The MessengerThe Messenger ~ A Communication Ministry of Salem United Church of Christ ~ December,...
Transcript of The MessengerThe Messenger ~ A Communication Ministry of Salem United Church of Christ ~ December,...
The Messenger
~ A Communication Ministry of Salem United Church of Christ ~
December, 2019
Volume 65, Issue 12
We are God’s children called to seek, share, teach, and continue to experience the Word of God.
God is still speaking! This motto of the United Church of Christ reminds us that we do not worship a God who is distant, disinterested, or dead. We serve the great Creator who is active in our world today, even as he has been in times past. Scripture demonstrates the truth that God speaks to us in many ways, if we will only listen. God speaks to us through the glories of nature. God speaks to us through divine providence – the circumstances of our lives. God speaks to us through his people as we gather to worship and serve. God speaks to us through the still, small whisper of the Holy Spirit. God speaks to us through His written Word, the Bible. But there is one way in which he speaks to us above all others. The writer to the Hebrews begins his letter by saying: “Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds.” Today God continues to speak to us in “many and various ways,” but we will not be able to hear God speak if we do not embrace his greatest Messenger, his great Message, the Word become flesh, Jesus Christ. During Advent we celebrate the fact that God himself became flesh in
the person of Jesus. He is God's greatest revelation, and in him we find life. Do you hear God speaking? Do you feel God's presence with you? Or do you feel alone? Do you feel that you're searching for deep and rich and real connection that seems to allude you? Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, I invite you to join us at Salem as we hear God's voice, experience God's presence, and receive the eternal life that only Jesus Christ can give. God is still speaking. --- Rev. Jeremy
December 1 First Sunday of Advent Light the Candle of Hope 10:00 Worship with Communion
December 8 Second Sunday of Advent Light the Candle of Peace 10:00 Worship
December 15 Third Sunday of Advent Light the Candle of Joy 10:00 Worship / Choirs Cantata
December 22 Fourth Sunday of Advent Light the Candle of Love 10:00 Worship / Children’s Christmas Program
December 24 Christmas Eve Light the Christ Candle 7:00 p.m. Family Nativity Service 11:00 p.m. Candlelight Worship with Communion
December 25 Christmas Day 9:00 a.m. Worship with Communion
December 29 10:00 Praise Worship
Welcome Reverend Jeremy Reverend Jeremy R. Wood begins his ministry as Senior Pastor at Salem United Church of Christ. His first Sunday will be December 1, 2019. Join us in welcoming him to our church! Worship is at 10:00 a.m. Following worship, there will be a potluck for time to visit with Rev. Jeremy. The Men’s Fellowship will provide the meat and drinks; please bring a side dish and/or dessert to share.
“Giving Thanks” The first idea that I might join you for a few months came in late-spring after I received a phone
call from Carol Reckman, Council President. Our mutual friend, Shana Johnson, Illinois South Conference Minister, connected us in her work of playing behind-the-scenes matchmaker for our
Illinois South churches. After a visit to Alhambra and a conversation with Council leaders, we decided to commit to serving alongside you for the second half of 2019. Your pastor search committee in the meantime narrowed their search and focused on Pastor Jeremy Wood, whom you called as your
next pastor. He will begin on December 1 and I heartily cheer both you and him in finding one another for the living out of the faith together! My last Sunday with you will be November 24th, a
day which will include a Totenfest remembrance for those in our church who have died in the last year. I cannot begin to tell you how meaningful our time has been with you. Wanda and I both have deeply appreciated your warm welcome and the generosity you’ve extended to us. Wanda has
joined me on more Sundays than not, largely due to her feeling of kinship with you. Our time together has been an experience of healing for both of us after our previous pastoral
experiences. I am retired, but not completely. The life of an interim has different demands and a decidedly different rhythm. Thanks for allowing me to work with you all. We give thanks to God for your ministry and the community you’ve created, Rev. Keith D. Herron
Unwrapping Christmas
Read John 1:1-18 The season of Christmas and all
the displays will be a continual
reminder of a season that should
well be in the heart of every
Christian every day of every
year. Along with the festivities
planned are the giving of gifts. I
have witnessed the humor in a
gift wrapped by ascending
layers of containers, until the
recipient descends through the
layers of packaging to finally
receive the gift. It is an old and
familiar game in gift giving, but
suppose the game had merit as
to the true treasure of
Christmas? Suppose we had to
go through seven layers to get
to the true gift. Each layer
would have its only special
goodness. Maybe the visits of
family and friends, followed by
Christmas cards sent and
received, holiday meals in all
there sumptuous splendor, then
the games we watch and play
together, lights and tinsel,
Christmas trees newly cut with
the smell of pine tree
throughout the house, the
fireplace, the gifts, the caroling,
the shopping…sorry I surely
exceed the seven. Now we get
down to the final package. It is
the coming of Jesus, and yes,
He came as an infant. There are
reasons for all of it in the plan
of God. When we open that
final and true blessed joy of
Christmas, there may be a
stillness in our heart. Not about
anything heretofore mentioned
in all the other layers. Here we
stand, heart brimming with joy,
tears of gladness upon our
cheeks, for God has sent Jesus
to our world. Jesus came to save
me! Jesus came to save you!
