ST. JOHN LUTHERAN CHURCH NEWSLETTER

Guided by Faith, Driven by the Promise, and Finding Strength

In each other as we strive to fulfill God’s Word.

Editors: Cheryl Bossard & Tammy Muller

Volume 1 JULY 2016 Issue 17

PASTOR: Harold McMillin 563-252-3006 or 563-880-5052

CHURCH COUNCIL President: Theresa Rodas Vice-President: Brad Hoth Secretary: Kelly Shaw Treasurer: Becky Fuelling CHURCH SECRETARY: Kelly Shaw FINANCIAL SECRETARY: Kelly Shaw & Brenda Hoth OUTSIDE JANITOR: Loren Scherf INSIDE JANITOR: Mary Beth Tielbar WELCA UNIT BOARD President: Becky Fuelling Vice President: Kathy Klinge Secretary: Brenda Hoth Treasurer: Sharon Henning Mission Action: Bev Moon Nancy Moon & Marlene Glawe MEN’S GROUP President: John Fuelling Vice President: Brad Hoth Secretary—Treasurer: Ryan Moon LUTHER LEAGUE President: Ryan Moon Treasurer: Carl Davis ALTAR GUILD Directress: Cheryl Bossard Secretary: Loretta Weipert Treasurer: Sonya Stagman St. John Lutheran 208 E. Washington St. Farmersburg, IA 52047 Church’s e-mail: stjohn87@neitel.net Church’s website: http://www.stjohn-farmersburg.org/ Remember to like St. John Facebook

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USHERS July 3 & July 10 Rod Stagman, Captain 536-2371 Bill Scherf III. 563-880-5204 Matt Goltz 539-4190 Justin Fuelling 783-2631 July 17, July 24, & July 31 Jason Klinge, Captain 783-2456 Ivan Meisner 536-2327 Harry Gerndt 563-880-2876 Matt Scherf 964-2240

GREETERS July 3 Jeff Klinge & Deb Tidwell 10 Heather, Elizabeth & Ali Crogan 17 Vernice & Bev Moon 24 Larry & Linda Friedlein 31 Harry & Darcy Gerndt

COMMUNION ASSISTANTS July 3 Sonya Stagman July 17 Ron Tayek

SUNSHINE COMMITTEE

Becky Fuelling Jeanne Meisner

ALTAR GUILD

Marlene Glawe Loretta Weipert

JULY ACOLYTES 3 Dacia Schoulte 10 Zoee Gerndt 17 Ashley Shaw 24 Dacia Schoulte 31 Zoee Gerndt

SCRIPTURE READERS 3 Kathy Klinge 10 Becky Fuelling 17 Shirley Marmann 24 Volunteer Needed 31 Volunteer Needed

JULY SUNDAY WORSHIP IS AT 10:00 AM

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SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS CONFERENCE MINISTRY NEWSLETTER Shepherd of the Hills will again be sponsoring our BACK TO SCHOOL 4 KIDS PROJECT. Our Give-Away Day will be Wednesday August 3rd, 2016 from 9 am to 3:30 pm. Last year we provided NEW school supplies plus NEW socks & underwear to 269 kids (112 families).

Donations of new school supplies, new socks & underwear (sizes Pre-school thru High School) to the

Shepherd of the Hills building at100 West Hill Street, Saint Olaf, Iowa by Wed, July 27th

. Monetary donations are welcome also, and may be sent to Po Box 36, Saint Olaf, IA. 52072. Those participating will need to bring a referral from a Clayton County Agency the day of the give-away. Shepherd services 8 school districts in Clayton County. Thank You for all the wonderful donations to this worthwhile project to help needy school children in Clayton County. Here is a list of some of the most common things required: spiral notebooks (wide and narrow ruled), scissors (Friskers or Crayola are best), pens (blue, red, and black), Elmer’s glue, glue sticks, rubber cement, pencils, erasers, 2 pocket & 3-hole punch folders, crayons (8, 16, & 24 in a box), school boxes, NEW BOOK BAG’S/BACK PACKS , highlighters, washable markers (both narrow & wide), dry erase markers, scientific & non-scientific calculators, loose leaf notebook paper, reams of computer/copy paper, black bound composition notebooks, 1”, 1 ½”& 2 ” 3-ring binders, 12 inch/centimeter wooden rulers, protractors, compasses, watercolor paints, colored pencils, zipper pencil pouches, index cards, journal note-books, 3x3 sticky notes, head phones or ear buds for computer lab, Flash Drives.

