Great Lakes Restoration Branches Newsletter

The Anchor

The Great Lakes Restoration Branches Magazine/Newsletter Vol. 4 - 24 Issue 89 Fall 2014

News From Around the Region Algonac-Atlanta-Dowagiac-Garden City-Lima-Oakwood-Otter Lake-Port Huron- Sanilac-St. Johns

“By faith all things are fulfilled: Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God which hope cometh of faith maketh an Anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.” Ether 5:3b-4

Editor: Jim Bradley – Algonac Branch – 1-586-752-5965 or email at [email protected]

Algonac Branch By: Val Bradley Starting early on we collected and gather up goods that we no longer need or use. “For we are made partakers of Christ, if It piles up quick we notice. lol. We started we hold the beginning of our confidence set up on Tuesday and finished up by steadfast unto the end; while it is said, Thursday so we would be all set for Fri- today if ye will hear His voice, harden not day morning. Friday Elaine King, Val your hearts …” Hebrews 3:14, 15. May Bradley, myself and my friend Debra we continue to be steadfast in faith, Andriths set up all of our fresh baked study, prayer, testimonies and endure to goods and had customers right off the the end. bat. Our very first customer who came all the way from Lapeer Mi. says she loves to

(Reported by Wendy Holmes) come to Algonac and start there with the We decided to change it up a bit from sales. We had a steady flow and sold a previous years. In the past we have held fair amount of stuff along with quite a bit our annual Rummage Sale on Memorial of baked goods. Weather was extraordi- Weekend, but this year we thought we nary for Michigan, lol, lots of sunshine!! would try having our sale on Algonac’s We were pleasantly surprised to get a vis- "Yard Sale Trail" weekend August 8-9. it from Connie & Dick Burns, they made our day!! Talked with several people from

1 Algonac as well. Some were repeat cus- (Reported by Todd Moses) tomers, some new that didn't realize we th were there. Also met a nice neighbor from Sunday, September 14 was our annual down the street from our church. Her outing to the Sanilac Congregation for a name is Buffy and she is quite involved in shared service, pizza potluck and hayride the local community and we decided that through the country roads. This year was she and I should keep in contact so that no exception to a blessed day. The we can become more involved in our Al- sanctuary was filled with saints for the gonac Community to reach out. She 11am service. The basement barely held stayed about an hour and talked exten- everyone as we enjoyed our variety of sively with us. We had a great first day!! pizzas from Pizza Hut followed by the Arrived early Saturday morning with indulgence of some ice cream and sweet Elaine King, myself and Alexis Parker and toppings. Once everything was finished had more fresh baked goods to put out. at the church, the saints drove out to Homemade brownies are a good seller!! Barb & Barent’s and loaded up on 4 We also had a nice surprise visit from wagons of hayride fun! The weather Hod & Nina Powers along with special cooperated and we stayed dry on our visitor Rita from Germany! Nina brought relaxing and enjoyable ride, pulled by a in her famous Pineapple Upside Down couple of Barent’s tractors. At the end of cakes!! They sold within an hour of her the day, we enjoyed the cider, homemade bringing them in. It was another beautiful cookies/treats and the fellowship of those day in Algonac, lots of sunshine. Alexis we love. Thank you Sanilac for a decided it would be a great day for a wonderful day and for always working at Lemonade stand so we set her up with building those memories & friendships, Lemonade and Kool-Aid and she did quite that stay with us for a life-time. well! We met an awesome little guy about On September 20 several of our saints 2 and he was very talkative and latched were able to attend Book of Mormon Day on to Elaine like they were bffs, lol, he at the Oakwood Restoration Branch. Very walked around the sale hand in hand with interesting and informative classes were Elaine and picked out a favorite toy...a big taught by Elder Tom Essenmacher (“The white Teddy Bear to take home. He also Mosiah Boys”) and Elder Dave Teeple enjoyed some Kool-Aid and then his par- (“Nephi and Lehi’s Missionary Trips”). ents took him over to the park to play af- Elder Barent Eliason gave two power terward and he was one happy little dude! point presentations on various Book of Our baked goods dwindled down to not Mormon evidences. The Algonac ladies much left and we managed to get rid of a were in charge of the luncheon and ap- major amount of clothing by offering a preciated the help of the ladies from bag full for $2 and that went over very Oakwood and Sanilac. As always, the well. Debra Andriths arrived in the after- day ended with a drawing for fantastic noon in time to get us some much needed Book of Mormon-themed gifts. Many lunch. We were famished. We reenergized thanks once again to Barent and Barb and after selling a few more goods, we Eliason for organizing this event and to packed up and took our left over stuff to the Oakwood branch for hosting it! the local Goodwill. What few baked goods we had left we sold on Sunday after ser- (Reported by Todd Moses) vice. We had a wonderful weekend and The Conference of Restoration Elders look forward to our next Holiday Bake held their annual priesthood retreat on Sale and Rummage sale coming up be- September 20-21, 2014 at the historic tween Thanksgiving and Christmas. Will Kirtland Temple. Todd Moses & Eric keep you updated on that!

