Heavenly Herald Newsletter – October 2026
The Heavenly Herald
660 West Main Street Cheshire, PO Box 157, CT 06410
(203) 272-5106 | Fax (203) 272-3523
Pastor's Message
“Out of love for the truth and the desire to bring it to light, the following propositions will be discussed at Wittenberg, under the presidency of the Reverend Father Martin Luther, Master of Arts and of Sacred Theology, and Lecturer in Ordinary on the same at that place. Wherefore he requests that those who are unable to be present and debate orally with us, may do so by letter. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.” Disputation of Doctor Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences by Dr. Martin Luther, Works of Martin Luther (Vol. 1. p. 29)
We all know the story of how Martin Luther began the Reformation: On October 31, 1517, Luther went and posted his 95 Theses on the door of the Church in Wittenberg; with hammer and nail, he pounded into the door a protest against the Roman Church’s abuses and started Christendom down the path that liberated from the Law, bringing to it the freedom of the Gospel.
At least, that’s how many Christians – especially those of our Lutheran variety – seem to remember things. But what if I told you the truth of the matter was a bit different?
Martin Luther did post his 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517, but it wasn’t exactly an act of defiant protest against a systemically oppressive Church hierarchy. It was a Professor at the University at Wittenberg going to the school bulletin board (which also doubled as the door to the Castle Church), and posting on it an invitation for professors and scholars to come and debate a collection of ideas that he wanted to test out against other academics. By all reliable accounts, all Martin Luther was trying to do that October day in 1517 was find people to participate in an academic debate, not start a movement that would reform the entire Christian Church in Western Europe.
I point this out not to dampen the pride Lutherans feel in our namesake nor to lessen the importance of Reformation Sunday at the end of this month. No, I bring attention to it, so that we may recognize more clearly what amazing things God does through ordinary people who are going about their ordinary lives. Martin Luther was simply doing what professors did; he came up with a series of ideas, laid them out as clearly as he could, and then invited other professors to come and help him figure out if they were right or not. He didn’t set out to do something that would change the world; he was just living his life as an ordinary Christian. It was God who used that ordinary Christian going about his ordinary activities to do extraordinary things.
God continues to do the exact same thing through His people – that means YOU – to this very day. God isn’t calling you to change the world, or nation or even our town. He’s not asking you to try to be the next Fulton Sheen or Billly Graham or Walter A. Maier. He’s not telling you to become a missionary or an evangelist or even a pastor. God simply wants you to live the life you have right now as a Christian, as His faithful child. Just put your faith into action every day as you go about your normal routine. That’s all. You don’t have to go out of your way and do something special or extra.
Just be a faithful Christian going about your ordinary activities of your ordinary life. Who knows, maybe God will do something extraordinary through you too.
In Christ,
Pastor David Rowold
News From the President & Church Council
Greetings Everyone.
As of this writing, we are experiencing a Nor’easter, and I pray that each of you has come through the storm safely, without damage or harm.
Our choirs have returned, Sunday School is in full session, and the Council is back at work. We have already held our first Council and Voters’ meetings of the season. At the September Council meeting, Randy Raddatz presented the first draft of the 2026 Mission Plan, which was approved by the Council and then shared with the Voters. The final version will be brought forward in November for approval after any necessary adjustments.
Another important matter discussed at both meetings was the formation of our Nominating Committee, as outlined in our Constitution and Bylaws. This committee is made up of two Deacons and one Voter. At the time of this writing, the committee consists of Jonathan Schrumm, Erica Bencivenga, and Rob DeLaubell. We have several positions to fill:
- President
- Vice President
- Secretary
- Treasurer
- Evangelism Deacon
- Christian Growth Fund
- Youth Deacon
If you feel called to serve in any of these roles, please reach out to the Nominating Committee. You will not serve alone; there are always members ready to support and guide you.
We are also seeking someone to step into the role of Sunday School Superintendent when Tricia Rowold steps down in June. This individual would work alongside Tricia from January through June to prepare to take over in September.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10
The Cheshire Fall Festival took place on September 19, and CLC hosted a booth once again. The festival was well attended, and we hope that some of our visitors may be moved to learn more about our congregation and Little Cherubs. Thank you to everyone who helped set up and staff our booth.
