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Nonprofit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Omaha Nebraska
Permit No. 862
5220 S. 159th Ave
Omaha, NE 68135
Weddings, Marriage and Homosexual Chris!ans:
Discerning God’s Heart
September 13, 20, 27, and Oct. 4
Sunday School will be at 9:00AM, ONE Worship Service 10:10 AM,
There will be discussion groups at 9AM, A"er the Service, and during the week
while we are in this sermon series.
Matthew 22:36-40New American Standard Bible (NASB)
36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And He said to him, “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR
SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ 38 This is the great and [a]foremost commandment. 39 The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS
YOURSELF.’ 40 On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.”
A MESSAGE OF HOPE “LOVING GOD, LOVING OTHERS, LIVING IN GRACE””
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF HOPE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SERMON TOPICS
Megan Kenny 9/1
Sue Pennington 9/3
Molly Davis 9/5
Brooke Kenny 9/8
Joe Washka 9/8
Lila Zimmermann 9/9
Cyndie Eichler 9/11
Dick Corwine 9/12
Jayne Molacek 9/13
Keith Roumph 9/13
Larry Rudesill 9/13
Heather Roberts 9/13
Richard Eichler 9/17
Sco! Gunderson 9/18
Sydney Miller 9/19
Jack Lininger 9/19
Levi Richter 9/22
Troy Kaup 9/23
Karter Stroyek 9/23
Gary Phillips 9/25
Paul Richling 9/25
Montana Thomas 9/25
Edrie Pearce 9/27
Wayne Fry 9/29
Karen Griffin 9/30
Zoey Schmit 9/30
SEPTEMBER 2015 –VOLUME 9
· September 6, 2015
“The Power of One”
Acts 8: 26-39
Communion Sunday
· September 13, 2015
“Sodom, Vegas, Omaha, Hope”
Genesis 19: 1-11 Ezekiel 16: 44-54
One Service 10:10 AM
· September 20, 2015
“The Levi!cus Holiness code:
Does it s!ll Apply”
Levi!cus 18: 1-24
One Service 10:10 AM
· September 27, 2015
“ Paul Swings and....?”
Romans 1: 18-2:1
One Service 10:10 AM
Hope II will meet September
11, 2015 at noon. Gordon &
Marleen Gunderson and Beanie
Huston will be the hosts for the
day. To get back in to the swing
of things they are doing a 911
Patrio#c theme. Jewel Schiener
Sings will provide a vocal music
program. We have hosts for
September and October, and are
in need of hosts for Nov through
May. A sign-up sheet will be
available at the Sept mee#ng.
All are welcome.
Siena Francis Women’s Shelter –Quarterly Women’s Retreat
My Grandmother always used to say “GOD doesn’t make junk”. I s#ll believe that today. We are all
born into this world pure and innocent. Some of us have lived privileged lives while others have
been dealt a bad hand out of the deck of life. God allows us to make decisions during our life#me.
Some are good and some are not so good. Some of the women at the shelter are there because
they are in a program either to get off drugs or alcohol or maybe they have been evicted from their
homes and can’t find an affordable place to stay. For whatever the reason, these women may be in
a low place at this #me of their lives. A'er much discussion with Pa!y Cunningham from Siena Francis, instead of
monthly Birthday Par#es, we are going to try a quarterly Women’s Retreat for the women at the shelter. We would
like to make it inspira#onal and at the same #me show the women how important The Lord is in our lives.
Our first retreat will be Saturday, September 12th
. During our #me with the women (1 hour to 1-1/2 hours in
Inspira#onal Study and discussion with the last ½ hour playing Bingo with prizes), there will be another separate room
provided for their children where we will have some type of entertainment for the children. We have a need for
women who would like to help with the retreat and also women or families that would like to help with the children.
Please prayerfully consider helping with this program. Cheryl Sisk will be in charge of the first retreat so please call her
at 402-659-5344 or email her at [email protected].
We know that not everyone may feel equipped to evangelize, but I leave you with a quote from Ken Baugh, Pastor of
Coast Hills Community Church in Alison Viejo, California, “Just remember, God doesn’t call you as a Chris#an to save
people, just to sow the seed of the gospel. And as you do, the Holy Spirit will do the rest of the work, drawing people
into rela!onship with Jesus Christ in dynamic ways.”
New Born Baby Needs at the Siena Francis Shelter New Born Baby Needs at the Siena Francis Shelter New Born Baby Needs at the Siena Francis Shelter At this #me there are three New Born Babies (2 boys and 1 girl) at
the Shelter and another one on the way. They are in need of some new items for these new born babies. Below is a
suggested list of the things that they could use. There will be a basket in the Narthex. Thank you so much.
Baby Wash Baby Thermometer Nasal Aspirator Baby Bo#les
Baby Lo!on Sleepers Baby Washcloths Baby Socks
Baby Powder Nail Clippers for Babies Baby Towel Onsies
Comb & Brush Receiving Blankets Sleep Sacks for Baby Burp cloths
Newborn Diapers Bassinet Sheets Binkies (that clip on) Baby Blanket
Siena Francis House Thank You cards Siena Francis House Thank You cards Siena Francis House Thank You cards An on-going volunteer ministry that you can really get your HANDS into….wri#ng
thank-you notes at Siena-Francis House. On-site training is provided at no cost! We have a wonderful group that helps
out and conversa#on is always lively and entertaining. Those helping out in August were Kathy Andersen, Connie
Hursh, Nancy Binns, John & Toni Bonaventura, Avis Kelley, Georgia Bulger and Janie Botsch. Help is greatly
appreciated with! Please contact Janie Botsch at [email protected] - and you will be put on the email list.
