First English Ev. Lutheran Church

Inside this issue:

Pastor Christina Veres

Sunday Sermon 2

December Calendar Dates

Annual Meeting

Sound of Music Thank You 4

Stewardship Sunday 5

Holy Land and Jordan Trip

World Hunger

LSSM Dinner Meeting

6

Adult Education 7

Gift Wish List

Organ Fund

Open Door Series

8

Board of Social Action

Valpraiso Tea 9

Carol-a-long

10

Board of Fellowship

Columbarium

Financial Summary

11

Board of Evangelism

Women of the Church

Women's Advent Service

12

With the Members

Parish Ed/Youth News

Board of Youth

13

Holiday Decorating 15

Recycle

Preschool

Kroger Rewards 15

November Birthdays 16

Serving in November 17

Calendar 18

REFLECTING BACK –MOVING FORWARD

Dear Members and Friends of First English,

When the calendar turns over to a New Year, we hear a great deal about “New Year’s

Resolutions.” However, I would like to suggest something akin, but a bit different, i.e.

“Reflecting Back – Moving Forward.” What I mean is that the end of the old year and the

beginning of the new is great time to look back, not only over the past year, but back over the

past of our lives, and truly reflect upon where we are, how we are doing, what is good, what is

not so good, what needs changing.

Further I would like to suggest that we proceed by utilizing some basic life

categories to keep us on track. Let’s begin at the beginning – our relationship with God!

Now I know that you expect a pastor to list this first, but it is God who has given us life, it is

God who has redeemed our life through his Son, and it is God, through the Spirit, who guides

and directs us each and every day of our lives unto eternity– thus our relationship with God

is our most important relationship!!! Now, let’s be honest - how is your relationship with

God? Does God seem distant, someone we come to only when we have a problem or a con-

cern, someone we worship only on special Holidays? Remember, if God seems distant, it is

we, not God, who has moved! God is always more ready, willing and able to be a part of our

lives and to give meaning, joy, peace, guidance and direction to our lives than we are to seek

his presence. You know week after week people say to me how much their faith means to

them. Our relationship with God is very central and meaningful!

Secondly as we reflect and move forward, I would suggest that we examine our

relationship with our immediate family. All families have ups and downs, disagreements -

those are the givens in life for we live in a far from perfect world. I love St. Paul’s words in

Romans 12:18, “So far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Typically we want

others to change, and we fail to reflect upon the responsibility that we have within our

family to work on strengthening relationships. Also you expect a pastor to say this, but it is

very true, are we as parents, grandparents, passing on the faith to our children and grandchil-

dren, are we encouraging them to cultivate an active worship, learning, prayer and

devotional life, do we set the example in our Christian living? We all know it, but often

f o r g e t t h a t “ a c t i o n s d o s p e a k l o u d e r t h a n w o r d s ! ”

Thirdly, I would suggest that we focus upon our relationship with others – extended

family, friends, work associates, and neighbors near and far. No we cannot control what

others do but we can and should control what we do, how we interact, how we respond to

others. Do we practice the “Fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,

generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control?” (Galatians 5:22ff) If we would employ

these virtues in our human relationships, we will be amazed at the positive response that we

receive from others!

I of course could go on and on, but not only am I running out of space, but more

importantly I would suggest that if we take care of the basics, other things have a way of

falling in line. Lastly, I invite you to note how all three of my suggestions center around

relationships. This is not by accident, God created us, and all people, in his image so that he

could be in relationship with us, we with him, we with others and others with us.

During this “changing of the year” take the time to reflect and move forward!

See you at worship!

God’s Blessings,

Pastor Schmidt

J A N UA RY 2 0 14J A N UA RY 2 0 14J A N UA RY 2 0 14

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GOD IS WITH US

Fourth Sunday in Advent December 22, 2013 FELC Matthew 1:18-25

We are now only two days away from Christmas Eve. However, while our

gospel lesson for today centers on the birth of Jesus, notice that the real emphasis is

upon Mary and even more upon Joseph.

And you know what, I believe that this emphasis upon Mary and Joseph is

very appropriate, for on Christmas Eve, we obviously reflect upon the birth of Jesus

and what that means for our lives, and rightly so. But now, here, just before Christ-

mas it gives us an opportunity to reflect upon the roles of two very important people

in this Christmas drama, namely Mary and Joseph.

