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The Monthly Epistle VOLUME 61, ISSUE 4
APRIL 2017
“A Journey to Hope:
A Cantata Inspired by Spirituals” Palm Sunday, April 9
The Senior Choir cordially invites you to join
them on Palm Sunday, April 9, at 10:30 a.m. as
they present for God’s glory the Lenten cantata “A
Journey to Hope” by Joseph M. Martin.
“This major sacred work is musically inspired
by traditional spirituals and tells of the ministry,
passion and resurrection of Jesus through familiar
tunes, narration and scriptures.
From the rhythmic vitality of ‘Ride On King
Jesus’ to the languishing strains of ‘They
Crucified My Lord,’ from the stately dignity of
‘Give Me Jesus’ this work delivers both ministry
and artistry. Presented with an ensemble and
piano , you will find ‘A Journey To Hope’ a
unique and effective cantata experience.”
Please invite others to join us as we enter Holy
Week with this beautiful work and journey nearer
to the Cross of Christ.
Jared Gordon, Music Director
Good Friday Drama:
“The Cross of Christ”
Friday, April 14, at 8:00 p.m.
Everyone is invited to attend the Good Friday
Drama, "The Cross of Christ," on Friday, April 14,
at 8:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
This drama will provide a way in which we might
better understand the sacrifice Jesus Christ suffered
through his death on the cross. "The Cross of
Christ" is based on Dr. C. Truman Davis’ “The
Crucifixion: A Medical View.” Davis is a medical
doctor whose insight into the crucifixion story allows
us to understand how real Jesus’ pain was. Often we
can move too quickly beyond Good Friday to get to
Easter Sunday. The Good Friday Drama will give us
an opportunity to slow down and reflect on all that
Jesus has done for us.
REMINDER: Participants in the Good Friday
Drama will practice following the Wednesday Lenten
Evening services at 7:15 p.m. in the Sanctuary. After
the Maundy Thursday evening service, a dress
rehearsal will be held around 7:45 p.m.
DUE TO HOLY WEEK, ALL BULLETIN
ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 16,
WILL NEED TO BE TURNED INTO THE CHURCH
OFFICE ON MONDAY, APRIL 10, BY 10:00 A.M.
2
God's Promises For You For You Suffering Ill Health
Dear Neighbor,
Grace and Peace in Christ, who is our peace and comfort. It seems to me that your current
suffering of ill health is your own "thorn in the flesh" as St. Paul says, "So to keep me
from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn
was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited." (2
Corinthians 12:7) While I am sorry you must suffer this current thorn, there is a promise for you in your
suffering. St. Paul puts it this way, "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the
image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers." (Romans 8:29) I believe
this current trial comes to you, as it does to all Christians from time to time, in order that you may be humbled
and made into the image of your Lord who suffered all things for you.
So where can you go when suffering ill health? To God's promises. "Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let
your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!" (Psalm 27:14) Let your heart take courage, be comforted, and
wait for the Lord just as the Scriptures instruct. For power is made perfect in weakness, just as St. Paul
proclaimed concerning his own trial, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is
made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of
Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:9) God is faithful to you, and has not abandoned you at this
time, "God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord." (1
Corinthians 1:9) God's work in you is not done, conforming you into the image of his Son, teaching humility
and patience, filling you with the power of Christ, showing his faithfulness to you: "And I am sure of this,
that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." This is all most
certainly true!
I encourage you to be confident in the Lord, and resist the lies of the devil who would tempt you to doubt. You
are not alone in your ill health, since all of us will suffer the same as you are now, "Resist him, firm in your
faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the
world." (1 Peter 5:9) We must support each other and be supported, confident that it is Christ who has
supported us from the beginning and will support us to the end! We cannot always be healthy and strong, nor
can we always be ill and weak. Our ill health or good health ultimately rests on him who calls, gathers,
enlightens and sanctifies: the Holy Spirit. "The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you
do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit." (John
3:8) Through such suffering, the Spirit teaches us not to be arrogant, as we would be if we were always
healthy and strong; and also not to despair, as we would be if we were always ill and weak. We are better off
to recognize who we are before the Lord and call it what it is: "For he knows our frame; he remembers that
we are dust." (Psalm 103:14) We are better off to remember who we are and where we came from. We are
dust, but by the grace of God we are beloved, cherished, forgiven, renewed, resurrected, sanctified, and chosen
children of God!
From the Pastor
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How can I say such things to you? Because we are brothers and sisters in Christ, and need to lend a hand to
each other in this vale of tears, until the day comes for which we hope. Remember that you are Christ's, and he
is yours! Therefore, let your heart be comforted and wait on the Lord who said to St. Paul, "My strength is
made perfect in weakness." God is faithful. By him you are called. He will perform a good work in you until
the day of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Peace in Christ,
Your Friend
Welcome, Happy Morning!" by Venantius Fortunatus, c. 530-609
Translated by John Ellerton, 1826-1893
"Welcome, happy morning!" Age to age shall say;
Hell today is vanquished, heaven is won today!"
Lo, the Dead is living, God forevermore!
Him, their true Creator, all His works adore.
"Welcome, happy morning!" age to age shall say;
Hell today is vanquished, heaven is won today!"
Maker and Redeemer, Life and Health of all,
Thou from heaven beholding human nature's fall,
Of the Father's Godhead, true and only Son.
Manhood to deliver manhood didst put on.
"Welcome, happy morning!" age to age shall say;
Hell today is vanquished, heaven is won today!"
Thou, of life the Author, death didst undergo,
Tread the path of darkness, saving strength to show.