2 Eliason attended from Algonac, along based on the 15th chapter of John. There with Jay Havener and Shaun Turner from were also classes on Lehi’s vision of the Oakwood. The weekend focused on the rod of iron. As always, they enjoyed shortcomings of Christ’s priesthood as swimming at the YMCA and the traditional leading slothful lives and the need to “Capture the Flag.” Bethany said the focus our time and abilities on the Lord’s weekend would not be complete without work. The conference was well attended that activity! On Sunday the youth had and the Spirit that was present within the their own prayer and testimony service worship services and fellowship times prior to the 11:00 service, which they took was uplifting. part in by singing two songs. Bethany stated that she will really miss Jay and Eight of our Algonac women attended the Kathi, but continues to look forward to Ladies Day Luncheon on October 4. We new experiences at future retreats. A big met at the Pt. Huron/Sarnia branch at thanks to all who assisted with this re- 10:30 a.m. Sherry Purcell brought the de- treat and to Jay and Kathi for their many votions and her theme was steadfast- years of dedication to the youth. ness. She read a number of Scriptures and talked about being steadfast in faith, News and Notes: studies, prayer life and service to others. She also mentioned being steadfast in our friendships. She read the life story of  In August Hod & Nina Powers had Ann Scott Davis from the book, “33 another visit from their German Women of the Restoration.” We then “kids,” Rita and Thilo Bender. The sang the hymn, “With a Steadfast Faith” Sunday they came to our branch and we all formed a circle and joined we celebrated Rita’s birthday at our hands while Sherry offered a closing pot luck luncheon. We gave her a prayer. It was a beautiful worship and the “card shower” and all enjoyed Spirit was felt. From there we headed to some Red Velvet birthday cake that RIX’s on the Rocks … a nearby restaurant Nina brought in. on the water. The tables were set up so we all faced each other (thanks to Wendy and Elaine!) and it was wonderful to see  Jim and Val Bradley would like to each other’s smiling faces! We enjoyed thank the saints for all the cards, delicious food and had a relaxed, fun- calls, and especially the prayers on filled visit with each other. We then Jim’s behalf during (& after!) his headed to “The Atrium Café” for yummy extended hospital stay early in desserts and more laughter and fun. It September. He was greatly blessed was such a blessing to spend time in and is healthier than he’s been in a worship and fellowship with our sisters in long time! Christ. Thanks so much, Sherry, for organizing this wonderful ladies day out!  Dakota’s Got Talent 2014: The performers lined up on Thursday, Hope we can do it again soon! th September 25 at 7:00PM in Algonac’s Bethany Moses and Josh Pirt Dakota’s Auditorium to wow the attended the Older Youth Retreat at the audience and impress the judges. Pt. Huron/Sarnia branch October 17 - 19. There were 18 acts that were The new directors, Shaun and Michelle chosen from earlier auditions to Turner, were assisted by Jay and Kathi perform at this junior class Havener. The theme was “The Joy of the fundraiser to raise money for Prom Lord is my strength,” and classes were 2015. Bethany Moses played the

3 piano and sang the hit song “All of also had the honor of singing the Me” by John Legend and took first opening solo for Amazing Grace. place in the competition. Dakota’s Congratulations to Todd and got talent, and so does Bethany … Bethany Moses for these congratulations to our star outstanding honors and performer! achievements!

