Category: Parish Life

News stories about parish life at Church of the Redeemer.

  • Welcome, Bienvenidos, Bienvenue, 欢迎

    Welcome, Bienvenidos, Bienvenue, 欢迎

    Welcome to Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Kenmore, a welcoming, progressive, family‑friendly church in a short distance north of Seattle.

    If you’re visiting the Seattle area—for the World Cup, for vacation, or to see family—you’re invited to a peaceful, inclusive Episcopal church where travelers are always welcome. Redeemer offers a quiet, grounding Sunday service just minutes from Seattle, Shoreline, Bothell, and Everett.

    Seattle will be full of energy this summer. We know that travel can be both exciting and overwhelming. If you’re looking for a peaceful Sunday service and a place to pray away from the noise, we’d love to welcome you.

    Redeemer is a community that embraces curiosity, honors questions, and practices hospitality without pressure. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a month, we invite you to join us just as you are.

    The people at Church of the Redeemer

    There are several qualities you will find of the people at Episcopal Church of the Redeemer.

    Inclusive

    We believe God’s love embraces everyone. Redeemer is fully LGBTQ+‑affirming. All people are welcome to participate fully in worship, leadership, and community life.

    Progressive and thoughtful

    We value justice, compassion, and honest questions. Our worship blends ancient liturgy with a grounded, modern spirituality that speaks to real life.

    Family‑friendly

    We welcome children in every part of our worship service. It is a relaxed environment where families can breathe, move, and be themselves without worry.

    Sunday worship welcome

    You are welcome to participate as much or as little as you feel comfortable.

    • Come as you are. Casual clothing is common.
    • Communion is open to all baptized people.
    • Kids stay with you to experience and learn from worship.
    • Coffee and conversation follow the service.
    • No pressure, no expectations. Just a gentle space to be present.

    8:00 am, spoken Holy Eucharist

    A simple, reverent, and spoken Episcopal service of communion with a sermon. The service takes under an hour. [Exception. June 14 will be ante-communion only.]

    10:00 am, Holy Eucharist with music

    A warm, reverent, and relaxed Episcopal service with music, prayer, and communion. [Exception. June 14 will be ante-communion only.]

    Directions

    Episcopal Church of the Redeemer
    6220 NE 182nd Street, Kenmore, Washington

    We’re located in a quiet neighborhood just north of Seattle. Easy access from Shoreline, Bothell, Everett, and the Light Rail corridor. Our entrance looks like a gravel driveway.

    • Free on‑site parking
    • Accessible entrance
    • A short drive from major hotels and transit routes

    Committed to inclusion

    At Redeemer, all means all.

    • All races.
    • All religions.
    • All countries of origin.
    • All sexual orientations, including LGBTQ+.
    • All genders.

    You are welcome to participate fully in worship, leadership, and community life.

    We strive to be a community where every person is seen, honored, and loved.

    Life at Redeemer

    A glimpse of our community:

    • A warm, intergenerational congregation
    • A sanctuary filled with natural light
    • Children laughing and exploring
    • People gathering for conversation after worship
    • Pride‑affirming ministry and visible welcome
    • A peaceful outdoor space surrounded by trees

    Plan Your Visit

    If you’d like to let us know you’re coming — or if you have questions — we’d be glad to welcome you personally.

    Optional form fields:

    • Name
    • Email
    • Date you plan to visit
    • Any questions

    We won’t spam you. This information helps us greet you.

    The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, reaching out to the world.

    Church of the Redeemer

    Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world around us. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. The campus is a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Kenmore Pride 2026

    Kenmore Pride 2026

    Episcopal Church of the Redeemer is getting things together to have a Pride booth at Kenmore Pride on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The celebration is at Kenmore Town Center.

    Kenmore Pride is an extension of the Kenmore Farmers Market. We’re still working on getting clear direction from the city of Kenmore on what this will look like.

    We’ll have holy water blessings available on request in both glitter and glitter free options. The current plan to bless the water during our 10:30 am service on June 21.

    We also look forward to offering prayers and healing oil for those the Church has hurt. 

    Pride booths

    Pride booths like this can be a great outreach of reconciliation to meet hurting people. We also can give them the Good News that, if they have a desire in their soul for a spiritual community, Church of the Redeemer exists here. We are ready to receive and love people as God created them. 

