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The Cactus & The Cross Blog


Men’s Retreat Sept. 11-13: A Weekend of Faith, Fellowship, and Renewal
All men are invited to mark their calendars for a special weekend away at our Men’s Retreat, Friday, September 11, through Sunday, September 13, in Overgaard. Hosted at Mark’s cabin in Overgaard, this retreat is a wonderful opportunity to step away from the busyness of everyday life, spend time in God’s Word, and enjoy meaningful fellowship with other men from our church community. Whether you’ve attended a retreat before or this will be your first, you’re invited! Come for a


Serving with Family Promise on Aug. 23-30
From August 23-30, we have a significant chance to assist our neighbors experiencing homelessness by collaborating with Family Promise. This essential ministry offers families more than just shelter and meals—it provides dignity, encouragement, stability, and hope during a difficult time. Your participation makes this transformative work possible. Whether you can spare a few hours or stay overnight, there’s an opportunity for everyone to contribute. 👐 Ways You Can Serve Over


Bring the Family to Our Sunday School Kick-Off on Sun., Aug. 16, at 9:45 am
Fall is a wonderful time to reconnect, grow in faith, and gather together as a church family! We invite families of all ages to join us for our Sunday School Kick-Off on Sunday, August 16, at 9:45 am This is a great opportunity to start the new Sunday School year together and discover all that is in store. Whether your family has been part of Sunday School for years or you’re joining us for the first time, we’d love to have you with us! Come ready for a morning of faith, fell


Serving with Family Promise on Aug. 23-30
From August 23-30, we have a meaningful opportunity to serve our neighbors experiencing homelessness by partnering with Family Promise. This vital ministry provides families with more than just shelter and meals—it offers dignity, encouragement, stability, and hope during a challenging season. Your involvement helps make this life-giving work possible. Whether you have a few hours to give or are able to stay overnight, there’s a place for everyone to serve. 👐 Ways You Can Se


Blessing of Backpacks and Briefcases on Aug. 8-9: Celebrating God's Calling
As a new school year begins, many of us are preparing for fresh routines, new opportunities, and the work God has placed before us. Whether you're heading back to the classroom, returning to the office, working from home, or serving in your community, every vocation is an opportunity to love and serve our neighbors. On August 8-9, during all worship services, we invite you to participate in our Blessing of Backpacks and Briefcases. This special blessing isn't just for student


Copy of Grow in Faith and Community at Adult Forum on August 2 at 9:45 am
Seeking a meaningful way to deepen your faith and connect with others? Join us every Sunday at 9:45 am for the Adult Forum in the Manor. This week, our discussion will center around one of Martin Luther's sermons, guided by Pastor Peter. Together, we'll delve into Luther's enduring insights, reflect on their relevance to our lives today, and engage in thoughtful conversations with fellow community members. Whether you're familiar with Luther's writings or discovering them for


What does it take to change?
We don’t usually eat out, but had more reason in July with family meals related to our daughter’s wedding. I was surprised to see how full restaurants were! Eating out is so expensive! Yet, so many people are still eating out. If people really were financially hurting, I would think that they’d change their behavior. What does it take to change? You may have heard the saying “Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change” (attributed to


Special Congregational Meeting on Sunday, August 2, at 9:45 am
You are invited to a Special Congregational Meeting on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at 9:45 am. This meeting will be held in the Sanctuary and will also be accessible via Zoom, allowing everyone to participate. During the meeting, the Church Council will introduce a proposal from the Property Committee to renovate the sanctuary bathrooms. The project is budgeted at up to $35,000 and aims to improve the accessibility, functionality, and overall condition of these frequently used fa


Help Us Make a Difference: Annual School Supply Drive for Glen Burton School
It's that time of year once more! The Caring Committee is excited to announce our Annual School Supply Drive to aid Glen Burton School as they prepare for the upcoming school year. To meet the school's present needs, the principal of Glen Burton School has shared a list of the most essential supplies. By donating these vital items, you will assist students and teachers in starting the school year with the resources they need for success. Most Needed School Supplies Black and


Grow in Faith and Community at Adult Forum on Sundays at 9:45 am
Looking for a meaningful way to deepen your faith while connecting with others? Join us each Sunday at 9:45 am for Adult Forum in the Manor. Our discussions will focus on one of Martin Luther's sermons, led by Pastor Peter. Together, we'll explore Luther's timeless insights, reflect on how they speak to our lives today, and engage in thoughtful conversation with fellow members of our faith community. Whether you're familiar with Luther's writings or encountering them for the
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