Volume XX Issue 3 Monthly Buckley, Illinois March 2014

THE 40 DAYS OF LENT

Lent is a season of forty days from Ash

Wednesday (March 5 this year) to Holy Saturday,

the day before Easter. Because Sundays celebrate

Jesus’ resurrection they are not included in the forty

days. Why forty? In the Bible, the number forty

appears in the story of the flood, in Israel’s

wandering in the wilderness, and in the life of

Jesus. The number forty is often a symbol of ruin

and renewal, testing and teaching.

Lent is a time for us to remember the ruin that

sin brings to our lives, to repent and receive God’s

forgiveness. After His Baptism, Jesus “was in the

wilderness forty days, being tempted by

Satan” (Mark 1:13). During these forty days, we

remember how our Lord stood in the place of

sinners, in our place, and resisted every temptation

of the devil. On the cross, the innocent Son of God

suffered the punishment we deserved for our sins.

The key word for the Season of Lent is

“repent.” The word “repent” literally means to be

sorry again. It involves regret or dissatisfaction

over what one has done or failed to do so as to

change one’s mind or decide to change one’s ways.

It means to feel so contrite over one’s sins as to

change one’s attitudes and ways. Today, during

Lent’s 40 days, all Christians are invited to adopt a

penitential attitude, and to conduct a spiritual

housecleaning - giving up self-serving ways and

practicing new behavior appropriate to God’s

baptized people.

There are certain Lenten signs that we notice

along the way. We notice that the

“alleluias” (which means praise to the Lord)

disappear from our worship services following Ash

Wednesday. The alleluia is an acclamation of

praise and does not fit the more reserved Lenten

tone of repentance. Many Christians receive a

mark of ashes on their foreheads on Ash

Wednesday. In the Old Testament, ashes were used

as an outward sign of repentance. The ashes

remind us of dust and mortality. You will also

notice the colors purple and black on the paraments

in the church during this time. Purple is the color

of royalty as well as repentance and black is the

color of mourning. Some Christians also practice

Lenten self-denial and give something up during

Lent. This serves as a reminder of the sacrifice of

Christ for our sins.

One thing that is always a part of Lenten

observances is a deepening of faith. This is

accomplished through an increased study of God’s

Word and is where the Lenten practice of midweek

services comes from. This year we will have the

opportunity to gather on Wednesday evenings for

Lenten midweek services that we might be

deepened in our faith in Jesus. Our theme during

this year’s Lenten services will be “The Crucified

King” and will focus on the following themes each

week.

Ash Wednesday The King’s Wisdom

Lent 1 The King on the Cross

Lent 2 The King Denied

Lent 3 The King Condemned

Lent 4 The King Betrayed

Lent 5 The King Mocked

In His service,

Pastor Olson

March 5 Worship with communion

4:30 & 7:00

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Voter’s Meeting January 26, 2014

Chairman Gary Teske called the annual meeting of St. John’s voters to order on January 26, 2014. Pastor Olson opened the meeting with prayer. The minutes of the previous meeting on October 17 were read. There was a correction to the October minutes stating that the meeting was not adjourned, so a motion was made and seconded to close the meeting of October 17. Motion carried. Then a motion was made and seconded to accept the minutes and was approved. Motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the following membership changes: Transfer in: Elliott Hasselbring from Immanuel Lutheran, Idaville, Illinois

Lee Niemann from Immanuel Lutheran, Loda, Illinois Amber Wisely from Zion Lutheran, Chebanse, Illinois

Accept through baptism & adult instruction: John & Denise Mason

Matthew & Ashley McNeely, children Riley & Nautica McNeely and Jaxson Glad Susan Vance

Accept new voting members: Susan Luhrsen, Rebekah Meyer, Robert Fruhling, Justin Poplett, Cory Uden, Chuck Quinn, Corey Quinn, Amber Wisely, Amber Conn, Ryan Vance, David Dettmering, Brad Forster, Carol Niemann. After some discussion a motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept them as voting members. Jeff Teske, Interim Mission Treasurer, presented the mission report stating $6,715 was received for General Missions and that CLHS mission received $6,561. Motion was made and seconded and the mission report was approved. Wayne Wagner gave the financial report for the congregation. He went over what is in the savings accounts through December 31, 2013. The school renovation fund has paid to date $840,000 with $175,067.53 still owed to the Buckley State Bank as of December 31, 2013. Motion was made, seconded, and approved as stated. Ballot for officers for 2014 was presented. Nominations from the floor included Ardell Goetting as Chairman, John Mingee and Eugene Forster as elders, remove Eugene Forster as CLHS representative and add Linda Janssen. Motion was made and seconded to approve the ballot. The new officers for 2014 stand as follow: Chairman Gary Teske; Secretary Debra Ecker; Mission Treasurer Jeff Teske; Elders Craig Luhrsen, Robert Fruhling, Eugene Forster, and John Mingee; Board of Education, Justin Poplett, Cory Uden; Trustees, Phil Scheiwe, Scott Weber; Cemetery Committee Beryl Luecke; Evangelism Committee Jane Wagner; Stewardship Committee Rena Wagner; CLHS Committee Linda Janssen; Lutheran Hour Ministry Committee Alice Genzel, Barbara Abbe, Larry Abbe, Stacie Bruens, and Betty Hull. Appointed to Financial Review Committee were Gail Tobeck and Cindy Vance. Motion was made, seconded, and approved. Upon the recommendation of the Joint Council: Set tuition rates for 2013-14 school year - raised pre-kindergarten tuition by $5.00 a month with no increase in K-8 tuition for members and non-members. Motion was made, seconded, and approved to except the above recommendations. Jason Wesslund discussed the two (2) principal candidates to consider to call - Joel Witt and Danny Green. Motion was made and seconded and approved to accept the candidates. The voters voted to extend a call to Mr. Joel Witt. Larry Abbe gave the evangelism report: Mission Festival will be held February 2; Lent services will be starting March 5 and soup and sandwiches will be served between services. Pastor Olson gave the principal report: enrollment up to 112 and National Lutheran Schools Week starts February 2. Eugene Forster gave Christ Lutheran report of the different service projects done by the staff and the students; Caleb dinner March 2 at 11:00 a.m.; dart ball tournament March 13 & 16; drama club March 30; trivia night April 26; and blood drive March 6. Other business brought to the congregation attention was to vote on the name change from Circuit Counselor to Circuit Visitor. Motion made, seconded, and approved. Being no further business, motion was made to adjourn the meeting, seconded, and approved. Meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted, Debra Ecker, Secretary