Our next Council meeting will be held on October 21, and the next Voters’ meeting will take place on Sunday, November 8 in the Church Hall. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to any Council member.
Yours in Christ
Bill Soulier
CLC Parish President
Evangelism Deacon
Greetings! Thank you to Bill Soulier and many others for proudly representing Cheshire Lutheran Church at the Cheshire Fall Festival. We have been a beacon of light in our community for many generations. With God’s help, we can continue to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ to all those in our community.
In the words of my grandmother, Carolyn Bammann, “We are the best little church in town!” How right she is! We have so many volunteers who selflessly give of their time and talents to make our church better. I look forward to continuing to make Cheshire Lutheran a place for people to grow in their faith, serve, and join in fellowship for many more generations to come.
Our Woman’s Book Club has changed their meeting for the next meeting. We will be reading The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom and discussing it at CHURCH in the library on October 27th at 6:30 PM. Our final meeting for 2026 will be on December 1st at 6:30 PM. We will be having a book exchange and Christmas party, likely at Eva Schrumm’s house.
Blessings,
Erica Bencivenga
Evangelism Deacon
Fellowship Deacon
Great news for October! On Saturday, October 24, we’ll be having a FREE jazz concert at our church! The John Brighenti Trio will be performing jazz standards from 2:00pm – 3:15pm with a reception to follow in our Fellowship Hall. Please come and invite your friends!
We are still working out the details on the 65th anniversary of the dedication of our pipe organ. In November, we are hoping to have an organ recital with a guest organist. This date will be announced soon.
December will be a time to celebrate the 70th anniversary of our church and our annual Advent Jubilee. This will take place on Sunday, December 6, following our 10:30 church service. In November, a signup sheet for this will be on the bulletin board in the hallway.
Blessings to all!
Thom Zeppieri
Fellowship Deacon
Financial Secretary
Reminders from Your Financial Secretary:
- When sending a check by mail to the Church, either personally or through an outside financial entity, please send the check to our
Mailing Address:
Cheshire Lutheran Church
P.O. Box 157
Cheshire, CT 06410
- If you have any questions, please email the Financial Secretary or contact me directly (see the Church Directory for my email address).
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Psalm 100:4
Nancy Schweizer
Financial Secretary
House & Grounds Deacon
Welcome to our digital Heavenly Herald! Can’t thank Beth enough for helping me navigate this change. No more changing the belt on my Smith Corona and brushing on the White Out!
Speaking of fresh paint… there will be some activity painting the cloak room for its new roll as a children’s nursery. Some other closets will be repurposed for robes as well.
Thanks to our volunteers on committees painters, and movers for making this happen.
I hope to clean out the back lot shed in the next few weeks. If you have any thoughts on its contents, function, roll, etc. please let me or a house and grounds committee member know.
Jonathan Schrumm
House and Grounds Deacon
Social Welfare Deacon
Supporting Our Neighbors Through the Cheshire Community Food Pantry
As a church family, we continue to faithfully support the Cheshire Community Food Pantry and the important work they do for our community. This fall, we have two meaningful opportunities to bless local families and help strengthen the Pantry’s outreach.
- Thanksgiving Baskets – Our Gravy Collection
The Pantry is preparing Thanksgiving Baskets for families in need, and we have been asked to contribute 80 jars or packages of gravy. These items will help ensure that every household can enjoy a warm, comforting holiday meal. All gravy donations are due by October 11.
- THRIVENT Feed the Northeast – A Chance to Multiply Our Impact
We are also participating in the Feed the Northeast initiative. If we are among the first churches to collect 500 food items this fall, this total includes our 80 gravy items, the Cheshire Food Pantry will receive an additional $500 to support their shelves and services. The deadline for this collection is also October 11.
This is a wonderful opportunity for us to come together and make a real difference. Every can, box, or bottle helps us move closer to the goal and provides nourishment to families who rely on the Pantry.
Cheshire Food Pantry—Adopt a Shelf—Wish List Items:
The Pantry has welcomed a new executive director who is learning the rhythms and needs of the organization. At this time, our Adopt-a-Shelf items remain dish detergent and syrup, two essentials that help keep the shelves stocked and families supported.