Come, then, True and Faithful, now fulfil Thy word;
'Tis Thine own third morning--rise, 0 buried Lord!
"Welcome, happy morning!" age to age shall say;
Hell today is vanquished, heaven is won today!"
Loose the souls long prisoned, bound with Satan's chain;
All that now is fallen raise to life again.
Show Thy face in brightness, bid the nations see;
Bring again our daylight; day returns with Thee.
"Welcome, happy morning!" age to age shall say;
Hell today is vanquished, heaven is won today!"
4
HOLY WEEK
Palm Sunday, April 9
10:30 a.m. out front to process in the Sanctuary with Palms (weather permitting)
On the sixth Sunday of Lent we commemorate Jesus' triumphal entry into
Jerusalem. Throngs of crowds, already visiting the city to celebrate the
Passover, waved palm branches and proclaimed Jesus as the messianic king
- that is, the descendant of King David who would restore the Kingdom of
Israel.
Palm Sunday is also known as Passion Sunday to mark the beginning of
Holy Week and Jesus' final journey to the cross. Though today the word
“passion” has a more general meaning, the English word traces its roots to the Latin word passus, “to suffer.”
The celebratory nature of Palm Sunday is tempered by the realization that God's plan is coming to fruition.
Passion Sunday provides an opportunity to ponder the suffering and death of Jesus, so that we can better
appreciate the joy of the Easter (resurrection) celebration. In this context it is not unusual for the entire Gospel
lesson to consist of the complete Passion text (Matthew 26:1-27:66, Mark 14:1-15:47, Luke 22:1-23:56, and
John 18:1-19:42).
Everyone will gather in front of the church on PALM SUNDAY and process in with palms, weather
permitting. Our Senior Choir will be presenting “A Journey to Hope” by Joseph M. Martin during worship.
Maundy Thursday, April 13
11:00 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary
The word "Maundy" is derived from "Mandatus", the first
word in the Latin translation of John 13:34: “A new
commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I
have loved you, you also are to love one another.”
The Jewish holy day of Passover had begun at sunset on
Thursday; while Jesus and his disciples had gathered to observe
this festival, Jesus used this as yet another opportunity to teach and
instruct his disciples -- both those present with him then and those of us today. During the celebration of the
Passover, Jesus' words of instruction at His last supper with them laid the foundation for our sacrament of
Holy Communion. Jesus also washed the feet of his disciples, an act of hospitality practiced during his life but
also a symbol of Christians' need to humble ourselves in service to others.
After the meal Jesus and his disciples go to the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus prayed while his followers
struggled to stay awake. While in the garden, Roman soldiers (led by Judas Iscariot) arrive to arrest Jesus.
During the remainder of the night Jesus is tried by the Sanhedrin and by Pontius Pilate (the Roman governor of
Judea) and sentenced to death.
At our 6:30 p.m. service our first time communicants will celebrate Holy Communion and at the conclusion
of the evening service, the chancel is stripped reminding us of the New Covenant that God made with his
people in the bloody sacrifice and death of his Son our Lord, Jesus Christ, at Calvary.
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GOOD FRIDAY, APRIL 14 11:00 a.m. & 8:000 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Good Friday, the Friday preceding Easter Sunday, commemorates the
crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death on Golgotha. Note that the Jewish holy
day of Passover was still taking place (having started the previous evening);
during this time lambs were sacrificed at the Temple in atonement for sin.
Christians point to Jesus as the "Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the
world," as his crucifixion and death parallels the sacrifices being made on this same day.
Jesus died before sunset on Friday (tradition held his death took place around 'the ninth hour', around 3:00
p.m.) and buried (interred) in a tomb hewn from solid rock. His entombment had to be completed before
sunset Friday, the start of the Sabbath (day of rest) Thus Friday was the first day Jesus lay in the tomb.
At the 8:00 p.m. service, a Good Friday drama, “The Cross of Christ,” will be presented.
EASTER also called PASCH (derived, through Latin Pascha) or
RESURRECTION SUNDAY April 16 at 6:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.
ALLELUIA! CHRIST IS RISEN!
CHRIST IS RISEN INDEED! ALLELUIA!
The season of Easter begins with this salutation, and focuses on the most
important religious event in Christendom -- the resurrection of our Lord
Jesus Christ following his crucifixion.
Easter is a moveable feast, meaning it is not fixed in relation to the civil calendar. The First Council of
Nicaea (325) established the date of Easter as the first Sunday after the Paschal Full Moon, the full moon that
occurs on or soonest after March 21 (taken to be the date of the equinox). Ecclesiastically, the equinox is thus
reckoned to be on March 21 (although the astronomical equinox occurs on March 20 in most years), and the
"Full Moon" is not necessarily on the astronomically correct date. The date of Easter therefore varies from
March 22 to April 25 inclusive within about seven days after the astronomical full moon.
Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover by much of its symbolism, as well as by its position in the calendar. In
many languages, the words for "Easter" and "Passover" are identical or very similar.
The Easter Holiday is also the start of a church season that lasts for fifty days (sometimes referred to as "a
week of weeks.") During this fifty day period Christ ministered to his disciples and instructed them on their
mission into the world. Of course, Christians refer to themselves as the Easter People, and our belief in the
power of the Resurrection emboldens us to proclaim the Good News not just on one day, not just for an hour on
Sunday, but every day of the year!
