Grace Lutheran Church 1350 Baldy Avenue Pocatello, Idaho 83201
Transcription
Grace Lutheran Church 1350 Baldy Avenue Pocatello, Idaho 83201
Grace Lutheran Church 1350 Baldy Avenue Pocatello, Idaho 83201 (208) 237-0467 Zechariah. Elizabeth. Mary. Joseph. As we enter into the season of Advent, we will be examining the lives of these four key individuals who are integral to the telling of the Christmas story. Last Sunday, Pastor Von Busch introduced us to Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist. Interestingly, out of the four characters, Zechariah should be the one who would be the least surprised at God's miraculous work. He was a priest, after all. Selected by lot for a "once in a lifetime" experience, the angel Gabriel met him in the Holy Place in the Temple to announce that his wife would bear the forerunner of the Messiah. But Zechariah was filled with doubt, even though it was an angel of the Lord standing before Him! Perhaps even we can be so caught up in the trappings of religion that when God actually does show up, we have trouble believing that it's Him! We may be so inoculated against the miraculous that we miss when God chooses to act in a supernatural way. So this Advent season, we seek to prepare ourselves to hear and recognize God's voice when He calls. Elizabeth seems to have no such doubt! Rather, she is filled with joy even as God fills her with a growing miracle child. Well past the age of bearing children, she joins in the legacy of Sarah to be the means by which God keeps His promises to a waiting people. Her child, who we know as John the Baptist, is the cousin of Jesus, and Elizabeth stands in simply wonder and awe at being so blessed in her old age. Her "disgrace" of not being able to bear a son is gone, even as our sin is erased from our spiritual account by the gracious act of a loving God. She not only heard the call of God, she acted in simple, grateful faith as God miraculously kept his promises not only to her and Zechariah, but to all who were awaiting the "Elijah" who would prepare the way for our Savior. Mary also is visited by Gabriel, who informs her that she is "highly favored by God." Probably still a teenager, she is filled with wonder that she would bear a son without the benefit (and blessing) of a husband. She also hears the call of God to become the mother of God -- Theotokos -- and responds with awe and humility. Her song which we call The Magnificat, is one of the great songs of faith, joining with Miriam and Hannah and David and Zechariah with joyful faith at the work of God, who again keeps His promise to the undeserving and the unqualified. In hearing and answering God's call, she delivers a call to us all in a faith-filled song of praise. And in the birth of Jesus, we see and hear face-to-face the very voice of God in a cries of a very human infant child, who is God "in the flesh." (John 1:14) Finally, Joseph also is called by God. And what a call it is. When Joseph hears of Mary's pregnancy, his heart must have been broken. He knew he was not the child's father, and the wild story of God being the father -- well, that's just crazy. Now he hears the catcalls and insults of others. He sees and hears the voices which scorn and revile his beloved Mary. I can relate to Joseph. The insults and demeaning words of others can often drown out the gentle voice of God's Holy Spirit, who promises to abide with us, to love us, to provide all the grace we need to overcome the world and sin and temptation. So God sends Gabriel on one more mission to speak and reassure Joseph. In faith, Joseph hears God's call to be the human father Jesus needed. To raise him, to provide for Mary, to protect and guard his little family from the dangers of this world. We have that call as well. So God called each of these to a great mission. At the moment, hearing insults and getting pregnant may not have seemed so earth shattering! And you might think the same about God's call to you today. But in the birth of John and Jesus, children entered the world who needed safety, love, discipline and guidance. And when they grow up, the world is changed forever. The birth of Jesus changes everything. May He be born in you today. Blessings of Advent and Christmas. God is with us! Pastor Dinger GRACE LUTHERAN STAFF To communicate with Grace Staff; Church 237-0467; School 237-4142; Early Childhood Center 237-9386 Jonathan Dinger, Senior Pastor: 240-3784 email: [email protected] Jim Von Busch, Associate Pastor: 339-6679 email: [email protected] Chuck Buerstatte, Director of Operations: 339-1961 email: [email protected] Robert Raschke, Executive Director of GLS: 241-4142 email: [email protected] Yvonne Wittrock, Director of Connecting Ministries: 380-9770 email: [email protected] Teresa Dinger, Worship Coordinator: 226-4857 email: [email protected] Kristina Long, Director of Childrens Education Intern: 237-0467 email: [email protected] Kathy Root, Church / Financial Secretary: 237-0467 email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Anne Bopp, Grace Lutheran School Principal: 232-9403 email: [email protected] Congregation Chairman: Bryan Phinney, 238-5805 Chairman of Elders: Greg Ford, 232-5587 Church Treasurer: Angie Dobbins, 709-8298 Chairman, Property Manager: Mike Drake, 479-4880 “I Have Called You” Sunday Worship Hours Traditional Worship – 8:30 am Contemporary Worship – 11:00 am Sunday Education Hour 10:00 am – 10:45am Coffee Fellowship –9:30 & 10:45 am GRACE WELCOME BRUNCH Our Grace Welcome Brunch happens on the first Sunday of every month right after the 11:00 am service and is designed for those who are new to our Grace family. This delicious meal, so graciously prepared for us by members of our church, is hosted by our Pastors and their families. It’s an opportunity, in a casual setting, to ask any questions you may have about Grace Lutheran Church. Our next welcome brunch will be on Sunday, December 7th at the home of Jonathan & Teresa Dinger (2800 Sonoma, Pocatello). Please RSVP to Teresa if you plan To attend – 226-4857 or [email protected] Special events and services this Christmas season Thurs, Nov. 27 10:00am Thanksgiving Worship with Holy Communion Wed, Dec. 3 7:00pm Advent Craft Night Holden Evening Prayer & crafts for the whole family Fri, Dec. 5 6:30pm “Best Gift of All” Pre-School GLS Christmas Program Wed, Dec. 10 7:00pm Fri, Dec. 12 7:00pm “It’s Christmas Everywhere” 3rd & 4th grade GLS Christmas Program Wed, Dec. 17 6:30pm Sun, Dec. 21 10:00am Birthday Party for Jesus GLC Children’s Ministry Wed, Dec. 24 5:00pm Christmas Eve Worship with living nativity and candlelight “Christmas in Italy” Italian Music & Program Italian treats & traditions for the whole family “Called to Sing!” An evening of Caroling 7:00pm Christmas Eve Worship with living nativity and candlelight 11:00pm Christmas Eve Worship with candlelight and Holy Communion