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In this issue:
Pastor’s Letter 1
Director’s Cut/
Vicar’s Letter
2
Serving the Lord This
Month
3
Birthday & Church News 4-5
Stewardship Notes 6-7
News Letters 8-12
Gym Policy 13
Financial Secretary’s Report 14
Treasurer Report 15
Calendar 17
Special points of interest:
Letters from the Pastor,
Vicar, and CEL Director.
February Birthdays.
All the latest news from inside the church walls about the groups of your
interest.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of East Moline, IL February 2015 Volume 57, Issue 6
"Faith without deeds," God tells us, "is dead." Consider your own life. In what ways have you lived like Ivan the Terrible? Have you committed yourself to looking intently into the perfect law of God and continued in it for the sake of your Savior, or have you ignored it? Have you, like Ivan, expected God to accept and bless the evil things you have done? Have you in some small way tortured or killed others in thought, word or deed? Have you wrapped yourself in your church membership, like a monk's robe, in an attempt to fool God? If the answers to these questions leaves you looking frighteningly similar to old Ivan, I urge you to flee again to the cross of your Savior. Jesus offers you the robe of his own righteousness. It is not a robe that fools God, but one that pleases Him. Claim, by faith, the bruises upon his holy head, because they have accomplished far more for you than all your self-inflicted blows of ritualistic repentance. Look intently at Jesus and see the perfect law of God already fulfilled for you. Through him you have freedom to be a child of God and to live like one. There are many people, like Ivan who want to claim a faith without works. Do not let yourself become one of them. Instead, in the power of the Holy Spirit, let God manifest Himself through you. Say to anyone who asks about what it means to be a Christian, "I will show you my faith by my works." In Christ's love, Pastor Umbarger
The season of Epiphany is not only about God manifesting Himself to the world through Christ. It is also about God continuing to manifest Himself to the world through us. How do you think we are doing with that? Let us use an example Ivan the Terrible. He was undoubtedly the most cruel and vicious Czar that had ever lived. Nevertheless, he still considered himself to be a good Christian and heir of heavenly blessings. Ivan tortured thousands of citizens, indulged in long drunken periods, and had seven wives. After each wild affair, however, he would make ritualistic atonement by throwing himself down before the altar. Sometimes he would even bruise his forehead by hitting the stone chancel. He believed that since he was the divinely chosen "Christian" ruler of Russia any of his acts, no matter how terrible, were acceptable to God. Ivan's violent temper and cruelty seemed to be life-long. As a child he amused himself by throwing cats and dogs off high roofs. When it was rumored that one of his cities was thinking of defecting to neighboring Lithuania he exterminated it. He tortured its citizens for five weeks and killed 60,000 people. He even killed his 27 year old son in a fit of anger by striking him in the head with an iron staff. On March 18, 1594, Ivan died. Following the custom of Russian rulers, it was declared that he had died a monk. His head was shaved and he was placed in monk's robes for burial. It was fully expected that God would be fooled and Ivan would enter heaven with a monk's status. Through the epistle of James the Lord teaches us that Ivan, and any of us who call ourselves Christian without the accompanying fruits of faith, are only deceiving ourselves.