Through the love of God in the
Holy Spirit, God is coming to
me and you every day. Not only
is that gift of Christmas and the
salvation which flows through it
the most awesome needful,
unmerited gift we could ever
receive, the gift is dynamic and
the love of God is shed abroad
on His people each day! All the
above layers of fluff, how
wonderful! As to the pristine
meaning of Christmas - WOW -
God came for me in Jesus
Christ His Son. The coming of
God’s love is everlasting. That
is a present to rejoice in every
day!
Merry Christmas, enjoy the
many layers, while being
forever enthralled with “Jesus
came for you, and is daily
coming for you!” --- Pastor
John
Imperfect Christians are Perfect Sometimes, I find myself overthinking. Well....let’s be honest. I overthink a lot! It’s hard for me to not think about every single little detail of every single situation. I know I shouldn’t and for the longest time, I couldn’t figure out why I did. And I finally realized, after years of making myself crazy, that I want perfection. Every detail of every decision, conversation, and
event runs through my head several times to make sure it all goes the way it should. However, this is not realistic. Or healthy! And I have come to realize that if life was supposed to be perfect, God would have made it that way. If we as humans were supposed to do everything right, then Jesus would not have had to die for our sins. Being Christian doesn’t mean we are perfect. In fact, it’s actually the opposite. We know we aren’t perfect and that is why we need God in our lives. We all know things that we have done wrong or the things that didn't go the way they were supposed to. That’s why we pray to God and ask for forgiveness. That’s why we go to church with hopes of finding guidance. So, if being Christian means we aren’t perfect, why do we put so much pressure on our youth to be perfect? Many times, we expect kids to know already what it took us to learn over several years, or our entire life. But, the thing is, the kids need to learn those lessons on their own, just like we did. What we can do to help is to remind them that they are perfect in our eyes and in God’s. Their imperfections are what make them human and Christians. We can help them not overthink or put too much pressure on themselves. Perfection is impossible. We should encourage kids to stop trying to be perfect. Instead, encourage them to feel comfortable asking God for forgiveness or asking for help when they need it. Imperfect children are the perfect children of God. ----- Becca
Exhale December Schedule Sunday, Dec. 1 - Adopt a Family Shopping (meet at the church
at 4. Should be back by 6:30) Sunday, Dec. 8 - Exhale 4-5:30 - Present wrapping (See blurb) Sunday, Dec 15 - Exhale Christmas Party 6-8pm Sunday, Dec 22 - Exhale Ushering in Church (let Becca know
if you will be helping) NO EXHALE Dec. 22 or 29
GIFT WRAPPING On Sunday, December 8, Exhale will be offering their wrapping services for donations to our mission trip fund. All kids are encouraged to be here so we can wrap as many presents as possible! Also - kids should sign up to bring the following items: a roll of wrapping paper, a bag of bows, a package of tape, or name tags. Please let Becca know what you would like to bring.
From the Music Director….
On the last Sunday of each month, all
children will have an opportunity to play
Krystal Bells in church. Please join us.
Help Fill the Choir Loft for Christmas
We are looking for a few more voices to fill our choir during the Christmas season. This is a chance to join us for the Christmas season. Practices are Wednesday nights at 7:30. If you are interested please see Dawn.
In taking a respite from meetings over November-
December, Stephen Ministers will be sending
ministers to all the residents of the two nursing
homes in Alhambra over the holidays. Additionally,
we will take care that visits are made to any of our
members that are in other nursing homes or have
trouble getting out. We are asking each member of
Salem to be challenged over the holidays to make a
visit to someone who would not expect you to visit
them. Merry Christmas and God bless you all from
Salem Stephen Ministers.
From the Food Basket Committee
The Food Basket Committee thanks all that participated in the giving of the baskets this year. Over 2500 items were collected; 12 Thanksgiving baskets were assembled and distributed; the recipients were very appreciative!
Pictures below and to the right of Salem members and community sorting food and making food baskets.
On Sunday, November 10, our Sunday School classes learned about helping others by doing community service. The older class had the option to either rake leaves, or make Thanksgiving cards for the residents at Hitz Home. The boys chose to rake leaves (they got 8 bags). The girls made Thanksgiving cards and helped the younger class make cards.
