C h r i s t u s Lu th e r a n C h u rc h

Christus News 2014 June

In This Issue PASTOR’S MESSAGE

2

CALENDAR

3

VOLUNTEER SCHEDULE

4-5

STEWARDSHIP

6-8

CHRISTUS NEWS

8-13

VOLUNTEER/ DONATION OPPORTUNITIES

13

FAITH DEVELOPMENT

14-15

NEWS FROM AROUND THE SYNOD

15-16

CHILDREN & YOUTH

17

STAFF

17

COMMUNITY EVENTS

BACK

Christus “Christus is a growing body of Christians who share the good news of

Love Courage Purpose

God’s grace with all people through courageous love with a purpose.”

Christus Lutheran Church ELCA N1915 Julius Drive Greenville, WI 54942 Phone: 920-757-7775 Email: [email protected] Web: christuschurch.org Facebook: Christus Lutheran ChurchGreenville, WI

CHRISTUS AT THE SUMMER SEND-OFF PARADE

PASTOR’S MESSAGE

Page 2

FROM THE DESK OF PASTOR JEN Confession and Forgiveness Greetings, Sisters and Brothers in Christ! This month continues a several-month series on worship. In this series, we are looking at various parts of the worship service, learning a little about the history of Christian worship, and, hopefully, ending-up with a greater appreciation for all that we do in this sacred time together. This month’s focus is the Confession and Forgiveness. First, though, a story. When I was a pastoral intern at Central Lutheran Church in Everett, WA, I had an interesting experience with the Confession and Forgiveness. It was a Lenten service and we were using a different form of the Confession and Forgiveness. With this particular liturgy the worship leader begins by making the confession, “I confess to God Almighty, before the whole company of heaven, and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have sinned in thought, word, and deed by my fault, by my own fault, by my own most grievous fault…” and it continues on. Then, after this confession, the congregation offers the words of absolution: “The almighty and merciful Lord grant you pardon, forgiveness, and remission of all your sins.” After that, it is the congregation’s turn to confess using the same words, and then the worship leader announces the words of forgiveness. That’s how it was supposed to go. However, this wasn’t a liturgy that my internship congregation used often, and so rather than the absolution coming immediately on the heels of my, the worship leader’s, confession, there was a few-second delay. And for me, it was a very long few seconds. For

I had just confessed that I’m a sinner (by my own most grievous fault, no less) and instead of hearing, “The almighty and merciful Lord grant you pardon…” I heard silence. For an instant, I wondered if those words of absolution would come. Frankly, it was kind of unnerving. Thankfully, after a small chuckle, the pastor who was my internship supervisor got the congregation started, and I heard the sweet words of absolution. I share this story as a way of demonstrating what the most important part of the confession and forgiveness is all about, and that’s hearing that in Christ, our sins are forgiven. Confessing and repenting are important work, don’t get me wrong. But the purpose of the Confession and Forgiveness isn’t to make us all feel really, really bad about ourselves, or wallow in guilt, or worse. The main thing with the Confession and Forgiveness is the forgiveness part. We admit we have messed up, we haven’t lived the love-filled, compassionate, just lives God calls us to live. And then, despite the fact God could choose to respond to this with smiting and destruction, amazingly, God FORGIVES! We are brave enough to confess our sin, our failures, our wrongs, because we trust and we hope God will keep the promise made to us in our baptism to forgive us. That’s why the words of absolution, the words of forgiveness, always come right after the confession. We don’t have to wait until later in the service to hear that God forgives. We get to hear it right away. Our sins don’t get to hang out there like a big matzo ball, mocking us.

Instead, we name the ways we have gone astray, and then God, through the words that the pastor or worship leader pronounces, washes them away, and gives us a new start. That, too, is why the Confession and Forgiveness comes near the beginning of our worship together. We get the elephant out of the room, so to speak, and then we continue hearing God’s word, singing, praying, and joining together at Christ’s table as God’s forgiven children. We have a fresh clean slate and our hearts, washed clean, can then be open to hearing what God in Christ Jesus has to say to us that day in worship. It is also why we do this part of worship each and every week. I can’t speak for the rest of you, but I have yet to have a “perfect week” wherein no sinning on my part happened. We need to acknowledge we have messed up, but even more so, we need to hear once again, God forgives, we are given a new start, that God hasn’t given up on us. So that, dear sisters and brothers in Christ, is what we’re up to with the Confession and Forgiveness. I pray each week when we confess together, that what we all walk away with is that gorgeous promise that in Christ, we are forgiven. Forgiven, indeed! Alleluia! In Christ,

Pastor Jen

Calendar

2014 SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

1

2

3

4

9:30 am Women’s Bible Study

1 pm Christus Sowers

1 pm Becker/Spoor Wedding

5 pm Mutual Ministry Team Meeting 6 pm Confirmation 7:15 pm G2 Youth Group 5

Food Pantry Food Drive

6

8:30 am Traditional Worship Service, with Communion

7

8

9

5 pm God’s Green Acres

9:30 am Women’s Bible Study

6:30 pm Men’s Fellowship

6:30 pm New Member Class

9:30 am Sunday School 9:40 am Adult Education: Table and Font: Who is Welcome?

