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Gathered faithfully to love and serve God and all others. |
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Faith's Friday Update
February 24, 2023
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Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023
First Sunday of Lent
Worship Services at 8:00 & 10:15 a.m.
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Readings and Psalm
Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7
Eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil
Psalm 32
Mercy embraces those who trust in the Lord. (Ps. 32:10)
Romans 5:12-19
Death came through one; life comes through one
Matthew 4:1-11
The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness for forty days
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Congregational Council minutes from the February 16 meeting can be viewed at the link. |
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Ash Wednesday Sermon Reading |
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Attached is the reading Rev. Marianne Powrie used in Ash Wednesday's sermon.
Several people asked for copies so we are sharing it with everyone.
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Year End Giving Statements for 2022 were emailed to those with opted-in valid email addresses on file. Please check your junk or spam if you did not receive it.
Paper copies will be provided on request. Signup for a paper copy in the Narthex or contact Patty McKee at 941-921-3709 or pattymckee15@gmail.com or FinancialSecretary@faithlutheransrq.com.
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Please consider donating altar flowers in honor of a special occasion, in memory of a loved one, or to glorify God.
The cost is $30 for one vase or $60 for two vases. Please note that we have two vases each week. This means that each week we can have either 1 donor for both vases, or 2 donors for 1 vase per donor.
If both vases for the week have already been sponsored, please choose an alternate week for your donation. The altar flowers donation board in the fellowship hall is updated weekly. Please check to see if your desired date is available.
The next available Sundays are April 30; May 14, 21.
Both vases are available for these dates.
When you purchase altar flowers, your name and dedication will be published in the bulletin on your selected Sunday. After the 10:15 a.m. service, the flowers are yours to keep or donate to a person or place of your choice.
To make a dedication:
- At church, complete an Altar Flowers envelope with your payment, and place it in the offering plate. Indicate your wish to keep or donate the flowers on the donation board in the fellowship hall or include a note in the envelope with your donation or call the church office.
- By mail, send payment with a note indicating your desired date and dedication, and if you want to keep the flowers or donate them.
Please make checks payable to Faith Lutheran Church and indicate ‘altar flowers’ in the memo line.
Thank you for adding beauty to Faith Lutheran’s altar!
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Please leave the liner pots at church. The florist picks these up every week to reuse them. If you have any of these, please return them. We greatly appreciate it.
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Tech Savvy? We need your gifts! |
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THE SEASON OF LENT & EASTER
Join us for Midweek & Holy Week services:
LENTEN PRAYER SERVICE WITH COMMUNION
Wednesdays on March 1, March 8, March 15, March 22, and March 29:
12 p.m. Lenten Prayer Service with Communion
LENT SOUP & SANDWICH SUPPERS & SERVICES
Wednesdays on March 1, March 8, March 15, March 22, and March 29:
6 p.m. Soup & Sandwich Supper
7 p.m. Evening Holden Prayer Service
Sign up to bring soup or sandwiches on one or more Wednesdays!
The signup sheet is in the narthex.
HOLY WEEK SERVICES
April 2 – Palm Sunday:
8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Worship Services
April 6 – Maundy Thursday:
7:00 p.m. Eucharist Service
April 7 – Good Friday:
2:00 p.m. Stations of the Cross Service
7:00 p.m. Tenebrae Service
April 8 – Easter Vigil Part One:
7:30 p.m. Meet at the Fire in the Parking Lot
April 9 – Easter:
7 a.m. Easter Vigil Part Two in Memorial Garden
10:15 a.m. Worship Service in the Sanctuary
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Lent Soup & Sandwich Supper |
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Sign up to bring soup or sandwiches on one or more Wednesdays! The signup sheet is on the table is in the narthex.
Lent Soup & Sandwich Supper will be offered at 6 p.m. Wednesdays on March 1, March 8, March 15, March 22, & March 29 followed by Evening Holden Prayer Service at 7 p.m.
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Please join the planning session for our new quilt group on Friday, March10th at 9 am at the church.
We will discuss how often we will meet and what time to begin and end our sessions. This group is
for anyone who would either: (1) like to learn to quilt or (2) use their sewing/quilting skills to make quilts.
We will cut, sew, quilt and bind each quilt.
If you do not know how to quilt, someone will be available to teach the skills you need.
If you have questions, you may contact Jane Sanks (941) 923-4240 or (941) 726-2849.
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Tech Savvy? We need your gifts! |
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We are looking to train several additional operators to join our team to run the live stream for our 10:15 a.m. service.
If you are comfortable with technology, we would welcome you to join us in providing this vital ministry.
Interested? Just curious? Contact Marianne Powrie, or leave a message with Cate in the office.
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Adult Forum - Next Meeting is 3/5 |
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Adult Forum will not meet this Sunday Feb 26th but will begin again on Sunday March 5th starting a new 5 week Volume 5
“The Early Church” of “That the World May Know” video series. We will meet in the conference room between the two morning worship services from 9:10 – 9:50am. Pack your bags!
