[1]

The Bridge May 2015

Christ the Lord Lutheran Church 847-741-8141

FAX: 847-741-8165 Email: ctloffice@ctlelgin.org Website: www.ctlelgin.org

June Bridge deadline – May 15, 2015

Send items to Karin K at bridge@ctlelgin.org or leave in mailbox on the top of the mail slots outside the church office.

CTL Office Hours Monday: Office closed

Tuesday through Friday: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. These are the regularly scheduled hours for Linda.

Pr. Keith and Dss. Andrea available beyond these hours—please just call!

Worship Schedule

Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 11:00 a.m. Education Hour

We are centered in Christ and reach out to care.

We proclaim Jesus as Lord and Savior. We equip and teach for spiritual growth.

We worship passionately. We minister to the physical and spiritual needs of others.

We discern and use the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We invite and involve others with a welcoming heart.

[2]

Congregational Meeting

[3]

Women of Faith

Contact Name: Dss. Andrea Contact: ctldirmin@ctlelgin.org The more women who go the cheaper the rate. We are inviting other churches.

[4]

Table of Contents

Congregational Meeting .................................................................................. 2 Women of Faith ................................................................................................ 3 Save the Dates .............................................................................................. 5

*WORSHIP NEWS* ............................................................................................................................ 11 Sunday Morning Schedule ............................................................................. 11 Scripture Lessons for May ............................................................................. 11

*FROM OUR LEADERSHIP* ................................................................................................................ 12 From Our Pastor ........................................................................................... 12 From Our Deaconess ..................................................................................... 14

*GET INVOLVED* .............................................................................................................................. 16 Youth News: ................................................................................................... 16 Planning Our Future Together! ..................................................................... 16 Youth Mission Trip ......................................................................................... 17 Spiritual Direction ......................................................................................... 17 Market Day .................................................................................................... 17 Bridge Walk ................................................................................................... 18 Council Elections Discernment Period .......................................................... 18 What is Council Doing Now? ........................................................................ 18 Habitat for Humanity Fundraiser .................................................................. 19 ReNew: VBS ................................................................................................... 19 Travel with the Tolzmanns ............................................................................. 20 Advent Devotional .......................................................................................... 20 Quilts of Valor News ...................................................................................... 21 Shop at Smile.Amazon.com ............................................................................ 21 It’s Coming…God’s Work .............................................................................. 21 Scrip Fundraising .......................................................................................... 21 Services at Rosewood ..................................................................................... 22 Kids Hope USA .............................................................................................. 22 Bridge Group Dinner Schedule ...................................................................... 23 Bound and Ungagged (A book club) .............................................................. 23 Prayerful Humor ............................................................................................ 23 Habitat for Humanity House .......................................................................... 24 Hooks and Needles ......................................................................................... 25

*LEARNING* ..................................................................................................................................... 25 Adult Study Groups ........................................................................................ 25 Morning Bible Study ...................................................................................... 25 Adult Forum ................................................................................................... 25 Women’s Gather Bible Study ......................................................................... 26

*PLEASE REMEMBER* ....................................................................................................................... 27 *SPECIAL DATES TO REMEMBER* ..................................................................................................... 28 *THANK-YOUS* ................................................................................................................................. 29 *CHRIST THE LORD LUTHERAN CHURCH* ......................................................................................... 30

[5]

*Come One Come All* Save the Dates

For future events, be sure the church office and Bridge editor receive date and time information so calendars and space needs are all correct! Please click on blue hyperlinks for more information.

(Full Calendar) Sat., Apr. 25 LOVE ELGIN DAY 9:00 AM Sat., Apr. 25 Women's Gather Bible

Study 9:00 AM

Sun., Apr. 26 Ministry Leaders-Event Scheduling

11:00 AM

Mon., Apr. 27 Community Group-Library Café

9:00 AM

Mon., Apr. 27 CCC Group 7:00 PM Mon., Apr. 27 Cub Scouts 7:00 PM Tue., Apr. 28 Bible & Brew 7:00 PM Tue., Apr. 28 Ministry Leaders-Event

Scheduling 7:00 PM

Tue., Apr. 28 Prayer Group 8:30am - 9:30 Wed., Apr. 29 Confirmation Class 6:30 PM Wed., Apr. 29 Morning Bible Study 10am - 11am Wed., Apr. 29 AA Meetings 12pm - 1pm Thu., Apr. 30 Ministry Leaders-Event

Scheduling 6pm

Thu., Apr. 30 Bells Thu., Apr. 30 Habitat Fundraiser @

Panera, N. Randall

6 AM-9 PM

Fri., May. 01 Community Group-ITN Cafe

9am - 10am

Sat., May. 02 Bound & Ungagged (Book Club)

8am - 9am

Sun., May. 03 Bridge Group - Red Ox, Hwy 72 in Hampshire

4pm - 5pm

Sun., May. 03 Spaghetti Dinner by YOUTH 5pm - 6pm Sun., May. 03 Council Meeting on

Visioning in Library Noon to 2:00

p.m.