The EASTER SERVICES will begin at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday morning, April 16, with the SUNRISE SERVICE
including special music and Holy Communion. The EASTER BREAKFAST will begin following the Sunrise
Service in the Fellowship Hall and served by our youth groups. After the breakfast, everyone is invited to
Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Our EASTER SERVICE will begin at 10:30 a.m., again celebrating the triumphant
resurrection message with special music and Holy Communion. Weather permitting, both services will be
concluded in the cemetery. Plan to be present on the holiest day of the Church year as we celebrate Christ's
victory over the grave.
6
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70+ Banquet Sunday, April 2,
in the Fellowship Hall following Worship
Following the worship service on Sunday, April
2, we will be honoring our members who are
70 years old and older for their commitment
and love to St. Paul's over the years. We will
be honoring them with a meal and fellowship.
Debbie Suggs will be catering the meal. The cost
of the meal is $8.00 A PLATE (Adults), $4.00 (3-12
years), and FREE (2 and under and our 70+
members). Menu consists of: BAR-B-QUE CHICKEN,
COUNTRY STYLE STEAK, CREAMED POTATOES, SALAD
WITH SPECIAL DRESSING, GREEN BEANS, AND DESSERT
– the FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE will provide the
plates, tea, etc.
There will be a basket on the table at the banquet
in which to place your money. We hope those who
are able will give additional money to help defray
the cost of the meal honoring those 70+.
Each member of the Fellowship Committee needs
to bring 2 gallons of tea.
Mid-Week Lenten Service and Supper Wednesday, April 5
11:00 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.
5:30 p.m. Supper in Fellowship Hall
Don’t forget that we will have a Lenten Service on
Wednesday, April 5, as well as dinner that evening
prepared and served by the Bonnie Bost Circle.
DEADLINE for Lilies/Geraniums orders is
Sunday, April 2. Forms are located in the blue
insert on Sunday, April 2,and on the back of the
April newsletter.
The Executive Committee will meet Tuesday,
April 4, at 6:30 p.m. in the Counting Room.
The Church Council will meet Sunday, April 9,
at 8:00 a.m. in the Conference Room.
The Sunday School is sponsoring our annual
EASTER EGG HUNT for children in Nursery – 12th
grade. The Easter Egg Hunt will be held on
Saturday, April 15, from 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
All children (Nursery - 12th grade) are asked to
please bring a basket for the Easter Egg Hunt.
Plastic eggs and prizes will be provided for the
hunt.
Your friends and family are invited to participate
in this year's Easter Egg Hunt. Refreshments will
be provided.
The Grade, Middle, and High School Youth are
to please bring 1 pack of 18 eggs per family by
1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 15, to the Kitchen.
FIRST COMMUNION INSTRUCTION
Instruction for "First Communion" will be held
in the Chapel on Saturday, April 8, from 10:00
a.m. - 12 noon. The class is for all youth in the
4th grade or higher who are not presently
receiving communion. One parent is requested to
attend with their child. Please call the church
office if you are unable to attend at this time, so
that we can look at setting up another date. Thank
you!
There will be no Wednesday Services, on April
12, during Holy Week, and April 19, following
Easter.
WEDNESDAY EVENING SERVICES WILL
CONTINUE ON APRIL 26 AT 6:30 P.M. IN THE
SANCTUARY FOLLOWING THE SEASON OF LENT.
EASTER SERVICES ON APRIL 16 Please remember to bring flowers from your yard for the ivy-covered cross on Easter Sunday.
EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE at 6:30 a.m. with special music and Holy Communion.
EASTER BREAKFAST at 7:30 a.m. served by our Youth program. The menu consists of: country ham, eggs,
sausage, grits, and biscuits.
SUNDAY SCHOOL at 9:30 a.m.
EASTER SERVICE at 10:30 a.m. again celebrating the resurrection message with special music and Holy
Communion.
Help is needed to setup the tables for the Easter
Breakfast following the evening Good Friday
service; those that can help are asked to meet in
the Fellowship Hall. Thank you.
Friendship Club News…
The Friendship Club will meet Thursday, April
20, at 10:30 a.m. in the church parking lot to
carpool to Fading D Farm. This is a water
buffalo ranch. We will tour the farm and learn
how water buffalo cheese (Mozzarella) is made.
Lunch is to be determined after the tour and before
we return to the church. The admission cost to the
farm is $3.00 per person. Please contact me if you
will be joining us on April 20. Thank you!
Helen Gordon
JDRF Walk
On April 22nd, at Carowinds, I’ll again have the
honor to lead a Walk team of other adults with T1D.
I was bursting with pride over our success last year
(we raised more than $6,000) and St. Paul’s ab-
solutely was a big reason why that happened. I’d
love to beat my own personal goal of $3,500 and for
our team to beat our goal of $7,500 and I’d love
your help doing it.
If you’re interested in donating, please go to my
Walk page at http://www2.jdrf.org/goto/
scottwilhelm. If you prefer to donate via cash or
check, we can do that as well. Just contact me at
Any amount given would be appreciated more
than you can know!
Scott Wilhelm
8
The Church Office will be closed on Good
Friday following the morning service and on
Easter Monday, April 17, in observance of
Easter.
ROWAN HELPING MINISTRIES
St. Paul's donated to the ROWAN HELPING
MINISTRIES 40 pounds for the month of
February. Thank you all for your continued
support and ministry!
RHM items for April are: Canned Spaghetti and
Meatballs, Spaghetti Noodles, Corned Beef Hash,
Saltine Crackers, Vienna Sausage, Pudding Cups
(not refrigerated)
Would you like to hear the sermon again? Did
you know that our website has worship recordings?
