January/February 2010

Ash Wednesday Worship on February 17th

            This year, the season of Lent begins a bit earlier . . . on February 17th.  Once again, we’ll gather at a special worship service, which will include the Imposition of Ashes and the celebration of Holy Communion.  Please join us at 7:00 pm on February 17th for worship.

The Sign of Jonah
Mid-Week Lenten Worship

            Jonah . . . for Lent?  Sounds fishy, but it’s a natural fit.  When the Jews asked Jesus for a sign, he said,   “I will give you only the sign of Jonah.”  After three days in the belly of the earth, Jesus rose with news of God’s prodigal grace.  This series of special services for Lent explores the meaning of “The Sign of Jonah” as we follow Jonah on his journey . . . and Jesus on his way to the cross. 
            We gather each Wednesday evening at 7:00 pm, from February 17th through March 24th, to focus our thoughts and our hearts on our preparation for the Holiest Week of the year.  We invite you and your family to join us. 

Personal Lenten Devotions – A Book of Faith Lenten Journey

            As part of our challenge to become more fluent in the language of scripture, the Book of Faith Initiative has developed two special devotional books to guide us in our Lenten journey.
            “40 Days with the Lord’s Prayer,” published last year, explores, in the fourteen short lines of the Lord’s Prayer, the heart and soul of Jesus’ teaching.  Your forty-day Lenten Journey with the Lord’s Prayer is an invitation to ponder what God has to say to us in the teaching of Jesus, and – in the grace of God – to live what you learn.
            “Marks of a Christian” is a 40-day journey exploring Romans 12.  In this chapter, the apostle Paul calls us to new life in Christ and identifies marks of the Christian life.  The deep reflections and insightful questions in this book will help you explore how your life is "marked" by Christ and consider how you live the marked life for the sake of the world.
            If you would like to order either of these books for your own personal Lenten devotions, please sign the list on the bulletin board at church.  The cost of each book is $10; and they need to be ordered the first week of February to insure that they arrive in time for Lent.
More details about these resources can be found at the Augsburg-Fortress web site: www.augsburgfortress.org

Confirmation Class during the Lenten Season

            Because of our mid-week worship schedule during lent, confirmation class for seventh and eighth grade students will be held from 6:15 to 6:45 pm from February 24th to March 24th.  There will be no confirmation class on Ash Wednesday, February 17th.

Youth Group Meetings during the Lenten Season

            Because of our mid-week worship schedule during Lent, youth group from February 24th to March 24th, for junior and senior high students, will begin immediately following the worship service and will end at the regular 8:30 time.  There will be no youth group on Ash Wednesday, February 17th.

2010 Budget Adopted 

            Our annual budget meeting was held after worship on Sunday, January 10th.  The proposed budget for 2010, which was adopted, is almost identical to the 2009 budget.  Copies are available at church for any who were unable to attend the meeting. 

God’s Purpose For Our Congregation

            As part of our ongoing effort to focus on God’s Purpose for our Congregation, all members of the congregation are invited to join us at 8:45 am on Sunday, January 17th, in the fellowship hall.  We will share breakfast and conversation, as we study and work to discover the direction God is leading us in doing his work. 
            If you receive this newsletter after the 17th, please watch for a report of our discussion in the March newsletter, and then plan to participate in the next opportunity for study.  Thanks

Monday Night Adult Discussion Group

            The Adult Discussion Group, which gathers for discussion from 7 – 8:30 every Monday evening, is continuing its study in the “People of Faith Series.”  On January 18th, we’ll focus on the prophet Jeremiah; and on the 25th, we’ll take a look at “Poor Ol’ Job”.  Then, on February 1st, we’ll begin an eight week discussion on the book of Genesis.
            Our lively discussion group is open to everyone, and we would be so pleased if you would join us.  This is a wonderful way to become more fluent in the first language of faith, the language of Scripture.  So, open the Book of Faith with us and join the conversation.  If you have any questions about the group, please talk to Pastor Ken.
             

Making Sense of Scripture

            Last fall, the Monday evening discussion group spent seven weeks studying “Making Sense of Scripture.”  We dealt with questions like: Where did the Bible come from?  Is the Bible true?  And, How can I read the Bible with greater understanding?  There are some who are wondering if we would repeat this study.  If you are interested, please let Pastor Ken or Charles Moody know and, if there is enough interest, we’ll conduct this study/discussion again on a day and time that is convenient for those who would like to be a part of it.   Thanks

