|
|
February 2019 | Vol 12 Issue 2
Articles are due the 15th of the
month preceding publication.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Welcome to Grace Lutheran's eNewsletter!
|
Click on the links at the right to view or print the
calendar
and
volunteer schedule
, plus you can go directly to our website, Facebook and sites in the ELCA family. If you have anything you would like put in the newsletter, send an email to me at dreamstar_00@msn.com.
|
|
|
Keeping a Fire
"Never
let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord.
” -Romans 12:11
The last few days have been colder than any I can remember. Cold weather always makes me appreciate having a warm house to live in. It also makes me appreciate those people who work hard, even in dangerous weather, so we can continue to be safe and comfortable. Throughout human history, because of the lack of modern conveniences, many people wouldn't survive a winter like this. Regardless, if we are talking about building a fire or using a furnace, heat and warmth do not come naturally - they need to be sustained.
The same is true with our spiritual lives. The above verses remind us that we need to keep the spiritual fire in our hearts going as well. The world can be a cold and difficult place. Just as someone needs to tend a fire to keep it going, so we must tend the fire in our hearts. There is no one size fits all way to do this, but it involves feeding ourselves spiritually. Through things like reading, worshiping and praying, we are in a sense putting kindling in our hearts. We are nurturing a part of ourselves that cannot be sustained by the world, but only by the Holy Spirit. God has given each of you gifts that he wants to use to bless you and the world. But that becomes increasingly difficult the colder our hearts become. I want to encourage you to look for ways, big and small, to feed yourself spiritually. Knowing that by doing so, God will give you the Spirit that will sustain you through all that life brings.
In Christ,
Pastor Andy
|
|
Stewardship: Compassionate Seeing
|
|
"Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone."
1 Corinthians 12: 4-6
Across our nation, throughout our world, viewpoint polarization is on the rise. People from different sides of the political aisle look at the same facts and draw radically different conclusions. Opposing camps assemble the same pieces of information into different pictures, then attack each other, shouting, “See? See? Here’s proof that we’re right and you’re wrong!” We are pulling farther and farther apart from one another, and the strained fabric of our democracy is starting to tear.
This dynamic, however, isn’t limited to the realm of politics. It shows up even in our most intimate relationships. In interactions with those closest to us, we often think, “You are so clearly wrong on this—why can’t you see it?” or “I have every right to be angry after what you did,” or “If you would just take my advice on this, you’d be much better off.” This usually happens because we make up stories to support our assumptions, selectively assembling the details into a picture that suits us. And when these stories are challenged, we dig in our heels and argue with people we love.
Compassionate Seeing
enables us to create space for stories that are different from ours, and engage curiosity and wonder toward people who don’t see the world as we do. The first part of Compassionate Seeing is recognizing the difference between ourselves and other people. This means seeing others as truly other—they are distinct individuals with their own unique experiences, preferences, and ambitions. If we don’t recognize and respect the differences between us and others, we will attempt to impose our beliefs, values, and goals on them and get wrapped up in judging them and their choices. We will act as if our story is their story, too.
As we recognize and accept the differences between ourselves and others, this naturally gives rise to curiosity about their experiences. This leads us to the second part of Compassionate Seeing: we make an imaginative leap across the boundary that separates us. This imaginative leap is a daring act of curiosity and creativity. Instead of imposing our values and beliefs on someone else, we begin to wonder about that person’s motivations, desires, and emotions. We put ourselves in the other person’s place, asking the question, “If I were this person in this situation, what would I think, how would I feel, and how would I want to be treated?”
As we make that imaginative leap into someone else’s situation, the tendency to make judgments pauses almost automatically. As soon as we start wondering about someone else’s experience, we stop selectively gathering information to support our preconceived ideas.
The practice of Compassionate Seeing reminds us that our story is not THE story. There is a greater reality, a larger picture of which we see only a very small part. In this way, Compassionate Seeing connects us to God’s Purpose, the experience of belonging to something infinitely greater than ourselves. When we practice Compassionate Seeing, we recognize that our lives are intertwined with a story much bigger than our own. Uncovering this thread of connection between us is like plugging into a powerful current of abundant vitality and joy.
[by C. Paul Schroeder. An adapted chapter excerpt from Practice Makes PURPOSE: Six Spiritual Practices That Will Change Your Life and Transform Your Community, published by Hexad Publishing, September 2017.]
Stewardship: “Everything we do after we say I Believe.”