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Buckley, Illinois Church Office - 394-2444 School Office - 394-2422

OFFICERS 2014

Pastor: Rev. Daniel Olson 394-2495/781-3278 Board of Parish Education (4-year terms)

Principal: Mike DeBella 11-14 379-9740

Teachers: Kara Teske (7th/8th) 394-2630 11-14

Laura Birge (5th/6th) 781-0384 David Bruens 12-15 394-2235

Mary Cowan (3rd/4th) 298-2632 Jay Goldenstein 12-15 815-269-2947

Ruth Biggs (2nd) 394-2018 Corey Grohler 13-16, President 394-2307

Rebekah Meyer (1st) 379-0344 Eric Dippel 13-16, Vice-Pres 841-2159

Theresa Sturm (K) 386-2909 Justin Poplett 14-17, Secretary 519-4835

Emily Kief (Pre-K) 249-3735 Cory Uden 14-17, Sunday School 379-1254

Ashley Franklin (5-8 Math) 219-510-2288

Cemetery Committee (3-year terms)

Church Admin. Asst.: Melanie Niemann 379-3460 Beryl Luecke 14-16 394-2528

School Admin. Asst.: Amber Conn 815-268-4048 Ken Dettmering 12-14 394-2542

Church/School Custodian: Sande Hector 379-0654 Jerry Harweger 13-15 394-2539

School Cook: Tina Wagner 386-2885

Music Director: Rebekah Meyer 379-0344 Evangelism Directors (2-year terms)

Organists: Eileen Gehle Luttrell 394-2269 Eugene Forster (elder) 394-2233

Ruth Biggs 394-2018 Craig Luhrsen (elder) 394-2523

Charlie Russell 394-2495 Jane Wagner 14-15 394-2514

Charlene Kaufmann 13-14 394-2448

Congregation Chairman: Gary Teske 394-2400

Congregation Secretary: Debra Ecker 394-2089 Stewardship Directors (2-year terms)

Congregation Treasurer: Wayne Wagner 13-15 394-2514 John Mingee (elder) 394-2500

Mission Treasurer: Jeff Teske 14-16 898-7970 Ross Cluver (elder) 394-2566

Financial Secretary: Marilyn Weber 394-2289 Rena Wagner 14-15 394-2346

Tim Luhrsen 13-14 249-5772

Board of Elders (3-year terms)

#1 Craig Luhrsen 14-16, Confirmation/Evangelism 394-2523 Ladies Aid (2014)

#2 Jerry Niemann 12-14, Chairman/Adult Education 379-3460 Ruth Jones, President 379-2658

#3 Anthony Conn 13-15, Missions 815-268-4048 Norma Niemann, Vice-President 394-2534

#4 Ross Cluver 13-15, Stewardship/Congregational Life 394-2566 Ruth Biggs, Secretary 394-2018

#5 Eugene Forster 14-16, Evangelism 394-2233 Rena Wagner, Treasurer 394-2346

#6 Robert Fruhling 14-16, LYF 815-644-8605

#7 Larry Derby 12-14, Secretary 394-2166 Parent-Teacher League (13-14)

#8 Jerry Knuth 12-14, Membership 394-2291 Karen Linder, President 394-2418

#9 John Mingee 14-16, Stewardship 394-2500 Brooke Mullins, Vice-President 778-5299

#10 Ardell Goetting 13-15, Membership 394-2242 Sande Hector, Secretary 379-0654

Nikki Grohler, Co-Treasurer 394-2307

Finance Committee (2-year terms)

14-15 13-14 CLHS Committee (2-year terms)

#1 Jody Sanders 394-2318 Pam Baillie 387-2463 Linda Janssen 14-15 394-2805

#2 Wanda Ilse 386-2729 Jane Wagner 394-2514 Julie Schuldt 13-14 394-2016

#3 Carol Niemann 815-686-9250 Dena Reynolds 386-2330

#4 Jerry Tobeck 394-2065 Nikki Grohler 394-2307 Lutheran Hour Ministry Committee (1-year term)