Thur, Dec. 25 10:00am Festival Worship with Holy Communion Advent Craft Night Our first Advent Wednesday is December 3 at 7:00. We will begin in the sanctuary with a devotion time singing Holden Evening Prayer. Then we will enjoy craft-making in the gym there will be crafts for all ages, come and choose your favorites to work on! Cookie decorating is available, and the best part is, you can even eat the mess-ups and they taste great! We will also be working on decorating the sanctuary that evening, we will need people to set up and decorate trees and hang garland. Please don't miss this festive evening for the family to celebrate & work together. Sign-up to help in the gym. Questions? Contact Teresa Dinger or Kristina Long. HATS AND GLOVES AND SOCKS, OH MY!! The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League is collecting mittens, gloves, hats and socks to be donated to the Salvation Army. We will accept any size and any style. The project begins today and will run through December 15th. You may place your donations in the box in the foyer; we hope to fill it up! Questions? Please contact Karen Swallow at 237-2774. Mark your calendars for our Birthday party for Jesus on December 21st This special event right before Christmas reminds children that Jesus is the reason we celebrate this special holiday that brings so much joy to young and old. Children of Grace and their parents are invited to attend our Birthday Party for Jesus on Sunday, December 21st at 10:00 am in the gym. If you would like to volunteer to help or have questions about this event please contact Kristina long at 237-0467 or klong @gracepocatello.org. CHRISTMAS IN ITALY You are invited to Christmas in Italy on December 10 at 7pm. Join in the fun for this beautiful and festive advent event where we learn of the customs of Italy in song, story and treats! Stop in at the table in the gym on Sundays to sign up for a Christmas goodie to bring. (We usually have over 250 people at this event so we'll needs LOTS of yummy Italian taste treats!) There will be recipes in the gym on Sundays to take home if you need inspiration, but you can also email Yvonne at [email protected] and she'll send you a recipe. Here are some ideas for the tasty desserts: Christmas Fig Cake (Buccellato), Holiday Biscotti, Neapolitans, Raspberry Ricotta Fool, Cherry Almond Biscotti, Lemon Ginger Tiramasu, Pistachio Cakes, Iced Ricotta Cookies, Struffoli, Christmas Cannoli Cake, Lemon Panna Cotta, Taralli (lemon iced cookies), Tiramasu, Strawberry Cheesecake, Pine Nut Cake, Olive Oil Cake. Cannolis anyone? (Word on the street has it that there are even cannoli kits at Costco!) Or make your favorite Italian treat and let Yvonne know what you are planning to bring! We will also need help with decorations and setup as well as clean-up. See Yvonne with your questions or to volunteer. Contact her at [email protected] or 237-0467. Out to Lunch Bunch The Out to Lunch Bunch gets together once a month at a favorite restaurant for lunch and fellowship. Both men and women are welcome to join this fun group that explores new and wellliked restaurants in the area. Everyone is welcome! This month they will meet on Tuesday, December 9th at the Brass Rail Restaurant in the Clarion Inn (1399 Bench Rd) at noon. Please contact Chris Jenneiahn at 782-9611 or [email protected] if you plan to attend so she can make reservations. FOOD BOXES FOR FAMILIES IN NEED We are excited to, once again, distribute food boxes to families this Christmas season. The boxes will contain a turkey, canned goods and other non-perishable items. We want to invite you to join in the: giving, filling, packing and delivering of these boxes! In preparation for this charitable event, we are compiling names of families to whom we can distribute these boxes of food. Please call the church office (237-0467) to notify us of a family who could benefit from receiving a box. We will need the following information: family name, address, phone number, and the number of people in the family. Please check with the family BEFORE submitting their referral information, in order to confirm that they would like to be on the recipient list. Angel Tree Ministry Our ministry to kids whose parents are in prison Pick up your Angel Tree tags on Sunday, December 7th Our Angel tree will be on display Sunday, December 7th! An Angel Tree Christmas works by connecting parents in prison with their children through the delivery of Christmas presents on their parent's behalf. A table displaying the Angel Tree children's tags will be located in the front foyer of the church after each Worship Service. If you are unable to pick a tag up at church and would like to sponsor an Angel Tree child, please contact Hanna Reichert at 244-4959. Here is where YOU ALL are asked to join the giving fun! Please plan to donate some non-perishable food items. There will be tables in the foyer for the next few weeks where you may place your donations. If you would like to give a monetary gift to purchase food items, please make your check payable to Grace Lutheran Church, earmark it “Food Boxes”, and place it in the offering plate, or drop it by the church office. We will need volunteers to help pack the boxes the morning of Saturday, December 20th at 10 am and to help with the distribution of the boxes on Sunday, December 21st after the 11am service. If you have questions, please see Pastor Jim. LIFE IN CHRIST CLASS Are you interested in knowing more about what the Lutheran Church believes and teaches (which is firmly a traditional, Biblical approach)? If so, you may want to attend the new Life in Christ Class that will be starting on Monday, January 12th at 7:00 pm in the large conference room by the gym. Childcare will be provided upon request. Whether you are new to the Lutheran faith or just want a refresher on basic doctrine, this class is for you. Please email Pastor Dinger to let him know you will be attending – [email protected]. CAMP PERKINS NEWS WINTER CAMPS NOW AVAILABLE!! Junior High Retreat – January 2-4, 2015 Come to Camp Perkins Junior High Retreat to play in the snow, eat great food, sit by a warm fire, build new friendships and grow in your relationship with God through Bible study, worship and close community. Craft Retreat – January 16-18 and February 20-22, 2015 Grab your scrapbooks, quilts, and sewing machines. Muster all of your creativity and get ready to craft your weekend away at Camp Perkins’ annual Women’s Crafting Retreat! Winter Family Camp – February 6-8, 2015 Join us for tubing and snowshoeing, snowmen building contests and games by the fire. You can bring your own snowmobiles or rent snowmobiles from Smiley Creek Lodge for some added fun. Space is limited in the comfort of the Retreat Center, so register early! Men’s Winter Weekend – February 27 – March 1, 2015 Our staff will make you feel at home and