Sunday, December 22
We will be practicing for the Christmas program on Sunday, December 15 during Sunday School. We will also be having a practice on Wednesday, December 18. Come at 5:30 and have a hotdog. Practice will begin at 6:00. We should be finished by 7:30. If you have any questions, please see Emily Uhe, Patty Uhe or Dawn Reinhardt.
Christmas Gift Shop
The Board of Christian Education will be sponsoring a Christmas Gift Shop on Sunday, December 15, following worship. The Christmas Gift Shop is for all children through 5th grade. An item for each member of a child’s family will be given to that child at no cost. If anyone would like to donate new or gently used items for the Christmas Gift Shop, the Board of Christian Education will graciously accept. The Board of Christian Education would like to have any donated items by Sunday, December 8.
72nd Annual Sausage Supper
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2020
SERVING FROM 2:30 P.M. TO 8:00 P.M.
MENU:
FRESH HOMEMADE PORK SAUSAGE
Sauerkraut Potatoes Gravy Green Beans Applesauce Bread Dessert Coffee Milk
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Sausage Supper Committee Chairs:
Purchasing: Vernon Uhe Processing: Lawrence Henschen
Lewis Knackstedt Kitchen: Dave Renken
Brian Duncan Rhet Mansholt
Dishwashing: Jill Verson Fryers & Setup: Leon Uhe
Dennis Conrad Jim Reagan Greg Reinhardt
Sausage Sales: Vernon & Linda Uhe Charlie Brown
Carry-Out: Bill & Carol Reckman Jim & Dagmar Annable
Tables: Joe Dauderman Dean Korsmeyer
Advertising & Ticket Sales: Laverne Korsmeyer
Ron Schmidt Seating: Justin Bonnell
Michael Dauderman Jerry Frank
Public Relations: Rev. Jeremy R. Wood Carrier (Thursday): Gene Templeman Sausage Carriers: Christopher Uhe
Bryce Knackstedt Aaron Uhe
Elevator: Delmar Korsmeyer Ron Mindrup Kenneth Suhre Parking: TBD Processing Dates: January 22, 2020 January 23, 2020 Supper Date: January 25, 2020
2019 SALEM CHURCH COUNCIL:
President Carol Reckman
Vice-President Judy Zimmerman
Secretary Sharon Capstick
Treasurer Ron Schmidt
Financial Secretary Emily Uhe
Jerry Frank Nancy Heidbrink
Derik Payne Jerri Riechmann
Steve Roper Shane Stille
Nancy Zweck
The Pastor/Parish/Personnel Relations Committee
The Pastor/Parish/Personnel Relations Committee (PPPRC) is always ready to hear ideas and suggestions. If you have a concern that you feel is not being addressed, please feel free to contact a member of the PPPRC. All concerns expressed will be held and addressed in confidence. Please refrain from contacting staff members at home.
2019 PPPRC members are: Dagmar Annable / Justin Bonnell Ann Frank / Jessica Iberg
Sherri Korsmeyer / Jerri Riechmann
From The Men’s Fellowship
& Women’s Guild
Next Meeting of the Men’s Fellowship & Women’s Guild There will be a meeting on December 19, 2019 at 6:30 p.m.
(Christmas potluck)
December Golden Agers
Ethel Hosto on December 5 Alice Stille on December 13
Edith Kaufman on December 18
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Reflections is Moving to Monday Mornings! Reflections is moving back to Monday mornings! Come join us at Maedge’s on Monday mornings at 10:00 a.m. to have a cup of coffee, discuss the sermon, read scripture together, and talk about whatever is on your mind.
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E-Messenger
Did you know that you can receive
The Messenger by email? The Salem E-
Messenger is a delivery system where you
would receive The Messenger by email
instead of regular mail. To sign up for the
Salem E-Messenger, please email the
church office at [email protected]
Salem Wire
The Salem Wire is an email message
delivery system where you would receive
notice of events and happenings in the
church. To sign up for the Salem Wire
distribution list, please email the church
office at [email protected]
Online Giving
• To give online, visit http://salemuccalh.org/
• Select “Online Giving” / Click “Create Your Online Profile”
• Enter your email address / Confirm your email address / Enter required information
• Choose “add transaction” / Designate contribution amount, frequency, and start date
• Choose account type, routing number and account number / Choose “process”
• Note: You may change your contribution at any time.
Livestream
Salem Church uses Livestream to
broadcast our worship services.
• Go to https://livestream.com/ accounts/10389497
• Click on the black and white picture of
the church “Live and Upcoming
Events”, and you will either see the live
broadcast of the worship service or you
can look for archived services (by date
on the right).
• To view an archived service,
click on the date of the
archived service you want to
view (listed by date on right).