If you click on this link you will go straight to the
recordings http://www.splcweb.org/#/worship-
recordings.
Our website (www.splcweb.org) is a great place to
learn more about what’s going on in our
congregation.
The LUTHERAN MEN will meet at the VA for
BINGO on Tuesday, April 18, at 6:30 p.m.
RIGHTNOW MEDIA
Two years ago St. Paul’s Lutheran Church became a member of RightNow Media.
RightNow Media is a non-profit organization that firmly believe The Mission of the Church Matters.
Everything they do is rooted in the belief that the church (people not buildings) can have a powerful impact
on this world.
They serve over 10,000 churches each year and are like “Netflix for the church” because RightNow Media
has a huge library with thousands of video sessions that people can access anytime, anywhere. Their creative
team films and produces RightNow Media Originals featuring teaching from respected teachers and pastors.
They also distribute video resources produced by over 100 other major Christian publishers and ministries.
Learn more at http://rightnowmedia.org/.
On Sunday, April 23, at 9:30 a.m. the Christian Education Committee is sponsoring a RightNow Media
presentation for K-Adults during Sunday School in the Fellowship Hall. All are invited!
9
The next meeting of the YOUTH & FAMILY
COMMITTEE will be on Sunday, April 23, at
2:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.
This meeting is open to youth parents and
congregation members interested in participating
with our youth ministry.
St. Paul's Lutheran Men will meet on
Thursday, April 20, with a meal at 6:30 p.m. in
the Fellowship Hall. All men are invited and
encouraged to join us!
10
PARISH NURSE NEWS…
Women of Faith will meet
Thursday, April 6, at 11:00
a.m. in the Conference Room.
After the Bible Study they will
go out to eat lunch.
The Parish Nurse Ministry sponsored
HOPE CLASS will meet Tuesday, April
11, at 1:00 p.m. in the Counting Room.
Keys to Caregiving Conference
The demands of caring for a loved one can be overwhelming. The Keys to Caregiving Conference is here to
help. Hosted by the Rowan County senior services of Lutheran Services Carolinas, this event will address
many of the concerns of family and professional caregivers.
This 2nd annual free conference is Tuesday, April 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Trinity Oaks, 728
Klumac Road, Salisbury, NC 28144. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. and lunch is provided. Participants will
have the opportunity to ask questions to a panel of experts on senior issues. Special guest Melanie Bunn will
also speak. Trained by Teepa Snow, one of America’s leading educators on dementia, Bunn has worked in a
variety of settings caring for seniors. She travels across the country sharing caregiving knowledge with
others.
To reserve your spot for this free event, RSVP to Brittany Rabon at 704-603-2776. Free adult day care is
also available for your loved one during the conference time.
11
LUTHERAN WOMEN’S NEWS…
St. Paul’s Lutheran Women will have their
next QUARTERLY MEETING on Sunday,
April 2, at 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Ellen
Bumgarner Circle will be sharing the devotions.
All women are invited to attend!
Kathy Ketchie Circle will meet Sunday, April 2, at 4:00 p.m. with Nicole Amos as hostess/leader. Those
present will attend the quarterly meeting at 5:00 p.m.
The Lutheran Women sponsors a Birthday Party
at Trinity Oaks Health & Rehab (Lutheran Home) on
Tuesday, April 11, at 2:30 p.m. All are invited to
participate in this wonderful ministry!
April Showers?? Who knows? I thank God everyday for the blessings he has bestowed on our church
family. We will continue to collect Pennies for Hope for Crossnore School during the remainder of Lent.
Crossnore School is located in Avery County and offers a stable, emotionally supportive, educational environ-
ment for children with special needs or those abandoned by their parents. So if you have any spare change in
your pocket, it would appreciate it.
The Ladies will have the Quarterly Meeting on Sunday, April 2nd, at 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel.
Some of the circles will be assisting with the Lenten meals. The circles have been asked to furnish a raffle
basket for the Cruise In and Barbecue on April 29, as well as make baked goods for the Cruise In.
Terri Powlas, Lutheran Women’s President
RAFFLE & DOOR PRIZE DONATION
DROP-OFF FOR CRUISE ‘N BARBECUE
Donations of Raffle or door prizes may be dropped
off in the counting room – please attach the form that
will be available on the table, so we know the
contributor and the appropriate thanks and
acknowledgements can be sent. THANK YOU for
your help! (Please see the related article on page 12
concerning raffle donations, for suggestions.)
2017 CRUISE ‘N BARBECUE - SATURDAY, APRIL 29 One of the best days of the year!
Planning Is Underway!
Less than 5 weeks until the April 29th 2017 St.
Paul's Cruise 'n Barbecue!
The planning committee is excited to announce that
proceeds from this year's event will be dedicated to
Mike and Becky Sifford. (Many of you already
know that Becky is Helen Wagoner’s daughter, and
Cindy Hinson’s sister.)
Mike suffered a stroke recently and is unable to
work. Both Mike and Becky have devoted their lives
to helping others - particularly cancer patients,
through Mike's numerous barbecues to benefit Relay
for Life, and Becky through her previous business,
Becky's Hair Solutions.
April 29th promises to be another great day of, cars,
bikes, music, food, raffles and just plain fun as we
honor Becky and Mike! Such a wonderful event is
made possible only by the devotion of you - the 160+
St. Paul’s church family members who give so freely
of your time and talents. Watch for volunteer sign up
sheets in the weekly Epistle.
In the mean time, please check in often to like and
share the regular updates on the Cruise ‘n Barbecue
F a c e b o o k p a g e ( w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m /
stpaulscruisenbarbecue).