Wish List Items: Want to make a bigger impact with our food donations? Each week, the pantry director releases a Wishlist detailing real-time needs. Please check the Heavenly Herald and bulletin updates for the latest list.
Delivery Sign-Up: When signing up to deliver items to the food pantry, please aim for the third week of the month. This helps us accurately record our food totals for the Heavenly Herald.
Our continuous collection for the Cheshire Food Pantry remains active with bins located under the counter near the church office doors. Please consider signing up to deliver the items to the food pantry.
Staff at the pantry are very thankful for our donations and they have a positive impact on our community.
With grateful hearts, let’s join together to meet these goals and continue shining Christ’s love into our community. Your generosity is deeply appreciated, and every donation is a blessing.
Thank you for your generosity and support!
Terri Daly
Social Welfare Deacon
Stewardship Deacon
No News This Month
Worship Deacon
You are cordially invited to be a:
- Reader
- Usher
- Greeter
- Singer or Ringer
- Altar Guilder
- Live Stream Camera Operator
In a typical four Sunday month, there can be at least 70 “periods of service” where members usher, acolyte, read lessons, greet other members and guests before service, glorify God through musical offerings, prepare the altar, and operate CLC’s live stream broadcast.
Our services are a sacred time to gather, reflect, and grow together in faith as a worship community. It is truly a blessing to serve God and our worship community. No experience is necessary, just a spirit of love and a willingness to serve.
On September 8th, I presented the recommendation of the Nursery Committee to the Church Council, formed per the CLC Bylaws, regarding a new Nursery space. As you may recall, the impetus for this committee comes from the CLC Long Term Plan currently being developed and worked by the Church Council. Four members (Karen Raddatz, Erica Bencivenga, Tricia Rowold, Dora Jacobson Green) volunteered to serve on the committee and a number of other members have assisted and consulted, including Pastor and Sarah Rowold, Jon Schrumm and Randy Raddatz from House and Grounds, and Steve Feero from the Multi-Media Team.
The recommendation is to convert the current “Cloak Room” (the Sunday School room with the Choir and Acolyte robes) into the new Nursery, and make the old Nursery into a Sunday School classroom, basically swapping those existing spaces and then upgrading and furnishing the new Nursery space. The recommendation allocates up to $7,500 of existing funds from the Special Gifts account. The Council approved the recommendation unanimously. On September 13th, the recommended plan was presented in the Voter’s Meeting. Once again, it was approved unanimously.
The new space will be appropriate for ages 0 up to 5 years. The committee developed a list of compliant upgrades in order to properly reconfigure the room. This list includes new painting and carpeting, signage, LED lighting, some Christian artwork, a few new furniture pieces, a bookshelf, a changing table, a shelf with bins, and a new, modern “wireless system” capable of transmitting the worship service to the room, displayed on a screen or large tablet. Steve Feero has identified excellent candidates for this new “wireless system”.
The current plan is to have all upgrades completed by the end of November, with a goal of November 1st. A sincere thank you to the Nursery Committee and all the members who have worked diligently to get us to where we are on this important project.
Please reach out to Steve Behnfeldt to learn more or to affirm your willingness to serve in any of the ways mentioned above. Thank you and the Lord bless you!
Steve Behnfeldt
Worship Deacon
Notice of Upcoming Elections
The following Officers and Deacons are to be elected at the Voters’ Assembly meeting to be held on Sunday, November 9th, after the 10:30 a.m. service:
Officers (term of 1 year) | Deacons (term of 3 years) |
President | Evangelism Deacon |
Vice-President | Christian Growth Fund |
Recording Secretary | Youth Deacon |
Treasurer |
New officers will be installed on the first Sunday of 2027.
CLC members are invited to contact any member of the Nominating Committee if you are interested in filling an elected position, or if you would like to propose a candidate for election.
Nominees shall be at least eighteen years of age and shall be confirmed members of the congregation. Please consult the church directory if you would like to communicate with any member.
Our Nominating Committee members this year are: Jonathan Schrumm, Erica Bencivenga and Rob DeLaubell.
October Servant List
Sunday School News
This year is the last year in our 3-year series of Sunday School materials, and all of our lessons will come from the New Testament.
In September, we heard 2 angel announcements: one to Mary and one to Zachariah.
