Creating Safe Spaces Through Healthy Boundaries
Pastor Carla Christopher recently led an impactful and inspiring introduction to Healthy Boundaries for Faith Leaders Supporting Marginalized Populations.
During her time with Community’s ministry leaders and participants, Pastor Carla brought to life the importance of understanding how stress and trauma affect marginalized groups—particularly within communities of faith. As people of God, it’s vital that we recognize the unique challenges faced by those who are threatened or excluded, and how we can show up in ways that are healing, not harmful.
Together, Community participants explored how to practice meaningful self-care and how to support safe, welcoming environments that reduce the risk of harm or re-traumatization. These are not only ministry tools—they are life tools.
As a safe and inclusive place for people of faith in Sussex County, Community continues to grow in its mission of hospitality, justice, and compassion—especially when so many within Community come from marginalized populations. The time spent in this class was both useful and deeply encouraging for participants.
One valuable resource introduced during the session was the Self-Care Wheel, a practical guide to personal well-being. This tool serves not just our leaders, but our entire congregation in our daily lives and relationships. I’m pleased to share this helpful resource with you here that was shared by Pastor Carla within the learning group.
It’s my hope that each of us continue to embrace and learn from all the ways to care for one another while caring for ourselves.
Pastor Karis
Wednesday morning group continues journey through Spiritual Literacy
“…spiritual literacy is the ability to read the signs written in the texts of our own experiences. Whether viewed as a gift from God or a [practice] to be cultivated, the facility enables us to discern and decipher a world full of meaning….”
(Spiritual Literacy – Reading the Sacred in Everyday Life, by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat)
Recently Pastor Karis referred to the cloud of witnesses, our spiritual ancestors, as well as our being spiritually present every day, to experiencing God in our lives. Our Wednesday morning small group is a cloud of witnesses as we explore a host of experiences shared in the book, Spiritual Literacy. We journey through chapters of community, friendship, relationships, and connection while discovering sacred space in our homes, lives, and our communities. Our discussions on the chapters are thoughtful, challenging, and enriching.
We will continue with the Spiritual Literacy text in the next several weeks. We will also explore some spiritual practices designed to deepen our connection to God and the divine within us.
Please join us Wednesday mornings from 10:00-11:30 in Luther Hall. Our first session after the summer break will be 24 October.
If you have any questions, please contact Thadine Coyne or Mary Ann Trueheart.
Until then…
May we walk with grace
and may the light of the
universe shine upon our path. ~ Anonymous
Community Lutheran Returns to the Rehoboth Block Party!
Community Lutheran is excited to once again take part in the CAMP Rehoboth Block Party with our very own booth! This beloved annual event is more than just a celebration—it’s an opportunity for us to show up as a reminder of God’s loving presence in a hurting world.
This year’s Block Party will take place on Sunday, October 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second block of Baltimore Avenue in downtown Rehoboth Beach. Hosted by CAMP Rehoboth, the event is free and open to all, though donations are encouraged to support their important work.
Started in 2015 to celebrate CAMP Rehoboth’s 25th anniversary, the Block Party has grown into a vibrant tradition that brings the entire community together. Attendees can expect live performances, dozens of local vendors, and a festive atmosphere filled with joy, creativity, and connection. You’ll find everything from sea glass art, ceramics, and photography to handmade body care products and information about local non-profits and businesses.
Throughout the day, performances will take place at the CAMP Rehoboth stage, located mid-block. Please note that parking on the second block of Baltimore Avenue will be closed during the event, but parking nearby is free, and the event is accessible via several entrances:
- First St. & Baltimore Ave.
- Second St. & Baltimore Ave.
- Rehoboth Mews or Village by the Sea (from Rehoboth Avenue)
We hope you’ll stop by our booth, say hello, and share in this celebration of diversity, community, and love. Your presence matters. Let’s show Rehoboth that Community Lutheran is here with open arms and an open heart.
What’s Happening at Community
Help us reach the goal
Community Lutheran Church has launched a fundraising effort to strengthen our General Fund, with a goal of raising $50,000 by Sept. 28. A generous donor has pledged to match $15,000 if our congregation can raise $35,000.
Your gift, no matter the size, will help us continue the vibrant ministries that make Community Lutheran a place of radical welcome, compassion, and hope. Please give as you are able and help us meet this challenge together.
Total matching contributions received through September 7th, including the $15,000 match which we have received, total $45,510, we have brought in $30,510 toward the $35,000 challenge.
Al-Anon Group
CLC Food Pantry Donation Requests
- Canned vegetables and fruits
- Pasta
- Canned or dry beans
- Personal care and cleaning supplies
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Cereals
- Pancake mix
- Pancake syrup
- Rice – 1 lb. bags
The Food Pantry plans to extend its hours to accommodate potential clients who work during the day, prayerfully starting in October.
However, we will need some volunteers (who are not part of the morning hours) to assist. We are looking for people available on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 5:15/5:30 p.m. until about 7:00 p.m. to help out with distribution and clean up.
If you are interested, please reach out to Mona or Katie.
The next food pantry will take place on September 16 from 10 to 12. Volunteers are welcome to come around 8:30 for set-up. Thank you for all you do to serve the community!
The Dayhoffs celebrate 70 years!
Come one, come all to join Fred and Judy Dayhoff in celebrating their 70th Anniversary.
Fred and Judy will be hosting some delicious treats between services on September 14th in Luther Hall for all of their church family.
For those who attend the 10:30 service, come a bit early to celebrate with Fred and Judy. Please grab a cup of coffee or a cold drink and a snack before service and wish them many more loving years together.