Thank you! Cruise ‘n Barbecue Planning Committee
RAFFLES, RAFFLES AND MORE RAF-
FLES
It is time to begin gathering items for our Cruise
‘n Barbecue Raffle Baskets. As in the past we
would like for each Lutheran Women’s Circle to
provide a basket and church members to create a
basket or donate items. All baskets and donations
will be greatly appreciated.
Last year some of the top ticketed items were:
$500 Food Lion Gift Card, Quilt, Cheerwine
Bench, Picnic Table, Fire Pit, Bistro Set, Garden
Cart & Chair, Gas Grill, Wheelbarrow and
Outdoor Lounge Chairs, and Yeti Cups.
If you are going to create a basket, please
contact Susan Bernhardt or Terri Powlas so that
there are no repeats. If you want to donate an item,
gift cards are always a hit or ask Susan and Terri
what baskets need items included.
Please have your basket or donated items to the
church by Thursday, April 27. Last year, we had
25 baskets and raised over $5,000. We are looking
forward to another wonderful year of great baskets!
If you have any questions or would like more in-
formation please contact Susan Bernhardt (704)
637-0155 ([email protected]) or Terri
Powlas (704) 637-6849 ([email protected]).
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Cruise ‘n Barbecue Volunteer’s Meeting
Thursday, April 27
All Cruise ‘n Barbecue volunteers please attend a
special planning meeting and pre-event celebration
in the Fellowship Hall at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday,
April 27th. There will be refreshments, updates
and briefings on Saturday’s activities and
assignments, and T-shirts will be distributed.
April 29th will be a great day!
THANK YOU for your dedication and help that
makes the Cruise ‘n Barbecue possible!
CRUISE ‘N BARBECUE VOLUNTEERS will
also meet Sunday, April 30, at 6:00 p.m. in the
Fellowship Hall to discuss how the Cruise ‘n
Barbecue went and if there are any changes to con-
sider for next year.
We need YOUR help!
Members are encouraged to bring bottled water
and canned drinks for our Cruise 'n Barbecue to
church by Wednesday, April 26, and place on the
stage in the Fellowship Hall. Thank you in advance
for your generosity.
Drink Procurement Committee
13
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YOUTH NEWS…
March 5th at 6:30 p.m. the youth went to the
movie The Shack. Emma, Harley, Hannah, Grace,
Savannah, Luke, Nicole, Karen, George, Dan,
Katie, and two friend guests were able to join us
to go to Tinseltown. The group loved the movie,
and it was great they were able to use it as an out-
reach to their friends to introduce a Christ based
movie to their peers. The Pastor shared a Bible
study for The Shack. Our group met on March
19th for this Bible Study meeting.
March 8th the GOOD FRIDAY DRAMA practices
began. Participants are: Directors - Pastor DJ
Lura and Katie Funderburk; Narrator 1 & 2 - Ja-
red Gordon and Alison Moore; Lights - James
Earnhardt and Dan Funderburk; Sound - Wilbur
Canup, Drama Actors - Henry Barringer, Chloe
Lombard, Addy Lura, Allyson Harkey, Sam Pepper,
Lauren Whisnant, Lindsey Whisnant, Reese Lura,
Grace Funderburk, and Honorary Support Sarah
Barringer. We hope you are all able to join us on
Good Friday at 8:00 pm for this walk through of the
final hours of Jesus crucifixion.
March 25th the Middle and High School Youth had
planned to attend Winter Jam 2017 concert in
Greensboro, NC. However, 20 minutes before we
were to leave we received a text from our friends
that the concert was sold out. The tickets are sold at
the door only. With this discouraging news there
was a new plan formed, the youth left the church at
4:45 p.m. and went to Casa Grande to eat and The
Escape Artist in Concord. Addy Lura, Allyson
Harkey, Melissa Harkey, Donna Johnson, Savannah
Charles with her friend Samantha, Hannah Barringer
with her friend, Micah, Grace Funderburk, and Katie
Funderburk all attended. The group broke up into
two teams to try conquering the task of figuring out
puzzles, locks, and codes to escape the 1 hour time
limit. Each group had to use critical thinking skills,
problem solving techniques and team work to ac-
complish this goal. It was an amazing experience
and the group is excited to go back again and try
another room. We ended our night at Chick-fil-a
with a scoop of ice cream.
March 26th Bible Study with Middle School
Youth planning for a summer weekend retreat
and Youth Sunday.
April 15th- EASTER EGG HUNT begins 1:30
p.m. provided by the Sunday School classes age
2-5th Grade, Middle and High School after the
Preschool and Grade School hunt.
April 16th EASTER BREAKFAST: High School
Youth should be at the church by 5:30 a.m. to pre-
pare food for the congregation. The Grade and
Middle School youth should report at 7:00 a.m. to
be in place we start serving at 7:30 a.m.
Congregation starts arriving around 7:15- 7:20
a.m.
Plan to wear clothing that may take a spill no
Easter dresses or Easter suites please. Plan to stay
afterward to help clean up and put Fellowship Hall
back together.
April 2nd the High School Youth will be going to
the Lutheran Home to visit residents at 5:00 p.m.
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YOUTH NEWS…
March 18th the Grade School Youth went to Lazy
5 Ranch for their outing this month. We had 15 to
go. The group took the wagon ride through the ranch
and feed the animals, we also visited the other ani-
mals in their enclosed environments, we even had a
few minutes to feed our little St. Paul critters a snack.
