Opening Our Doors Conference will be held this Friday and Saturday, April 16 and 17, in various locations. Keynote Speaker is the Rev. Mel White, author of Stranger at the Gate: To be Gay and Christian in America. Dr. White was recognized by the ACLU for his application of the principles of non-violence resistence to the struggle for justice for sexual minorities. Dr. White will speak at 7:30 at First United Methodist Church. On Saturday he will speak at 10:00 at Marshall School Auditorium. On Saturday afternoon, also at Marshall School, a panel of speakers representing various religious traditions will talk about marriage equality. The Conference will conclude Saturday evening with the musical work Joshua and the Promised Land produced at Peace UCC, 7:00 p.m. Pilgrim Congregational Church is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ and has been a co-sponsor and supporter of the Opening Our Doors Conference throughout its history.

Salvadoran Folk Mass Sunday, April 11

2010-04-07T09:58:00.001-07:00

This Sunday, April 11, Pilgrim's worship service will be based on the music and life of the Salvadoran church. Thirty years ago, Oscar Romero, Archbishop of San Salvador and advocate for the rights of indigenous people in El Salvador, was assassinated as he celebrated the mass. United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities sent a delegation to El Salvador in March to participate in an ecumenical remembrance of the assassination.

Diane Light, who traveled to El Salvador with this group, will be the guest speaker at Pilgrim on Sunday. The Pilgrim choir and a group of instrumentalists under the direction of Dr. Jack Bowman, will present music from the Salvadoran Folk Mass as part of the service.

For a narrative of the United Theological Seminary trip, go to http://www.utsglobaltrip.com/.

Holy Week at Pilgrim

2010-03-30T06:57:00.001-07:00

Pilgrim's traditional Tenebrae service is one of the most beautiful and solemn services of the year. During the service the sanctuary is darkened as we read the accounts of the last night of Jesus life on earth. This year we'll be reading from the Gospel of Luke. The service begins at 7:00.

On Friday evening, Pilgrim's choir, along with the choirs of Glen Avon Presbyterian Church and Peace United Church of Christ, will present Dubois' The Seven Last Words of Christ. The service begins at 7:00 and will be held in the sanctuary of Glen Avon church, 2105 Woodland Avenue.

Sunday morning Pilgrim celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ with a festive service at 10:00 a.m. There will be a continental breakfast at 9:00, courtesy of Jim and Teresa Peterson and family. Come for great music and a wondeful Easter morning!

Romero Remembered

2010-03-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

Today, March 24th is the 30th Anniversary of Oscar Romero's assissination in El Salvador. Romero was Archbishop at the time, and is remembered for his work on behalf of the poor. On Thursday, March 25th, the movie Romero will be shown at Pilgrim Congregational Church in commemoration of his work. The public is invited.

Lynne Davis Concert This Sunday

2010-02-04T10:39:00.000-08:00

Lynne Davis, international concert organist will present "A Recital of French Suites" this Sunday afternoon, February 7, at Pilgrim Congregational Church. The recital begins at 2:00 p.m. Tickets ($15, adult; $8, student) are available at the door. Lynne will be playing Pilgrim's Jaeckel organ.

Pilgrim on PACT-TV

2010-01-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

Did you miss one of our Christmas Services? Pilgrim services will be aired on Duluth's Public Access Television (channel 7). Each week Pilgrim will be shown in three time slots:

Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 pm
Wednesdays, 8:00-9:00 pm
Thursdays, 7:00-8:00 am

If you missed a Christmas service, or would like a friend or neighbor to check us out, tune into channel 7. You need cable service (or a friend who can tape the program for you!)

Week of January 6 Christmas Pageant Service, December 20

Week f January 13 Christmas Oratorio by the Pilgrim Choir

Week of Janary 20 Surprised by an Angel, Service from December 6

Week of January 27 Haydn's The Creation by Pilgrim Choir and Guest Musicians

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

2009-12-24T18:33:00.001-08:00

In spite of the snow, Pilgrim will hold a Candlelight service at 10:00 tonight!

The Christmas Star

2009-12-15T08:03:00.001-08:00

On December 20, Pilgrim children, youth and adults will bring to the nativity story to life with the reading and dramatic interpretation of "The Christmas Star." This original story was written by Rev. Charlotte Frantz as a Christmas gift for the children in the first congregation she served. It has been re-written as a drama by Rachael Kresha. The service begins at 10:00 a.m.

At 4:00 in the afternoon, Pilgrims will go Christmas carolling. They will return to the church at 6:00 for a pizza party. Come one, come all! Enjoy the winter weather and help spread a little Christmas cheer!

Christmas Oratorio by Camille Saint Saens

2009-12-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, December 13, the Pilgrim Choir will present Saint Saens’ Christmas Oratorio as the focus of our worship service. Saint-Saens's Christmas Oratorio (or Oratorio de Noel) was written in 1858 when the composer was just 23.
The Christmas Oratorio opens with a Prelude subtitled 'In the style of Sebastian Bach' harkening back to Bach's Christmas Oratorio. This opening prelude sets the scene for the Christmas story: its lilting pastoral quality creates images of the shepherds tending their flocks in the fields. In the remaining movements, the vocal soloists take turns representing different characters such as the narrator of the story or as the angel who announces the birth of the baby Jesus while the chorus represents a multitude of angels singing to the glory of the Lord. The final movement of the piece, which follows the model of old French Christmas songs, is a virtual hymn of praise of all creation in the presence of God.