 On Thursday, October 2nd, Bethany Moses was inducted into the National Honor Society, along with Prayers would be appreciated for Wendy 138 other new members to make and Tim Holmes and family, Elaine Harm, the Dakota Chapter 241 members Connie Burns (back surgery on Dec. 9), strong. The members commit to Gary and Marge Holmes, Ray Moses, Nina uphold the four pillars of character, Powers, Kelli Williams, Bruce and Barb service, leadership and scholarship Krinkie, Elaine King and Jean John. We throughout the year, completing 40 are keeping you and your congregations hours of school & community in our prayers, as well. service while keeping at least a 3.50 GPA. Bethany also had the distinct honor of being chosen to perform at the induction ceremony, Atlanta Branch By: Mark Ouderkirk and she sang the Broadway-styled song “Don’t Forget Me” from the Hello Saints, first season of Smash. We are so proud of you, Bethany! The beautiful fall colors are about gone, and thoughts of Thanksgiving are here.  Dakota High School’s Mixed Varsity We have so much to be thankful for. Choir was selected to sing at the Indeed The Lord blesses us with fall Michigan conference for the abundance. He is mindful of our every American Choral Director’s need. DC 83:13c. Association. The choir performed at the First Presbyterian Church in We have enjoyed the guest ministry of Flint, Michigan on Saturday, two brothers from Oakwood. In October 25th for a state-wide September Elder Mick Ruch blessed audience of choral directors and us with both music and the preached vocal musicians. The choir was word. In October Elder Graham Fishwild selected based upon the made the long drive, and delivered a consistency of excellence sermon for our hearing. Both messages demonstrated over the past 3 years gave inspiration to our little group. We and is under the direction of Todd thank the Oakwood branch very much for Moses. Their literature took the the sacrifice of sending these fine audience on a journey of joy, priesthood to us. sorrow, fulfillment, faith and satire with Moses Hogan’s spiritual We have experienced both bitter “Music Down in My Soul,” David departure and joyful arrival this fall. von Kampen’s “In a Railroad Tonya Couture died in an automobile Station,” Frank DeWald’s “Sea & crash. She leaves behind two young Shore”, Dr. Stuart Scott’s “Amazing sons. It is a difficult loss for her family, Grace” and Sam Pottle’s and the branch. Emma Grace “Jabberwocky.” Bethany Moses

4 arrived from the courts of glory a couple was presented with their own copy of the weeks back. The proud parents are Heath Church Member’s Manual. A number of and Jessica Slater. Now Connor has a family members were present for this baby sister. Both mom and baby are special occasion. doing well. On Sunday, September 14, Casey Sil- May we pray for our nation as a change of lanpaa was baptized by Elder Rex Mon- the guard takes place. May God bless our arch. Many of Casey’s family members efforts to do HIS will... HE always does. were present to witness this special day. Guest minister, Elder Todd Yaney from HAPPY THANKSGIVING Nov. 27TH 2014 the Algonac Branch brought the message of the hour. Following the service everyone enjoyed fellowshipping during potluck. On Sunday, September 28, Casey was confirmed by Elder Rex Monarch, assisted by Elder Carl McKiddie. After his confirmation, Casey was presented with a Church Member’s Manual by Rex.

