“We know that we all possess knowledge. KNOWLEDGE PUFFS UP – BUT LOVE BUILDS UP. The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. But the man who loves God is known by GOD”. I COR. 8:1-3
Distinguished New Testament Professor Jack Mac Gorman GRUMBLERS and faultfinders, they follow their own evil de- told of a missionary and his son walking down a jungle trail sires”. (JUDE 16). Moreover, they may quote to me from with a native pastor. They came upon a pile of medicine the Book of James: “Don’t GRUMBLE against each other, sticks planted by a witch doctor in the trail. It was an at- brothers, or you will be judged. The JUDGE is standing at tempt to transfer the illness of the witch doctor’s patient to the door. (JAMES 5:9) some unwitting passerby who stepped over them. The mis- sionary and his son made sport of jumping over the sticks. Knowing these New Testament passages how can I claim the But the native pastor made a wide detour around them say- liberty to indulge in a personal pleasure that I know will hurt ing, “My head KNOWS there is nothing to that, but my feet someone else? Christian love tempers Christian liberty. don’t KNOW IT!” Jesus taught this before Paul did; saying in Mark’s Gospel, The key to Christian living in a pagan culture is LOVE not “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all KNOWLEDGE. KNOWLEDGE TENDS TO PUFF US UP – your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” LOVE BUILDS UP. It edifies the one loved and the one lov- Then the Lord immediately added: “The second is this: “Love ing. It often has been said – and rightly so, - that people do your neighbor as yourself.” (MARK 12:29-31) LOVE GOD; not care how much you know – until they know how much LOVE OTHERS there is no commandment greater than you care. these.
Here, in exactly the middle of his first letter to the Corinthi- Harry Ironside was an itinerant Bible teacher early in the last ans, St. Paul makes it clear we are to love God and love oth- century. Ironside, while in Pakistan, converted to Christianity ers, ESPECIALLY OUR WEAKER SISTERS and BROTHERS. a young former Muslim tea merchant who increasingly grew in his faith. The young man’s name was Ali. The Corinthian Christians had written to St. Paul about sev- eral concerns, including the issue of eating food sacrificed to At a celebration of Epiphany which is more observed in the idols. Some thought it scandalous; others thought it perfectly eastern Christian Church than in the west a young lady came O.K. Idols, after all, are not real gods. Paul found both posi- around with a tray of sandwiches. Because the selection of tions a little off the mark. Knowledgeable Christians know sandwiches was two kinds of pork, Ali declined. The young there is no God but one. An idol is nothing, and there is but serving lady said, “Why, Mr. Ali, as a baptized Christian you one Lord, Jesus Christ. As important as that knowledge is – surprise me. Are you so under the law that you cannot eat love for God is greater. Knowledge tends to inflate the ego. pork? Don’t you know that a Christian is at liberty to eat any The starting point in the CHRISTIAN life is not knowledge kind of meat?” but a relationship of love for the Lord. “I am at liberty, my dear young lady to eat it,” said Ali, “but I Christian love compels us to live our lives WITH DUE CON- am also at liberty to leave it alone.” My old father, 80 years SIDRATION FOR EVERY ONE FOR WHOM CHRIST DIED old, is still a Muslim. Every three years, I go back to Pakistan – especially those whose conscience may be more sensitive in to give an account of the tea business of which he is still the questionable matters. How can I claim the liberty to indulge head. When he greets me at his door, he will ask me, “Ali, in a personal pleasure that I know will hurt someone else? have those westerners taught you to eat the hog meat yet?” Christian love tempers Christian liberty. “No, Father, I will say, Pork never has passed my lips. Then I I might find a great deal of comfort GRUMBLING LOUDLY will be welcome to go in and preach Christ to him and his AND PUBLICLY about something I perceive as a grievance house guests.” or a gross miscarriage of justice. Yet it saddened the heart of Jesus when HIS disciples began to GRUMBLE. (JOHN 6:43 & “WE KNOW THAT WE POSSESS KNOWLEDGE. 61) KNOWLEDGE PUFFS UP – BUT LOVE BUILDS UP.”
And my more fundamentalistic Christian sisters and brothers Looking forward to a fruitful Lent with you, may not only point me to that Gospel incident but also point The Reverend David B. Schaeffer to me and say, “David you are like other MEN…
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Christ’s light shines in our darkness. God’s love conquers hate. Spirit-given faith is stronger than fear. We come seek- ing you, Lord, please guide our paths. “And what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). May it be so. Amen.
Feb. 4 – 5 5th Sunday of Epiphany / Souper Bowl of Caring Weekend / Holy Communion at all services Feb. 11 – 12 6th Sunday of Epiphany / Youth Worship Weekend Feb. 18 – 19 7th Sunday of Epiphany / Holy Communion at all services Feb. 25 – 26 Transfiguration of Our Lord – Farewell to Alleluia /Food Bank Weekend
SOUPER BOWL OF CARING PAJAMA PARTY SUNDAY!!
Feb. 4 & 5, 2017 On Sunday, February 19th, St. John’s Sunday
School is hosting a Pajama Party as part of Bring-a More than 20 years ago, -Friend Sunday. Please bring as many friends to the Souper Bowl of Caring Sunday school (and church) as you would like! began with just a simple prayer at a Youth Group Sunday School is at 9:15 a.m. We will watch a meeting: “Lord, as we enjoy movie in the Fellowship Hall and serve a special the Super Bowl football game, help us to be treat for everyone, while you relax in your favor- mindful of those without even a bowl of soup to ite pajamas. Come and enjoy Sunday School with eat.” your friends in comfort! Share your love for one Since that day, more than $81 million dollars has another and spread friendship in his Holy Name. been raised across the country for local charities. It has become a powerful movement that is transforming the time around the Super Bowl into one of the nation’s largest celebration of giving and sharing. Through this mission, young people learn what it is like to make a difference in their community as they collect money to help others in need.