10

11 1:30 pm Krieglstein/ Mischka Wedding

11:30 am Daytimers’ Pot-Luck Luncheon 6 pm Confirmation

10:35 am Contemporary Worship Service, with Communion

7:15 pm G2 Youth Group 7:30 pm Choir Rehearsal

12

Blood Drive

13

14

15

16

8:30 am Traditional Worship Service, with Communion, and New Member Reception

6 pm Service Team Meeting

9:30 am Minglin’ Moms

9:30 am Women’s Bible Study

1 pm Christus Sowers

9:30 am Sunday School

6:30 pm Pub Theology @ Stoneyard

5 pm God’s Green Acres

6 pm Confirmation

9:40 am Adult Education: Table and Font: Who is Welcome?

20

21

22

23

8:30 am Traditional Worship Service, with Communion

6:30 pm Girls Night Out @ StoneYard

9:30 am Minglin’ Moms

9:30 am Women’s Bible Study

6:30 pm Men’s Fellowship

5 pm God’s Green Acres

6 pm Confirmation

6 pm Business Management Team Meeting

7:15 pm G2 Youth Group

9:30 am Sunday School 9:40 am Adult Education: Table and Font: Who is Welcome? 10:35 am Contemporary Worship Service, with Communion 26

27

28

29

8:30 am Traditional Worship Service, with Communion

6:30 pm Pub Theology @ Stoneyard

9:30 am Minglin’ Moms

9:30 am Women’s Bible Study

5 pm God’s Green Acres

6 pm Confirmation

10:35 am Contemporary Worship Service, with Communion 11:45 am Chili Cook-Off 1 pm Trunk-Or-Treat

24

25

7:30 pm Choir Rehearsal

19

9:40 am NO Adult Education

18

6:30 pm 7:15 pm G2 Youth Council Meeting Group

10:35 am Contemporary Worship Service, with Communion, and New Member Reception

9:30 am Sunday School

17

7:15 pm G2 Youth Group

30

31

VOLUNTEER SCHEDULE

Page 4

October 5

8:30 Service

10:35 Service

Greeters:

Marcks Family

Jackie Mischka, Ashley Beske

Altar Care:

John & Pam Conrad

Gary & Patti Ruhle

Multimedia:

Brad Lotto

Adam Clifford

Ushers:

Krause Family

Todd, Anna & Sarah Shepro

Reader:

Sarah Bultman

Lynn Relien

Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Sarah Bultman, Lexie Wagner Group 2: John & Pam Conrad, Dylan Wagner

Pastor, Jean & Sarah Shepro Gary & Patti Ruhle, Anna Shepro

Hospitality:

Mary Bunnell

TBD

Welcome Desk:

Ron & Karen Toshner

Julie Shattuck

Powerpoint:

Shelley Roeske

Nursery:

Olivia DeSautel (open 8:20-11:45)

October 12

8:30 Service

10:35 Service

Greeters:

Sprehe Family

DeSautel Family

Altar Care:

Rod & Phyllis Paul

Van De Hey Family

Multimedia:

Brian Salm

Todd Van De Hey

Ushers:

Richardson Family

Pete & Lisa Koel

Reader:

Vicky Cichon

Heather Rehorst

Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Ron Toshner, Megan Sprehe Group 2: Kevin, Rachel & Abby Sprehe

Pastor, Julia Martinson, Tyne Michels Lisa Koel, Kathy Forst, Ayla Michels

Hospitality:

Brenda Walby

Wunderlich Family

Welcome Desk:

TBD

TBD

Powerpoint:

Ben Lucia

Nursery:

Laura Burow (Open 8:20-11:45)

October 19

8:30 Service

10:35 Service

Greeters:

Dave & Emilie Scheffler

Relien Family

Altar Care:

Dawn & Jerry O’Dell

Wendy & Gary Bekx

Multimedia:

Dawn O’Dell

Michelle McNichols

Ushers:

Jill & Mark Beyer

Mark Mertz, Ralph Tellock

Reader:

Linda Mix

Archer Lorenz

Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Scott & Ryan Schnabl Group 2: Tina Hanson, Jan & Lanie Mallman

Pastor, Kent Krueger, Holland Lorenz Lisa & Nicole Ahles, Archer Lorenz

Hospitality:

Steve & Shirley Carlson

Kelli Celsor, Joyce Johnson

Welcome Desk:

TBD

TBD

Powerpoint:

Jarrod Osborn

Nursery:

Olivia DeSautel (Open 8:20-11:45)

GOD’S GREEN ACRES Oct. 7:

Can You Help?

