Mission & Ministry Moments
"E-Version Edition"
Weekend of December
9 & 10, 2017
Our mission is to reach up to God; to reach in to each other; and to reach out to others.
FIRST IMMANUEL DAY SCHOOL - A Christ-Centered Education Is An Option For All Families!
·  Current families with re-enrolling children or a new child to enroll, are highly encouraged to complete the process ASAP !
·  Our Early Childhood Classes Are Filling Fast !  Now is the time to learn more about 2K, 3K or 4K. Call and/or come to the Open House on Sunday, January 7th from 10:00 am - Noon.
·  If you have an older child and the school year isn’t going the way you’d hoped it’s time to explore FILS!  Enrolling mid-year could make the difference for your child and family!
·  If tuition is a concern, the Guardian Angel program, and the Wisconsin & Milwaukee Parental Choice Programs are very real blessings . Let us give you more information about these options.
·  For more information, a school tour, assistance with the enrollment process Contact Teresa in the Admissions Office. Phone: (262) 377-6610 ext. 124 ~ Email:  thajdu@fils.org ~ Text/Cell Phone: (262) 627-9737
“Enrolling our children in FILS changed our lives. They love going to school and are growing into confident learners and individuals. I cannot imagine them or our family anywhere else.” - FILS Parent
COFFEE HOUR MINISTRY  This ministry at FIL is held in the Fellowship Hall between the 7:30 am and 9 :00 am worship and before the  10:35 am  contemporary service. It is a time to grab a cup of coffee,/juice, a sweet treat, and mingle with church members and visitors. Our church is more than just a building - we are family. Volunteers are needed to occasionally bring baked goods or juice for it.  Please contact Danielle at  dhalpin@fils.org   or call the office to sign up.
THANK YOU!!!
Thanks to the generous donations received during the fall appeal and a matching $25,000 gift from the Endowment Fund, $53,996 will be added to the Guardian Angel Fund.

First Immanuel’s Guardian Angel Program helps bridge the tuition gap, providing a Christian education to children who may not otherwise be able to attend our school.

What a blessing it is for First Immanuel to exist as a place where children can learn and grow in God’s love and feel his abundant grace. You may continue to give online at http://bit.do/givetofil (select Guardian Angel as the fund) or use the Guardian Angel envelope in the church pew.
REACHING UP TO GOD
GATHERINGS IN GOD’S WORD
Sundays, Weekly 
·  9:30 am Bible Study for adults (River of Life Campus)
Bible Study Topic: 46 Parables of Jesus
·  10:10 am FIL Bible Blast & Sermon Rewind
(Note: these groups will not meet on December 24th and 31st)
Tuesdays, Semi-Monthly - Next Study: December 12th
Bible Study Topic: The Gospel of Luke
·  2nd & 4th Weeks at 9:00 am Cami Juergensen Leads Ladies' Bible Study (River of Life Campus)
Wednesdays, Weekly - Next Study: December 13th
·  9:00 am Pastor Raasch leads a Bible Study for adults
(Note: the 7:00 pm class will not meet in December)
Thursdays, Semi-Monthly - Next Study: December 14th
 Study Topic: Handling Stress
·  2nd & 4th Weeks at 9:00 am Where Moms Connect (An Adult Ministry for Women of all ages)
Fridays, Monthly - Next Study: January 5th
·  1st Friday at 6:00 am Pastor Raasch Leads a “Breakfast Bible Study” for adults
Saturdays, Semi-Monthly - Next Study: December 16th
Study Topic: WHAT ON EARTH AM I HERE FOR ? (Based on Rick Warren's book "The Purpose Driven Life")
·  1st & 3rd Weeks at 7:30 am Men’s Bible Study
PRAYERS FOR MILITARY AND MISSIONARIES OF OUR CONGREGATION AND THEIR FAMILIES  Clay Felmer, Aaron McCatty, Greg Highstrom, Stephen Delcuze, Robert Brooks, Eric Albrecht., Kristin Czisny, Tyler Schleg.

PASTOR’S PRAYER PARTNERS PETITIONS This weekly email communication outlines those for whom we pray (including individuals, families, ministries). A copy of the most recent email is also available at the information desk at FIL.

ROL SUNDAY SCHOOL Class starts after the 8:30 am service in the Fellowship Hall. Students should get a snack and beverage from the refreshments available after the 8:30 am worship and bring to class. Children age 3 - 8th grade are all welcome. (PLEASE NOTE: No Sunday School December 24th and 31st)

BIBLE BLAST  At FIL from 10:10 am - 10:30 am. 3K thru 1st grade: Nursery Classroom (steps from the church narthex on the right) ~ 2nd –12th Grade: School lunchroom. The attendees are placed in grade-level small groups.  (PLEASE NOTE: No Bible Blast December 24th and 31st)

SERMON REWIND  Have you ever wanted to speak up during a sermon and say, “Pastor, can you repeat that last comment, I didn’t quite get that.” How about, “I really don’t understand where you are going with this message, Pastor!” SERMON REWIND can be your opportunity to do just that. SERMON REWIND will take place in the Fellowship Hall at FIL from 10:10 am – 10:30 am each Sunday morning. You can get your questions answered or get a sneak peek at the sermon of that day. It is an informal Q&A-based discussion, so bring your questions and your sermon outline!