The expenses of utility bills, upkeep to the building, and the help we provide to our neighbors

keeps growing. We truly appreciate your past donations, but as the needs in our area continue to increase, S.O.T.H. is desperately in need of more help to be able to meet the growing needs. Please think of Shepherd of the Hills’ Operating Fund and Crisis Fund in your donations. THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!

COMING EVENTS

Closed July 4th ~~ Independence Day August 3rd ~~ Back To School give-a-way Jeff Krambeer, Director Shepherd of the Hills Cooperative Ministry 100 West Hill Street, PO Box 36 Saint Olaf, Iowa 52072-0036 Telephone: 563-783-2409/Fax: 563-783-2428 E-mail: shephill@neitel.net Hours: 9am-12 and 1-4 pm. Monday-Fridays

Remember to like Shepherd of the Hills Ministries on Facebook

Women of St. John are invited to join in the The Gather Bible Study @ St. John Lutheran Church/ Luana

BIBLE STUDY – “The Gather Magazine”

2015-16 TUESDAY, July 5th @ 1:30 pm “ALWAYS BEING Hostess: Grace Doerring MADE NEW” Intergenerational Bible Study Session:

By Angela Shannon, Pastor at King of Glory Lutheran Church, Dallas, TX

“Seeking God” (Jeremiah 29:14)

CLAYTON COUNTY FOOD SHELF During the Summer, the demands on the Food Pantry rise! The youth are now home eating their meals and the quantity is not there for them. When donating to the Food Shelf -- think of “Camping” for Homeless (this is for those who only live in tents and are homeless in Clayton County) – needs would be –

Peanut Butter – Jelly – Bread – Bottled Water – Cereal – Canned Dinners – Vegetables – Canned fruit, Spaghettios, Raviolos

ALSO CANNED ITEMS THAT DO NOT NEED COOKING – Canned Tuna – Chicken NON PERISHABLE ITEMS: Toilet Paper, Bars of Soap, Dish Soap, Paper Towels, Shampoo, Toothpaste,

Tooth brushes, Deodorant, etc. etc. $$MONETARY DONATIONS are most welcome. Make checks payable to St. John for credit on your Giving Record and in the Memo Line write – FOOD SHELF! MINISTRY CONTINUES THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER!

Sunday, July 10th 4:00 – 7:00 pm

Hope Lutheran Church, Littleport

MENU: Homemade Ice Cream,

Maidrites, Ham Sandwiches, Potato Salad, Baked Beans,

Cakes, Pies, Beverages

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Dear Friends in Christ:

God said “There will be days like that!” You might have to look far and wide to find that in scripture. But I think it might be something He would have said. Given the com-plaints that go up when things don’t go as we think they should, I would think that might be the short answer.

Maybe – 1). you had plans for the day and someone calls and it changes rapidly, 2). you want an important event to attend and get an illness that prevents you. 3). You want to pay off a big debt but the engine blows up on the car and it

needs to be replaced. Well, you get the idea.

It happens all the time, doesn’t it!

It happened for Jesus too. He took up people on their statements when they said: “I will follow you wherever you go.” (Lk. 9:57b) When he invited them they said:

“Lord, suffer me first go and bury my father.” (Lk. 9:59). “And another also said, I will follow thee, Lord; but first suffer me to bid farewell to them that are at my

house.” (Lk. 9:61)

>Jesus had planned to do a little praying and resting in peace --

but his disciples came to seek him and spoiled that idea. Their response says it rather clearly: \ “… Everyone is searching for you.” (Mark 1:37b) >Jesus had plans on going to Jerusalem. His disciples knew it would be dangerous with all the people stirred up and the religious leaders opposing him, so good ole’ bold Peter stepped up to confront Him and -- “began to rebuke him.” (Mark 8:32b)

>Have you stepped forward and said you would follow Jesus? Maybe in your Baptism or Affirmation of Baptism or some other special spiritual experience?

