September, 2014Volume 20, Number 1

Sharing our faith by sharing God’s love!

St. Timothy Mission StatementNurtured and sustained by God’s love,

we are called and inspired to share His love with our neighbor,to make God’s story known, and to help our neighbors near and far

…so that all may experience God’s love.

“And immediately something like scales fell from [Saul’s] eyesand his sight was restored. Then he got up and was baptized”

[Acts 9:18.]Saul knew who he was and had a good fix on his purpose in life: defend his faith

tradition against the onslaught of this new “way.” God had other ideas. It took a literallyblinding light and the voice of the risen Christ to get Saul’s attention, but God openedhim to new and dramatically different possibilities for his life.

When the blinded Saul arrived in Damascus, God sent Ananias, a follower of the“way,” to speak things to Saul. It was then that “something like scales fell from his eyes”;and he began to see not only the physical world around him, but also God’s will for hislife. He was baptized, took the name “Paul,” and went on to become the most famous ofall the apostles.

There is an exciting hope for you and me in this story. No matter how deeplyentrenched in our own thoughts and ambitions and dreams we may be, the light ofGod’s Word is always there, waiting to enlighten us to the ways of God’s future for us.

• It doesn’t matter what your family of origin was like—you can change!• It doesn’t matter what opportunities may have passed you by—you can change!• It doesn’t matter how trapped you may feel by your present circumstances—you

can change!In baptism a “new” you was born. Jesus promises that now you have eternal,

abundant life available to you. God loves you and empowers you; all that’s left is for youto start believing it and living it. As we begin another program year, ask for God’s gracedto discover what in your life and at St. Timothy most needs renewal and transformation;and then get ready for the ride of your life!

You can change!

2 Epistle from St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church September, 2014

Worship CalendarSunday Morning Services – 10:30 a.m. • Adult Forum – 9 a.m. • Sunday School – 9:30 a.m.

Date Day Special Events ReadingsSept. 7 Sunday Pentecost 13 Ezekiel 33:7-11; Psalm 119:33-40;

9:30 a.m. Romans 13:8-14; Matthew 18:15-20Sept. 14 Sunday Holy Cross Day Numbers 21:4b-9; Psalm 98:1-4;

10:30 a.m. Rally Day 1 Corinthians 1:18-24; John 3:13-17Outdoor Praise Service & Picnic

Sept. 21 Sunday Pentecost 15 Jonah 3:10—4:11; Psalm 145:1-8;10:30 a.m. Rite for Wholeness Philippians 1:21-30; Matthew 20:1-16

Guest Pastor: Rev Gerald RoundsSept. 28 Sunday Pentecost 16 Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32; Psalm 25:1-9;

10:30 a.m. Philippians 2:1-13; Matthew 21:23-32REMINDER!

Adult Forum (9 a.m. in the Lounge) andChildren’s Sunday School (9:30 a.m. in Fellowship Hall)

resume on Rally Day (September 14)!

ST. TIMOTHY’s EMAILoffice@sttimothylc.org

ADDITIONAL EMAIL ADDRESSESAVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE AT:

www.sttimothylc.org

ELCA WEB SITEwww.elca.org

for information about our national church

NE PA SYNOD WEB SITEwww.godslove.org or www.nepsynod.org

for information about our synod

EPISTLE FROM ST. TIMOTHY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH isa publication of St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELCA).EPISTLE FROM ST. TIMOTHY EVANGLICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH.Published monthly except August by St. Timothy Evangelical LutheranChurch, 140 South Ott Street, Allentown, PA 18104-6197. Questions orcomments may be directed to the Editor, Epistle from St. Timothy, St.Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church, 140 South Ott Street, Allentown,Pennsylvania 18104-6197.

Moving? New Email?Change Your Phone No.?

We constantly struggle in this mobile society we livein to keep up with everyone's current mailing andcontact information. We are asking everyone tomake sure the information we have is up-to-date bycompleting the form below and either mail it to thechurch secretary or drop it in the offering plate.

PLEASE PLACE COMPLETED FORM INOFFERING PLATE OR DROP IN THE MAIL.

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DID YOU KNOW?Did you know that you can keep

up-to-date with what’s happening atSt. Timothy by checking our website?

Just go towww.sttimothylc.org

Click on “News & Events”in the menu bar near the top

or left side of the page…and you won’t miss a thing!

September, 2014 Epistle from St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 3

Pennsylvania’sYellow Dot Program

Did You Know?Pennsylvania has developed a program to

aid individuals if emergency care is needed following a traffic accident in which they maynot be able to communicate their needs themselves. The program has been developed ina cooperative effort between the PennsylvaniaDepartments of Transportation, Health andAging, the Pennsylvania State Police, thePennsylvania Turnpike Commission, FirstResponders, and local law enforcement departments.

How the Program Works• Request a Yellow Dot kit by calling the

PennDOT Sales Store at 1-717-787-6746 or onthe web – www.YellowDot.pa.gov

• The kit contains a folder with a medicalinformation sheet including a place to affix acurrent photograph (3 inches by 3 inches) of theindividual's head and shoulders.