Let us remember those less fortunate than us! Kirtland Temple Trip (Submitted by Carl

Theodore Roosevelt McKiddie) Let us remember that, as much has been given After going through the “Kirtland Temple us, much will be expected from us, and that Slides” last year in our Sunday school true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds. class and waiting on the wonderful snowy weather and then torrential rains we had George Washington this year, a small group from The Garden It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the City Restoration Branch were able to providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, travel to Ohio and tour the Kirtland Tem- to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to ple and its surrounding historical sites. implore his protection and favor. We were blessed with beautiful weather, great fellowship, and the Lord’s sweet Garden City By: Kurt & Susan Spirit as we went through the Visitor’s Fishwild Center, Whitney Store, Kirtland Temple,

What a wonderful day it was on Sunday, and beautiful gardens around the temple. August 10, when four young ladies of our There is a peaceful spirit there that congregation were confirmed members of touches the soul. If you have not had the the church. Alyssa Ely and Paige Ely chance to visit Kirtland, Ohio and tour all were confirmed by Elder Rex Monarch, the historic sites you should find the assisted by Elder Jeff Stoker. Jordan time. It is our history, and a testimony of Brooks and Brooklyn Brooks were con- the faith of those who have gone before firmed by Elder Jeff Stoker, assisted by us. Elder Rex Monarch. Each new member

5 Outreach - Karen Rintz, along with sever- Rex Monarch was a guest speaker at al others worked to put together some Oakwood during September. His words of hygiene bags to donate to the “Homeless our Lord touched our congregation. Lis- tening to the words he spoke you can’t Angels in the Motor City”. They were able deny the use of his faith. His words were to put together thirty-one backpack hy- strong! Bringing the Lords words to us giene bags and twenty-eight Ziploc hy- and allowed everyone to take part in the giene bags to pass out to those facing the spiritual blessing that God gave to him to nights in the streets. Karen is also cur- enable him to speak to us. We thank God rently collecting clothing, shoes, hats, for the bountiful blessings we enjoy on a scarves, blankets, and household items daily basis. to donate. The older youth spent their fall retreat at Port Huron this year. Oakwood attendees New address for Ivan Jones: Southwood were Brandon and Chad Embree, Nick Lakes, 1255 N. Talbot Rd., Room 2237, and Joe Brown, Jackson and Reese Nagy, Windsor, Ontario, Canada N9G 3A4 Drew Vandenberg, and Parker Mervyn. (Phone number 519-967-2364) The adults attending were Michelle and Shaun Turner, Kathi and Jay Havener, Many thanks to our guest ministers over Helen Brown, and Tracy Stokes. The the past three months - Elder Fred Brown theme was “The Joy of the Lord is My Sr., Elder Todd Yaney, and Elder Bob Strength” based on John Chapter 15. Ruch. Your ministry is always greatly We will be welcoming a new member to th. appreciated. our branch on November 30 Miss Julia LaRowe will be entering the waters of baptism with Priest Shaun Turner per- forming the ordinance of baptism and El- Oakwood By: Kathleen Modders der Jay Havener and Elder Mick Ruch O Lord, with each new day, help our confirming. branch to be strong and continue to trust The Priesthood went to Kirtland for their you. Bring into our eyes and heart an annual retreat. The theme was “Motivat- honesty that sees our true situation and ing ourselves to do the Lords work.” El- finds support in your goodness and guid- der Todd Moses, Priest Eric Eliason, El- ance. Let us see release from our addic- der Jay Havener and Priest Shaun Turner tion and a renewed joy in living from this attended. It grows each year with more day forward. Amen men, next year try to participate, you will Often, there is no time set aside in a busy be blessed with great fellowship and schedule to enjoy a Wednesday night many lasting memories and new friend- service. In August Oakwood had a camp- ships. fire service in which we invoked the spirit This year’s Men’s retreat was at Oakwood of God and were thankful of his creation, with around 20 in attendance. The theme sitting around a campfire singing hymns was “Where Are You, Men of Zion.” They and listening to a message of God while discussed the spiritual aspects to our under the stars of Heaven, getting warmth families, brothers and the church. from a glowing fire. It was a true blessing The younger youth will be coming to- to all who attended. gether for their fall retreat at Oakwood If you don’t use faith, it will become weak, this year. Betty Lou will be guiding them like a muscle that you have not used be- through a weekend of spiritual lessons fore. It gets stronger as you exercise it. and fellowship throughout the weekend;