#5 Linda Marquis 394-2344 Stacy Harweger 394-2631 Alice Genzel 394-2544

#6 Glenda Weisenbarn 394-2036 Dustin Luhrsen 379-7108 Betty Hull 394-2074

#7 Betty Hull 394-2074 Becky Weisenbarn 394-2165 Barb Abbe 379-2567

#8 Gail Tobeck 840-2065 Nancy Elliott 386-2513 Larry Abbe 379-2567

#9 Tina Wagner 386-2885 Jeanie Teske 394-2400 Stacie Bruens 394-2235

#10 Amy Zenner 386-2527 Rhonda Wooten 379-4070

Prairieview Committee (2-year terms)

Board of Trustees (3-year terms) Wilma Zeidler 13-14 394-2498

Phil Scheiwe 14-16 815-457-2917 Rena Wagner 13-14 394-2346

Scott Weber 14-16 249-2669 Mary Garrelts 14-15 386-2203

Kevin Dettmering 12-14 202-3795 Sherrilyn Hoopingarner 14-15 781-1034

Terry Niemann 12-14 815-383-9250

Ron Rieches 13-15 394-2433

Brad Weisenbarn 13-15 379-2240

ST. JOHN’S HERITAGE

Our Church (Second in the series)

Our first church, dedicated October 31, 1870, was used for fifteen years when the seating capacity became

insufficient for the growing congregation. Our second house of worship was dedicated in December 1885 and

in it members heard the Word of God for a period of thirty-two years. The needs of the 850 souls comprising

our congregation then demanded a larger, a better heated, a better ventilated house of God. A building

committee was appointed including Wm. Wagner, G. Koschnick, Ed Steinmann, Wm. Weber, H. Niemann, A.

Flesner, H. C. Krumwiede, A. Kaufmann, H. Knueppel, F. A. Hilgendorf, J. Ehmen, C. Guske, Rev. Braeunig

and J. M. Gross. The third building was dedicated on September 30, 1917.

Our forefathers recognized the symbolism and significance of the church building, especially the altar.

Members were excited about the plans for the new building and many, many evening meetings were held.

They resolved, “Nothing is too good or too elaborate” and encouraged the best of everything, even though it

meant sacrificial giving.

The Altar

The altar symbolizes the presence of God in His church. It is not a piece of church furniture, like the

pulpit or lectern; it is a monument to God. The building committee was especially concerned that the altar

would become a majestic focus for our worship. WHAT A RICH HERITAGE THEY PASSED ON TO US!

The 75th anniversary was celebrated in 1945. The congregation purchased a new pipe organ as a

memorial. With the material salvaged from the old organ, Pastor Eissfeldt and Art Niemann constructed the

freestanding pillars, which are located at each side of the altar table. Looking at the pillars, which hold the

candelabra, you cannot distinguish them from the original altar.

Altar Archway

Our older members remember the German words printed on the altar archway, “Selig sind die das Wort

Gottes Horen and Bewahren.” (Luke 11:28) This was replaced with the English translation, “Blessed are they

who hear the Word of God and keep it.” Some remember trumpeting angels painted on the archway, while

others remember them on the walls behind the altar.

Paintings

The paintings on the west wall also reflect changes over time. Originally, the German words “Herr, hilf

mir” (Lord, save me! – Matthew 14:30) were printed below the south picture and “Dein Wille

Geschehe” (Thy will be done – Luke 22:42) below the north picture. The 50th anniversary yearbook shows

the altar, archway, and paintings.

Board of Parish Education

A meeting of the Board of Parish Education was

held on February 5, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.

Opening Devotion - Jason Wesslund

Opening Prayer - Pastor Olson

Attendees: Jason Wesslund, Jay Goldstein, Dave

Bruens, Eric Dippel, Mike DeBella, Corey Grohler,

Cory Uden, Justin Poplett, Gary Teske, and Pastor

Olson

Guests: None

January Meeting Minutes: Approved

Election of Officers:

President - Corey Grohler

Vice President - Eric Dippel

Secretary - Justin Poplett

Committee Appointments:

Budget - Eric Dippel and Dave Bruens

Tuition Assistance - Jay Goldenstein and

Tim Luhrsen

Picnic - Eric Dippel and Cory Uden

PTL - Corey Grohler and Dave Bruens

Sunday School - Dave Bruens and Cory Uden

Financial Reports: Financial reports were presented

and after executive session were approved.

Written Reports: Approved

Old Business:

Policy Manual Review (Part I: Board of Parish

Education Section: Board of Parish Education)

no changes

New Business:

Principal and 2nd grade teacher candidates

St. John’s School News 217-394-2422 www.stjohnsbuckley.com

St. John’s Lutheran School exists to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to assist families

in following our Lord’s commands by providing sound Christian training for children.

Philosophy We, at St. John’s Lutheran School in Buckley, Illinois, believe that each child is a child of GOD; created by the Father, redeemed by the Son, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, empowered by the congregation and supported by the children’s parents, we teach using developmentally appropriate methods and practices. Our goal is to fulfill each child’s potential by teaching excellence in character, education, and leadership throughout the integrated curriculum using sound Lutheran doctrinal principles based upon scriptural truth.