Did You Know? A Christmas tree at the German church was the best for
several years. A large number of presents were
distributed. What was the year and what was the
responsibility of Mr. Jacob Gehrig and Mr. Ochs? Answer: The year was 1889 and Mr. Jacob Gehrig and Mr.
Ochs looked after the little ones.
Pecan Sales
The Women’s Guild has pecans for sale after worship or you may contact the office. They are $11/pound and are halves or pieces.
Salem UCC received a thank you from Hitz Home for donation of $425.
Thank you to our church family for your love and support during
this most difficult time in the loss of our beloved Nick. Megan and Jack Sauer Jerry, Ann and Madison Frank
Big thanks to all who helped make 245 pints and 48 quarts of the
best Hitz Memorial Home Apple butter you will ever taste! We had many men and women help. The residents also loved with helping and watching the two day process! The Hitz Auxiliary strives to help the residents at Hitz Memorial Home with their many wants and needs by having fundraisers and this apple butter project throughout the year. So keep posted for upcoming events that will help. Thanks, Hitz Memorial Home Auxiliary Cindy Henschen, Chairman of Apple Butter Project
Hitz Memorial Home Auxiliary thanks all who helped raise funds
for the Premier Jewelry fundraiser. We received a check from Lynn Rutz in the amount of $285 that will go towards an AED kit for the residents. We appreciate your help in making their wishes come true. Thanks, Hitz Memorial Home Auxiliary Cindy Henschen, Fundraiser Chairman
Exhale would like to thank everybody who participated in this year’s
Food Basket Scavenger Hunt. We had over 15 houses for the kids to stop at! Total, we collected 421 items to donate to Salem’s Food Basket program. And the kids had a blast! Thank you for supporting Exhale and the Food Baskets.
Turkyfest 2019 was awesome! Thank you to everybody who
purchased tickets and joined us for a delicious meal and great fellowship!
Thank you to everyone at Salem for the Maedge’s gift card in
honor of my five years as your Music Director. The past five years have been wonderful, working with so many talented people. I look forward to many more years with you. Thank you, Dawn Reinhardt
Salem UCC Office Hours:
Tuesday – Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you are sad or struggling inside, do not
suffer alone. Ask for help. We have a team of
Stephen Ministers who are ready to listen,
care, encourage, pray, and Stephen Ministry
by talking with one of our Stephen Leaders
listed below. Our Stephen Ministers are there
to care!
Pastor John Mindrup: (C) 618-409-3941
Betty Imboden: (C) 618-973-0572
*************************** The Warm Line is for persons with mental health challenges and their families to receive support by phone. Peer and Family Support Specialists are professionals who have experienced mental health recovery in their own lives as an individual or family member. They have been trained in recovery support, mentoring, and advocacy and are ready to listen and help you. The warm line is not a crisis hotline, but is a source of support as you recover or help a family member to recover.
Illinois Warm Line 866-359-7953
Messsenger Dates
Messenger Articles due December 16
Messenger Assembly
Thursday, December 19 - 10 a.m.
Totenfest: A Service of Remembrance On Sunday, November 24, we celebrated Totenfest at our 10:00 a.m. worship service. Totenfest is
the day on which we pause to remember those who have died in the past year.
Salem remembered these friends and family: Elinor Hall Stille
(04/19/1932 – 12/05/2018)
Wayne Stille (06/17/1926 – 12/30/2018)
Electa Leitch
(10/14/1914 – 01/31/2019)
Ginny Gehrig (04/05/1937 – 02/17/2019)
Heather Potthast
(08/17/1988 – 04/15/2019)
Velma Henkhaus (07/11/1935 – 02/23/2019)
Nina Volz
(08/16/1932 – 06/09/2019)
Anita Suhre
(02/18/1932 – 07/06/2019)
Virginia Schuerman (03/19/1935 – 07/07/2019)
Hilbert Klenke
(05/22/1926 – 07/22/2019)
Verna Klenke (07/10/1926 – 02/04/2019)
Nick Sauer
(08/27/1989 – 10/08/2019)
Vernon Otto (05/18/1928 – 11/17/2019)
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Acknowledgment of Honorariums of Remembrance
December, 2018 – November, 2019
Chuck Bloemker Salem Building Fund
Luella Boedicker 108th Anniversary of Birth Salem Memorial Fund
Dan Dauderman Salem Building Fund
Esther Faulke 104th Anniversary of Birth Salem Memorial Fund
Carl & May Hosto Salem Endowment Fund
Elmer & Roberta Korsmeyer Salem Endowment Fund