Siena Francis House Meal Serving Siena Francis House Meal Serving Siena Francis House Meal Serving Hope Church has a once-a- month ministry of serving meals at Siena Francis House
– we are scheduled (nearly) every 1st
Saturday of each month. Time invested is only a few hours (4 pm-7 pm) and the
sign up sheet is located in the Narthex on the side table. What could be easier? Please sign up to help serve….it is such
a worthwhile project and one that our church has embraced wholeheartedly! AND if you are interested in you and
your family, friends or small group taking over a month (all by yourselves), please contact Cheryl Sisk at 402-659-5344
or email [email protected] to find out details. Our next meal to be served will be October 3rd
, so sign up to help
out! Those serving for August were Kathy Andersen, Roy Andersen, Ken Anderson, Ruby Thornwall, Mark Canady, Dale
Brewer, Avis Kelley, Evere! Kelley, Judy Klostermeyer, Sydney Miller and Tony Miller.
MISSIONMISSIONMISSION Submitted by Brian Claus Submitted by Brian Claus Submitted by Brian Claus
1
6:00 PM Music & Worship Meeting
6:30 PM Buildings & Grounds Committee
6:30 PM Fellowship Committee
7:00 PM Children's Ed Committee
2
Millard South football Pasta Feed
6:30 PM Mission Committee
3
10:00 AM Bible Study
6
Communion Sunday
YMCA
7
Labor Day
Marcos Pizza Paybac Night
8
10:00 AM Quilt Club
6:00 PM Omaha Grizzlies BB
9 10
Millard South football Past Feed
10:00 AM Bible Study
1:00 PM Card Group
11
Patriot Day
Hope II @ Noon
12
YMCA
6:30 AM Men of Hope Bible Study
9:00 AM Tai Chi
13
Sunday School- All YMCA
10:10 AM One Service
14
6:00 PM Omaha Grizzlies BB
6:30 PM Youth Committee
15
6:00 PM Omaha Grizzlies BB
6:30 PM Session Meeting
16 17
10:00 AM Bible Study
Millard South football Past Feed
18 19
YMCA
6:30 AM Men of Hope Bible Study
9:00 AM Tai Chi 10:30 AM Trolley Tour
20
YMCA
10:10 AM One Service
21
6:00 PM Omaha Grizzlies BB
6:30 PM Women’s Retreat Meeting
22
6:00 PM Omaha Grizzlies BB
23
First Day of Autumn
24
Millard South football Pasta Feed
10:00 AM Bible Study
1:00 PM Rachel Circle
25
8:00 PM Confirmation Lock-In
26
YMCA
6:30 AM Men of Hope Bible Study
9:00 AM Tai Chi
27
YMCA
10:10 AM One Service
28
6:00 PM Omaha Grizzlies BB
29
6:00 PM Omaha Grizzlies BB
30
Millard South football Pasta Feed
2
1:001:001:001:001:001:001:001:001:001:001:001:001:001:00 PM
5
YMCA
6:30 AM Men of Hope Bible Study
9:00 AM Tai Chi
4
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
One of the jobs of the outreach elder is to send out what we call “inac#ve le!ers.” These le!ers, which get dropped in
the mail some#me in late July, go to folks who haven’t a!ended worship or contributed financially to Hope in the first
half of the year, on one level, inac#ve le!ers are a simple means of keeping our membership rolls in order - a bit of
housekeeping for our record books. More importantly, however, these le!ers serve as a gentle way to get in touch with
members of the Hope family who might have go!en out of the habit of regular church par#cipa#on or who might have
moved on to another church. They allow us to touch base, figure out if we inadvertently did something to make them
feel unwelcome, and reiterate that they’re are always welcome at Hope.
Here’s an excerpt from the le!er that reflects this:
While we would love for folks to grow together in faith as part of the Hope Church community, our primary
desire is that you have a church home where you can love God, love others, and live in grace. So, if you have
found another church home, please know that I am happy that you are con#nuing to worship God and follow
Christ...Please know that are always welcome at Hope, and that I would like nothing more than to see you back
on Sunday or to know that you are worshiping elsewhere.
As you can see, our primary concern is that folks have a church home where they can grow in faith. But, we think that
Hope is a pre!y special group of people and would love for more to join the Hope family.
One of the ways we try to accomplish this is by leading new member classes that give an introduc#on of what we’re all
about as a church and what it means to be a member. The next one is scheduled for the evening of Thursday,
September 24th. The class lasts approximately two hours and dinner is provided. Whether you’ve been coming for a
while but haven’t become a member, or are brand-new and think you might like to make Hope your church home, this
class is for you. Please send an email to Ma! Van Hook ([email protected]) or give a phone call (401-368-
1233...yes, it’s a 401 area code!) to indicate your interest. Even if you can’t make it on Sept. 24th, le-ng us know you’re
interested will help as we make plans for the next class
Outreach Outreach Outreach Submitted by Matt Van Hook Outreach Ruling ElderSubmitted by Matt Van Hook Outreach Ruling ElderSubmitted by Matt Van Hook Outreach Ruling Elder
Hope Quilt Club meets at 10:00 am Hope Quilt Club meets at 10:00 am Hope Quilt Club meets at 10:00 am –––3:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:00 pm
on the second Tuesday of each Month on the second Tuesday of each Month on the second Tuesday of each Month
September –May. Georgia Bulger will
demonstrate making micro-safe pot holders
and a baked potato & tor#lla steamer at our
September mee#ng or bring an unfinished
project to work on. Bring a sack lunch. If
ques#ons on material needed for the projects,
call Marleen Gunderson 402Marleen Gunderson 402Marleen Gunderson 402---691691691---458945894589. If you
can sew a quarter inch seam come and learn
how to make a quilt.