6 ending in the blessing to us with the chil- gram on December 21st where they will dren’s ministry of music during the Sun- reenact in their own way, the birth of Je- day Service. sus. With the holiday hustle and bustle in the On New Year’s Eve we will once again midst it can stretch our schedules quite have a Safe Night Party at Oakwood. thin. The one thing we should always Where we eat pizza, take the Christmas make time for is our faith. It's important to decorations down, then play games, put your faith first because without it watch movies and enjoy each other’s we'd be lost. Our Youth will be blessing company for a fun night to bring in the our branch in doing a service project to New Year. give thanks for all the church does for Don't forget to check out our website at them throughout the year. They will be www.oakwoodrestorationbranch.org putting on a Thanksgiving Luncheon the last Sunday of November. They come to- Our upcoming birthdays of the members gether, prepare a feast, and make a beau- of Oakwoods congregations are: 12/02 tiful day for the whole congregation; in- Bob Ruch, 12/04 Ty Millen, 12/06 Drew spiring each one of us to continue in our Vandenberg, 12/08 Parker Mervyn, 12/09 own works for the Lord. Helen Brown, 12/19 Samantha Pollard, 12/25 Laurie MacDonald, 12/26 Mick Ruch, The congregation during the month of 12/26 Jonathon Modders, 12/27 Marissa November collects moneys and non per- Wilson, 01/01 Bev Ruch, 01/06 Virgil ishable food for our food baskets for a Struble, 01/09 Dustin Michael, 01/10 few of our own in need. Priest Chet Brenda Fishwild, 01/12 Glenda Smith, Slagor organizes this each year, for one 01/17 Kim Gilchrist, 01/26 Don Tomanek, of his many works for our Lord. 01/27 Stacy Ruch, 01/28 Ed MacDonald, Julie Fox is the head of our Military dona- 01/28 Reese Nagy, 02/09 Steve Ruch, tions this year. We donated many items 02/14 Fred Brown Sr., 02/19 Deanna to ship to those brave men that fight for Smith, 02/28 Joey Brown, 03/04 Jamie our country. May God bless them with the Moore, 03/06 Brandon Embree , 03/10 courage and strength to continue in their Heather Mervyn, 03/14 Chet Slagor, 03/15 day to day struggles of being in the Unit- Bryan Hardwick, 03/18 Cody Ruch, 03/25 ed States Military. Derrick Embree, 03/28 Beth Everhart, Tis the season to be jolly….The Women’s 03/29 Jamie Modders, 03/29 Cheryl Slagor Christmas Tea Party at Oakwood will be Always remember to make Sunday hosted by Michele Turner this year. We all church services a commitment that can- look forward to a nice time spent with our not be broken. Think of all the things you church friends and family through the are blessed with in life and consider that lord, to honor his birth, during a celebra- as enough reasoning to devote time to tion as we sing songs, eat food, and have your faith of Jesus Christ. Your faith will fun with our annual tradition of a white help keep you grounded during the holi- elephant gift game. Fa la la la la, la la la la. day rush, and remember He is the true Whether it be celebrating the birth of reason for the season. Christ or the joyous occasion of a family coming together, take time to honor your faith. Without Christ there would be no Otter Lake By: Susie Daggett Christmas and without his blessings we would not be able to come together as a Otter Lake Branch family. We will be celebrating the birth of Christ with our annual Children’s pro-