[6]

Sun., May. 03 Last Day for Baby Shower donations

10:30 AM

Mon., May. 04 Social Ministry 11:30am Mon., May. 04 CCC Group 7pm - 8pm Mon., May. 04 Cub Scouts 7pm - 8pm Mon., May. 04 Community Group-Library

Café 9am - 10am

Tue., May. 05 Bible & Brew 7pm - 8pm Tue., May. 05 Prayer Group 8:30am - 9:30 Wed., May. 06 Confirmation Class 6:30 PM Wed., May. 06 Morning Bible Study 10am - 11am Wed., May. 06 AA Meetings 12pm - 1pm Wed., May. 06 Ministry Leaders-Event

Scheduling 2pm

Fri., May. 08 Ministry Leaders-Event Scheduling

10am

Fri., May. 08 Cub Scouts 7pm - 8pm Fri., May. 08 Community Group-ITN

Cafe 9am - 10am

Sat., May. 09 E-Team CHANGE DATE Sun., May. 10 Assessment Tool Begins

Online

12:05 AM

Sun., May. 10 LivingWell Bridge Walk Bake Sale

10:30am

Mon., May. 11 CCC Group 7pm - 8pm Mon., May. 11 Community Group-Library

Café 9am - 10am

Mon., May. 11 Cub Scouts Tue., May. 12 Bible & Brew 7pm - 8pm Tue., May. 12 Prayer Group 8:30am - 9:30 Tue., May. 12 Quilts of Valor 9am - 1pm Wed., May. 13 Morning Bible Study 10am - 11am Wed., May. 13 AA Meetings 12pm - 1pm Wed., May. 13 Market Day Pick up 5:30 p.m. Thu., May. 21 Vineyard Breakfast 6:30am Thu., May. 21 Council 7pm - 8pm

[7]

Fri., May. 22 Rosewood Worship 10:00 a.m. Fri., May. 22 Community Group-ITN

Cafe 9am - 10am

Sat., May. 23 Wild Ones-Conservation at Home

10:00 am -12:00 pm

Sun., May. 24 Pentecost Celebration 9:30 AM Sun., May. 24 Confirmation Sunday 9:30am Mon., May. 25 CCC Group 7pm - 8pm Mon., May. 25 Community Group-Library

Café 9am - 10am

Mon., May. 25 Cub Scouts Tue., May. 26 Bible & Brew 7pm - 8pm Tue., May. 26 Prayer Group 8:30am - 9:30 Tue., May. 26 Habitat Fundraiser @

Culver's, C'ville

Wed., May. 27 Morning Bible Study 10am - 11am Wed., May. 27 AA Meetings 12pm - 1pm Fri., May. 29 Soup Kettle 5pm - 6pm Fri., May. 29 Community Group-ITN

Cafe 9am - 10am

Sat., May. 30 Women's Gather Bible Study

Mon., Jun. 01 CCC Group 7pm - 8pm

Mon., Jun. 01 Community Group-Library Café

9am - 10am

Mon., Jun. 01 Cub Scouts Mon., Jun. 01 Social Ministry Tue., Jun. 02 Bible & Brew 7pm - 8pm Tue., Jun. 02 Prayer Group 8:30am - 9:30 Wed., Jun. 03 Morning Bible Study 10am - 11am

Wed., Jun. 03 AA Meetings 12pm - 1pm

Thu., Jun. 04 Spiritual Direction Mtg 7:00 PM

Fri., Jun. 05 Community Group-ITN 9am - 10am

[8]

Cafe

Sat., Jun. 06 Bound & Ungagged (Book Club)

8am - 9am

Sun., Jun. 07 Educational Hour 11:00 AM Sun., Jun. 07 Bridge Group - Culver’s,

Randall Rd. 4pm - 5pm

Sun., Jun. 07 Worship/Communion 9:30am - 10:30am

Mon., Jun. 08 Council Meeting on Visioning

6:00 PM

Mon., Jun. 08 CCC Group 7pm - 8pm

Mon., Jun. 08 Cub Scouts 7pm - 8pm Mon., Jun. 08 Community Group-Library

Café 9am - 10am

Tue., Jun. 09 Bible & Brew 7pm - 8pm Tue., Jun. 09 Prayer Group 8:30am - 9:30

Tue., Jun. 09 Property Mgmt. Wed., Jun. 10 Morning Bible Study 10am - 11am Wed., Jun. 10 AA Meetings 12pm - 1pm Wed., Jun. 10 Choir 7:30pm -

9:00pm Thu., Jun. 11 Bells 7pm - 8pm Thu., Jun. 11 Mutual Ministry 7pm - 8pm Fri., Jun. 12 Community Group-ITN

Cafe 9am - 10am

Sat., Jun. 13 E-Team 8:45am - 9:45 Sun., Jun. 14 Educational Hour 11:00 AM Sun., Jun. 14 Worship/Communion 9:30am -

10:30am Mon., Jun. 15 CCC Group 7pm - 8pm Mon., Jun. 15 Cub Scouts 7pm - 8pm Mon., Jun. 15 Community Group-Library

Café 9am - 10am

Tue., Jun. 16 Bible & Brew 7pm - 8pm

[9]