BAKED POTATO & TORTILLA STEAMERBAKED POTATO & TORTILLA STEAMERBAKED POTATO & TORTILLA STEAMER
1/2 Yard of Main Fabric1/2 Yard of Main Fabric1/2 Yard of Main Fabric
1/3 Yard of Muslin1/3 Yard of Muslin1/3 Yard of Muslin
12” x 24” co!on ba-ng12” x 24” co!on ba-ng12” x 24” co!on ba-ng
Co!on threadCo!on threadCo!on thread
Again, all fabric must be 100% Co!on.Again, all fabric must be 100% Co!on.Again, all fabric must be 100% Co!on.
Thank you to all who served on the Hope team for Brush Up Nebraska Paint-A-Thon on Aug 7 and 15.
Thanks to the help of JB Turner, Chuck Lundquist,
Ken and Kellie Groetsema, Brian and Jacob Claus,
Ken Anderson, Kathy Andersen, Lillian and Dave
Fehr, Ma! Van Hook, Troy and Connor Kaup,
Brent Love!, Paul Richling, Zach and Tyler Richling, and Linda
Reffert. This team did an amazing job sprucing up Harriet’s home
at 8520 Izard St with a beau#ful oatmeal paint and red trim.
Harriet had recently lost her husband (a former US Marine) to
illness and she praised God that the Hope team was able to give
her home the spark it has been missing for a while. We hope you
will prayerfully consider joining the Hope team next August when
we once again will serve God by serving others who have homes in
need of some spark.
GIVE the gi' of LIFE – GIVE BLOOD. The next Red Cross Blood Mobile blood drive at Hope church
will be in the parking lot Sat Sep 26, 7am – noon. See Dave McKenna in the lobby to sign up or
contact him at 402-333-3061 or [email protected].
Once again the people at Hope Church have been abundantly generous. Below is a list of the school
supplies that you have donated for Cody Elementary in the Millard School District. Cody Elementary has a
58% free and reduced lunch program so you can see that our help is really needed there.
18 School Boxes 2 Pencil Sharpeners 2 Pkgs. of Blue Pens
2 Pkgs. of Highlighters 2 Hand Held Calculators 1 pkg. Red Pens
8 Pencil Pouches 4 Rulers 1 pkg. of Watercolors
5 Bo!les of Hand Sani#zer 15 pair of Fiskar Scissors 2 Containers of Disinfec#ng Wipes
19 Boxes of Kleenex 8 Pkgs. of Tape 14 bo!les of Elmers Glue-all
21 Pkgs. of Filler Paper 5 Composi#on Books 47 Notebooks (70 page)
4 Boxes of storage bags 5 Pkgs. of Paper Plates 2 Expandable file Folders
3 Pkgs. of Notebook Dividers 6 Wri#ng Tablets 25 Two Pocket Folders
10 Notebook Binders 1” 5 Book Bags/Back Packs 1 Pkg. of S#cky Notes
34 Boxes of (24) Crayons 6 Boxes of (8) Crayons 4 Boxes of (48) Crayons
8 Pkgs. of (8 pk) Pencils 7 Pkgs. of (10pk) Pencils 4 Packages of (20pk) Pencils
3 Pkgs. of Dry Erase Pens 21 Pkgs. of (10pk) Markers 1 Pkg. of (4) Permanent Markers
15 Pkgs. of (2) Glue S#cks 3 Pkgs. of (6) Glue S#cks 1 pkg. of (12) Glue S#cks
10 Pkgs. of (2ct) Pink Erasers 2 Pkgs. of (3ct) Pink Erasers 1 pkg. of (5ct) Pink Erasers
1 Pkg. of (6ct) Pink Erasers 6 Pkgs. of Pencil Top Erasers 4 pkgs. of (5ct) Colored Pencils
1 Pkg ,of (24) Colored Pencils 2 Pkgs. of (20pk) Colored Pencils 25 Pkgs. of (12ct) Colored Pencils
Average
A#endance
for July
150
SESSION HIGHLIGHTSSESSION HIGHLIGHTSSESSION HIGHLIGHTS Submitted by Brian Clause Substituting Clerk of Session
MINUTES OF REGULAR SESSION MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2015
The regular Session Meeting of Hope Presbyterian Church was held on Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. at Hope Presbyterian Church.
ROLL CALL: (Key: A=Absent; E=Excused; P=Present; L=Late)
CLASS OF 2015 CLASS OF 2016 CLASS OF 2017
Paula Anderson (P) Brian Claus (P) Jani Billups (L) Lin Briley (P) Niki Frerichs (P) Darci Davis (P) Linda Deegan (P) Dave Fehr (P) Mike Molacek (E) Donelle Thomas (P) Carol Rudesill (P) Matt Van Hook (P) MODERATOR: Pastor Dave Matsumura
Substitute CLERK OF SESSION: Brian Claus (in Jayne Molacek’s absence) DEVOTIONS: Niki Frerichs
DINNER: Niki Frerichs
Session started at 6:30 pm in Meeting Room 2. Pastor Dave opened with prayer.