>How is the journey going? Like the man who wants to take care of his father. He would have been buried by now, what he is talking about is family obligations.

>Do they come first?

Like maybe a ballgame, camping, boating, sleeping in and getting rest because we are up so late on Saturday night?

We let a myriad of things get in the way of following the Lord. Jesus never promised it to be easy, as a matter of fact he said quite the opposite. He said “you will be hated by all for my name’s sake.” (Mt. 10:22a) So yes, there will be days like that. Yet the thing to do is hang in there for Jesus continued and said “He who endures to the end will be saved.” (Mt. 10:22b) It is kind of like enduring hot and muggy weather, knowing that cooler weather will come, eventually.

We must also remember what Jesus said to his disciples, especially Peter as he rebuked him, “ Get behind me, Satan; for you set your mind not on the things of God, but the things of men.” (Mark 8:33b) It all comes down to --

Where is our focus – on ourselves, or God? Even on those days when things are not going as we planned or hoped, when there are all those interferences, altering our plans, we need to ask:

Where is our focus?

God may be challenging you to new adventures, as our Lord was so often challenged.

Happy Trails! Pastor Harold

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JULY

God’s work. Our hands. As a social ministry organization of the ELCA, Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI) is so thankful for your partnership in ministry! We give special thanks for the many congregations making LSI the focus of

their “God’s work. Our hands.” projects.

Past “God’s work. Our hands.” projects have included donations of tools for dads enrolled in our early childhood programs, plus children’s books, towel bundles, school supplies and backpacks. LSI has also been blessed to receive “noisy” offerings, special offer-ings and proceeds from yard work or luncheons. Some Sunday School classes and youth groups have also encouraged youth at LSI’s Beloit and Bremwood Residential Treatment Centers through quilts and letters.

We thank you for your witness of God’s love and your service! If you are interested in ministering to those served by LSI and would like to know more about current needs, please contact Deb Whitford, LSI director of philanthropy and church relations, at debo-rah.whitford@LSIowa.org.

LSI is proud to be an affiliated social ministry organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Learn more at www.LSIowa.org and www.facebook.com/LSI.iowa

Finding Help and Hope

Bernie’s daughter-in-law walked into her house and set her new baby on the living room sofa. She told Bernie the baby was "a mis-take" and that she couldn't parent him. She never returned. At age 50, Bernie became a mom to her 2-month-old grandson, Bryce. Bernie's son—the baby's biological father—had medical and mental health issues that left him unable to care for the child.

When Bryce was young, he was diagnosed with ADHD, ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder), fetal drug and alcohol syndrome, men-tal retardation, and partial bipolar disorder. As he grew older, Bryce began to develop anger issues. Bernie knew he was struggling, so she reached out to LSI.

Soon, Bryce began receiving regular home visits from a Behavioral Health Intervention Services worker, who coached Bryce on an-ger management. Bryce also began seeing an LSI therapist.

Today, Bryce is 15 years old. He attends special education classes, and is doing wonderfully. When he is upset, he reaches out to his LSI therapist for help. Bryce still struggles with anger, but Bernie and his LSI support team work together to meet Bryce where he is.

"I want to thank each and every one of our workers from LSI," Bernie says. "They are doing marvelous work with him."

And thanks to LSI donors, Bryce receives the help, hope, and support he needs.

Financial Report – May 31, 2016 General Checking Balance – May 1 ….................. $ 7516.24 Credits …............................................................... 4992.00 Debits …................................................................. 6224.20 Balance – May 31 …............................................... $ 6284.04 The insurance on the church is due to Church Mutual on July 1, 2016 in the amount of $2032; this is the first installment with the remainder due on December 1, 2016. Will you prayerfully consider giving a little extra to help with this bill? The church thanks you! The final bill from Nu-Trend for the lift has been received: Per proposal, complete and installed …............. $27,145. Deposit received on account ….......................... (6,036) Balance due ….................................................... $18,109. In addition, is approximately $4875 due, which includes the remaining to the carpenter, electrician's bill, and steel ramp in the basement. When the inspection by the state is complete, the Probert monies will be withdrawn and the bills will be paid. Again, thank you to all who have donated to the Lift, it is greatly appreciated and the Lift will be a wonderful asset to our church in the years to come. Balance in the Lift account as of June 22, 2016 …......... $ 13,230.11 Becky Fuelling, Church Treasurer