From Pastor’s Desk:
Page 2 February 2015
A C.E.L. Production
From Vicar
“THE BIBLE” When most people talk about the bible or mention the bi-ble, it would be safe to assume we are all talking about the same thing. To us Christians, we would say it is more than just a book, it is God’s Word speaking to us. This is how He communicates with us today, through His holy Words, this would be a safe assumption in my eyes. Sadly assumptions can be wrong and if you think your friends or family understand what the bible really is, I challenge you to have a discussion on this topic. Around Christmas time Newsweek published an article called the bible. The author of this article is not a theological scholar, he discusses how the bible that we have is not the real bible. He gives history and details about the bible that are true, but when dis-cussing facts he weaves in his own opinions about what he thinks of the bible and the original text. He argues that manuscripts have not survived the test of time and in no way do we have the real bible. He also brings up the point that the bible was written well after events that have taken place. This is where I need to step in and correct some errors and general thinking of people like this. You will see this general think-ing on scripture in other Christians. The Christian Church is indeed older than the Holy Scripture, that is, older than the written Word of God. Until the time of Moses, God called His Church into existence and preserved it by His oral Word. But a time came when God had chosen to transmit His Word in writing. There are many guesses on why God would want His Word in writing, so let us leave the reason-ing up to God and believe that “ all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for in-struction in righteousness…”(2 Tim.3:16) We read elsewhere that
“For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit .”(2 Peter 1:21) People knew that the Bible was the actual Word of God through the work of the Holy Spirit, it was copied and re-copied with painstaking care and attention to detail, letter by letter, word by word. Though today we no longer possess the actual, original text of the Bible, we can be certain that the Holy Spirit has preserved the Word of God for us. Careful study of the many thousands of copies of the New Testament reveals that though there are minor differences between various copies, there is no place where any key teaching of the Bible is contradicted. Yes, people will attack the Bible, they will attack its authen-
ticity and the words found on the pages, but we know that we can
believe. For Jesus said, “The Scriptures testify about me”(John 5:39).
If we believe in Jesus, why not believe what he says about scripture.
What a blessed gift the Holy Scriptures are to us and to all people!
Everything God wants us to know about Himself is contained in His
Word. Truly, God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light for our
path. For that reason we pray, “Lord, keep us steadfast in your
Word.”
Vicar Harriss
The year is flying by so fast, and the kids are learning so many amazing things! This month we will have a Valentines Dance, get vision and hearing checked, as well as continu-ing our journey through the Bible and the Alphabet! We also need to ask that if you would like to borrow equipment from us (CEL) or from Childs World that you please ask. Both groups are willing to share but many things are be-ing used without permission, and not always making it back to where it belongs. This in-cludes all the gym equipment in the supply/storage room and the materials in the locked gym cabinet. The board of youth will be purchasing a ball rack and a variety of balls for general church use. This will be kept in the gym cubby hole under the west basketball hoop. These are the things that can be used by any member and/or group in the gym in-stead of the things in locked areas. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. If there is something you would like to borrow (scooters, hula hoops….) this also includes the lami-nator and die-cut machine just ask [email protected] or call the office at 792-0755. This should help us keep track of the equipment.
Page 3 The Informer
Ushers
February 1: Terry Dugan, Bill Vallee, James Vrban, Brian Rossmiller, Kevin Ross miller, Tanner Rusk, Alena Rossmiller, Han nah Rossmiller, Cody Rossmiller & Jacob Rossmiller February 7: George Fellows, Mark Brault & Vern Sletten February 8: Terry Dugan, Bill Vallee, James Vrban, Brian Rossmiller, Kevin Ross miller, Tanner Rusk, Alena Rossmiller, Han nah Rossmiller, Cody Rossmiller & Jacob Rossmiller February 14: George Fellows, Mark Brault & Vern Sletten February 15: Terry Dugan, Bill Vallee, James Vrban, Brian Rossmiller, Kevin Ross miller, Tanner Rusk, Hannah Rossmiller, Cody Rossmiller & Jacob Rossmiller February 18: Ash Wednesday 12:00 - Esther Cashion 6:30 - Vernon Sletten February 21: George Fellows, Jim Moews & Vern Sletten February 22:Terry Dugan, Bill Vallee, James Vrban, Brian Rossmiller, Kevin Ross miller, Tanner Rusk, Alena Rossmiller, Han nah Rossmiller, Cody Rossmiller & Jacob Rossmiller February 25: Vernon Sletten February 28 George Fellows, Jim Moews & Vern Sletten
Fellowship Callers
February 1: Jim & Brenda Haneroff February 8: Bill & Doris Park February 15: Kevin Verschoore & Bali Guerrero February 22: John & Kay Iwen
Greeters
February 1: Dorothy Tribbett, Ann Engebrecht & Candace Sountris February 7: Norm & Orene Antolik * Marlene Fellows February 8: Jim Beswick, Earl Schaefer & Margie Schaefer February 14: William & Doris Byles & Gail Massey February 15: Lynn Suess, Kristine McAnally & Marsha Boarts February 18: Ash Wednesday 12:00 - Esther Cashion 6:30 - Ann Engebrecht February 21: Helen Carter, LouAnn DeRammelaere & Marlene Fellows February 22: Earl Schaefer, Joyce Walker & Cora Whipple February 25: Dennis & Margie Schaefer February 28: Chris & Diana Caldwell & Duane & Nancy Gosa
Acolytes
February 1: Mallory Hawkins February 7: James Hinman February 8: Peyton Mattly February 14: Trevor Keogh February 15: Allison Antolik February 18: Adam Homann February 21: Sam Nelson February 22: Owen Hawkins February 25: Noah Cobb February 28 Marissa Keogh
Serving the Lord This Month:
Thank you for your service!!