• The Yellow Dot folder containing themedical information sheet is to be placed insidethe glove compartment of the car.

• The yellow dot sticker included in the kitis to be placed on the inside of the car's rear window on the driver's side. Specific instructionsare included with the kit.

Information adapted from pa.gov website

Make a Joyful Noise Unto the Lord!

St. Timothy church is blessed with excellentmusicians in the choirs and ensembles, as well asin the congregation. Music can express what cannot be put into words. Everyone is welcometo join any of our musical groups, and weencourage people to participate as much as theirschedules allow, whether it’s all year, or just forspecial services.

The CHILDREN’S CHOIR is made up ofall the children in Sunday school. They meetevery Sunday, September to June, at 9:30 am inthe choir room for a short 15 minutes of singingand worshiping together. They sing in churchone service a month. All children are welcome!

The SENIOR CHOIR meets in the churchsanctuary every Wednesday, September to June,7:30-9 pm. The choir is open to everyone frommiddle school on up who can sing in tune andenjoys singing. The senior choir sings in churchalmost every Sunday and for special services during Lent and Christmas. They also sing occasionally during the summer. Rehearsalsbegin September 3 at 7:30 pm.

The BELL CHOIR presents their music inthe worship service approximately once a month.They rehearse in the church sanctuary 6:45-7:15pm several Wednesdays a month and before theSunday service in which they will be playing. Thebell choir is open to everyone from grade four onup who enjoys hearing the bells, and would liketo play them.

The PRAISE BAND plays at approximatelyten contemporary services throughout the yearas well as some special events. Rehearsals areheld as needed. Contact Rick Focht (610-439-0182) if you are interested in participating in the praise band.

The CONGREGATION is where everyonecan participate, no rehearsal necessary. Singfrom your heart and don’t worry about how itsounds. Pay close attention to the words. Theyhave a definite purpose for being there. Yourworship will be more meaningful because ofyour participation.

These are just a few of the many ways youcan serve our Lord. If you have any questions,please feel free to call Nancy Fennell (610-435-0628).

DEADLINEfor the

OCTOBERNewsletter

is

SEPTEMBER 15!

4 Epistle from St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church Septtember, 2014

A Message from Bishop ZeiserAs I prepare to begin my second term on

August 1, I want to announce the staff changesthat will occur because of the retirement ofPastor Catherine Ziel and Carol Weiser.

How grateful I am for the exceptional manner in which Pastor Ziel fulfilled the responsibilities of Executive Associate of theBishop! Moving forward, this position will focuson strengthening the ministries of congregationsand providing support to rostered leaders andmembers of congregations in their pursuit offaithful discipleship. In the Director ofEvangelical Mission (DEM) position, we alreadyhave essential components and working relation-ships necessary to move in that direction withgreater vigor. Consequently, I asked our DEM,Pastor Michael Bennethum, to become ExecutiveAssociate of the Bishop, understanding that inthis new context his DEM work will continueand be magnified.

To further enhance theministries of congregations,rostered leaders, andcongre gational leaders, Ihave included in PastorBennethum’s new role theresponsibility to administerand build up the work of theSynod Council, the MinistryTeams and Cabinet, andsynod committees, as well assome responsibilities relatedto the annual synod assembly. He has acceptedthe position and will move into the office spacethat Pastor Ziel has occupied.

As part of this transition, Pastor Benne -thum will relinquish respon-sibility for the West BerksMission District. In an effortto provide the mission dis-trict with excellent pastoralcare, and the staff with asubstantive and wise col-league, I asked Pastor JohnRichter to assume thisresponsibility. He hasaccepted the invitation andwill join the staff in earlySeptember.

Two areas of Pastor Ziel's work that need tocontinue are the supervision of synod personneland property and the responsibility for theBethlehem/Easton Mission. I asked Pastor MaryGade to add personnel andproperty to her currentresponsibilities, and she hasagreed to do so. Pastor JeanHuber, pastor of Arndt’sChurch and dean of the mission district, has acceptedmy invitation to join thestaff as part time associatefor the B/E Mission District.Pastor Huber will step downfrom the position of dean.

Another emphasis for the next six yearsneeds to be the competent use of social media.We must explore this realm of communication sothat the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod is notrendered out of touch with a large portion of thepopulation. Associate in Ministry KarenMatthias-Long has demonstrated particular savvyin this field, and her capabilities in it related tothe life of the church are particularly strong. Ihave asked Karen to assume responsibility fordeveloping our familiarity with, our use of, andour commitment to social media as an effectivecommunications piece. She has agreed to do so.

As Carol Weiser retires, we lose her adeptskills in communications.Carol’s weekly attention toE-News, her monthlyresponsibility for SynodNews, and her managementof the synod website will betaken over by Pastor PaulBraden. Pastor Braden isfamiliar with website management and has beenactively involved with thedevelopment of the synod’snew website.

