NOVEMBER

2 0 1 0

St. John UCC

Bringing the Healing Love of Christ

To Our Community for the Glory of God

ST. JOHN UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

1 0 1 0 S P AR K B L V D ~ F R E E P O R T , IL

www.stjohnuccfreeport.org

The TIDINGS

2

ST.JOHN UCC TIDINGS

VOLUME 75 NOVEMBER 2010

CHURCH STAFF

MINISTERS………………….…THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH SENIOR PASTOR……………………...……DONNLEY DUTCHER DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRY…KEVIN ECKERT MINISTRY OF CHURCH LIFE & MEMBERSHIP…....PAM WESSEL STAFF SECRETARY…………………………..KIRSTEN ECKERT ORGANISTS………….CAROLE BERTRAM & MARSHA ROBERTS

OFFICE HOURS MONDAY– FRIDAY...…8:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.…&.1:00 TO 4:00 P.M.

Church (815) 235-2824 E-Mail: stjohn@comcast.net

Website: www.stjohnuccfreeport.org

Deadline for submitting articles in the TIDINGS Newsletter is

the 3rd Tuesday of the month.

AS THE SPIRIT MOVES ME…..

As I will be on vacation when the deadline for this issue of The Tidings is due, I‘ve decided to share my reflection on resting in God that I wrote while on my recent annual spiritual retreat. It is part of what I shared in my reflections on Oct. 3rd, but maybe those of you who heard it the first

time would like to read it, again.

―…and God rested on the seventh day from all the work that God

had done.‖ Genesis 2:2

Rest is more than snoozing and sleep, though snoozing and sleep may be very restful. But the kind of rest God enjoyed - and which we are to enjoy - is a rest that includes the cessation of labor and an appreciation for what now is. There is no anxious labor or concern for that which is yet unfinished. There is a freedom from responsibility to others, with only a responsibility to God and self. Spiritual rest even frees the spirit of one‘s soul from the anxious concern of exercises that work the soul, and from

guilt for not working and doing.

It is a rest that allows one to sit in silence, without reflecting, without analyzing, without going deeper, without planning, foretelling, solving or creating metaphors; or for even looking to find spiritual insights and connections, which, for some, is a

continuation of their work.

It is simply being at a pace of stillness or effortless journeying.

It is awkward to encounter, experience, or practice such restfulness in our time, in our culture - without interruption, without the need to call, connect, email, text or communicate. To some, the thought or the experience of such is offensive. To others it is irresponsible. To others it is foreign to their experience - sacrilegious to the idol we have made of labor and work. Yet, labor and work are neither holy, nor worthy of being worshiped, in and of themselves, as we do - or there would be no yearning for

retirement, nor would God have rested from His labors.

3

ST.JOHN UCC TIDINGS

VOLUME 75 NOVEMBER 2010

CHURCH STAFF

MINISTERS………………….…THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH SENIOR PASTOR……………………...……DONNLEY DUTCHER DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRY…KEVIN ECKERT MINISTRY OF CHURCH LIFE & MEMBERSHIP…....PAM WESSEL STAFF SECRETARY…………………………..KIRSTEN ECKERT ORGANISTS………….CAROLE BERTRAM & MARSHA ROBERTS

OFFICE HOURS MONDAY– FRIDAY...…8:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.…&.1:00 TO 4:00 P.M.

Church (815) 235-2824 E-Mail: stjohn@comcast.net

Website: www.stjohnuccfreeport.org

Deadline for submitting articles in the TIDINGS Newsletter is

the 3rd Tuesday of the month.

AS THE SPIRIT MOVES ME…..

As I will be on vacation when the deadline for this issue of The Tidings is due, I‘ve decided to share my reflection on resting in God that I wrote while on my recent annual spiritual retreat. It is part of what I shared in my reflections on Oct. 3rd, but maybe those of you who heard it the first

time would like to read it, again.

―…and God rested on the seventh day from all the work that God

had done.‖ Genesis 2:2

Rest is more than snoozing and sleep, though snoozing and sleep may be very restful. But the kind of rest God enjoyed - and which we are to enjoy - is a rest that includes the cessation of labor and an appreciation for what now is. There is no anxious labor or concern for that which is yet unfinished. There is a freedom from responsibility to others, with only a responsibility to God and self. Spiritual rest even frees the spirit of one‘s soul from the anxious concern of exercises that work the soul, and from

guilt for not working and doing.

It is a rest that allows one to sit in silence, without reflecting, without analyzing, without going deeper, without planning, foretelling, solving or creating metaphors; or for even looking to find spiritual insights and connections, which, for some, is a

continuation of their work.

It is simply being at a pace of stillness or effortless journeying.

It is awkward to encounter, experience, or practice such restfulness in our time, in our culture - without interruption, without the need to call, connect, email, text or communicate. To some, the thought or the experience of such is offensive. To others it is irresponsible. To others it is foreign to their experience - sacrilegious to the idol we have made of labor and work. Yet, labor and work are neither holy, nor worthy of being worshiped, in and of themselves, as we do - or there would be no yearning for

retirement, nor would God have rested from His labors.

4

I wonder if the writer of Ecclesiastes was a workaholic, since he didn‘t mention that there is a time for work and a time for

rest? .. Yet, God rested on the seventh day.

I have rested in God‘s presence in a place that has become a sacred and holy place for me. Here, I know I am in God‘s

presence, even when God remains silent before me.

I‘ve rested my heart and soul, for the most part, as I‘ve swung on a swing hanging in a tree; listened to an owl; watched blue jays, robins and other birds dart here and there, playfully and otherwise; listened to the calls of multiple birds and watched a woodpecker beat his head against a tree to get his morning meal; noticed a hawk perched on its peak and a squirrel perched on a tree branch, as it twirled and ate a pine cone held in its front

paws.