October lessons will be: Jesus’ birth and presentation in the temple, a visit to His Father’s House, Jesus’ Baptism in the Jordan, and the clearing of the temple.
We continue to meet from 9:20 – 10:20. If you would like time for snacks and fellowship, please arrive early at 9 a.m.
We have names for each of our classrooms this year. As the student grow in their knowledge of God’s Word and His love for them, they the move through the stages of an Eagles life: Happy Hatchlings – Toddler and Parent room, Little Chicks – Pre-K-Kindergarten room, Fledglings – 1st-3rd Grade room, and Soaring Eagles – 4th-8th Grade room.
We have our annual Christmas Program during the 10:30 service on Sunday, December 13, 2026, and we will have a fun Sunday on December 20th.
Come and join the fun; we can’t wait to see you there!
Tricia Rowold—Sunday School Superintendent
Parents, please remember to THANK our staff and teachers this year; they are:
Sunday School Classes
Soaring Eagles (Grades 4–8)
Kelley Collins‑Pardee & James Donewald
Fledglings (Grades 1–3)
Lynn Balash & Laura Sullivan
Little Chicks (Pre‑K – Kindergarten)
Dora Greene & Tricia Rowold
Substitute Teachers
Erica Bencivenga
Kathrine Clark
Trish Greenhalgh
Britt Lynch
Jon Rowold
Sarah Rowold
Teen Helper
Grace Muller
Education Deacon
Kelley Collins‑Pardee
Sunday School Superintendent
Tricia Rowold
ADULT BIBLE STUDIES at CLC
Sunday morning Bible Study between the services starts at approximately 9:15 a.m. every Sunday. This Fall, our topic is “Jesus…Legend or Lord”, a video series featuring Dr. Paul Maier. Jesus is one of the most written about and debated figures in the world. In this video series, Dr. Maier explores a three-lane highway to the past through the disciplines of Archeology, History, and Geography. Along the journey, we’ll be looking back to the world that Jesus Himself saw as He moved toward the cross.
In addition to Sunday morning Bible, our Midweek Bible study meets on Wednesday afternoons at 1:30 p.m. In September, we began looking at a new book of the Bible, Esther. It’s the account of an average woman that God put in an extraordinary position to save His chosen people.
Our Adult Bible studies are meeting in the Church Library on Sundays and Wednesdays. If you cannot be with us in person and would like to join by the computer, please contact Pastor Rowold for a Zoom link.
Come out and join us any time, even if you haven’t been with us before. You are always welcome.
News From Our Little Cherubs
We had a terrific September at Little Cherubs Christian Preschool!
Our Bible time is all about the seven days of creation! Please pray that the children keep these truths with them. We want the children to remember God has given us our earth.
The children enjoy doing art projects and are currently creating a scene that shows all the things God has made. The children are learning to glue and use scissors, and we have some first timers.
We started the school year off with the letter Aa and will have a new letter weekly. We sing songs about the letter and pretty much find a song for almost everything each day. We have also been reviewing their knowledge of colors and shapes.
Ms. Carrie and I are here Monday through Friday. Ms. Fiona is here on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Ms. Bobbi Jo is here on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
JoAnn has a list of substitutes in case we need one.
This school year I am helping more with the Director side of things on two of the five days I am here. Joann has been working from home, getting office work done.
We have such a precious group of kids and are looking forward to a fantastic year!
*There is a desire to connect the congregation with Preschool children. If you have a talent that you’d like to share, or you’d like to read a book to children please reach out and let us know. Maybe you’d like to volunteer in the classroom; we would welcome that.
Tracy Lennon (Assistant Director / Teacher)
Welcome Our Newest Member to the Lords Family
On Sunday, September 20, 2026, we celebrated together as Daniel Fritz Krieger, was baptized into the Lord’s Family.
We welcome you into the Lord’s family. We receive you as a fellow members of the body of Christ, children of the same Heavenly Father, and worker with us in the Kingdom of God.
Welcome New Members to CLC
On Sunday, September 20, Cheshire Lutheran Church joyfully welcomed six new members into our congregation family. What a blessing it is to see God continuing to grow His church and bring new hearts into fellowship!
As Paul wrote, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it” (1 Corinthians 12:27).