We’re going on a journey with Ray Vander Laan, a Biblical scholar. A quest to uncover Scripture and its meaning across history. Filmed on location in Israel and throughout the Middle East, the Faith Lessons Digital series is an adventure in biblical learning. You will discover why Jesus turned the world upside down with his compelling call to follow Him. The insights you gain will transform your reading of the Gospels and inspire a deeper faith commitment.
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Many Thanks for the School Supplies |
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It certainly takes everyone at Faith to get the job done. In August we asked you to contribute school supplies for Lutheran World Relief kits. In November Mary Circle ladies put together those kits and last Friday we delivered 126 completed kits to Emmanuel in Venice. They will then travel to Maryland to the LWR headquarters and be shipped out where needed. THANK YOU FAITH from The Ladies of Mary Circle! |
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Donations Needed for the Food Pantry:
· 1 lb. packages of pasta
· 1 lb. packages of rice
Healthier varieties like whole wheat, veggie, and gluten-free are appreciated.
Help us spread the word that our Food Pantry distribution has officially begun! Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Thank you to all generous donors and volunteers who graciously give time, talents, and treasures. We appreciate you so very much!
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Confirmation Class meets 4:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays.
This comprehensive confirmation program is more than just a class. It seeks to provide experiences and opportunities in which the individual can grow in faith as a Christian (i.e., worship, relationships with peers and mentors, small group experiences, and ministry opportunities).
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Men of Faith
Breakfast at Skillets
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Join us for a hearty breakfast, prayer, and fellowship at Skillets, 8635 S. Tamiami Trail on Tuesday, 2/28 at 8:30 a.m.
All are welcome! Please RSVP by emailing Pastor Eric at pastor@faithlutheransrq.com or call the church office!
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G.I.F.T.S.
(Growing In Faith Through Scripture)
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G.I.F.T.S. (Growing In Faith Through Scripture) will continue studying "Be Still and Know" by Deb Burma at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays, in the conference room. We look forward to continuing our exploration of Psalm 46.
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Join Faith’s Bereavement Group at 1 p.m. Wednesdays in the chapel.
If you or a friend can use some help bearing the burden of grief, this group is for you. There is strength in community. Help spread the word of hope.
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Mary Circle - Bold Woman of 2023 |
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The family of Faith is proud and happy to celebrate our Bold Woman of 2023- AMY HUSBSCHMAN.
Amy has worked in the service of the Lord for over 50 years here in Sarasota!
To honor our selection, voted on by the women of the church, Mary Circle sponsored a coffee hour to celebrate Bold Woman Sunday!
Congratulations, Amy!!
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Readers Club meets at 2 p.m. on the last Monday of the month in the church library. Feb. 27, they will discuss "The Other Einstein" by Marie Benedict.
For more information, contact Kathy Schilio, schilmo@yahoo.com. Please join! All are welcome!
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Donations to Pastor's Discretionary Fund Enable Emergency Assistance |
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Pastor Eric often engages in conversation with members of the congregation or community about specific needs and aid they might require. The Pastor's Discretionary Fund provides him the means to help financially, when necessary.
If you are able, please consider a donation so vulnerable members of our community can continue to receive emergency assistance. Following Hurricane Ian, requests for assistance have grown substantially.
Thank you for the strong congregational response thus far!
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Looking for a time to pray with members of our Faith family? Join us at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays in the chapel. We will pray for ourselves, our loved ones, those in need, our church community, the larger community that we serve, our nation and the world. We will conclude with Holy Communion.
Bring your concerns and your desire to connect with our loving heavenly Father! Can’t attend in person? Please join us via Zoom.
Join Zoom Meeting: Meeting ID: 871 4720 3661, Passcode: 041291
NOTE: If you need the sacrament brought to your house, please let us know or take consecrated elements home with you on Sunday if you are in town.
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Joan's Soup Freezer
Consider Sharing Soup,
and Take Soup When Needs Arise
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The soup fridge is filling up! Please consider making a donation or simply taking one of the delicious soups found in the fridge labeled Joan’s Soup in the kitchen. Please help us keep this Ministry, founded by Joan March, going. If making a contribution, please label with the type of soup and when it was made. Thanks so much! |
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Saturday, 2/25 8am-2pm
Rummage Sale!
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Faith Lutheran Church will be holding an indoor rummage sale on February 25. Through the generosity of many people for many years, FLC has abundant items that could be used by others. A rummage sale will help others get things they can use. Payment will be by donation and all proceeds will go to Hurricane Disaster Relief.
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Women's Mini Event
Spring Tea
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All women of Faith are invited to join us in the fellowship hall for a spring tea and Luncheon “What A Friend We Have In Jesus” 10:00-12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 11. We will have uplifting discussions regarding our friendship with Jesus, and friendships with women of Faith. If you desire to meet new friends in a unique way, without a big-time commitment, we would love to have you register for our event. We ask that each participant bring their favorite teacup and saucer or coffee mug. Hopefully there will be a story for you to share about this special cup. We also ask you bring non-perishable food items for our food bank. To register, please contact Gwen Schell, or the church office no later than Sunday, March 5.