Finally, additional staff changes will occuras other staff members retire at the end of thisyear. I will announce those changes in December.

With gratitude for all who are gifted forministry in this synod,

Bishop Samuel Zeiser

September, 2014 Epistle from St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 5

3D(DISCOVERY DEVOTION DISCIPLESHIP)

LADIES …We INVITE YOU to join us for UNGLUED

St. Timothy Lounge

SEPTEMBER 25, 2014Welcome Gathering (7 – 9pm)

We will be reading and sharing New York Times bestselling author LYSA TERKEURAST’sbook UNGLUED: MAKING WISE CHOICES IN THE MIDST OF RAW EMOTIONS. This book isfilled with personal examples and biblical teaching. UNGLUED will equip you to:

• Know with confidence how to resolve conflict in your important relationships.

• Find peace in your most difficult relationships… learn to be honest but kindwhen offended.

• Identify what type of reactor you are and how to significantly improve your communication.

• Respond with no regrets by managing your tendencies to stuff or explode.• Gain a sense of calm by responding to situations out of your control without

acting out of control.

IF THIS TOPIC SPARKS YOUR INTEREST OR CURIOSITY …PLEASE JOIN US on the adventure of

ACCEPTING THE INVITATION TO IMPERFECT PROGRESS!*RSVP to Gloria by September 14th (so we may order materials). The cost is $20 for both books.

2014 Schedule:Session 1—October 2, Session 2—October 9, - Session 3—October 30, Session 4—November 6,

Session 5—November 13, Session 6—December 4, Christmas Social—December 11

Sessions will begin with a 20 minute DVD presentation._______________

As a small group of WOMEN we seek to enhance MIND, BODY, SPIRIT through study, discussion, prayer and devotion… to GOD… to each other and community. We PRAY together… SUPPORT one another… REMAIN OPEN to needs of others… EDUCATE ourselvesabout healthy lifestyle choices… EMBRACE sisterhood… EXPLORE FAITH… ENJOY socialevents and outings… and CELEBRATE life.

If you would like more information please contact Gloria Hinrichs (610-398-8472), CharlotteCruse, Sue Koehler, Carol Lewis, Rosalie Maehrer, Marilyn Mazsa, Lorna Meyer, Ivy Reynolds,Ann Ruhl, Mary Sue Schnell, or Loretta Wiltraut.

*Light refreshments will be served.

6 Epistle from St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church September, 2014

St. Timothy Endowment FundThe purpose of the Endowment Fund is to

enhance the mission outreach of St. Timothyapart from the general operation of the congregation. Grants from the Endowment Fundmay be awarded for educational purposes (e.g.,college, seminary, nursing or medical school),church related camping or leadership conferences, training which enables members togrow in Christian faith, outreach into the community and any other purpose theEndowment Committee deems appropriate and is consistent with the by-laws

Contributions to the Endowment Fund arealways welcomed. Increasing the principal generates more dividends, allowing the committee to consider more and larger grants.Contributions may be made directly to the fund,as an undesignated memorial gift or as abequest. If you have questions about giving tothe fund, please contact any committee member—Lorna Meyer, Anne Ritter, Lucille Stephens,Charlotte Cruse or Dick Cruse.

So Many Books!Are your books starting to

pile up? Are you wondering whatto do with them?? Well, here’sthe solution to your problem.The American Association ofUniversity Women (AAUW-Allentown) will be holdingtheir annual book sale in thebeginning of October. Theywill accept donations of anybooks EXCEPT encyclopedias, textbooks, or ITmanuals.

Just place your books outside the upstairsrestroom or on the stage downstairs, and we will take them over to where the sale is beingheld. All proceeds provide funds for college scholarships.

You can check out the AAUW website atwww.allentown-pa.aauw.net. The deadline fordonations is Sunday, September 21. Call NancyFennell (610-435-0628) if you need any help.

Thank you very much!

We pray weekly for our members at home.Every month we highlight a portion our list ofhomebound members so that you can sendcards, and perhaps visit!

Here is this month’s list (birthday in italics):Marlea Fritzinger, Fellowship Manor

Terrace, 3010 Fellowship Dr., Rm. #157,Whitehall, PA 18052 (November 16)

Elaine Hilbert, 221 N. 2nd St., Emmaus,PA 18049 (October 21)

Mrs. Ruth Reichenbach, Luther Crest,800 Hausman Rd., Health Center #541,Allentown, PA 18104 (June 25)

Gertrude Schmoyer, Phoebe Miller Bldg.,Rm. #307, 1925 W. Turner St., Allentown, PA18104 (March 7)

Milly Westgate, Whitehall Manor, (†)11776th St., Rm. #C15 (Alzheimer’s Unit), Whitehall,PA 18052 (January 15) (†) Mail goes to: KenWestgate, Jr., 414 E. Locust St., Bethlehem, PA18018-2919

September birthdays include:Roma Snyder, 319 S. Ott St., Allentown,

PA 18104 (September 5)Al Jaindl, Luther Crest, 800 Hausman Rd.,

Apt. 261, Allentown, PA 18104 (September 11)

Dear Friends,On behalf of the Allentown Area

Ecumenical Food Bank, we would like tothank you for your donation of 13 bags offood.