Advent-Christmas at Pilgrim

2009-12-03T10:28:00.000-08:00

We're already had our Hanging of the Greens service on the first Sunday of Advent! The greens and white lights are up in the sanctuary, the poinsettias have arrived and the purple paraments declare the season of Advent. It's a time for waiting, watching, wondering and worshiping! This Sunday is our annual Advent Worshop--lunch follows the worship service and then children, youth and adults can make gifts, tree ornaments, and Christmas decorations. If you aren't into crafts, join those who have chosen to watch The Soloist on DVD.

On December 13, the Pilgrim Choir, accompanied by Velda Bell on organ, will present Saint Saens' Christmas Oratorio as the focus of our morning worship. The service begins at 10:00.

On December 20, children, youth and adults will present an original story, The Bethlehem Star, as part of our worship service.

And on Christmas Eve we gather at 10:00 to worship the Christ Child and wonder at the gracious love of God sent in human form so long ago.

2009-11-20T11:46:00.000-08:00

From the Social Justice Ministry

Racism: the assertion of superiority by one racial group over another. It is the exercising of power that abuses or disadvantages people on the basis of their perceived racial difference, while the dominant group maintains privileges and advantages through racist and discriminatory practices.
Racism is perpetuated at the individual level, but the accumulated effect of centuries of white racism have left it deeply entrenched at the systemic and institutional levels.
Racism cannot be reduced to an individual psychological phenomenon. It is a historical development.
Racism had a beginning and it can have an end.
S. Kardash and S. Lamble, 2003

Hogwarts Halloween Party

2009-10-19T21:20:00.000-07:00

Get into your wizardy best costume and come to Pilgrim's Hogwarts Halloween party! Make your own wand, take in a session of the potions class, visit the joke shoppe, relax in the Three Broomsticks Tavern, compete in a sock relay--It all happens on Sunday, October 25th from 6:30-8:00 at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 2310 E. 4th Street, Duluth

Sunday School Begins September 13; New Music Program for Kids

2009-08-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

Along with the beginning of the school year, Pilgrim's educational activities for children and youth are starting up. September 13 is Gathering Sunday when Sunday School classes begin. This year we have two classes: one for children ages 4-2nd grade and the other for children 3rd-6th grade. Both classes encourage children to learn stories from the Bible. The younger class uses Godly Play and the older class focuses its attention on Jesus and His Kingdom of Equals. These curricula were chosen because they teach Biblical stories, engage children in age appropriate critical thinking, and emphasize issues of social justice as well as personal spirituality. Classes meet during the worship service.

Make a Joyful Noise is a new program at Pilgrim designed for children ages 5-10. Not a church choir, this weekday program is an integrated approach to music using songs, percussion, movement and stories. The class meets on Wednesdays at 6:00.

Sunday School and Make a Joyful Noise is open to Pilgrim members and non-members. For more information, contact the church office at 724-8503 or pilgrimdlh@msn.com.

Channel 6 newscast

2009-08-20T08:01:00.000-07:00

We all made it safely back to Duluth on August 10--some of us in the very wee hours of the morning. We're back to work and play and thinking about school beginning again. Channel 6 in Duluth is doing a story of our trip using footage from a videographer who was at Common Hope the same time we were. Deb and Morgan Mitchell were interviewed by one of the local reporters. Check out the news broadcasts tonight (August 20) or check Channel 6's website.

Our group will be making a report to the congregation, including pictures and commentary on our trip, probably on October 4. If you've enjoyed our blog, plan to be with us that Sunday morning.

Y Tambien

2009-08-09T05:08:00.000-07:00

y tambien. . . .and also. . . Saturday we had the opportunity to learn more about Guatemala{s people, culture and heritage. We spent the morning with Don Filiberto and his family. They live in San Miguel Escobar, just beyond San Pedro las Huertas. The story is that the town was once flooded by waters that overflowed from the top of Volcan Agua and then was reestablished by a rich man whose name was Miguel Escobar---and to honor him after his death, the villagers used his name. Officially, the community is a zone of Cuidad Vieja.

We arrived at Filiberto{s home where we were greeted by him, his wife and five of their eleven children. They served us hot chocolate--a traditional drink served on holidays or when special guests arrive. We climbed with them up the volcano to their cornfield. Occasionally we{d stop along the way for explanation of the fields through which we were walking. Jocote grows as a fruit from which liquor or jam can be made. Beans (friolijes) are planted between corn stalks where they can climb. Coffee is grown under taller trees because they need the shade. We saw avocado and quave trees.

