Experience the Way!

September 2025
Pastor Elizabeth Lyman,
Transitional Pastor

Editor: Kathy Americano
Volume 32, Issue 9

September 1, 2025

Dear Friends,
This poem could easily be called “How to be fully human.” It comes to mind as we begin ‘the busy season” again at church. Programs and meetings, Bible Studies and coffee hours – it is easy for me to add busyness to my busyness. What I (we) really need to add is silence and slowness, reflection and illumination. May we all find time for stillness as well as activity.
In Christ,
Pastor Elizabeth

Janie & Terry Saxton 9/8
Ginger & Marvin Manly 9/13
Anne & Dana Keene 9/14

Cuyler Diggs 9/1
Mary Marsch 9/2
Marcel Eisma 9/5
Phil Hollis 9/10
Soren Perry 9/15
Nevaeh Mattias 9/18
Mark Keene 9/19
Alyssa Americano 9/26

Is your Birthday or
Anniversary missing from
the Newsletter? If so,
be sure to let the church
office know or email Kathy@holywaytucson.org
so we can celebrate YOU!!

We move back into the
Sanctuary on Sunday, September 7th!

Serena Project
This has been a very successful project for children in need of the feeling of calmness during stressful domestic calls made by our first responders. Carol Portillo continues to accept small, stuffed toys without choking hazards. The size is rather small—three or four should fit in a gallon-sized zip lock bag.
Carol and Pastor Elizabeth visited the new Sheriff’s building on Valencia. Some photos and mention of this project made it’s way to the Phoenix area. On August 8, 2025, Channel 13 morning news did a feature news story on the Serena Project. Carol is on call for another news agency to interview her about the Serena Project and The Holy Way!
A big thank you to Carol for heading up this Outreach Project. Let’s make sure Carol knows she is appreciated.

We invite everyone to submit articles of interest to the congregation. If you have an idea but can’t put it on paper, you can send your thoughts by email or phone call to Kathy or Dee Ellis. The deadline for submission is always the 20th of each month.
The deadline for the October Newsletter is:
September 20, 2025

The printed church directory is now available. They are in the Narthex. The directories are free; however, if you are able, we would appreciate a donation of $1.00/directory to cover the cost of production.
If you would like to have the directory emailed to you, let Dee Ellis know: dmtrellis@comcast.net or call (520) 270-8367.
Also let us know if there are any changes/corrections that should be made to the directory.

Worship Service is Sundays
at 9:30 a.m.
And you can access the Order of Worship at:
www.HolyWayTucson.org
Click on the Worship tab, then Order of Worship tab.
You can also Zoom the Service. Zoom login information is:
Sunday Worship Service
9:30 am
This is a recurring meeting at:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89894298024?pwd=jCrRhRWcbbw81KGI2ujdpB4HTaEhZm.1
Meeting ID: 898 9429 8024
Passcode: 189007

Sermons are now available online anytime! Check out
the latest Sermon or even
past Sermons.
1. Go to: www.holywaytucson.org
2. Click on “Sermons”

Sunday Fellowship
We are restarting Fellowship time after service in September.
Here’s the schedule:
9/7: After Service, Ranch House
9/14: Little Mexico Steak House
9:21: After Service, Ranch House
9/28: On your own
In order to continue this event, we will need volunteers to help set up, clean up, make coffee and bring goodies. A sign up sheet is in the back of the Sanctuary.

Handcraft Group
Every Monday, 10 am-noon
Conference Room
Choir Rehearsal
Thursdays 10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. &
Sundays 8:30 a.m.-9:15 a.m.,
Congregational Life Committee
Sunday, September 7, 2025
10:45 a.m., Conference Room
Worship & Music Committee
Monday, September 8, 2025
1:00 p.m., Conference Room/Zoom
Session
Tuesday, September 9, 2025,
1:00 p.m., Conference Room/Zoom
Outreach/Mission Committee
Sunday, September 14, 2025
10:45 a.m., Conference Room
Finance Committee
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
10:30 a.m. Conference Room
Deacons
Sunday, September 21, 2025
10:45 a.m. Conference Room/Zoom
Buildings & Grounds Committee
To Be Determined

Come meet in the
Conference Room &
On Zoom

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89894298024?pwd=jCrRhRWcbbw81KGI2ujdpB4HTaEhZm.1

Bible Study is restarting Tuesday, September 9, and meeting every Tuesday from 10 am to 11 am in the Conference Room.

