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The Messiah Messenger >
The June Messenger Issue #576
The June Messenger Issue #576
May 31, 2016
The Messiah MESSENGER
FROM THE PASTOR
Dear Messiah family of faith,
The time following Pentecost Sunday in the church year is a time of teaching and growing in the life of the church. Guided by the visual parament color of green representing growth, the summer texts also celebrate God’s ability to give us a new lease on life. Toward that end, we gather each Sunday with the whole people of God to be instructed by the Word and nourished in the sacrament of Holy Communion.
Writing to the Christian community of Galatia, the apostle Paul insists that people are justified by faith in Christ rather than by keeping the requirements of Torah. By faith, they participate in the death and resurrection of Christ and now live as God's children and heirs of God's promises. By the Spirit's leading, this life of faith is no longer marked by sinful works of the flesh but bears fruit in freedom that serves the neighbor through love.
This is a timeless gift for all Christians. As we go through life, we encounter life events that are joyful, sad, humorous, catastrophic and mysterious. The manner in which we face these life events is indicative of the faith, resilience and hope in our souls. Perhaps at such a time in your life you have found your faith unwavering and prayed for the hope of the resurrection. Or maybe, like Martin Luther, you have found a deep sense of doubt about God and the freedom and transformation given through Jesus Christ.
Behold! Those who hear this good news that God has called each one of us by the grace of Christ. All are justified and made right with God by faith in Christ and not by doing the works of the law. That we are children of God according to God's promise in Christ is not just wishful thinking; it is the promise that in the cross of Christ we are really a new creation--freed, transformed, and empowered by the Spirit's leading for loving service of the neighbor.
How will you grow in the freedom and transformative power given through Jesus Christ? In what ways will God work in you that which is good and empower you to lovingly serve your neighbor? How will you face the next life event that arises?
Beloved sisters and brothers in Christ, God has given each of us the promise that through our faith in Christ Jesus, we are free to live as a new creation. Live, learn and grow in your faith!
In Christ’s love, Pastor Lynne
NOTEWORTHY NEWS
CONFIRMATION:
NIKOLAUS RYCZEK
& MICHAEL YAGER
On Sunday, May 15th we welcomed these two young men as full members of Messiah, following three years of study. Pastor Lynne was honored to participate, and shared duties with Pastor Paul Amlin for the service.
EC CORNER
Highlights from the May 16 meeting include:
• Pastoral care needs of the congregation
• Status of the financial audit and insurance coverage needs
• Results of the Park Ridge youth coalition meeting
• Sanctuary lighting and possible purchase of a defibrillator
April Attendance
Wk1(1st Communion)=80, Wk2=48, Wk3=53, Wk4=48
*83 unique individuals attended worship between 1 and 4 times in April.
April Giving (Gen. Fund)
Wk1=$3061, Wk2=$2673, Wk3=$1645, Wk4=$878
BAPTISM:
TESSA GRACE TAYLOR
On Sunday, May 22nd we joyfully celebrated the baptism of Tessa Grace Taylor, daughter of Bart and Kristin (Kopij) Taylor, Sue and Ed Kopij’s granddaughter, and Dorothy Nagel’s GREAT granddaughter!
PROPERTY STEWARDSHIP
“June Bugs!”
June has been designated “Pest Control” month for special collections. To indicate your preference to contribute towards our landscaping bill, please write “bugs” on a pew envelope. Your gift will be applied directly to that particular account.
NOTEWORTHY NEWS
QUILTS ‘N KITS
Welcome Summer!
Fall won't be far behind when
we pack up quilts and kits to send to Lutheran World Relief so we want to keep momentum going over the summer. Quilt assembly will be on Sunday, June 26th after worship service! Snacks will be available along with great fellowship and remember - no sewing experience necessary! Meanwhile we continue to focus on collecting items for the Personal Care Kits that need to include bath towels, bars of soap (full size), sturdy combs, toothbrushes and nail clippers. If you don't feel like shopping donations are appreciated to purchase the items (which we can buy in bulk). Designate donations for Messiah Lutheran Church Women or LWR Quilt & Kit Ministry and place in offering plate or give to the church office. Thanks for your support!!
FLAT JESUS!