Tue., Jun. 16 Prayer Group 8:30am - 9:30 Wed., Jun. 17 Morning Bible Study 10am - 11am Wed., Jun. 17 AA Meetings 12pm - 1pm Wed., Jun. 17 Choir 7:30pm -

9:00pm Thu., Jun. 18 Vineyard Breakfast

(Sandwiches) 6:30am

Thu., Jun. 18 Bells 7pm - 8pm Thu., Jun. 18 Council 7pm - 8pm Fri., Jun. 19 702 Evening Group 7:02pm Fri., Jun. 19 Community Group-ITN

Cafe 9am - 10am

Sat., Jun. 20 WMA 9:30 AM Sun., Jun. 21 Educational Hour 11:00 AM Sun., Jun. 21 Bridge Group - Salernos on

the Fox, St. Charles 4pm - 5pm

Sun., Jun. 21 CCC Group 7pm - 8pm Sun., Jun. 21 Cub Scouts 7pm - 8pm Sun., Jun. 21 Worship/Communion 9:30am Sun., Jun. 21 Community Group-Library

Café 9am

Mon., Jun. 22 Vacation Bible School 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Tue., Jun. 23 Vacation Bible School 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Wed., Jun. 24 Vacation Bible School 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Thu., Jun. 25 Vacation Bible School 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Thu., Jun. 25 Wild Ones-Butterflies 7:00 pm-8:30 pm

Fri., Jun. 26 Rosewood Worship 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Fri., Jun. 26 Vacation Bible School 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sun., Jul. 05 Bridge Group - Art & Alma’s, Burlington

4pm - 5pm

[10]

Sun., Jul. 05 Council Meeting on Visioning in Library

Noon to 2:00 p.m.

Sun., Jul. 12-15

YOUTH Mission Trip

Thu., Jul. 16 Vineyard Breakfast (Sandwiches)

6:30am

Fri., Jul. 17 702 Evening Group 7:02pm Thu., Jul. 23 Wild Ones-Raising

Monarchs 7:00 pm-8:30

pm Thu., Jul. 23 Rummage Sale (3 days) TBA Fri., Jul. 31 Soup Kettle 5:30pm - 6:30 Thu., Aug. 20 Vineyard Breakfast

(Sandwiches) 6:30am

Fri., Aug. 21 702 Evening Group 7:02pm Sat., Sep. 12 Craft Show Committee Mtg

chg date 1:00 p.m.

Sun., Sep. 13 God’s work. Our hands. After Service Sun., Sep. 20 Church Picnic TBA Fri., Sep. 25 Women of Faith 2 day

event 7:00 PM

Sat., Sep. 26 LOVE ELGIN DAY 9:00am-2:00pm Sat., Sep. 26 Women of Faith 2 day

event

Sun., Oct. 04 Blessing of the Animals Day 9:30 a.m. Sat., Oct. 17 Crafters Soups & Dips 1:00 p.m. Sun., Oct. 18 Elgin CROP Hunger Walk TBA Tue., Nov. 03 Bound & Ungagged (Book

Club) 8am - 9am

Wed., Nov. 04 Craft Show Setup 6:30-9:00 p.m. Fri., Nov. 06 Craft Show Vender Setup 7:00-9:00 p.m. Sat., Nov. 07 Habitat for Humanity Craft

Show 9:00am to 3:00

pm Thu., Dec. 03 Wild Ones-Year in Review

Potluck 6:30 pm-8:30

pm Sat., Dec. 19 Crafters Cookie Exchange &

Craft for SS 1:00 p.m.

[11]

*WORSHIP NEWS*

Sunday Morning Schedule 9:30 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m. Education Hour

Scripture Lessons for May Sunday May 3 Fifth Sunday of Easter Acts 8:26-40 Psalm 22:25-31 (27) 1 John 4:7-21 John 15:1-8 Color: White Sunday May 10 Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 10:44-48 Psalm 98 (4) 1 John 5:1-6 John 15:9-17 Color: White Sunday May 17 Seventh Sunday of Easter Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 Psalm 1 (6) 1 John 5:9-13 John 17:6-19

Color: White Sunday May 24 Day of Pentecost Acts 2:1-21 or Ezekiel 37:1-14 Psalm 104:24-34, 35b (30) Romans 8:22-27 or Acts 2:1-21 John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 Color: Red Sunday May 31 The Holy Trinity First Sunday after Pentecost Isaiah 6:1-8 Psalm 29 Romans 8:12-17 John 3:1-17 Color: White

[12]

*FROM OUR LEADERSHIP*

From Our Pastor Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ!

On Sun., May 24, we gather in worship to celebrate Pentecost, the day on which the Holy Spirit descended on a motley crew of the frightened, dispirited, discouraged friends and followers of Jesus, and turned them into a driven band of bold, enthusiastic, hopeful people who went out speaking Good News of love and healing and reconciliation, first to their neighbors, and then to the whole known world.