May we continue to welcome others with open arms and joyful hearts, celebrating the unity we have in Him.
Sharing Christ’s Love Through the Food Pantry
An Invitation to Give, Serve, and Bless Our Neighbors
One of the simplest and most meaningful ways we share Christ’s love with our community is through our support of the Cheshire Community Food Pantry. Every can of soup, every box of pasta, every bottle of shampoo becomes a quiet act of mercy, a reminder that no one in our town should feel forgotten.
Over the past few months, our donations have continued to bless many families. Thank you to everyone who faithfully brings items for our First Sunday Food Drive. Your generosity truly matters.
A Gentle Request: We Need Delivery Volunteers
We are looking for volunteers too deliver collected items to the Food Pantry. Delivering to the Pantry is a quick, easy, and very rewarding job, usually just a short drop-off during their open hours. If you’ve been looking for a simple way to serve, this is a beautiful opportunity.
The sign-up sheet is posted on the hallway bulletin board. Even one month of help makes a difference.
Ways You Can Support the Pantry
Here are a few simple ways to help:
- Pick up a “buy one, get one free” item and donate the free one.
- Bring non-food essentials like toothpaste, shampoo, detergent, and paper goods.
- Check expiration dates so we send only fresh, usable items.
- Drop off items directly at the Pantry if that’s easier for you.
- Send a monetary gift so the Pantry can purchase what they need most.
As Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” (John 21:15b)
Every contribution — large or small — helps us live out that call.
Where to Deliver or Send Support:
Cheshire Community Food Pantry: | Mailing Address for Checks: | Online donations: |
175 Sandbank Rd, Cheshire, CT 06410 Phone: 203‑699‑9226 | Cheshire Community Food Pantry PO Box 457, Cheshire, CT 06410 | cheshirefoodpantry.org |
CLC Helping Hands Committee
Look closely! Do you see your hands? No? Would you like to add them? Let me tell you how!
- Drive someone to church
- Make and deliver a meal
- Call or visit someone who is homebound.
Thank you to all who continue to provide assistance to our helping hands mission! I invite anyone who would like to join us and help on occasion. Please text or email me and we can discuss how best you can help.
God bless you all!
Sally Schrumm
Helping Hands Committee
Memorial Garden & Columbarium News
Our Columbarium and Memorial Gardens continue to be a place of peace, remembrance, and quiet beauty for all who visit. We are grateful for the faithful hands that care for these sacred spaces and ensure they reflect the love and hope we have in Christ.
We give thanks for everyone who serves in this ministry of care. Your work blesses our congregation and honors the memory of those who rest in Christ.
Blessings and gratitude to all who help tend these sacred grounds.
The MG&C Video Reminder:
We encourage all congregants to revisit the Beautiful Tribute: The MG&C Video, available on our church website, as it beautifully reflects the spirit of this ministry. Looking ahead, the Committee is excited to begin working closely with Rick Arisco as we prepare for Phase Two construction, tentatively scheduled to begin in Spring 2026.
If you have questions about the Columbarium or would like to learn more about reserving a niche, please reach out to the church office or speak with a committee member:
Pat DiDomizio | Vicki DePaolo | Margie Mertz |
Randy Raddatz | Bill Soulier | Beth Soulier |
Ed Schweizer | Tim Weiland |
Out of care for our sacred space and in accordance with CLC By-Laws, we kindly ask families to refrain from leaving items (flowers, trinkets, etc.) at or around the Columbarium. While we deeply understand the sentiment, our staff is unable to remove these items promptly. If you have questions, please speak with a committee member. Thank you for your understanding.
Columbarium Status:
Category | Count | Notes |
Saints Inurned | 23 | 1 Pending |
Subscriptions (Pre-Need) | 33 | 1 Pending |
Niches in Use or Subscribed | 56 | 63% of total niches |
Open Niches | 32 | 37% available |
Memorial Plaques (Purchased/Installed) | 30 | 1 Pending |
Greeting Card Fundraiser
A variety of greeting cards with Christian messages are for sale at $1 each. These high quality cards are displayed in a rack on the counter outside the office. We will continuously update the selection which includes Birthday, Anniversary, Get Well, Sympathy, Thank You, seasonal and miscellaneous choices.