7 We are very proud of John Daniels for graduating last spring. Congratulations Remember the Reason for the Season!!! John! The family recently celebrated Bonnie Sutton’s 85th birthday with a surprise George Matthew Adams: party. It was very well attended and there The Christmas Heart was a lot of yummy food. Bonnie is a treasure to everyone who knows her. Let us remember that the Christmas heart Susie & Doug Daggett are the proud is a giving heart, a wide open heart that grandparents of Natalie Mae Daggett. thinks of others first. The birth of the Brittany & Dan are enjoying her baby Jesus stands as the most immensely. She was born October 5th, 7 significant event in all history, because it lbs., 4ozs. 19.5 “. Her grandparents think has meant the pouring into a sick world she is the most beautiful baby in the the healing medicine of love which has world! transformed all manner of hearts for We recently had a family night with an almost two thousand years... Underneath auction, music, a meal of hot dogs and all the bulging bundles is this beating shish kabobs. The money raised from Christmas heart. our auction went to our general fund. We were very pleased to meet Kevin Powers new bride Analyn. Port Huron By: Sharon Smearer Our Sunday School class is studying “Fit Hello Saints, for the Kingdom” by Kim Augenstein. It is a large book and we’ve recently made it Welcome to God's most Masterful paint- past the part on what not to eat and are ing of the Earth! Fall. thrilled to start the section on things that are healthy. We are learning a lot and In August, Rock Stevens, owner of the trying to implement what we are learning. Atrium Cafe, & Ice Cream Parlor and Joe Thank you to our visiting priesthood, Ann Burgett spoke of the History of the Shaun Turner, Gary Holmes, Dave Teeple, Fenian Raid. Which they told of Civil War Fred Brown Sr., Jay Havener, Tom veterans, many of them Irish, were Essenmacher, Bob Harris, Graham thwarted in a planned invasion of Canada Fishwild, Brian Daggett, Ed Smerer, Kurt in 1870. They also, dressed in costume of Fishwild and Ed MacDonald. Also a the era. special thank you to Doug Daggett and Bill Sutton, our priesthood, who give The Finance committee met to discuss many messages and serve week after the Profit and Losses from January thru week. September.

MERRY CHRISTMAS Dec. 25TH 2014 On September 16, we have been having Nutritional Classes, taught by Donna Hamilton and her daughter, Tracy Hamil- ton, they started every Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. unless vacated. We have been told about certain Vitamins and Minerals and Fragrant oils that we could be taking and using for better Health. How to limit our salt, caffeine, and alcohol and our serving sizes.

8 We also had Sylvia Ludington, from The Lord has been good to all. “Amazing Alkaline Water” from Marysville, Mi. last Tuesday telling us about Alkaline Kangan Water and what The Book of Mormon Day was held at this water has done for people in regards Oakwood's Branch, September 20, 2014. to their health problems. At our last The Theme was, "Miraculous Ammonite class, Mitchell McCleary, Donna and Nephi and Lehi Missionary Conver- Hamilton's grandson, had a prayer over sion". The guest speakers were Elder our evening. Then he read some scrip- Tom Essenmacher: Mosiah Boys, Elder tures about the Demons we have in our David Teeple: The Brother Prophets and lives and our bodies and foods: such as Elder Barent Eliason: Power Points. Evi- gossip, envy, lust, loneliness, smoking, dences of Murals at Bonampak that tell witchcrafts and sorcery and the chemi- the Book of Mormon stories in stone. cals that are in and on our foods and oth- Very interesting! Can hardly wait until er things that keep us from God and his next year to hear what the Archaeologists son, Jesus. The classes were very in- have discovered. A potluck lunch formative and we hope All would take was served and a drawing at the end of heed to what we eat and do to our bodies the day, of Book of Mormon gifts. and polluting of our earth that we are doing and not aware of. It is with sadness that we have to report that on Sept. 20, 2014, Heather Dailey, On September 28, 2014, Arianna Britz and wife of Jason Dailey from Canada has her friend, Sarah Miller gave their Mexicali passed away. She will be deeply missed Mission Presentation of their trip to Mexi- by her husband, Jason and his brothers, co, to our Branch. Very nicely done! Mark and Delphine Dailey and David Dai- ley and his parents, Glen and Mary Dailey Our two candidates, Betty Milett and Ow- also her parents, Ron and Paula Campbell en DeBell, that were baptized by Priest and her brother, Jason and Cheryl Camp- John DeBell (Grandfather) on July 13, bell all of Canada. 2014 were confirmed on October 5, 2014 by Elders David Teeple and Ron Giles. Our congregation welcomes them into Told to me by Sherry Purcell: God's Church. "For though I be absent in the flesh, yet We have had two babies that we have am I with you in spirit, joying and been praying for: Baby Luc who is doing beholding your order, and the steadfast- so much better. We call him our "Miracle ness of your faith in Christ." Baby." Our other baby is Baby Bradley Colossians 2:5 who was waiting for a bone marrow "Steadfast in Christ," was the theme for transplant and stem cell donor for two the thumb area women's get together years. Bradley battles a rare form of leu- held Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10:30 a.m. in Port kemia called juvenile myelomonocytic Huron. Sixteen women from Algonac, leukemia, or JMML On Sept. 19, 2014 ba- Sanilac, Port Huron and Independence, by Bradley and his parents traveled to St. Mo., met to engage in worship, enjoy a Joseph, Mo. and met his donor, luncheon and great fellowship. Braden Srock, his wife Sarah, and their Sherry Purcell, from Port Huron, present- one year daughter, Brooklyn. Bradley ed the theme talk, reminding the women was saved by Braden Srock and his will- to hold fast to our wonderful restored ingness to donate his bone marrow and gospel. Share it with others, testify of stem cells. God's many blessings and endure to the