Oct. 21:

Can You Help?

Oct. 14:

Can You Help?

Oct. 28:

Can You Help?

SNOW SHOVELING Winter's coming! Please watch the kiosk for a sign up for snow shoveling opportunities.

VOLUNTEER SCHEDULE

Page 5

October 26

8:30 Service

10:35 Service

Greeters:

Peterson Family

Adamovich Family

Altar Care:

Nile & Carol Beck

DeSautel Family

Multimedia:

Bob Hicks

Jason Strange

Ushers:

Borowski Family

Zuleger Family

Reader:

Sandy Bush

Gary Timm

Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Amber & Riley Hicks Group 2: Jim, Laura, Sam Van Buskirk

Pastor, Luke & Amber Zuleger Christine Loppnow, David Zuleger, Emma Loppnow

Hospitality:

Suzanne Nuernberger, Dorothy Ring

McNichols Family

Welcome Desk:

TBD

TBD

Powerpoint:

Brian Falk

Nursery:

Laura Burow (Open 8:20-11:45)

November 2

8:30 Service

10:35 Service

Greeters:

Rae & Paul Tyriver

Osborn Family

Altar Care:

Tony Brunner

Gary & Patti Ruhle

Multimedia:

Brad Lotto

Todd Van De Hey

Ushers:

Dave & Linda Mix

Mark Mertz/Ralph Tellock

Reader:

De Dalum

Chloe Celsor

Comm. Distr: Group 1

Pastor, Barb & Connor Krause

Pastor, Paula & Elle Van De Hey

Ed & Helen Adams, Cole Krause

Kelli, Chloe, & Asher Celsor

Hospitality:

Mark Stutz Family

Mertz Family

Welcome Desk:

TBD

TBD

Powerpoint:

Shelley Roeske

Nursery:

Olivia DeSautel (8:20-11:45)

Group 2

SUNDAY SCHOOL PARENT HELPER SCHEDULE PreK

Kindergarten

1st Grade

2nd Grade

3rd Grade

4th Grade

Oct. 5

Marcus Christenson

Family Sunday School

Matthew Cesar

Karissa Birch

Karlee Fiestedt

Stella Roever

Oct. 12

Sophia Governile

Caleb/Paige Bauer

Paige Christnacht

Seth Clark

Taryn Gervais

Tyne Michels

Oct. 19

Eli Hanson

Jace Frenkel

Family Sunday School

Zach Dahle

Kendra Hicks

Brady Mashlan

Oct. 26

Blake Krueger

Olivia Kernen

Kiley Hanson

Emma Loppnow

Jaocb Klitzke

Preston Mannino

Nov. 2

Rosalie Kulack

Avery Lehmkuhl

Harley Juadis

Family Sunday School

Dominic/Trevor Krueger

Cole Krause

NURSERY HOURS, CHILDREN’S BULLETIN & BLUE BAGS The nursery is available Sunday mornings from 8:20 am until 11:45 am for infants through kindergarten-agedchildren. Or, if you prefer to bring your children to worship with you, they can help themselves to a children’s bulletin (filled with fun activities and artwork relating to worship) and a blue bag located just outside the Sanctuary doors. Blue bags contain paper, crayons, little toys and trinkets to help keep small hands and brains busy during worship services. Please help us conserve offering envelopes and other things in the pew pockets by using the supplies in the blue bags.

STEWARDSHIP

Page 6

S T E W A R D ’ S S P O T L I G H T “Sacrifice” By Arvid Wold One definition of sacrifice is: “Giving up something we love for something we love even more.” In a Knoxville, Tennessee church incident, a gunman entered the sanctuary intending to kill the worshipers. A witness said Mr. McKendry, a longtime church member and usher who was killed, was a hero: "He stood in the front of the gunman and took the shotgun blast to protect the rest of us and the children." … Love for others… SACRIFICE. We can speculate on what we would do if our faith was tested to the point of martyrdom; but I think many of us struggle even with the small stuff of sacrifice. Are we willing to actually give up much of anything, let alone something we love, for God’s vision and mission for our lives, our church and our Lord? Do we separate our real needs from our wants and desires? Do we see our membership at Christus as something serving just our own individual or family’s spiritual needs; are we complacent about it; or do we see it as a prioritized opportunity to love and serve God and support the needs of others?