After making your selection, please leave your money or check in the box attached to the display.
Thanks to all who continue to support this ongoing program.
We appreciate your thoughtful participation in making this benevolence so successful.
Contact Person: Paula Ongley
Our Sunday Morning Prayer List
If you have submitted a name to the Prayer list, please remember to give Pastor periodic updates on the people we are praying for, especially if circumstances have improved and they should be removed from the list. We take great joy when we can take a name off the list for good reasons.
Cans and Bottles — Bottles and Cans
Save your returnable Bottle and Cans. Money raised will benefit Little Cherubs. A collection can is located at the back of the Fellowship Hall by the storage closet.
CLC Choir News
All Choirs will resume rehearsals in October. Please note:
- Parish Choir will perform on October 5th & 19th
- Bell Choir will perform on October Reformation October 26th
CLC All Choirs Rehearsal & Performance Schedule:
Date | Time | Event | Choir |
October 4 – Sunday | 10:00 AM | Rehearsal | Parish Choir |
| 10:30 AM | Performance | Parish Choir |
October 7 – Wednesday | 7:00 PM | Rehearsal | Bell Choir |
7:45 PM | Rehearsal | Parish Choir | |
October 11 – Sunday | 8:00 AM | Performance | Soloist |
October 14 – Wednesday | 7:00 PM | Rehearsal | Bell Choir |
| 7:45 PM | Rehearsal | Parish Choir |
October 18 – Sunday | 10:00 AM | Rehearsal | Parish Choir |
| 10:30 AM | Performance | Parish Choir |
October 21 – Wednesday | 7:00 PM | Rehearsal | Bell Choir |
7:45 PM | Rehearsal | Parish Choir | |
October 25 – Sunday | 7:20 AM | Rehearsal | Bell Choir |
8:00 AM | Performance | Bell Choir | |
Reformation Sunday | 10:30 AM | Performance | Bell Choir |
October 28 – Wednesday | 7:00 PM | Rehearsal | Bell Choir |
7:45 PM | Rehearsal | Parish Choir | |
November 1 – Sunday | 10:00 AM | Rehearsal | Parish Choir |
All Saints | 10:30 AM | Performance |
|
Do You Know the Date of Your Baptism?
Do You Know the Date of Your Baptism?…
Well, do you? Do you know the date that you were Baptized? If you do, we’d like to know it in the Church office too. We already keep track of birthdays and wedding anniversaries, including them in the monthly newsletters and the Sunday morning prayers. We are now add “Baptismal Birthdays” to that list too. Please contact the Church office to share the date of their Baptism. As we get more information we will add it to the list of those special days included in the Heavenly Herald.
We Remember the Following on the Anniversary of their Baptism:
October 11—Roberta Hagstrom
October 11—Sia Kwayu
October 17—Alan Spose
October 22—Emma Kingsley
October 23—Bennett Tuscano
October 24—Lucy Bencivenga
October 24—Timothy Daly
October 24—Derek Henderson
Our Sincere Appreciation
- Thanks to all who helped plan, work and help out for Sunday School Rally Day. Everyone had a terrific time.
- We always want to remember to thank all the folk that help out around the church! So much work needs to get done and does get done due to the hard work and dedication of so many unsung heroes! We are blessed and thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
- We can not thank Pastor, Martha, Live Stream Team and all the volunteers for working so hard to make sure our online Services run so smoothly. We appreciate you all and we are Blessed.
- Very Special thanks to the Evangelism Committee and booth volunteers for representing CLC at the Cheshire Fall Festival
Looking for Volunteers to Run our Video Equipment
We have been enjoying the new audio/video equipment for over a year now. Special care was utilized during the purchase process that the equipment be easy to use for volunteers, including those with no prior background in sound or video equipment. Do you take videos with your phone? Are you interested in learning more about audio/video and streaming technology?
Offer your time and increase your video talent and assist with running the new equipment for an 8 AM church service. You will be helping Pastor Rowold and our Service to go live on YouTube. Contact Tim Weiland or Bill Juul for details.
We will train volunteer staff on all of the equipment and help troubleshoot any problems that may arise as people master the system. Your efforts will give you new skills you can carry into other areas of their lives if you so choose.