As in the past, members from our Confirmation FOOD BANK WEEKEND: Classes will be holding soup pots as you leave February 25th & 26th Church on Super Bowl weekend, February 4th & 5th, and you can be a part of this mission that shares God’s love with those of our area in The Nazareth Area Food Bank needs to replenish need by giving generously. Every dollar placed its supply of canned tuna, peanut butter, grape in the Soup Pots will go to the Nazareth Area jelly and soups but we also welcome Food Bank and Safe Harbor in Easton. any other items you would like to donate. We could also use donations of toothbrushes and toothpaste. The Food Bank also uses the large-sized brown paper bags so if Please make sure the you need to make room in your pantry, drop Church Office has your them off as well. THANK current email! The easiest YOU!! The Nazareth Area way is to send us an email Food Bank truly appreciates at [email protected]. the continued generosity and That way we can send you updates and faithful support of the many reminders about church events - no members of St. John’s. spam, we promise! :-)
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PASTORAL ACTS
We extend our heartfelt Christian sympathy to the families and friends of the following members We gladly received the following new members into the and friends of Saint John’s who passed into eter- family and fellowship of St. John’s congregation in the nal life in the month of December 2016 & Janu- month of December 2016: ary 2017.: JOSEPH SCHEPIS GERALDINE V. SNYDER December 18th Sunday, December 18, 2016
BARBARA A. STAPLES Sunday, December 25, 2016
DOLORES GARR Saturday, January 14, 2017
Received in the months of November & December 2016 and January 2017 We celebrate with those listed below who entered into the holy estate of matrimony according to God’s ordinance in January 2017: DOLORES GARR Evelyn Werkheiser; Roy & Gloria Roth; Louise Matyas; SUSAN LEE COGORNO & Class of 1952 NAHS; Glenn & Kathleen Fehr; Ellsworth THOMAS PAUL WIDA Bush; Barry & Lois Morris January 7th
JOAN NAGLE Amy & Randy Stoudt; Cheryl & Richard Katz; Cindy & Gary Olenwine; Keith Koch & Cindy Tsurumaki; Matthew & Kelly Stoudt; Todd Stoudt; Jean Master; Lois Doyle; Harriet Houtz; Kevin & Cindy Schlamp; Adele Roth; Bob & Betty Miller; Dorothy Krebs; Gerald & Louise Weiss; Chris Abel; Doris Hirsch We rejoice that those listed below have been liberat- ed from sin and death by being joined in the death MYRTLE MORRIS and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ through the Janet Wetzel; Eric & Cheryl Wetzel sacrament of Holy Baptism in the month of January 2017: ARBARA STAPLES B ADIAN JON BENDER A&H Sportswear Co., Inc.; Denise Snyder Son of Danny & Beverly (Transue) Gossett Born: June 15, 2009 BETTY STARNER Baptized: January 22, 2017 Beth Knickerbocker
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ASH WEDNESDAY From ancient times, ashes have been February 25th & 26th marks the final weekend be- used as a symbol of mourning, peni- fore the Lenten season begins, when we celebrate tence, grief and humiliation. Chris- Christ’s transfiguration on the mountaintop, and tians have a tradition of using ashes bid farewell to “alleluia” until Resurrection Day. made from the palm branches used Music by the Festival Choir and in- on the previous Palm Sunday to strumentalists will be part of both make the sign of the cross on a be- Sunday services. It is hoped that the liever's forehead as part of the Ash majesty and glory of that day’s wor- Wednesday ceremony. The ashes symbolize the ship will be remembered as a source Christian's intent to repent of sins, to accept puri- of strength and comfort as we em- fication from the Lord, and to make a public wit- bark on the Lenten journey. ness of one's faith in Christ as Lord and Savior. On Ash Wednesday, Join us on Wednesday, March 1st at 7:30 p.m. in the nave for a service of Holy Communion and the imposition of ash- es. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER OF ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH? If you or a friend of yours have PRAYER CHAIN ~ We pray that you will think been worshipping at St. of us when you have need for prayer. This in- John’s and decide to make it cludes you, your family members, or friends. your church home, classes for Please call Betty Laubach at 610-759-0225 New Members are scheduled or the Church Office at 610-759-3090. If you once a month in the Church Parlor. would like to join the Prayer Chain The class is about one hour long and presents an and be a part of this powerful min- overview of the Lutheran faith as well as a brief istry, please let Betty or the history. After deciding to join, a time is Church Office know. scheduled during one of the worship services to welcome the new member. Questions? Please feel free to contact the Church Office at 610-759- Each month in your offering envelopes, 3090. you will find a “Special Projects” enve- lope. These particular gifts are designat- ed each month to benefit those in need or to support a need within our church. HOW DO I SCHEDULE A BAPTISM? Baptism classes are held once a month in the FEBRUARY SPECIAL OFFERING: Church Parlor for those wishing to be baptized HELPING HANDS or for bringing children to the font. During the class, the meaning and importance of Baptism Helping Hands is a group of volunteers from our church are presented and if there are any questions and the community who want to help people whose houses concerning the ceremony or sponsorship, they were severely damaged by hurricanes, floods, tornados, etc. can be addressed at that time. Each year we look into where we will be needed the most. There are places that are far away and other places that You may call the Church Office to make arrange- are in driving distance. At times we also work along ments for the date / time of the baptism, which with Habitat for Humanity in building new homes and can be scheduled either during or after the Saturday or Sunday worship services. rehabilitating those that are damaged. If there are any Questions? Please feel free to needs at the church we help with painting, repairing, contact the Church Office at cleaning, etc. If you are interested in hearing more about 610-759-3090. Helping Hands, you are welcome to come to one of our meetings, or contact Gail Price (610-704-8736) or Keith Shook (610-759-0594) for more information.