Now we tend to picture Mary and Joseph serenely standing or kneeling at the

manger in that stable, looking at Jesus, their new-born son, filled with obvious pride

and joy. But we often forget about the difficult road, both literally and figuratively,

that lead them to that stable.

Most Biblical scholars suggest to us that Mary was only 15 or 16 years old,

which was the typical age at which a girl would be betrothed in that time and place.

Can you imagine what must have been going through her mind when this

angel comes to her and tells her that she will give birth to the Son of God? I don’t

know about you, but I think that would frighten anyone and fill anyone’s mind with

all kinds of questions!

And then can you just imagine Mary trying to tell her parents, let alone Joseph,

her betrothed, her fiancé, as we would say today, that she is pregnant, but not by

another man, no, she is with child by the Holy Spirit!

Then of course, there is that long, five-day journey from Nazareth in Galilee in

the north of Israel, to Bethlehem in Judea, in the south of Israel, to comply with the

census decree of Caesar Augustus; only to find that when they get there that there is

no room in the inn, only the protection of a stable, a shelter for animals, to give birth

to her first-bon child!

Then there is Joseph, really the main character of our gospel lesson for today.

What was he to do? His betrothed was expecting and he knew that the child was not

his. Who can blame him for wanting to dismiss her quietly? And of course if he had

made a big deal about this, it could have resulted in the Mary’s death, for death by

stoning was the ancient sentence for adultery!

But as our text tells us, God sends an angel, a messenger, to tell him that this

fantastic story, which Mary tells him, is true, and he agrees to take Mary as his

wife. He is also told to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from the sins as

the name Jesus literally means “God Saves.”

Now, my point is simply this: both Mary and Joseph had very difficult

parts to play in the birth of Jesus, and we have not as yet even mentioned the fact

that shortly after Jesus is born the entire family must flee to Egypt to escape the

wrath of King Herod. In short, just as they get started in their life together with their

young son they are forced to become refugees!

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MISSION STATEMENT

‘GO, MAKE DISCIPLES’

First English Ev. Lutheran Church

800 Vernier Road

Grosse Pointe Woods,

48236-1530

Phone: 313.884.5040

Fax: 313.884.4460

www.feelc.org

Senior Pastor

Dr. Walter A. Schmidt

pastors@feelc.org

Associate Pastor

Rev. Christina Veres

pastorchris@feelc.org

Education/Youth Coordinator

Renata Conger

renata@feelc.org

Pastor Emeritus

Rev. Paul F. Keppler

OFFICE HOURS

8a.m. — 12:30 p.m.

1:30p.m. — 4:00p.m.

(Monday—Friday)

WINTER WORSHIP SCHEDULE

9:30 a.m. - Contemporary Worship with Holy Communion

9:30 a.m. – Sunday School

11:00 a.m. - Traditional Worship (Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday)

Sunday, December 29, 2013 ONE SERVICE ONLY at 10:00 a.m.

(No service on New Year’s Eve)

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Now I generally do not use long quotations in my sermons but I want to make an exception today for Peter

Gomes, from Harvard Divinity School, I believe does an excellent job of putting this all into perspective for us.

Now in his comments, following our Gospel lesson for today, he is focusing upon Joseph, but the same can certainly

be said as well for Mary.

He says, “’Fear not Joseph, son of David,’ you fear disgrace. You fear embarrassment and shame for

yourself and for Mary. You fear public scandal. You fear that your reputation will suffer, but it will not happen.

For out of this fear comes an opportunity that neither you nor your worthy ancestors could have imagined. And,

what is this opportunity that comes out of real fear and alleged disgrace? It is this Joseph: you will become the

guardian of God. You will be the protector of the Savior of the world. You, Joseph will become foster parent to

hope. Even your lucky ancestor David could not have imagined such an opportunity, and it has come to you

unasked, unsought, and undeserved.”

The author continues, “The miracle to which our attention should be drawn at this Holy season is the fact

that Joseph believed what he heard and acted upon it! The miracle here is that a sensible, reasonable, pragmatic,

ordinary, good man named Joseph acts contrary to the evidence that surrounds him on every hand. He sees the

evidence. He understands it. He knows the implication and in spite of all that, he acts according to the will of

God!

This then is an example of faith. And when Joseph could have “cut and run,” he stayed and remained

faithful. And, it was an active participation in the great drama of the incarnation that he played. Clear in his

conscience as to what duty now was, with a little help from angels, Joseph did it! And for that he must be given

credit, praise and pride of place.