ROL BIBLE STUDY  Starting on January 7th for six weeks, this group will be shown the Luther film for 15 minutes per Sunday with discussion and Bible references afterwards. All are invited to join in!

SENIOR CHOIR Thursdays at 7:30 pm. For more information contact Ellen at etolzman@aol.com
REACHING IN TO EACH OTHER
HOSPITAL NOTIFICATION Please call the church office if you wish to have a pastor visit while in the hospital.
ADULT MINISTRIES
STEPHEN MINISTR Y

In Luke, Chapter 10 beginning with verse 30,  we read the parable of the Good Samaritan. As followers of Christ, we pray that we would all live our faith and be a “Good Samaritan” to those in need. In addition, all of us - at one time or another - can identify with the man lying on the side of the road in need of care. God sends Good Samaritans to us to give us care; we should not reject His gift! Be open to receiving care yourself should the need arise. It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help when you encounter a difficult time. God created us not only to give help to others, but also to receive help when we need it. Keep Stephen Ministry open as an option for yourself should you encounter difficulties in the future. To learn if this one-on-one, confidential ministry might be right for you, please call Pastor Reichmann at 377-6610 for more information.
FAMILY VOLLEYBALL Meets this Sunday, December 17th at 6:20 pm. The group will take a break during the Holiday Season and resume actvity on Sunday, January 14th, 2018. All are welcome to participate!
LADIES AID   (Meets Monthly September - May, 1st Tuesday at 11:30 am) N ext Meeting: January 2nd
Christmas Cards
Boxed and individual Christmas Cards are available for sale in the Fellowship Hall.
LWML ( Meets Monthly September - May, 2nd Tuesday at 7:00 pm) N ext Meeting: December 12th
We will enjoy a pizza party and pack the cheer bags! We have a donation of clementine oranges, toothpaste, toothbrushes and ChapSticks so no need to bring those. Please bring items such as lotions, tissues, combs, breads, and cookies (please bring 2). A suggestion was made that Lasata welcomes Andes Candies, and no perishables. Thank you and looking forward to seeing you.
REACH GROUPS   REACH  group is a small gathering of members that meet on a regular basis to help each other build a relationship with God and others. Prayer and Bible study are two objectives as is service to others, whether individually or as a group. Click  here  to learn more about REACH groups
WHERE MOMS CONNECT ( Meets Semi-Monthly September - May, 2nd & 4th Thursday at 9:00 am ) Next Meeting: December 14th
 Please join us for a  Where Moms Connect Christmas Brunch . Our discussion will be focusing on “Handling Stress”. Every mom says life is stressful. There’s just too much going on and too many tasks to complete. When life feels overwhelming we’re not that pleasant to be around. In this session moms learn tips on how to handle stress and how to move things off their plates and on to God’s.  FREE CHILDCARE is provided with a bible story, craft, and snack.  Please join our group at any time. To register online, go to:   TINYURL.COM/FILMOM2017  
Joining a ministry group is a great way to get involved with your Family of Faith! 
Visit our  website  to learn more about our Adult Ministry opportunities. 
  REACHING OUT IN SERVICE
GLORY AND PRAISE Each month there are opportunities to help in area nursing homes by assisting those in wheel chairs to get to a common area for a time of devotion and singing. Contact Betty at (414) 702-7920 for more information. The next opportunities are McKinley Place on December 12th at 6:00 pm and Hamburg Family Tree on December 27th at 6:30 pm.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Help with childcare during Where Moms Connect sessions. If you’d be willing to help either on a regular or  just occasional basis please call Jane at (262) 993-7970.
Get Connected in 2018  - Visit a shut-in from church once a month.  Connect with them and they will feel God’s love through you. The new schedule will begin in January. Call Karen at (262) 692-9227 to be that caring person that will make a difference.
Saukville Food Pantry  Donations can be placed in the designated bins at FIL and ROL. Help is always appreciated!
BOARD REPRESENTATIVE NEEDED   The Food Pantry is in need of representative from FIL/ROL for its board. Please contact the director Christine (262) 284-9348 for more information or express interest in the role.
EXTRA NEWS & OPPORTUNITIES
2018 DIRECTORY  IMPORTANT NOTE - The number listed as your Home Phone should be your primary phone number. This is the ONLY phone number that will be included in the directory. To update your information or to see if your information is current, call the church office at (262) 377-6610 or use this online form:  http://tinyurl.com/ContactInfoFIL
CHORAL SERVICE  The 69th annual Choral Candlelight Service at Trinity Lutheran Church Sheboygan, is Sunday, December 17th at 4:00 p.m . The service features the music of Dr. Kenneth Kosche, who will also be in attendance, guest organist Dr. John Behnke as well as Trinity's Mixed Choir, Singers, Handbell and Joy Choir. A free-will offering will be received. Refreshments follow the service. For more information, contact Trinity’s church office at (920) 458-8246 or visit   www.trinitysheboygan.org.
Volunteers are needed to donate snacks for our Thursday classes beginning January 4th. Ideas of successful treats from the past include: cookies, oranges, apple slices, cheese and crackers, yogurt, veggies & dip, cake or cupcakes. Please contact Margaret at (262) 375-9286 if you are willing to help one Thursday between January 4th & March 28th.