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Grace Notes understand a word of their language, but let the mu- ecently I watched a live broadcast of the opera Bel R sic from that country begin, and instantaneously we Canto, shown as part of the Great Performances Se- can pick up the beat and experience the emotion it ries on PBS. Based on a novel by contemporary conveys. writer Ann Patchett, the opera had its world premi- ere last season at the Lyric Opera Company of Chi- This year’s annual benefit concert for the Nazareth cago. Like the novel, the first act of the opera be- Area Food Bank, called a Banquet of Song, has as its gins at a lavish birthday party attended by many in- theme “Let All the World Sing Praise.” Bringing to- ternational politicians and business people. The fea- gether singers from across denominational lines, tured guest at the party is a highly acclaimed and from young children to senior choristers, the con- world-renowned opera singer who provides the cert connects our Nazareth area churches in one evening’s entertainment. Set in a magnificent man- united voice of song. For this occasion, young sing- sion, the scene creates the atmosphere of a glamor- ers in the combined children’s choir have had fun ous and festive occasion, with dignitaries dressed in learning to sing “Praise the Lord” in six different lan- stunning attire and enjoying the exquisite music. Un- guages—English, Latin, Spanish, Japanese, and the expectedly, a group of terrorists breaks into the African tribal languages of Kim and Swahili. Indeed, room and chaos erupts. The guests are taken hos- the concert will not only be an expression of global tage and the siege continues for several months. song and the universality of music, but it will unite us
in purpose as we reach out to support those neigh- But what begins as a terrifying situation, slowly bors in need who are served by our local food bank. evolves into something quite different. The storyline It all takes place in our nave on Sunday, February 19, becomes a moving exploration of how people com- at 4:00 p.m. Mark your calendars, invite your municate when music is the only common language. friends, and join us for a wonderful afternoon of mu- People from various countries and continents be- sic and song! come compatriots, and even the terrorists and hos- tages eventually create unexpected bonds with one Grace and peace, another. Although the opera is sung in eight differ- ent languages, representing the global diversity of the Janice Butz, Minister of Music characters in the story, the music brings unity to their circumstance. Friendship, compassion, and the chance for great love lead the characters to forget the dangerous conditions that surround them. Meaning “beautiful song,” the opera Bel Canto exam- ines the universal language of music and its power to create rare human connections under the most un- imaginable circumstances.
Yes, music brings us together, connects us with oth- er people, and allows us to communicate in ways that are different from speech and writing. Music touches our brain, heart, and soul; and no matter what our nationality, we are all very much similar when it comes to expressing ourselves in musical terms. We can travel to another country and not
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A Banquet of Song Benefit Concert for the Nazareth Area Food Bank
Sunday, February 19, 2017, 4:00 p.m. Saint John’s Lutheran Church 200 S. Broad Street, Nazareth
“Let All the World Sing Praise” presented by Combined Children’s and Adult Choirs from Nazareth Area Churches
A Banquet of Song, the 18th annual benefit concert that once again supports the Nazareth Area Food Bank, takes place in our nave on Sunday, February 19, at 4:00 p.m. As in years past, talented singers and instrumen- talists from our Nazareth area churches will combine their resources to present an inspiring afternoon of mu- sic. We will be delighted by the uplifting and angelic sound of children’s voices, as well as a combined choir of adult singers. This year’s concert theme is “Let All the World Sing Praise,” featuring songs of praise and jubila- tion.
A freewill offering will be taken and a reception will follow the concert. It’s bound to be a wonderful afternoon of music and fellowship, so bring your neighbors and friends to be inspired by the music and to share in support- ing this very worthwhile cause!
Come and explore God’s Creation this summer at Bear Creek Camp! The theme is: Restored The deadline for early registration is Bulletin Sponsors March 1, 2017 Needed St. John’s prints 450 worship bulle- tins for each weekend (three worship services), plus additional copies for special worship services SAVE THE DATE and events. HELPING HANDS MISSION TRIP Bulletin sponsors are needed to help offset the Sunday, July 23 to Saturday, July 29 cost of printing the bulletins. Please consider sponsoring the weekly bulletins in honor of or We will be going back to New in memory of a loved one. The weekly bulletin Jersey. If you would like to join sponsorship costs $50, but can be split with two us even for a day or two it dedications for $25 each. Please sign up in the would certainly be appreciated. Bulletin notebook at the back of the Nave or Contact Gail Price at 610-704-8736 or Keith call the Church Office at 610-759-3090. Shook at 610-533-6446. More details to follow. 6
A Message from the Director of Youth & Family Ministries
February brings our annual Youth Service LOOKING AHEAD Weekend. From Saturday, February 11th – Sun- day, February 12th, at all three worship ser- Youth Service Rehearsals: Wednesday, vices, the youth in grades 7 – 12 and some re- st cent graduates will be doing their annual February 1 at 5:00 pm and Wednesday, th “take over”! They will be our worship leaders February 8 at 5:00 pm. Please meet in the and assistants, and will be in charge of every- Choir Room. thing from greeting, to being lectors, to writing and performing the sermon in the form of a Youth Service Weekend: Saturday, Febru- th th skit. They work very hard practicing songs, ary 11 – Sunday, February 12 . learning to greet, usher, lector, and coming up with ideas for the Message. They do a Mid-week Lenten Services: Every Wednes- st wonderful job every year, and it is always nice day from Ash Wednesday, March 1 to April th to have so many members of the congrega- 12 at 7:30 pm in the church nave. tion there to support and enjoy their efforts. st nd Confirmation Retreat: March 31 – April 2 at Tuscarora Inn and Conference Center. Also on February 12th, Pete Smith, the Associ- ate Director of Bear Creek Camp, will be coming to St. John’s to give a presentation Palm Cross Making: All generations during the Sunday School hour for all children and ages are encouraged to meet and their parents in grades 1 – 12. Pete gives in the Fellowship Hall at 6:00 pm on th a very fun and out of the ordinary presenta- Friday, April 7 to make Palm Crosses for Palm Sunday. Please bring a pair of scis- tion that we know you will enjoy! sors. Sunday School will be having the annual Bring A Friend Pajama Party on Sunday, February Sunday School Donkey Walk: Meet in the Fellowship Hall by 9:15 am on Sunday, April 19th. So wear your pajamas and feel free to 9th to walk to the Nazareth Circle following bring something to sit or lay on as we will be watching a movie in the Fellowship Hall that the Donkey. morning! Palm Cross Delivery: Luther League and Blessings, families will be delivering palm crosses to th Jaime L. Taylor our shut in parishioners on Sunday, April 9 Director of Youth & Family Ministries immediately following the 10:45 am service. Lunch will be provided.