Dr. Gomes goes on to say, “years ago, I was talking to a little boy during a rehearsal of another Sunday

School pageant in my home church. I asked this clever boy what part he had in the pageant. He said it was a rather

small part, in fact, insignificant. He had hoped to be a king, or at least a shepherd, perhaps one of the animals. But

all he got was the part of Joseph who had no speaking part whatsoever, ‘I don’t have much to do,’ he said.

But not only did Joseph have a role to play; he played it very well indeed. The New Testament is at pains

to show us that Joseph not simply disappear after the angels and shepherds went away, but that he carried out his

responsibilities until he died. He married Mary. He got her to Bethlehem. He secured a room for them to give

birth. He stood his place at her side and he took whatever came his way.

We see him at his most heroic when in another angelic chat he learns of the danger threatening his new

family. Herod is about to slaughter all of the babies. And so, he leads his family on a Holy flight into Egypt, for

out of Egypt will come all of those who save Israel: Moses, Joseph and now Jesus.

And we discover him yet in another glorious dream where he learns that all is well, that Herod is dead, and

that they can now return. And so he returns with his family, but not to same place for a wicked ruler was in place

there. So he goes to another place so that prophecy could be fulfilled that Jesus shall be called a Nazarene.”

Yes, the Good Lord did place quite a burden upon Mary and Joseph and I wonder if we sort of take for

granted what those two ordinary people did for you and for me. They followed the will of God, they provided a

home, protection, love and care for the savior, the Son of God. They raised him and nurtured him until some

30 years later when that same Mary would be forced to watch the gruesome crucifixion of that same son.

Now as we reflect upon the roles played by Joseph and Mary it seems appropriate to ask ourselves what roll

are we, you and I, playing in the birth of Jesus??? Obviously Jesus has already been born and he does not need to

be reborn; and we are 2000 years removed from the protection and nurture provided by Joseph, but that same

one who was born in a stable in Bethlehem does have some specific words for we who call ourselves his followers.

He calls upon us to go and make disciples; in fact these are the last words that our Lord gives to us before

he ascends to the Heavenly Father. When was the last time we invited someone to worship or spoke of our faith or

what our relationship with Jesus Christ means to us in our lives and in our family??? You know, Christmas Eve

would be a great time to invite a neighbor, friend or co-worker with you for worship!!!

Our Lord calls upon us to love God with our whole heart, soul, mind and strength. Do we place God first in

our lives??? Does the use of our gifts and abilities reflect that God is utmost in our lives, that our commitment

to him and his ministry is foremost???

Jesus also admonishes us as his followers to love our neighbor as ourselves. Do we reach out that hand of

(Continued from page 2)

(Continued on page 11)

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The Women of the Church will be holding their annual planning meeting for our two events (Spring/Fall, 2014) in January, 2014. Please let Waynette Hostetler or either pastor know if there is anything you would be interested in doing or suggestions for a speaker. Better yet come to the meeting and present your thoughts in person. Please watch the upcoming bulletins for the exact date of our meeting.

NEW MEMBER RECEPTION –SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2014

New members will be formally received on Sunday, February 9, 2014 at the 11:00 AM worship service.

Our Board of Evangelism is organizing a reception in honor of our new members and their sponsors following the

service.

If you are aware of anyone who might be interested in joining the First English family, please speak to Pas-

tor Chris or Pastor Schmidt. Don’t be bashful – invite your friends, neighbors, work associates to be involved in the

ministry of First English, you’ll be glad you did, and so will they!!!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2013

Just a reminder that on Sunday December 29, 2013 – we have one service at

10:00 a.m. with special New Year emphasis (New Year’s Weekend/ no service on New

Year’s Eve).

ANNUAL MEETING/NOMINATIONS/ANNUAL REPORTS

At our Annual Meeting held Sunday, December 1, 2013, First English congregation approved all of the

reports, cast a unanimous ballot for all nominees for the listed offices, council and board members, and approved

the 2014 operating and mission budget.

We thank all of our officers, council members and board members for their service to First English, especially those

whose term expires at the end of the year. A special note of thank to Charles Jackson for his very able leadership as

president of the congregation over the past two years.

New and continuing officers, council members and board members will be formally installed at both services on

Sunday, January 12, 2014.

Officers for 2014-2015, all two year terms, are: Marc Simone, President; Roger Ulmer, Vice President;

Christina Judson, Secretary, Pam Southard, Treasurer and John Nyquist, Financial Secretary. We thank

these members for their willingness to serve First English!