comfortable in our retreat center. Enjoy a steak dinner in sunny snow country! Activities include cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and even take a trip down the tubing run! Register online at CampPerkins.org Every Sunday morning you are invited to these uplifting and informative studies. We pray the Holy Spirit may touch your heart as you grow through God’s Word, the Bible. Groups meet from 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Our church nursery is available for ages 0-3 years old. Older children and youth are invited to attend their own Sunday school classes. Older youth are also welcome to attend adult classes. Contact Yvonne Wittrock, Director of Connecting Ministries, with any questions at [email protected] or by telephone at 237-0467. Join us for this Congregation-wide Bible Study generositymoving toward life that is truly life * Inside every Christian is a God-implanted desire for generous living. We want to follow the example of Jesus’s generosity. We long to help those in need. But, for numerous reasons, these desires often lie dormant within us. How do we shake ourselves from fear, anxiety, and complacency to unleash the joy of giving? This four-week study with a fifth week of discussion and questions and answers time explores how generosity is fundamentally intertwined with our Christian DNA. We will offer the same Bible study at four different locations: Pastor Dinger – Large Conference Room (just off the gym) Pastor Von Busch – Middle School Commons (at the very end of the middle school wing) Rod Jenneiahn – Room C-159 (in the middle school wing) Aaron Hayes – Room C-157 (in the middle school wing) If you have any questions about this study, please check with Pastor Dinger at [email protected] or 237-0467 This NEW study begins Sunday, January 4, 2015 What if you started the New Year better equipped to make wise decisions? Join our NEW Women’s study, “The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands” * presented by Lysa Terkeurst There is a big difference between saying yes to everyone and saying yes to God. In “The Best Yes” we will discuss: The Biblical view of our command to love Curing the disease of the people pleasing Saying the small “no” to avoid people’s disappointment when you’ve said “yes” and should not have Using a wisdom-based decision-making process to help with the hard choices How to rise above the rush of endless demands to discover your “BEST YES”. There is a study guide that you may want to purchase when you attend this class but it is not required. Here is one suggested link but there are other sources: http://www.christianbook.com/the-best-yes-study-guide/lysaterkeurst/9781400205967/pd/205967 Invite a friend, and sign up at the Connection Table in the gym or email [email protected] Don’t forget child care is available in the church nursery for infants through three-year-old children. This study begins at 10am in Room C-157 (middle school wing) and is facilitated by Yvonne Wittrock. These studies will resume Sunday, January 4, 2015 “The Book of Ecclesiastes” led by Pastor Jim Von Busch ** The great Hebrew King and philosopher named Solomon wrote a book called Ecclesiastes. In this book, Solomon calls us to joy, but not to a joy that is based on circumstances. The joy Solomon calls us to a deep joy, a joy that thinks and is based upon truth. He invites us to meditate on God's Word and the world in which we live, his conclusion is that only believers can enjoy the vanity that surrounds us on every side. Location: In the middle school commons (at the very end of the middle school wing.) How to Show the Love of Christ in Word and Deed to Your LDS Neighbors and Friends ** This study is presented with encouragement to build friendships with sensitivity. It discusses how to share the grace of God wisely in the context of these relationships. It will present valuable perspectives of the Mormon community given by those who have lived this experience. It will illuminate the experience of the Latter-day Saints through: •the core stories that form the LDS worldview •a window into what life is like for most active LDS members •the experiences that shape the powerful shared identity of Latter-day Saints •the way LDS members understand truth through the lenses of experience and LDS church authority This study will also explain the differences between teachings of Biblical historical Christianity and the teachings of the Latter-day Saints. Location: Room C-159 led by Rod Jenneiahn. "Crossways" – A Two Year In-Depth Study of the Bible * * * Section 5 “The Gospels and Acts” is an introductory overview of 1st century Judaism at the time of Jesus, Section 5 covers the four Gospels plus the Acts of the Apostles. Somehow, through the life and death of this lone, enigmatic, wise, compassionate healer—this radical rabbi—God’s Kingdom has broken into human history to begin its eternal reign! Many people say they would like to be more comfortable with their understanding of the Bible. Don’t miss this opportunity for a fresh, lifechanging encounter with Jesus in the words of the Bible. Crossways is a comprehensive course of the study of the Old and New Testament using the Bible as the textbook and workbooks that supplement your study. Those that have taken this class say it changes hearts and lives. With 40 units on the Old Testament and the intertestamental period (400 years between the Old and New Testaments), plus 20 units on the New Testament, Crossways serves as the ultimate travel-guide for an unforgettable, in-depth journey through the Bible. Imagine understanding the unique message of each book of the Bible in relation to all the others? NOTE: IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN THIS CLASS. You can order a book online and join right in! LOCATION: This class is led by Patty Bolinger and meets in Room C-149 (middle school wing) at 9:45AM. Asterisks suggest the difficulty of the class. * * * * * = Most Challenging Patience…Waiting for the Savior This time of year it’s not unusual to hear parents telling their children, “Have patience!” as they look longingly at the Legos, Hot Wheels, and Transformers. I noticed when I checked the 2014 “hot toy list” that nothing much had changed since I stood with my boys in the toy department saying the very same thing. But I sincerely hope that you have the same hope that I have in the hustle and bustle of this holiday season. I’m hoping that there is so much more that our children and grandchildren are waiting for. I pray that they are patiently waiting for the wonderful Christmas celebration where we are reminded again that Jesus, our Savior, came in humility to die for the sins of the world so many years ago and that we’re waiting patiently for His triumphant return when He will come again in glory. Oh, yes, we Christians are waiting but it’s easy to get bogged down by