We could also use another adult for our 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm class. Please consider this rewarding opportunity to truly help a child who is trying to handle the changes divorce or separation have brought to his life. Come and play with us! Contact Pastor Reichmann if you are interested in helping.
RIVER OF LIFE CHRISTMAS CHOIR   Rehearsals continue Thursdays 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm at ROL. The group WILL have practice on Thursday, December 21st. Please contact Jennifer at (262) 302-0175 or jenni@ctrpnt.com with questions.
PARENTS NIGHT OUT  Cedarburg’s national Honor Society members will baby sit while your enjoy an evening on Sunday, December 16th from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm.  The event is fee however participates are encouraged to bring a donation for the Hope Network (toiletries and toys for newborns through age 4 will be accepted at the door).
MEN’S RETREAT  The 18th annual Men's Retreat is February 9th -11th  at the Holiday Inn in Manitowoc. The early registration deadline is TODAY December 11th - save on the registration fee! First time attendees are especially encouraged to register early. Come to the retreat and learn what God's grace can do for your life: erase guilt, cover shame, heal relationships, cure bitterness, heal brokenness, deal with disappointments. Any questions call Jim (414) 462-5871 or email:  jnrberg67@gmail.com
SHARE-A-MEAL  Bring a prepared meal to someone in need. The freezer is now conveniently located next to the Christian care center. If you have questions or would like to help cook meals contact Mary at  mary@labudde.com. 
CHORAL SERVICE  The 69th annual Choral Candlelight Service at Trinity Lutheran Church Sheboygan, is Sunday, December 17th at 4:00 p.m . The service features the music of Dr. Kenneth Kosche, who will also be in attendance, guest organist Dr. John Behnke as well as Trinity's Mixed Choir, Singers, Handbell and Joy Choir. A free-will offering will be received. Refreshments follow the service. For more information, contact Trinity’s church office at (920) 458-8246 or visit www.trinitysheboygan.org.
BUILDING PROJECT SURVEY The final component of our building program feasibility study is a survey to gather opinions regarding the vision for the future of First Immanuel Lutheran Ministries. To complete the survey online visit:   https://tinyurl.com/FS2017Survey Paper surveys will also be available in the Narthex next week.

The opinions of our school and member families is valuable. To refresh your memory on the proposed building plans and the impact on our ministry areas, please watch this video presentation at: https://tinyurl.com/FSBPVideo For more information or questions, please contact nirish@fils.org
THANK YOU  We appreciated the participation in the November Bible Talk Series at River of Life! We had a great turnout ranging from 15 -30 attendees per session! It wouldn't have been possible without our crew of talented and knowledgeable speakers: Pastor Raasch, Dr. Maschke, Pastor Smith and Dr. Paavola. Also, thank you so much to the bakers and helpers: Holly Paavola, Karen Peterson, Martha Clapham and Marlene Markworth, and to everyone who helped set up and take down tables, etc.: Karl Roeske and Matt Manzeck, and an extra thank you to Dr. Paavola for organizing the speakers and help in general! We are hoping to do another session in Spring, so be on the lookout for information in the near future!

LIVING WORD LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL
Enroll Now!!!
Register by December 31st,
 receive up to $450
in tuition credits.
Contact Mr. Josh Steffen
Jsteffen@lwlhs.com  ~ ( 262)-677-9353
SAVE THE DATE
First Immanuel Lutheran School
Spring Dinner Auction!

Saturday, March 10th

River Club Of Mequon
  Monday, December 11, 2017

Tuesday, December 12, 2017
6:30 pm FIL Christmas Carol Club , Band &
6th Grade Concert
6:30 pm LWML
7:30 pm Men’s Club
 
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
9:00 am Adult Bible Class
11:00 am & 6:30 pm Traditional Advent Worship
Noon & 5:30 pm Light Meal Served
4:30 pm Contemporary Advent Worship
5:30 pm Faith Education Grades 5-8
6:30 pm Adult Bells
 
Thursday, December 14, 2017
7:30 pm Senior Choir
 
Friday, December 15, 2017
 
Saturday, December 16, 2017
First Immanuel (Cedarburg)
5:00 pm Traditional Worship
 
Sunday, December 17, 2017
First Immanuel (Cedarburg)
7:30 am Traditional Worship (w.comm)
9:00 am Traditional Worship
10:10 am Bible Blast /Sermon re-wind
10:35 am Contemporary Worship (w.comm)
6:20 pm Family Volleyball
 
River of Life (Saukville)
8:30am Traditional Worship (w.comm)
9:30 Adult Bible Class & Sunday School
10:45 am Café Worship (w.comm)
 
DID YOU KNOW...

The Weekly Mission & Ministry Moments is a primary tool to communicate events and other information with the FIL/ROL community of faith. 

Please email communications@fils.org to have information about your ministry, event, etc. distributed and promoted.