Discussed looking into a new school bus for

St. John’s Athletics

Entered executive session at 8:00 p.m. and

adjourned at 8:15 p.m.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m. and was closed

with the Lord’s Prayer.

Next Meeting - March 5, 2014

March Devotions - Ash Wednesday Service

February Balcony Offerings - Jay Goldenstein and

Eric Dippel

March Balcony Offerings - Cory Uden and Corey

Grohler

National Lutheran Schools Week

The students of St. John’s celebrated National

Lutheran Schools Week January 26 – 31. The

theme for the week was Raising Up Faithful

Disciples; Witness Always. Throughout the week,

the students participated in special activities

including dress-up days, roller-skating, and other

group activities; we even celebrated the 100th day

of school. Another part of celebrating NLSW is to

collect donations for a mission project. This year

the students again participated in “Penny Wars” to

collect money for Lutheran World Relief. The goal

was to collect at least $500, and even though the

week was cut short due to a snow day, a total of

$509.31 was collected. The final activity for the

week was a school dance and this year’s theme was

“Candy Land.” The students and staff had a

fantastic week as we celebrated what a privilege it

is to be part of our Lutheran school.

The PTL Annual Chicken Dinner was held on

Sunday, February 16, and was a great success.

Over 450 people were served! It was amazing to

see all the people who came out to support our

school. It’s very touching to know that a small

school like St. John’s can do big things and that is

because of the support we receive.

The PTL of St. John’s would like to say a very

big THANK YOU to all the people who helped in

any way to make the dinner a success - whether you

donated an item to the silent auction, donated food,

gave of your time, purchased a meal, or purchased

an item, it was very much appreciated. Together we

were able to have a very successful fundraiser for

St. John’s.

Silent Auction

This year’s silent auction was our most

successful silent auction ever! Thank you to

everyone who came out and helped us raise well

over $10,000 on just the auction alone! Thank you

to everyone who donated items & money and to

everyone who purchased items. Your generosity

has not gone unnoticed! It’s easy to put the auction

to the back of your mind until it rolls around again

next February. Remember, you don’t need enough

items for a complete basket! Perhaps you will find

some Illini, Cubs, Bears, or Cardinals gear on

sale. Will you be finding some amazing deals in

November on Black Friday or Cyber

Monday? Hold on to it or send it to school to be

kept until next February rolls around. The

possibilities are endless. Thank you again to

everyone who helped out in any way and supported

our school! We look forward to next year!

Rebekah Meyer & Nichole Martinez

2014 Silent Auction Co-Chairs

Classroom News Pre-K We had such a terrific month of February as we celebrated Valentine’s Day and lead our first chapel with the 7th and 8th graders. The Preschoolers enjoyed leading chapel with their chapel buddies. Our chapel message was focused on love and loving what God has given to

each of us. We all enjoyed participating in NLSW and the different activities provided each day. I also want to thank the room mothers and parents for the gift cards that week; they were greatly appreciated. Also thank you to the parents who contributed to our Crayola and Lego baskets for the chicken dinner. We continue with our Bible stories each week and the kids are eager to hear the different lessons we are taught with each story. We will be celebrating our favorite author Dr. Seuss’s birthday on March 2. We are anxiously awaiting nice weather so we are able to play outside for recess! Kindergarten

It seems as if the month of February has

just flown by at school. That’s probably due to

the fact that the weather has caused the

majority of the school weeks to be four days

long, rather than 5 days long. Nevertheless,

we have accomplished a lot. During Jesus time

lately, we have been learning about the great

power of Jesus that can do anything, like

changing water into wine, and that gives us

many blessings, especially the forgiveness

Jesus won for us on the cross. As we heard

the Bible story of the Widow and the Mites,

we also talked about our trusting, thankful

response to the undeserved love that God has

shown to us.

Talking about our offerings of money

coincided with our introduction of money and

time in our math lessons. Just this past week

the kindergarten store was opened. The

kindergartners are earning daily “paychecks”

consisting of pennies initially, and then adding

dimes and nickels as the children learn more

about money. The money earned can then be

spent or saved to purchase items donated by

the kindergartners' parents.

In social studies we have been talking a lot

about famous presidents like George

Washington and Abraham Lincoln since both of

their birthdays and Presidents’ Day are in

February. (What’s even better is that George

Washington and Abraham Lincoln are both

honored by being on America’s money!) We also

got the chance to learn more about our postal

system by visiting Buckley’s post office in order

to mail our Grandparents’ Day invitations. The

next subject we have started learning more

about is transportation.

You will have to wait until the science fair in

order to see what we are doing in science. We

hope that you will be there.

Grade 1

In religion this month we learned about many

of Jesus' miracles including calming the storm,

the miraculous catch of fish, feeding 5,000 and

healing 10 lepers. It's amazing to hear about

how Jesus showed His almighty power through

all these miracles. We are comforted and

encouraged to know that God is with us as well

and helps us through all our hard times. In

language arts we've been working with long

vowels, different genres, cause & effect, and

adjectives. In math we worked a lot with

addition & subtraction, specifically fact

families. In science we began our unit on the

human body learning about our senses and how

our bodies grow & change over time. We learned

about many of our nation's presidents,

specifically George Washington and Abraham

Lincoln. We also learned about how to be good

citizens. We look forward to preparing our solar

system science fair project throughout the

month of March. Have a great month!