~ Ray Yoder
|
|
(Right to left – Front Row) – Nancy Porstner, Doug Gartshore, Lee Gartshore, Brian Morris, Steve Salemi, Candy Leonard, Judy Olson, Violet Fulmer, Amy Fulmer, Brooke Fulmer
(Right to left – Top Row) – Anne O'Donnell, Ray Truelsen, Kyle Truelsen, Dana Mueller, Scott Olson, Kathie Behm, TJ Fulmer
|
|
Upcoming Events, How You Can Participate
|
|
Sunday School Service Projects Feb 10th
|
|
The Sunday School will be collecting socks to donate to PADS homeless ministry. If you would like to help, please bring new adult-sized socks to church by Sunday, February 10th.
|
|
The Sunday School will also be making valentines for residents of a local nursing home and Pastor Andy will deliver them on Valentine's Day! Thanks to the kids for sharing God's love.
|
|
Outreach Cafe February 24th
|
|
|
|
Please join us for our next Outreach Café on
Sunday, February 24th
from 8:30-9:30. All funds raised will be donated to PADS, Habitat for Humanity, Richmond Food Pantry and our Haiti Mission. Thanks to Thrivent Financial for their support to purchase food and supplies. To help out or donate food, see Tina Peterson.
We'd like to thank the congregation for your support of the Outreach Cafe.
We raised $4286.75 in 2018
which was disbursed directly to our ministries! Also, a
huge note of thanks to our team
for their dedication and good natured service, and for their donations of food. We also want to acknowledge Thrivent for providing funding to help purchase groceries. Continue to
Live Generously!
|
|
Habitat McHenry - Projects and Progress!
|
|
There are four projects “in the works” at Habitat for Humanity of McHenry County at this time, so lots of opportunities!
The weather has been challenging, for sure! Kevin & I and my friend, Julie (not a Grace member) did help out with some demolition work on Saturday, January 19th at a home in Wonder Lake which was donated to Habitat. If you’ll recall, we did get blasted the night before with snow but luckily it was still a productive day! The interior of the home had some (what I’d call funky) wall finishes and unique configurations! We spent the day tearing down drywall and pulling up flooring. If you had any pent-up frustrations from your day job during the week, this was an awesome way to work it out! It’s also kind of nice to make a mess and not have it be in YOUR house. ;>)
The new Community Outreach Coordinator for Habitat in McHenry, Sara Davis, is conducting a few Volunteer Orientation & Information Sessions in FEB and MAR at the Habitat Restore in McHenry (903 Front St., McHenry, IL 60050). Attendees would learn about Habitat’s history and mission, become familiar with the McHenry affiliate and learn more detail about the different volunteer opportunities. Session options are:
- Wednesday, Feb. 20th @ 10:00 am … 1 hour
- Saturday, Mar. 9th @ 10:00 am … 1 hour
To register for the orientation, please email her at: volunteers@habitatmchenry.org or call the office at 815-759-9002, ext. 106.
Thank you for considering! If you are thinking about volunteering or for any questions or suggestions, please contact Rose McGuire at
springgrove.rose@gmail.com
or 815.245.0566.
|
|
Bits and Pieces from the Church Mouse
|
|
Hello Friends…I hope you are doing well.
Happy Valentine’s Day
to you. Speaking of love.. there are all kinds of love in the world. Did you know that God’s love for us is always there for us no matter where we are and no matter what we are doing. Nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Jesus our Lord. We know how much God loves us because He sent His Son to save us.
|
|
The
Lenten Season begins on Ash Wednesday which is on March 6, 2019.
Yes, it will be here before you know it. I am planning on attending the service and I hope you are as well.
This is the time of reflection and repentance leading up to Easter Sunday. As Pastor Andy imposes the ashes, he reminds us “For you are dust and to dust you shall return.” Genesis 3:19.
|
|
Thought I would share this with you: “
We don’t know what the day holds, but we know who holds the day.”
Brrrr….remember when you are traveling in cold weather, bring items x`such as these: a blanket, a pair of gloves/mittens, boots, and hat to keep you warm. Keep your gas tank filled up, ice scrapers handy, something to eat like an energy bar or my favorite is a peanut butter chocolate candy bar. Speaking of keeping warm, if you know of anyone that is in need of a
place to sleep
and/or in
need of food
during these cold winter days, contact
Curt Bjorklund at 815-675-2765
. He can assist you with information for
PADS
.
|
|
Going to make some hot cocoa and get a blanket to stay warm. See you ‘round!
|
|
Bible Study and Small Group Opportunities
|
|
Women's Friendship & Faith Monthly Bible Study
What:
We will use Max Lucado’s Life Lessons Series to study Romans. We will read about how the earliest Christians were lead by Paul to learn to make better choices. We will be reminded of the importance of a relationship with God to help us make better choices in our own lives.
Who
: Women who want to grow in faith and share fellowship with other amazing women
When:
Second Monday of the month at 7pm at the church
Where
: Grace Lutheran Church Library
Cost:
$7 for the book.
Please contact the church office or Thorey Ellis at (815)276-2456 to sign up so we have enough materials.
“
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who
love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
” Romans 8:28
|
|
DivorceCare
is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.