Some say about setting priorities, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” We don’t need to wait for an ultimate test of our faith when it comes to setting God’s priorities in our lives. By consciously beginning with the small stuff of sacrifice and trusting God more, we can watch how richly we are blessed as God moves to the forefront in our lives. We start to separate our needs from our wants. We become more responsive to the needs of those around us. We begin to see giving of our time and money as a joy-filled act of worship, not as a burden or obligation. I have been amazed by the powerful stories of believers who challenged themselves, and God, by taking deliberate incremental steps toward spiritual growth and greater financial commitments to become better stewards. On their path to or exceeding tithing of their time and money, when that longer-range goal has been reached, what seemed like a difficult sacrifice at first, ceased being seen as a sacrifice at all. These faithful folks, without exception, said they were blessed spiritually and became even more

General Fund Activity 2014 Actual $234,331 $30,480 $5,294 $2,491 $283,794 ($11,198)

2013 Actual $239,487 $34,864 $5,382 $1,992 $288,024 ($6,299)

We are to be bold, not timid, in how we serve “’He stood in the God. We are to front of the gunbe in a spirit of power, love and man and took the shotgun blast to self-discipline, protect the rest of with God at the us and the center of every- children.’ …Love thing we do. We for others… are SACRIFICE.” transformed with a renewed way of life as our lives are drawn into a closer awareness of God’s love, grace and vision for our lives. Let us be bold…be faithful…trust in God and discover the joy of our salvation! “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline”

We have scrip from:

    

DQ Subway Burger King Bulk Food Store Meat Block

Out of gas? Filler’ up by using scrip cards!

Year-to-Date information through August 31, 2014

Income - contribution Income - designated Income - Scrip Income - other Expense Surplus (Shortfall)

generous givers.

2014 Budget $241,530 $37,200 $5,350 $1,700 $286,596 ($816)

     

BP Cenex Express Fleet Farm Woodmans Kwik Trip

SCRIP…it doesn’t cost you a thing!

STEWARDSHIP

Page 7

STEWARDSHIP

Page 8

STEWARDS OF GOD’S LOVE Stewards of God’s Love: Imagine the Possibilities This year’s Stewardship emphasis begins on October 26. Our theme is, “Stewards of God’s Love: Imagine the Possibilities.” During the initial three-week campaign we will hear stories of how members’ lives have been touched and enriched because of the ministries at Christus. We will give thanks for all of the many individuals and families who contribute to the life and ministry of the congregation, and we will respond to God’s gift of love through our own financial commitments to Christus in 2015. During this time we will be encouraged to consider where God is leading Christus and to joyfully imagine the possibilities that are open to us when we allow God’s generous love to guide our actions.

October 26 – “Because of You” – Come hear Christus members share how their faith has been enriched because of their participation in ministry and learning opportunities at Christus…all because of your faithful contributions of time, talent, and treasure.

November 2- “Give Thanks” – On All Saints’ Sunday we will give thanks for the lives of the saints and we will offer up our thanks to the many members of Christus whose giving enables us to share the good news of Jesus Christ with one another and the world around us.

November 9 – “Stewards of God’s Love: Imagine the Possibilities” – On this day we will look forward to the future possibilities at Christus and members will have an opportunity to share how they intend to support these possibilities in 2015 by turning in their completed pledge cards.

And this is only the beginning…watch future newsletters for more details about the 2015 year-round stewardship emphasis…Stewards of God’s Love: Imagine the Possibilities!

CHRISTUS NEWS CHILI COOK-OFF/TRUNK-OR-TREAT Back by popular demand, on October 26th, Christus is bringing back the Chili Cook-Off!!! Right after late service, at approximately 11:45 am, be prepared to serve your famous, home-made chili and compete to be Christus’ Chili Champion! Making Chili not your thing? That’s ok, because we need lots of taste-testers to help us determine who has the best chili recipe. And, right after we are done filling our bellies with yummy chili, head out to our parking lot at 1 pm (or as soon as we can get dressed after the chili) for Trunk-Or-Treat! That’s right, Trunk-Or-Treat. Young and old are invited to dress up and participate by Trunk-Or-Treating in our parking lot. Come prepared with a bag of candy to pass out, and decorate your car/trunk in Halloween style. The Packers Game is at 7:30 pm, so no worries about time! Watch for a sign up on the kiosk for each event.