A THANK YOU from Pastor Schmidt Thank you to all of our members who contributed in any way during this

very busy Holiday Season – our choirs, our teachers, those who helped with the

many services, those who assisted with our fellowship gatherings, those who

beautifully decorated our church, those who bought Christmas gifts for our

adopted families and provided groceries and gift cards for the food baskets, plus

our staff for all of their extra work. Yes, it was a busy time, but a very blessed

time and it is very blessed to be able to give. THANK YOU!

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HOLY LAND TOUR – ISRAEL AND JORDAN

Our Israel/Jordan tour is a go. We have a few less travelers than we wanted but enough to receive the group

rate. The dates are February 26 – March 8, 2014, and if you still want to join us, while we cannot make any guar-

antees for we are past the 90 day cut off, please speak to Pastor Schmidt and we will see what we can do.

A tour of the Holy Land is truly a pilgrimage! Seeing the actual sites where the Biblical events took place

makes the Bible truly come alive like no traditional Bible study can. In addition, the “Rose Red” city of Petra,

Jordan is a wonder to behold!

BOARD OF FELLOWSHIP news

Hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year's holiday. The Fellowship Board will be planning events for 2014, so look for postings in the Clef and weekly bulletins. Lent starts on Ash Wednesday - March 5, please consider hosting a Lenten Lunch or Dinner, there will be a sign-up poster in the Lounge.

and that includes all of our beautiful Christmas decorations.

Sunday, January 12th is the big day!

Please plan to stay after the 11:00 service

on the 12th, or come back to help at noon, when we

will dismantle the sanctuary and put all other decorations back into storage.

To all of you who helped with the other trees -

THANK YOU VERY MUCH! They were all beautiful!

Now it would be helpful if they could be

taken down, at your convenience, anytime between

Monday, January 6th and Saturday, January 11th.

At noon on Sunday, January 12th, not only will we need help with the sanctuary, but we will also need help

putting all the decorations back into their storage places. (Hopefully in an organized manner!)

Thanks once again for your support and help in making this year the most

beautiful ever at First English!

Jacki Stein 586-961-6618, jjsstein@aol.com and

Kyle Clor 313-881-9703, skimom7921@hotmail.com

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STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY The Holiday Season is indeed a very busy time of the year and with so much

going on you may not have had the opportunity to make your financial commitment to support the ministry of this

part of Christ’s Body known as First English Lutheran Church.

For your convenience we have included a copy of the “Commitment Sheet.” Please simply fill it out, mail it

to the church office, or place in the offering plate. As a reminder the top line is for the weekly operating expenses of

the church and the bottom line is for the monthly mission envelope which supports ministries outside of First

English. As you know we have a very active, involved ministry at and through First English which requires the

support of all of our members. On behalf of the mission and ministry of First English Lutheran Church, thank you

for your ongoing support!

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ADULT EDUCATION AT A GLANCE

9:30 a.m. THURSDAY MORNING BIBLESTUDY

Martin Luther and the Lutheran Reformation is our

Thursday Morning Bible Study topic. Our “study book” is Luther the

Reformer by James Kittelson, the late professor of Reformation History

at Luther Seminar.

These sessions, which are led by Pastor Schmidt, meet Thursday

mornings, 9:30 -11:00 AM. One cannot deal honestly with the history

of the church or the world, without looking at the life and work of

Martin Luther! We meet every Thursday morning, enjoy some

goodies during a break, and while we do have a nice size group, there is

always room for more! Join us as together we explore our Lutheran

Heritage!

We resume our time together after the Holidays on Thursday,

January 9, 2014 with Pastor Schmidt showing his slides of our tours to

the “Luther Land.” If you are free on Thursday mornings we would

love to have you join with us!

THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS Thank you to all of our members who have directed their “Thrivent Choice Dollars” to support the mission

and ministry of First English. Over $2,000.00 was donated last year to First English through this program. If you

are a Thrivent policy holder you are eligible to also direct your support to First English. The rules have changed a

bit in that now the gifting of the “Thrivent Choice Dollars” must be done annually. You can direct your gifts to

First English by calling Thrivent at 1-800-THRIVENT (800-847-4836) and state “Thrivent Choice” or on line at

Thrivent.com. Again, thank you for your support; it is greatly appreciated!

Grace Circle - Fourth Monday at 7:00 p.

Peace Circle - First Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.

Faith Circle - First Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.

Hope Circle - Second Wednesday at 11:30 a.m.