Youth Sunday Rehearsals
Grade and Middle School
April 23rd from 3:00-4:30 pm
April 30th from 3:00-4:00pm
High School
April 23rd from 4:30-5:30pm
April 30th from 4:00-5:30 pm
March 12th the GRADE SCHOOL met for their second
session of Moses. Alexander, Sarah, Hila, Chelsea,
Lylla, and Henry all participated in two activities, one
game to avoid temptation, the other was a challenging
path to stay connected to God. The group discussed
Moses as a young man how he was brought up in
Egypt, and how angrier had lead him into sin and he
killed and Egyptian solider who was beating a Hebrew
slave. We discussed why the Hebrews were not ready
for him to lead them yet, and what he had to do to
survive. Danielle, Summer, Amy, and Heather were
there as youth leaders.
Pictures above are from March 25 outing.
YOUTH NEWS…
We WELCOMED Aria Renee Andrews into
our Christian Family through the Sacrament of
Holy Baptism on Sunday, March 26. Aria is the
daughter of Colton and Tasha Martin Andrews.
We WELCOMED Hadley Isabella Bass into
our Christian Family through the Sacrament of
Holy Baptism today. Hadley is the daughter of
Chad and Samantha Martin Bass.
Katie Funderburk, Director of Youth
Ministries, will be on vacation April 18-21. She
will be unable to return calls, emails, texts, etc.
during her vacation.
Thank you to our Girl Scout Troop 743 for
leading the Worship service on Sunday, March 12.
We are so blessed to have a Girl Scout program at
St. Paul’s!
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS
All persons pursuing a higher education are
encouraged to apply for these scholarships:
SADIE & HOLLIE RITCHIE SCHOLARSHIP, BROWN
-HEILIG SCHOLARSHIP, and the BLANCHE AND
HUBERT A. RITCHIE SCHOLARSHIP.
All persons pursuing a ministerial degree are
encouraged to apply for these scholarships: ST.
PAUL’S MINISTERIAL STUDENT AND LOAN GIFT
FUND and the DAVE AND PEARL HONBARGER
MINISTRY SCHOLARSHIP FUND.
Applications for the various scholarships are
located in the church office, Narthex, High School
Sunday School Classroom, and website
(www.splcweb.org). Criteria for the scholarships
are listed with the application. If requested, a
copy of the applications will be mailed.
Please note that all scholarship applications are
due a month earlier then has been required in the
past.
The deadline for turning in all applications to
the church office is Monday, May 1.
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Girl Scout Troop 743 News…
In April the Girl Scouts will have a campout and
watch the Kannapolis Intimidators on April 22.
Cost is $20 for the game, good pass, on-field
campout, breakfast, clinic, and patch. Cost for the
game only is $13. If you plan to attend please turn
in your money by April 11.
The Daisy/Brownie Day Camp will be held on
May 6. The cost is $10. More information
coming soon.
Reminder: Girl Scouts meet every Tuesday at
6:45 p.m., with few exceptions.
March 22nd Thank you to the Youth & Family
Committee for giving the Middle School Youth
an opportunity to raise money for their weekend
retreat scheduled in August. A special thanks to
all who prepared spaghetti sauces, provided the
salad, noodles, and bread for the Lenten meal.
Also, the parents and youth that came to help
prepare the food, we could not have done this
without you. Thank you!!!
Thank you to everyone who participated on
March 26th for the Chili Cook Off. We wanted to
thank the congregation for your support and do-
nations toward this year's 2017 mission trip to
Gatlinburg, TN. At this time we have 7 youth
and 3 leaders attending this mission.
Congratulations to Harley Amos for receiving
her Gold Award in March. This is the highest
award a Girl Scout can earn and we are proud of
her accomplishment!
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THANK YOU TO…
Dear St. Paul’s Lutheran Church,
Thank you for your support of Carson High
School’s Masonry. We raise $1,300. Your
support gave several students the opportunity to
continue our program skills statewide.
Glen, Nicole, Harley, and Emma Amos
OUR LOVE AND SYMPATHY is extended to Mike
and Joyce Morris and Family on the death of
Kathy Kendrick.
OUR LOVE AND SYMPATHY is extended to
Butch, Alesia, Sydney, and Collin Lewis and Brad
Boling on the death of Willard Overcash.
OUR LOVE AND SYMPATHY is extended to
Jason, Kara, and Hudson Burnett and Family on
the death of Patricia Ann Longenbach Lippard.
OUR LOVE AND SYMPATHY is extended to Bob
and Jan McCanless and Family on the death of
Gregg Powell.
OUR LOVE AND SYMPATHY is extended to Bo,
Gay, and Spencer Newsome and Family on the
death of Geraldine Spencer.
OUR LOVE AND SYMPATHY is extended to the
Family of Donald Julian on his death, March 26.
NEW MEMBERS
We are happy to welcome into our Church
Family today: Judy Crews, by letter of transfer
from Union Lutheran Church, Salisbury; Dan
Funderburk, by letter of transfer from Ursinus
United Church of Christ, Rockwell; Mary Gentry,
by letter of transfer from Boonville Baptist
Church, Boonville; Linda Goodman, by letter of
transfer from Faith Baptist Church, Faith;
Jordan, Jillian, and Reese Gunter, by Affirmation
of Faith and Baptism; Teddy Miller, by letter of
transfer from Parkwood Baptist Church, Concord;
Edward Niedens, by letter of transfer from Kure
Memorial Lutheran Church, Kure Beach; Dani
Shelton by Affirmation of Faith; Barbara Toye, by
Affirmation of Faith; Lauren, Melody, and
Harmony Yon, by Affirmation of Faith and
Baptism; Steve and Kathy Yost, by letter of
transfer from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church,
China Grove; Roy and Jancie Zimmermann, by
letter of transfer from Union Lutheran Church,
Salisbury; and Scot Zimmermann, by letter of
transfer from St. Stephens Lutheran Church, Gold
Hill.