Flat Jesus is a paper doll children of all ages can cut out and color. He can accompany you by car, plane, via snail mail or go digitally. When Flat Jesus arrives at his destination, photograph and document his adventures. You can make multiple copies and even send Flat Jesus abroad. If you lose Flat Jesus, don’t worry he (in electronic format) can be found on our website; www.MessiahParkRidge.org OR our Facebook page. In September we’ll host a Welcome Home Party for Flat Jesus and find out where he has been all summer!
WE HAVE A WINNER!
The winner of the raffle for Cub tickets was Nancy Ryczek (Larry’s sister-in-law). She purchased some chances when she and her family were guests of Messiah for the Confirmation service.
Total amount collected for this fundraiser was $710. Thanks to all who participated … better luck next time!
UPCOMING EVENTS
PLEASE check with church office before you schedule an event – there is a room assignment calendar maintained by the Office Administrator
MCS ELCA
SYNOD ASSEMBLY
June 10-11
The 2016 synod assembly will be held at the Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Dr., Tinley Park, IL 60477. This year's theme is Transformed and Transforming from Romans 12:2 “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God …”
Two delegates from Messiah are requested to attend. If you are interested in participating in this annual event this year, please let the office know.
MESSIAH BOOK CLUB
Thursday, July 7 @ 7pm
Friendship Place
We will discuss the book “Decider” by Dick Francis. Book Club is open to anyone who enjoys reading.
REMINDERS FOR JUNE
Brotherhood Breakfast – Saturday, June 11th at 9am. All men at Messiah are invited! We meet at Just Like Home, 8501 W Dempster Street in Niles. Good conversation and food.
Quilts ‘n Kits – Quilt assembly will be on Sunday, June 26th after worship service! Snacks will be available along with great fellowship and remember - no sewing experience necessary!
COMING IN NEXT MONTH
Independence Day Festivities, 7/3
Patriotic Hymn Sing, 7/3
THIS MONTH IN WORSHIP
June 5 3rd Sunday after Pentecost
Psalm: Psalm 30
2nd Lesson: Galatians 1:11-24
Gospel: Luke 7:11-17
June 12 4th Sunday after Pentecost
Psalm: Psalm 32
2nd Lesson: Galatians 2:15-21
Gospel: Luke 7:36--8:3
June 19 5th Sunday after Pentecost
Psalm: Psalm 22:19-28
2nd Lesson: Galatians 3:23-29
Gospel: Luke 8:26-39
June 26 6th Sunday after Pentecost
Psalm: Psalm 16
2nd Lesson: Galatians 5:1, 13-25
Gospel: Luke 9:51-62
TEACHER/GRAD SUNDAY
Sunday, June 5
We will recognize our Christian Learning, Child Care, and other teachers, as well as graduates from Kindergarten, Middle School, High School, and/or college. This is a chance for us to say “well done!” and “thank you!” to the teachers and students in our midst.
If you haven’t already, please let the office know if you have a graduate of any level or teacher you’d like to honor.
THIS MONH IN WORSHIP
WORSHIP ASSISTANTS
June 5 June 12 June 19 June 26
10:15am 10:15am 10:15am 10:15am
Acolytes Ralphie L Caitlin L Michael Y Nikolaus R
Communion Assistants Teresa L Rich L Floyd Y Larry R
Readers Erik G Rhonda C Dottie B Rich L
Worship Assistants Diane B Rhonda C Trygve J Cindy N
Projection Jim H Jim H Jim H Jim H
Ushers * * * *
Altar Guild Cindy N Sue K Marilynn D *
Counter Paul H Paul H Paul H Paul H
USHER COORDINATOR NEEDED
We need someone to take over the duties as the Usher coordinator. Please talk to Steve if you are interested in helping to do this. In the coming months, Steve’s availability will be limited, and this Sunday morning ministry is available.
FLOWERS AND BULLETINS
Sunday Flowers are given … Bulletins are given …
The sign-ups for flowers and bulletins are in the narthex by the hall to the Educational Wing. Flowers are $40, and the Bulletins are $10. Envelopes are provided next to the sign-up calendar, or you may simply write “Flowers” or “Bulletin” on your regular envelope in the Other box.
June 5 Available. By John and Sue Fox in honor of Peter’s baptism anniversary.
June 12 By Dan and Kevin Kovach in honor of their mom’s birthday. Available.
June 19 Available. Available.
June 26 By Dan and Kevin Kovach in honor of Grandma Kovach’s birthday. Available.
FLOWER AND BULLETIN CALENDARS ARE IN THE HALLWAY.
