Pastor Connection

April 29, 2021

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples." John 15:1,8

Upcoming Special Offering A special offering will be received on Pentecost Sunday, May 23. This offering unites us in a church-wide effort to support young people. A gift to the Pentecost Offering helps the church encourage, develop, and support its young people, and also address the needs of at-risk children.  Forty percent of the Pentecost offering will be used to make an impact in the lives of young people within Black Hawk County. The remaining 60% is used to support children-at-risk, youth, and young adults through ministries of the Presbyterian Mission Agency.

Piecemaker Quilters to Meet May 15 After more than a year, the Piecemaker Quilters will gather on Saturday, May 15, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. in Fellowship Hall for a time of fellowship, “show and tell” and a discussion of future plans. Masks will be required and we will practice social distancing. We hope to see you there. Newcomers are always welcome.

Helping Hands Fund Our Helping Hands fund is in need of help. The Helping Hands fund is used to assist members of our community to keep their water and other utilities turned on. This has been a difficult year for our community. As of the end of March we distributed $1,530.45 to help keep the lights and water on in many households. Unfortunately, that has left us with a deficit of -$174.21. We are asking you to please remember the Helping Hands account as you give to the church. Just note "helping hand" on the check. You can send in the mail or put it in the offering when you attend services. Thank you for your kindness and generosity to help bless those in need.

Volunteers for Coffee Hour! We are hoping to offer an opportunity for fellowship over coffee after the worship service very soon, but first we need some folks to help make the coffee! Are you willing to help? If so, please sign your name and contact information in the church office. You can call or stop in. Thanks for your help!

Graduation Sunday We will be celebrating our two graduating High School Seniors, Emma Schellhorn and Megan Wheelock, on Sunday, May 16th, during the worship service. We hope to shower them with encouraging cards from our church members on that day. Baskets will be available on that Sunday, but you may also send cards to the church office. Deadline for mailed cards is May 12th. Congratulations Emma and Megan!

Summer Camp at Lake Okoboji We are happy to announce that Lakeshore Center at Okoboji is having summer camp this year! The theme for this summer is "Leap into Adventure". There are camping options for children, youth, and families. The Christian Nurture and Fellowship Team will help defer the costs for those who wish to attend. You can find more information about their different camping programs by visiting the following website: https://www.lakeshorecenteratokoboji.org/summer-camp.html. There is also information in the church office. Please contact the church if you or your family plans to participate.

Church Prayer List New to the Prayer List: Marsha Platt will be having a total knee replacement on April 29. Please pray for healing and recovery. Ongoing/Continuing Prayers: Julie Clarke and family as they continue to grieve Jim's passing; Evelyn and Carl Boise's son who is ill; Sally Davis as she continues to recover from back surgery; Angie (Kim Swallow's friend) who works at the Anamosa State Penitentiary; Karen Hahn recovering from surgery; Dorothy Hummel recovering from surgery; Barbara Benskin recovering from injuries from a fall; Pat Stanhope fell and sprained her arm/shoulder; Florence Ramsell at Northcrest, Steve Miller recovering from surgery at home, prayers of safety for Barbara Benskin's son who is a trucker; Neva Kerr, New Aldaya (Hospice); Paul Holtz, Hospice Care Add to the Prayer List Click HERE to submit a prayer request online. Our pastors will be praying for you and sharing concerns with the congregation as requested.

Church Family Birthdays We celebrate our members with birthdays in April and May. If you get a chance, please join us in wishing them a very happy birthday! April 11 Jo Beaver, Brian Powell 19 Abby McClain 22 Bob Reisinger, Thomas Wiles 24 Karen Dew 25 Tye Schellhorn 27 David Schwab May 4 Deidre Shea 6 Ruth Bowers, Justin Edwards 7 Neva Kerr 8 Randy Lippert, Brody Powell

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First Presbyterian Church | Waterloo, IA | 319-233-6145 | www.1stpresby.org

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