Grades 3 & 4

The third and fourth graders have been

studying animals and their habitats in science

class. Much of this month has been spent

working on our science fair projects. In English,

the students are learning how to write research

papers on an animal of their choice. Then in art

class the students created the basic structures

of their animals out of tubes, boxes, bottles,

cardboard, and newspapers. The next few

weeks will be spent covering their animals with

paper maché and then painting them. The class

is looking forward to displaying their final

projects at the Science Fair in March.

Grades 5 & 6

Science Fair research papers has been the

focus for our class this month. The 5th and 6th

graders have officially completed, typed, and

handed in their entire research paper and

bibliography. Next up on our schedule is

finishing our experiments in order for each

student to finish their science fair project

notebook and display board.

In English we have focused on pronouns in

the current unit. In social studies we have been

learning about the colonial colonies and

slavery. In religion we have focused a lot of

the life of Elisha and Elijah.

We will continue down the science fair road

throughout March, and excited for the end

result on March 27. We hope everyone can

come and see how hard everyone has worked on

the projects throughout the quarter.

Grades 7 & 8

February has been a busy month for the 7 &

8 graders. Everyone has been hard at work

completing his or her experiment and research

paper for the Science Fair that will be held in

March. In social studies, we continue to learn

more about our nation’s history and what it was

like to be an immigrant. The focus of our

English lessons has been using pronouns

correctly; in literature we came to the end of a

unit about the importance of the setting of a

story. We had the opportunity to learn about

filmmaking and how the sound and camera angles

used in a film enhance the setting, thereby

improving the overall experience of watching a

film. The month came to a close with a special

opportunity for our class; it was our turn to lead

chapel and this year we did it with the help of

our pre-school chapel buddies. Together we

shared a message about God’s love.

Marie Kimmel Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of

Marie P. Kimmel, a long-time member of St. Paul’s

Lutheran Church, Woodworth. Marie valued education

and regretted not having had the opportunity to earn her

high school diploma, since the small community where

she grew up only had a two-year program. In her honor,

the Kimmel Family has created this scholarship for high

school seniors in Iroquois County who desire to attend

college, but need financial assistance. The scholarship

will be awarded based upon the student’s achievement

in academics; leadership in church and school activities;

service to the community, including work experience;

and financial need.

Applicants must graduate from a high school

located in Iroquois County, Illinois, must be an active

member of a Lutheran church in the county, and must

attend an accredited college or university seeking a

degree on a full-time basis.

Requirements:

1. A completed application form.

2. An official copy of your most recent academic

transcript(s).

3. A copy of your ACT or SAT scores.

4. Three letters of recommendation submitted to the

Marie Kimmel Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Please submit three letters of recommendation from

individuals (not relatives) who know you well and can

speak to your accomplishments. The letters should

discuss your leadership, work ethic, extra-curricular

activities, etc. The letters should be sealed in an

envelope by the author, be included with your

application and include the author’s name, address and

phone number. The committee recommends securing a

letter from a teacher, a member of your church, and an

individual from the community.

An essay (see questions on application),

approximately 2-3 pages, double-spaced.

A copy of your completed FAFSA and your Student

Aid Report.

Deadline: April 1, 2014 (All materials must be

postmarked by this deadline and received by April 10.)

Return application (obtain from the church office) with

all required documents to:

Marie Kimmel Memorial Scholarship

c/o Carol Schroeder

106 Oakwood Drive

Richmond, KY 40475

Award: $500, payable after copy of transcript of first

semester grades is submitted.

CHRIST Lutheran High School www.christlutheranbuckley.com

Upcoming Events March 2 CALEB Brunch - 11:30 March 3 Board of Directors - 7:00 March 6 Blood Drive - 1:00-6:00 March 13 Dartball Tournament - 6:00 March 16 Dartball Tournament & Banquet - 1:00

March 2 - CALEB Luncheon Our now famous CALEB luncheon is scheduled for March 2. This is a sit-down meal with several events within it. The CALEB of the year is announced. The student choir, the hand bells and the drama group perform. It is a wonderful time. This is an opportunity for our supporters to come and demonstrate their commitment to Christian Education at Christ Lutheran.

Christian Adults Leading Enabling Benefiting

Register Early - One tuition per family registration is open at CLHS for the 2014-2015 School year. Get your registration in early to take advantage of early registration discounts. Tuition is $3,250 for association members – $3,950 for community members. Check out our website or call the CLHS school office for an application. (217-394-2547) Family tuition rates available. Scrip Update - Our total sales as of February 3, since our inception is $508,965. From this we have a profit of $27,015.04. New on the list is: Onarga Theater - $12 & $30 denominations @ 10%. Gift certificates are good for tickets and concessions. Dave’s Supermarket in Fairbury. Thank you to all who are using Scrip. Pick up a form at the office or visit our web site. www.christlutheranbuckley.com Blood Drive will be held on Thursday, March 6, from 1:00-6:00 p.m. in Crusader Hall. Call in for an appointment or walk-ins are welcome. Dartball Tournament The Dartball League will have their annual tournament at the CLHS gym on Thursday, March 13, and Sunday, March 16. Following the tourney on Sunday evening is the awards banquet in Crusader Hall. Trophies and awards are presented and officers for next year are elected.