CALENDAR: June 2016
http://73983233.view-events.com
MESSAGES
FIREWORKS PARKING PASSES
ONLY 40 PARKING PASSES WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR THE BACK (EAST) LOT FOR JULY 3RD. PROCEEDS FROM THIS FUNDRAISER GO TO MAP (TOWARDS THE LOAN PAYMENT). WE ARE SUGGESTING A DONATION OF $15 (THE SAME AMOUNT MAINE EAST IS CHARGING) FOR EACH PASS, WHICH GUARANTEES A SPOT IN OUR LOT. IF YOU WANT A PASS, CONTACT THE CHURCH OFFICE SOON, THEY ARE LIMITED AND WILL GO QUICKLY. THE MAIN (NORTH) LOT WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ON THE 3RD ON A FIRST-COME FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
It is that time of year again and the Adult Down Syndrome Center
is planning our 4th Annual Fitness, Fun for Everyone 5KRun/3K Walk on Saturday June 4th. Like last year, it will be from about 7am - 11 am and Weeg Way will be closed for those hours.
Mark your calendars
ELCA Day of Service Sunday September 11!
(if you need a tshirt,
let the office know asap!)
Park Ridge Youth Collective
July 7 Summer outing to Chicago Bandit’s Game
(details coming soon)
With heartfelt sadness, we mourn the loss of Kevin Dumerer, son of Jeanne and Larry Dumerer and frequent guest at Messiah. Kevin died Saturday May 14. May God's light eternal shine on him now.
The family appreciates your prayers and will share service information when available.
MESSIAH MINISTRIES
PRMA DAY OF SERVICE
SUMMARY REPORT
Participating Organizations:
First United Methodist Church = 2
Park Ridge Community Church = 4
Mary, Seat of Wisdom = 15
Messiah Lutheran = 4
Our Lady of Ransom = 1
South Park Church = 5
St. Andrews Lutheran = 8
St. Luke’s Lutheran = 10
St. Mary’s Episcopal = 3
St. Paul of the Cross = 9
Other (Maine South baseball teams) = 69
Total Volunteers: 130
Project Locations:
Avenues to Independence, Blanket of Dreams, Center of Concern, Garden Club – Hodges Park, Garden Club – Marbach Garden, Milkweed Seed Pods – Go Green, Park District – Hinkley Park, Park District – Wildwood, Rain Barrel Installation, Roadside litter cleanup, WINGS resale shop
Donated Items
Empty prescription bottles
Food for Maine Township Food Pantry
Diapers, pull-ups, wipes - WINGS
Used athletic equipment and uniforms
Eyeglasses – Lions Club
Shoes for Haiti
Cell phones for Hopeline
Travel size toiletries – The Night Ministry
It was an excellent turnout from the community. People were excited about coming together to serve the community and work together, and many people brought donated items.
MUSIC NOTES
“You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although he was rich, he became poor for our sakes, so that you could become rich through his poverty.”—2 Corinthians 8:9
Henry Smith wanted to serve God, but left seminary because of a degenerative eye condition. In 1978, he heard his minister preach on this Bible verse, and was inspired to write the song, “Give Thanks”, our offering response during summer worship. Regarding “Give Thanks”, Smith said: “God is the ‘all’ of existence, so that I am called to ‘give thanks’ six times in the song’s opening words.”
Smith sang his song in his church; a military couple who happened to be in attendance that Sunday, took the song back to their church in Germany. In Spirit-led circumstances, it spread thru the world and was translated into many languages. Today, it is one of the world’s best loved Christian songs and Smith’s only published song.
YOUTH PAGE
SCOUTING BULLETIN:
CUB SCOUT PACK 105
Blue and Gold Dinner
In March 2016, the Pack held their annual Blue and Gold Ceremony and dinner. The event was highlighted by the graduation and cross-over of the Webelos II into Boy Scouting. We had 100% of the Webelos go on to Boy Scout Troops 1 and 50. Congratulations to those Scouts who have chosen to stay in Scouting and advance through the program.
A Scout is Loyal.
Family Camping Trip
May 13-15, 2016, the pack held their annual family camping trip. There were a variety of outdoor skills and events that took place. One challenge was the cold weather. It was a tough weekend to stay warm, but the Scouts, and Dads pulled together and made it happen. They went fishing too!
A Scout is Cheerful.