WORSHIP ATTENDANCE

May 1 47

8 50

15 53

22 50

28 35

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Thank you to the following for sharing altar flowers. Bill Scherf Jr. & family in memory of Lafonda Scherf, Marlene Glawe & family in memory of Verdine Glawe, and Rod & Sonya Stagman in honor of their 25th wedding anniversary.

St John Church Council Meeting

May 11, 2016 The meeting was called to order by Theresa Rodas at 7:03 PM. Opening prayer was led by Pastor McMillin.

Present: Ron Tayek, Pastor McMillin, Sonya Stagman, Theresa Rodas, Brad Hoth, Justin Fuelling, Becky

Fuelling, and Kelly Shaw, along with members of St John Lutheran in Luana.

Motion to approve the April 13, 2016 council minutes was made by Brad. Seconded by Sonya.

Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report:

Motion to approve the treasurer’s report was made by Justin. Seconded by Brad. Motion carried.

Pastor’s Report: Joint Worships: August 7th at 9:00 a.m. Farmersburg will host; September 4th at 9:00a.m.

Luana will host. Fellowship to follow each service.

Old Business

Vertical Lift (Elevator): Finished! Waiting on inspection.

Window: Discussion held, Corey Wilker will be back to fix.

New Business

Extra Cleaning: Motion to pay inside custodian an extra $50.00 due to dust made by Ron. Seconded by Brad. Motion carried.

Tables and Chairs: Jamie Tielbar to use for wedding on July 16th. Benefit for Dallas Tielbar: Discussion held

Committee Reports and Assignments

Evangelism/Caring Spirits (Becky): None Parish Education (Kelly & Becky): VBS July 11-14th. Property (Ron, Brad, Justin): None Stewardship (Sonya, Justin): None Worship (Theresa Rodas) Meeting June 22nd at 8:00 P.M. Auxiliary Organizations

Luther League: Men’s Group: none Women of the ELCA: Women’s Group Synodical June 18th Memorial (Sonya): Purchased shell for Baptismal in remembrance of Dale Kurth

Adjournment Motion for adjournment was made by Brad. Seconded by Justin. Motion Carried. Meeting closed with the Lord’s Prayer at 9:20 pm. Next meeting June 8, 2016 at 7:00 P.M. Kelly Shaw, Church Council Secretary

May 15th Meeting after Worship Service: Present: Becky, Theresa, Brad, Ron, Kelly, Sonya and Pastor McMillin. Motion to Pay $3,000 to Corey Wilker for work done and the other $3,000 when elevator is finished made by Brad. Seconded by Sonya. Motion Carried.

COMBINED COUNCIL RETREAT St. John – Luana and St. John - Farmersburg

Sunday, July 10th @ Noon @ the Guttenberg Marina (south part of Main Street)

RSVP by Sunday, July 3rd to Pastor Harold of how many of your family will be attending. We ask that you bring a dish to share. Pastor Harold and Linda are providing the meat. Salad, Vegetables, Potatoes, Desserts are welcome.

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JULY BIRTHDAYS

Bible Day Camp Summer 2016

“The Jesus Way” Week of July 11-14 2016. Students entering 1st - 5th grades

EACH DAY’S SCHEDULE – Begins at 9:00 am and dismiss at 3:00 pm (Monday through Thursday) @ St. Paul Lutheran Church in Monona CLOSING PROGRAM - Thursday, July 14th the week will end with a closing program at 6:30 pm. Bring your Lawn Chairs!

Meet the Counselors at a Potluck Sunday, July 10th 5:00 pm @ St. Paul Lutheran

THEME VERSE: “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love,

as Christ loved us.” Ephesians 5:1-2

The birthday flower of July is the lovely Larkspur, which symbolizes carefree summer days, feeling light-hearted, and just having fun.