I‘ve sat in silence, walked at a slow, leisurely pace in silence, and lingered to watch a rabbit turn from fear to calm in my presence, whereupon I watched it pick up a fallen leaf and eat it, then lifted and clean its front leg, as though it were a cat cleaning

itself.

I‘ve been given spiritual rest for my body and my soul, my spirit and my being. I have had my spirit fed and refreshed by some

time in a sacred space, and I give thanks to God.

Few people know the kind of rest of which I write, for their spirits are filled with anxious concern for others and self. They, like I, often feel a compulsion to fill their lives - and the lives of their children - with every opportunity for doing, going, planning, completing and competing, without ever taking any time to truly

rest in God and in God‘s presence.

Their labors and their never-ending activity, often, reveal an unconscious sense of responsibility and guilt that makes an idol of

activity and work and a sin of resting from one‘s labors.

So our Sabbath day is not a time of Sabbath rest. It‘s a day to do what we could not get done the other six days, because we have so imbalanced our lives toward activity and doing, without

giving appropriate balance to just being. But, since the activity of our Sabbath days is, often, not ―job-related,‖ we tell ourselves it isn‘t work. Well, it isn‘t rest, either! ―And God rested on the

seventh day…‖

This was my seventh trip to Mercy Center. It was a time for rest, since God has designated the seventh day as a day of rest;

and God and I are at peace with that.

Thank You, God!

FREEPORT AREA COMMUNITY THANKSGIVNG

WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday, November 21st at 7:00 pm

Freeport Church of the Brethren

The corner of West and Pleasant

HELP FIND OUR NEXT CHOIR DIRECTOR

AND PART-TIME ACCOMPANIST

The Worship Ministry's initial effort to find a new choir director and part-time accompanist yielded no interest—at least from music personnel in our area school districts. Perhaps you know someone with the music experience needed for either of these positions. Or perhaps that person has friends or acquaintances that might be interested. The Worship Ministry decided that word-of-mouth inquiry and personal contacts might be more effective in finding musicians to fill these positions. If you find an interested person, please refer them to Pastor Donnley or a member of the Worship Ministry (see members listed in the

church directory). Thank you.

5

I wonder if the writer of Ecclesiastes was a workaholic, since he didn‘t mention that there is a time for work and a time for

rest? .. Yet, God rested on the seventh day.

I have rested in God‘s presence in a place that has become a sacred and holy place for me. Here, I know I am in God‘s

presence, even when God remains silent before me.

I‘ve rested my heart and soul, for the most part, as I‘ve swung on a swing hanging in a tree; listened to an owl; watched blue jays, robins and other birds dart here and there, playfully and otherwise; listened to the calls of multiple birds and watched a woodpecker beat his head against a tree to get his morning meal; noticed a hawk perched on its peak and a squirrel perched on a tree branch, as it twirled and ate a pine cone held in its front

paws.

I‘ve sat in silence, walked at a slow, leisurely pace in silence, and lingered to watch a rabbit turn from fear to calm in my presence, whereupon I watched it pick up a fallen leaf and eat it, then lifted and clean its front leg, as though it were a cat cleaning

itself.

I‘ve been given spiritual rest for my body and my soul, my spirit and my being. I have had my spirit fed and refreshed by some

time in a sacred space, and I give thanks to God.

Few people know the kind of rest of which I write, for their spirits are filled with anxious concern for others and self. They, like I, often feel a compulsion to fill their lives - and the lives of their children - with every opportunity for doing, going, planning, completing and competing, without ever taking any time to truly

rest in God and in God‘s presence.

Their labors and their never-ending activity, often, reveal an unconscious sense of responsibility and guilt that makes an idol of

activity and work and a sin of resting from one‘s labors.

So our Sabbath day is not a time of Sabbath rest. It‘s a day to do what we could not get done the other six days, because we have so imbalanced our lives toward activity and doing, without

giving appropriate balance to just being. But, since the activity of our Sabbath days is, often, not ―job-related,‖ we tell ourselves it isn‘t work. Well, it isn‘t rest, either! ―And God rested on the

seventh day…‖

This was my seventh trip to Mercy Center. It was a time for rest, since God has designated the seventh day as a day of rest;

and God and I are at peace with that.

Thank You, God!

FREEPORT AREA COMMUNITY THANKSGIVNG

WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday, November 21st at 7:00 pm

Freeport Church of the Brethren

The corner of West and Pleasant

HELP FIND OUR NEXT CHOIR DIRECTOR

AND PART-TIME ACCOMPANIST

The Worship Ministry's initial effort to find a new choir director and part-time accompanist yielded no interest—at least from music personnel in our area school districts. Perhaps you know someone with the music experience needed for either of these positions. Or perhaps that person has friends or acquaintances that might be interested. The Worship Ministry decided that word-of-mouth inquiry and personal contacts might be more effective in finding musicians to fill these positions. If you find an interested person, please refer them to Pastor Donnley or a member of the Worship Ministry (see members listed in the

church directory). Thank you.

6

Kevin’s Korner…..

So I didn‘t want to run today. everything inside me said forget it, relax. I had gotten on the scale this morning and the numbers were up and it frustrates me because I‘m working so hard and keeping my calories right were they need to be. I had to keep telling myself to push on and trust that God‘s at work. Sometimes that is easier than others. Today it was really

hard. I dropped Kalel off at Preschool and I had already dressed in workout clothes so I hit the pavement for a little one on one time with God. He was going to get an earful from me this

morning.

Well, God did most of the talking today. I cried as I ran. I was flooded with emotion on just how much God is in control and I just need to trust he is at work in me and His plan will continue to be a blessing in my life. No matter what the scale says, today! God has been at work within my life yesterday, today and He will be tomorrow as well. As I looked back at the last several years of my life I realized how the scale has moved the direction I wanted but rarely at the speed at which I have desired. If it had I may not have relied on God for strength as much as I did and

continue to.

