Announcements for October 12 2025

ALTAR FLOWERS
The altar flowers are given by Steve Kesler to the glory of God and in memory of his beloved mother on her birthday.

CONFIRMATION CLASSES
Confirmation classes, which are open to anyone in grades 6 and up, will continue on October 19. The theme this year is the Small Catechism, and Baptism is the topic for this class.
On the Sundays when classes are held, students are strongly encouraged to attend worship service at 11:00 A.M., bring a bag lunch and water bottle, and come prepared to learn from 12:30 P.M. to 2:30 P.M.

THIRD THURSDAY AT POMARIA
The next Third Thursday dinner at Pomaria Lutheran Church is Thursday, October 16 from 6:30-8:00 P.M. They bless the food and begin serving at 6:30 P.M. with some people arriving as they are able to come. The speaker will be Cali Sandel who is the Director of Community Integration at the nonprofit Able SC. Cali, who has limited sight since birth, uses a seeing eye dog.
There is no charge for the meal, but there will be a Love Offering basket for Able SC. If you plan to attend, please let Rita Boozer know by calling or texting her at 803-924-5645.

MINI – VBS
Our next Mini – VBS will be Thursday, October 23, 2025, beginning at noon. The theme for October is The Prodigal Son.

FISH FRY
LMM’s Fall Fish Fry will be held on Thursday, October 30 beginning at 6:00 P.M. Please invite your neighbors and friends. Donations of desserts are requested.
Note: Carry out plates may be picked up beginning at 5:30 P.M.

BUDGET MEETING
On Sunday, October 26, there will be a meeting following worship, to provide comments and suggestions for the 2026 budget. Please plan to attend and provide your valuable input.

CHARITABLE DEDUCTIONS IN 2026
There are several key changes to charitable deductions for 2026. First, individuals taking the standard deduction can also deduct up to $1,000 for cash contributions ($2,000 for married filing jointly). South Carolina has not yet passed conforming legislation, so it is still uncertain as to whether they will allow the deduction from income.
Those at least age 70 ½ might donate by making qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) from their IRA account for their regular offerings and also donate by cash or check for special projects/purposes. They would not pay income taxes on any of their donations up to the allowed limits.
A new 0.5% AGI (adjusted gross income) floor will apply to itemized charitable contributions, meaning deductions can only be claimed to the extent that contributions exceed this threshold.