 The Oregon/SW Washington fundraising banquet on October 24th was a great success, with more than 320 of our faithful supporters turning out. Our banquet theme this year was Journeys to Joy.
Our M.C., “Your Northwest Garden” hostess Anne Jaeger, was humorous yet caring as she guided us through the evening’s journey. The invocation was given by Pastor Matthew Eagan of Calvary Lutheran Church in Hillsboro. During the meal we showed videos of our past banquet guests, much to the delight of those in attendance.
Our LCS President/CEO Roberta Nestaas and Portland/Vancouver Area Director Salah Ansary, spoke about the important work of Lutheran Community Services Northwest. Roberta also presented Gordon Merseth with the LCS Foundation award for his service to LCS. Gordon told us the reasons he works with LCS on the foundation and why he felt it was important. He inspired us all.
LCMS Northwest District President Paul Linnemann was the featured speaker and spoke to us about all of our journeys through life. President Linnemann told of his own journey as a teacher, Director of Christian Education, Lutheran social services counselor, and Pastor. He reminded us of the Lutheran responsibility to serve, and that we are responsible for the successful ministry of Lutheran Community Services in the Northwest.
Mieke Appel provided the music this year with a rendition of Amazing Grace and a medley of Peter Paul and Mary songs that included a sing-along for everyone and a few requests from the audience.
Our final speaker was Rachel Barnett. Ms. Barnett is a past client of our HopeSpring program, and gave a moving account of how she got there and where she is today. She shared her story of abuse and her journey from abuse to a college degree, a job, and a brand new husband and wonderful family. She moved our audience to a standing ovation.
The closing prayer was given by Pastor Dan Wehrspan of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Portland.
All in all we had a beautiful banquet, raising more than $130,000 to support the work of LCS. What a blessing from our wonderful supporters!
What a fantastic journey we shared together on this evening.
For those who were not able to join us, gifts to support LCS are gratefully accepted year-round. A quick, easy way to give is possible on our Online Donation Page. Use the pull-down menu to designate your gift to the Portland, Beaverton, Prineville, Klamath Falls, McMinnville, or Astoria office.
Thanks so much to our generous sponsors and gracious givers for helping make our banquet such a success! |