Yours in Scouting,
Tim Saul
Charter Organization Rep., Messiah Lutheran Church, C7-751-13
THE NIGHT MINISTRY CHICAGO NIGHT WALK
On Friday, April 29th, seven Messiah members attended a “Night Walk” event in Chicago along with another church group. Michael and Nikolaus, Arden and Ralphie were accompanied by Floyd, Larry, and Debbie as they worked with staff from the Night Ministry Chicago serving those in need in the greater Chicago area.
Floyd said that Michael liked it. He was amazed and shocked to hear that each night there are about 2000 KIDS that are homeless in Chicago – nearly the population of Maine South. It would be like all the students not having a permanent home and sleeping on the street, couch surfing, or something else. The walk around the Lakeview neighborhood was enlightening for all of them, as they thought what they'd do if they were homeless, seeing prices of food, the lack of services, and so on. Finally, there was a comment from a girl from the Downers Grove UCC church in that hit home. She said, "I realize how spoiled I am. I go to our pantry full of food and get angry when we don't have the specific snack I like, however there are all these kids with nowhere to go, little to eat. They would be happy to have any of that food in the pantry and a bed to sleep in."
MILESTONES
BIRTHDAYS
6/1, Matthew Seggeling
6/2, Christine Ruterschmidt
6/3, Vikki Hanson
6/7, Susan Bromstad
6/13, Nancy Boomer
6/13, Susan Kopij
6/14, Pat Kovach
6/17, Natalie Norberg
6/19, David Divita
6/22, Barbara Loverme
6/23, Mary Jane Kovach
6/24, Michael Yager
6/26, Floyd Yager
6/28, Jake Saul
6/29, Jessica Saul
6/29, Christian Travis
ANNIVERSARIES
Neil and Laura Hauser 6/6/1995, 21 years
David and Donna Hanson 6/12/1965, 51 years
Mark and Anne Wiberg 6/18/1960, 56 years
If you do not see your birthday or anniversary here, that means the church office does not have it in the system. Please let us know if we don’t have your “celebration information!”
CHURCH LEADERSHIP
STAFF
Pastor: Rev. Lynne Morrow
Coordinator/Music Ministry: Sue Fox
Child Care Center Director: Karen Black
Office Admin: Jennifer Schneider
Bookkeeper: Daniel Kovach
Property Coordinator: David Hanson
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President: Rich Levy
Vice President: Trygve Jensen
Secretary: Debbie Sasak
Treasurer: Larry Ryczek
Financial Sec.: Paul Holzer
CCC BOARD
Chair: Mark Dupke
Secretary: Cindy Norberg
Treasurer: Erik Grove
Members: Tim Saul, Pat Kovach,
CONGREGATIONAL DEACONS
Floyd Yager and Jennie Read Robles
EXTENDED LEADERSHIP TEAM
Assistance Ministry: Connie Kaufman
Altar Guild: Sue Kopij,
Cindy Norberg
Brotherhood: Rich Seggeling
CHAT Room: David Swanson,
Steve Yager
Cross+Gen: Julie Luck Jensen
Confirmation/Youth: Floyd & Kristin Yager,
Debbie Sasak
Memorials: Carol Hrodey
Women’s Service Group: Trudi Handzel,
Carol Hrodey
Spiritual Gifts Coordinator: Steve Yager
Worship Assistants: David Swanson
Worship Readers: Rich Levy
Ushers: Steve Yager
John 17 Fellowship: Anne & Mark Wiberg
Prayer Cards: Jackie Steigerwald
Sign Ministry: Anne & Mark Wiberg, John Wiberg
MEMORIAL REPORT as of January 28, 2016
All gifts to the Memorial Fund are automatically acknowledged to the giver by a personal note, which includes a confirmation of the amount. Unless otherwise designated, all gifts go into the Messiah Accessibility Project (MAP). Addresses and envelope numbers on memorial cards or checks are much appreciated. The purpose of this report is to confirm that gifts are received and properly allocated. If you don’t see your gift listed here after 2 months, please contact Carol Hrodey at cjhrodey@sbcglobal.net
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MESSIAH MOVIES
HE NAMED ME MALALA (DVD, FOR RENT)
A look at the events leading up to the Taliban's attack on Pakistani schoolgirl, Malala Yousafzai, for speaking out on girls' education followed by the aftermath, including her speech to the United Nations.