St. John’s Ladies Aid

February 6, 2014

The Ladies Aid held its regular meeting on

February 6, 2014, in the church basement.

President Ruth Jones called the meeting to

order and welcomed all members and guests.

Arliss Dettmering began with a brief devotion and

prayer.

Pastor Olson installed Rena Wagner as the

treasurer for the 2014-2015 years. He then led a

Bible study on the 40 days of Lent.

As Interim Principal at St. John’s School,

Pastor Olson discussed the need for a bus at St.

John’s, talked about the upcoming Chicken Supper

and all that the PTL does for the school, and

reported the recruitment of students for next year

has begun.

Roll call was taken with 10 members present.

The minutes of the December meeting were read

and approved. (No meeting was held in January

due to the weather.)

Thank you notes were read from Mark

Schwarz, seminary student at St. Louis; Mary

Cowan, Pastor Olson, Kori Balk, Irene Hilligoss,

Viola Sheetz, Helen Niemann, Wanda Ecker,

Melanie Niemann, Kelli Breymeyer, Kayla Cowan,

Kelsey Mingee, Prairieview Lutheran Home,

Lutheran Hour Ministries, and Concordia

Theological Seminary.

The treasurer’s report was given and filed for

audit. Collection was for mites. The annual report

was also handed out. It is time to pay dues for

2014.

President Jones thanked all who baked cookies

for Advent services, the work committee for the

Christmas party and the Circuit Pastors’ lunch, and

all who helped with the chili/oyster luncheon.

Human Care Committee:

Gift cards were sent to students at Christmas.

Also gift bags were taken to shut ins. Both

were very much appreciated.

Next month cookies should be brought for the

veterans. They can be homemade or

purchased.

Quilting will resume when the weather gets

better. It will be announced in the bulletin. If

anyone wants to work at home, the supplies are

available.

The Prairieview quilt blocks for embroidering

will be distributed next month.

The Flower Committee reported 54 poinsettias

were purchased for Christmas.

The chili/oyster luncheon went well. The

weather may have kept some people from

attending but the profit was slightly higher than

last year.

President Jones reported Dale and Sue Luhrsen

volunteered to fill the vacancy on the recording

committee. Thank you to them.

Glenda Weisenbarn reported she and Donna

Steiner audited the books for 2013 and all was

perfect.

During Lutheran Schools Week, Ruth Cluver

and Lois Teske prepared homemade cinnamon

rolls for the St. John’s school staff. Ruth Jones

delivered them. All were very pleased to get

them.

Since Ruth Biggs agreed to teach second grade

through the end of the school year, Jeanne Short

was appointed to fill in for her as the society’s

secretary.

Each year money is invested with the Church

Extension Fund. A motion was made, seconded

and passed to do so again this year.

The 2014 Ladies Aid book was distributed to

all members present.

The St. John’s school chicken dinner/silent

auction is February 16. It was decided to once

again make two baked goods baskets to donate. A

sign up sheet was available. Baked goods should

be at Bert Weber’s house by 1:00 p.m. on

February 15. In addition, the PTL President

requested help making potato salad. Members

who signed up should be at school at 1:00 on

February 14. Finally, a sign up sheet was

available for those willing to donate pies and jell-o

salads.

Prior to the next meeting, Lent will begin. A

sign up sheet for cookies for the Lenten meals was

available. Those signing up should bring 3 dozen

cookies.

The March serving committee is Rena Wagner

and Ruth Jones. The February flower committee

is Norma Niemann. The February visiting

committee is Lois Teske and Ruth Cluver. The

January and February birthdays are Arliss

Dettmering, Viola Sheetz, and Iona Scheiwe,

The meeting closed with the Birthday Song,

the Lord’s Prayer and the common table prayer.

Jeanne Short, Acting Secretary

HELP NEEDED - Church/School Picnic

It is not too early to begin planning for the

picnic, which will be held on Saturday, June 28. If

you are willing to help with the planning (deciding

on games/stands, purchasing prizes, organizing the

food stand, scheduling workers), please contact the

church office or the school office. It takes many

people to make the picnic a success and your

assistance would be appreciated.

LCMS Initial Reaction to Thrivent Policy Change

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, guided by

the Word of God, is unabashedly and actively pro-life.

Thus we are deeply concerned by Thrivent Financial

for Lutherans’ decision, announced February 6, 2014,

to adopt a “Financial Neutrality Policy” effective

immediately to guide its decisions for outreach

funding of charitable organizations.

Under this new policy, neither pro-abortion nor pro

-life organizations are eligible to receive outreach

support or funding from any of Thrivent’s charitable

assistance funding programs. While we applaud the

restrictions on funding pro-abortion organizations, this

is not the outcome we had envisioned for the more

than 50 pro-life charitable organizations that have

received Thrivent assistance in the past to provide key

support for women, children and families. Sadly, this

leaves many Christian pro-life agencies providing

these pivotal services in a position of unexpected

financial shortfall.

Synod leadership is keenly aware of these

troubling events and is in the process of reviewing the

details and implications of this new policy to

determine a course of action in response to it.