Dear Friends,

            It’s been cold.  No, it’s been very cold.  I know, we didn’t set a record; and, by the time you read this we will have had at least a few days of warmer weather; but still, it’s been cold.
            How do we handle cold weather?  We stay in where it’s warm.  That works . . . unless, of course, you have to leave the warm confines of your home for work.  Then all you can do is bundle up against the strong north winds, and hope that you have enough layers to keep the cold out and the warmth in.
            Actually, we do a pretty good job of dealing with the cold weather; and even when it gets very cold, we know that the cold won’t last forever.  It may seem a long way away right now, but springtime will be here before we know it.
            There are times when we face a different type of cold in our lives.  There are times when we face frustrations and disappointments and have a tough time handling them.  There are times when a relationship problem has us tied up in knots.  There are times when our health, or the health of a loved one, fails and life itself becomes a struggle.  There are times when we don’t know where to turn and it’s cold, very cold.
            How do we handle this cold?  We stay where it’s warm.  The support of friends and family during difficult times can provide a soothing warmth that helps to overcome the cold.  That works, but there are also times when we need more; times when we need to bundle up against the strong cold winds that still whip through our lives.  So we wrap ourselves in the love of God.  We feel layer and layer of God’s presence around us, insulating us against the hardships and the struggles that would try to bring us down. 
            And, being held in the strong arms of God, assures us that the cold won’t last forever.  When we’re in the middle of a cold snap, warmth may seem a long way away; but the faith that God gives fills us, and we’re confident that springtime will be here before we know it. 
            That’s the power of our strong relationship with our loving God.  May it always give you strength and warmth in the middle of any and every cold moment of your life.  See you in church next Sunday.     Yours in Christ,  Pastor Ken 

Thank You

            Once again we are blessed by the thoughtfulness of our St. Paul’s family.  We thank you for your many Christmas cards and gifts this year.  I want to thank you also for the envelopes with monetary gifts.  This year the money I received was the exact amount that I needed to renew my annual membership at Fusion.
            Thank you again, Pastor Ken

Youth attending Gathering at RendLake February 19-21

       Texting Luke 4:1-14 – “It Is Written” will be the theme around which we will gather this year at Rend Lake.  The gathering, for all junior high and senior high students, happens from February 19th to 21st this year.  Details will be discussed at our regular Wednesday evening Youth Group meetings; and your completed registration must be mailed on February 1st.  If youth or parents have any questions about the gathering at Rend Lake, please call Pastor Ken.

Basement Floor Covering

            Because of bad weather, installation of the new flooring for the basement entryway and the storage room will be rescheduled.  Please continue to keep you ears open for more details.  And if you would like to help, talk with our property chair, Dave Rahe. 

Baobab Blast:
God’s Great Get-Together!

2010 Vacation Bible School
Monday – Friday . . . June 14 – 18
9:00 to 11:30 am
ages 4 through 5th grade completed

            Set in the expansive African savannah, under the impressive baobab tree, kids will have the opportunity to listen to God’s Word, be amazed at God’s wildlife creations, and be part of a community of believers.
            If you are willing to be a part of a rich and delightful week, contact Marcia Sandlin.  Thanks

Hymns You Request

            We appreciate those who share their thoughts about hymns for use during worship.  This year, during the Advent and Christmas seasons, we sang the following specifically requested hymns and carols...

Here I Am Lord
What Child Is This
O Little Town of Bethlehem
Silent Night, Holy Night
Go Tell It on the Mountain
Angels We Have Heard on High
I Wonder As I Wander
We Three Kings of Orient Are
Shine Jesus Shine

Applying  Bible  Principles

            God uses money in a variety of ways in the lives of his children.  One of the most important ways God uses money is to confirm direction.  Simply stated, God uses the supply of money, or the lack of it, to confirm his direction for many of the decisions we must make in life.
            If God gives us clear direction, which is confirmed by His Word, then he will provide whatever is needed to carry out that direction.  The only problem is that he expects us to step out in faith in obedience to his leading and his Word, usually without knowing in full the pathway that lies ahead.
            Living that kind of life requires faith in God’s person and his promises.  It requires taking God at his Word and basing how we live on his Word.  It requires trusting him, even when circumstances appear to be contrary.  It requires seeking first his kingdom, and then being confident that he will provide what we need.  It requires – as the writer of Hebrews observed – believing that God “… exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
            Hudson Taylor, a missionary to China, who lived in the 19th century, summed it up beautifully this way: “God’s work, done in God’s way, will never lack God’s supply.”  This means that if we are not experiencing God’s supply, either we are not doing God’s work (that is, we are not seeking first his kingdom) or we are not doing God’s work in his way.
            Make no mistake about it: God is not a God of disorder.  He will not provide specific direction which he confirms by his Word if he does not intend to provide what is necessary for us to obey him fully.  But he looks to us to be willing to trust him by taking the first step, and then another, and yet another.
            By the way, has God been speaking to you lately?  Has he confirmed that direction through his Word?  If so, remember this: You can be confident that as God works in your life, he will use money, or the lack of it, to confirm his direction.

Beyond Our Walls

In December . . .
            In December, the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago received our Beyond Our Walls donations.  We thank you for giving to support the work of our seminary in preparing future pastors for the church. 

In January . . .
            January’s emphasis turns to Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.  During these tough economic times, LSSI has been especially hit hard by the lack of timely payment for the services they provide for the state of Illinois, and our donations are greatly appreciated. 