Strengthening Our Digital Presence on Facebook
In today’s fast-paced digital age, it’s crucial for our Church to remain connected and engaged with our congregation and the broader community. As part of our ongoing efforts to adapt and thrive in this digital landscape, we are committed to improving our digital footprint on Facebook.
Improving our digital footprint on Facebook is a step forward in our mission to share God’s love and connect with our congregation and the wider community. It’s an opportunity to reach more people, build stronger bonds of fellowship, and inspire positivity in an increasingly digital world. We look forward to this journey of growth and connection, and we invite you to join us on Facebook as we continue to spread the message of faith, hope, and love. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the digital realm and beyond.
Sunday Worship Assistance for the Hearing Impaired
A hearing assistance system (Williams Sound Corporation) and four receivers have been donated to CLC. A receiver (hearing aid) may be obtained from any usher. Please feel free to ask for one and make sure you return to an usher at the end of the service so it can be returned to it’s proper storage place for use at another time.
Fire Safety from the Wellness Committee
October is National Fire Prevention month. Even though we it’s not a topic we typically associate with Church, it’s still important for all of us to take some time and be prepared.
FIRE SAFETY TIPS AT HOME
- Make sure you have working smoke alarms in your home – one for every level. Remember to check all of them every month and to change the batteries regularly. (Twice a year is a common recommendation, and the beginning and end of daylight savings time can be a helpful reminder.) For added safety you can get units that are both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Avoid electrical fires by unplugging appliances when not in use (This can save on your electricity bill too.) and do not overload outlets by plugging in too many devices with things like power strips. When using an extension cord, make sure it is thicker than the cord for the device you are plugging in (to keep from overloading the extension cord) and do not put electrical wires under rugs or in high traffic areas.
- Consider getting at least one fire extinguisher for your home. More fires start in the kitchen than in any other room, so this would be a good place to have one. Remember to get a fire extinguisher that is designed to work on common fires you might have in your home.
- Clean the lint trap of your clothes dryer regularly, preferably after every drying cycle, and clear out any lint under or behind the dryer twice a year. Fires in residential areas often start in the clothes dryer.
- Have an escape plan for how you will get out of your home if there is ever a fire. Make sure you know the route out of every room in your house and practice getting out. Practice staying low to the ground and checking doors with the back of your hand to see if it is hot. Don’t forget to designate a place outside of the home and far enough away where everyone will gather to make sure they are safe.
Reminder: To Connect and Greet One Another
We kindly remind you to take a moment after the service to greet those around you. Whether they are guests or fellow members, if you spot someone you don’t know, please introduce yourself. Encourage visitors to introduce themselves to Pastor and sign the guest book so we can stay in touch. Don’t forget to thank them for joining us and let them know we hope to see them again.
Your friendly gesture can truly brighten someone’s day and help build a welcoming, connected church community. Thank you for fostering a spirit of warmth and hospitality!
Please Contribute to Making This Newsletter a Success
REMINDER: The next issue of the Heavenly Herald will be the November 2026 edition.
Please electronically submit ALL articles and information for the November 2026 Heavenly Herad to Beth Soulier by Friday October 23, 2026 or earlier! Use email listed in our PRINTED directory.
Thank You!
How to Reach Pastor in an Emergency
Thrivent Choice Update
Earlier this year, Thrivent made several changes to the Thrivent Choice program. While there are changes, the main objective remains the same: provide members with the ability to live generously and have a meaningful impact on their communities.
1. ONE ANNUAL DESIGNATION
Choice Dollar allocations are now designated in full at the beginning of the year. This one time designation is based on a member’s prior year qualifying product activity. This is a change from prior years when designations were made quarterly. The Choice Dollar designation for the year ending 12/31/2025 was made in mid-April of 2026.
2. DEADLINE OF DECEMBER 31 FOR DIRECTING CHOICE DOLLARS
Choice Dollars can be directed any time during the year until December 31. PLEASE NOTE THIS MAJOR CHANGE. Members no longer have until March 31 to direct Choice Dollars. Any Choice Dollars not directed by December 31 will expire. Therefore, please make an effort to direct your Choice Dollars early and if possible, do not wait until December 31!