Niki provided dinner and also did devotions. CAREGIVING: No new business
BUILDING AND GROUNDS REPORT: No new business
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION REPORTS:
ADULT MINISTRY: No new business
YOUTH MINISTRY: No new business
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY: See new business
FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT: No new business
MISSION COMMITTEE REPORT: See new business
OUTREACH COMMITTEE REPORT: No new business
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORT: See new business
SWORD COMMITTEE REPORT: See new business
MUSIC AND WORSHIP REPORT: No new business
CLERK’S REPORT: The Clerk’s report for June was accepted with the amendment that the start time for worship on Sun Sep 13, 20, 17, and Oct 4 will be 10:10am not 10:00 am.
MINUTES: The minutes of the October 28, 2014 session meeting were approved.
CORRESPONDENCE: No correspondence
FINANCE REPORT: The July Finance Report was given and approved. Also, see new business.
Date Note Service Times 10:30AM
Greeters Coordinator Diane Huerta Coordinator Thelma Symanietz
September 6 9:00 AM Denise & Terry Kendrick Thelma Symanietz
September 13 10:10 AM Kelly Klopp & John Klopp
September 20 10:10 AMDonelle Thomas & Diane Huerta
September 27 10:10 AM Judy & Ron Bruening
Ushers Coordinator Diane Huerta Coordinator Thelma Symanietz
September 6 9:00 AM Sandra Kay Nancy Mi#lebrun
September 13 10:10 AM Denise & Terry Kendrick
September 20 10:10 AM Ruby Thornwall
September 27 10:10 AM Roselyn Kenkel
Liturgist Coordinator Bobbie Geiger Coordinator Thelma Symanietz
September 6 9:00 AM John Klopp Suzy Karnik
September 13 10:10 AM Sarah Mar!n
September 20 10:10 AM Mike Molacek
September 27 10:10 AM Todd Woitzel
Audio Coordinator Niki Frerichs Coordinator Niki Frerichs
September 6 9:00 AM Chuck Lundquist Dale Brewer
September 13 10:10 AM Wayne Fry
September 20 10:10 AM Tyler Thraen
September 27 10:10 AM Wayne Fry
Visual Coordinator Pam Purchase Coordinator Nikki Frerichs
September 6 9:00 AM Rich Roberts Paula Washka
September 13 10:10 AM Pam Purchase
September 20 10:10 AM Rich Roberts
September 27 10:10 AM Pam Purchase
Chuck & Patricia Lundquist have re!red! Congratula!ons and best wishes! To celebrate their re!rement
they will have cake at the church on Sunday August 30, during fellowship a#er both services!
Communion Servers September 6, 2015 9:00AM Darci Davis, Jerri Schreiner, Doreen Shafer, & Ruby Thornwall
10:30AM Thelma Symanietz, Nancy Mi#lebrun, Kelly Groetsema
SESSION COMMITTEE EMAIL
Paula Washka Caregiving [email protected]
Jani Billups Youth Ministry [email protected]
Lin Briley Fellowship [email protected]
Brian Claus Mission [email protected]
Darci Davis Children’s [email protected]
Linda Deegan Personnel [email protected]
Dave Fehr Finance [email protected]
Niki Frerichs Music & Worship [email protected]
Mike Molacek Building & Grounds [email protected]
Carol Rudesill Adult Ministry [email protected]
Donelle Thomas SWORD [email protected]
Matt Van Hook Outreach [email protected]
Dave Matsumura Moderator [email protected]
Jayne Molacek Clerk of Session [email protected]
Pantry of HopePantry of HopePantry of Hope
SUBMITTED BY MIKE MOLECEKSUBMITTED BY MIKE MOLECEKSUBMITTED BY MIKE MOLECEK
September is Hunger Ac#on Month.
God created you to do something.
Make an impact in our community.
Bring your non-perishable food items
to the Pantry of Hope. Food is given to
anyone who is hungry. In August 247
items were distributed. Thanks for
your support!
Ch
urc
h S
taff
Ch
urc
h S
taff
Ch
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taff
STAFF POSITION EMAIL
Dave Matsumura Pastor [email protected]
Luke Furman 1st Service Director [email protected]
Ulette Bonner 2nd Service Director [email protected]
Deb Miller Office Administrator [email protected]
Carol Rudesill Interim ED [email protected]
Jayne Molacek Treasurer [email protected]
Mike Huerta Custodian [email protected]
Zoey Devney Nursery
Church LeadershipChurch LeadershipChurch Leadership
FINANCEFINANCEFINANCE Submitted by Dave Fehr Submitted by Dave Fehr Submitted by Dave Fehr
School has started back up and the end of the year will be here before we know it. That means it’s #me to
think about your charitable contribu#ons for tax purposes. The Finance Commi!ee has asked Mary Sevory,
from the Presbyterian Founda#on to come talk to the congrega#on at Hope on Sunday, Nov. 8th
at 10am. Mary
can talk about Wills, Estate planning, Trusts, and Endowment Plans. It will be a good opportunity to ask any
ques#ons you have about these topics, or just listen to what she has to say and see if any of these financial
planning tools will work for you. There will be info about the 10am Seminar and a signup
sheet in the Narthex. Other ways you can contribute to Hope Church financially besides
your pledge are paying for your Per Capita and par#cipa#ng in the Endowment fund by
contribu#ng to the Birthday Club.
OLD BUSINESS: Session members held discussion on same sex marriage policy changes to the Book of Order of General Assembly which is a policy session will eventually vote on for Hope church. This is also the topic which will be discussed in small groups before and after the 10:10am church services on Sep 13, 29, 27, and Oct 4. Session members will facilitate the discussions in these small groups. Matt, Brian, Linda, Donelle, and Dave will meet on Sep 2 to organize some videos and discussion questions to facilitate these small group sessions related to Pastor Dave’s sermons pertaining to the subject of same sex marriage.
