October Newsletter

Joseph Durbin
Oct 11
2 min read

As autumn settles over Livingston County, First Lutheran Church in Pontiac continues its mission of “Worshiping Christ, Serving Our Neighbor,” offering opportunities for fellowship, outreach, and worship that strengthen both faith and community.

This month’s devotional message, drawn from Matthew 9:35-38 and the writings of Rev. Dr. Oswald Hoffmann, reflects on Christ’s compassion for a weary world. Hoffmann reminds readers that even when life feels chaotic, “the harvest is plentiful,” urging believers to act with love and purpose in their families, neighborhoods, and community.

Joyful Women and Anna Circle Resume Studies

The Joyful Women group resumed its five-week Bible study, God’s Love Through You: A Guide to 1 John, on September 28. Meetings take place Sundays at 6:30 p.m., offering scripture, fellowship, and friendship for women of all ages. Likewise, Anna Circle meets the first Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. in the Munson Room, exploring biblical family dynamics with the story of Rebekah.

Quilt Sunday and Comforting Ladies

October also marks Quilt Sunday—a treasured annual tradition recognizing the “Comforting Ladies” quilting ministry. This year, members have already delivered 141 quilts to the NALC Disaster Warehouse in Rantoul, with additional quilts gifted to graduates and women in need. Between 75 and 85 quilts will be displayed through October 19, accompanied by a silent auction benefitting the Bryan Diemer Fundraiser.

Service to the Community

First Lutheran continues to support the Livingston County Food Pantry, collecting essentials like soap, cereal, peanut butter, and pantry staples. Organizer Chris Lauritzen encourages members to donate generously, noting, “Bless you all for your generous and giving hearts!”

The Mitten Tree and coat drive will soon return to support Pontiac schoolchildren, ensuring local students stay warm this winter.

Opportunities to Connect

Regular meetings and ministries continue throughout the month:

Choir rehearsals – Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Euchre nights – October 6 and 20 at 6:30 p.m.
Comforting Ladies quilting sessions – Tuesdays and Saturdays
Knitwits – Tuesday mornings at 9:30 a.m.

Members are also invited to join the Come Eat Out (CEO) group on October 28 at 5:30 p.m. at Old Route 66 Restaurant in Dwight for fellowship and food.

Church Initiatives and Updates

The First Lutheran Foundation Committee is now accepting grant applications through November 15, supporting ministries in missions, education, youth, worship, and capital projects. Grants will be distributed beginning February 2026.

The Call Committee has posted the congregation’s profile to the North American Lutheran Church (NALC) website as the search continues for a new pastor. The committee asks members to “pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance” as they await God’s chosen leader.

Looking Ahead

The Semi-Annual Congregational Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, at 10:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Members are invited to attend, participate, and share in shaping the church’s direction for the coming year.

As the newsletter reminds us, faith and fellowship continue to thrive at First Lutheran. Whether through quilting, study, song, or service, the congregation remains deeply rooted in compassion, community, and Christ-centered living.