God‘s timing is perfect. God brought the past to my mind and made me realize how blessed I am today! As you go about your day today, take some time to chat with God. He wants to talk with you. Maybe you need some reassurance about His plan for your life. Maybe you‘re frustrated with the scale (or other ways you measure your success) like I was today. Ask God what‘s up and

He will answer.

Consumed by the call,

Kevin T. Eckert

Director of Children & Youth/Director of Technologies

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

November 21st wi l l be the Congregational Meeting to review the proposed budget for

2011.

CHURCH WOMEN UNITED OF FREEPORT

World Community Day celebration service is being held November 5th at 1:30 pm at First Lutheran Church in Freeport. The Theme is ―Building the Beloved Community.‖ The focus is

economic justice and how our youth are used for profit.

There is a Bible study on the theme on October 29th at 9:30 am

at First Lutheran.

ENDOWMENT

Legacy of Love

As part of the congregation‘s ministry to its members, St. John United Church of Christ Endowment, Inc. has planned a special program to share information with you which will be helpful in planning your estate for the benefit of yourself, your loved ones, and your church. We will feature a video presentation, ―Legacy

of Love‖ with the opportunity for group discussion following.

Please mark your calendar to join us for the meeting on Sunday, November 7, 2010 in the sanctuary following the regular church service. We will start the program at approximately 10:30. The

program is anticipated to be one hour long.

Endowment board members Leland Otte, Joanne Schwandt, Roger Swanlund, Lyle Krug, and Council President, Perry

Cowan, will be available to answer your questions.

We look forward to your participation.

St. John United Church of Christ Endowment, Inc.

7

Kevin’s Korner…..

So I didn‘t want to run today. everything inside me said forget it, relax. I had gotten on the scale this morning and the numbers were up and it frustrates me because I‘m working so hard and keeping my calories right were they need to be. I had to keep telling myself to push on and trust that God‘s at work. Sometimes that is easier than others. Today it was really

hard. I dropped Kalel off at Preschool and I had already dressed in workout clothes so I hit the pavement for a little one on one time with God. He was going to get an earful from me this

morning.

Well, God did most of the talking today. I cried as I ran. I was flooded with emotion on just how much God is in control and I just need to trust he is at work in me and His plan will continue to be a blessing in my life. No matter what the scale says, today! God has been at work within my life yesterday, today and He will be tomorrow as well. As I looked back at the last several years of my life I realized how the scale has moved the direction I wanted but rarely at the speed at which I have desired. If it had I may not have relied on God for strength as much as I did and

continue to.

God‘s timing is perfect. God brought the past to my mind and made me realize how blessed I am today! As you go about your day today, take some time to chat with God. He wants to talk with you. Maybe you need some reassurance about His plan for your life. Maybe you‘re frustrated with the scale (or other ways you measure your success) like I was today. Ask God what‘s up and

He will answer.

Consumed by the call,

Kevin T. Eckert

Director of Children & Youth/Director of Technologies

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

November 21st wi l l be the Congregational Meeting to review the proposed budget for

2011.

CHURCH WOMEN UNITED OF FREEPORT

World Community Day celebration service is being held November 5th at 1:30 pm at First Lutheran Church in Freeport. The Theme is ―Building the Beloved Community.‖ The focus is

economic justice and how our youth are used for profit.

There is a Bible study on the theme on October 29th at 9:30 am

at First Lutheran.

ENDOWMENT

Legacy of Love

As part of the congregation‘s ministry to its members, St. John United Church of Christ Endowment, Inc. has planned a special program to share information with you which will be helpful in planning your estate for the benefit of yourself, your loved ones, and your church. We will feature a video presentation, ―Legacy

of Love‖ with the opportunity for group discussion following.

Please mark your calendar to join us for the meeting on Sunday, November 7, 2010 in the sanctuary following the regular church service. We will start the program at approximately 10:30. The

program is anticipated to be one hour long.

Endowment board members Leland Otte, Joanne Schwandt, Roger Swanlund, Lyle Krug, and Council President, Perry

Cowan, will be available to answer your questions.

We look forward to your participation.

St. John United Church of Christ Endowment, Inc.

8

LAYCARE M INISTRY

―do this in remembrance of me.”

As I listened to the words of Pastor Donnley, at the Communion Service that third Sunday in October, I had many thoughts go through my mind about people and things I

remember.

Of course, I remember Jesus and how he died for me, and you,

so our sins can be forgiven and no longer remembered.

I also remember ‗things‘. I remember ‗autograph books‘ and I remember ‗diaries‘. Why do I tell you this, you ask? Well, my mom, and you are all getting pretty well acquainted with her, wrote in her diary on a daily basis. Example: November 1, 1965 she wrote ― High today 68. Another lovely day. Audrey took Ken and Tootie to Warren.. Ken left for Chicago on the train. Then we went to the doctor to get cold medicine for Kim and Kurt. We also bought some material for a comforter. Then we went on to Freeport to get basketball supplies for Mark and Mike. We

stopped at Marilyn’s for a few minutes.”

She was keeping track of her family‘s daily activities - now you see, when I get that ―I miss you Mom‖ feeling, I just get her diary

out and start reading. I remember you, Mom.

I pass this on to you, because every morning my Mom read the Bible and every day, at some point, she wrote in her diary. These are wonderful memories of my Mom for me. It is a constant reminder of how she loved God and how she loved her family and how she took the time to make notes showing how she

appreciated each day God granted her life on this earth.

When I read my Bible, I ―highlight‖ some verses and I also jot notes in the margins of my Bible. Mom‘s Bible was too sacred to

her, she would never deface it with scribbled notes.

I wonder if young people today know what a ―Five year Diary‖ is or if they have ever seen one - I wonder if our young people know what an ―Autograph Book‖ is. We have computers with memory

Poinsettia Order Form

Add the bright red glow of beautiful poinsettias to the soft warm glow of candlelight and our sanctuary will be ready to proclaim the message of Christmas. You are invited to ―remember a loved one or honor a family member‖ by placing a poinsettia in our

sanctuary at Christmas. We are offering these plants at $9.50 each, (ordered from Deiningers) and you will be able to take your plant home at the close of our 7:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Service.