On September 5, 1882, the first Labor Day parade was in lower Manhattan with 25,000 union workers and their families lining the streets, President Grover Cleveland signed Labor Day as a federal holiday on Jun 30, 1894. It is a celebration of workers’ achievements.

As of August 27, 2025,
we have:
Pledged: $34,970
and
Received:
$24,750.00

Our Capital Campaign
Continues!
It is not too late to send in a pledge for the
Jim Kinion Memorial
Air Conditioning Fund.
We are hoping to have enough pledges over three years to cover the $75,000 needed to replace the 30-year-old air conditioning/heating system in the sanctuary. Please be as generous as you can be. Pledges can be a one-time pledge or spread over three years.

Session Zoom Link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88345528016?pwd=EyBamv70Fdm9KetOaTvxg7
Snh8BGvM.1
Meeting ID: 883 4552 8016
Passcode: 746503
Deacons Zoom Link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83777006220?pwd=7ZUWFuSu9SZebsek4ehv9PXNIDMz2M.1
Meeting ID: 837 7700 6220
Passcode: 382804

Just to clarify—when writing checks to The Holy Way, be sure to indicate on the memo line where the contribution is to go: i.e., tithe, mission project, Jim Kinion AC fund, Diaper Bank, etc.

We now have online giving available! Follow the instructions below to get your online giving started. You can even set it up to automatically donate every month so you don’t even have to think about it.
Or you can download the Vanco app from your Google or Apple store and enter the invitation code:
ND9UJ2
Get started by scanning the QR code:

Our Birthday Fund
Returns To Its Roots.
The birthday fund was originally used to help pay off the mortgage of the church and to assist in general repairs. It has been used for many things since that time, but Session has decided that it will be earmarked to assist in replacing the parking lot surface. In addition to the gifts marking each person’s birthday or anniversary, please consider giving an additional $40 gift in honor of The Holy Way’s 40th anniversary!

Altar Valley Back to School
supply drive was a huge success!

School supply needs are present throughout the school year. Keep in mind that $25 gift cards, paper, pencils (!), erasers, hand sanitizer, and Kleenexes are always appreciated.

Teachers appreciate collored paper and Expo markers.

Health Benefits of
Knitting and Crochet
Research shows that the benefits of repetitive motion is true for crocheting and knitting, Here’s what I found on Knit and Note web site about this handcraft.
—It stimulates brain function to improve memory, attention, and problem solving.
—Reduces stress and anxiety, similar to yoga. There is a drop in the heart rate and the stress hormone cortisol. It helps to relax and zone out.
—Improves your mood by encouraging mindfulness and a meditative state.
—Helps to improve fine motor skills and hand dexterity—important for those of us with arthritis.
—A study at the University of Gothenburg indicates it helps to manage stress by bringing in a sense of calmness and purpose.
—By working with a pattern, it helps with problem solving skills by improved focus and attention to detail.
—Boosts mood and sense of accomplishment. After completing a project there is a boost of the feel good chemical dopamine.
—Fosters social interaction by in-person groups or by joining a digital community.
—Boosts cognitive skills and memory by helping to keep the mind sharp and agile.

Hand Craft Group
After the long hot summer—well it’s still hot!—the Monday Hand Craft group will start meeting again in September.
We meet in the conference room on Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon. It’s a great time to get together and talk about our projects or problem solve a pattern—or just to sit and chat!.
Be sure to read the Health Benefits of repetitive crafts such as knitting and crochet on this page. In addition to these benefits, you can make small stuffed toys for the Serena Project, or homeless children and parents, or even make some special Christmas projects.
Last year, we made Christmas angels with ribbon and a glue gun. The entire conference room glowed with glitter!
Some of us make scarves and lap robes for the Prayer Shawl Ministry.
If you want to learn to knit or crochet, we will be happy to teach.
It doesn’t have to be knitting or crochet. Any small project you can put in a bag and carry with you is welcome. We are always open to new crafts!
Dee Ellis