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2017 Fellowship Social Calendar
February 26 ~ Helping Hands & Love-A-Lot Nursery School (Transfiguration Sunday) March 19 ~ Von Bora (Spring Fellowship Sunday) April 9 ~ Evangelism (Palm Sunday Donkey Walk) April 29/30 ~ Stewardship (Volunteer Recognition Weekend) May 21 ~ Day Care & Property (Music Sunday)
Groups Serving Christ Through St. John’s Church
Fellowship this month will be on Sunday February 26th, following each morning worship service. This month’s hosts are the members of the Helping Hands Committee and St. John’s Love-A-Lot Nursery School.
Love-A-Lot Nursery School Love-A-Lot Nursery School is a pre-school Christian program promoting learning, discovery, and play for 3 and 4 year olds. Using games, activities, and special events, children are introduced to the academic environment in a fun and interactive way. For over 15 years the Nursery School has operated weekly in the morning from September to May. For more information, please contact the school at 484-293-0720 or email at [email protected]
Helping Hands Committee Inspired by the team who journeyed to Biloxi, Mississippi in January of 2006 to aid in the cleanup efforts following the destruction of Hurricane Katrina, the Helping Hands Committee was formed in the spring of 2006. The committee has supported numerous relief efforts every year since. Their latest mission trip was to Asbury Park, New Jersey during the last week in July of 2016. They were there to assist the St Bernard Project in rebuilding following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy which went through in October 2012. Long after the news coverage is gone and the storm has passed, the need is still there. With our help and the help of many others we will get those in need back into their homes. Come along with us as we share the gifts god has blessed us with.
Come join us for Fellowship! Take a few minutes to chat with the representatives of these groups during the Fellowship Hours to find out more about their activities and plans. You may find that you may want to become a part of their efforts.
Dear Golfer, This letter is a save-the-date notice for the St. John’s Golf Outing in 2017. Due to a scheduling conflict, the 2017 Outing will be on Monday, July 24th at Woodstone Country Club instead of Monday, July 31st. Hope to see everyone on the links Monday, July 24th. If you have any questions concerning this change, give me a call at 484-264-3445.
Thank you, Bob Butz - Chairperson
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Let’s Get Those Cards Out and Wish a Blessed and Happy Birthday to Our Shut-In Friends Celebrating This Month!
ROBERT GEHMAN VICTOR MESSINGER February 5th February 13th 889 Bushkill Center Rd 55 W. 4th St. Apt C-3 Nazareth, PA 18064 Nazareth, PA 18064
LINDA FEHNEL February 18th ELLAMAE HESS Gracedale - Tower 4 D2 February 26th 2 Gracedale Ave. MHS Nazareth, PA 18064 175 W. North St. Nazareth, PA 18064
SEXTONS CORNER
HELLO TO ALL! By the time you read this Spring will be around the corner. Hope everyone had a good holiday.
There are still projects to be started this winter and into the spring. Several of these projects will be from the Capital Campaign and others are new for this year.
If you have a skill set or experience with electrical, plastering, painting, plumbing, woodworking, concrete or welding please see Tony. We can use the help to achieve our goals.
We are moving forward on the upgrade of our telephone system (which is part of our capital campaign). At the moment we are waiting on some of the funding from the Finance Committee for this important pro- ject.
We are waiting for information from several people in regards to the upgrade to our sound system for the Fellowship Fall (details will follow).
Two items of repair work on the organ in the nave have been completed. The remainder of repair work is scheduled for this January 2017 and spring 2017.
Upgrading of the stage electrical panel (capital campaign) has been completed. This upgrade will provide additional power when we move forward on the sound system upgrade in the Fellowship Hall.
The weather has not worked in our favor with regards to beginning work on re-pointing the church bricks and chimney. We need a window of 5 days and temperatures around 50 degrees (capital campaign). This will be now scheduled for the spring of 2017.
We will be moving ahead with the restoration of arch type stained glass windows (south wall alley/ shepherd room) for the spring of 2017. A deposit was mailed to put us on their schedule (capital cam- paign).
Our youth are a vital resource within our church, and we would like to see them participate in some in- door and outdoor activities. Your help is needed and as always, is greatly appreciated.
Thank you, the Sextons [email protected]
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NEWS FROM THE DAYCARE FEBRUARY 2017
Last month the classrooms spent time learning about winter activities, snowmen, animals in winter and winter weather. Some of our classes also learned about Martin Luther King, and all of the classrooms have been enjoying some indoor gross motor activities when the weather is too cold. February has lots of fun topics to learn about. With Groundhog Day some of the classes may learn about light and shadow and others may start talking about signs of spring. February is also dental health month so many of the classrooms will be learning about the importance of taking care of their teeth. Some of the classrooms will be learning about George Washington and Abraham Lincoln in honor of their birthdays, and all of the classrooms are looking forward to Valentine celebrations. Please be aware that the main door for the daycare has changed from a motion sensor to a push button exit. If you are exiting downstairs through the door by the choir room, please push the button on the right to unlock the door. Our program provides care for children 6 weeks through school age from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Our preschool program is taught daily within our day. We currently have openings in our preschool, pre-k and school age rooms. If you have any interest in learning more about our center, please call 610-759-4999 or email [email protected].