Henry & Frances Korsmeyer Salem Endowment Fund
Danny Lee Reinhardt Salem Memorial Fund
Dexter Riechmann Salem Building Fund
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Acknowledgment of Honorariums
December, 2018 – November, 2019
Lorene & Lewis Knackstedt’s 60th Wedding Anniversary Salem Memorial Fund
Larry McGee’s Retirement Salem Memorial Fund
Bob Mindrup’s 99th Birthday Salem Memorial Fund
Florence Neminch’s Birthday Salem Memorial Fund
Marine Area Veterans Salem Bell Choir
Acknowledgment of Gifts & Memorials
December, 2018 – November, 2019
Reverend Jerry Amiri Guitar Strap
Doug Bizer Replacement Chime
Vicki Conrad Courtyard & Sidewalk
Ginny Gehrig Salem Memorial Fund
Music Program
Instrument Music Book
Wayne Gentry Replacement Chime
Velma Henkhaus Salem Memorial Fund
Chancel Choir
Gloria Henschen Courtyard & Sidewalk
Hilbert Klenke Salem Memorial Fund
Electa Leitch Last Supper Costumes
Richard Scheller Courtyard & Sidewalk
Virginia Schuerman Salem Memorial Fund
Elinor Hall Stille Salem Memorial Fund
Choir Music
Salem Music Program
Wayne Stille Salem Memorial Fund
Anita Suhre Last Supper Costumes
Al & Betty Volz Courtyard & Sidewalk
Nina Volz Salem Memorial Fund
Carillon Music
Betty Whitworth Courtyard & Sidewalk
Undesignated Courtyard & Sidewalk
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2020 OFFERING ENVELOPES Be sure to check the passageway for your 2020 offering envelopes, which are coming soon!
Please contact the church office…. • If there are no envelopes with your name on
them, and you wish to receive the envelopes; • if you would like your envelopes mailed out to
you; • if you no longer wish to receive the envelopes.
A friendly reminder to everyone
(especially all committees) that Salem’s
Annual Meeting is coming up soon
(February 2, 2020). Please start
preparing your committee’s summary
and treasurer’s report (if your
committee has one) for the past year.
Be of Service to Others……
TOY DRIVE Community Hope Center supplies food, clothing, household supplies, spiritual care and other services to families in need all year round. One of the ways we at Salem can help meet the needs of our community is by housing a Toy Barrel to support Community Hope’s Toy Drive. Place new, unwrapped toys for all ages and genders in the barrel, which will be in the hallway by the Mission Board starting October 31 through December 10. Parents who use the services of Community Hope Center are able to select toys from the toy drive to give to their children for Christmas.
The Christmas Fund for the Veterans of the Cross and the
Emergency Fund is one of the four special mission offerings
of the National United Church of Christ. This special
offering provides direct financial assistance to retired and
active United Church of Christ authorized ministers and lay
employees and their surviving spouses, including pension and
health premium supplementation, emergency assistance,
and Christmas thank-you checks. We will receive the
Christmas Fund Offering on December 22.
In December, funds received in the
“Christmas” envelopes will be donated to Hoyleton Ministries. The Hoyleton
Ministries are dedicated to helping all people realize the quality of life that God
intends. Their staff provides compassionate care to thousands of children who have,
through no fault of their own, entered the child welfare system. Your donation helps
to provide the resources necessary for the Hoyleton Ministries to care for the most
vulnerable members of our communities.
Worship Ministry Schedule
Date Acolyte(s) Greeter(s) Liturgist Nursery Ushers
December 1 (10 am)
Brooke Hunsche Tyler Hunsche
LaVerne Bloemker
Katie Frank
Gale Bolen Reese Bolen
Donna Yates / Ken Suhre Denise Grandame
Dean & Sherri Korsmeyer
December 8 (10 am)
Koy Ketcham Brandt Mansholt
Jim Annable Adam Eyman
Haley Basler Sydney Basler Taylor Ernst
Confirmation Class
December 15 (10 am)
Grace Ouart Alison Brase
Anita K. Cain Laura
Muench
Emily Uhe Patty Uhe
Shirley Gall / Richelle Braundmeier Shannon Hogg / Becca Braundmeier
Cindy Henschen / Jordan Braundmeier
December 22 (10 am)
Adam Eyman Cooper Eyman
LaVerne Bloemker
Cooper Eyman
Patrick Stille Emily Stille
Exhale Youth Group
December 24 (7 pm)
Need Volunteers
Need Volunteer
Patty Uhe
--- Bill & Carol Reckman
Dave & Ronna Renken / Tess Renken
December 24 (11 pm)
Brandt Mansholt Volunteer
Need Volunteer Irving Gray
---
Laverne Korsmeyer / Laura Muench Justin & Melanie Bonnell / Paige Basler