And………..we will always accept hand made shawls or lap robes to keep in our supply closet. At this time, we especially need lap robes. Men usually prefer a lap robe more than a shawl!
You can look up more information, patterns and prayers at shawlministry.com.
These shawls must be hand made with the creator of the mantel saying prayers for the recipient.
“Shawls ... made for centuries universal and embracing, symbolic of an inclusive, unconditionally loving, God. They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace,, mother, hug, shelter and beautify. Those who have received these shawls have been uplifted and affirmed, as if given wings to fly above their troubles..."
Written in 1998 by: Janet Severi Bristow
Copyright ©2023
We gave out three shawls last month!
If you know of anyone who would benefit from spiritual comfort of a Prayer Shawl or lap robe, let Kathy (520) 965-2249 or Kathy@holywaytucson.org, or Dee Ellis (520) 270-8367 or dmtrellis@comcast.net.
The prayer shawl squares remain available for anyone to pick up or for yourself or to give as a gift.
And………..we will always accept hand made shawls or lap robes to keep in our supply closet. At this time, we especially need lap robes. Men usually would rather have a lap robe than a shawl!
You can look up more information, patterns and prayers at shawlministry.com.
These shawls must be hand made with the creator of the mantel saying prayers for the recipient.
“Shawls ... made for centuries universal and embracing, symbolic of an inclusive, unconditionally loving, God. They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace,, mother, hug, shelter and beautify. Those who have received these shawls have been uplifted and affirmed, as if given wings to fly above their troubles..."
Written in 1998 by: Janet Severi Bristow Copyright ©2023

Food Bank Needs

The need for food in our community is great. Our church has been very generous. However, with the migration of the snowbirds, our food supply is low.
Once a month a batch of donated food is given to Sells Presbyterian Church.
It may be Summer but the Food Bank is still in need of nonperishable foods. When you go food shopping, pick up a can or two extra for the Food Bank. Thank you for helping the Sells Presbyterian Church and community.
We keep a cabinet of food in the Ranch House that is available to our church members and anyone in the community who needs food.
We thank you for being generous with your food donations of nonperishable foods. Please, no expired dates.

LOCAL FOOD BANKS
For those in need of regular food assistance, there are other food banks in our area in which there is an additional source of obtaining food:
Tucson Mountain Baptist Church
Food Pantry Mission
5757 West Ajo Highway
(529) 883-1234
Tuesdays & Thursdays
3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Community Food Bank
3003 S. Country Club Road
(520) 622-0525
Tues & Wed: 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Thursdays: 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
4th Saturdays: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Volunteers Needed!
Everything seems to slow down during the heat of our Arizona summer and with our snowbirds leaving for cooler climates. However, the work of the church keeps chugging on year round. Please take some time to consider joining one of our committees or volunteering to help with some of our mission projects.
Here are some options:
Congregational Life is headed by Bill Boals. This committee works to promote fellowship options for our congregation. Some of these options are: game night, fellowship, second Sunday lunch, pot lucks, Book Barn trips. This committee meets the first Sunday of the month, after church, on odd months.
Outreach/Mission is headed by Joe Riegert. The Outreach/Mission Committee NEEDS Your Help: In complying with Jesus’ demand on us when he said: “38And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? 39And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ 40And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family you did it to me.” (Mattthew 25:38-40) Our Committee tries to comply with Jesus demands as we help those in need in our

community and as far as we can reach. This is a large task for us (The people of The Holy Way Presbyterian Church) and we need your help! We meet the 3rd Sunday of each month after Church. Please join us! Or Contact any of our committee members for more information. Looking forward to seeing and talking with you.
Building and Grounds needs a leader. In addition to the general physical works of the church, the church cleaning crew also falls under this committee. If you have skills for building and grounds upkeep, please consider sharing your skills, especially if you would be willing to take over leadership in this committee.

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

If you are willing to spend a couple hours every other week, we need 2 or 3 folks to help clean the church. Instructions and supplies are provided. It’s not as hard as it seems. Let Kathy know in the office if you can help here.

It isn’t too late to bring in school supplies or Walmart gift certificates for Three Points. School is in session. Once again our Mission Committee is supporting school supplies for Three Points. Wendy has placed a container in the Ranch House to accept anything you can donate.
The social worker collects gift certificates to give to parents to help provide for school essentials, such as shoes. Wendy recommends $25 gift certificates from Walmart.

Other school items needed are:
#2 pencils (always in demand)
Pencil top erasers
Colored pencils
College rule notebooks
2-pocket folders
Backpacks (sturdy for older
students)
Kleenex
Hand sanitizer
Colored copy paper
Clorox wipes
Expo markers (colored & black)
Highlighters

"Tzeh-dah-KAH

Diaper Bank
Be sure to remember donations to the Diaper Bank. We accept feminine hygiene products as well as adult incontinence products, including moist towelettes. If you would rather donate money (they can buy $3 worth of product for every $1 in cash), please earmark your check “Diaper Bank.”
You can drop off your donations in the Narthex or in the Ranch House.