Check the calendar at www.feelc.org

WOMEN’S CIRCLE BIBLE STUDY

Our Women’s Circle Bible study for this year through next

spring is “In Good Company: Stories of Biblical Women.”

In our time together we will explore stories of women from

both the Old and New Testaments as well as contemporary

women. Our study for January is “Abigail, A Calm

Strategist.” The story of Abigail and her husband, Nabal

takes place during the time of King Saul and David and is a

beautiful story of how Abigail’s efforts saved her people.

(I Samuel 25).

All women of First English are encouraged to attend a

Circle. Ladies, please check the calendar for the various

Circles meeting schedule.

9:30a.m. ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL

Why not start off the New Year on the

right foot and join us for our Adult

Sunday School Class on the

THE LIFE OF JESUS. We meet

during the Sunday School hour, 9:30

– 10:30 a.m., in the Lounge and these

sessions are led by Pastor Chris and

Pastor Schmidt.

This full overview of Jesus’

life and teaching will take us through

the winter into the Season of Lent.

Let’s face it, we all could learn more

and have a greater appreciation for

what our Lord has done for us! Please

join us as we together grow in our

appreciation and understanding of the

life and teaching of our Lord and what

that means for our lives.

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GIFT WISH LIST

TUCKPOINTING AND PILLAR REPAIRS

ORGAN FUND

COLUMBARIUM FOR FIRST ENGLISH

First English Lutheran Church has approved a Columbarium Project for our facility. When sufficient niches are sold, the Columbarium will be placed in the narthex (please see computer

drawing on the bulletin board in the main hallway). Before construction begins, the companion niches, which hold two urns, will be sold for

$1,500.00; after construction begins they will sell for $1,800.00. We will give the congregation sixty days notice before raising the price to $1,800.00. Niches will be assigned on a “first come-

first-served” basis, with members being able to choose the location of their niche within the Columbarium. To date nine double niches have been sold.

If sufficient niches are not sold, all funds will be returned to those who purchased niches. If you have any questions please speak to Pastor Schmidt.

Our organ at First English is over fifty years old, and over the past 10 years has had switching

components beginning to fail. Because the original components of the organ console haven’t been manufactured since the early 1970’s, the console and its related switching need to be rebuilt to have the organ fully functional again. The Peterson Company, which would do the console rebuild,

estimates repairs to be approximately $110,000. Funding at this point is at $52,500 thanks to the Gladys Greenburg Fund, her family has approved the use of this fund to help with the repairs.

If you wish to help with these repairs, please mark your envelope "Organ Fund" and place in the offering plate or leave in the office. Thank you!-The Board of Worship and Music.

OPEN DOOR SERIES coming events…..

This past year the first unit of our facility required tuck-pointing of the outer walls to prevent costly water

damage. In addition the pillars by the southeast entrance to the Narthex required repair. Our Board of Church

Properties received bids for the above repairs and the Church Council approved these projects. The total cost was

$19,600.00, and these repairs have now all been completed. If you would like to assist with the cost of this project

simply mail your check to the church or place in the offering plate. Please designate your gift for

“Church Maintenance.” Thank You!

April 6, 2014 7:00 p.m. Come hear THE GRUNYONS, as they return to the First English Music Series after a brief appearance last year with the Grosse Pointe Community Chorus. The nearly two dozen talented singers will croon popular favorites in an irresistible eight-part vocal jazz style that is interspersed with zany commentary and loads of fun! ADMISSION $10.00 Adults $ 7.00 Students and Seniors

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BOARD OF SOCIAL ACTION

SCHEDULES & CONTACT NUMBERS Just a reminder concerning the schedules of Pastor Chris and Pastor Schmidt. Pastor Chris’ day off is Friday and in an emergency she can be contacted at 248-231-5091. Her email address is pastorchris@feelc.org. Pastor Schmidt’s day off remains on Monday and his home phone number for emergencies is 313-882-3520. His email address is pastors@feelc.org. Church office hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the office closed for lunch from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Sue’s email is sue@feelc.org

The 12 Days of Christmas at First English

On the First Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

A Giving Tree adorned with 116 children’s tags

On the Second Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Two wonderful pastors

On the Third Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Three Star Tree-Toppers

On the Fourth Day of Christmas, FLEC gave to me:

Four Large Wreaths in the Narthex

On the Fifth Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Five Favorite Trees

On the Sixth Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Six donations for turkey gift cards

On the Seventh Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Seven singers singing

On the Eighth Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Eight bells a ringing

On the Ninth Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Nine bags of groceries

On the Tenth Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Ten excellent bakers

On the Eleventh Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Eleven pounds of homemade cookies

On the Twelfth Day of Christmas, FELC gave to me:

Twelve incomparable Social Action Elves

(Kay Butler, JoVona Cisco, Penny Damore, BJ Decker, Virg Ditty, Claudia Gram, Pat Milne,

Heide Montroy, Sue Reck, Carolyn Schmidt, Pat Thomas, Shawn Vinson)

God Bless you, First English members, for making Christmas special for 39 needy families at

Immanuel Lutheran Church! You are the wind beneath our Social Action wings.