One of my favorite Pentecost hymns is “God of Tempest, God of Whirlwind,” a stirring song full of challenge. It’s a prayer to the God of tempest, whirlwind, blazing, burning, earthquake, thunder, passion… Here’s the first verse:

God of tempest, God of whirlwind, as on Pentecost descend! Drive us out from sheltered comfort; past these walls your people send! Sweep us into costly service, there with Christ to bear the cross, there with Christ to bear the cross! See, this Pentecost thing is all about getting out of our

comfort zones, getting out from behind closed doors and going into the world, entering into service to our neighbors. The church grew explosively as a result…but it was because of individual Christians talking about Christ’s Good News of resurrection and hope, individual Christians taking in the homeless folks in the streets of their towns, individual Christians inviting widows to share meals with them, individual Christians making sure orphans had clothes and shoes, individual Christians going and visiting the sick… individual Christians to whom the Holy Spirit had given fire and energy.

Pentecost changed everything about the church. It changed their vision from an inner-focused one (“what can Jesus do for me?”) to an outer-focused one (“what has God empowered me to do for my neighbor?”). It changed the way they worshiped, so that prayer and preaching became intertwined with sitting down

[13]

around a table for a meal. New songs, new kinds of praying, new ways of organizing themselves as the Body of Christ, all of those came as they scrambled to keep up with where the Spirit was leading them.

This month, CTL is launching some initiatives to help us become more of a “Pentecost” church. First, Council, after many months of prayer and study and preparation, will be kicking off a yearlong visioning process to help us develop the kind of laser focus on mission that the early Church had. All members of CTL will be playing a role in that process as you will be invited, starting Sun., May 10, to share your thoughts and dreams and priorities through an on-line Congregational Assessment Tool that will give us a clear picture of who we are, what is important to us, and what we dream of for our congregation. It is vital that as many members as possible participate. (Don’t worry if you don’t have computer access…we’ll have paper copies, too!)

And then on Sun., May 17, in our congregational meeting, we will be considering a proposal from Council and from the All Are Welcome Task Force for becoming a Reconciling in Christ congregation, a church that makes explicit our welcome to all kinds of people, regardless of color or culture, sexual orientation or gender identity, socio-economic status, marital status, ability, or challenge. Some may ask, “Why do we need to advertise that? We already know we’re a welcoming congregation. Of course everybody is welcome.” We make it explicit because a Pentecost kind of church doesn’t sit behind closed doors waiting for people to come to us. A Pentecost kind of church goes boldly out into the world calling out to all those who feel far off to come and join us in this exciting thing that God is doing. (For more reasons to make a statement of welcome, you might find this link helpful: Our Congregation is Already Welcoming. Why Do We Need to Say So?

This is an important moment in the life of CTL, a Pentecost moment. I hope that you will be open to being “stirred and shaken” by the God of tempest, whirlwind, and fire! Peace,

Pr. Keith

[14]

From Our Deaconess Volunteer Appreciation? Or Ministry Appreciation?

I learned this month that a week in April is National Volunteer Appreciation week. Even as I begin to think (and give thanks for all of them) of all the wonderful people who volunteer their time at CTL, I decided not to highlight them during that week. For several reasons…

I do not think of you all as “volunteers,” I think of you as ministers. I think of you as having a call to a certain area of ministry, as serving God and God’s people. I think of you as co-laborers on showing God’s redeeming love to our community.

So…instead of lifting up you all for just a week I want to take the summer to give thanks and acknowledge all the wonderful gifts and ministers here at CTL.

”Every time I think of you—and I think of you often!—I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There is no end to what has happened in you—it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives..” 1 Corinthians 1:4The Message (MSG)

Some important points to remember as we remember and give thanks for each particular ministry in the upcoming months…

Each one of us has a calling into ministry. Being a part of a specific ministry is more than volunteering. Hopefully, we have not been begged or coerced into using our gifts and abilities for ministry. God either calls us or we’re not called, and that is okay. If God does call us though, we need to be obedient to that call.

We are simply “stewards” or managers of our calling. In other words, “our individual positions are not really our positions.” Here’s what I mean: God has placed you in a specific position at a specific time in your church’s history. Right now, you’re responsible to be the best manager of your specific calling until the Lord decides that calling needs to change. All of us need to lead well today and to do an awesome job of training and then handing off the baton to the next called person sometime in the future.

The mission of the church or a specific ministry must always move forward. This should be the primary purpose

[15]

behind our calling. God will see that His purposes are fulfilled whether or not we remain faithful in our calling. He may even move us on to a different mission. Always keep your focus on the overall mission of your church body as well as your specific ministry calling.

Paul wrote about gifts in 1 Corinthians, saying that all are gifted in unique ways. We all are called – some to serve in the church and some in the world and all ministries are valid and important for the whole community. I give thanks for being called to serve with you at CTL and in the Elgin area!

1 “My friends, you asked me about spiritual gifts. 2 I want you to remember that before you became followers of the Lord, you were led in all the wrong ways by idols that cannot even talk. 3 Now I want you to know that if you are led by God’s Spirit, you will say that Jesus is Lord, and you will never curse Jesus.

4 There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but they all come from the same Spirit. 5 There are different ways to serve the same Lord, 6 and we can each do different things. Yet the same God works in all of us and helps us in everything we do.