Please return this form to the office by December 1st.

I/We wish to place _______ poinsettia plant/s in the sanctuary to

add to the beauty of the season. Enclosed is $___________

($9.50 per plant).

IN MEMORY OF ____________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

IN HONOR OF ______________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

PRESENTED BY ____________________________________________________________

Please take to a shut-in: ___________________________________________________

I will pick up my poinsettia. ________________________________________________

9

LAYCARE M INISTRY

―do this in remembrance of me.”

As I listened to the words of Pastor Donnley, at the Communion Service that third Sunday in October, I had many thoughts go through my mind about people and things I

remember.

Of course, I remember Jesus and how he died for me, and you,

so our sins can be forgiven and no longer remembered.

I also remember ‗things‘. I remember ‗autograph books‘ and I remember ‗diaries‘. Why do I tell you this, you ask? Well, my mom, and you are all getting pretty well acquainted with her, wrote in her diary on a daily basis. Example: November 1, 1965 she wrote ― High today 68. Another lovely day. Audrey took Ken and Tootie to Warren.. Ken left for Chicago on the train. Then we went to the doctor to get cold medicine for Kim and Kurt. We also bought some material for a comforter. Then we went on to Freeport to get basketball supplies for Mark and Mike. We

stopped at Marilyn’s for a few minutes.”

She was keeping track of her family‘s daily activities - now you see, when I get that ―I miss you Mom‖ feeling, I just get her diary

out and start reading. I remember you, Mom.

I pass this on to you, because every morning my Mom read the Bible and every day, at some point, she wrote in her diary. These are wonderful memories of my Mom for me. It is a constant reminder of how she loved God and how she loved her family and how she took the time to make notes showing how she

appreciated each day God granted her life on this earth.

When I read my Bible, I ―highlight‖ some verses and I also jot notes in the margins of my Bible. Mom‘s Bible was too sacred to

her, she would never deface it with scribbled notes.

I wonder if young people today know what a ―Five year Diary‖ is or if they have ever seen one - I wonder if our young people know what an ―Autograph Book‖ is. We have computers with memory

10

banks. There is something very heart-warming when I open my

Mom‘s 5 Year Diary and read her thoughts.

I think God has an ―autograph book‖ I see it when I go outdoors. I can see God‘s autograph whenever I witness Monarch Butterflies flitting in the air, I can see God‘s autograph whenever I see clear blue skies and then out of nowhere a beautiful white cloud enters. That, to me is God‘s hand, God‘s autograph. I

thank God every day for the abundant reminders of His love.

What lovely memories do you carry with you?

Peace and Love,

Marilyn Ruthe, Coordinator of Laycare Ministry

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

It‘s time to give a report on this ministry - we have presented 127 shawls since this ministry began. The shawls are always a priceless gift

to all who receive them.

Our inventory of shawls is low - but since the weather is cooler I am sure that will be corrected. I want to thank all of the ladies who knit the shawls and I want to thank all of you who have donated monetary gifts and yarn to continue this

ministry.

I remind you, too, that the Mitten Tree will soon be proudly standing in the lower level - ready to be adorned with knitted scarves, hats and mittens. Pam has a lot of yarn in her office. Please go in and help yourself - she would like to see that yarn

used for the Mitten Tree.

Again, thank you for so graciously supporting this ministry.

Happy Knitting!

Prayer Shawl and Laycare Ministries

STEWARDSHIP M INISTRY

In 1935, Dr. R. A. Forrest, president of Toccoa Falls College in Georgia, embarked on a trip to visit former students who were serving the Lord on the mission field. R. G. LeTourneau, a prominent Christian businessman, heard him speak in Omaha and was

very encouraged by what he heard. The night before Dr. Forrest sailed to Japan, a letter arrived at his hotel containing a check from Mr. LeTourneau for $1,000. Mr. LeTourneau thought it would be nice if Dr. Forrest ―had some money in his pocket as he went

around the world to give to folks in a tough spot.‖

Dr. Forrest was elated and kept a detailed accounting of how he used that money to minister to people in need. When he returned to New York, he mailed the records to Mr. LeTourneau. A few days later, a reply came from Mr. LeTourneau that simply read, ―Come see me.‖ When Dr. Forrest arrived at Mr. LeTourneau‘s office in Peoria, he found a man who was deeply moved by Dr. Forrest‘s record of changed lives. He said, ―If you can be trusted with $1,000 and make that kind of impact, you can be trusted with

$10,000‖ and gave him a check in that amount.

Dr. Forrest had received ―without payment,‖ and he gave ―without payment‖ (Matt. 10:8). He typified the kind of giving that God expects each of us to demonstrate as we respond to His good gifts by giving back to Him what was rightfully His in the first

place.

Charles Stanley wrote this: ―When God deals with us, it is always in abundant grace. He is lavish with His love and forgiveness. None of us can ever repay Christ for what He did for us at Calvary. He generously gave His life so we could enjoy eternal life.‖ He went on to say, ―There are two kinds of people: givers and keepers. . . .If you decide to be a keeper, you will miss God‘s richest blessings. But when you give yourself away, you will reap

the goodness of God.‖

That‘s because it is impossible to out give God who has a unique

accounting system. He never divides; He always multiplies.

11

banks. There is something very heart-warming when I open my

Mom‘s 5 Year Diary and read her thoughts.

I think God has an ―autograph book‖ I see it when I go outdoors. I can see God‘s autograph whenever I witness Monarch Butterflies flitting in the air, I can see God‘s autograph whenever I see clear blue skies and then out of nowhere a beautiful white cloud enters. That, to me is God‘s hand, God‘s autograph. I

thank God every day for the abundant reminders of His love.

What lovely memories do you carry with you?