Because of your caring and sharing, weare able to feed those less fortunate in ourcommunities. We are currently servingbetween 200 and 250 families per week.

Again, thak you for your donation.Sincerely,AAEFB

September, 2014 Epistle from St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 7

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

WOMEN of the E L C Awww.womenoftheelca.org

2014-15 ProgramsGather at 7 pm in St. Timothy Lounge

Saturday, September 20, 2014FALL FUN EVENT & SERVICE PROJECT at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Trexlertown (8:30 am–3 pm).We will create fleece blankets for Camp NOAH; have devotions, bible study & FUN! Registrationforms are on the bulletin board outside the church office, or see Marilyn Mazsa or Gloria Hinrichsfor more information.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014MARILYN MAZSA will share her experiences from the WELCA Ninth Triennial Gathering—Of ManyGenerations that was held July 2014 in Charlotte, NC.

Tuesday, November 18, 2014BUNCO GAME NIGHT.Charlotte Mann and Carol Lewis are in charge of all the fun!

Tuesday, December 16, 2014CHRISTMAS LIGHTS—“Jesus, Our Bundle of Brightness!”Program led by Marilyn Mazsa and Gloria Hinrichs

Tuesday, March 17, 2015HEART IN MOTION, presented by Kim Fallon, Certified Personal Trainer (www.heartinmotion.net)Kim will provide instruction with easy tips to ‘keep moving’ at home. There will be something for everyone… gentle seated movement and/or active motion. Wear comfortable clothes.

Tuesday, April 21, 2015WOMEN OF THE BIBLEProgram let by Charlotte Cruse

Tuesday, May 19, 2015 (6:30 pm)HOW ANGER AFFECTS US (Physically, Emotionally & Spiritually) with covered dish supperThis unique program let by Pastor Tom Lichner will include a power point presentation, cooking demonstration with a delicious recipe provided.

Additional details are available in our program brochure outside the churchoffice, in Sunday bulletins, and at www.sttimothylc.org/newsevents.html.

Please sign up to provide light refreshments for ONE program.

Co Leaders:Gloria Hinrichs (610-398-8472) gloryhi@msn.comMarilyn Mazsa (610-820-9361) mmazsa@aol.com

CROP WALK 2014 WILL TAKE PLACE ON SUNDAY, OCT. 12.

Mark the date now. I’ll be looking for you at church to enlist you as a walker. Last

year we had 20 walkers and raised $2,037.00, ranking fourth among the churches

walking. We can thank God for this success. And praising God, we can do it again.

This year we’ll be walking for Maria Williams in Kenya, Duda Giltena in Begrade,

Surukhan Bekauri in the Republic of Georgia, Laura in Haiti, Lu’ong Van Phan in

Vietnam, Debra Traver working with refugees Services in Texas, and Bob, and

Mary, and Harry right here in Greater Allentown area, and .. the list will reach

tens of thousands. These are all people facing food insecurity. (The National

Geographic has been running a series on Food and the future. You might want to

check them out.) And we have the calling and the opportunity to help them out.

Last year over 425 walkers raised almost $30,000.This year, not only will churches

and synagogues walking, but mosques as well. This is a first for us.

ENDING HUNGER GLOBALLY The money that we raise helps to end hunger internationally through Church World Service. The funds provide tools of hope that empower people to meet

their own needs. This can be anything from seeds and tools to wells and water systems, technical training, literacy programs, and even micro-enterprise loans. WHY HUNGER? Hunger is no longer just an “over-there” issue. Ask any one of us who work at the Food Pantry, at St. Paul’s Breakfast, or Daybreak, and other community programs.The number of people in our area who are hungry or food insecure is on the rise. Nationally, 1 in 6 Americans face hunger every day. In Lehigh Country alone 13% of the population, more than 45,000 are considered food insecure. For children, it’s even worse – 21% of our county’s children are hungry – that’s more than 17,000 young people. And this is not just Allentown. The new face of hunger is in the suburbs. Over the past 34 years, our community has raised almost $100,000 for the Ecumenical Food Bank and DayBreak. These two agencies alone provided more than 60,000 meals last year to those in need. WHY WALK? First, you know it’s the right thing to do. It is God’s calling -- God’s Work, Our Hands. And it is part of our Mission Statement we read each Sunday – “so that all may experience God’s love.” We still have our famous 10K Walk and our Golden Mile. Sign up for either. St. Timothy will be hosting our Kick Off Rally on Sunday, Sept. 7th in our Land of Promise. (It’s a Pizza Party.) The Walk Day is Sunday, Oct. 12th. Don’t miss it. You’ll help some enjoy a meal tonight. (Our thanks to Carolyn Self, CWS Global and member of our committee, for some of this material.) Jerry Rounds