7 The Spirit has given each of us a special way of serving others. 8 Some of us can speak with wisdom, while others can speak with knowledge, but these gifts come from the same Spirit. 9 To others the Spirit has given great faith or the power to heal the sick 10 or the power to work mighty miracles. Some of us are prophets, and some of us recognize when God’s Spirit is present. Others can speak different kinds of languages, and still others can tell what these languages mean. 11 But it is the Spirit who does all this and decides which gifts to give to each of us. 1 Corinthians 12: 1-11 Contemporary English Version “

Deaconess Andrea “We are all ministers of the Gospel. Some of us just happen to be clergy.” Martin Luther

[16]

*GET INVOLVED* “Wherever you turn, you can find someone who needs you. Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it. Remember, you don't live in a world all of your own.” ― Albert Schweitzer

Youth News: The youth of CTL invite you and your friends to attend their annual

SPAGHETTI DINNER!!!!!! When: Sunday, May 3, 2015

Time: 5:00 p.m. Where: CTL

Cost: $10.00 adults; $5.00 kids 2-12; Kids under two—free Tickets go on sale the week after Easter!

Silent Auction, entertainment provided by youth (top)

Planning Our Future Together! We are inviting you to complete the Church Assessment

Tool (CAT), an on-line instrument that will help the leaders of Christ the Lord Lutheran Church gauge the strength, vitality, and trends in our congregation. The information gained from this assessment will be invaluable as together we make decisions about what God is calling CTL to do and to be in the future.

In a few days, you will receive an email with a unique link to the CAT. Beginning May 10, 2015, we are asking you to go on-line by clicking on the link provided and tell us about your experiences in, and priorities for, our church. Please do not discuss the survey or your answers with others as this may influence their answers.

If you need a paper copy, please come to the office, and we will provide one for you along with a self-addressed stamped return envelope.

All responses are strictly anonymous. We have no way of matching any assessment to a particular person, so please feel free to candidly share your perceptions, opinions, and experiences. The success of our mission as a congregation is dependent on your participation and honest answers.

[17]

If you have questions, please contact Henrietta N, Karin K, or Pastor who are available to answer questions.

Many thanks, Carol B Pam W Jacki B Dale N Karin K

Eric L Henrietta N Pr. Keith F Dss. Andrea D

Youth Mission Trip July 12-17, 2015 All youth entering 6th grade in the fall are invited! Talk to Dale or Mary N or Deaconess Andrea for more info. (top)

Spiritual Direction Spiritual Direction, Spiritual Companioning, Is it for you?

Just what is Spiritual Direction? Is there a difference between the two? Why does someone go to a Spiritual Director? When did spiritual direction develop? How does one become a Spiritual Director? These questions and more will be addresses in an upcoming presentation by Carol B and Deaconess Andrea. All are welcome to attend this question and answer session on Thu., Jun. 4 at 7:00 p.m.

Market Day Raised $5,012.34 as of 4/15/2015 Current month: May Order deadline: 5/8/2015 11:00 p.m. CST Pick up date: 5/13/2015 5:30 p.m. (top)

[18]

Bridge Walk The Bridge Walk is a family focused 5K walk along the

beautiful Fox River that brings our community together to raise money and awareness for LivingWell Cancer Resource Center. This event features an inspirational 10-step celebratory walk to honor and recognize hundreds of cancer patients and survivors within our community. Please gather your family and friends and join us for this amazing morning full of hope and solidarity. Join us for the Bridge Walk on

Saturday, May 16, 2015. Fabyan Forest Preserve (Route 31 Entrance) 8:00 a.m. (top)

Council Elections Discernment Period The names of those who have discerned that God is

leading them to be on the ballot were sent to the congregation with biographical information. Once again, the members of Christ the Lord will have an opportunity to spend time in prayer that God would guide us to elect spiritual leaders according to His plan. Council encourages you to attend the Congregational Meeting on Sun., May 17 at 11:00 a.m. (top)

What is Council Doing Now? Since the council retreat in January, our council members,

Pastor, and Deaconess have been meeting twice per month. They meet once for a regular council meeting and then a second .time for visioning. From those meetings a special Vision Team is now in place to set a visioning process into action. That team meets another two times per month. We are looking to our future: who we as a congregation are called to serve (mission), looking at new ways to be church.

One of the council’s discussions is visioning for the future of CTL that includes improved communications. Your input is important to our process and we encourage comments at each step in accomplishing our shared vision.

[19]

Habitat for Humanity Fundraiser Panera Bread Elgin at 2484 N. Randall Rd. Thu., Apr. 30 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Show your support for our Habitat for Humanity Hew Hope

Partnership! 10-20% of qualifying purchases will be donated. You must present a flyer when ordering. Pick up a flyer in the church entryway. (top)

ReNew: VBS Planning for Vacation Bible School at CTL is underway.

"ReNew" will take place at Christ the Lord Lutheran June 22-26 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. We'll have lots of activities going on during VBS and we'll end each day by sharing a light lunch together before parents pick up children to go home. The curriculum is centered on renewing and caring for the world God has given us. We'll study scripture about sowing and growing, we'll learn about good stewardship of our resources and we'll reinforce the need for recycling and reusing. We'll learn about sharing with others and making a difference in the world. We'll be encouraging the children to contribute to the ELCA wells project. We'll use the offerings we collect to dig a well in a third world country so others can have the clean water we take for granted. The cost for VBS is $20 per child, $15 for the second child and a max of $40 per family.