9 end. Following the worship service, the We had a Halloween Party for young and ladies enjoyed lunch at Rix’s on the old, costumes, different stations that had Rocks, followed by yummy desserts at Bible stories told at and surprises given. the Atrium Cafe and Ice Cream Parlor. It Shelly Miller read a story that kept every- is always a pleasure to share with one one’s attention. The children bobbed for another and be united in our love and apples and also poked a pumpkin. All dedication to our Christ and each other, were given a chance to pick a real pump- your dear sisters in Christ. kin from the pumpkin patch of Joe and Jennifer Milett to take home. Evan Our Congregation hosted a Spaghetti Kercher did a tuba solo. All enjoyed the Dinner - Hootenanny, Saturday, October fun, pizza, pop, cider and doughnuts on 11, from 5-8:30 p.m. Although the group Saturday Oct. 25, at 4 p.m. was small, the food was exceptional, des- sert bar, delicious and the entertainment, Have a wonderful and safe, rest of the foot stompin fun! Our thanks to a great year. kitchen crew, Brian and Cathy Daggett, Roy and Sue McAllister, Connie DeBell, Barbara Teeple, Donna Hamilton and Sanilac By: Kathleen Palmer Sherry Purcell. Beautiful fall decorations graced the dining room made by the crea- “I have showed you all things, how tive hands of Jennifer Milett. Musical ar- that so laboring ye ought to support the rangements were presented by the awe- weak and to remember the words of the some and talented, Bob Harris, Bill Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more Hering, Gary Holmes, Eldon Preston and blessed to give than to receive.” Acts Scott Bolt. A skit by Jack Tynan, Eldon 20:35 Preston and Scott Bolt tickled our funny Summer always goes too fast, bones. A heartfelt thanks to all that at- especially with this summer’s weather. tended. Proceeds were donated to our Crops were planted late with a late Building Fund. harvest also expected. Bill & Kathleen Palmer took a trip to Tennessee with the Thank you to Sherry Purcell for telling me highlight of the trip being the splendor of about the two events. the Smokey Mt. National Park. The Lord’s creation is marvelous. Our Congregation hosted the Junior and Senior Youth Retreat, this Fall, Oct.17-19. September was a busy month for our little A potluck lunch was served and enjoyed branch. On September 14th our church by all. We were very glad to have so was filled with saints from the region. many of the Youth attend. We know that Elder Jim McLeod gave the message & they are the future generations of the the Johnson family provided the ministry Church. of music. After church we enjoyed the annual Pizza Party then off for the hayride Our thanks to Kathi Havener, Shaun and at the Eliason farm. Thank you to Barent Michelle Turner and all the others who Eliason & Lowell Decker for driving the took part in this weekend. We are sure tractors again this year. Thank you also you All will be blessed. Your singing was to the women of the branch for the grand! We hope the youth that attended homemade cookies & cider enjoyed had a spiritual experience. A Big Thanks following the hayride. to everyone!