Key: [F] = Fellowship Hall [L] = Lounge [P] = Pastor’s Office [NV] = Nave[N] = Nursery [LB] = Library [YR] = Youth Room [LP] = Land of Promise

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 LABOR DAYOFFICE CLOSED7 pm–Boy ScoutsPicnic [F]

26:45-7:30 am–Lutheran AcademyBefore Care [F]9 am–Quilters [L]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–Lutheran AcademyAfter Care [F]6:30 pm–Cub Scouts[F]

36:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7 pm–Allentown HikingClub [F]7:30 pm–Senior ChoirRehearsal [NV]7:30 pm–Venture Crew[F]

46:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]10:30 am-3:30 pm–AARP [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]4 pm–WorshipCommittee [L]

56:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30-11pm–ChessClub [L]

6

7 PENTECOST 139:30 am–Worship~10:30 am–BloodPressure Screening [L]1:30 pm–CROP WalkMeeting [LP]

86:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]OFFICE CLOSED3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7 pm–Boy ScoutsPicnic [LP]

96:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]9 am–Property [L]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30 pm–Cub Scouts[F]7:30 pm–CouncilMeeting [L]

106:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6-8 pm–Hamilton ParkCrime Watch [F]AARP in Parking LotOperation Sunshine inParking Lot

116:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen2 pm–DaybreakMission Team3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]

126:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30-11 pm–ChessClub [L]

132-4 pm–FUNFEST[LP]7 pm–PRAISEBAND SHOWCASE@ Asbury UnitedMethodist Church(Springhouse Rd. &Walbert Ave.)

14 PENTECOST 149 am–Adult Forum [L]9:30 am–SundaySchool RALLY DAY[F]10:30 am–PraiseWorship [LP]~11:30 am–ChurchPicnic [LP]

156:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]OFFICE CLOSED3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7 pm–Boy Scouts [F]7 pm–Mental HealthSupport Group [L]

OCTOBERNEWSLETTERDEADLINE

166:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]9 am–Quilters [L]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30 pm–Cub Scouts[F]

176:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7:30 pm–Senior ChoirRehearsal [NV]7:30 pm–VentureCrews [F]AARP in Parking Lot

18 6:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]

196:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30-11 pm–ChessClub [L]

20

21 PENTECOST 156:30 am–Mission Team@ St. Paul’s9 am–Adult Forum [L]9:30 am–SundaySchool [F]10:30 am–WorshipRite for WholenessGuest Pastor-Rev.Jerry Roungs

226:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]OFFICE CLOSED3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7 pm–Boy Scouts [F]

23 FALL BEGINS6:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30 pm–Cub Scouts[F]

24ROSH HASHANNAH6:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7 pm–AA [L]7:30 pm–Senior ChoirRehearsal [NV]

256:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7 pm–3D [L]

266:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30-11 pm–ChessClub [L]

278 am-3 pm–CouncilPlanning Session [L or F]

28 PENTECOST 169 am–Adult Forum [L]9:30 am–SundaySchool [F]10:30 am–Worship

296:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]OFFICE CLOSED3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]7 pm–Boy Scouts [F]

306:45-7:30 am–TLABefore Care [F]11 am-3 pm–OfficeOpen3:30-5:30 pm–TLAAfter Care [F]6:30 pm–Cub Scouts[F]

SYNOD NEWS The Spirit of Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA September 2014

Are you feeling a little “behind the times” when it comes to the computer and the Internet? Check out this fun (and free) website, Teach Parents Tech (www.teachparentstech.org). Or if you know someone who might appreciate a free lesson, go to the Teach Parents Tech website and send a tech support “care package.” This website will make you smile! 

Spend a day with Meredith Gould, author of The Social Media Gospel: Sharing the Good News in New Ways. Explore social media platforms and how we can use social media for ministry.  

Five hundred years ago the Gutenberg press changed the way the gospel was communicated and shared. Today, the Internet and various social media platforms (such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram) are this generation's 

Gutenberg press. If we want to communicate the gospel effectively with people today, we need to move beyond newsletters and once‐a‐week sermons. For today’s generation, communication is “in the moment.” 

Social media tools provide exciting new ways of sharing the gospel with others. Meredith will help participants become more comfortable and less anxious about these tools through three presentations: Strategy and Tactics, Social Media Tools, and Making Sure Your Church Website Works. 

This timely event will be held October 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Muhlenberg College’s 

Moyer Hall. Because the event is being underwritten partially by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod’s Prosser Pahse Fund, the cost to participants is only $30. Attendees may be interested in purchasing Meredith’s book, 

which will be available for sale at the event. We are inviting our Moravian and Episcopalian partners to participate as well, providing us with an opportunity to learn and network with one another.  

Finally, a word from Meredith: “Be prepared to learn and laugh a lot!” 

For more information about the event and registration, click the title of the event under Events — Events for Everyone at www.godslove.org 

Share Stories with a New Brochure Use this colorful brochure with your congregation to share stories about ministries of the synod funded by mission support giving . Download the brochure at www.godslove.org under Resources — Stewardship — Mission Support. To order the brochure, send an email requesting the brochure and the quantity you need to Georgia 

Suranofsky at georgiasuranofsky@hotmail.com. 