We need adult and youth volunteers. We need YOU! Look for a container at church for contributions to our "reduce, reuse, and recycle" efforts. See the list below for things you can begin collecting right now. Call J Tolzmann (224-535-9261 or 720-280-6315) or email jtolzmann@yahoo.com with questions or offers to help!

Things we need for VBS: Cardboard boxes - all sizes; gift wrap, paper towel and

toilet paper tubes; plastic sheeting; PVC pipes; duct tape; plastic cardboard or plastic divided containers for apples, and other fruits (like the ones at Costco); potting soil; cardboard egg cartons;

[20]

cardboard found in packages of shirts, linens, etc.(we need LOTS of cardboard pieces!) ; seed packets (the kind that are given out as samples or gifts at various events); clear two liter soda or water bottles.

There may be more items that we need, so watch for additions to our list. We will also be asking for food items so that we can provide lunch for the children and helpers each day.(top)

Travel with the Tolzmanns Fri., Oct 30 – Mon., Nov 9 the Tolzmanns will be hosting a

tour in Alpine Europe. All are welcome! See the brochure at church or call Jeanne for details. We've been doing this since 1999 and have had amazing adventures. Group travel isn't for everyone but for those who enjoy not having to worry about transportation, hotels, reserving tickets for exhibits and museums, restaurants, and dealing with their own luggage, this is a great way to see highlights around the world. The groups are usually comprised of people who've traveled with us many times, some who are friends new to group travel, some who hear about the trip from others and decide to give it a try, and occasionally a Tolzmann relative or two. Group members come from all over the US to meet us at O'Hare for departure. Questions? Give us a call. 224-535-9261

Advent Devotional Wait a minute--Advent? Does she mean Lent? No, just

thinking and working ahead and inviting you to be a part of creating a CTL Advent Devotional. We hope to have the completed booklet available to you in November, just before Advent. To make this possible, we are asking that 26 persons (there are 26 days in Advent) each write one devotion to share with each other at CTL, or to give out to others. More information about the Devotional will be coming in the months ahead or, if you have questions now, please ask Carol B or any E-Team member.

[21]

Quilts of Valor News Please give your name or name of family member(s) to

Patty H if you or they are a veteran! Special ceremony in late spring!

Shop at Smile.Amazon.com CTL earns 0.5% of your purchase! On your first visit to

AmazonSmile, (http://smile.amazon.com), you need to select a charitable organization to receive donations from eligible purchases before you begin shopping. They will remember your selection, and then every eligible purchase you make on Amazon will result in an automatic donation! A simple way to support CTL!

It’s Coming…God’s Work “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday is an opportunity to

celebrate who we are as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America — one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. The date for the 2015 dedicated day of service is Sun., Sept. 13. Mark your calendar today! In speaking about his congregation’s 2014 experience, a 10-year-old member from St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Whittier, Calif., puts it best: “It feels good to give.” According to Terri Roberston, youth and family minister at St. Andrew, “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday offers his congregation a unique way to “see the face of God.” We look forward to doing this work together Sun., Sept. 13. Visit www.ELCA.org/dayofservice for more information. (top)

Scrip Fundraising Simply return an order form with your check to the church

on Sunday. You will receive a new order form each week. You may pick up your order the following Sunday at the church.

We encourage you to take advantage of the wonderful benefits offered by this on-going fundraiser. If you have questions, please talk to Mary N 847-828-0027 or Dorothy G 847-888-4484.

[22]

Services at Rosewood We are booked with Rosewood worship services up

through June. Here are the dates for the calendar. All are Fridays. May

22 and June 26 Pastor very much appreciates those of us who are able to

come & help with leading the services. It means a lot to the residents. Please let Pastor know which Fridays you might want to help, so we can work out a schedule.

All services will be at 10 a.m., with leaders gathering about 9:40 to prepare. (top)

Kids Hope USA How did this year fly by so quickly? It seems like the

mentors were just meeting new children or reconnecting with children from last year. Now it's nearly the end of the school year. The children are already talking about the party that will be held

shortly before school lets out for summer. The party will provide an opportunity for mentors, children and their families, school staff and prayer partners to have fun and celebrate a great year. CTL

Mentors and Prayer Partners have had a huge impact on at risk children at Hillcrest. We started the school year with nine mentors and mentees. Over the course of the year, a tenth mentor received an assignment and two new mentors were trained and have assignments. CTL has been a positive presence at Hillcrest for two and a half years. CTL can be proud to be part of Kids Hope USA!

If you'd like to know more about this amazing ministry opportunity, talk to Jeanne T, Carri N or any of our mentors and prayer partners.