CHRISTUS NEWS

Page 9

MUSIC NOTES We are always seeking more people to participate in the music program at Christus, and not only at the late service. If you “To keep up with more of the latest are able to add your information... vocal talents to our early please sign up for service by song leading or the weekly email update by by providing extra contacting instrumental support, you Bruce…” are greatly encouraged to speak to music director, Bruce Koestner. This is a great way for high school students to earn the

required volunteer hours necessary for graduation in some locations, such as Hortonville. To keep up with more of the latest information on anthem openings, Wednesday choir rehearsal schedules and other musical events, please sign up for the weekly email update by contacting Bruce at [email protected] or (920) 209-5932.

WEATHER CANCELLATIONS Any Church activities that need to be cancelled or postponed due to weather, will be communicated through our website: www.christuschurch.org; Facebook: Christus Lutheran Church-Greenville, WI; WFRV (CBS); WLUK (Fox & CW); WBAY (ABC); WGBA (NBC); 107.5 (WDUZ); 106.7 (WKRU); Star 98; 103.1 (WOGB); 99.5 & 104.9 (The Wolf); 101.1 (WIXX);100.3 (WNCY);1360 AM & 97.5 FM (WTAQ); 1440 AM (WNFL); and 99.7 FM (WYDR). Christus follows the Hortonville School District dismissal.

DAYTIMERS’ POT-LUCK LUNCHEON Won’t you join us? Daytimers is a social group for everyone! If you are retired, working close, living close, or just have

the day off, then the Daytimers’ pot-luck is for you! The 2nd Wed. of each month at 11:30 a.m., the Daytimers meet at Christus (and sometimes we even have field trips!) for a pot-

luck luncheon. Stop in with a dish to pass and a friend, if you wish, and join other Christianminded friends for our next monthly luncheon on October 8. Don’t miss out on the fun!

ONLINE GIVING JUST GOT EASIER WITH OUR SMART PHONE QR CODE You can be routed directly to the mobile version of our online-giving page by scanning this image. Or log-on to our website: christuschurch.org and click on the DONATION page.

CHRISTUS NEWS

Page 10

PIZZAS ARE BACK 9” or 12” pizzas available. Cheese, sausage, pepperoni, or sausage and pepperoni, are your choices. Pizzas range in cost from $3.50 to $5.50, and we have special deals if you buy 3 at a time. Look for order information and pick-up dates coming soon. You can also order by emailing Christine at [email protected]. All proceeds will support Christus Missions.

BLOOD DRIVE UPDATE Our next Blood Drive date is coming up on October 12, from 7:45 am-Noon. If you’ve never given blood before, it is a quick and rewarding way to give back. What have you got to lose?! You never know when you or someone you love will be on the receiving end of life-giving blood.

NEW MEMBER RECEPTION New members will be received into the Christus Community on Sunday, October 12. All current members are encouraged to join us for a New Member Reception after each worship service on that day to meet and give a personal welcome to these children of God.

CALLING ALL MOTHERLY WOMEN:

THIS IS JUST FOR YOU

If you have infants to middle school students, toddlers to high school students, beloved pets to elementary school students… Yes, even pet moms are moms to us! We would love for you to join us for faith, fellowship, food and most of all, FRIENDSHIP. By taking time to grow closer to God, build relationships, and have fun, you will be refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to take on all of a mom’s daily challenges. Christus will once again offer our Minglin’ Moms group on Tuesday mornings. Kids are welcome on Tuesdays, and snacks and coffee provided. In addition, we’d like to extend the offer to working moms or those that can’t attend Tuesdays to our once-a-month Girls’ Night Out. There will be a sign-up sheet posted at church or you can watch for the Christus Facebook page to post a link to the Minglin’ Moms group on Facebook where we’ll post events, topics and general info. Feel free to bring a friend or neighbor! Minglin’ Moms October 14, 21 and 28: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Christus

CHRISTUS GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT Come join other women from Christus for some good fellowship time one evening a month. Our first destination will be The StoneYard, October 20, at 6:30 p.m. Come for dinner, or drinks, or an appetizer, but surely come for some good times with other Christian women. Sign up on the kiosk.