Synod News is published monthly by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA; 2354 Grove Road, Allentown PA 18109; 610‐266‐5101; info@nepsynod.org; www.godslove.org 

Reclaiming Jubilee: Following the Star in Bethlehem

Bethlehem is the host city for the 2014 Reclaiming Jubilee event, the social justice experience for youth in grades 9‐12. 

Reclaiming Jubilee, to be held December 28‐30 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, will explore issues facing the homeless and the aging from a social, cultural, historical and religious perspective. Participating youth will serve in an emergency homeless shelter, spend time with participants at a local senior citizen center, get to know the city of Bethlehem, learn about restorative justice, and have fun together. 

For more information, go to the synod website (www.godslove.org) and follow the links under Events/Events for Youth Ministry. This event is limited to the first 25 youth who register. Save the date! 

Volume 22, Issue 8 Synod News Senior High Youth Leadership Training Event (aka Faith‐a‐Palooza) What: Faith‐a‐Palooza focuses on leadership training for youth in 9th through 12th grades. This year the focus is on developing planning skills that will be useful in all aspects of life. Learn how to plan events, teach a class, or make a creative idea for ministry happen in your congregation. This event will be helpful for youth who are attending the ELCA youth gathering in 2015. When: November 7‐9, 2014 Cost: $128 (provides room and board: 1 dinner, 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch) Location: Kenbrook Christian Retreat and Conference Center, Lebanon, PA For more information, visit www.godslove.org and follow the links under Events — Events for Youth 

Have You Visited the New Synod Website? Check out the all‐new website of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod at www.godslove.org. The website has a brand new layout and design. It’s easy to navigate. It’s easy to find what you are looking for. It’s a wealth of helpful information and terrific pictures of people and events. 

Here’s some of the things you’ll find on the site: 

Events by category.  A colorful page showing all of our synod partners  Stories of faith in action – lots of them  Information about the synod resource center and online catalogue 

That’s just a taste of what you will find on the new site. Wander around the site. Discover all that is available to you with just a click or two. You will find site at the same address: www.godslove.org. 

Stewardship: Living by Faith, Stories of Hope Grace Duddy, our 2014 synod assembly keynote speaker, will lead a 3‐hour workshop focusing 

on tools for moving a congrega‐tion’s concept of stewardship ministry beyond mundane matters such as paying the bills to exciting people about the ways in which their giving makes possible ministries that transform people’s lives. The workshop will be offered twice:  September 13, 9 a.m.‐noon at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Trexlertown  September 14, 2‐5 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Wilkes‐Barre 

For more information, click the event title under Events/Events for Everyone on the synod website. 

Bishop Zeiser Announces Staff Changes Read more in the E‐News link under Publications on the synod website. 

September 2014 Volume 19, No. 8

The Rev. Jerel W. Gade, Dean 610-966-3030 Mr. Joshua Fink, Mission District Chair 484-358-5720 The Rev. Glenn L. Simmons, Assoc. of the Bishop 610-928-0125 Mrs. Linda Smith, Newsletter Editor 610-437-9927

LMD website: www.lehighlutherans.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

October 2014 LMD NL news will be due September 10th. E-Mail any information to me at lmd.newslettereditor@gmail.com. Attic Treasures Sale – St. John’s Lutheran Church (1028 Church Street, Fogelsville) will be having an indoor sale of various “attic treasures” (new and gently used items including: clothing, toys, books, jewelry and more) The sale will be held from 8 AM-2 PM on Fri, Sept 5th and Sat, Sept 6th. There will be lunch items and baked goods available both days. For more info call 610-395-5535 or visit www.stjohns-fogelsville.org. We hope to see you there! Adult Ministry Fest - An event is being held in our area for those of us who are living the “second half” of our lives – that is, the over 50 age group. If you are in this age group: Have you ever felt like your faith is on hold, no longer growing? Have you been tempted to slump back in your pew and watch while others take over? Have you wondered where you can get help for dealing with life’s second half challenges? If these or other questions have troubled you, Sat, Sept 6th is a day to be inspired to grow in your faith, to consider opportunities to be involved in living out your faith, and to find some concrete help for the challenges of this part of life. It will be held at Jordan Lutheran Church, just off route 309 north of Allentown from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. It will include an inspiring keynote speaker, several workshops, and joyful worship. Lunch is included in the $15.00 registration fee. To register, contact the ELCA-NEP Synod office at 610-266-5101. Join Cedar Cetronia – to dedicate their new “Walker III/67 Organ” on Sun, Sept 7th with a free concert at 3 pm. Rebecca Kleintop Owens, Director of Music at Central Moravian Church of Bethlehem will be performing. Cedar Church, 3419 Broadway, Allentown, PA. Please join us for a time of celebration! The CROP Hunger Walk Planning Team is hosting a community Kick-Off Party on Sun, Sept 7th from 1:30-3:00 pm at St. Timothy’s Lutheran (Ott & Walnut) to celebrate the beginning of the Allentown Area CROP Hunger Walk’s 35th Anniversary. Enjoy free food and fellowship, learn about hunger, and pick up your church’s Walk materials. Dr. Jennings and Dr. Bahmann Present Lectures at Luther Crest The public is cordially invited to attend Dr. Bill Jennings’ lecture, “Buddhism 101,” on Tues, Sept 30th, 2:30 p.m., as well as Dr. Manfred Bahmann’s lecture, “What, If Anything, Is God Doing?,” on Tues, Oct 21st , 2:30 p.m., in Crest Hall of Luther Crest, 800 Hausman Road, Allentown, PA 18104. Fall Basket Social – St. John’s Lutheran Church (1028 Church St, Fogelsville) will be holding a basket raffle on Sat, Oct 4th from 10 AM-2 PM. Drawings for the 50+ different themed baskets will be at 1:30 PM, you do not need to be present to win. Various consultants and products will also be on hand (including Premier Jewelry and Tastefully Simple). There will be lunch items and baked goods available, as well as jars of homemade chow-chow. For more info call 610-395-5535 or visit www.stjohns-fogelsville.org. All are welcome! Free Akaloo Sunday school Books - Free to a church that can use them... a variety of Akaloo books and materials. Contact Grace LC in Macungie at gracemacungie@verizon.net or 610-966-3325