the wait. Our culture is so out of tune with waiting for anything, it must seem odd to be waiting for Someone who may not come at all in our lifetime. In the Old Testament waiting was the theme, too, if you recall. There were centuries of waiting for the Messiah: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) That was written some 700 years before Christ was born. Now that was a long wait, wasn’t it? Then Jesus came on His patient mission to earth. He patiently gave the blind their sight, healed the lame, cured leprosy, healed the deaf, raised the dead and preached the good news to the poor. (Luke 7:22) He patiently gave His life that we might live. David Mathis reminds us in his article “The Waiting is the Hardest Part” that: Jesus himself is the climatic display of God’s perfect patience toward sinners (1 Timothy 1:16). He is “patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). We “count the patience of the Lord as salvation” (2 Peter 3:15) and bank on His promise, in all our waiting, to “sustain you to the end” (2 Corinthians 1:8). But the waiting wasn’t done when Jesus came. Now in this church age, we wait as much as ever. Can we patiently follow His example of love and grace? As much as our fortitude can be tested during this busy Christmas time, can we be the peculiar people of God by showing patience in the long shopping lines, crowded restaurants, and slippery roads? And can we not be weary as we look a little harder and longer this season (and beyond) to see the needs of our fellow neighbor in our community? God was and is so patient with us. Let’s shine His light of love and turn every impatient moment this Christmas season into an opportunity to display the riches of God’s kindness. “See to it that no one misses the grace of God”. (Hebrews 12:15a) I’m so blessed that God is patient with me! Merry Christmas! Yvonne Wittrock, Director of Connecting Ministries C.A.R.S. MINISTRY Car repairs for those in need. They typically meet on the fourth Saturday of every month from 9-Noon in the Grace Lutheran parking lot. Questions? Contact Cliff Cummings at 221-4506. STEPHEN MINISTRY Stephen Ministers don’t just provide care for people experiencing a major crisis. They also provide care and support for people weighed down by the little things in life. If you’re feeling down, lonely, stressed, or discouraged, you could benefit from the care, support, and encouragement of a Stephen Minister. It’s free. It’s confidential. And it will really make a difference in your life! To find out more, talk with one of our Stephen Leaders: Lois Marquette, Pam Holmes or Ernie Naftzger. For referrals contact Bart Schuerman, 221-0181 or email him at [email protected]. SALVATION ARMY LUNCH MINISTRY CARS will NOT meet in December If you would like to help pay for some of the car repairs please donate to the CARS fund. You may place your donation in the offering plate on Sunday or drop it by the church office. Please earmark it for CARS fund. WOMEN’S PRISON MINISTRY Please continue to pray for our Prison Ministry team as the need is great. Bibles are needed at the prison, if you have any soft cover Bibles that you would like to donate please bring them to the Church office or if you would like to contribute money to purchase Bibles you may place a check in the offering plate or drop it by the church office. Please earmark your check Women's Prison Bibles. If you have questions please contact Cindy Naftzger at 716-0010. HELP WANTED: Families encouraged to apply! Everyone can help in this wonderful ministry. Serve a home-cooked meal to God’s children. Donate food and/or serve with a smile First Saturday of every month!! To volunteer call: Katie Mooney – 233-8015 Elaine Jacobson – 251-1572 MANNA MEAL MINISTRY If you have an emergency meal need please contact Pastor Jim at 237-0467 or 339-6679 or [email protected] If you would like to make a meal when needed, please contact Pastor Jim and let him know. This is a great ministry to support those who need some extra loving care. BARNABAS TEAM GRACE CARE GIVERS “Come to me all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 The elders and members of Grace have several care groups that can help with your burdens, both spiritual and temporal. We would like to help. You may call: Rod Jenneiahn (782-9611) or Randy Farwell (3685901). The Barnabas Team is a group of people who write notes of encouragement to people on our prayer lists and pray for the needs of our congregation. Anyone interested in joining this team or who needs more information about it, please call Bonnie DeNully at 233-2329. HELPING HANDS MINISTRY Would you like to join a ministry that helps with home repairs? Or do you need something fixed around the house? Contact Jim Trost – 232-5289 – for more information. FAMILIES IN NEED Due to our current economy there have been many people calling the church office asking for financial help. Unfortunately we do not have any funds available to help them with. If you would like to help, please donate to our Families In Need Fund. You may do so by placing your donation in the offering plate, mailing it to the church or dropping it by the church office. Please earmark it for Families in Need. COFFEE HOUR MINISTRY Our Coffee Hour Ministry is in need of volunteers to help set up and clean up the coffee and cookies each Sunday. If you would like to help with this ministry please contact Beth Johnston at 317-1938 or [email protected]. We can always use cookies for our Sunday social hour. If you would like to donate some just drop them by the Church office. The following members and friends of Grace Lutheran Church are celebrating anniversaries during The following members and friends of Grace Lutheran Church are celebrating birthdays during the month of December. We pray for God’s blessing on them and encourage you to remember them in your prayers on their special day. (If we have any errors or omissions, please let us know!) 2- Glenn Buck, Matt Lammers, Brad Peck 3- Darin Dobbins, Kathleen Mercer 4- Paige Porath 5- Rod Jenneiahn, Luke Porath 6- Devin Bocek, Lucas O’Neill, Erna Pohlman, Ken Tait 7- Joshua Von Busch 8- Wendy Fullmer, Ryan Young 9- Lilly Atkins, Kathy Bosh, Paula Corbin 10- Ross Besel, Scott Elliott, Deb Reiland, Michael Schultz 11- Hudson Baker, Ginger Cuttlers, Sarah Dinger, Madeline Phinney, Rick Stouse 12- Mollie Gower, Stephenie Lords, Jack Mooney, Theda Myers, Jessica Oneida 13- Sam Golay, Gina Hunter 14- Brenda Anderson, Brodee Bocek, Bobby McNabb, Shirley Melton 15- Nicholas Scheffler 16- Jenna Ellis, Wana Reier 17- Judy Keith 19- Craig Cumber 20- Lauren Flores, Rose Gallegos, John Johnson 21- Taylor Bull, Nicholas Fornarotto, Don Harcus, Cade Roske 22- Kate Prestwich, Rich Wabrek, Bill Woodhouse 23- Dan Hoffa, Preston Radford 24- Sherryl Cooley 25- Adam Gribas, Kelly Hirning, Sara Iniguez, Mike Marquette, Rylee O’Neill 27- Barb