Mentors: Pr Keith F, Dss Andrea D, Patty H, Henrietta N, Karin K, Ann K, Carri N, Dale N, Tom J, Arlyn T, Diane B, Jeanne T

Prayer Partners: Julie G, Grace D, Barb L, Carol B, Mary T, Barb B, Mary N, Pam W, Dorothy G, Luann L

[23]

Bridge Group Dinner Schedule The Bridge Group is for people who would like a chance to

meet with other single adults at various area restaurants. The Sunday afternoon dinner is a time for conversation, laughter, and support. All singles are invited to join us on the first and third Sundays at 4:00 p.m. Contact person Grace D. (top)

May 3 Red Ox, Hwy 72 in Hampshire May 17 Jameson's, Del Webb Huntley June 7 Culver’s, Randall Rd. June 21 Salernos on the Fox, St. Charles July 5 Art & Alma’s, Burlington

Bound and Ungagged (A book club) Bound and Ungagged is reading "The Paris Wife" by Paula

McLain. This book is a fictional account of the marriage between Ernest Hemmingway and Hadley Richardson. We will meet on May 2 at 8:00 am. We meet at the Colonial Cafe on McLean Blvd. If you have any questions or would like to suggest a book that you think the book club would enjoy reading, please contact Carol H. If you would like a list of the current books the club is reading also contact Carol H.(top)

Prayerful Humor Lunch on the Bank

A pastor and two of his deacons are out on the river fishing in their rowboat. Twelve o'clock rolls around, and one of the deacons notices a nice spot on the bank to have lunch. He turns to the others and says, "That looks like a nice spot for lunch. What do you say we have lunch over there?"

The other deacon agrees, and so does the pastor. The deacon stands up in the boat, steps out onto the river and walks over to the bank. The pastor looks on with amazement, and thinks to himself, if his deacon is holy enough to walk on water, surely he can.

The other deacon stands up, picks up the picnic basket, steps out of the boat, and walks over to the bank and sits with the first deacon. Again, to his amazement, the pastor thinks again, if his second deacon is holy enough to walk on water, surely he can.

[24]

The pastor stands up, steps out of the boat, and sinks into the water. The first deacon turns to the second and says, "Think we should have told him where the rocks are?"

Habitat for Humanity House

Habitat for Humanity Fundraiser

To help raise money for our Habitat Partnership and enjoy good food at the same time!

Culver’s of Carpentersville or Huntley

Tuesday, May 26, 2015 Carpentersville – 5:00- 8:00 PM.

Huntley – 4:00-8:00 PM.

Bring your family and friends

No coupon necessary. A percentage of the profits will go to Habitat for Humanity-New Hope Partnership. All orders for dine-in, carryout or drive-thru will qualify for

this promotion.

[25]

Hooks and Needles (Prayer Shawl and Baptismal Blanket Ministry)

As you select yarn for a new prayer shawl, consider that we are in need of colors that are bright, lively, and cheerful —colors that will help dispel the gloom! We are getting very low on shawls, so please keep crocheting and knitting.

For crafters interested in making a prayer shawl, there are now "unkits" available next to the Dress-A-Girl kits in the CTL entry area. These kits include instructions, a card, and everything else you will need (except for the knitting needles/crochet hook) to complete a prayer shawl. Thanks to some wonderful angels, we are able to provide kits with yarn.

*LEARNING*

Adult Study Groups B. & B.: Bible and Brew

Bible and Brew meets at 7:00 p.m. at the Village. We gather for an hour of fellowship and fun as we discuss our faith and how it affects our daily. The topics are wide-ranging and interesting! So, come grab a beverage or

order a meal (Tuesdays have half-price burgers!) and grow in faith with one another. (top)

Morning Bible Study Join us for a lectionary study each Wednesday morning

from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at CTL. Pastor Keith guides us through the scriptures for the upcoming Sunday. It is an opportunity for learning and becoming prepared to hear, in a new way, the readings at worship. Questions? Please ask Pastor Keith, Henrietta N, or Carol B. (top)

Adult Forum Please join us for Adult Forum at 11am on May 10. We

will discuss the “Wired Word,” which presents a topic in the news that week, as well as Scripture verses and discussion questions.

[26]

We will begin a new series on May 31 called “Animate.” Our first topic will be “Prayer: Oriented toward God.” Bryan McLaren’s take on prayer is less about what prayer does or why we pray. Instead, he focuses on giving us permission to pray in ways that are meaningful, helpful, and life giving. Our “Animate” topics in June will include Food, Community, Worship, and Sacraments.

Please join us in the church library after worship for a lively discussion about contemporary issues and what we Christians believe. Questions? Call Jan G at 847-888-9501.