    If you have a heart for the LGBTQ+ community and are interested in getting involved please let these people know:

    Mayor Nigel Herbig raising Progress Pride Flag on June 1, 2026, at Kenmore City Hall. Hank Heron is cheering Mayor Herbig on.
    Mayor Nigel Herbig raising Progress Pride Flag on June 1, 2026, at Kenmore City Hall. Hank Heron is cheering Mayor Herbig on.

    City of Kenmore Pride Proclamation for 2026

    WHEREAS, the City and the Kenmore Council acknowledge and celebrate our diverse
    population, understanding that the unique tapestry woven by our varied cultures,
    traditions, beliefs, and experiences is one of our most significant strengths. This
    diversity and intersectionality of our people enrich our community, fostering an
    environment of understanding, growth, and unity; and

    WHEREAS, we assert and uphold the principle that every individual, regardless of their identity or background, deserves to live in an atmosphere of dignity, respect, and justice. We categorically condemn and will not tolerate any form of discrimination, violence, or hate, holding these acts as affronts to the values we cherish as a community; and

    WHEREAS, we acknowledge and appreciate the significant strides made by the
    LGBTQIA+ community in advocating for their rights and freedoms. The legalization of marriage equality, the affirmation of identity, and the freedom to love without restriction represent landmark victories not just for the LGBTQIA+ community, but for the broader cause of human rights; and

    WHEREAS, we recognize with deep concern that the LGBTQIA+ community continues
    to face challenges such as harassment, intimidation, discrimination, and violence. We stand in solidarity with them and vow to fight these injustices, especially in these uncertain and trying times; and

    WHEREAS, we continue to commit to creating and maintaining an environment that is safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristics. We pledge to continuously strive towards enhancing the inclusivity and acceptance within our City; and

    WHEREAS, Pride Month is a celebration of the progress, achievements, and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. This is a time to highlight and appreciate the numerous contributions made by this community, and to unequivocally assert that LGBTQIA+ rights are human rights.

    NOW THEREFORE, I, Nigel Herbig, Mayor of the City of Kenmore, on behalf of the City
    Council, do hereby proclaim JUNE 2026 as PRIDE MONTH throughout the City of
    Kenmore.

    Inviting Hank Heron to the Kenmore Pride Celebration.
    Inviting Hank Heron to the Kenmore Pride Celebration.

    Celebrate Pride in Kenmore

    You’re invited to the Pride Celebration on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Hangar in Kenmore Town Square. This community event includes performances, activities, crafts, educational materials, giveaways, and more. This event is free and open to all. We hope to see you there to celebrate this important and significant event.

    • Date: Wednesday June 24 for Pride Celebration
    • Time: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
    • Location: Town Square and The Hangar
    The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, reaching out to the world.

    Church of the Redeemer

    Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world around us. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. The campus is a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Vestry update: Redeemer Planning, June 7, 2026

    Vestry update: Redeemer Planning, June 7, 2026

    At the recent listening sessions, our Vestry shared some information about thoughts on the future of Redeemer. This is a recap of information presented at the sessions.

    Relèven Projects

    We have a two-pronged approach to Relèven projects:

    1. We are endeavoring to rent out Redeemer space more heavily, creating a “Community Hub.” The goal is to serve our neighborhood by providing needed space while also earning needed income for Redeemer. We would love to have a parish volunteer who is detailed-oriented to help us keep track of space and income. Please see Rev. Theresa Newell if you are interested.
    2. We are investigating developing Redeemer’s land. Two developers have submitted proposals, and our committee will be meeting with each the first week of June. Once we pick a developer who we feel will make a good partner, we will then meet to determine goals and a plan. We will update you as this unfolds.
      • One is a for-profit developer interested in building housing for middle-income earners.
      • The other is a non-profit developer interested in investigating supportive or affordable housing with us.

    St. David Emmanuel

    We are in the very early stages of exploration on any possible partnership with St. David Emmanuel Church in Shoreline. We have only had one meeting with their Bishop’s Committee thus far. So, we do not have any results or plans to present yet.

    We will have a meeting between their wardens, our wardens, and a diocesan representative early next week (week of June 7). Rev. Theresa will be worshiping with them on June 14 to meet the parishioners.

    If and when we have any specific ideas, we will update you.

    The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, reaching out to the world.