3. MORE MEMBERS ELIGIBLE FOR CHOICE DOLLARS
All Thrivent members now receive Choice Dollars. This expands Thrivent’s ability to reach more congregations, causes and communities that are important to members. Previously, only Benefit Members received Choice Dollars. This change brings the Choice Dollar program to Associate members as well.
Thrivent continues to adhere to their philosophy to support and amplify their clients’ generosity by providing them with tools and resources to take action and create an impact on others in a variety of ways. For additional information, please consider the following:
- Visit thrivent.com/thriventchoice
- Call 800-847-4836 and say “Thrivent Choice” when prompted
- Contact your Thrivent financial advisor
On the Bulletin Board
Remember to check the Bulletin Boards and/or hallway table for sign-up sheets and information about various events!
This month on the Bulletin Board:
- 2026 Flower Chart Sign-up
- CLC Council and Voters Meeting Dates
- CLC Usher Schedule
- Live Stream Camera & Operator sign-up
- Women’s Book Club June gathering information
- Lutheran Church Extension Fund information
- Sunday Coffee Hour sign-up
- Sunday School Schedule information
- News and Updates regarding some of our members
- Thank You Cards and other correspondence
- Cheshire Food Drive Volunteer info. and sign-ups
- Information on CLC family members called home to be with Jesus
Others looking for help!
- Ushers are needed to work both services. Contact Steven Behnfeldt to volunteer.
- Altar Guild is looking for new members. Contact the Church Office to volunteer.
- Helping Hands is has expanded its mission and ministry. Contact Sally Schrumm to learn more and volunteer.
Council and Voters Meeting Reminder
Mark your calendars:
- Council meetings:
- Tuesday, October 21st, at 7:00 PM in Person
- Voters meetings:
- Sunday, November 8th, after the late service in Person (approx. 11:45)
Looking for New Sunday School Superintendent
At the end of this School year, I plan on stepping down as Sunday School Superintendent.
The Council will appoint a new superintendent for the 2027-2028 School year. If you are interested in being considered for this position please see Kelley Collins-Pardee or Bill Soulier.
Tricia Rowold
Do you know someone who is Pre-School Age
If so, please suggest to their parents that they look into our Little Cherubs Christian Preschool program. Little Cherubs was the recipient of the 2023 Cheshire award for BEST PRESCHOOL. We are: a state licensed facility, our curriculum supports State of CT Benchmarks, focus is on kindergarten readiness, there is a low student to teacher ratio and we have enrichment programs available!
Little Cherubs Preschool offers a sound Christian curriculum and quality learning opportunities that nurture a child’s spiritual, intellectual, social, physical & emotional growth and development.
For detailed information about our Little Cherubs program please visit our church’s website: www.cheshirelutheran.org/little-cherubs-christian-preschool/
Kelley Collins-Pardee
Christian Education Deacon
Birthdays This Month
Anniversaries This Month
| 1st | Kelly Lenz |
| 3rd | Mary Beth Blair |
| Grace Wilde | |
| 6th | Frank Vasi |
| 7th | Matthew Plantier |
| 8th | Kelley Collins-Pardee |
| 10th | John Balash, Jr. |
| 11th | Grace Muller |
| 12th | Jonah Tyler |
| 13th | David Zeppieri |
| 15th | Timothy Fiedler |
| Sarah Rowold | |
| 16th | Brandon Feero |
| 18th | Benjamin DeLaubell |
| 19th | Mario Bencivenga |
| 21st | Karen Bailey |
| Marilyn Miller | |
| 24th | Edward Schweizer |
| Rachel Henderson | |
| 25th | Holly Flugrath |
| 26th | Donald DePaolo |
| 28th | Lisa Finger |
1st | Craig & Rachel Henderson | 21 Years |
4th | Ken & Lisa Finger | 23 Years |
6th | Jon & Eva Schrumm | 42 Years |
| Frank & Martha Medford | 47 Years |
7th | David & Regina Lynch | 19 Years |
10th | Bill & Beth Soulier | 39 Years |
12th | Bill & Judy Juul | 63 Years |
13th | John & Diane Taylor | 36 Years |
18th | Don & Arta Dobbs | 46 Years |
20th | Michael & Carolyn Carrington | 25 Years |
23rd | Alan & Donna Spose | 44 Years |
28th | Scott & April Slauson | 31 Years |