December 25 (9 am)
Need Volunteers
Need Volunteer Emily Uhe
---
Lewis & Lorene Knackstedt Steve Stille / Sue Liefer / Ken Gehrig
Patrick Stille
December 29 (10 am)
Katie Frank Lia Braundmeier
Jim Annable Dagmar Annable
Gale Bolen Reese Bolen
Donna Yates / Ken Suhre Denise Grandame
Dean & Sherri Korsmeyer Worship Schedule
Date
Scripture Readings Worship Leader
December 1 – 10 a.m. Worship with Communion
Esther 4:1-17 / Isaiah 2:1-5 / Matthew 24:36-44 / Romans 13:11-14 / Galatians 4:4-7
Rev. Jeremy R. Wood
December 8 – 10 a.m. Worship
Isa 11:1-10 / Ps 72:1-7, 18-19 / Rom 15:4-13 Matt 3:1-12
Rev. Jeremy R. Wood
December 15 – 10 a.m. Worship
Isa 35:1-10 / Ps 146:5-10 or Luke 1:47-55 James 5:7-10 / Matt 11:2-11
Rev. Jeremy R. Wood
December 22 – 10 a.m. Worship
Isa 7:10-16 / Ps 80:1-7, 17-19 / Rom 1:1-7 Matt 1:18-25
Rev. Jeremy R. Wood
December 24 – 7 p.m. Family Nativity Service Isa 9:2-7 / Ps 96 / Titus 2:11-14 / Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) Rev. Jeremy R. Wood
December 24 – 11 p.m. Candlelight Worship w/Communion Isa 9:2-7 / Ps 96 / Titus 2:11-14 / Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) Rev. Jeremy R. Wood
December 25 – 9 a.m. Christmas Day Worship Isa 52:7-10 / Ps 98 / Heb 1:1-4, (5-12) / John 1:1-14 Rev. Jeremy R. Wood
December 29 – 10 a.m. Praise Worship Isa 63:7-9 / Ps 148 / Heb 2:10-18 / Matt 2:13-23 Pastor John Mindrup
Communion Schedule for Hitz Home
December 1 – 10:00 a.m.
Cherie Kuhn
If you would like someone to be on the prayer list, please contact Pastor Jeremy or the church office. Names listed on the prayer list will not carryover from month to month.
Congratulations to
the Newlyweds
Adam Dale Allen and Kimberly Melissa Anders were married
by Rev. Keith Herron on November 2, 2019. Adam is the
son of Rick & Patty Allen.
Our Sympathies to the Family of:
Vernon Otto
Who died on November 17, 2019
SALEM CHURCH COUNCIL - November 14,2019
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carol Reckman, Emily Uhe, Steve Roper, Ron Schmidt, Nancy Zweck, Shane Stille, Sharon Capstick, Judy Zimmerman, Nancy Heidbrink and Rev. Keith Herron. EX-OFFICIO STAFF: Kerri Reilson CALL TO ORDER: by President Carol Reckman at 7:00pm DEVOTION: Rev. Keith Herron led us with an opening devotion. PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES: Motion by Judy Zimmerman, 2nd by Ron Schmidt to accept the previous meetings minutes as printed. Motion Carried. TREASURER’S REPORT: Motion by Nancy Heidbrink, 2nd by Emily Uhe to accept the Treasurer’s Report. Motion Carried. OUTSTANDING BILLS: Motion by Nancy Zweck, 2nd by Steve Roper to pay the outstanding bills, Motion Carried. INTERIM PASTOR’S REPORT: Rev. Herron reported that confirmation is going well. He reported that Pastor Jeremy will take over the confirmands on December 4. OLD BUSINESS: Motion by Judy Zimmerman, 2nd by Ron Schmidt to recommend the proposed changes to the Constitution be presented at the 2020 annual meeting for adoption. Motion Carried. NEW BUSINESS: Motion by Nancy Heidbrink, 2nd by Shane Stille to approve Pastor Jeremy to continue to record his sermons and place them on Ambassador. Motion Carried. Table discussions in reference to the Church’s anniversary for 2020 until Pastor Jeremy is at the meeting. Motion by Emily Uhe, 2nd by Nancy Heidbrink to pay the fees for the 2-day clergy retreat for Pastor Jeremy from the general fund. Motion Carried. Motion by Judy Zimmermn, 2nd by Nancy Zweck to pay the fee for the History & Polity on line course for Pastor Jeremy from the general fund. Motion Carried. Motion by Judy Zimmerman, 2nd by Nancy Zweck to purchase a gift certificate from Maedges for Dawn Reinhardt’s 5 year anniversary. Motion Carried. Motion by Nancy Heidbrink, 2nd by Ron Schmidt to adjourn to executive session to discuss the salaries line item for the 2020 budget. Motion by Ron Schmidt, 2nd by Judy Zimmerman to adjourn from executive session. ADJOURNMENT: Motion by Nancy Heidbrink, 2nd by Shane Stille to adjourn the meeting at 8:25 pm. Motion carried and ended with the Lords’ Prayer. NEXT MEETING: December 12, 2019 at 7pm. Blessings, Sharon Capstick
2019 MESSENGER BOX SCORE
October YTD
GENERAL FUND
Offering - $13,681 $164,752
Expenses - $20,543 $168,197
Difference - $(6,862) $(3,445)
Other Income i.e. facilities rental, etc. $10 $6,259
Net change-Operations $(6,852) $2,814
BENEVOLENCE
OCWM - $180 $2,441
Other Benevolence - $224 $6,821
Total - $404 $9,262