Peace and Love,

Marilyn Ruthe, Coordinator of Laycare Ministry

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

It‘s time to give a report on this ministry - we have presented 127 shawls since this ministry began. The shawls are always a priceless gift

to all who receive them.

Our inventory of shawls is low - but since the weather is cooler I am sure that will be corrected. I want to thank all of the ladies who knit the shawls and I want to thank all of you who have donated monetary gifts and yarn to continue this

ministry.

I remind you, too, that the Mitten Tree will soon be proudly standing in the lower level - ready to be adorned with knitted scarves, hats and mittens. Pam has a lot of yarn in her office. Please go in and help yourself - she would like to see that yarn

used for the Mitten Tree.

Again, thank you for so graciously supporting this ministry.

Happy Knitting!

Prayer Shawl and Laycare Ministries

STEWARDSHIP M INISTRY

In 1935, Dr. R. A. Forrest, president of Toccoa Falls College in Georgia, embarked on a trip to visit former students who were serving the Lord on the mission field. R. G. LeTourneau, a prominent Christian businessman, heard him speak in Omaha and was

very encouraged by what he heard. The night before Dr. Forrest sailed to Japan, a letter arrived at his hotel containing a check from Mr. LeTourneau for $1,000. Mr. LeTourneau thought it would be nice if Dr. Forrest ―had some money in his pocket as he went

around the world to give to folks in a tough spot.‖

Dr. Forrest was elated and kept a detailed accounting of how he used that money to minister to people in need. When he returned to New York, he mailed the records to Mr. LeTourneau. A few days later, a reply came from Mr. LeTourneau that simply read, ―Come see me.‖ When Dr. Forrest arrived at Mr. LeTourneau‘s office in Peoria, he found a man who was deeply moved by Dr. Forrest‘s record of changed lives. He said, ―If you can be trusted with $1,000 and make that kind of impact, you can be trusted with

$10,000‖ and gave him a check in that amount.

Dr. Forrest had received ―without payment,‖ and he gave ―without payment‖ (Matt. 10:8). He typified the kind of giving that God expects each of us to demonstrate as we respond to His good gifts by giving back to Him what was rightfully His in the first

place.

Charles Stanley wrote this: ―When God deals with us, it is always in abundant grace. He is lavish with His love and forgiveness. None of us can ever repay Christ for what He did for us at Calvary. He generously gave His life so we could enjoy eternal life.‖ He went on to say, ―There are two kinds of people: givers and keepers. . . .If you decide to be a keeper, you will miss God‘s richest blessings. But when you give yourself away, you will reap

the goodness of God.‖

That‘s because it is impossible to out give God who has a unique

accounting system. He never divides; He always multiplies.

12

Will you trust Him today by giving generously to Him who ―richly

provides us with everything for our enjoyment‖ (1 Tim. 6:17)?

GIVING for 2011

Members and Friends of St. John UCC:

It is with joyful hearts that we write to thank you for the generosity, faithfulness and support you have given to St. John UCC this year and in past years. Because of the blessing and grace of God, and the support you give through your prayers, presence, service, financial giving and more, we are growing the ministry of our

church to our members, friends, and the community. Thank you!

Earlier this summer, we, as your Stewardship Ministry, were encouraged by the Rev. Bob Sherman, Pastor at Bethany UCC, to make our giving more an act of personal faith than a matter of dollars and cents. Since Christ‘s giving to us and the world was a spiritual act of his faith relationship to God and us, so also our giving is to be the same. Besides, it is a more powerful, meaningful and personally fulfilling act when our giving is an act of

our personal faith rather than just about the dollars we give.

By making it a matter between us and God, we make our giving to the church a more spiritual act of our faith and relationship with God than

just a matter of the church budget or our pocketbook.

This year things will be a little different. In the coming weeks you will be receiving a letter reiterating this shift also an envelope and two half sheets of paper. One of the sheets you are to fill out, place it in the envelop, and seal . Bring or return it to church on Sunday, Nov. 21, to be received and dedicated. (This will never be opened as it is a covenant between you and God.) Then the second sheet you will keep for your records. Remember, we will not be able to tell you what you pledged if you call, because we will not have opened your sealed pledge. However, we will keep a record of your giving for your

faith and tax needs. You will also still receive giving envelopes.

FELLOWSHIP MINISTRY

HOLIDAY COOKIE WALK

November 20th 9:00 a.m. - Noon

Mark your calendars and tell your friends! Our

annual cookie walk is just around the corner. Come and enjoy the

morning with us – come early! Calling all cooks! Begin thinking

about what you want to bake. Look up your most delicious cookie

recipes and decorate them with a holiday flare, make a delightful

snack mix or cook up the most mouth watering candy you have

ever tasted! The calling committee will be sure you are contacted.

Sign-up sheets will be on the bulletin board, so be sure and watch

for them – get your name on the job you enjoy the most. Its lots of

fun so don‘t miss out.

MISSIONS MINISTRY

RED CAN SUNDAY

Please bring your donations of can goods, cereal, pasta, food items as well as the much needed personal items to church each month. We will also be receiving

monetary donations on November 7th for the FACC emergency

fund. $287 was collected in October.

MITTEN TREE

Starting Nov. 1 we will have our annual mitten tree in the entry way for donations of Mittens, Hats, Gloves and Scarves for those in need. Pam has yarn in her

office for anyone to use.

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Will you trust Him today by giving generously to Him who ―richly

provides us with everything for our enjoyment‖ (1 Tim. 6:17)?

GIVING for 2011

Members and Friends of St. John UCC:

It is with joyful hearts that we write to thank you for the generosity, faithfulness and support you have given to St. John UCC this year and in past years. Because of the blessing and grace of God, and the support you give through your prayers, presence, service, financial giving and more, we are growing the ministry of our

church to our members, friends, and the community. Thank you!