Jenneiahn, Tristan Orgill, Tracy Taki 28- Melissa Funk 29- Ayla Gillette, Lacey Jackson 30- Ryan Claassen 31- Mike Sanders, Scott Southern the month of December. We pray for God’s blessing on them as they begin another year together. We encourage you to remember them in your prayers on their special day. (If we have any errors or omissions, please let us know) 5- Mike & Chikako Sanders 7- Walter & Irma Gay 10- Brian & Katy Horrocks 11- Arlen & Yvonne Wittrock 12- Roger & Carole Butler 14- Loren & Kathleen Mercer George & Colleen Perkins 16- Ken & Eleanor Medley 24- Fern & Millard Anderson 26- A.J. & Randee Evans Earl & Gina Jensen 30- Randy & Charlene Farwell Please remember our homebound members in your prayers. If you have the opportunity to write a note or stop by for a visit they would really appreciate it. Our homebound friends are; Clara Naftzger, Loraine Frey, Theda Myers, Fern Anderson, Erna Pohlman, Jan Vier, Dorothea Laible, Paul Kratzke, Norene Fredericksen, Judy Krusen, Wally Goodell If you would like to sign up for flowers for the altar to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, to honor a special person or in memory of a loved one, you may do so on the flower chart that is in the church office. Each set of bouquets costs $20, and your check should be made out to GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, please earmark it for flower fund. Please take the flowers home any time after the second service on the Sunday you signed up for. Grace Connection Groups - December, 2014 Spiritual Growth Groups Mondays – SERMON GROUP Monday Sermon Group — Our small group focuses on the Sermon Study Guide designed to discuss the sermon given the day before. We use ice breaker questions to get to know one another better, then reflect on the Sermon, discuss and dig deeper into the message. The sermon can be heard again on our church website at gracepocatello.org. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Everyone is invited to be blessed by a deeper discussion of the sermon Mondays at 10am Yvonne Wittrock (Director of Connecting Ministries) Yvonne at [email protected] or 237-0467 Small Conference Room at Grace (just off the church worship area) Free If needed, arranged by the group (the church nursery is available) Coffee is served. :) Tuesdays –WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY Restless explores important questions: “Do I matter?” "We live with lots of things, lots of people…but do we live for something?” Using the story of Joseph, the author, Jennie Allen, explains how his suffering, gifts, story, and relationships fit into the greater story of God-and how your story can do the same. She also introduces Threads – a tool to help you see your own personal story and to uncover and understand the raw materials God has given you to use for his glory and purpose. For: All women welcome! When: Tuesdays at 9am in the small conference room (just off the worship area) Led by: Jeanetta Huse and Keri Fowler Contact: Jeanetta at [email protected] or 221-2670 or Keri at [email protected] or 241-7776 Where: At Grace Lutheran Church in the small conference room (just off the worship area) Cost: Please check with Jeanetta and Keri to purchase a workbook. Childcare: None Other: Coffee and snack is served. Note: We will not meet on December 23rd or 30th . Tuesdays – We’ll start our new book on November 11 The Good and the Beautiful Community” by James Bryan Smith — “Apprentices of Jesus are not part-time do-gooders,” Smith writes. “They live in continuous contact with the kingdom of God and are constantly men and women in whom Christ dwells. There are myriad opportunities for us to affect the world we live in.” Yet sometimes Christians are confused—the tendency could be to emphasize personal faith over social justice or vice versa. In this third book of the trilogy, the author reminds us that we need to bring spiritual formation and community engagement together. This Bible study is designed for working women. It’s an hour of your time where you will be inspired for the week! For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Designed for Working Women (but all women welcome) Tuesdays at 6:15-7:15am (sharp so you’ve not late for work) Yvonne Wittrock Yvonne at 380-9770 or [email protected] At Perkins Restaurant in the back room (corner of Olympus and Pocatello Creek Rd.) Please buy the book online. None. We buy a Perkins breakfast. Note: We will not meet on December 23 or 30. Tuesdays – Bible Study Small Group in the Blackfoot area For our fall small group Bible study we will focus on the book of Ephesians. We meet in the Blackfoot area and would love to have you join us. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Anyone Tuesdays at 7pm Rod Jenneiahn Rod at 782-9611 or [email protected] At the home of Rod and Chris Jenneiahn (134 West 600 North [north of Blackfoot]) None None We enjoy an evening treat and coffee You are encouraged to start a small group Bible study anytime! You will be blessed as you grow in your relationship with God and Christian friends as you study God’s Word! Wednesdays – When Grace Lutheran School is in session “MOMS IN PRAYER” (formerly Moms in Touch) Mom, will you pray for me? All women are welcome as we pray for our children in schools, whether private, public, or homeschool, from preschool through college. Join us for a powerful time of prayer! Praying together provides hope and strength to moms who carry heavy burdens for their children. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: MOMS, GRANDMAS, AUNTS—All Women Wednesdays 8:30-9am (when school is in session) Dari Willey Dari at 221-3883 or [email protected] In the Prayer Chapel (just off the church foyer) None None To find out more visit, Moms in Prayer at www.MomsinPrayer.org Wednesdays – We meet on December 3, 10, and 17 The Good and the Beautiful Community” by James Bryan Smith — “Apprentices of Jesus are not part-time do-gooders,” Smith writes. “They live in continuous contact with the kingdom of God and are constantly men and women in whom Christ dwells. There are myriad opportunities for us to affect the world we live in.” Yet sometimes Christians are confused—the tendency could be to emphasize personal faith over social justice or vice versa. In this third book of the trilogy, the author reminds us that we need to bring spiritual formation and community engagement together. This Bible study is designed for working women. It’s an hour of your time where you will be inspired for the week! For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Designed for Working Women (but all women welcome) Wednesdays at 11:30am to 12:30pm (sharp so you’ve not late for work) Yvonne Wittrock Yvonne at 380-9770 or [email protected] At Puerta Vallarta in the back room (old Remos location) Please buy the book online if possible. None We buy a Puerta