Love-A-Lot Nursery School
Winter and snowmen and snowflakes, oh, MY! From outside to inside, our stories, songs, and art projects in January focused on all aspects of the chilly season! To take a break from the winter wonderland in the class- room, we celebrated a day at the beach with the 4yo class! We threw on some grass skirts & flip-flops, did the limbo, built sand castles, and danced around palm trees for a day. It was a welcome distraction from that nasty January chill! The following week we had a day of camping, set up with a tent and a “campfire” around which we sang fun songs. Miss Catherine visited both classes with stories of snow adventures which added to the fun of the month.
The 3s learned their shapes by playing games at circle time and creating great art projects that centered on the shape of the day. We held lots of review games to go over numbers 1-5 which we introduced in the fall and kept practicing scissor cutting. Rounding out the curriculum for the month, we talked about two more colors…white and blue.
The 4s are doing great with their letters and we continued our letter days in January with L, M, N, & O! As we get farther into the alphabet, writing their own names is the focus and the prewriting lessons of the previ- ous months have honed their fine motor skills needed to write correctly. Before writing their names, they learned how to spell their names and identify all the letters in a fun “puzzle” that they were able to bring home once they mastered it at school.
February is a fun month to celebrate those we love with “heartfelt” art projects for Valentine’s Day, and learning about the heart as we focus on being heart healthy with the 4yo class.
Classes run Monday/Wednesday/Friday for the 4yo class, and Tuesday/Thursday for the 3yo class; both clas- ses run 9-11:30am with an optional lunch bunch for the 4yo class that runs 11:30-1pm. If you are interested in registering your child in Love-A-Lot Nursery School next September, there are openings in both the 3yo & 4yo classes. Please call (484-293-0720) or email ([email protected]) the school.
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SAINT JOHN’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH CHURCH COUNCIL MINUTES December 14, 2016
PRESENT: Chris Andrews, Stephen Bajan, II, Joe Billy, Dec. 7 – Billy Garrison began his journey in the Navy Alan Butz, Rev. Janice Butz, Craig Dally, Cathie Dara, as we packed 28 boxes for the military. Ralph Deyo, Christine Garrison, Scott Little, Gail Price, Dec. 18 – Sunday School Christmas Program Rev. David Schaeffer, Jocelyn Starner, Pastor Franklin June 27 – July 1, 2018 – Youth Gathering in Houston, Stinner, Jaime Taylor, Wayne Vierzbicki, Sharon Werner, TX Jackie Wolf. COMMITTEE REPORTS ABSENT: Scott Little FINANCE: Stephen Bajan, II reported: No Meeting DEVOTIONS: Jocelyn Starner led with a prayer COLUMBARIUM: Pastor Schaeffer reported: MINUTES: The Minutes of the Oct. 26 and Nov. 30, 2016 No activity – One deed has been returned in the top meeting were reviewed and stand as written. Motion by row. Alan Butz to accept the Minutes. 2nd – Sharon Werner. Motion passed. DAY CARE: Jackie Wolf reported: Dec. 9 – Day Care Christmas Program was held. COMMUNICATIONS: Thank you from Gettysburg Dec. 14 – Day Care Staff Christmas luncheon was Seminary in support of Chad Butz. held.
PASTOR SCHAEFFER’S REPORT: Complete as written, ENDOWMENT: Stephen Bajan, II reported: No Meeting. including: Nazareth Chamber of Commerce Tree Lighting EVANGELISM: Sharon Werner reported: No Meeting. Ceremony – Had the honor of saying the prayer. Charles & Elizabeth Wagner Foundation – St. John’s HELPING HANDS: Jackie Wolf reported: No Meeting received $2,000 Wagner Scholarship – Recipient was Mikaela LOVE-A-LOT: Wayne V. reported: Complete as written Esposito. including: Dec. 20 – 21 – Christmas parties for children & their PASTOR STINNER REPORT: families are planned. Continue to do day to day visitations to our members. LUTHER LEAGUE: Jaime Taylor reported: Dec. 25 – Will be preaching. Dec. 7 – Billy Garrison began his journey in the Navy. Dec. 31 – Jan. 1 – Will be preaching. Thank you Billy for being our Youth Rep. You will be sorely missed. 28 boxes were packed for the REV. JANICE BUTZ REPORT: Complete as written, military. including: Jan. 13 – 14 – Youth Lock-in Dec. 18 - Continue to rehearse for the Sunday School Program. PERSONNEL: Pastor Schaeffer reported: Dec. 24 – Choirs and special music continue to Pastor Stinner will be evaluated in Jan. 2017. prepare and rehearse for Christmas Eve services. PROPERTY: Joe Billy reported: Complete as written including: DIRECTOR OF YOUTH & FAMILY MINISTRIES Connect Tek – Reviewed recommendations REPORT: Jaime Taylor reported: Complete as written Dean Brodt – Thank you for a very stunning job in including: lighting up the Nativity Window and signage out Dec. 4 – Confirmation students delivered Christmas front. gifts to the shut-ins. (Continued on page 12)
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(Continued from page 11)
SOCIAL MINISTRY: Jackie Wolf reported: No Meeting Building Use Requests: Thank you to Karen Landis & Nancy Little for Jan. 14 - Janice Butz – Festival Choir Retreat coordinating the packing of the Ingathering Boxes. Jan. 28 – Janice Butz – Rehearsal for Banquet of Song Feb. 19 – Janice Butz – Banquet of song STEWARDSHIP: Pastor Schaeffer reported: No Meeting Motion by Craig Dally, 2nd – Chris Andrews. Motion Pledges – Gave report to Richard Johnson passed. Ralph Deyo – Discussion of Candles being used during Christmas Eve services. Council President Jackie Wolf declared the meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. SUNDAY SCHOOL: Jaime Taylor reported: The meeting closed with the Lord’s Prayer. Dec. 18 – Christmas Program Epiphany Event will be with the Kings. Next Meeting = Jan. 25 @ 7:30 p.m. 100 students are now enrolled in Sunday School – Going Well. Next Devotions = Craig Dally
WORSHIP & MUSIC: Jocelyn Starner reported: No Respectfully submitted, Meeting
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Joyce Wallace Capital Campaign – Stephen Bajan, II reported that it is Recording Secretary ongoing. Fellowship Hall Rental – Jackie Wolf discussed about changing form. Motion was made by Chris Andrews to form a sub-committee to discuss Fellowship Hall Rental Fee. 2nd by Alan Butz. Fellowship Hall Sub-Committee will be: Rev. Stinner, Chris Andrews, Stephen Bajan II, Alan Butz, Cathie Dara.