NEW BUSINESS:
Motion from Finance Committee to add entry on Church Calendar, Mary Sevory, from Presbytery Foundation to hold a Seminar at Hope Church on November 8
th 9:00 and 10:30 to talk about Wills, Trusts, etc. Seconded and carried.
Motion from Mission Committee to put the following dates on the calendar for the Red Cross Blood Drive: September 26, 2015, February 27, 2016 and June 25, 2016. Seconded and carried.
Motion from Mission Committee to allow Social Justice and Peacemakers Committee of our Presbytery to host a dinner in the gym for Rwandan Reverend Jerome Nkumbuyinka on Friday, October 16, 2015 – use of gym/kitchen and set up of tables and chairs for dinner. Seconded and carried.
Motion from Sword Committee to have only one breakfast served between the services for Consecration Sunday on October 25, 2015. Seconded and carried.
Motion from Children’s Ministry to approve the 2015-2016 schedule. Session decided this motion was not necessary, but rather a Children’s Ministry committee decision.
Motion from Children’s Ministry to add Wednesday, October 28, 2015 for Trunk or Treat. Seconded and carried.
ITEMS OF INTEREST:
Sign-up to open and close for fall rentals
There being no further business, the meeting closed with prayer by Moderator Pastor Dave Matsumura.
Respectfully submitted,
Brian Claus
Mission Elder, Substituting as Clerk of Session
YOUTHYOUTHYOUTH Submitted by Jani Billups Submitted by Jani Billups Submitted by Jani Billups
Plans are underway for youth group ac#vi#es this school year.
High school leaders met with youth and parents to brainstorm
ideas for the year and calendars will be coming out soon. The
contact for the high school youth group is Kellie Groetsema.
Please watch for her emails for informa#on or contact her at
[email protected] if you would like to get involved.
Middle school youth group will kick off on Sunday, September 27 a'er the 10:10 church service. We would invite all
parents to stay for a brief informa#onal mee#ng at that #me. We will then have lunch and play some games with the
middle school youth un#l 12:45 that day. We hope to see many of you there.
Our First Event
Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 13th
at 4:00 pm! We will have an ALL YOUTH EVENT (Grades 6 – 12).
Bring friends, bring parents, bring other adults for our first ever Survivor Teens vs. Adults event. Groups will compete
in mental and physical challenges to see who the ul#mate survivors are. This will be a great chance for both teens
and parents of teens to get to know each other and HAVE FUN! Jani will be sending out an email with more specific
informa#on soon. If you are interested in helping with the planning team, please email [email protected]. This
event was cancelled in the spring due to busy lives, so please try to clear your a'ernoon for the event. You will be
glad that you did.
MISSION SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTHMISSION SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTHMISSION SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTH SUBMITTED BY BRIAN CLAUSSUBMITTED BY BRIAN CLAUSSUBMITTED BY BRIAN CLAUS
Our Mission of the Month for September is the American
Red Cross. Many of you already support the Red Cross
with our regular Blood Mobile blood drives at Hope church
like the one coming up on September 26. But did you
know the Red Cross provides much more disaster relief
than just the blood bank? Each year the American Red
Cross responds to about 70,000 natural and man-made
disasters in the U.S. ranging from fires to hurricanes,
floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hazardous materials spills,
transporta#on accidents and explosions. They provide
overnight shelters, emergency health services, and
emergency relief items such as water, tarps, shovels,
toiletries in the a'ermath of a disaster. Don’t let the
organiza#on’s name deceive you, the American Red Cross
has provided disaster relief in 73 countries to billions of
people in need to include providing measles and rubella
vaccina#ons to over 1.1 billion children worldwide. The
American Red Cross is a huge supporter of the American
Armed Forces. The American Red Cross’ unwavering
commitment to members of the U.S. military, its veterans
and their families con#nues to grow and develop more
than a century a'er Clara Barton first recruited nurses to
support the U.S. Army. Today, the Red Cross is mee#ng the
needs of a changing military and expanding services to
veterans. Red Cross support of military members and their
families enhances morale and contributes to increased
opera#onal capability in several ways. The Red Cross
provides transi#on and reintegra#on support to wounded
warriors and if a service member has a family emergency
occur while they are deployed overseas, the American Red
Cross uses advanced communica#on technology to
contact the service member quickly and helps fund their
plane #cket home to be with their loved ones in #mes of
need. For more informa#on on the American Red Cross
and the mission opportuni#es this organiza#on offers see
their website
h!p://www.redcross.org .
Thursday Bible StudyThursday Bible StudyThursday Bible Study: Pastor Dave shares his extensive Bible knowledge each Thursday at 10:00
am. The group moves from verse to verse in this informal #me of study and sharing lives. Bring
your friends, grab a favorite flavor of coffee or tea in the office and head to the Hope library for
great fellowship. In the current study, Luke tells about how as Jesus travels He teaches, He
preaches, He heals the sick and brings hope to the desperate and discouraged. He also seeks those
who were obedient and faithful. Be faithful to this great study on Thursdays!