WHEN:
A new session begins
February 14, 2019
and continues through May 23rd.
Time:
6:30-8:30pm
Contact: Linda Davis 815-347-5982
|
|
Women of the ELCA - WELCA
|
|
Nothing too new since our last meeting in January except for the cold, snowy, freezing weather. We worked to finalize some details regarding our
Craft/Vendor /Bake Sale
which is scheduled for
Saturday, April 6th from 9:am – 3:00pm. There are still some spaces available
. If you wish more details please call Lois Randle @ 1-847-345-7714 or Sandy Messick @ 1-847-354-6521. As in the past, you will be able to purchase a light lunch. Also,
we will be asking our members to donate cookies, pies, cupcakes, brownies, breads or fudge for our bake sale
.
Please keep in mind that WELCA will help any committee if asked.
If any of our members have some suggestions for events in the future, please come to one of our meetings and share your ideas with us. Our next meeting will be held at
1:00pm on Monday, February 11th at Karin Nelson’s home in Twin Lakes. Our hostesses will be Ann Katzenberg and Carol Heuer.
Contact Sandy Messick for more information. 815 354 6521
WELCA would like to thank all those who provided food and helped set up, serve and cleanup for the funerals of Kenny Runyard and Donna Dufur. It is much appreciated.
|
|
Remember –
-1) collecting tabs from cans, 2) Sentry/Richters MarketPlace receipts request sticker on back (Twin Lakes store only, (Ask for the ‘Funds for Friends’ sticker for the back of the receipt and bring to church. Receipts may be put into the marked container located in the hallway on the way to the office.) 3)
Empty pill containers for Haiti. Containers for these items available in hallway to church office, 4) boxes for canned goods, egg cartons, and staples for the Richmond Food Pantry placed in the box by the entrance, 5)
coin jar on Welcome Counter for purchase of canned goods and staples for the food pantry.
- Curt Bjorklund who heads up PADS has requested
only new items
such as gift cards to McDonalds or Burger King, socks, underwear, gloves, scarves, and hats. They can be placed in Luther Hall in bags below the left freezer on the floor. Please
do not donate any other items at this time.
-
once again we have a collection of plates and bowls that have been left at the church after luncheons. They are on the counter in the Fellowship Hall. If you left yours or know of a guest or friend who forgot to pick up their dish, please pass this information along. In the future,
please use a permanent marker to identify your dish with your name or a mark. Paper address stickers clog the dishwasher and create problems.
- consider signing up to make coffee and provide treats for coffee hour after both services on a Sunday of your choice. Someone will be there to help you and it is much appreciated by all.
Thanks –
- to all volunteers young and older who give of their time, expertise, equipment and contributions to keep our home away from home (church) in such good repair.
- for our warmth and friendliness making our members, visitors and guests feel so welcome
- to our Pastor Andy for his inspiring sermons, and his leadership
- to our armed forces men and women who are serving our country – some away from home and families and in distant lands who are serving our country.
- to all our Veterans who have served their country, some with their lives to protect our freedoms that we enjoy to this day. We must and will not forget the sacrifices you have made.
Dates to Remember in February–
Thursday, February 14th – Valentine’s Day
Monday, February 18th -- Presidents’ Day
GOD BLESS AMERICA
|
|
GraceNotes
Quick notes, reminders, who to contact
|
|
Electronic Giving is Easy
Download and print the form here.
Fill it out and return with a voided check to the church office. Forms are also available in the Narthex at church. Please note that if you wish to donate to the building fund or other specific causes you will need to write a check or use cash as before.
|
|
People of Praise Rehearsals Mondays 7:00 - 8:00pm
Director,
Danielle Cairoli
|
|
Sunday School at 9:30 for children age 4 through 5th grade.
The children start in the sanctuary with their families and after the children's sermon, they go to their classes and return in time for communion. Call the church office for more information. 815-678-3082.
|
|
P.A.D.S. Homeless ministry at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. First Thursday of every month from October thru April.
Every week from October through April, St. Joe's hosts from 25-50 homeless individuals with a hot meal, sleeping arrangements, breakfast and a sack lunch. McHenry County PADS provides transportation. Different churches in the area sponsor each week with meals, set up, clean up and laundry services.
Contact Curt Bjorklund at chbjorklund@hotmail.com or call 815-529-7746.
|
|
DivorceCare
is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.
WHEN:
A new session begins
February 14, 2019
and continue through May 23rd.
Time:
6:30-8:30pm
Contact: Linda Davis 815-347-5982
|
|
ALPHA
is our confirmation class open to 6th, 7th and 8th graders and is led by Pastor Andy. We meet Wednesday nights beginning with a meal at 5:30 and then enjoy a time of learning and fellowship. Register your children in the church office or contact Pastor Andy.
|
|
December Giving: $ 20,904; Average Attendance per Sunday: 139
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