In the meantime, under the new policy, we

understand that LCMS members may earmark their

Thrivent Choice Dollars® for their local parish, and

we encourage LCMS parishes receiving these funds to

use them to fund pro-life organizations. We further

encourage LCMS Thrivent members to contact

Thrivent directly with any questions or concerns about

its policy.

ST. JOHN’S ALUMNI EAGLE AWARD

Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will

renew their strength. They will soar on wings like

eagles.”

The St. John’s Alumni Eagle Award is

established to recognize both alumni and friends of

St. John’s who have made significant contributions

to the school and to society. There are four award

categories (3 St. John’s Graduate Alumni Awards,

1 friends or alumni of school).

Inspiration Award:

Alumni whose achievements have been

inspirational to others; such as pastors, educators,

military leaders, including POWs.

Leadership Award:

Alumni who have excelled in their fields; such

as doctors, judges, etc.

Spirit Award:

Alumni who have excelled in the fields of

music, sports, arts.

School Supporter Award:

Special recognition of alumni or non-alumni

who have supported the work of the school

throughout the years.

Procedure:

The program will be administered by the Life

Committee. Each year an article will be placed in

the March and April church newsletters requesting

nominations to be received by April 15.

Nominations should include brief background and

supporting information as to why the individual is

being nominated and submitted to the school office.

Also include name, phone number, or email address

of the individual submitting the nomination so

contact can be made if further information is

needed.

The selection committee will include members

of the Life Committee and other members of the

congregation. The committee will determine the

number of individuals to be recognized in each

category. Individuals selected will receive a

Certificate of Recognition at the 8th grade

graduation exercise.

Nominations must be received in the school

office by Tuesday, April 15. If you are making the

nomination, be sure to include your contact

information in case of questions.

I would like to thank Pastor Olson for his

prayers and visits while I was in the hospital

and at Heartland Health Care. They were

really appreciated. Also thanks to all my

friends for visiting me at Heartland. Days go

by very slowly there. Thanks for all the pretty

cards, flowers, Christmas tree and candy -

nothing like chocolate candy at Christmas

time.

Love to all

Irene Hilligoss

We wish to thank everyone for your

prayers, visits, cards, food and good wishes

following our recent surgeries. A special

thank you to Pastor Olson for his visits and

prayers. God’s blessings to all.

Elmer & Alberta Weber

Thank you to the anonymous donor for the

chicken dinners that were delivered to us.

They were very good and much appreciated.

The family of Don Ostrand would like to

thank everyone for their prayers, cards, and

memorials during the time of my brother's

surgery and death. Thanks also to Pastor

Olson for his visit. It means so much at times

like this.

Wayne & Marilyn Weber

and family

Thank You

OFFICIAL ACTS February 2014

Baptism Keaton Michael Alt, son of Michael &

Brittny Dettmering Alt

Born: December 15, 2013

Baptized: February 16, 2014

Jeanette Tobeck has given a gift to the

School Renovation Fund in thankfulness for

Dennis Luhrsen, who has cleaned her

sidewalks.

A gift of “thanks” was given by Vesta

Schumacher for the many things the Cluvers

and other do for her.

The family of Isaac Steiner has given a

gift to the School Renovation Fund in loving

memory of their father.

Gifts

Gary Kingery 3/1 Eric Steiner 3/2 Matt Wagner 3/2 Jessica DeBella 3/4 Melodee Hull 3/4 Kassandra Ecker 3/5 Ashley Behrens 3/6 Kim Elliott 3/6 Jade Janssen 3/6 Jacob Lessman 3/6 Cassie Rohrbach 3/6 Alexandria Tofari 3/6 Andrew Zenner 3/6 Anthony Conn 3/7 Alan Dudley 3/7 Becky Weisenbarn 3/7 Nautica McNeeley 3/8 Lisa Rock 3/8 Kyle Smith 3/8 Amanda Schuldt 3/9 Cindy Miller 3/10 Kyler Livering 3/11 Phyllis Luhrsen 3/11 Terry Niemann 3/12 Corey Grohler 3/13 Joshua Houtzel 3/13 Austin Sanders 3/13 Delmar Steinmann 3/14 Matthew Tobeck 3/14 Desirae Zook 3/14 Kim Janssen 3/16 Ronnie Knuth 3/17 Eileen Luttrell 3/17 Tammie Zook 3/17 Stacie Bruens 3/18 Nathanael Reutter 3/18 June Rohlwing 3/18 Steven Rust 3/18 Keri Tavenner 3/18 Glenn Jones 3/19

Sue Luhrsen 3/19 Jacob Verhoeven 3/19 Amanda Ennen 3/20 Amy Ennen 3/20 Jodee Kuester 3/20 Destini Martinez 3/20 Russ Plath 3/20 Kyler Foellner 3/21 Addisyn Hilligoss 3/21 Brad Weisenbarn 3/21 Preston Young 3/21 Jason Reitz 3/22 Belinda Rust 3/22 Vivian Gronewold 3/23 Rylee Masco 3/23 Roger Williamson 3/23 Gracelyn Greenburg 3/24 Kaidyn Sledge 3/24 Regina Wells 3/24 Sandi Johnson 3/25 Kelsey Mingee 3/25 Jamie Rothermel 3/25 Alexander Overman 3/26 Alaina Poplett 3/26 Carol Dettmering 3/27 Eric Rascher 3/27 Jaden Bender 3/28 Dustin Luhrsen 3/28 Becca Morris 3/28 Barbara Moynihan 3/28 Michelle Theesfeld 3/28 Laura Birge 3/29 Gnoah Frank 3/29 Kurt Krumwiede 3/29 Lois Teske 3/29 Dorothy Goetting 3/30 Carol Luecke 3/30 Ivan Behrens 3/31 Ava Henderson 3/31 Rachel Tobeck 3/31