Happy Giving in 2014!

Diann Ohman, Board of Social Action

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Parish Education/Youth News from Renata

Sunday School

Schedule There will be no Sunday School on December 29th, but we will resume our regular schedule the following week. So please join us every Sunday morning at 9:30am. Preschool-5th Grade start in the Sanctuary, 6th-8th Grade meets upstairs in the Confirmation Room, and 9th-12th Grade meets downstairs in the Youth Room.

Thank You! A big thank you to the Board of Parish Education, Sunday School teachers, and parents who helped to make the pageant such a marvelous success. It is a true blessing to see the children profess the birth of their Savior in front of their friends, family, and brothers & sisters in Christ of all ages. If you have any suggestions or would like to help out next year, please let us know.

Thanks also to all who attended. We hope you felt the joy of the season as you watched our performance and that this joy will stay with you the whole year through!

This Month Pre- and elementary school are learning about Jesus’ first miracle in “The Wedding at Cana” and about the little miracles that God performs for us each and every day. Kids, remember to bring your bibles with you every Sunday! Parents, remember to read through the stories with your children at home.

Middle school is discussing what famous biblical figures did to stand up against “Dangerous People” while fighting peer pressure and injustice. These are issues we all face, so be sure to join us for some helpful discussion!

High school students are taking “A Fresh Look at the New Testament”—Jesus’ birth, life, death, resurrection, and His purpose for us as His church. This is something we could all use some brushing up on, so be sure not to miss it!

Confirmation & Youth Group

Schedule There will be no Confirmation Class or Youth Group from December 25th-January 2nd. Starting the following week, we will resume our normal schedule. MS Confirmation Class meets weekly on Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30pm and HS Youth Group meets weekly on Thursdays from 6:30-8:30pm.

Serving the Community On December 13th, sixteen middle/high school youth visited three local nursing homes to sing carols and share Christmas greetings with the residents there. Afterwards, thirteen high school youth stayed for the lock-in where they played games, ate junk food, and stayed up till 5am. What a great night!

Super Bowl Sub Sandwich Sale High School Youth will be taking orders for subs during the month of January. Order one or several dozen then pick them up at church on Sunday, February 2nd. All proceeds will help fund our work camp trip to Racine, Wisconsin in June 2014. Thanks for your support!

World Vision’s “30-Hour Famine” High School Youth will be raising funds to help prevent world hunger. The youth will fast on February 7th-8th for 30 hours. If you would like to support the cause, please visit our webpage here. Thank you!

Important Dates December 27-30

The Gathering in Lansing, MI

January 12, 19, & 26; after services HS-sponsored Carwash Ticket Sales

January 12 HS Dinner at Genesis House III

January 24-26 MS & HS Winter Retreat at Michi-lu-ca

February 1 HS Sub-making Party

February 2 HS Super Bowl Sub Sale

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care and concern??? Do we place our lives at the service of one another, are we willing to help, to offer assistance,

one to another???

The Christmas angels spoke of “peace and earth, good will to all.” Do we work for peace in our world, in

our community, in our family? Are we spreaders of good will, do we work for that which builds up the Body of

Christ, do our thoughts, words and deeds reflect God’s good will for our lives???

No, we may not be able to literally give birth to God’s son. No, we may not be able to provide a home,

guidance and protection to the Christ child; but we can provide a Christian home for our children and

grandchildren; we can bring up our children “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord,” and by our example

show them God’s great and gracious love through our lives!

Mary and Joseph have done their part, their duty, they followed through with God’s plan for the salvation of

the world; they did what was asked of them, as difficult as it was! Now what about us??? What we can and

should do, under the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit, is reflect in our lives God’s good and gracious love

and will in our relationship with God and our interactions with others.