Earlier this summer, we, as your Stewardship Ministry, were encouraged by the Rev. Bob Sherman, Pastor at Bethany UCC, to make our giving more an act of personal faith than a matter of dollars and cents. Since Christ‘s giving to us and the world was a spiritual act of his faith relationship to God and us, so also our giving is to be the same. Besides, it is a more powerful, meaningful and personally fulfilling act when our giving is an act of

our personal faith rather than just about the dollars we give.

By making it a matter between us and God, we make our giving to the church a more spiritual act of our faith and relationship with God than

just a matter of the church budget or our pocketbook.

This year things will be a little different. In the coming weeks you will be receiving a letter reiterating this shift also an envelope and two half sheets of paper. One of the sheets you are to fill out, place it in the envelop, and seal . Bring or return it to church on Sunday, Nov. 21, to be received and dedicated. (This will never be opened as it is a covenant between you and God.) Then the second sheet you will keep for your records. Remember, we will not be able to tell you what you pledged if you call, because we will not have opened your sealed pledge. However, we will keep a record of your giving for your

faith and tax needs. You will also still receive giving envelopes.

FELLOWSHIP MINISTRY

HOLIDAY COOKIE WALK

November 20th 9:00 a.m. - Noon

Mark your calendars and tell your friends! Our

annual cookie walk is just around the corner. Come and enjoy the

morning with us – come early! Calling all cooks! Begin thinking

about what you want to bake. Look up your most delicious cookie

recipes and decorate them with a holiday flare, make a delightful

snack mix or cook up the most mouth watering candy you have

ever tasted! The calling committee will be sure you are contacted.

Sign-up sheets will be on the bulletin board, so be sure and watch

for them – get your name on the job you enjoy the most. Its lots of

fun so don‘t miss out.

MISSIONS MINISTRY

RED CAN SUNDAY

Please bring your donations of can goods, cereal, pasta, food items as well as the much needed personal items to church each month. We will also be receiving

monetary donations on November 7th for the FACC emergency

fund. $287 was collected in October.

MITTEN TREE

Starting Nov. 1 we will have our annual mitten tree in the entry way for donations of Mittens, Hats, Gloves and Scarves for those in need. Pam has yarn in her

office for anyone to use.

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CLOTHING ROOM

St. John UCC is working the FACC Clothing room

November 8th and 10th.

9-12 noon and 1-3pm

There is a sign up sheet on the bulleting board in the narthex or call the church and we will mark you down.

FACC PAS TA

It‘s that time again! FACC needs 250 boxes of pasta from St. John. The pasta boxes are put in the Christmas Baskets that FACC gives out to 250 families in the Freeport Area. There will be

a shopping cart in the Narthex for your pasta donations.

PRAYER SERVICE

November 10th at 5:30

Come and be part of a prayer time for Mental Illness Recovery and Understanding on November 10 at 5:30 in the Hearth Room. Prayers and actions of

faith communities are need to restore mental wellness in America. By seeking God's guidance, we can recommit ourselves to replacing misinformation, blame, fear and prejudice with truth and love in order to offer hope to all who are touched by mental illness. This is an ongoing ministry of our church. Please tell

others who might be interested.

O N G O I N G A C T I V I T I E S

BIB L E S T UD Y

We meet at 9 a.m. every Wednesday in the Library. We are studying the book, ―Grace in a Tree Stump‖ by J. Ellsworth

Kalas, come and join us.

CARD CLUB

Card Club will play on the first Monday of the month at 1:00pm.

PING PONG

We meet every Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. (the second week of the month on Tuesday) in the Game Room

(North Wing). We would love to have more men & women

join in on the fun!

RESOURCE GROUP

Join us on Thursdays at 9 a.m. for coffee, treats, friendship, & to do volunteer work! Tuesday November 23rd we will assemble

The Tidings due to the Thanksgiving Day Holiday.

TAU ALPHA

Meeting November 15th at 7pm

STITCH, SEW & QUILT

Our new Friday afternoon time seems to work out

favorably with the Stitch, Sew and Quilt group!

We will meet Friday, November 12th at 1:30pm in the Temple Room in the Sunday School area. Please bring any ―Show and Tell‖ items and a personal project

to work on.

We will discuss skipping December but continue to meet the second Friday afternoon of each month starting in January. Anyone interested is welcome to join us. Questions contact

Mavis Clark.

JOIN US AT OUR ST. JOHN UCC MEN’S

GROUP

We‘re having a great time! Come join us! We‘re not ―holier than thou,‖ nor is all the talk just ―God-

talk.‖ It‘s a wonderful blend of maleness, conversation, laughter,

the spiritual and the unspiritual.

Our next gathering is Saturday, November 6th at 8 a.m. in the

Temple Sunday School room. We meet until about 9:30 a.m.

Come check us out!

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CLOTHING ROOM

St. John UCC is working the FACC Clothing room

November 8th and 10th.

9-12 noon and 1-3pm

There is a sign up sheet on the bulleting board in the narthex or call the church and we will mark you down.

FACC PAS TA

It‘s that time again! FACC needs 250 boxes of pasta from St. John. The pasta boxes are put in the Christmas Baskets that FACC gives out to 250 families in the Freeport Area. There will be

a shopping cart in the Narthex for your pasta donations.

PRAYER SERVICE

November 10th at 5:30

Come and be part of a prayer time for Mental Illness Recovery and Understanding on November 10 at 5:30 in the Hearth Room. Prayers and actions of

faith communities are need to restore mental wellness in America. By seeking God's guidance, we can recommit ourselves to replacing misinformation, blame, fear and prejudice with truth and love in order to offer hope to all who are touched by mental illness. This is an ongoing ministry of our church. Please tell

others who might be interested.

O N G O I N G A C T I V I T I E S

BIB L E S T UD Y

We meet at 9 a.m. every Wednesday in the Library. We are studying the book, ―Grace in a Tree Stump‖ by J. Ellsworth

Kalas, come and join us.