    Church of the Redeemer

    Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world around us. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. The campus is a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Appreciation for a wonderful choir season

    Appreciation for a wonderful choir season

    When people express thanks to me, Bob Chapman, for taking up directing the choir, I appreciate it. You’re welcome for your thanks. However, I always remind people that a choir is a group effort.

    To emphasize that it is a group effort, I wanted something to drive the point home. Something like, “There is no “I” in team.” Then I remembered that there is an “I” in “choir.”

    So much for that idea. However, the thought still stands. A choir is a group effort. Thank the choir members when you see them.

    Keep it simple, singers

    When restarting the choir in September 2025, I promised a limited repertoire because I knew numbers were going to be limited. Then I was challenged by the choir at Christmas to do something more significant. “O Holy Night” was the successful result.

    Through the rest of the season, I still relied on the KISS principle: Keep it simple, singers. That said, we moved things up a notch.

    Here is the introit from the first choir Sunday in the fall of 2025.

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    The future of the choir

    Plan on the choir returning this fall. This KISS principle will still apply, more or less. However, we will probably start dipping more into Redeemer’s music library.

    In a standard choir of 16 to 20 people, one or two people missing any given Sunday because of illness or a trip does not cause everything to break down. When you have three to seven people any given Sunday, this can mean the difference between harmony and unison.

    We need more stability to move the choir further. (Did I just mix metaphors?) Not everyone will be there every Sunday. This limits planning for Sundays. The name “Remington Drive Irregulars” became the “name” of the choir.

    If you think you would be interested in singing, we will have a couple of pickup choir Sundays this summer. You can try us on for size. Maybe we’ll fit you?

    This is the last introit the choir for this season, sung May 31, 2026.

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    The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, reaching out to the world.

    Church of the Redeemer

    Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world around us. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. The campus is a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Summer outreach programs

    Summer outreach programs

    There will be ongoing outreach programs at Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Summer 2026.

    Because the Northshore School District already has a summer food program, Redeemer is not providing food directly to families as we did during school breaks. Rather, we invite you to do two things:

    • Support the children of NSD by donating for their summer food program
    • Relieving the lunch debt incurred during the school year.

    Please continue to support the Little Free Food Pantry and the Kenmore Senior Women’s shelter over the summer.

    The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, reaching out to the world.

    Church of the Redeemer

    Welcome to Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. The campus is a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Ministry matters: Discretionary fund

    Ministry matters: Discretionary fund

    For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.

    Matthew 25:35-36

    Did you know that some of your contributions to Redeemer are put into the priest’s discretionary fund to help people experiencing financial crisis?

    Because of your generosity, Redeemer has been able to help 11 households since the Rev. Theresa Newell began as priest in charge. We have helped people with things such as the following:

    • Food and gas needs
    • Moving expenses
    • Phone bills
    • Help with partial rent

    In addition to meeting immediate needs, Rev. Theresa has been able to refer people to appropriate resources for ongoing support.

    This is one way your generous giving enables Redeemer to continue Jesus’ mission in the world. Thank you for your support!

    Church of the Redeemer logo

    Church of the Redeemer

    Welcome to Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. We are a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Vestry update: potential partnership with St. David Emmanuel

    Vestry update: potential partnership with St. David Emmanuel

    Dear Fellow Redeemer Parishioners,

    I am excited to tell you that as part of our common goal to have Redeemer thrive as a place of gathering, worship, and fellowship, we have asked the Rev. Theresa Newell to reach our to local area Episcopal Churches to find ways for potential partnerships in our common ministry.

    Rev. Newell first reached out to St. David Emmanuel where several past parishioners of Redeemer attend due to St. David Emmanuel’s superior accessibility. To all of our surprise, the Spirit seems ahead of us as the Vicar of St. David Emmanuel, Rev. Joseph Wolyniak, was seeking such a call. He is relocating to Denver in a matter of weeks. St. David Emmanuel’s future was cloudy.

    The Vestry has authorized Rev. Newell to start conversations with St. David Emmanuel about the these points:

    • What a partnership would initially look like.
    • What our first steps of a deepening conversation and discernment should be.

    We do not know yet where the Spirit is leading us with St. David Emmanuel. However, we trust that the Spirit will speak and likely through you! Please share with us in conversation and in prayer as we explore ways that Redeemer can partner with our area sister churches.

    Susan Switzer
    Senior Warden

    The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, reaching out to the world.