It is impossible to be not impressed by this extraordinary young woman. She is a voice crying in the wilderness of ignorance. She has been brutally treated, exiled from her homeland, persecuted and shot in the head. And yet her poise and determination and convictions keep her going, because what she believes in is too important NOT to keep going.
This documentary, created by Davis Guggenheim (An Inconvenient Truth, 2006), is based on the novel I Am Malala. It chronicles the events of her life, and explores her reasons for doing what she is doing. There is gorgeous water-color style animation to serve as flashbacks and exposition, and a wealth of actual footage of Malala speaking to and meeting with people around the world.
Malala in many ways is a typical teen-ager. She likes boys (particularly tennis star Roger Fedderer and cricket player Shahid Afridi), tortures her two brothers, knows card tricks, and struggles with her high school physics test.
In other ways, she is a mega-star of righteous energy, campaigning tirelessly for civil rights in the name of education for girls (and boys too) around the world. I kept being struck by the “old soul” that shines through her eyes when she is talking. Much of her inspiration and support comes from her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai who named his first child after Malalai, a female Afghani Pashtun warrior from the 19th century whose words inspired the Afghan army to a victory against the British during the Second Anglo-Afghani War. Ziauddin, too, was not afraid to speak out against the Taliban for what was happening in their home valley of Swad, and his daughter followed his example.
This is a remarkable story of love and faith. Much mention is made by both Yousafzais about how they don’t believe God is in favor of what the Taliban is doing. I highly, highly recommend this movie. There is no actual violence shown, but a few graphic images depicting the bus in which Malala was shot, so maybe not the best for very young children. But if you want to inspire your young person (or yourself!) look no further than Malala.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Please include the following individuals and families in your prayers this month: JJ, The Hauser Family, Rev. Mark Wiberg, Linda Ostrand, Carol Hrodey, Dana Szul and family, Pastor Lynne and family, Sandy Downie, Nancy Boomer, Duecker Family, Dottie Burger, Lytle Thompson, Jeanne Dumerer, Larry E, Laura Soto, Ruth Perzentka, Tom Jason, Irene Luck, Fred D, Bob and Justine Bisgard, Joe W., Donna Hanson, Lippert Family, Joanne Trestrail, Barb Loverme, Jeane Reeve, Eva Thoren, Roger Jones, Kevin P., Victoria Candiotti, Sarah Fiore, Richard Levy, Mark Higgins, Cindy Norberg, Maria Raica, Arlene Baranowski, George and Audrey Krell, those living with cancer, those living with mental illness.*
JOYFUL THANKSGIVING (APR)
We were thrilled to celebrate The Lord's Supper with the students who have completed the First Communion class, and welcomed to the Lord's table Evelyn Allemeier, Hanna Lippert, and Kaelyn Yager!
Connie Kaufman also said that she’s sufficiently back on her feet (and knees) to be able to be removed from the prayer list. She has appreciated the prayers and good wishes from everyone … it's wonderful how supportive everyone is.
And we joyfully congratulated Quin Santucci for qualifying for the top 6 for NATIONALS for FCCLA Culinary Competition (again)!
* We understand that some prayer requests are short term for specific events, while others find ongoing prayers to be powerful.
We want to remember in our prayers military and first responder personnel (those known to us and those serving who are not known to us): Brandon Ajyek, Tim David, Tyler Daye, Bob Hanson, Bobby Hanson, Tom Hanson, Andreas Johnsen, Jason Koesler, Sam Krawitz, Joey Rosequist, Claudine Ward, Matt McGannon
We also want to remember in prayer our college students: Art DeSchepper, Leah DeSchepper, Andrew Fox, Peter Fox, Jenni Hanson, Tommy Hanson, Tait Jensen, Kevin Kovach, Joe Levy, Joe Song (HKCC), Brynn Wildenauer and Bryce Wildenauer.
ARE ANY OF THESE FOLKS GRADUATING?? PLEASE LET US KNOW!
DIRECTORY CHANGES
Please let the office know if you are moving! Thanks!
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The Messiah MESSENGER
1605 Vernon Avenue
Park Ridge, Illinois 60068
Phone: (847) 823-6984
Fax: (847) 823-6996
E-mail: PastorLynne@messiahparkridge.org
Office@messiahparkridge.org
Homepage: www.messiahparkridge.org
Child Care Center Phone: (847) 825-3767
Child Care Email: MessiahChildCareCenter@gmail.com
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