NEW BUSINESS Welcome & Mentoring of Christine Garrison and Gail Price. Dec. 24 – Discussion of Christmas Eve schedule assignments and cleaning after each service. Jan. 8 – Church Council Fellowship Hour – Duties discussed. Jan. 25, 2017 – Committee Council Rep will be reviewed. 2017 Budget – Stephen Bajan II reported. Motion by Stephen Bajan II to present 2017 Budget at Annual Congregational Meeting on Jan. 29, 2017. 2nd – Chris Andrews. Motion passed. Feb. 26, 2017 – Council Luncheon to thank Ralph Deyo and Jocelyn Starner for being on Council. Christine Garrison and Sharon Werner will make arrangements at Miguel’s. Youth Rep – Need someone – Tim Garrison was suggested. Jackie Wolf handed out meeting dates.
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GROUNDHOG DAY ~ On February 2nd, the groundhog Punxsutawney Phil MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2017 comes out of his burrow on Gobbler's Knob, in front of thousands of faithful fol- lowers from all over the world, to predict the weather for the rest of the winter. According to legend, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring. The celebration of Ground- hog Day began with the Germans, Pennsylvania's ear- liest settlers. They brought with them the legend of Candlemas Day, which states “For as the sun shines on Candlemas day, so far will the snow swirl in May.” The settlers found that groundhogs were plentiful and were the most intelligent and sensible animal to carry on the legend of Candlemas Day. So the story Happy Valentine’s Day goes, Punxsutawney Phil was named after King Phil- lip. Prior to being called Phil, he was called Br'er From the Staff at St. John’s: Groundhog. Punxsutawney held its first Groundhog Day in the 1800's. The first official trek to Gobbler's Pastor Schaeffer Knob made on February 2nd, 1887. Pastor Stinner Pastor Butz SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2017 Jaime Patrice Linda Bonnie Gary, Tony, Dean & Ray
The deadline for all National African American History Month in Febru- submissions for the ary celebrates the contributions that African Amer- March 2017 issue of icans have made to American history in their strug- THE MESSENGER is: gles for freedom and equality, and deepens our un- Friday, February 10th. You may leave printed derstanding of our Nation's history. material in the Church Office mailbox or you may email your article or announcement as a Word at- The theme for this year’s celebration is “The Crisis tachment to [email protected]. Thank you in Black Education”. The theme for 2017 focuses in advance for your understanding and cooperation. on the crucial role of education in the history of African Americans.
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USHERS ARE NEEDED! Do you shop at Giant? Do you want to help Ushers welcome and assist wor- out the youth who will be attending the shipers on Sunday mornings, as ELCA Youth Gathering in 2018? Then come well as collect the offering. Ush- to our table in the Shepherd’s Room following ering is a great way for families worship! You can purchase Giant gift cards at to serve Saint John’s together! face value in increments of $25, $50, No experience needed! Four (4) or $100, and 5% will be do- nated by Giant! Thank you ushers are needed each week for each of the Sunday in advance for your sup- services. Please check your schedule and sign up port of our youth! for this important ministry in the Ushers note- book located in the rear of the nave. Questions? Please call Christina Brodt, Usher Coordinator, at REDNER’S TAPES ~ The Social 610-653-0358. Thank you – YOUR HELP is always Ministry Committee is still collect- needed and appreciated!! ing Redner’s receipts for Lutheran Congregational Services. Please remember you need a “Save-a- Hoagie Coupons. Tape” card and your receipts must Coupons for hoagies indicate the “Save-a-Tape” program at the bottom from Ressler’s Market where the total is shown. Receipts may be placed in the basket in the rear of the nave. on Main Street are still being sold for $4.00 each on Sunday morn- ings in the Shepherd’s Room. Proceeds will benefit the Chalice Youth Choir.
Have you moved recently?? Please make sure we have your correct mailing address. It costs the church $0.55 - $1.00 for each INCLEMENT monthly Messenger that is returned due to an WEATHER incorrect address. Thank you!! POLICY During the week, the Church Office will follow the Nazareth Area School District for delays and closings in case of inclement weather. If PLEASE CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE… the NASD closes for the day, the Church Of- When a member of your family is admitted to the fice will be closed and all afternoon/evening ac- hospital, so visits can be made. tivities for children and youth will be cancelled. When you move so we can update your address Evening committee meetings will be at the dis- and/or phone number. cretion of the chairperson. If the NASD has a When a member of your family leaves home for 2-hour delay, the Church Office will open at college, military service, or to establish a new 10:00 a.m. and the afternoon/evening activities residence. will be held as scheduled unless you are other- When either your home or cell phone number or wise notified. In general, weekend worship ser- email is changed. vices will NOT be cancelled due to weather, When a member of your family marries, so their but please use your best judgment when decid- name and/or address can be changed on our rec- ing whether or not to join us; your safety is our ords. utmost concern. When a new baby arrives in your family.