We are excited to have each of these persons
becoming a part of our church family!
“Because I live, you also will live. On that day you
will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in
me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commands
and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one
who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too
will love them and show myself to them.”
John 14:19-21
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LUTHERAN REFORMATION SERIES
East Rowan Area LCMC/NALC Congregations
present a series of five Worship Services concluding
in a celebration of the Lutheran Reformation on
Sunday, October 29.
Session 2: 4:00 PM Sunday, April 30, at Faith
Lutheran Church (NALC); speaker Pr. Carl Haynes,
topic is "The Two Kingdoms"
Session 3: 4:00 PM Sunday, June 25, at Union
Lutheran Church (NALC); speaker Pr. D.J. Lura,
topic is "Theology of the Cross"
Session 4: 4:00 PM Sunday, August 27, at Christiana
Lutheran Church (NALC); speaker Pr. Carlin Ours,
topic is "Impact of Reformation on the World"
Session 5: Joint Celebration of the 500th
Anniversary of the Reformation: 4:00 PM Sunday
October 29, at Organ Lutheran Church (LCMC /
NALC); guest speaker is Pr. Mark Ryman
The Joint Reformation Sunday event will include a
full Worship service with The Lord's Supper
celebrated. There will be a combined choir from the
participating congregations. The first four sessions
will include a brief Evening Prayer service with 3-5
Lutheran hymns selected by the host congregation.
Following the speaker's message, refreshments will
be served as a fellowship opportunity.
Come worship with us for a laity refresher
perspective on what the Reformation has meant to
Lutheran Christians. A Nursery will be available for
little children during each of the five services.
Questions about these services may be directed to
any of the four pastors serving as session speakers.
This would be an excellent learning opportunity for
everyone, especially confirmation students and new
or prospective congregational members.
THERE IS A GREEN HILL FAR AWAY
There is a green hill far away,
Beyond the city wall,
Where the dear Lord was crucified,
Who died to save us all.
We may not know, we can not tell,
What pains he had to bear;
We believe it was for us
He hung and suffered there.
He died that we might be forgiven;
He died to make us good,
That we might go to heaven,
Saved by His precious blood.
There was no other good enough
To pay the price of sin,
He only could unlock the gate,
Of heaven and let us in.
O dearly, dearly, He has loved,
We must love Him too,
Trust in His redeeming blood,
And try His works to do
By Cecil Frances Alexander 1818-1895
INCOME AND EXPENSES
January 31, 2017
Income $34,484.64 Expenses $37,855.18
For January: $3,370.54 expenses over income
February 28, 2017
Income $34,678.28 Expenses $39,177.82
For February: $4,499.54 expenses over income
Year-to-date: $7,870.08 expenses over income
March income and expenses will be available in
the May newsletter.
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Memorial and Honorarium Gifts April
A gift was received for the Helping Hands Fund in
honor of the Property Committee from: Bob and Jan
McCanless
A gift was received for the Cemetery Fund in mem-
ory of Harry Basinger from:
Jerry and Linda Beaver
Gifts were received for the General Fund in mem-
ory of Harry Basinger from:
Travis and Cindy Alligood
Mr. and Mrs. Ben Bernhardt
Dana and Crystal Bost
Grady and Jenny Earnhardt
Harold and Louise Eller
LM Elliott
Gary Gaskey
Chuck and Linda Hess
Frank and Cindy Hinson
Jim and Betty Monday
Mary Powlas
South Salisbury Fire Dept., Inc.
Wayne and Johnsie Taylor
Jerry and Peggy Whitaker
Gifts were received for the Helping Hands Fund in
memory of Harry Basinger from:
Terry and Myra Jane Eller
Harold and Dot Goodman
D. W. and Judi Honbarger
Wayne and Jane Wilhelm
Gifts were received for the Improvement Fund in
memory of Harry Basinger from:
Jimmie and Jean Deal
James and Mary Lee Earnhardt
Coy and Joyce Wilhelm
Gifts were received for the Parish Nurse Fund in
memory of Harry Basinger from:
Alice Davis
Tim and Karen Deal
Vaughn and Nancy Wilhelm
A gift was received for the Parish Nurse Fund in
memory of Yvonne Kayes from:
Herman Ritchie
A gift was received for the Helping Hands Fund in
memory of Kathy Kendrick from:
Tim and Karen Deal
A gift was received for the General Fund in
memory of Patricia Lippard from:
Dana and Crystal Bost
Gifts were received for the Improvement Fund in
memory of George Morgan from:
William and Mary Basinger
Vernon and Cheryl Bernhardt
Lillian Bruce
RE/Max Executive: SouthPark
Pamela and Tony Misenheimer
Jon, Shelley, Blake, Harper, Hampton, and
Hudson Palmer
Coy and Joyce Wilhelm
Gifts were received for the General Fund in mem-
ory of Willard Overcash from:
Grady and Jenny Earnhardt
Mr. and Mrs. Alan Lyerly
A gift was received for the Helping Hands Fund in
memory of Willard Overcash from:
Dana and Crystal Bost
A gift was received for the Parish Nurse Fund in
memory of Willard Overcash from:
Tim and Karen Deal