A#en!on, ladies! Beginning soon the Women’s Prayer Group A#en!on, ladies! Beginning soon the Women’s Prayer Group A#en!on, ladies! Beginning soon the Women’s Prayer Group will be studying the book Soul Keeping by
John Ortberg, a Presbyterian pastor and popular speaker and author. Books will be handed out at the
first mee#ng so there’s no need to read ahead. This book is filled with advice and instruc#on on how to
live a life with and for God that results in las#ng peace and sa#sfac#on - something we all long for. In
addi#on to the study, our emphasis will be on building friendships and a healthier prayer life. Our first 1
½ to 2-hour introductory mee!ng will be on September 28 at 6:30 PM at the home of Linda Reffert –
5814 S. 172 Ave. Please sign up in the lobby if you’d like to join and want a book. Or contact Linda
Reffert at [email protected] or Julie Reeks at [email protected] for more informa#on or to sign up or get a book.
Women on WednesdaysWomen on WednesdaysWomen on Wednesdays: 1:00-2:00 OR 6:30-7:30 p.m. - Begins Sept. 16
Come a'ernoons or evenings! Women who enjoyed some of these studies in the past want to do some
more! Strengthen your rela#onships with other women by studying women of the Bible. The book offers
inspira#on, applica#on, Bible study, Bible promises, and prayer. Each week focuses on one woman's life
with five days of short readings – or do all five readings in less than an hour in one day.
Contact Carol Rudesill at 402-598-1890 if you plan to a!end or need informa#on.
Women’s Retreat.Women’s Retreat.Women’s Retreat. Women of all ages are invited to a SPA Retreat at Chalco Hills
Recrea#on Center Saturday, November 14 from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Come relax
and be spiritually nourished before the holidays for just $14.00. Be reminded of
God’s faithfulness and the power of connec#ng with other women. Journey
through Psalms and learn to share with a great listener: GOD! Invite friends,
family and co-workers to save this date. For informa#on contact Julie Reeks at
[email protected] or 402-880-0042 or Carol Rudesill at [email protected] or 402-598-1890.
Hope II will meet September 11, 2015 at noonHope II will meet September 11, 2015 at noonHope II will meet September 11, 2015 at noon. Gordon & Marleen Gunderson and Beanie Huston are
hosts. To get back in the swing of things they are doing a 9-11 patrio#c theme. Jewel Schiener Sings
will provide a vocal music program. Don’t forget 9-11-2011 or 9-11-2015 at Hope! We have hosts for
September and October but need hosts for November through May. A sign-up sheet will be available
at the September mee#ng. All ages are welcome!
Adult Sunday School with Chuck Bulger Adult Sunday School with Chuck Bulger Adult Sunday School with Chuck Bulger will resume October 11, 2015 at 10:30am. (There is one
worship service at 10:10am September 13 through October 4.) The group welcomes newcomers to
their ongoing Bible Study, which picks up in the book of 1st
Kings - Chapter 3. Watch for more
informa#on in the October newsle!er or contact Chuck at 402-861-1904.
The Page Turner Book Club The Page Turner Book Club The Page Turner Book Club will meet September 8th at 10:30am in the church Library. The September
book is "The Book of Unknown Americans" by Cris#na Henriques. It is currently on the table in the
Lobby. Please sign the sheet with name and book number so we know who has the books. Should you
not make the mee#ng and you have a book, please return it to any Omaha Public Library drop box or
inside. We welcome anyone to join the group who enjoys reading. The discussions are lively. Contact
Georgia Bulger at 402-861-1904 for information.
EDUCATION NEWSEDUCATION NEWSEDUCATION NEWS Submitted by Carol RudesillSubmitted by Carol RudesillSubmitted by Carol Rudesill
Prepara#ons for our 2015-16 educa#on programs have been filled with excitement! We HOPE you will want to make
church a priority as you plan your fall schedules. Contact Carol Rudesill at [email protected] or 402-598-1890 if you
have ideas or ques#ons.
Preschool through Grade 5Preschool through Grade 5Preschool through Grade 5 can gather in the Children’s Worship room at 8:50am each week to get
energized with music. New curriculum is designed to help kids respond to God’s grace with gra#tude.
Parents have access to e-books at h!p://www.growinggracegra#tude.org/for-the-home.html to read
and hear weekly stories and listen to samples of music. We look forward to hearing from parents about
how their kids enjoy this new learning op#on.
The Middle SchoolMiddle SchoolMiddle School class will work with a variety of teachers and topics, beginning with “Grace and Gra#tude”. They
will do a Pay-It-Forward ac#vity and some sessions on Faith and Science. And that is just the beginning! Come find out
what else is planned for grades 6-8 students.
Any students who have completed 7Any students who have completed 7Any students who have completed 7ththth
gradegradegrade are invited to par#cipate in our Confirma#on program
if they wish. It is designed to assist youth in personal faith development and prepare them for
membership at Hope Presbyterian Church. Please contact Carol Rudesill at 402-598-1890 or Josh
Widman 402-651-4366 if interested. An orienta#on mee#ng was held in August but it is not too late
to join. This “Journey to Discipleship” program will meet at 9:00 am Sundays and requires strong
commitment on the part of students and their families.
Senior High studentsSenior High studentsSenior High students will meet at 9:00am this fall to allow students of all ages in all families to be in
our educa#on programs at the same #me. The program will develop as students work with leaders
to make decisions about what really meets their needs at this stage in their lives. We hope all who
are interested will bring their ideas and ques#ons to the class.
AdultsAdultsAdults are invited to a!end discussion groups at 9:00am Sundays, September 13, 20, and 27 and
October 4. The Supreme Court’s Gay Marriage decision has created controversy. Hope Church
must decide whether gay couples could be married in our church. These discussions will be
designed to inform and educate and strengthen our rela#onships, as we gain knowledge and
overcome fears. Pastor Dave will preach on this topic those four weeks when our one worship
service will be at 10:10 am. (NOTE the TIME!) There will also be discussion #me available
following worship those weeks.