The East Berks Mission District is very excited to be planning a Fabulous Fall Fling for this Oct 4th, from 1 – 4 pm. We have been working closely with the folks at The Lutheran Home at Topton in planning this event that promises to take over the entire Topton campus [well a lot of it!] as we provide all kinds of fun activities, music, food, information, and fellowship that will surely make it a great afternoon. Please plan to join us as we explore the various ways we can be all God has made us to be. Everything is free so it will be a great way to spend a beautiful fall afternoon. [Rain date –Sun, Oct 5th, from 1–4 pm.] “Theology, Literature and Coffee” Luther Crest will host a Moravian Theological Seminary-sponsored course, which will be held 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Luther Crest, 800 Hausman Road, Allentown, on Mon, Oct 6, Oct 20, and Nov 3. Enjoy a time of learning and fellowship as theological themes in selected literature are presented and discussed. Cost for the series is $20 with early registration discount before Sept. 22nd ($25 after 9/22/14), and beverages will be provided. To register, please contact Moravian Theological Seminary (610-861-1516) or Luther Crest Chaplain Dianne Kareha (610-391-8210). Books to be discussed are: Oct. 6: Dracula by Bram Stoker, Oct. 20: “Foster” by Claire Keegan, Nov. 3rd: The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula LeGuin. Greater Allentown Crop Hunger Walk: Sun., Oct. 12, 2014, 1:30 p.m., beginning and ending at St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, 140 S. Ott St., Allentown, with registration starting at 1 p.m. The CROP Hunger Walk is a great fellowship and service event for families, youth groups, adult groups, and congregations. Twenty-five percent of the funds raised by the CROP Hunger Walk returns to the Lehigh Valley to support the Allentown Area Ecumenical Food Bank and the Lehigh County Conference of Churches Soup Kitchen. The remaining 75% is used by Church World Service for disaster relief (e.g., for communities in the United States and around the world devastated by tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods) and development assistance (e.g., assisting poor families with clean drinking water, seeds, tools, and irrigation). For more information, for a sponsor form, please contact your own congregation or the Lehigh County Conference of Churches (610-433-6421). Log on at www.cropwalk.org for further information about CROP or for making online donations.

Journeys Through Grief will be held starting Oct 15th –Nov 19th from 7-8:30 p.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ, 139 N. 4th St., Emmaus. The facilitator will be Sylvia Havlish. You can register by calling LCS at 610-770-9205. The is no fee to attend this event since it is sponsored by Schantz Funeral Home and Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Homes. LCS will hold a Workshop for Confirmands on Oct. 19th, 2-4:30 p.m. at the Lutheran Home at Topton. You can register by calling the LCS office at 610-770-9205. We have room for 25 youth. Volunteers needed: bi-lingual volunteer needed to make phone calls for 1-3 hours per week, gift shop at the Allentown Campus, pediatric unit, accompany residents on outings, and special occasions. For additional information call JoAnn Frey, Volunteer Coordinator at 610-776-3125 or apply on line at www.goodshepherdrehab.org.