Altar Guild Orene Antolik Marsha Boarts
Eternal Candle
February 1: Altar Guild February 8: Dennis Hurley - In honor of kids & grandkids February 15: Ron & Denise Rogers - In memory of Jeff & Jan February 22: Lynne Suess & Ann Cobb - memory of Chase
Flower Chart February 1: Altar Guild February 8: Lucille Perley - Thanks for God’s blessings February 15: Ron & Denise Rogers- in celebration of wedding February 22: Lent No Flowers
Openings for Flowers
May 17th, 24th, & 31st June 14th July 5th
Openings for Eternal Candle
March 8th & 15th May 3rd
June 21st
Page 4 February 2015
Date This year Last Year Sunday School Received
12/28/14 186 219 16 $11,054
1/04/15 145 148 25 $5,965
1/11/15 213 274 29 $6,685
1/18/15 250 218 26 $5,818
Simply giving $1,860 Average monthly giving for St. John’s 27%
Membership Report
Baptism and Confirmed Confirmed Profession of Faith Death
John Johnson Dawn Johnson Stephanie McKay Harold Roggendorf
12/14/14 12/14/14 12/21/14 12/18/14
Weekly Attendance & Offerings
February 1: Leah Weber & Stacie Greene
February 4: Chad Gosa, Aaron Homann, Devon Hurley, & Carole Krouth
February 5: Lois Deal, Samantha Hansen & Steven VanRycke
February 6: Shari Hess, & Doris Park
February 7: Margo Blaser, Diana Caldwell, & Cynthia Christopher
February 8: Ralph Grotelueschen, Larry Ripka, & Tyler Rusk
February 9: Loretta Nielsen
February 10: Cora Whipple
February 12: Lucille Perley
February 14: Sam Kupresin, Alyssa McAnally, & Alyssa Myers
February 15: Alena Rossmiller
February 16: Ethan Sountris
February 17: Barbara Veskauf
February 18: Betty Streeter
February 21: Patty Krack & Virginia Lackey
February 22: Zachery Chellew, Charlotte Geis, Mallory Hawkins, Brian Nielsen, & Isaac Stone
February 24: Ryan Dosch
February 26: Caleb Engebrecht
February 27: Fred Krack, & Rex Newmann
February 28: Larry Oltmann & Dennis Schaefer
Birthdays
Church News
Page 5 The Informer
Church News
Ladies of the congregation:
How about curling up with a good book for a few weeks?
Starting Monday, February 9th at 6:30 we will start a discussion
on the book “The Family of Jesus” author is Karen Kings-
bury. This is a fictional book that introduces us to the people
closest to Jesus. We will meet every 2 weeks to give everyone
time to finish each chapter so we can then have a group discus-
sion when we meet again. Join us and read and imagine the Bible
like never before. .
LWML
St. John's LWML will meet February 26 at 6:30 p.m.
Hostesses are Ramona Oltmann and Lee Copeland.
Devotions will be given by Diana Lackey, and the program
will be His Overflowing Love. Through May we will be
collecting items for hygiene kits to be assembled on the
Summer Mission trip. Please bring Women’s deodorant for
the month of February.
Year-end Statements
2014 year-end statements are now available to be picked up in the Concourse. Please take yours, along with your 2014 offering envelopes. (Don’t forget to throw away your 2013 envelopes).