CHRISTUS NEWS

Page 11

PET BLESSING WORSHIP

CHRISTUS NEWS

Page 12

PET BLESSING WORSHIP

RALLY DAY PICNIC

CHRISTUS NEWS

Page 13

MINISTRY MINUTE Worship Team: The Worship Team has several new, fresh ideas to make services meaningful and thought provoking. We are planning to offer some alternative, non-Sunday services such as a Prayer Around the Cross Service and a Wednesday Lenten Service. We are always open to new ideas and input and anyone is welcome to join our team. We are also looking for members who are creative and would like to join a Liturgical Arts Team. What is Liturgical Arts? This ministry provides opportunities to creatively express either the theme of the church calendar or a specific sermon. Service Team: The Service Ministry Team coordinates Giving Projects that benefit members of Christus, the Fox Valley Area and beyond. Upcoming projects include collecting money for Thanksgiving turkeys (through the Hortonville Food Pantry), a Cookie Walk Sunday, December 14, and an Adopt-a-Friend Christmas giving project. Anyone interested in these types of projects is encouraged to attend our meetings (see calendar).

VOLUNTEER/DONATION OPPORTUNITIES HELP WANTED We’ve got some great, new opportunities coming up at Christus! Please check out the list below and consider if you might be interested in helping out with these ministries! Sunday Multimedia Operator: Be part of making our 10:35 a.m. worship service go smoothly. We are currently seeking 1-2 individuals to add to our multimedia line-up. Schedules are created quarterly so you always have plenty of advance notice to make switches if necessary. Interested? Treasurer: Our current Treasurer, Mike Seeber, is stepping down after many years of fine service. Going forward, bookkeeping responsibilities will be handled by an outside bookkeeper. The Treasurer’s duties would be as noted below: 

attend monthly Business Management Team meeting and review that month’s financial performance



have a general “business” knowledge and be able to read a financial statement



work with the church secretary and the new bookkeeper by reviewing their monthly work



twice a month, sign the payables’ checks after church secretary processes them



have a general knowledge of QuickBooks – be able to print out a report or investigate something



walk the bookkeeper through making any kind of change in payroll (service through Benefit Mall)

Christus Needs 

Bleach wipes for nursery



Kleenex for nursery



Markers for nursery

Budgeting: 

work with Business Management Team and Ministry teams in compiling the expense budget 

budget for contribution income (after pledge information is received) 

budget other areas of miscellaneous income (designated, Scrip, etc.)

October Grocery List for the Food Pantry 

Canned Soup



Canned Fruit



Canned Veggies



present the budget for approval to the church council and congregation



guide the bookkeeper through entering the budget numbers into QuickBooks

It is estimated the Treasurer’s responsibilities would take approximately five hours/month. If you are interested in serving in this volunteer role, please contact Pastor Jen or our current Treasurer, Mike Seeber, for more information.

FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Page 14

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY Every Wednesday morning at 9:30 am, faithful women meet in The Center to discuss Bible readings each week. You do not need to register or be a member of Christus to join in the fun, so please invite a friend or two and share the good news!

MEN’S FELLOWSHIP GROUP Men’s Fellowship Group meets at Christus at 6:30 pm on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month. Men of all ages are invited. On October 9, they will begin the series, “Stepping Up, A Call to Courageous Manhood," which is a 10-Week DVD series by FamilyLife. A book is required to be purchased at an additional cost, either in hard copy or kindle version. Please sign up on the kiosk if interested. More information on the series can be found at www.mensteppingup.com.

“On October 9, they will begin the series, “Stepping Up, A Call to Courageous Manhood," which is a 10-Week DVD series by FamilyLife.

FAITH DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES You’re invited to walk with us this year as we explore:

Faith Foundations As a faith community, we will walk together to dig deeper into what it is we believe not only as individuals, but as a community of faith. We hope you’ll join us on our year-long journey!

Coming Up In October: October 5, 12, and 19: Table and Font: Who is Welcome? In August of this year, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, extended an invitation to all ELCA congregations to engage in a churchwide study on communion practices. Using the materials provided by the ELCA and the document, “The Use of the Means of Grace,” we will discuss our understanding of this sacrament, as well as who is welcome at the Lord’s Supper. We will also have an opportunity to learn about communion practices around the ELCA, as well as here at Christus. All are invited and encouraged to be a part of this important conversation. October 26: Open Sunday Come hang out in The Center and enjoy coffee and fellowship with one another.

FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Page 15

FAITH DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Big News! Pub Theology at The Stoneyard will continue into the Fall! Join us every other Monday at 6:30 pm to gather around a beverage of your choice and a theme to get discussion going. We’ll take some time to talk about how real life includes real faith, and how God is present in this world on more than just Sundays. We’ll take a look at different theological questions, then we’ll also take some time to put a Lutheran lens on things. Topics will be announced in worship the Sunday before each gathering. ALL are welcome! Upcoming Dates: September 29 October 13 & 27

NEWS FROM AROUND THE SYNOD

The Central Lay School of Ministry Of the East Central Synod of Wisconsin Presents the Fourth Annual

“Listen to My Teaching” -Proverbs 3:1-2 A Day of Theological and Spiritual Refreshment Saturday, October 25, 2014 8:30 am-2:30 pm

Saint Andrew Lutheran Church 3200 North Mountain Road Wausau, WI 54401

Classes held at:

Come join us for a full day of learning as we explore diverse topics in spirituality, theology, Bible study, and more. There’s something for everyone! Don’t miss it! Look for more information at our website www.wausaulayschool.org, or in your congregation’s announcements.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE SYNOD

Page 16

For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. I Corinthians 1:18

Bishop Gerald Mansholt

There was a time in my ministry as bishop when I was going through a particularly difficult time, questioning my call, wondering what God was up to, if anything, in the Church and the world. The struggles were such that I welcomed an invitation for a retreat, about this time of year, in the days around Holy Cross Day, and visited Conception Abbey in northwest Missouri. I guess I would describe my time there as one of decompression, stepping away from the routine of bishop-y things. The time was filled with solitude, soulsearching, and quiet reflection. On a beautiful September afternoon, I took a stroll on a path around a small lake on the abbey grounds. The sky was blue, the red brick chapel in the distance, maturing corn fields surrounding the grounds, the wind gentling blowing. I sat on a bench, raised my head, and found myself gazing upon a nearby wooden cross, pondering the meaning of it all. To this day I cannot explain it, only tell what I experienced. But clarity came upon me and entered my soul. It renewed my confidence in the Promise of God, that in the cross of Christ (and his resurrection!) God was at work for the mending of creation, for the healing of the world, reconciling the world unto himself. And I left that brief Sabbath refocused, restored, renewed. The cross is a symbol of death, historically the place of execution, a horrible and humiliating way to die. Yet the paradox of the Christian message is this is where healing for the broken world begins, the place where, as Frederick Buechner said, "such a mighty heart was broken that the healing power of God could flow into a sick and broken world." Soon I will be installed as your bishop and I pray this message, this promise of God, foolish as it sounds, will be at the heart of our life together.

CHILDREN & YOUTH

Page 17

THANK YOU TO OUR VBS VOLUNTEERS You helped make VBS a success! We could not have done it without you all!

Laura Burow

Kayla Holewinski

Will Stenson

Asher Celsor

Oressa Kulack

Margo Stutz

Chloe Celsor

Archer Lorenz

Riley Taube

Bailey Cichon

Deb Mentzel

Anne Van De Hey

Olivia DeSautel

Kassie Ortiz

Elle Van De Hey

Kaylen Frenkel

Amy Peterson

Lexi Walter

Sadie Gaberell

Melissa Prochnow

Madi Walter

McKenna Gervais

Lynn Relien

Jeanne Zoesch

Riley Hicks

Bret Stenson

Amber Zuleger

And, thank you to all who donated items for VBS!

G2 YOUTH GROUP G2, (high school youth group) meets Wednesdays, from 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm in The Center at Christus. Come for fun and faith, and a chance to chill with your friends.

Church Council

Ministry Team Coordinators

Wendy Bekx, President

Lisa Ahles, Worship Team

John Brattlund, President-elect

Rae Tyriver & Cathy Mertz, Service Team

Chad Lorenz, Liaison to Youth Team

Adam Clifford, Outreach/Fellowship Team

De Dalum, Liaison to Service Team

Jill Beyer, Youth Team

Vacant, Liaison to Worship Team

Lisa Borowski, Faith Development Team

Linda Grundman, Liaison to Outreach Team

Other Church Leaders

Dawn O’Dell, Liaison to Faith Development Team

Adam Hanson, Business Management Team Coordinator, Technical Coordinator, Scrip Coordinator

Luke Zuleger, Liaison to Faith Development Team

Mike Seeber, Treasurer & Business Management Team

Craig Burow, Secretary

Nile Beck, Stewardship Coordinator

Jennifer Christenson, Pastor

Julie Cartwright & Jamie Krueger, Sunday School Co-Coordinators

Staff

Cathy Mertz, PowerPoint Coordinator

Jennifer Christenson, Pastor

Vacant, Multi-media Coordinator

Bruce Koestner, Director of Music

Phyllis Paul, Church Kitchen Coordinator

Christine Loppnow, Director of Youth Ministry

Kelly Taube, Drama Coordinator

Dara Stull, Ministries Coordinator

Tony Brunner, Building & Grounds Coordinator & Business Management Team

Kim Lorenz, Church Secretary

Jim Borowski, Land Use Coordinator

Melissa Prochnow, Cleaning

Dara Stull, Communications & Website Coordinator Vacant, Wedding Coordinator Suzanne Nuernberger, Rod Paul, & Amy Wierschke, Mutual Ministry Team

COMMUNITY EVENTS AND SERVICES Fox Valley Lutheran Homes (FVLH): We have a couple new tenants, but still have two, 1-BD apartments and one, 2-BD apartment available. These apartments are available now with very affordable rents. Linwood Place Apartments allow for independent senior living, but without the responsibilities of home and property upkeep. Tenants are friendly and do many activities together. They really care about each other. Call John, Bldg. Mgr. @ 419-5754 to arrange a tour. To learn more about Fox Valley Lutheran Homes please visit our website at www.fvlhomes.org or call Marlys @ 734-7225.