Beginning September 13 children in preschool to grade 2 are invited to a!end WWWorship orship orship AAAnd nd nd
MMMore at ore at ore at 10:10 am10:10 am10:10 am. . . (The #me will be 10:30am beginning October 11.) Children will learn things
to help them par#cipate in worship - including music and prayers. They will have lessons on
Grace and Gra#tude and #me for recrea#on and games
While thinking back to being in Sunday School, some parents recalled how fun it was to have
envelopes to put their offering in. We decided to give children at Hope that same fun memory. Watch
for envelopes to come home with children in September with informa#on about our fall offering,
which goes to help FAMILIES IN NEED FAMILIES IN NEED FAMILIES IN NEED this Christmas. Help children learn to love others and to be
generous.
The book of NehemiahThe book of NehemiahThe book of Nehemiah shows us the significant impact one individual can have. God placed you
where you are for a purpose. Have this a-tude about your work: “Whatever you do in word or deed,
do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17).
MEN are invited to Summer Kitchen Café in La Vista on Saturdays at 6:30 a.m.MEN are invited to Summer Kitchen Café in La Vista on Saturdays at 6:30 a.m.MEN are invited to Summer Kitchen Café in La Vista on Saturdays at 6:30 a.m. Learn about God’s Learn about God’s Learn about God’s
purpose for you! Contact purpose for you! Contact purpose for you! Contact Josh Widman Josh Widman Josh Widman at at at [email protected]@[email protected] or 402or 402or 402---651651651---4366 for informa#on 4366 for informa#on 4366 for informa#on
Pastor’s PenPastor’s PenPastor’s Pen
Dear Friends,
An#cipa#on and excitement are building as we enter our Fall
season. Not only is Sunday School restar#ng but choir and
bells are also convening once more. Summer is coming to a
close and if recent weather is any indica#on we will have an
interes#ng autumn and winter.
The Session and I are also very excited about a four week
series we’ve been planning for our congrega#on. This four
week series will begin on September 13th
and culminate on
Oct 4th
with World Communion Sunday. The topic of this
series is Homosexual marriage and what brought us to the
place of wan#ng this discussion in our congrega#on is the
need for the Session to decide whether we will allow same
gender weddings in our facili#es. The Supreme Court has
recently made same gender marriages legal in all states and
we need to decide whether we will allow the use of our
building and/ or grounds for those wedding ceremonies. The
Elders on Session wished to have discussion opportuni#es in
the larger congrega#on before making that decision.
It’s an exci#ng #me for our congrega#on. Our self-
proclaimed iden#ty is that we are a loving and welcoming
congrega#on and everyone is welcome here. We pride
ourselves on being warm and friendly. We do an excellent
job of gree#ng people and strive to be inclusive in our
rela#onships. This discussion will prove our iden#ty, tes#ng
us as we enter conversa#ons where people will have
different viewpoints. Do we foster an environment where
people can disagree without recrimina#on or cutoff? Are we
able to love, accept and welcome each other in spite our
differences of opinion? Can we use verbiage that is not
inherently confronta#onal or judgmental? Do we
understand that people of good faith will some#mes
disagree in ma!ers of faith and interpreta#on of scripture?
Are we humble enough to admit that we do not know all
there is to know about everything and the possibility exists
that we could be wrong? Are we able to live in community
and love others though we disagree?
I believe we are and that this series will cement our own self-
understanding and self-iden#ty in a powerful way. I believe
this will deepen our faith and strengthen our understanding
of community. I believe this will help us develop our abili#es
to live in grace more fully and in prac#cal ways.
It is an exci#ng #me for us as we test our faith and
commitment to love God, love others and live in grace
through this series. The conversa#on on homosexuality will
not end a'er this series and the intent is not to convince
anyone of a par#cular stance or change anyone’s opinion. It
is however a great opportunity to address a topic that is
per#nent and currently in the forefront of our society. My
hope is that the series will be forma#onal to our con#nued
development as a Chris#an community and will strengthen
our resolve to be the kind of community that Christ calls us
to be.
I am hopeful and encourage you to come with a desire to
learn, reflect and be open to God’s Spirit moving you in this
series. There may be some who don’t want to talk about
issues like this and will choose to stay away. I would
encourage those to reconsider and come with open hearts to
listen, learn and formulate your own understanding, not
shying away from the discomfort, but choosing to grow
through it. There may be some who have only a desire to
prove their own posi#on and negate any other posi#on. I
would encourage you to reconsider and come with a desire
to be open to differing opinions and learn the art of loving
those with whom you disagree.
There will be discussion groups forming at 9 AM and a'er
the worship service, which is scheduled at 10:10 AM. The
normal two worship services will be combined during this
series so we can gather as a unified body in worship,
reinforcing the fact that we belong to God even in our
diversity.
I am looking forward to this and invite you to join the Elders
of the Session and I as we explore this topic in rela#on to our
faith, our understanding of scripture and of God, and our
iden#ty as a community of faith in a diverse and complex
world.
Blessings Abound!