Historical Committee - October 22, 2019 The meeting was called to order by Chair, Jayne Korsmeyer Roper; who thanked Pastor Keith for meeting with our committee. Our committee invited Pastor Keith to meet with us in order that we might get his input, in general, with respect to the work of our church’s Historical Committee. Pastor Keith commended our committee on our current Historical Cabinet Display of Baptismal Certificates. Pastor Keith explained to us that though we may think of an Historical Committee as one which deals with the past, it also has the potential for growth impulse. As an example, he used Salem’s 160th Anniversary, coming up next year, in 2020, as an opportunity through which to serve in this capacity. Pastor Keith said that even though 160 years may not be as monumental as 150 or 200 years, it is still an important milestone which our church could acknowledge and celebrate. A discussion was held regarding the possibility of combining this with a Confirmation Reunion. For 2020, the Confirmation Reunion was going to be for the years ending in 8, 9, and 0; however, if combined with our church’s anniversary, a churchwide Confirmation reunion was suggested, in order to include everyone. Pastor Keith told us that during his interim at our church, he has found our congregation to be a “healthy” congregation; and, so, at this turning point in the life of our church with a new pastor, an event such as this could be very good. The meeting was adjourned after brainstorming possible details of the proposed 160th Anniversary/Confirmation Reunion. A fall celebration is being considered, as this would give the church more time for planning; but, also, our church’s first service was held in the fall.
Property Committee Minutes – November 4, 2019 North driveway widening bill from Maedge’s received. Complete cost $4950, paid by Churchmen’s Fellowship. Parsonage garage and white shed mold removal started; machine problems. Window pane still needs attention in church. Water and air filters in church furnace completed. All other filters done. New hand-held vacuum for church purchased. Work on repairing accidental hole in church wall – Larry will complete. Budget discussed. Will return to office with minor changes. Ceiling tile in Parish Hall discussed – will check to see if this is moving forward or may need to make different arrangements. Some bushes around premises have been trimmed. Discussed items to be printed in the annual report. Front church doors and sill to be adjusted when Vision Committee completes renovations in front of church.
Board of Christian Education Minutes – November 7, 2019 Patty Uhe called the November 2019 meeting of the Board of Christian Education to order with 9 members present. Those in attendance were: Paige Basler, Rebecca Braundmeier, Sharyn Gieseking, Pastor Keith Herron, Mary Reinhardt, Emily Uhe, Lorene Uhe, Patty Uhe, and Jill Verson. Pastor Keith Herron led us in a prayer. Patty Uhe reported that in October, Preschool averaged 5 out of 8 students, Kindergarten through 5th grade averaged 7 out of 20 students, 6th grade through 8th grade averaged 10 out of 19 students, the Youth averaged 3 out of 19 students, and the Adults averaged 8 out of 10 students. The Salem Seekers Curriculum Committee’s next planned meeting is January 21. Joye Brase has stepped down as the teacher of the Youth Sunday School class. Haley Basler, Darrin Reinhardt, and Laura Renken will teach the Youth Sunday School class in her absence. Rebecca Braundmeier stated that Youth Sunday is on November 10. TurkeyFest will be on November 24, and Exhale is starting to sell tickets. The Exhale Christmas Party will be on December 15. Pastor Keith Herron reported that he and Pastor John Mindrup are sharing the duties with Confirmation and that there are 14 students in the Confirmation class. Pastor Keith Herron stated that he and Pastor John Mindrup are looking for another helper with the Confirmation class, preferably a female, since Joye Brase had to step away. Pastor Keith Herron reported that Pastor Jeremy Wood came to the recent Thirtysomething gathering on November 2. The Trunk or Treat Committee reported that 18 businesses and organizations participated in the Alhambra Community Trunk-or-Treat on October 26, from 10:00-1:00. The Alhambra Community Trunk-or-Treat is planned for Saturday, October 24, 2020, from 10:00 to 1:00, with a rain date of Sunday, October 25, 2020, from 1:00 to 3:00. The Holiday Food Baskets