Women’s Gather Bible Study Join us for a Gathering for Women at church on May 30,

2015 from 9-10:30am. We will use the May issue of “Gather” magazine (p.34) entitled “The Church Transforming and Reforming.” We welcome new members! Let me know if you need a copy of the study. Call Jan G, 847-888-9501. (top)

[27]

*PLEASE REMEMBER* Please pray for those who are part of the life of CTL who struggle with illness and other concerns, especially Toni B, Bob B, Jessica B, Patsy B, Sue E, Jan & Howard E, Bill F, Patty H, Mary Ellen H, Nancy K, Larry & Joyce M, Dick & Dena M, Dolly S, Maureen S, Jeremy T, Tom & Rita Y. Please pray for those in care facilities or at home, especially: At Heritage: Audrey R; At Home: Ursula H Please pray for those in military service, especially: James G, Corbin J, Brandt J, Matt K, Manessa, John Y. Please pray for our family and friends, especially: Mary B Mother of Sharon L Dena D Daughter-in-law of Grace D Paul D Father of David D Dorothy E Mother of Carol H David G Friend of the T’s Grace, Jerry & Liz C Sister & family of Mary T Irene Friend of Jacki B CTL Kid’s Hope children and mentors

CTL Members

Bill K Brother of Sue K Edna M Mother of Susan T Nana M Daughter-in-law of Dick & Dena M Pr. Fred O Brother of Grace D Joan & Vern R Mother and father of Linda B Salma Granddaughter of Jacki B Virginia S Friend of Diane & Bob B Angie V Friend of Diane B Paul W Brother of Marcy W Please pray for those who mourn, especially family and friends of: Cheryl E, cousin of Diane B

[28]

*SPECIAL DATES TO REMEMBER* If you have a May event and it does not appear on the lists, please let us know so we can update our records. bridge@ctlelgin.org May Birthdays 1 - Warren B 1 - Jessica Z 3 - Heather B (B) 4 - Jill B 7 - Chrissy A 7 - Tom McG 7 - Kyle S 8 - Kristen A 8 - Larry B 8 - Jeanne T 9 - Tim E 9 - Marcy W 14 - Robert F 15 - Norb R 17 - Luann L

18 - Michael C 18 - Howard E 21 - Jessica B 21 - Andrea D 21 - John M 21 - Augie N 21 - Susan T 22 - Catherine L 22 - Eric L 22 - Shelley M 23 - Jeff M 23 - Holly V 24 - Justin R 25 - Bob O 28 - Dave S

May Baptismal Anniversaries 1 - Catherine F 1 - Holly G 1 - Beth L 1 - Micalena M 1 - Erich S 7 - Sarah C 7 - Wesley P 14 - Colin E 14 - Benjamin W 17 - Rick E

17 - Taylor L 20 - Andy H 22 - Solveig N 23 - Arlyn T 25 - Rory P 25 - Dana P 26 - Chrissy A 29 - Amber H 31 - Lizzie D 31 - Karin K

May Wedding Anniversaries 3 - Brian & Julia H 10 - Russ & Carol H 17 - Carl & Kelly G 30 - Jeneane & Dale Z

[29]

Holy Holes: Barb L, Nelson family, Arlyn& Jeanne T

*THANK-YOUS* Most human beings have an almost infinite capacity for taking things for granted. ~Aldous Huxley Barb B. .................................................................. bulletin assembly Andrew B .......................................................................... computers Carol E ....................................................................... electronic sign Karin K .................................................................. Bridge newsletter Mike M ............................................................................... Projection Patty H, Kathy O, Arlyn T, Karin K, Kathy S, Debbie McG--Communion Bread Bakers Patty H ........................................ donation of nursery changing table Katrina D and Barb B .............................................. nursery cleaning

Thank You!

I thank Pr. Keith and Dss. Andrea for giving me the opportunity to lead Holy Hilarity worship on April 12 and Jason for his always-inspired musicianship. I thank Linda for the excellent bulletin she did and all those who served that morning. A special shout out to Sarah and Angie T for their wonderfully joyful expression through dance! 16 family and friends attended. Thanks also for your response and NOT giving me the "hook" during my message! Gratefully, Arlyn

Thanks to all who helped with this last hot Vineyard breakfast: Pastor Keith, Debbie McG, Susan T, Corrine A, Jennifer S, John M, and Barb B. We gave 50 people a great start on their day! Next month, May 21, we will be taking items for a cold breakfast: sandwiches, fruit, chips, granola bars, and water. This will be breakfast and a bag lunch for people who are working. If you would like to help with this meal, please let Barb Bosch know. Our biggest need will be donations of food.

Flowers: Katrina D

[30]

*CHRIST THE LORD LUTHERAN CHURCH* STAFF Rev. Keith F Pastor Deaconess Andrea D Director of Ministries Jason P Director of Music Linda G Office Assistant CONGREGATION COUNCIL Carol B (2016) President Karin K (2015) Corresponding Secretary Eric L (2016) Jacki B (2017) Secretary Henrietta N (2017) Dale N (2015) Archivist Pam W (2015) Vice President Anneliese J Youth CTL FINANCIAL TEAM Beth U Treasurer Carol C Financial Secretary

Christ the Lord Lutheran Church 12N462 Tina Trail + Elgin, IL 60124-4876 + Phone: 847-741-8141

Office Hours

Mondays: Office closed Tuesday through Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Friday: 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. www.ctlelgin.org

Rev. Keith F – Pastor ctlpastor@ctlelgin.org Dss. Andrea D – Director of Ministries ctldirmin@ctlelgin.org Jason P – Director of Music ctlmusic@ctlelgin.org Jim H – Director of Handbell Choir jim.harrer@ctlelgin.org Linda G – Office Administration ctloffice@ctlelgin.org Sandy M –Nursery