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NAZARETH AREA FOOD BANK BIRTHDAY KITS
Rita Bergstrom, a member of St. John’s, read an article in a magazine about creating “Birthday Kits” for the local food back. Families, who have a child with a birthday during the week or month that the family picks up food, may pick up a Birthday Kit when they re- ceive their food.
Rita would like to collect funds to create Birthday Kits for the children whose families participate in the Nazareth Food Bank. The Nazareth Food Bank said that there are about 200 children who would benefit from this project.
Each kit consists of a cake mix, a disposable 13X9 pan to bake the cake, icing, a package of birthday plates and napkins with matching table cloth, and candles. One Birthday Kit costs about $5.00.
If you would like to contribute to this cause, please put your cash in an envelope, write “Birthday Kit” on the outside and deposit it in the offering plate or drop off your donation at the Church Office. The funds will be given to Rita and she will purchase the items for each kit.
The Youth Group will assemble the kits and they will be delivered to the Nazareth Food Bank.
Thank you, in advance, for your contribution to this effort. The Birthday Kits will help to make a child’s birthday a Special Event.
Please contact Rita with any questions at 610-365-2566 or [email protected].
Contributions will be collected through February 27, 2017.
CAN TABS WANTED ~ St. John’s is collecting WANTED: YOUR USED can tabs for the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald PRINTER INK House – a project of the Nazareth Woman’s Club. CARTRIDGES!! Many families in the Lehigh Valley have found com- St. John’s is collecting used printer fort and support at the PRMH. Please put your can ink cartridges. Staples will give St. tabs in the green buckets found in John’s $2.00 in Staples Rewards for the rear of the nave and outside the each cartridge turned in, for up to 20 per month. Church Office. Thank you for your We can recycle ANY ink cartridge — no matter support of this worthwhile project. which brand. This includes HP, Brother, Epson, Can- on, Dell, Kodak, or Lexmark ink or toner cartridges. There is a collection box outside the Church Office, under the mailboxes. Thank you!! 15
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tin Sponsors,tin andCD MinistrySponsors are foundin rearthe of nave.the Office. Pleasenotethe date haveyou been scheduled to serve. Transfig- uration Wknd. 25 18 11 Youth
Feb. Feb. Feb. 4 Feb. Contact coordinatorthe (in parenthesis) if you are unable findto someone to servein yourplace. Sign - - - - Date & Time
26 19 12 5 of Service
10:45 a.m. 8:00a.m. 5:30p.m. 10:45 a.m. 8:00a.m. 5:30p.m. 10:45 a.m. 8:00a.m. 5:30p.m. 10:45 a.m. 8:00a.m. 5:30p.m.
ChristopherJennings Maryellen Werkheiser KarenMiller KyleSue & Roth WilliamsJennie Steve & DeniseJedrejczyk Rita Hancaviz GregLynnLeh, Fronheiser Bruce &Judy Knecht JoycePayonk Youth Youth Youth Youth Youth EllisFamily Maryellen Werkheiser Maryellen
GREETERS (610 SERVING GOD IN FEBRUARY 2017
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AidenKoch AnthonyAlbanese Madelyn Rex ChiaraDooley Emma Ricci ElenaCalantoni AaronLeopold AshleyBreault Connor Gregus AlexaFegley EhrlichMax GregusMia Office (610 Jaime Taylor/Church Jaime Taylor/Church
ACOLYTES -
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CraigDally Mat Benol CharlesBonisese ChristiannaHunter Edith Brodt Steve Millheim Youth Youth Youth ChristinaBrodt KarenColeman CharlesBonisese Christina Brodt Christina (610 LECTORS
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Suzanne&Gerry Lewis Ann &Craig Dally Annie Bickert,Amie Tracy Jocelyn & TomStartner Youth Youth Youth ElizabethBrodt Christina&Ralph Brodt, III
Nursery Attendants, AltarFlowers, Bulle- Christina Brodt Christina (610 - USHERS Zimmer & ZimmerPeter -
653 - 0358)
17 SAINT JOHN’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, NAZARETH MISSION STATEMENT: Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church is a family of Believers of Christ, who worship together to be nourished by the proclamation of God’s Word and by the gracious gifts of Baptism and Holy Communion. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, through education and fellowship, we respond in obedience to God’s Word, without reserve, in service to the needs of all God’s creation. Saint John’s is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
CONTACT US. . . VOLUNTEER CHURCH STAFF 200 S. Broad Street, Nazareth, PA 18064-2801 Church Office 610-759-3090 Altar Flowers Steven Millheim 610-365-2343 Fax 610-759-3719 E-Mail [email protected] Altar Guild Website www.stjohnsnaz.org Jocelyn Starner 610-759-3205
THE CHURCH STAFF Bulletin Sponsors