Youth News
CYF/LYF will meet on February 8th at 2:15pm at The River’s Edge,
Davenport for ice skating fun. Cost is approximately $10.00 Check Face-
book for any changes. Sign up on Library counter
St. John’s Lutheran Ladies Aid will beet on February 5th, 2015 at 1:00 pm in the Janssen Rooms. Hostesses will be Ann
Engebrecht and Ramona Oltmann. Judy Belan will do a program on St. John’s library. Please come and join us for some
Christian Fellowship.
Ladies Aid
“Be merciful as your Father in heaven is merciful” (Luke 6:36). The word for mercy that Jesus uses
here has a more concrete meaning than what we typically associate with mercy. It means more than just
being kind. It means to be concerned about your neighbor’s state and well-being. Thus, Jesus taught
that we are to care, to be concerned about our neighbor’s state and well-being even as our Father in
heaven cares for and is concerned about our state and well-being.
How has our Father in heaven cared for our state? How has He shown His concern for our well-being?
How has He showered this mercy upon us?
He gave of Himself. He sent His only-begotten Son in human flesh, to become one of us—a man—and
to suffer all that we suffer and to endure what we endure—a fallen world full of sinful people,
temptation, the attacks of the devil, and death. He took upon Himself what rightfully belongs to us—sin
and death—in order that He could give to us what rightfully belongs to Him—righteousness, purity,
eternal life, and victory over the temptation of Satan and this fallen world. That is how He cared for our
state. That is how He was concerned for our well-being. He entered into our state for the sake of our
well-being, died in our place, rose for our justification, redeemed us to make all things new. He entered
our state so that by water and His Word we would be granted entrance into His state as children of our
Father in heaven. In other words, He had empathy toward us, which resulted in true sympathy.
Jesus, therefore, calls the church to empathy and sympathy for her neighbors. “Be merciful even as
your Father in heaven is merciful.” He asks the church to give of herself, to enter into her neighbors’
state for their well-being. And the church gives of herself the only thing in her that is worth giving. As
the Body of Christ, she gives Christ to her neighbors. She gives out the same mercy that she has
received. She gives the mercy that the heavenly Father poured out upon her through the sending of His
Son. And she does it through the preaching of the forgiveness of sins in Word and Deed, in Word and
Sacrament. For this is how the church lives—in the forgiveness of sins received in the means of
grace—and, therefore, this is what the church does. What else can she do?
And since this is how the church lives and what the church does, this is likewise how Christians live
and what Christians do. That is why giving to the church is so important. It ensures that the
proclamation of the forgiveness of sins in Word and Deed continues. It ensures that our neighbors’
state and well-being is cared for and attended to. It ensures that our neighbors have access to our
heavenly Father’s mercy just as we have received it here in time for all eternity.
Therefore, I say, let us be merciful even as our Father in heaven is merciful.
Page 6 February 2015
Stewardship Notes
Page 7 The Informer
Stewardship Notes
Iglesia Evangélica Luterana Cristo Rey
Christ the King Lutheran Church 1301-19th Street, East Moline, IL 61244
E-mail: [email protected] (309) 755-4757 Rev. Pablo Domínguez
Page 8 February 2015
Cristo Rey extends a sincere thank you to all who helped in any way in 2014 to further
the Gospel ministry to the Hispanics here in the Quad Cities!
Please continue to pray in 2015 that God’s Word will go forth from this church
and accomplish that which He desires; the saving of many.
Las Posadas as an Evangelism Resource.
Las Posadas, in addition to being a reenactment of Mary and Joseph looking for
lodging in an inn, has a variety of applications and lessons for the Christian life.
While the practice of this tradition has become very secularized, it remains a
wonderful tool for use in the church. It is one way of preparing for Jesus our
Savior’s coming, and is also a reminder that this event should be awaited with
great joy. When the time for Jesus’ birth drew near, Mary and Joseph were unable
to find lodging. Likewise, the world into which Jesus entered did not recognize
Him as the Messiah. Even today much of the world does not recognize Jesus, who
comes knocking, desiring a place in each of our hearts. Las Posadas provides an
excellent opportunity to reinforce the Gospel message of Jesus, born as a baby,
come to earth as our Redeemer. Las Posadas also provides opportunity to explore
the themes of welcoming the stranger and serving our neighbor in need.