and Giving Tree Committee reported that Scouting for Food is November 16. The Holiday Food Baskets Committee stated that so far, the committee will be preparing 13 baskets. The Giving Tree Committee stated that so far, the committee has received two names from Hoyleton, two names from Uni-Pres Kindercottage, and a family from the Highland Area Christian Service Ministry. The Christmas Eve Program Committee reported that the Christmas Eve Program will be on Sunday, December 22, at 10:00 in the sanctuary. The Christmas Gift Shop will be on Sunday, December 15, during Sunday School for students attending Sunday School and following worship. The Board of Christian Education closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Salem UCC Treasurer's Report - Month ending October 31, 2019
Current Activity
YTD Activity
Beginning General Fund Balance 74,366.03 62,426.57 Offering-Loose
4,283.01 67,298.01
Offering-Envelopes
7,409.00 79,177.98 Offering-On line receipts 1,989.49 18,276.44 Facility Use Donations
- 3,560.00
Miscellaneous Receipts - 2,603.33 Interest Income-General Fund 9.81 95.65 Benevolence Received 404.14 9,262.72
Total General Fund Income 14,095.45 180,274.13
Salaries
11,289.59 94,045.99 Employee Benefits
974.66 9,149.70 Maintenance/Property Services 1,942.13 15,663.95 Insurance
3,379.50 15,230.00
Utilities
1,949.27 17,459.61 Supplies-General
518.03 7,525.66
Professional Expense
519.68 2,268.70 Miscellaneous
651.48
Search Committee
- 405.98 Worship
- 2,010.34
Christian Education
(88.29) 2,154.15 Evangelism
- 602.46
Stewardship
46.35 633.16 Pastoral Care
11.90 395.95 Benevolence Paid
1,789.71 8,374.62
Total General Fund Expenses 22,332.53 176,571.75
Ending General Fund Balance $66,128.95 $66,128.95
Beginning Memorial Fund Balance 24,250.17 23,124.32 Memorials received
- 13,569.67
Honorariums received
- 340.00 Miscellaneous Receipts 40.00
140.00
Memorial Fund Expense: Miscellaneous-plaques; postage - (398.00)
Worship (music)
(1,335.82) Memorial projects-courtyard
(11,150.00)
Ending Memorial Fund Balance $24,290.17 $24,290.17
Building Fund Balance
40,856.13 42,145.25 Building Fund Offering
425.00 5,385.13
Memorials received
100.00 Building Fund Expense: Parsonage improvements-painting (354.80) (3,356.05) Parish Hall-men's restroom flooring (1,448.00) Grounds-rock/expand driveway (1,900.00)
Ending Building Fund Balance $40,926.33 $40,926.33
Sabbatical Fund Balance - no activity 13,086.30 13,086.30 Contribution from Men's Fellowship
Ending Sabbatical Fund Balance $13,086.30 $13,086.30
Endowment Fund Beginning Balance 62,324.64 62,274.64 Interest Income
Memorials-Endowment Fund
50.00
Endowment Fund Disbursements:
Interest Distribution-General Fund
Interest Distribution-Benevolence
Ending Endowment Fund Balance $62,324.64 $62,324.64
Beginning Investment Fund Balance 92,520.38 88,741.81 Change in Market Value (203.84) 7,574.73
Scholarships Paid
(4,000.00)
Ending Investment Fund Balance $92,316.54 $92,316.54
Beginning Mission Matching Fund Balance 118,735.89 106,105.38 Change in Market Value 1,006.93 12,999.35
Donations/Fundraising for Ecuador trip
Donations-mission projects
910.28
Mission Fund Disbursements:
Donation to Mission (LUNCH Bunch)
Mission Projects
(272.19) Mission Match distribution (2017)
Ending Mission Matching Fund Balance $119,742.82 $119,742.82
Beginning Reserve Fund Balance 22,337.54 22,214.52 Interest Income-Reserve Fund 13.94 136.96
Ending Reserve Fund Balance $22,351.48 $22,351.48
Other Restricted Fund Balance – no activity 1,709.11 1,709.11
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Salem United Church of Christ 1117 West North Street Alhambra, Illinois 62001 Phone: 618-488-3215 Fax: 618-488-3212
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Rev. Jeremy R. Wood, Senior Pastor Pastor John Mindrup, Assistant Pastor Kerri Reilson, Office Coordinator Becca Braundmeier, Youth Director Dawn Reinhardt, Music Director
The Messenger ~ A Communication Ministry of Salem United Church of Christ ~
Church’s Email: [email protected] Web Address: www.salemuccalh.org
Would You Like
Home Communion or a Visit
From Reverend Jeremy?
If you would like or know of someone who would like home communion or a visit from Reverend Jeremy
in your home for conversation and prayer, please contact him to schedule a time.
Church – 618-488-3215 / Cell – 618-580-8129
Email – [email protected]
NON-PROFIT ORG.
BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID
ALHAMBRA, IL
PERMIT NO. 2