Dave
Pastor Dave
Another Year of Choirs at Hope!Another Year of Choirs at Hope!Another Year of Choirs at Hope! Submitted by Luke Furman First Service Music DirectorSubmitted by Luke Furman First Service Music DirectorSubmitted by Luke Furman First Service Music Director
Glow Golf Fore Hope was held this year on Friday, July 31st
. A lot of fun was had by all. This event would not have
been successful without the hole sponsors and people who donated items for raffle prizes. Hole sponsors this year
included Kenny & Jolene Anderson, Shawn Williams, Michele Roberts, Lori Brockman, Tom & Linda Deegan, Woodke &
Gibbons, and Ron & Pat S#gge. Thank you to Jeremy Claus, Brian & Tina Claus, Michele Roberts, Sue Roberts, Kenny &
Jolene Anderson, and Jennie Gibbons for dona#ng awesome raffle prizes. Total raised this year was $3,995.50. There
were 26 golfers and 51 meals served.
Just a reminder that Consecra#on Sunday is Oct. 25th
. There will be a waffle bar served between the two
worship services that day so please plan to a!end. There will also be ac#vi#es for the kids during that #me.
Pledge cards will be mailed out in September. Please prayerfully consider what you can give financially.
Mark 12: 41-44
41Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd pu-ng
their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42But a poor widow
came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a frac#on of a penny. 43Calling his disciples
to him, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44They all
gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty put in everything—all she had to live on.
Next SWORD mee#ng is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 8th
6:30 p.m. at Hope Church.
SWORDSWORDSWORD Submitted by Donelle Thomas Submitted by Donelle Thomas Submitted by Donelle Thomas
Hello Hope Spirit Ringers & Singers! I hope you’ve been enjoying your much deserved break from Wednesday
rehearsals and Sunday performances at Hope. It’s #me again to start things up for another season, and I’m excited to
get our groups going once again!
I’d like to start regular choir rehearsals next Wednesday night , the 26th of August. That will give us a head start for
our first anthem singing, on September 13
For bells, let’s have a “bell polishing party” next Wednesday (the 26th of August, and get the bells looking nice
before star#ng our regular rehearsals the following week. We are s#ll looking for 1-2 more ringers to join us this
year, so be asking your bell-playing friends if they have any interest.
Lastly, I would like to suggest a small change to our rehearsal #mes for this year, since we are not compe#ng for #me
with dinner and kids ac#vi#es on Wednesday nights, could we have bells at 6:30-7:15 and choir from 7:30-8:30.
Please let me know what you think of this possible schedule; I’d like to try it, but if it doesn’t work for people we can
s#ll s#ck with the old schedule (7:00 bells/7:45 Choir)
Thanks once again for dona#ng your #me and talents to Hope!
Yours In Christ,
Luke
Luke Furman
The work of this commi!ee is to support the mission and ministry of Hope, by caring for the concrete, physical
founda#on of the congrega#onal life. We support everyone!
Thanks:
· Lorin Toman for follow up with Sco! Gunderson restoring the pop machine electrical service.
· Dick Corwine and Lorin Toman for installing the gym Men’s restroom par##on.
· Dick Corwine for authoring a newsle!er sanctuary chair fund ar#cle.
· Corn pickers: Barb, Jared and Mike Dierking, Terry Kendrick, Ron S#gge, John Gunning, Vic Hanson, Dave Fehr,
Paul Richling, Terry Wiese, Hugh Carter, J.B. and Lisa Turner, Chuck Lundquist and the Godfather of the cornfield,
Mr. Bob Witzel.
Punch list discussion:
· The bike Rack is ordered.
· The gym floor scrubber is repaired.
· New Oreck vacuum donated anonymously.
· Mega Cleaning completed waxing work on August 13.
· Midwest Pain#ng completed the planned room pain#ng.
· The Sanctuary chair replacement fund is $12,763.41.
· Sanctuary projectors replacement bid is just under $12,000.
BUILDING & GROUNDSBUILDING & GROUNDSBUILDING & GROUNDS Submitted by Mike MolacekSubmitted by Mike MolacekSubmitted by Mike Molacek
FELLOWSHIPFELLOWSHIPFELLOWSHIP Submitted by Lin BrileySubmitted by Lin BrileySubmitted by Lin Briley
The trolley tour from the Durham Museum is on Saturday, September 19th
at 10:30 am. At this point
the seats are all filled. The cost will be $13 each. Please make checks payable to “Hope Church” and
give to Lin Briley before September 19th
. We are s#ll looking for a place to have lunch a'er the tour. If
you have any good ideas, please let Lin Briley know.
A reminder, a group meets at the church on the second Thursday of each month at 1:00 pm to play cards.
We have played several different games since last fall and have had a lot of fun and fellowship. Everyone
is welcome so if you like to play cards mark your calendar for the second Thursday of each month. If you
would like an email reminder, let Lin Briley know and she will add you to the email list. You do not need
to know how to play the games as we have several willing to teach you. Our next card date is September 10th
Bob and I are forever grateful to everyone at Hope for all the cards and calls we have received concerning
Bob’s open heart surgery for mitral valve replacement. Just a FYI update – he’s not out of the woods yet –
is back in Clarkson for a procedure concerning the pacemaker they put in. He is in atrial fib which has
produced a large clot – which must be dissolved before the pacemaker can be reset. Please keep him in
your hearts and prayers – we can’t thank you enough........Bob and Fritz Donahoo
I want to Thank everyone for all the cards, thoughts and prayers that I have received during my surgeries
and treatments for my cancer. All the concern has helped me through both my mental & spiritual needs.
I cannot thank you enough for your best wishes. It also helped me get through all of this by having a
suppor#ve loving care giver, that is not an easy job but Kenny proved that it could be done! I s#ll have
some rough days ahead but friends help pave the road-Thank you all! Jolene Anderson