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24 Shout praise and thanksgiving for God’s love, forgiveness, patience, creativity and concern for those who suffer poverty, injustice and disregard.
25 Pray for the Deaconess Community of the ELCA, an intentional group of women who respond to Christ’s call through Word and Service and diaconal ministry.
26 Give thanks for the strength and example of Jesus, who prevailed over temptation and demonstrated the power of God over evil, self-interest and greed. Pray that the Spirit will guide and sustain us through the challenges we face each day.
27 Pray that we might understand how we stray from God’s intent, harming or neglecting our neighbor. Ask the Spirit for the humility we need to confess our offenses, receive God’s mercy with gratitude and make amends with neighbors we have hurt.
28 Give thanks for synod bishops who manage their synods’ work, further the church’s mission in diverse contexts, and support and care for leaders and congregations. Pray for them as they gather in mutual support and encouragement for the Conference of Bishops, to advise the presiding bishop of our church and reflect on how we do God’s work in the world.
1 Woman’s History Month Remember, celebrate and give thanks for the contributions, achievements, leadership, wisdom and gifts of women and girls throughout history in the church, our communities and the world.
2 In January there were 52 mass shootings in our nation. Pray that God will hear our yearning for the peace, safety and transformation of our society for the sake of protecting life. Ask the Spirit to awaken us from the fear, numbness and feelings of powerlessness that can discourage us from taking risks and making sacrifices that will lead to consequential change in our nation.
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Please remember in your prayers this week:
Jeff & Nancy Arntsen
Anna Bancroft, 6 years old, friend of Alyene Weave
Chuck Banta
Family & Friends of Kevin Beard
Sean Brett, son of Alyene Weaver
Tommy Bright
Charles Budreau
Dee Burlingame
Michael O. Cannon, father of Kay Cannon
Cheryl Cook
Joan Cotton
Eloise Dettmer
Family & Friends of Megan Fairlie
Family & Friends of Marlene Falconer
Elizabeth Farmer
Family & Friends of Stanforth Forbes
John Gallo, friend of April Shettler
Andrea Gambo
Paula Haas, friend of Eloise Dettmer
Elaine Graham
Alyssa Hansen, cousin of Lisa Olsen
Jeff Hansen, nephew of Joan Searles
Christiana Holmes
Kevin Hooks, son-in-law of Anita and Jon Wooton
Mary Janice Holt
Jesus & Rita Jimenez
Paul & Debby Maresch
Kathryn McLaughlin
Judi Melander
Kristin Mohammed
Jeremy & Yvonne Mullins
Family & Friends of Dennis Pappalardo
Virginia Link-Pease, wife of James Pease
Doris Anne Prieur-Lucia
Fritz Rappold
Family & Friends of Deacon Sue Rice
Gabriel Rockwell
Beverly & Floyd Ryder
Family & Friends of Dick Sanks
Ken Schell, brother of Mike (Gwen) Schell
Rev. John Spittal
Dieter Smirnow
Cathy Stubenvoll
Michelle Terrell, niece of Kay Cannon
Colette Thornbloom
Marlene Wiest
Jon Wooton
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02/13 Sharon & Thomas Soukup
02/14 Liz & Brian Martinson
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02/01 Ruth Ditmars
02/01 Erica Homer
02/03 Karon Ramme
02/05 Gail Brown
02/05 Pierce LaVigne
02/05 Molly Wlodarczyk
02/06 Larry Wright
02/08 Katie Bolon
02/09 Brian Deming
02/10 Sydney Lenz
02/11 Jean Smith
02/12 Kyle Kennedy
02/13 Frederick
Weisgerber
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02/14 Marian Batzer
02/15 Dean Dennis
02/15 Jim Lauritsen
02/17 Cathy Eckhardt
02/19 Sue Marley
02/20 Karen Ballweg
02/20 Jonathan Capilla
02/20 Wayne Deming
02/21 Jayne Clark
02/21 Jerry Cooper
02/22 Kevin Fewell
02/24 Bradley Scully
02/24 Tricia Thomsen
02/27 Barbara Bolon
02/27 Olivia Bright-Cox
02/27 Stan Stelmahsenko
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Pastor: Rev. Eric Olaf Olsen
Assistant Pastor: Rev. Larry Wright
Director of Music/Organist: David V. Patrick
Lead Cantor/Music Librarian: Tom Tryon
Artist in Residence: Dr. Joseph Holt
Church Office Administrator: Cate Teague
Weekly office hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday
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Mission – Gathered faithfully to love and serve God and all others.
Values – Mutual Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Service, Forgiveness, Commitment, Perseverance, Faithfulness, Compassion, Flexibility
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CLICK HERE to view the current Constitution of Faith Lutheran Church.
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