Everything Belongs: Holding Life's Tensions in Balance Retreat: Have you become weary with the growing tension between peoples and nations, and liberals and conservatives? On a personal level, are you longing to manage stress within your own family or your community because of differing perspectives? The retreat leader is Rev. Bob Ullman, Redeemer UCC in Sussex, WI. Held Friday, Oct. 3 @ 9:30 am-3:30 pm, at Kettlewood Retreats, Cedar Valley, WI. For more information, go to http://www.kettlewoodretreats.com/open-to-the-public-retreats.html. Town of Greenville: October 11th, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Greenville Fire and EMS Open House. See fire apparatus, an ambulance, police cars, ThedaStar, live demonstrations, car seat checks, free food, handouts for kids/parents and more! Fox Valley Warming Shelter: Please join the Fox Valley Warming Shelter for our 3rd annual Grateful Plateful fundraiser on Oct. 9th! The event will be held at the Grand Meridian, 2621 N. Oneida St. in Appleton from 5-8 p.m. Guests will enjoy a heavy hors d’oeuvres buffet, program, silent auction, and entertainment by Druids Table, a local Celtic band. Tickets for $50 available online at www.foxvalleywarmingshelter.org, at Festival Foods in Darboy, Appleton and Neenah, or call Connie at 419-0928 to purchase. The Shelter staff and board thanks your church for all its support over the years and we hope you will celebrate our signature event with us! Creating Hope: The Power of Faith Communities in Mental Health Recovery: This conference is sponsored by NAMI Fox Valley and Samaritan Counseling Center of the Fox Valley, and is to help raise awareness and greater understanding regarding the impact of mental health within the congregation, and the partnership that can be shared in addressing hope and healing. Grand Meridian, 2621 N Oneida St, Appleton, Oct. 30, 8 am-4:30 pm. The cost is $50 per person which includes refreshments, lunch, and the entire day's event. For more information, contact Doug Bisbee at [email protected] or Ann Jadin at [email protected].

Birds in Art & Magical Foxes: Oct. 9, travel to a beautiful rural location in Marathon County to learn about one of Wisconsin’s most amazing stories of success, innovation and persistence. From humble German frontier farm roots, an astonishing enterprise developed. Hear the history of the treasure that high society and the best fashion houses sought. Learn about a major “stock” loss and the resultant vaccine that is used to this day. You’ll tour the Fromm Bros. Farm, 1930’s home of the “million dollar foxes.” Before the magical fox farm, the site was the largest ginseng operation in the world. See The Clubhouse, built entirely of hardwood logs with two massive stone fireplaces and a bowling alley – now a museum for displaying artifacts and photos from the Fromm Bros. operation, with beautiful “Persian” carpets and comfortable leather furnishings. The tour entails considerable walking, farm outbuildings, and some staircases spanning 3 stories, and will include vivid verbal recreations of life on the ranch. Following the tour, we’ll relocate to the Marathon County seat Wausau, where you can choose your lunch eatery near the city square. Afterwards, ride up the hill into a beautiful residential area that is home to the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Museum. For nearly 35 years, The Birds In Art exhibition of two and three-dimensional jury-selected art work has been an annual showcase for an international cast of artists who vie for inclusion of their work in this show. A docent will guide you through the exhibit and then you’ll have some additional time to explore the ins and outs of the museum that most appeal to you. On the return trip to the Fox Cities, we’ll stop at Nueske’s Company Store where you can peruse a complete selection of their apple wood smoked meats, Wisconsin cheese specialty items and enjoy some samples. Cost: $64 or $69 Includes transportation, admissions and tours. Contact the YMCA for more details. Spaghetti Supper: Grace Lutheran Church of Winchester is hosting an “all-you-can-eat” spaghetti supper Thurs., Oct. 2, 4:30-7 pm. Featuring 3 kinds of spaghettis sauce, garlic bread, salad & dessert. $6 adults/$3 children 10 & under. Free for little ones.