A gift was received for the Choir Music Fund in
memory of Greg Powell from:
Genevieve Baker
Gifts were received for the Choir Fund in memory
of Charlie Ritchie from:
Adult Sunday School Class #4
Travis and Cindy Alligood
Jerry and Linda Beaver
Harold and Dot Goodman
Wayne and Johnsie Taylor
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Gifts were received for the General Fund in
memory of Charlie Ritchie from:
Mr. and Mrs. Ben Bernhardt
Vernon and Cheryl Bernhardt
Dana and Crystal Bost
Grady and Jenny Earnhardt
Frank and Cindy Hinson
Gifts were received for the Helping Hands Fund in
memory of Charlie Ritchie from:
D. W. and Judi Honbarger
Mary Powlas
Wayne and Jane Wilhelm
A gift was received for the Improvement Fund in
memory of Charlie Ritchie from:
Coy and Joyce Wilhelm
Gifts were received for the Parish Nurse Fund in
memory of Charlie Ritchie from:
Terry and Susan Beeker
Alice Davis
Gifts were received for the General Fund in mem-
ory of Hoy Stirewalt from:
Dana and Crystal Bost
John and Carolyn Canup
Grady and Jenny Earnhardt
Perry and Ruth Julian
A gift was received for the Helping Hands Fund in
memory of Hoy Stirewalt from:
Nancy L. Powell
A gift was received for the Youth Fund in memory
of Hoy Stirewalt from:
James and Mary Lee Earnhardt
A gift was received for the General Fund for the use
of the church facilities from:
Alan and Terri Powlas
Gifts were received for the General Fund in
memory of Harry Simpson from:
Chuck and Linda Hess
Perry and Ruth Julian
A gift was received for the Improvement Fund in
memory of Harry Simpson from:
Coy and Joyce Wilhelm
Gifts were received for the Parish Nurse Fund in
memory of Harry Simpson from:
Terry and Susan Beeker
Oleba Sebastian
Gifts were received for the Helping Hands Fund
in memory of Harry Simpson from:
Don and Judith Austin
Eric, Amy, Henry, and Sara Barringer
Bonnie Bernhardt
Bradley and Jennie Bost
Marvin Burnett
John and Carolyn Canup
Sandy Corley
James and Glenda Deal
Grady and Jenny Earnhardt
James and Mary Lee Earnhardt
Harold and Louise Eller
Gary Gaskey
Ann and Jim Grant
D. W. and Judi Honbarger
Boyd and Karen Hough
Darren, Shane, Mackenzie,
and Corbin Menius
Nancy L. Powell
Frankie and Franda Raymer
Betty Ritchie
Dorothy Ritchie
Herman Ritchie
JM Simmons
South Salisbury Fire Dept., Inc.
Wayne and Johnsie Taylor
Sara Turman
Kenneth, Bethany, Lauren,
and Lindsey Whisnant
Wayne and Jane Wilhelm
Jim and Sue Young
St. Paul's Lutheran Church Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC)
205 St. Paul’s Church Road
Salisbury, NC 28146
ORDER FORM FOR LILIES/GERANIUMS
Once again we are offering members the opportunity to purchase
lilies and geraniums to beautify our church for Easter Sunday, April
16.
The number of lilies available to us this year is limited to only 15.
You may purchase a Lily at $10 per wrapped flower or a white
Geranium at $7.50 per wrapped flower.
Please fill out the information below if you would like to purchase a
lily/geranium or designate a gift in lieu of a flower. Make all checks
payable to: ST. PAUL'S LUTHERAN CHURCH. Orders may be placed
in the offering plate, turned in to the church office, or mailed in.
In Honor of _______________________________________________
In Memory of _____________________________________________
By: _____________________________________________________
Total Number of Lilies/Geraniums given: ___________
Amount Given for Lilies/Geraniums: $___________
DEADLINE: Sunday, April 2
IN LIEU OF LILIES/GERANIUMS you may make a memorial or
honor gift to the General Fund, Improvement Fund, Youth, Parish
Nurse or any other area of St. Paul's ministry. Make all checks
payable to: ST. PAUL'S LUTHERAN CHURCH. Clearly mark the
desired fund and turn in the order form.
FOR:____________________________________________________ (Name of Fund to receive gift)
In Honor of _______________________________________________
In Memory of _____________________________________________
By: _____________________________________________________
Amount Given In Lieu of Lilies/Geraniums: $_____________
____ Yes ____ No: I plan to pick up my lilies/geraniums after the
10:30 a.m. Worship Service on Easter Sunday.
Phone: 704-633-0922
Fax: 704-636-1300
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.splcweb.org
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/StPaulsLCMC
OUR MISSION: A family of faith sharing the
gospel and love of Christ.
WEEKLY WORSHIP
OPPORTUNITIES:
Sunday School at 9:30 a.m.
Sunday Worship at 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, April 5
at 11:00 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.
No Wednesday service on April 12 & 19.
Wednesday Evening Services
Beginning on April 26 at 6:30 p.m.
Rev. DJ Lura,
Senior Pastor
Tim Free,
Congregational Council
CHURCH STAFF:
Genevieve Baker,
Church Secretary
Pamela Cottingham, Office Assistant
Katie Funderburk,
Director of Youth Ministries
Jill Earnhardt,
Faith Community Nurse, RN,
Nicole Amos,
Girl Scouts Troop Coordinator
Louise Eller, Treasurer
Jared Gordon, Music Director
Johnsie Taylor, Organist
OFFICE HOURS: 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday
