Meet our 2018 Council Nominees
Blessing Tawengwa
How did you come to Advent?
I moved to New York City in 2008. Advent was the second Lutheran church I visited. From the moment I walked in, Advent felt very much like home.
What has church membership meant to you?
Church membership to me is to be part of a faith community. Even when I was travelling and was absent for long periods, I knew I could always come back to Advent and be welcomed. To be a member at Advent means to be doer of the Word.
Which Advent ministries have you been active in?
I was active in the Maternal Health Initiative, the Altars Guild (Chalice Bearer), Synod Malaria Committee, Synod Candidacy Committee, Advent Strategic Planning – Social Action Team, Tanzania Partnership.
What interests you about participating in the Church Council?
I see participating in the Council as a different way to serve God. It is an opportunity to be part of the decision making at Advent, which at first seemed a little scary to me, but after reflection I see it as a way to be doer of the Word as we make decisions.
Bayardo Peralta
How did you come to Advent?
I belong to the New York Sports Club across the street, and one day two years ago I walked by Advent and heard Pastor Gary preaching in Spanish -- I went in and enjoyed the service. After the service ended, I was welcomed by several members of the congregation.
What has church membership meant to you?
It has been a beautiful experience. Enriching, peaceful, joyful, community, love, and the making of new friends -- this is what God is about.
Which Advent ministries have you been active in?
None of the ministries yet, but I actively participate in the readings of the scriptures.
What interests you about participating in the Church Council?
I want to make a greater contribution -- being part of it, participating, providing ideas, etc.
Brelyn Vandenberg
How did you come to Advent?
I came to Advent in 2009 when I had just moved to the neighborhood from Queens. I had been attending St. Lukes on 46th street, but frankly, I thought the convenience of Advent would help me be a better member of the community. I was invited by my friend Kate Swed to attend Thursday night services with her, and I found time to participate in the church band. From there, I have been a regular attendee of the 9 AM service.
What has church membership meant to you?
I have always loved being a member of a church body, if only to feel that my individual spirituality can get a boost from those that seek meaning in it like I do. As I have moved from being an unmarried young adult, to married, then to having children, the meaning of church membership has changed for me. The independence I felt as a young adult gave me flexibility to try out the many programs Advent has to offer. Having children has been more restricting, I have come to rely on the strong community to help our family stay in the church, learn and grow in faith.
Which Advent ministries have you been active in?
I joined Advent and primarily went to the Thursday night services for young adults. This was the first ministry I attended. I am now active in the Family ministries, Sunday School and a part of the 9 AM family crowd on Sunday mornings. I also serve as a Chalice Bearer. I helped the Advent Maternal Health Initiative in 2010 raise money to send abroad for fistula operations. We organized a pie sale, yard sale, and fun run to raise in total $20,000 to send to Mercy Ships and The Fistula Foundation. I have also participated with my family in a weekly music class we started in 2013. I continue to attend the 9 AM service with my sons, and I try to find time to participate in other ministries when I am able.
What interests you about participating in Church Council?
I am interested in giving my time toward helping the congregation navigate its changing congregation. I will dedicate my time toward listening to the needs of the community and trying to respond using the resources available to the leadership. This would be the first time I have had a leadership position in the church, and I am willing to learn how best dedicate my service and skills toward helping the church become stronger and provide a community of faith.