Occasionally we just stopped to catch our breath and/or survey the beauty of the scenery. The climb was strenuous and the altitude got to some of us--but we all made it to the cornfield. There Filiberto told us about his family{s life during the years 1990-1992 when 14 guerrillas took up residence in his field. He and his neighbors were required to feed them and bring them water against orders from the army. Like many others, he and his family only wanted to live their lives peacefully and were caught in the middle of the conflict.

Maria Elena, his wife, made tortillas for us while his three sons mixed up fresh guacamole. Alex perfected his skill at making small tortillas and helped! We ate until we were full and then headed down the trail. We spent some time at Filiberto{s home, purchasing aprons made by one of the daughters and then saying goodbye to Felix, of Common Hope{s construction crew. Felix was delivering coffee he had promised some of us. And then there were ducks, chickens and other household animals to entertain us as well. Filiberto{s family is affiliated with Common Hope--what an example of the way a family works together. The eleven children range in age from 24 to 9--one of the older is now a teacher and another is a bilingual secretary.

We came back to Common Hope for quick showers and clean up and went into Antigua for lunch at Condesa Cafe--great soups and sandwiches on the menu, breakfast served all day, and yummy desserts. Then it was back into a van for the trip to Santiago Zamora (25 minutes from Antigua). In Santiago Zamora, a Ketchiquil community, the women formed a weaving cooperative. Money they raise has made it possible for them to send their children to school and to start a medical clinic in the village. In addition to selling textiles, they welcome visitors with demonstrations of their work and traditional Guatemalan food. So we ate again--chicken pepian, tortillas, lemonade or jicama drink.

The rains came while we were at Santiage Zamora--for about 20 minutes it poured and the rain on the tin roof made it impossible to hear our hostess{ story, but in typical Guatemala style, our hostesses waited patiently until the uproar ceased and then resumed their presentations.

Back to Common Hope--then Morgan and Deb, Nan, Stacey, Joanie, Sarah, and Bridget went out to dinner at La Pena de Sol Latino--good food, slow service. Katie, Claire, and Alex decided they were worn out from the day{s activities, so they stayed at Common Hope and relaxed while Charlotte and Abbie, our Common Hope hospitality person, finished up some work.

Today we head home--we{ll leave Antigua about 11:00, fly through Houston, and get back to Minneapolis about midnight. It{s been a full week, rich in all sorts of experiences. It{s been a great group--folks worked together well, took care of each other, and learned a lot. It{s been fun to share our week via this blog. Common Hope{s web site isn{t quite up to date, but check back next week--we are leaving pictures behind which they will post. Among our group we are sponsoring 7 Common Hope children--so the relationships we{ve made here in Guatemala are likely to continue.

Take care.

End of the work week

2009-08-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

It{s another Guatemalan experience--waiting for a food order that somehow got lost. We{re hanging out in the common area of the dormitory, playing cards, doing crossword puzzles, washing and drying clothes, telling stories, etc. and waiting for a pizza delivery.

The construction crew thought they were in for a light morning laying out the forms for the foundation of the house to be built in San Rafael. This house will have a poured concrete floor rather than tiles. BUT. . .Joanie, Claire, Deb and Charlotte put in a day that equaled any other day this week. The problem was that the site for the house wasn{t quite large enough, nor was the site as level as it appeared. We had to build up one side of the site by several inches and we watched as the experienced crew from Common Hope solved the problems posed by the size of the house. The site is elevated a good 36 inches (at least) from the ground immediately in front of it. There wasn{t enought loose soil available to build up to the height of the site. But there were some old concrete pilings on the property and the construction crew decided they could be used to fill in the area. More scraping and excavating to make the space fit the concrete pilings. We never would have gotten the job done without Joanie. She and a long term volunteer moved the wheelbarrow, sometimes need to lift it over the already-positioned forms. The rest of us scraped, shoveled, pick axed and tamped dirt until our arms wouldn{t move any longer.

Nan, Bridget, Stacey and Sarah each oberserved classes in a pilot school run by Common Hope. The children who go to school here have emotional or behavioral problems or have some other learning challenges. Classes tend to be noisy with a lot of disruptions. No IEPs and learning goals that educators in the US are used to.

Alex, Morgan and Katie spent the morning at the warehouse sorting school supplies and doing inventory.

After a lunch of chicken pepin (almost a national dish in Guatemala) we had the opportunity to buy goods produced by vendors who are part of a group called As Green as it Gets. The founders of the group spoke to us and helped us appreciate the creativity and initiative that are prerequesites to belonging to this particular group. As Green As it Gets has a website and some of their products can be ordered stateside.

Sometime after 2:00 our team and a few others gathered at the home completed this week to have a house blessing and celebration. Luis, the young man of the family who worked with us all week, was there along with a brother. We exchanged thanks, wished his family well, prayed for their wellbeing in their new home, said the Lord{s prayer together in Spanish, and ate chocolate Tres Leches cake provided by Common Hope.

Then there were goodbyes with the staff with whom we{d worked all week--members of the various departments helped bid us goodbye. Again, there were many expressions of thanks, tears, hugs, laughs, and each of us were presented with a banner from Familias de Esperanza, as Common Hope is known here.

The pizzas just arrived, and there{s not too much more to report. Take care. We{ll be home in another two days.