CARD CLUB

Card Club will play on the first Monday of the month at 1:00pm.

PING PONG

We meet every Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. (the second week of the month on Tuesday) in the Game Room

(North Wing). We would love to have more men & women

join in on the fun!

RESOURCE GROUP

Join us on Thursdays at 9 a.m. for coffee, treats, friendship, & to do volunteer work! Tuesday November 23rd we will assemble

The Tidings due to the Thanksgiving Day Holiday.

TAU ALPHA

Meeting November 15th at 7pm

STITCH, SEW & QUILT

Our new Friday afternoon time seems to work out

favorably with the Stitch, Sew and Quilt group!

We will meet Friday, November 12th at 1:30pm in the Temple Room in the Sunday School area. Please bring any ―Show and Tell‖ items and a personal project

to work on.

We will discuss skipping December but continue to meet the second Friday afternoon of each month starting in January. Anyone interested is welcome to join us. Questions contact

Mavis Clark.

JOIN US AT OUR ST. JOHN UCC MEN’S

GROUP

We‘re having a great time! Come join us! We‘re not ―holier than thou,‖ nor is all the talk just ―God-

talk.‖ It‘s a wonderful blend of maleness, conversation, laughter,

the spiritual and the unspiritual.

Our next gathering is Saturday, November 6th at 8 a.m. in the

Temple Sunday School room. We meet until about 9:30 a.m.

Come check us out!

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SERVING

Being a servant of the church is a great way to get to know fellow members. If you’re interested in serving please call the church

office or fill out a pew card.

COFFEE HOUR

Coffee Hour is a time for fellowship. You may not get a reminder call when it‘s your turn to bring a treat, but please, if your name is on the list for this month, bring in about 3 dozen cookies, bars, mini muffins or you can bring fruit to share. Everyone enjoys the treats and the social time

together.

TAU ALPHA CHAIRS NOVEMBER

11/07– Laurie & Rick Ditsworth, Jim & Gwen Drew, Shirley Durrestein, Donnley & Sandy Dutcher, Bruce & Denise Dykstra, Tim & Lisa Ebbers, Kevin & Kirsten Eckert, Mary &

Arnold Eder, Holly Edler

11/14- Kim Evans, Susan Feagan, Tom & Melinda Ferguson, Jack & Diana Fox, Mary Frazee, Shirley Fritzenmeier, Clyde

Fruth, Melinda Fruth

11/21- Denny & Judy Garkey, Jack & Jill Gastel, Bonnie &

Russ Gennusa, Audrey Gianquinto, Maida Gimple, Steve &

Lorrie Gitz, Brad & Wendy Gusloff

11/28- Brian Hamon, Greg & Deb Hartman, Richard & Mary Heffner, John & Betty Heiden, Jean & Linda Heidenrich,

Diane Heilman, John & Nettie Hendren, Eunice Hildebrandt

RESOURCE WILL CHAIR IN DECEMBER

12/5- Keith & Cherryl Hinrichs, Sharon & Tom Hull, Steven Jennings, Sally Kahler, Connie Kaiser, Della Kirkpatrick,

Donna & Zael Klapp, Hugh & Sarah Knapp, Jeanne Koch

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GREETERS

November 7 – Kya Eckert & Rachel Bicksler November 14 – Dana Brill & Rosie Cosgrove November 21 – Ron & Beth Slade November 28 – Arnold & Mary Eder WELCOMERS November 7– Carol Ahrens & Joyce Bloyer November 14 – John & Betty Heiden November 21 – Diane Heilman & Marilyn Ruthe November 28 – Lee & Nancy Otte

NURSERY

November 7 – Tom & Melinda Ferguson November 14 – Dennis & Carla Meyer November 21 – Jill & Logan Kuntz November 28 – Clyde & Jeanne Cross

USHERS

11/07 Tim, Colin & Kristi Ebbers, Dennis Manus, Jim Drew

11/14 John & Paula Rawleigh, Phil & Barb Copus

11/21 Tom & Melinda Ferguson, Ray & Jeri Nieman,

Joyce & Wes Robinson

11/28 Lee & Nancy Otte, Jeanne Koch, Jane Krug,

Mike Smith

DRIVERS

November 7 – Jack Criddle 233-2304 November 14 – Mike Smith 297-9092 November 21 – Lucille Lee 232-5581 November 28 – Don Valkema 235-7395

If you are in need of a ride to church please contact the person designated for driving. If you are a regular pick up and not planning to

ride, please call the driver to let them know!

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LAST MONTH WORSHIP ATTENDANCE

10/03 - 177

10/10 - 147

10/17– 154

10/24 - 170

PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR PRAYERS

PRAYER CHAIN: Jackie Watson, Rita Witbecker, Betty

Carpenter, Michelle and Tyler Hand

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thank you so much for all your help in creating a truly upscale technological environment for our students at your facility. You have gone far above what is expected of a ―land lord‖ and it is greatly appreciated by all of us at this end! Our insurance inspector was unable to use one drop of red ink when he walked through in early Sept.; he had expected us to cover cords, not upgrade the electrical service. Thank you for making everyone

smile! - Sincerely Pat Maley, the Kids and staff at Career TEC

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thank you to everyone who helped with or attended Rally Day, especially the guys roasting the pig in the middle of the night! It was a great success and it is so wonderful to see everyone of all generations kicking off our fall Sunday School season together.– Thank you Christian Ed Ministry +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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LAST MONTH WORSHIP ATTENDANCE