10 On September 20th the annual Book of Wayne Bartrow with special music by a Mormon Day took place. A very special friend of the family, Ron Bertrel. Many word of appreciation to Bob Harris, Bill friends & family enjoyed a dinner at the Sutton & Kerry Horton for helping set up church following the service. on Friday. Thank you to the Oakwood Branch for hosting the event again this On November 4th we celebrated the year. Priesthood teaching for the day harvest with our annual Harvest Home included Barent Eliason, Tom Dinner after church. Tom & Janine Essenmacher & Dave Teeple. We are Essenmacher were surprised with a grateful to our priesthood who take time beautiful Amish quilt by the members of to teach us the things we need to know. A the branch for their 40th anniversary & in potluck served by the Algona Branch was appreciation for their service to the enjoyed as well as much fellowship. To branch. Our friends Andy & Anna Yoder end the day many Book of Mormon gifts also played a special part in this event. were given away. We may be few in number but we have A very special lady of our branch, Ella great love for one another. Haynes, celebrated her 80th birthday on September 26th. Happy Birthday! For a small branch we have many talented young people who share their Bill & Kathleen Palmer were off again this gifts at church as well as school. Rebecca time to Arizona to visit family. They Bradley with her flute, Gary Desjardins attend football games coached by their with his trumpet & Emma Desjardins with grandson as well as a baby shower then singing. off to Branson Missouri to visit friends there before coming home. Our church continues to be blessed with visiting ministry. Thank you to Bob Our church family has grown over the Harris, Kerry Horton, Hod (Nina) Powers, past few months with the addition of Don Gary (Marge) Holmes, Jim (Jean) Mcleod, & Renae Tomanek & children. Braden Brian (Cathy) Daggett & Wayne (MaryLou) Radaback was also confirmed on October Bartrow. May we all be looking forward to 5th by Hod Powers & Barent Eliason. the seasons ahead as we ponder the courage of the Pilgrims & the gift of our Bev Miller, Barb Eliason, and Mary Lee Savior coming to man. Cove from our branch enjoyed the worship service at the Port Huron Branch. Sherry Purcell is commended for her preparation for the day. A luncheon was also enjoyed. As for the men of our branch, our pastor, Barent Eliason, attended the men’s retreat at Oakwood. Keith & Julia Albriecht had their son Mattias blessed on October 19th. Mattias grandparents are Dora Gutierrez & Lowell Decker. The message was given by Elder Jan1st 2015 Happy New Years

T.S. Eliot

“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.”

Anyone with new Email/phone/other info that you want published please send it to Jim Bradley @ [email protected] !

Regional Activities for the next quarter

SAT. DECEMBER 13, 2014 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM CHRISTMAS BAZAAR @ ALGONAC RESTORATION BRANCH CHRISTMAS ITEMS, CRAFTS, BAKED GOODS

All are invited!

From The Editor’s Desk:

PRIESTHOOD: Any priesthood members that are willing to team up with another p.h. member and travel to the Atlanta MI branch-Dowagiac MI branch or the Lima OH branch for preaching and visitation please contact Jay Havener at 1-248-628-9702. These Branches are in dire need of outside ministry!!!

Reminder:

12 As we enter into this Holiday Season-Thanksgiving thru Christmas-let us remember those less fortunate than ourselves and do our best to help those in need, especially the widows, orphans, single mothers and those unable to care for themselves. God Bless you in your endeavors!!

Anyone having articles or historical facts (that would be of interest to everyone), etc. please send them to me for future use. Please keep them to one page or less, as space is very limited and expensive. Thank you.

Send to:

Jim Bradley 69250 Campground Rd. Romeo, MI 48065 1-586-752-5965 Home 1-586-876-3227 Cell

Email to: [email protected] Email is highly preferred