In conclusion, our Gospel lesson for today reminds us that Jesus is the Emmanuel, which literally means,

“God with us!” As we prepare to celebrate again our Lord’s birth, let us remember the important and difficult part

that Mary and Joseph played in this great gift of a savior.

And let us ask ourselves, do we live our lives reflecting that God is with us; that he, through Christ our

Lord, dwells in our hearts and lives? O come, O come Emmanuel and live in us forever!

AMEN

Dr. Walter A. Schmidt – December 22, 2013

(Continued from page 3)

BUILDING REMINDER Now that we are in the busy schedule of events at First English, a friendly reminder to turn off lights when leaving a room, and make sure that all of the doors are locked if you are the last one out. We want to keep our utility costs down and our facility safe and secure for all to use. Please remember that all facility requests should be made through Kyle Clor ((313)-881-9703 or via her e-mail at skimom7921@gmail.com.)

NEW MEMBER RECEPTION – As we look ahead, First English will host a formal

New Member Reception on Sunday, February 9, 2014. While that is still off in the future, we like

to give plenty of notice so that members and visitors can make plans. If you are interested in

joining First English, please fill out one of the blue “Visitor Cards” in the pew and hand it to one

of the pastors. Also, if you are aware of anyone who might be interested in being a part of the

First English family, please let the pastors know.

12

RECYCLE PAPER BIN BRING

YOUR

PAPER!!

Please take time to drop all your clean, dry newspapers, magazines, office

and copy paper, advertising inserts and junk mail into the recycle bin in the

parking lot. You don’t have to sort anything or remove

staples. Please bag your shredded paper.

NO CARDBOARD OR PHONE BOOKS ARE ACCEPTED.

The AbitibiBowater Paper Retriever program is designed for organizations to

recycle paper and earn money -- the more you fill the bin, the more money

FEELC makes! Most of all, it’s an opportunity for us to recycle and help the

environment.

Accepting enrollment for 3 & 4 year olds for 2013-14

First English Lutheran Preschool offers an academic program to help pre-pare your child for kindergarten. With a small class size, our program in-

cludes Bible lessons, math, music, science, art, language, beginning reading concepts and physical development. First English has a very large and bright classroom for your child to spend

their morning socializing with friends. Call our director Christine Simone at (313)886-6544 for more information or to arrange a classroom visit.

Preschool News The year is going very well in our preschool room. Mrs. Jackson and I are enjoying an

energetic group of 11 children including a few members of the congregation. In December we

learned about the letters J and W and Christmas. December was a great month to help the

children reflect on the birth of baby Jesus. The children have learned about the first Christmas

through books, songs and acting out the Nativity for parents and grandparents on the December 18th performance prior to

the Christmas break. It has been an exciting time of year in preschool!

Watch the hallway outside our classroom as we share photos and artwork with those who pass by!

-Christine Simone

Have you enrolled or re-enrolled yet?? Please take the time to go online and sign-up or renew your

card and make your donation designation to First English (#83535). If you don’t remember the

email address that you used previously to enroll, you can call (877)576-7587 to remove any email

attached to your card number and then proceed to enroll again. Our fundraising efforts, by

participating in the Kroger Community Rewards Program, have added up to significant money - just

by purchasing your weekly groceries! Up a little from the last quarter, our latest quarterly check

was in the amount of $290.16!!

If you have never signed up – go to Kroger’s website krogercommunityrewards.com and follow

the prompts. You will need your Kroger card.

KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM

13

1/2: Juanita Marshall, Brandon Simone

1/3: Peter Koenig, Joshua Wiitanen,

William Zinn

1/4: Andrew Bertelsen, John Campbell,

Justin Hawthorn, Laurie Stempien,

Debra Stenzel, Glenn Whitcroft

1/5: Mark Lindeman, Russell Milne,

Robert Richards, Ty Telegadas

1/6: Alan Corbishdale, Jody Hartingh,

Angela Levinson, Katarina Stojish

1/7: Colin Beattie, Teresa Gassenfeit,

Daniel Lamar

1/8: Virg Ditty, David Sloss

1/9: Madeline Kohler, Ella Millard

1/10: Jennifer Frohock, Pastor Chris Veres

1/11: David Craig, Jr.

1/12: Brooklynn Marchetti, Mary Tito

1/13: James Butts, Neal Gram III

1/14: Kelli Elwert, Michael Tampakes

1/15: Wilma Greer, Anne Hartingh

Emily Southard, David Strozeski

1/16: Cheryl Conn, Luis Rondon Jr.