10/03 - 177

10/10 - 147

10/17– 154

10/24 - 170

PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR PRAYERS

PRAYER CHAIN: Jackie Watson, Rita Witbecker, Betty

Carpenter, Michelle and Tyler Hand

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thank you so much for all your help in creating a truly upscale technological environment for our students at your facility. You have gone far above what is expected of a ―land lord‖ and it is greatly appreciated by all of us at this end! Our insurance inspector was unable to use one drop of red ink when he walked through in early Sept.; he had expected us to cover cords, not upgrade the electrical service. Thank you for making everyone

smile! - Sincerely Pat Maley, the Kids and staff at Career TEC

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Thank you to everyone who helped with or attended Rally Day, especially the guys roasting the pig in the middle of the night! It was a great success and it is so wonderful to see everyone of all generations kicking off our fall Sunday School season together.– Thank you Christian Ed Ministry +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

November Scripture Readings

01 Psalm 8 17 Psalm 66

02 Psalm 145 18 Psalm 67

03 Psalm 146 19 Psalm 84

04 Psalm 147 20 Psalm 95

05 Psalm 148 21 Psalm 96

06 Psalm 149 22 Psalm 97

07 Psalm 150 23 Psalm 98

08 Exodus 35:1-29 24 Psalm 99

09 Deuteronomy 26:1-19 25 Psalm 100

10 Malachi 3:5-18 26 Psalm 103

11 2 Corinthians 8:1-24 27 Psalm 107

12 2 Corinthians 9:1-15 28 Psalm 108

13 Psalm 46 29 Jeremiah 33:1-26

14 Psalm 48 30 Psalm 136

15 Psalm 64

16 Psalm 65

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ST. JOHN UCC COUNCIL MINUTES

October 11, 2010

Members Present: Perry Cowan, Carla

Meyer, Bruce Dykstra, Jeanne Cross, John Hendren, Ben Lee, Mary Arnold, Ulan Price, Bill Condie, Daryl Tessmann, Patty Weik,

Pastor Dutcher.

Members Absent: Lisa Ebbers

Meeting called to order at 6:30pm.

Pastor Donnley opened with a prayer.

Minutes from the September meeting were

approved.

Financial Report: After reviewing the treasurer's report, Carla moved to approve the report as submitted. Ben seconded. Motion

carried.

Janshen Estate Update: Pastor Donnley

discussed the need for Council and the Endowment Board to work together in defining "religious programs" as stated in the

bequest. Requests for money from endowment are generally approved by the Council and referred to the Endowment Board. It's important to define what "religious programs" encompasses and have parameters set for spending, prior to receiving any money from the estate. Perry

will attend the next endowment meeting to discuss this.

Proposed 2011 Budget Review: Revisited the discussion for hiring a part-time custodial staff person. Pastor Donnley talked to Stan and Bill, letting them know we want them to continue doing the work they want and are able to do. The job description for part-time custodial staff will be defined accordingly. The Council feels the addition of this staff person is necessary to ease the load on Bill and Stan, and because of the overall

PRESI DE NT Perry Cowan V ICE PRES I DE NT Daryl Tessmann SECRET ARY Patty Weik T REAS UR ER Ulan Price CHR IST I AN ED. Lisa Ebbers CHURC HGR OWT H & MEM BERS HI P John Hendren FELL OW S HI P Carla Meyer M ISSI ONS Bill Condie PROPERT Y MANAG EM ENT Daryl Tessmann Bruce Dykstra ST AF F REL AT I ONS Jeanne Cross ST EW AR DS HI P Ulan Price WOR S HI P Patty Weik Mary Arnold

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custodial demands of a building our size. We will use Hughes Resources for hiring this person. The position will be Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:30am-12:30am, with wage set at $10 per hour. Discussion followed over whether to add this to the proposed 2011 budget now, even though we don't have a timetable for hiring this person, though we hope to do that some time after the first of the year. Ulan moved we add this line item to the 2011 budget. Mary seconded. Motion carried. Bill moved to designate $7,500 for Part-time Custodian. John

seconded. Motion carried.

The addition of a part-time custodian will put us above the balanced budget we had originally planned to propose to the Stewardship Ministry. Whereas the Council desires to present a balanced budget, we cannot be certain it is truly "balanced" due to the fluctuation that can occur in our giving. This challenge resulted in much discussion. Bill moved to present an unbalanced budget to the congregation at our November 21st congregational meeting. Carla seconded. Motion carried with 9 "yes" votes and 1

"no" vote.

Property Management Updates: Property Management is

researching the possible installation of air conditioning in Chapel Hearth. More information will be presented at the congregational meeting on November 21. Bruce reported on the remodeling being done to the rental property. These upgrades are long

overdue.

Employee Handbook: Revised copies of the employee handbook were distributed. Council and the Staff Relations Ministry will review for a final draft which will shared with the staff

prior to final approval and implementation.

Missions Ministry: The Missions Ministry sent Carol Ahrens to the United Church of Christ Mental Health Network Annual Meeting. She made contact with Rev. LTC Peter E. Bauer, Chief, Marriage and Family Therapy Program, DEPT. of Social Work, Darnall Army Medical Center, West Fort Hood, Texas. Pastor Donnley has contacted the Endowment Board for possible funding, or the use of undesignated mission funds, to bring him here on February 4-6, to give up to three presentations. He has

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also requested to preach on Sunday morning.

"If The Church Were Christian" Discussion, Chapter 5

Meeting adjourned at 8:03 with the Mizpah Benediction

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

Beginning Balance January 1, 2010 $28,364.92 10/01 General Fund Beginning Balance $29,982.92

10/04 GF Income $7,505.72 10/11 GF Income $3,748.90 10/18 GF Income $4,606.10 Less 10/22 GF Payroll & Compensation $10,625.61 10/22 GF Other Checks $8,950.49 10/22 GF Current Bills Outstanding $1,841.73 10/22 Ending Balance $24,425.81 _________________________________________________ Beginning Balance January 1, 2010 $29,559.65 10/01 Building Fund Beginning Balance $20,651.12

10/04 BD Income $375.00 10/11 BD Income $245.00 10/18 BD Income $482.00 Less 10/22 BD Checks $1,934.50 10/22 BD Current Bills Outstanding $0.00 10/22 Ending Balance $19,818.62 _________________________________________________

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