In February . . .
            The World Hunger Appeal and a food drive for our local food pantries will be the recipient of our donations in the month of February.  We have supported this cause for many years and know that once again our contributions this year will help to feed hungry people in our own community and around the world.

Letters

Dear St. Paul’s,
            Thank you so much for the beautiful poinsettia plant.  It is near my bedside and brightens my room & spirits!  Also, thank you for your prayers and get well wishes!
Sincerely, Jessie Hewitt

Dear St. Paul’s Parish,
            Thank you to all who helped to shop and donate to the Salvation Army Food Pantry.  That was a true blessing for us.
God Bless & Merry Christmas, Hillsboro Salvation Army

Dear Friends,
            Amelia Earhart once said, “No kind action ever stops with itself.  One kind action leads to another.”  It is with a grateful heart that I thank you for your generous gift to Heifer International.
            For more than 65 years, Heifer International has been answering the call to help end hunger and poverty-but only with the overwhelming generosity of friends like you.  Together, we can make a lasting difference in the world today!
Sincerely, Jo Luck President & CEO

Prayers are Extended

            Our prayers and sympathy to Ruth and Betty Darda on the passing of their husband and brother, Jerry Darda.
            Jerry was a very faithful member at St. Paul’s and we miss him very much.
            The Lord is mindful of our need for comfort and has promised:  “I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you.”  St. John 14:18

Sewing

            The ladies of the church continue to sew on Thursday mornings at 9 a.m.  We are in the process of making lap robes for our nursing homes.  We would love to have more help.  Please come and join us on Thursday mornings for fun, fellowship and a good cause.

Help with Soup & Sandwich

Our Lenten Soup & Sandwich will once again begin on Ash Wednesday.  There is a sign up sheet on the bulletin board.  Please help out when you are able.  Soup & Sandwich is a great time for fellowship & good food.

Annual Spaghetti Supper

Just a reminder that our Annual Spaghetti Supper will be held on Friday, April 9th.  Mark your calendars as we need lots of help that day.  We will probably be serving carry outs and deliveries at noon like we did last year.  So we will need more help during the daytime.

Lots of Thank Yous

            Many thanks to those who helped put up our Christmas tree, decorate it, and undecorated it.  They are as follows:  David Rahe, Jack Mutchler, Bryan Deming, Brandon Wille, Jim Brinkman, Kimber, Cole & Dalton Deming, Sarah, Patti & Cassidy McHenry, Earl, Carolyn, Brian, Shannon, Brenden, Kylie & Brady Meier, Russell Rhoades & Helen Brinkman. 
            Our list is from information given to the office.  If we have left anyone out we are very sorry.  Let us know and we will include your name in our next newsletter.  Thanks for all the help.

            Thank you to Carolyn Meier, Helen Brinkman, Donna Wille, and Anita Swick for putting up the decorations in the sanctuary and hallway.  And thanks to Jim Brinkman, Earl & Carolyn Meier and Pastor Ken for putting up our nativity scene.

            Thanks to Jim & Helen Brinkman, Earl & Carolyn Meier, and Anita Swick for delivering the poinsettias and cookies to our shut ins this year.

            Thanks to Jody Dunn and her Fellowship committee for the delicious wassail and cookies that we enjoyed after the children’s Christmas program. 

            Thanks to Kris Whitley, Carolyn Meier, the Sunday School teachers, and all the children for the great program we enjoyed on December 20th.  We appreciate your hard work.

            Thanks to Patti McHenry for helping me fold this newsletter.  Also, thanks to Patti, Jim & Helen Brinkman and Carolyn Meier for their help with the newsletter this past year.  I am sorry if I have forgotten anyone else who have helped me.  I appreciate your time.

Grateful thanks to all who donated food and worked at the funeral dinner for Jerry Darda. 
Doris Benny             Sue Duzan       Jane Coderko          Yoli Jolliff
Caroline Clinard       Doris Enochs       Brenda Gibb             Lori Evans
Pat Powers               Kathy Stewart       Diane Singler            Sandy Lanter
Kay Johnson             Marilyn Booher       Cassie Gunn             Sandra Moody
Carolyn Meier           Carol Calvert       Paula Keepper
God Bless You!
Gerry Rhoades

Other Notices

St. Paul’s week for Meals On Wheels is February 8th  thru February 12th.  Please sign up on the bulletin board when you can help.

Casual Sunday and Coffee & Conversation will be held on Valentine’s Day.  Hope to see you there.

The end of the year financial statements on in the back of the sanctuary.  Please pick yours up so we don’t have to mail them.  Thank you.

The following dates remain open on the flower calendar for 2010 at St. Paul’s.  The cost each week is $15.00 and the florist arranges for the flowers to be delivered.  If you would like to reserve one of these dates, please call the church office at 532-2353.
April 11;  May 23;  June 13;  July 25;  August 1;  September 5;  December 12 & 19

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