Vallarta lunch. Note: we will not meet on December 24 and 31. Wednesdays – We do not meet in December. See you at our Advent events. Apologetics 101 — Learn how to discuss the Christian faith with gentleness and respect as referred to in 1 Peter 3:15. This fall we’re diving into the book, “The City of God” by Augustine and looking at it through an apologist’s perspective. Please email Aaron to be placed on the email list for all the updates of this small group. For: Anyone looking to deepen his/her understanding of the Christian Faith When: Wednesdays at 7pm Led by: Aaron Hayes Contact: Aaron at 241-3795 or [email protected] Where: Large conference room at Grace just off the gym Cost: You are asked to purchase “The City of God” by Augustine. Childcare: None. Other: Coffee is served. Thursdays – NEW Women’s Study; We’ve added a 3rd day The Good and the Beautiful Community” by James Bryan Smith — “Apprentices of Jesus are not part-time do-gooders,” Smith writes. “They live in continuous contact with the kingdom of God and are constantly men and women in whom Christ dwells. There are myriad opportunities for us to affect the world we live in.” Yet sometimes Christians are confused—the tendency could be to emphasize personal faith over social justice or vice versa. In this third book of the trilogy, the author reminds us that we need to bring spiritual formation and community engagement together. This Bible study is designed for working women. It’s an hour of your time where you will be inspired for the week! For: Designed for Working Women (but all women welcome) When: Wednesdays at 11:30am to 12:30pm (sharp so you’ve not late for work) Led by: Yvonne Wittrock Contact: Yvonne at 380-9770 or [email protected] Where: At Puerto Vallarta in the back room (At the old Remo’s Restaurant 160 W. Cedar St.) Cost: Please buy the book online if possible. Childcare: None. Other: We buy a Puerto Vallarta lunch. Note: We will not meet on December 25 and January 1. Thursdays Thursday Women’s DVD Study - Please plan to join our new study “Jonah: Navigating a Life Interrupted” presented by Priscilla Shirer They shock us; they shake us; they compel us to change. You can't escape life's interruptions, but you can change your perspective on them. Dive into this Women’s Study of Jonah and discover that what you see as an interruption may truly be God's divine invitation to a life so much bigger than you can imagine. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Women Thursdays at 7:00-8:30pm Judi Bocek Judi at 232-6843 or [email protected] In Room C-157 in the middle school wing Cost of participant’s guide. (contact Judi) Yes, childcare is available in the church nursery. (Contact Yvonne for the details. ) Snacks Fridays Friday Night Small Group — Check with Darin and Tera as we begin our fall Bible study. Our group enjoys a variety of studies and great discussion. Please join us. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Anyone is invited but couples with younger children typically attend Fridays at 6:30-8:30pm Darin and Tera Letzring Darin Letzring at [email protected] or 705-7718 At the home of Darin and Tera Letzring (53 Duke [university area]) Cost of study guide Childcare available and decided by the group Evening Treats served Saturdays – December 13; We will not meet December 27 Men’s Breakfast Bible Study— Join us for a Saturday morning breakfast as we study the books of the Bible indepth. We are currently studying the book of Genesis. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Men Saturdays (meets the second and fourth Saturday of the month) at 8am Aaron Hayes Aaron at 241-3795 or [email protected] In the Large Conference Room at Grace (just off the gym) Donation for breakfast None We enjoy a light breakfast. Note: We will not meet on December 27th Similar Interest Groups Advent Events – Mark your calendar! Every year at Grace Lutheran we celebrate Advent, preparing our hearts for the coming of Christ, with unique events that are meaningful to friends and family. Mark your calendar for Craft Night– December 3; Christmas in Italy - December 10; A Night of Christmas Caroling - December 17. We hope everyone can come! For: When: Hosted by: Contact: Where: Cost: Other: Everyone at Grace and invite your friends! December 3, 10 and 17th Volunteers at Grace Lutheran Church Yvonne Wittrock at [email protected] or 237-0467 At Grace Lutheran Church None We will have a sign-up list for people to bring special food for these advent events and help with the activities if possible Mark your calendar for Birthday Party for Jesus on Dec 21 This special event right before Christmas reminds children that Jesus is the reason we celebrate this special holiday that brings so much joy to young and old. For: When: Hosted by: Contact: Where: Cost: Other: Children at Grace and their parents Sunday, December 21 beginning at 10am (during Children’s Ministry hour) Grace Children’s Ministry Kristina Long at [email protected] or 237-0467 In the Grace Lutheran gym None Sign-up with Kristina Long for helping with stations for the kids Grace Women’s Book Club – Book discussion – December 1 Grace Women’s Book Club - Come join us even if you haven’t read the book. It’s great conversation and a fun time! We meet at each other’s home and sometimes in local restaurants and coffee shops when convenient and always enjoy a little snack. Contact Kristin Flicker if you would like a complete listing of our books for the 2014-15 year. Our book for November is: Learning to Walk in the Dark by Barbara Brown Taylor For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: All women are welcome! Monday, December 1 at 7pm Note: We will meet the first Monday of the month. Kristin Flicker and Tera Letzring Tera Letzring at [email protected] or 705-7716 or Kristin Flicker at [email protected] or 235-9778 At the home of Tera Letzring (53 Duke, Pocatello, in the University area) Usually it’s the cost of the book but you may find it at the library! Check with Tera or Kristin. None You are welcome to join this group any time! Pinochle Fellowship – Saturday, December 13 Pinochle Fellowship—Our Pinochle Fellowship group typically meets once a month for a themed-meal and a rockin’ card game on a Saturday night. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Anyone over 18 who enjoys Pinochle or would like to learn is welcome. Saturday, December 13 from 6:00pm to 10:00ish Linda Ferris Linda at 251-0696 or [email protected] Call Linda to find out the monthly location of the group Cost of bringing a potluck item to the event. None None The Out to Lunch Bunch – Tuesday, December 9 Lunch Bunch—Tuesday, February 11 The Out to Lunch Bunch—This group gets together once a month at a favorite restaurant (we like to investigate new ones, too!) for fun and fellowship. NOTE: We do need an R.S.V.P. the day before our lunch date so reservations can be made at the restaurant. We hope you can join us! For: Everyone Welcome! When: Tuesday, December 9 (we meet the second Tuesday of the month) at 12 NOON. Led by: Chris Jenneiahn Contact: Chris Jenneiahn at [email protected] or 782-9611 Where: Brass Rail Restaurant in the Clarion Inn (1399 Bench) Cost: The cost of your lunch Childcare: None Other: Call Chris to make your reservation for this fun monthly event! Soup & Salad – Get ready for our sign-ups in December Soup and Salad— Mark your calendars for our next sign-up in December. Soup and Salad is a meal fellowship with couples, families, and singles that meet once a month to enjoy a meal together. Call Karen or Patsy for more information For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Everyone is invited! The schedule is determined by the groups that meet. Karen Flicker and Patsy Eike Contact Patsy Eike at 238-1074 or Karen Flicker at 237-2467 At the hosting participants’ homes. Cost of the meal you prepare for the group. Each group decides on the childcare if desired. It’s really more than soup and salad for dinner but has a nice ring to it! College Students and 20 Somethings Gathering for Breakfast! Need a connection with other Christian college students and/or twenty-somethings? Come join us for breakfast and conversation. Note: We have changed our format and time. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Other: 20 somethings and college students Tuesday, December 9 at 7:30 am (We will not meet Christmas week) Kori and Nolan Wittrock and Kristing Long For more info text or call Kori at (719)251-4081 or [email protected] and/or Kristina Long at (503)307-9226 or [email protected] In the ISU Student Union Enjoy breakfast and conversation To receive a reminder text or to be notified of any changes, please text Kori to make sure she has your number. Do you have a hobby or passion you would like to share? Consider starting a small group at Grace and enjoy the fun and fellowship! New groups can form at anytime! Service Groups Cookies, Conversation and Care – Sunday, February 8, 2015 This group provides care and encouragement to our Grace Lutheran college students. We do several mailings during the school year to our students with a seasonal theme. Our next mailing will have a Valentine’s theme in February For: Those who desire to keep our college-age students connected to Grace Lutheran When: Sunday, February 8 right after the 11am service Led by: Kim Gower Contact: Kim at 241-1120 or [email protected] Where: Grace Lutheran Cafeteria Cost: Donations are welcome for food items sent to the students or help with postage Childcare: None Other: Bring your creative ideas as to how we can support and encourage our college age students C.A.R.S. for Christ – Will NOT meet in December C.A.R.S. stands for Christian Auto Repair Service. This group is composed of a great group of volunteers who help do small car repairs for those in need. We welcome those who would like to join us as we work on cars or who would like to learn the basics so they can also work on cars, too. Note: We will not meet in December but please contact Cliff in case of emergency. For: Those who enjoy working on cars When: We will NOT meet on Saturday, Dec 27th (volunteers on vacation) Led by: Cliff Cummings, coordinator Contact: Cliff at 221-4506 or the church office at 237-0467 Where: In the Grace church parking lot Cost: None to those receiving the service; car part donations are welcome Childcare: None Other: None Women’s Prison Ministry – Sunday, December 21 There are many opportunities to serve once a month at this worship service at the Women’s Prison in Pocatello as well as mentoring women through Bible study. A screening process is required to participate in the worship service and additional training is required to serve as a small group leader. Donations for Bibles are always welcome. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Other: Those who are interested in pursuing a ministry for those who are deeply hurting in the women’s prison The third Sunday of the month from 7-9pm Cindy Naftzger, coordinator Cindy at 716-0010 or email at [email protected] Pocatello Women’s Prison None There is also a bible study that meets every Wednesday from 6 – 9pm. Lutheran Women in Mission – Check out our service activities for December We are a service group for local, national, and international mission projects. We meet monthly for fellowship, Bible study and planning for various mission events and activities. The local service project that runs through December 14—warm hats, gloves, mittens, and socks for the Salvation Army (if you knit—now is a good time to begin!). We will also host the treats for our Wednesday, December 17 Advent caroling event For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Everyone welcome! We will be making treats for our Advent Caroling Event on Wed, December 17 This event begins at 6:30 pm. Please join us for this evening of fun and fellowship Sherri Palmer Sherri Palmer (226-6562 or [email protected]) In the church foyer None None Here is our evening’s agenda for our 2014-15 year schedule: 6:30-7:15pm–Business Meeting; 7:15-7:30pm-Social Time; 7:30-8:30pm-Bible Study. Watch for our post-Christmas party on Wednesday, January 14. Dog Lovers –Here is a service group idea that may interest you! Service Small Group for Animal Lovers We're putting together a Service Small Group for dog lovers. If you are interested in getting together to do a service group that would care for our Grace member's dogs while our members are on short-term vacations, please contact Tavia Baldwin to let her know you are interested. This has the potential to be a really fun group so contact Tavia Baldwin with your questions at [email protected] or call Tavia at 843-568-2044 Military Ministry – Will NOT meet in December If you have a heart to serve our men and women in uniform, this service group is for you! There are lots of ways to support this ministry this fall! For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Everyone is invited! Typically meets on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 12:30pm Caryn Elliott Contact Caryn at 221-3243 or [email protected] In the large conference room – just off the gym (a light lunch is served) None None If you are interested in helping check with Caryn for all the details Service Group – help with funerals and memorials When loved ones pass away at Grace, there is often times a fellowship meal requested. Please consider joining this group that serves and helps with food associated with funerals and memorials. Patricia Logsdon is looking for a core group that can support her in this effort. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Everyone is invited! When requested by the family of a loved one that has passed away Patricia Logsdon Patricia at 242-6653 or [email protected] Typically the meals are held at the Grace Lutheran gym none none Other members of the congregation often help with these events Join our Grace Women’s Retreat Committee in January! We’d love to have you join us as we plan for our 2015 Grace Women’s Retreat. (September 1820, 2015). We typically meet once a month from January through September on Sunday after the 11am service where we enjoy a simple potluck and follow a planning schedule (we’re coming up on our twenty-third annual women’s retreat so we’ve worked out a lot of the bugs BUT we’re always excited for new and fresh ideas!) We select our speaker, raise funds for scholarships (Easter roll fundraiser), and work on the details for the retreat. Since we have a larger committee no one is over-burdened. It’s fun! For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Other: All women are welcome! Our first planning meeting begins on Sunday, January 18th at 12:30pm Our retreat co-chairwomen, Colleen Shelton-Davis and Jeanetta Huse (2014 chairwomen) Colleen ([email protected] or 339-7889) or Jeanetta [email protected] or 221-2670 We typically meet in the Grace cafeteria The cost of the retreat if you plan to go Talk to our recent retreat chair-women for more details! Hands4Uganda – Days for Girls project Hands4Uganda’s purpose is to raise money and support the children of Rock of Ages School located in Mbiiko, Uganda. The goal is to add a new classroom for Rock of Ages school every year. Currently, a mission trip is tentatively planned for March. We are also working on the Days for Girls project. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Other: Anyone interested in supporting the mission of helping children at Rock of Ages School This group meets at various times and places. Contact Karla for more information Karla Reynolds Karla at [email protected] or 637-0293 Mission trips are scheduled at various times of the year. Contributions and ongoing support for the students are always welcome. Check out the website at www.hands4uganda.org Sunday Morning Social Hour Fellowship This service group helps with our Sunday morning social “hour” fellowship in the gym and is also invited to help with special potlucks and meal events at church. It’s a joy to feel the warm hospitality from this group. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Everyone is invited. You can sign-up to set up before the early worship service or clean up after the late service or help when needed with special meals. Beth Johnston [email protected] or 317-1938 Usually in the school gym You are welcome to make treats for the social hour. None Typically one person or family signs up for set-up and another person or family signs up for clean up “Lay Weeders” – Join us to help with landscaping projects We provide help for service projects for outdoor landscaping at Grace Lutheran Church as well as outdoor work for the needs for our shut-ins, etc. Note: We could use some help weeding and cleaning up the front entry flower beds when spring rolls around. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Childcare: Other: Those who have a passion for gardening and would like to use these gifts for God’s glory When needed; especially during the spring and summer seasons Shannon Koch, coordinator Shannon at 241– 8855 or [email protected] At Grace Lutheran or where needed None None Bring your creative landscaping ideas to serve at Grace Salvation Army Meal Ministry Your small group or family (two families often work together) serves at the Salvation Army the first Saturday of the month. For: When: Led by: Contact: Where: Cost: Other: Anyone interested in preparing and/or serving a meal at the Salvation Army The first Saturday of the month (typically once a year or when schedules allow) from 10am to 12:30pm Elaine Jacobson and Katie Mooney Elaine at 251-1572 or [email protected]; Katie at 233-8015 or [email protected] Salvation Army Cost of the food for one meal for 50-60 people; groups often ask others to help provide the meal-many are very willing to help with the cost of the meal Elaine and Katie have a detailed instruction sheet which outlines what is involved in serving this meal. It is well organized and you will find you are well supported by the coordinators if you volunteer to serve. byvvvvvv School Update December 2014 God at Work . . . Save the Date! Upcoming Events Dec 2 – Christmas Wreath delivery Dec 5 – Science Fair Dec 5 – Preschool Christmas Program Dec 12 – 3rd & 4th Grade Christmas Program Dec 22 thru Jan 2 – No School – Christmas Break – all full time preschool classes attend & extended care available for those enrolled except for Dec 24 thru 26 & Jan 1 Dec 24-26 – Campus Closed – no fulltime preschool or extended care Jan 1 – Campus Closed – no fulltime preschool or extended care Jan 2 – No School – all fulltime preschool classes attend & extended care available for those enrolled Jan 5 – School resumes All our preschool students and our 3rd and 4th grade classes have been hard at work practicing in order to present some wonderful Christmas Programs for your enjoyment! We cordially invite all congregational members and friends to attend. The preschool students will present their program, “Best Gift of All” on Friday, December 5th at 6:30 p.m., and 3rd and 4th grades will present, “It’s Christmas Everywhere” on Friday, December 12th at 7:00 pm. We would love for you to come! Re-Enrollment for 2015-2016 Registration for fall will begin in January when all returning students will receive re-enrollment information by email. New students should contact the school after the holidays for the best possible chance at placement and for information about how to apply for Tuition Assistance. Our Tuition Assistance program grants funds to families based upon financial need. Thank You for Supporting Our Carnival & Wreath Sales! Our Fall Frenzy carnival was once again a huge success, raising over $1,300! And as always, it was a great time! Thanks to all parents and staff for bringing their children for a night of fun and for working in the booths. Your support is so deeply appreciated! A tremendous thank you goes to our chairperson for the carnival, Julie Hoyle, for all her dedication and for planning some great new games and activities, as well as everyone who helped at the carnival in any way. Our wreath sales were also a great success, with nearly 1,000 wreath items sold! Very special thanks to our receptionists, Lisa Holt and Kitty Bullock, for heading up the wreath sales! The wreaths will be delivered to the school on Tuesday, December 2nd. Students who sold wreaths will pick up their orders from the gym and deliver them to their customers. Congregational members who ordered wreaths through the school office can pick them up starting about noon on that date. You may call the school office at 237-4142 to see if your wreath is ready for pick-up.