    Church of the Redeemer

    Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world around us. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County. We welcome you be with us as we walk the way of Jesus.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. We are a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Donate to the food pantry

    Donate to the food pantry

    Little Pantry in Kenmore Washington

    Episcopal Church of the Redeemer has an opportunity to help local families in need. We are collecting donations of canned, boxed, or otherwise shelf-stable food for a small free food pantry in Kenmore. This is like a little free library, but for food.

    This is a continuing partnership with a local community group. They are an organized group of concerned neighbors and former Kenmore Elementary School families. We will provide food for the pantry every week.

    Please considering purchasing a little extra when you are at the grocery store. Then bring these items to the donation box in the entry hall (narthex) at Redeemer on Sundays.

    Please contact Susan Switzer if you have any questions at sswitzer@redeemer-kenmore.org.

    Little Pantry most requested items

    Items to donate

    The most requested items are the following:

    • Baby wipes
    • Individual snacks
      • Granola bars
      • Applesauce pouches
      • Beef jerky
      • Crackers and pretzels
      • Oatmeal
    • Canned fools
      • Chili
      • Beans
      • Chicken and tuna
      • Soup and ramen
      • Veggies
    • Peanut butter
    • Personal care items
      • Maxi pads and tampons
      • Deoderant
      • Soap
    The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, reaching out to the world.

    Church of the Redeemer

    Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world around us. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County. We welcome you be with us as we walk the way of Jesus.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. We are a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Relèven Update: April 16, 2026

    Relèven Update: April 16, 2026

    Last month (March), our Relèven committee met our broker, James Tjoa, and we were impressed with his curiosity and knowledge. Following the meeting, James walked the church property with the Rev. Theresa Newell.

    This week, James sent out our request for Expressions of Interest to various developers. As developers respond to our requests, our committee will have the chance to review the proposals and through continued prayerful discernment, select a developer to be our partner in this project.

    If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback to share regarding the Relèven project, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of the Relèven committee members listed below.

    As always, we hope that you will keep our parish in your prayers.

    Relèven Committee Members

    • The Rev. Theresa Newell
    • Susan Switzer
    • Jordan Markezich
    • Richard McAlister
    • Mike Howatt
    • Anne Walton
    • Earl Beede
    • Bill McGlinn

    James Tjoa & Associates

    James Tjoa & Associates is Seattle’s commercial real estate urban-infill-expert. From brokerage to investment advisory to developing homes and apartments, we provide services that go far beyond traditional brokerages and have been doing so since 1991.  From individual investors, to non-profits, to publicly traded companies, we have the experience and expertise to guide you through real estate transactions—both simple and complex.

    Relèven

    Relèven is a charitable organisation with a vision of preserving, restoring, and repurposing under-utilized faith properties into community hubs and affordable housing. Since their founding in 2018, they have become a leader in church transformation across North America. Their impact is measured in discounted rent affordability for families and charities.

    Church of the Redeemer logo

    Church of the Redeemer

    Welcome to Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. We are a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

  • Music Director position open

    Music Director position open

    Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 6220 NE 181st Street, Kenmore, Washington, seeks a Music Director to serve as an Organist, Pianist, and Choir Director.  Knowledge of Episcopal liturgy, the Book of Common Prayer and the Hymnal 1982 is preferred, as is a Bachelor’s degree in music with keyboard ability on both piano and organ as well as choral directing.  A team player with positive interpersonal skills is essential. 

    This is a part-time position with salary range $25-$35 per hour DOE.  There is a small choir with a mid-week rehearsal and one Sunday worship service with organ, piano and choir at 10:30 am.  Additional services during the liturgical seasons. 

    The organ is a 2 manual Balcom & Vaughn, Opus 739, reworked and enlarged to 21 ranks by Richard Bond in 1998. Bond provided new casework, enclosed the pipes and later added a new console. 

    New organ console at Church of the Redeemer
    Current organ console at Church of the Redeemer

    Send questions or a resume with cover letter to the Priest in Charge, the Rev. Theresa Newell,  tnewell@redeemer-kenmore.org.

    Church of the Redeemer logo

    Church of the Redeemer

    Welcome to Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

    Church of the Redeemer is at 6220 Northeast 181st Street in Kenmore, Washington. We are a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

    The Episcopal Church welcomes you.

The 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (Year A), June 7, 2026. Services at 8:00 am (no music) and 10:30 (music).