Tzedakah is the Hebrew word that means charity. Some households will designate a container in which to place money. When the box is full, they give the container of money to a favorite charity or family in need.
Several years ago, our Mission Committee purchased a Tzedakah Box so that members and guests of our congregation can place money (coins or folded type) in it. The monies collected go toward supporting upcoming community events.
Since Covid 19 many people do not carry much cash with them. If you would like to support the Tzedaka box idea but do not have any cash burning a hole in your pocket, you can designate your monetary support by writing Tzedakah box on your check .

Tzedakah Box

With some help, the Kingdom Seekers placed coins in the Tzedakah Box! A great lesson in sharing God’s gifts!

Defibrillation Class
AED: Automated External Defbrillator
On August 13, six people attended the CPR refresher course and to learn how to use the AED. Thank you, Mike Buglewicz, for obtaining a donated AED and for organizing this very valuable event. And thank you to Robert Matthews from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department for teaching the class. Our AED is located in the Narthex next to the name tag cabinet. If the cabinet is open, the left door of the cabinet will cover the AED. A manual for our HeartSine Samaritan 360P is in the cabinet with the AED.
Once turned on (Step #1) the machine will analyze the heart rhythm and tell you what the next step is to take.
If anyone in our building collapses and is in need of being shocked, bare skin must be exposed. If you are not actively involved in the resuscitation process, please leave the area and give privacy and room to move about to the people involved.

Another class or two will be scheduled sometime this winter after our snow birds return. The maximum size of the class is ten people.

Interested in finding out more about membership at The Holy Way? Please join Pastor Elizabeth after church on September 28th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to explore joining our family. Lunch will be provided. Please talk to Pastor Elizabeth for more details.

Sheila Martin and Dee Ellis are heading up this year’s Trunk or Treat. A sign up sheet will be in the Narthex in September and October. It’s a lot of fun! It will be early afternoon on 10/25/2025. Decorate yourself (optional) and your trunks. Bring candy and feed the goblins! Or……..just come and watch the little-ins in their fashionable attire!

SESSION at THE HOLY WAY Presbyterian Church
Committee Name Elder E-Mail Telephone
Worship Music Committee Terry Saxton terrysaxton215@gmail.com (612) 396-7099
Christian Education Dearwyn Knittel mdknittel@gmail.com (520) 400-5306
Buildings & Grounds Larry Breuer LRBreuer@gmail.com (740) 444-9168
Congregational Life Bill Boals boalsesrher21@gmail.com (520) 543-2119
Outreach/Mission Committee Joe Riegert jgr_jkr@msn.com (520) 861-5390
Finance/Stewardship Sheila Perry perrysheila1959@gmail.com (707) 419-2585
Treasurer Char Bowring dncbowring@bcglobal.net (520) 883-1642
Clerk of Session Larry Breuer LRBreuer@gmail.com (740) 444-9168
Temporary Clerk of Session Kathy Americano Kathy@holywaytucson.org (520) 965-2249
Nominating Committee Carol Portillo waterbug1966@yahoo.com (480) 686-5531

BOARD OF DEACONS THE HOLY WAY Presbyterian Church
Deacon E-mail Telephone
Emma Buglewicz mbuglewicz@aol.com (520) 444-3266
Rick Dees blessed4life26@gmail.com (520) 730-4300
Marilyn Hilliard mhilliard50@yahoo.com (763) 516-7686
Paulette Johnson PJ-Scorcher-65@Live.com (480) 789-9423
Mary Langerak Langerak@paulbunyan.net (218) 766-1774
Sheila Martin denshem11@MSN.com (520) 576-3722
Soren Perry sorenperry@hotmail.com (707) 704-1296
Leaders E-Mail Telephone
Jan Martin MartinJR146@yahoo.com (707) 438-5716
Marilyn Hilliard Mhilliard50@yahoo.com (763) 516-7686

Prayer Chain

Financial Spotlight

In March our
Contributions totaled
$10,644.32
Our Expenses totaled
$35,554.04
(Please note that $14,250.00 of this was a new AC unit.)
$24,909.72
was taken from the Church’s General Fund.
As of March 31, 2025, the Church bank account
had a balance of
$78,993.20

Be sure to check out The Holy Way’s Facebook page every week. Carol has worked very hard to keep it updated.

Tzedakah is the Hebrew word that means charity, and at its heart it means righteous, fairness, and justice. These boxes are used to collect donations for a specific charity, and our box will be used to collect donations for upcoming community events.
Our Tzedakah box is located in the Narthex on the table next to the office door.

Prayer Shawl Ministry
If you knit or crochet, we invite you to make and contribute prayer shawls and/or lap robes. If you have questions, contact Dee Ellis (520) 270-8367 or email at dmtrellis@comcast.net.