In addition to serving as a celebration for the faithful Christian, Las Posadas can be
an excellent tool for Christian outreach in the community. The pilgrimage and the
accompanying party provide opportunities for churches and individuals to invite the
community and their neighbors to the church or into their homes to share a time of
celebration and joy. Las Posadas provides churches and individuals an amazing
opportunity to connect with Hispanics in their communities in a culturally relevant,
non-threatening way. Hosting Las Posadas provides an opportunity to teach the
Gospel message of Jesus’ birth as our Savior, connect with those in the community,
and enjoy a time of celebration with family, friends, and neighbors.
CR members went to celebrate Las Posadas at St. John’s, Beardstown, IL. on Dec.
6. It was a great experience for all (please read Pastor Evenson and Vicar
Guillidge’ articles)
Cristo Rey celebrated Las Posadas on Sunday, December 21st, at St. John’s gym in
East Moline. St. John’s choir opened this event with Christmas songs. CR members
and prospects helped with Christmas songs, games for the children, piñatas and
gifts for all. Around a hundred people accepted our invitation to attend the event.
So many thanks to all who make possible this enthusiastic event. We pray that the
Gospel message fell on good ground in the hearts of all who heard it at both
Beardstown and East Moline!
January 2014
Page 9 The Informer
FIRST POSADA
By Rev. Douglas Evenson
St. John's Lutheran Church in Beardstown held their first Posada from 2:00-8:00pm on Saturday, December 6, 2014. We had
friends from a sister church, Christ the King Lutheran Church, in East Moline come to Beardstown to help. They are very dear
fellow Christians. We had a good number from our congregation, and many Latino people from our community with their
children attend the event. There was plenty of good food, the most delicious hot chocolate, prizes for both adults and children,
games and piñatas', and more. Our dear brother, Pastor Pablo Dominguez gave a homily. And a choir from Christ the King
Lutheran sang. We had many new faces from our Latino community thank us for hosting such an event for them.
By Vicar Jason Guillidge
On December 6, 2014, a group of members from Christ the King Lutheran Church joined some members of St. John’s to
celebrate the Christmas Posada with individuals from the community of Beardstown. It was a rewarding experience for all who
attended this event. The one-hundred or so participants enjoyed activities, such as: a Christmas video, a worship service, food,
refreshments, games, and piñatas. When looking around the gymnasium, you could see people of all different ages enjoying
themselves with big smiles on their faces. After weeks of preparation, the Posada came together to make one remarkable
memory. This event is one that I will look back upon fondly years down the road as I remember my year as a vicar. We, here at
St. John’s, would like to thank Pastor Dominguez and his congregation for leading us in worship and activities. Have a blessed
Christmas and a happy New Year! Here are a few pictures:
Page 10 February 2015
Page 11 The Informer
Winter Greetings from Lutheran East Side Mission,
Soon we will be entering the season of Lent and are reminded of God’s gift to us year round. Although our lives
become busy throughout the year, knowing that God is never too busy for us is the greatest blessing of all. Of
course, it can be a challenge for us in getting our friends, co-workers and even our own families to recognize how
important our faith is. But God cares for all of His children equally and yet has individual plans for each one of
us. No doubt there will be questions as to what directions God has planned, but by sharing our faith through
encouragement and outreach to others we will help to unite people under one God. We are grateful that God’s
plan for Lutheran East Side Mission is exemplified through you and your prayers.
The year 2014 provided ample evidence that our gracious and giving God has plans for Lutheran East Side
Mission. Many prayers were answered and endless blessings were celebrated. The Mission was blessed with
having the Summer Fun Program for nine weeks including in July when 25 of our children enjoyed attending a
three day mini camp at Grace Lutheran in Dewitt, Iowa. Thank you to Grace Lutheran and the many kind and
caring Christians who sponsored our children. We enjoyed a day out at the Licht farm and, as always, can’t wait
to return. Through Vacation Bible School, Our Savior Lutheran, Bettendorf, collected boxes and boxes of school
supplies for the Mission children. Once again, as in former years, Our Savior Lutheran Church and Preschool
held a can drive in November and collected toiletries, paper products and canned goods to fill the Mission pantry.