Andrea & Christopher Lighthill 3/15/2003 Stan & Judy Sheetz 3/17/1973 Steve & Dena Reynolds 3/18/1995 Kevin & Amanda Kretzer 3/21/1998 Robert & Teresa Sturm 3/21/1981 Steve & Bonnie Balk 3/22/1980 Jorge & Grace Rosales 3/22/1988 Terry & Barbara Schuldt 3/22/1975 Matthew & Amanda Avery 3/24/2012 Glenn & Connie Neukomm 3/25/1972 Allan & Karen Lee 3/29/1969 Jami & Cory Roberts 3/29/2008 Lisa & Pat Rock 3/31/2012

Savings Account Balances

As of 1/31/2014

Account Last Month’s

Balance

Current

Income

Monthly

Disbursements

Current

Balance

Building 12,135.15 200.00 12,335.15

Bus 636.81 636.81

Cemetery 9,963.62 .68 9,964.30

CLHS Scholarship 1,386.02 436.00 1,385.91 436.11

Concert 970.38 970.38

Gross-Winterstein 3,164.63 3,164.63

Historical 492.47 492.47

Office Equipment 166.05 166.05

Organ 1,886.21 1,886.21

Recorder 1,867.76 1,867.76

Reserve 4,973.22 5,026.78 10,000.00

School Renovation 0.00 27,981.48 27,971.48 10.00

TOTALS 37,642.32 33,644.94 29,357.39 41,929.87

MEMORIALS

In Memory of Don Ostrand School Renovation $200.00

In Memory of Elmer Tiarks School Renovation $20.00

Church Attendance Saturday & Sunday Services

2014 2013 January 26 222 335 February 2 215 283 February 9 235 300 February 16 269 275 February 23 278 269

Average for the Month: 244 292

(Average does not include mid-week services.)

MISSION GOAL FOR 2014 $32,000.00

MISSION YEAR TO DATE 1,696.00

CLHS MISSION GOAL 2014 $11,000.00

CLHS YEAR TO DATE 1,593.00

School Renovation Fund Update as of January 31

Total Paid to Date $840,000.00

Bank Loan $322,500.00

January payment (January 31) 25,344.83

Interest 594.74

Principal 24,750.09

Amount Owed to Date $150,317.44

January 2014 Comparison Report

Beginning Balance 1/1/2014

28,336.50 Current Month YTD

1/1/2014 -

1/31/2014

7/1/2013 -

6/30/2014

INCOME

After School Program Income 195.00 1,696.89

Bank Loan 0.00 0.00

Bulletin 50.00 575.00

DivInc 0.00 100.00

Envelope 21,708.62 243,596.54

Gifts 21,259.31 32,522.21

Interest Income 0.00 3,614.27

Loose Plate 1,553.61 14,185.63

Lunch Salary 0.00 7,525.56

Memorials 0.00 576.00

Reimbursements (9.10) (136.06)

Transfer* 0.00 0.00

Tuition 7,511.38 71,130.89

Use of Building 50.00 270.00

TOTAL INCOME 52,318.82 375,656.93

EXPENSES

After School Program Expenses 62.50 3,019.43

Bldg Maint Ch 0.00 2.99

Bldg Maint Parsonage 50.00 194.00

Bldg Maint Sch 265.00 1,754.95

Church Exp (15.00) 2,543.24

Concordia Plan Services-Ch 2,858.55 18,223.93

Concordia Plan Services-Sch 5,726.16 32,364.03

Conference Exp 45.00 343.24

Insurance 0.00 11,087.00

Janitor Spls 312.79 2,174.85

Mileage 361.04 3,830.71

Mileage - Guest 47.46 475.52

Office Exp 822.82 2,864.80

Organist 405.00 3,285.00

Paper Shipment 25.41 571.03

Payroll Taxes 872.82 5,852.98

Postage 47.73 638.23

Salaries-Ch 7,815.62 54,921.32

Salaries-Guest 100.00 920.00

Salaries-Sch 24,971.26 174,259.65

Sub. Teachers 69.26 2,334.07

Substitute Help 88.08 602.58

Sunday School 0.00 582.97

Utilities-Ch 1,471.47 4,600.20

Utilities-Parsonage 681.36 3,601.26

Utilities-Sch 1,296.00 7,495.42

VBS 0.00 (174.35)

TOTAL EXPENSES 48,380.33 338,369.05

OVERALL TOTAL 3,938.49 37,287.88

Ending Balance 1/31/2014

32,274.99

$5,026 has been paid back to the Reserve Fund - no money owed to this account.

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Non-Profit Organization

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PAID

Buckley, IL 60918-0006

Permit No. 3

St. John’s Lutheran Church

206 East Main Street

P. O. Box 6

Buckley, Illinois 60918-0006

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