1/17: Betty Blohm, Gordon Bush,

Christine Gierman, Kaitlyn LaMagno,

Bradley Russell

1/18: Bradley Homuth, Spencer Lohrstorfer,

Jennifer McDonald, Matthew McGrail,

Peggy Kadrich

1/19: Kathleen Butler, Cori Chase,

William Hosbein

1/20: Elinor Wroblewski

1/21: Denise Homuth, Anthony Sturton

1/22: Mark Balle

1/23: Lynn Augustyn, Glen Hays

1/25: Kevin Reck

1/27: James Guest, Sharon Hassig,

1/28: Nathan Judson, John Kohler,

Thomas Milne

1/29: Suzanne Thomas

1/30: Kristen Engle, Jeffrey Hassig,

Matthew Jackson

1/31: Alison Corbishdale, Katy Roorda

Bryan Kadrich

14

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9:30 Exercise C

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3:00 Music Lessons

4:30-9:30 Sports

5:30 Exercise C

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8:45 Preschool

9:30 Exercise C

lass 11:30 H

ope Circle

3:30 Music Lessons

4:30-9:30 Sports

5:15 Lord's Com

pany Ringers

6:00 Lord's Com

pany Singers

6:30 Catechism

9:30 Bible S

tudy 3:30 M

usic Lessons 4:30 -9:30 S

ports 5:30 E

xercise Class

6:30 Good N

ews S

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S Y

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8:10 Good N

ews R

ingers

8:45 Preschool

5:30 Sports

9:00 Princeton R

eview

10:00 Volleyball

12 13

14 15

16 17

18

9:30 Contem

porary Worship

9:30 Sunday S

chool 11:00 T

raditional Worship

1:00 P

rinceton Review

3:00 -6:30 S

ports

8:45 Preschool

9:30 Exercise C

lass 3:00 M

usic Lessons 6:30 G

irl Scouts T

refoil 6:30-9:30 S

ports

10:00 GP

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usic Lessons 4:30-9:30 S

ports 5:30 E

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7:00 Board of C

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8:45 Preschool

9:30 Exercise C

lass 3:30 M

usic Lessons 4:30-9:30 S

ports 5:15 Lord's C

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9:30 Bible S

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usic Lessons 4:30-9:30 S

ports 5:30 E

xercise Class

6:30 Good N

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8:10 Good N

ews R

ingers

8:45 Preschool

5:30 Sports

9:00 Princeton R

eview

10:00 Volleyball

19 20

21 22

23 24

25

9:30 Contem

porary Worship

9:30 S

unday School

11:00 Traditional W

orship 1:00 P

rinceton Review

3:00-6:30 S

ports 6:30 B

oard & C

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9:30 Exercise C

lass 3:30 M

usic Lessons 4:30-7:30 S

ports

3:00 Music Lessons

4:30-7:30 Sports

5:30 Exercise C

lass

8:45 Preschool

9:30 Exercise C

lass 3:30 M

usic Lessons 4:30 S

ports 5:15 Lord's C

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ingers 6:00 Lord's C

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ingers 6:30 C

atechism

9:30 Bible S

tudy 3:30 M

usic Lessons 4:30-9:30 S

ports 5:30 E

xercise Class

6:30 Good N

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8:10 Good N

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8:45 Preschool

5:30-8:30 Sports

Youth W

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9:00 Princeton R

eview

10:00 Volleyball

26 27

28 29

30 31

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inter Retreat

9:30 Contem

porary Worship

9:30 S

unday School

11:00 Traditional W

orship 1:00 P

rinceton Review

1:30 S

paghetti Dinner - D

ance 3:00-6:30 S

ports

8:45 Preschool

9:30 Exercise C

lass 3:30 M

usic Lessons 6:00 G

race Circle

6:30-9:30 Sports

10:00 GP

N P

izza Lunch 3:30 M

usic Lessons 4:30-7:30 S

ports 5:30 E

xercise Class

8:45 Preschool

9:30 Exercise C

lass 3:30 M

usic Lessons 4:30-9:30 S

ports 5:15 Lord's C

ompany R

ingers 6:00 Lord's C

ompany S

ingers 6:30 C

atechism

9:30 Bible S

tudy 3:30 M

usic Lessons 5:30 E

xercise Class

6:00-9:30 Sports

6:30 Good N

ews S

ingers 6:30 H

S Y

outh Group

8:10 Good N

ews R

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8:45 Preschool

5:30-8:30 Sports