In December Immanuel Lutheran Church, Davenport, hosted an afternoon Christmas party for the children. The
event offered free Christmas shopping, gift wrapping, lunch, and games including a 5 pm Worship Service
followed by a family pot-luck. Thrivent Financial through the program “Action Team”, along with Roy & Jan
Hagen paid for most of the cost associated with the event. The East Scott County Chapter of Thrivent Financial
purchased Christmas gifts for every child who attended the Christmas party. Donations for the children’s free gift
shopping were given by members of Immanuel, Park View Lutheran and St. Paul Lutheran, Bennett. Thank you
to the volunteers who helped the children shop and wrap.
The year 2014 was one filled with endless opportunities for Mission and Circuit related events. Private donations
and sponsorships from our Circuit churches provide what is needed for the Mission to have our doors open for
Sunday morning Worship service at 11:30, the After School Program is Monday - Thursday 3:00 - 5:00, the
Summer Fun program is offered during summer break, Youth Group meets weekly, the Ladies' Group with Bible
study meets the 2nd and 4th Mondays 6:30 - 8:30 and the ESL Classes meet several times during the month. If you
would like to volunteer at the Mission please contact our office at (563)323-6812. Thank you to Debbie Hartman,
Our Savior Lutheran and Elyssa Luckinbill, Pastor Anderson's Step-daughter, for
volunteering at the After school/Summer Fun Program. Our greatest needs continue to be on Sunday mornings,
we desperately are seeking van drivers for Sunday mornings, Sunday school teachers and Christian friends who
will pray with us and for us.
Take advantage of the gifts God has given you and share your talents with us this year. “The things which are
impossible with you are possible with God.” LUKE 18:27
God’s Blessings
Page 12 February 2015
POLICY: USE OF GYM/JANSSEN ROOMS
DEFINITION OF USER
A. Member of congregation
B. Nonmember of congregation
DETERMINATION OF COMPENSATION
A. Any St John’s Lutheran Church group or member may use facilities free of charge.
B. Any nonmember individual or group may use facilities with preapproval and a fee of $150 with
an additional fee of $50 for custodial purposes.
C. No member of St John’s Lutheran Church may reserve the use of the facilities for a nonmember
person/party so as to forgo the fee of usage.
GUIDELINES
A. Use of facilities will be requested through the office secretary using the approved forms and will
be approved/denied by Trustees. Pastor has the final determination when there is an issue.
B. Priority will be date requested, but may not be reserved more than 60 days in advance for non-
church functions (excluding weddings).
C. Responsible person or group using the facilities will show proper respect for the entire facility
and leave the building and items therein in good order.
D. There will be no renting of any facilities to anyone during church services.
E. This policy will be reviewed and updated as necessary by the Board of Trustees.
F. No groups or activities will be allowed that violate, or give the appearance of violating, the
scriptural and confessional standards of the congregation as outlined in Article III of our
constitution. For this reason final approval of all requests for using church facilities rests with the
pastor.
G. All items belonging to CEL and It’s A Childs World are NOT to be used by members and/or
nonmembers who are using these facilities. This includes the laminator and die-cut machine.
Their property is for their use only.
Page 13 The Informer
St. John’s Policy: Use of Gym/ Janssen Rooms
Page 14 February 2015
Financial Secretary’s Report
Page 15 The Informer
Treasurer’s Report
Page 16 February 2015
WORSHIP SERVICES: Saturday — 6:30 p.m.
Sunday— 9:00 a.m.
SUNDAY SCHOOL & BIBLE CLASS: Sunday — 10:15 a.m.
Worship Times
St. John’s in Winter Snow
1450-30th Avenue
East Moline, IL 61244
Tel: 309-792-0755
Fax: 309-792-0776
E-mail: [email protected]
St. John’s
Lutheran Church
of East Moline,
Walking in the Light of Christ!
We’re On the Web!! www.stjohnsem.org