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COOPERATION IS NOT A DIRTY WORD

Since its beginning the Church has always had an emphasis on doing ministry together. Jesus himself had twelve others to assist him. And let us not forget that the disciples were sent out in pairs! Ministry is done with others – in community. For us, part of that community is the relationship we have with other congregations in our Lehigh Mission District. Together we are greater than any of our separate congregations. With our ever dwindling resources this becomes even more important. As we begin a new year of programming, my hope is that more of us would reach out and join hands in partnership. Some of those partnerships will be new ones, while others have been in existence for years. Some will involve only a few minutes of our time, or dollars; while others will entail a more substantial commitment on our parts. Yet each, in its own way, will invite others to know and experience the amazing grace of God. As rostered leaders we will be meeting monthly to build relationships, as well as engage in programs that will add to our ministry skills, both as individuals and as a Mission District. As a Mission District we will continue to support those congregations already engaged in the process of doing ministry together. And to those who are thinking about entering a partnership, know we are there to help – both with monetary and people resources! We are blessed in our Mission District to have a diverse combination of congregations, leaders, and ministry opportunities. Some of those combinations, or partnerships in ministry, even involve a different denomination than our own ELCA. Cooperation is not a dirty word! In the coming months may the Holy Spirit show us the way to continue to do ministry in His name, to bring others to know Jesus, in an ever changing society. Pastor Jerel Gade, Dean

OPERATION SUNSHINE 36 S. 8th St, Allentown, PA 18101

Open Mon 11-3 Wed. 9-4 LMDopsunshine@aol.com

610-435-9155 Paula & Dick Skelly Co-Trip Coordinators

Day of Trip Emergency Number 610-417-3286

Operation Sunshine is a non-profit fellowship opportunity within our Mission District, run solely by volunteers. Please join us and

invite your friends as we enjoy a variety of venues together. *****************

Sept. 9 (Tues.) 6:30 PM - Informational Meeting Tour the Northern National Parks with Collette Travel – Sept. 12 to 19, 2015. St. Michael Evan. Lutheran Church of the Nativity, 4004 Tilghman St., Allentown, PA. Call the Operation Sunshine Office to reserve your spot for the meeting. Oct. 15 (Wed.) - Mount Airy – Kenny Rogers/Dolly Parton Review – These look and sound alike performers will make you believe that they are really Kenny and Dolly. Enjoy a fabulous buffet lunch and $25 free slot play at the beautiful Mount Airy Resort and Casino. Bus leaves St. Timothy's at 9:45 AM and will return approximately 5:45 PM. Cost $56 Payment Deadline: Wed., Sept. 25.

Nov. 6 (Thur) – Penn's Peak – The Glenn Miller Orchestra - In June of 2011, the Glenn Miller Orchestra celebrated their 55th Anniversary of continuous touring. Always a sell-out concert! Family style lunch at Penn's Peak is included with this trip. Bus leaves St. Timothy's at 10:30 AM and will return approximately 4:30 PM. Cost $86 Payment Deadline: Mon., Oct. 20. Dec. 11 (Thur.) - It's a Wonderful Life – Dutch Apple Theatre, Lancaster, PA - The story of George Bailey and his wonderful life remains a timeless fable of dreams and love as he finds out what life would have been like without him. Enjoy with heart-warming Christmas classic along with a wonderful buffet lunch as only the Dutch Apple Theatre can do. Bus leaves St. Timothy's at 10:00 AM and will return approximately 5:00 PM. Cost $90 Payment Deadline: Wed., Nov. 19.

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LCS’s Refugee Resettlement case workers would like to thank everyone for their generous donations. At this time, we are in dire need of the following items: pillows, mops, brooms, vacuum cleaners, twin sheet sets, twin blankets, bathroom and kitchen waste cans, alarm clocks, bathroom boxes (from Welcome Box list), and microwaves. Items can be dropped off at our office Monday through Friday between 8-12 and 1-4. We are also in need of apartment sized furniture such as chests of drawers/dressers, kitchen tables and chairs, living room small sofas/loveseats/chairs, end tables, etc. (NO BEDS). Please call Ammar at 484-542-9849 to arrange for pickup of items. Muhlenberg College Chapel invites you to join us for worship any Sunday evening during the academic year. Worship is at 5:30 p.m. in Egner Chapel, followed by dinner in the Hoffman House at Muhlenberg. If you are interested in bringing your confirmation students or high school youth to join us for worship, and/or your congregation would be willing to provide a Sunday dinner for Muhlenberg students, please contact Chaplain Callista Isabelle for scheduling and more information: cisabelle@muhlenberg.edu. Speakers Available: Luther Crest has a variety of speakers available to speak to congregations, adult Sunday school classes, organizations such as women’s and men’s groups, Bible studies, seniors groups, and youth groups. Topics include: Alzheimer's Disease/Dementia, Depression, Elder Care, Caring for the Caregiver, Senior Housing Options, Continuum of Care, Living with Loss/Grief Support, Communicating during Times of Conflict, Prayer, and Scripture Studies. For more information or to schedule a speaker, please contact Rev. Dianne Kareha, Diakon Chaplain for Luther Crest 610-391-8210. Can you provide an hour or two per week to help someone who wants to change their life? St. Luke’s at 417 N 7th St, Allentown still has an ongoing need for volunteers to assist as tutors or substitutes for our growing multi-level ESL program for individuals who desperately want to learn English. No foreign language needed. Contact Leslie Talago or Pastor Lamb at 610-434-3943 or stluke@enter.net for class times and orientation sessions.