Senior Pastor: Rev. David B. Schaeffer Church Office 610-759-3090 [email protected] 610-759-1571 Church Council President Associate Pastor: Rev. Franklin S. Stinner Jackie Wolf 610-759-8609 fstinner @gmail.com 610-746-9695 Greeters Schedule Minister of Music: Rev. Janice I. Butz Maryellen Werkheiser 610-759-5191 [email protected] 610-882-9388 Helping Hands Director of Youth & Family Ministries: Gail Price 610-704-8736 Jaime L. Taylor 610-759-3090 Keith Shook 610-759-0594 [email protected] Katherine Von Bora Society Assist. Organist/Choir Director: Susan Kelly 610-746-2231 Patrice A. Kidd 610-867-1330 Lectors Schedule Parish Administrative Assistant: Christina Brodt 610-653-0358 Linda Kasmakites [email protected] Love-A-Lot Nursery School Parish Financial Secretary: Jolene LaBarre, Director 484-293-0720 Bonnie Mertz [email protected] [email protected] Sextons: Gary Baltz, Tony Petrillo, Dean Brodt, Luther League (Youth Group - grades 7 & up) Ray Wolfe, Jr. [email protected] Jaime Taylor 610-509-8288 COUNCIL COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS Media Ministry Building Trust Fund - Jeff Daniels (Special appt.) Lois Davis 610-504-1635 Day Care - Jackie Wolf [email protected] Evangelism - Sharon Werner Nursery Attendant Kristin Andrews 610-504-6622 Helping Hands - Jackie Wolf, Gail Price Love-A-Lot Nursery School - Wayne Vierzbicki Prayer Chain Betty Laubach 610-759-0225 Personnel - Jackie Wolf, Gail Price Property – Alan Butz, Joe Billy and St. John’s Day Care Lisa Todd, Director 610-759-4999 Wayne Vierzbicki [email protected] Social Ministry - Cathie Dara, Jackie Wolf Sunday School Committee Stewardship - Christine Garrison & Scott Little Lois Davis, Superintendent 610-504-1635 Sunday School - Jaime Taylor [email protected] Worship & Music - Chris Andrews Ushers Schedule Christina Brodt 610-653-0358 YEO Endowment - Donald Himler (Special appt.) Youth Representative - TBA Women of the ELCA (WELCA) Joyce Wallace 610-330-9113
18 The Messenger
Volume CLXIIII “To Know Christ and to Make Christ Known” Issue No. 389
IN THIS ISSUE… A Note from the Pastor ...... 1 Worship with Us! ...... 2 Pastoral Acts ...... 3 Grace Notes ...... 5 Banquet of Song ...... 6 Youth News...... 7 Fellowship Calendar ...... 8 Sexton Corner ...... 9 Daycare News...... 10 Love-A-Lot News ...... 10 NEPA Synod News ...... 16 2017 February Worship Assistants ...... 17 FEBRUARY 2017
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 9:30 AM Ruth Circle 7:00 PM Chancel Choir Souper Bowl of Caring 9:30 AM Media - Blue Chip 10:00 AM Philethia Choir 12:00 PM Bible Study 5:30 PM Worship w/HC 5:00 PM Chalice Choir 6:15 PM Sr. High Youth Grp 6:15 PM Confirmation 1
6:30 PM Bible Study 7:00 PM NA 7:30 PM Naz. Comm. Band Sexton on Duty: Dean 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 5th Sunday of Epiphany 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220 9:00 AM Ladies Aid 12:00 PM Bible Study 6:30 PM Festival Choir MESSENGER Youth Worship Weekend Souper Bowl of Caring 6:30 PM Property 4:00 PM JAM Sessions 5:00 PM Chalice Choir 7:30 PM Chancel Choir DEADLINE 5:30 PM Worship w/HC 8:00 AM Worship w/HC 6:30 PM Stewardship 6:30 PM Sunday School 6:15 PM Sr. High Youth Grp 4:00 PM Girl Scout #81078 9:15 AM Sunday School 7:00 PM Rebekah Circle 6:15 PM Confirmation 1 & 2 10:45 AM Worship w/HC 6:30 PM Bible Study 7:00 PM NA
7:30 PM Naz. Comm. Band Sexton on Duty: Dean Sexton on Duty: Tony
12 13 14 Valentine’s Day 15 16 17 18 6th Sunday of Ephiphany 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220 12:00 PM Bible Study COUNCIL REPORT Youth Worship Weekend 7:00 PM Day Care Bd. 9:00 AM Ladies Aid 5:00 PM Chalice Choir 6:45 PM Chancel Choir DEADLINE 10:00 AM Children’s Rehearsal 8:00 AM Worship 4:00 PM JAM Sessions 6:15 PM Sr. High Youth Grp 7:30 PM Banquet of Song 4:00 PM Girl Scout #81078 for Banquet of Song 9:15 AM NM / BAP Class 6:30 PM Worship & Music 6:15 PM Confirmation 1 & 2 Reh. 5:30 PM Worship w/HC 9:15 AM Sunday School 7:00 PM Naz. Women’s Club 6:30 PM Bible Study Rep from Bear Creek 7:00 PM NA 10:45 AM Worship 7:30 PM Naz. Comm. Band Sexton on Duty: Tony Sexton on Duty: Ray 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 7th Sunday of Epiphany LOVE-A-LOT CLOSED 12:00 PM Bible Study 7:00 PM Chancel Choir Transifiguration of Our Lord 8:00 AM Worship w/HC 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220 9:00 AM Ladies Aid 5:00 PM Chalice Choir Food Bank Weekend 9:15 AM Sunday School PJ Party 7:00 PM Finance 4:00 PM JAM Sessions 6:15 PM Sr. High Youth Grp 10:00 AM Festival Choir 10:45 AM Worship w/HC 8:00 PM Endowment 7:00 PM Helping Hands 6:15 PM Confirmation 1 & 2 1:00 PM Social Min. Knitting 2:00 PM Banquet of Song Reh. 6:30 PM Bible Study Class 7:00 PM NA 4:00 PM Banquet of Song 5:30 PM Worship w/HC 7:30 PM Naz. Comm. Band Followed by Reception in F. H. 7:30 PM Church Council Sexton on Duty: Ray Sexton on Duty: Dean
26 27 28 Transfiguration of Our Lord Food Bank Weekend 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220 9:00 AM Ladies Aid 8:00 AM Worship 4:00 PM JAM Sessions (Fellowship – Helping Hands & Love-A-Lot) 9:15 AM Sunday School 10:45 AM Worship (Fellowship – Helping Hands & Love-A-Lot) Sexton on Duty: Dean