Church of Peace Thursday Greetings

Greetings from Church of Peace - February 23, 2012

2012-02-23T06:37:00.005-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Here’s some great news to brighten your day: the organ has been totally paid for! “Thank you” to every person and family who donated to this fund during the past months. Although one substantial gift at the end made this momentous announcement possible at this time, each gift made a difference as we made the organ truly our own.

Sunday’s service will bring us more good news. Using the story of the rainbow, we will examine our lives in the light of God’s covenant. The littlest Sunday School children will sing. Bibles will be given to the 3^rd graders.

Tonight is the last meeting of the Mid-Week Faith Boost until after Easter.

Youth, parents, and mission-trip adults: please attend the meeting on Sunday evening at 6:30 in Gammert Hall.

The March Messenger will be posted on line by the end of today and will be available in the narthex and elevator hallway as well.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

P.S. For the rest of Lent, this greeting will come on Wednesday to remind everyone of the Lenten service that evening.

A prayer for today: Eternal God, let this holy season of Lent become for me a time of self-examination, repentance, and inner strengthening. Purify my heart to behold your will more clearly for my life. Show me new opportunities to share your healing grace with those in need. May being an active part of Church of Peace be a focus for me as I seek to become closer to you. I pray remembering Jesus. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - February 16th, 2012

2012-02-16T06:38:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Psalm 96 begins “Sing to the Lord a new song.” That is exactly what will be done in worship this Sunday. The Lakeland Singers will be with us and will bless us with a variety of sacred music; you do not want to miss this chance to hear their lovely voices singing in praise. Kaden Slavik will be baptized.

Donna Blaine and Rev. Martin Koehler are hospitalized. Please remember them in your prayers.

Tonight’s Mid-Week Faith Boost will be a discussion of chapters 18-21 of Sheboygan County Chronicle. We’ll begin at 6:30.

Following Sunday School on Sunday (at 11:00), a crew will assemble to clean the pew cushions. If you’d like to lend a hand, your help will be appreciated. A lunch will be provided.

The Golden Fellowship invites everyone to play with trains on Tuesday morning. Denny Smith and Pastor Jim will bring Lionel trains to operate and enjoy. Join us for this time of fun (11:00) and for the lunch which will follow (noon).

This Wednesday Lent begins. Our Ash Wednesday service will start at 7:00 p.m. Holy Communion will be served. Our Lenten theme this year is “Growing in Faithfulness” and will feature the comic strip of Calvin and Hobbes.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church. Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Loving God, wrap your arms around me today and keep me safe when times are difficult or when temptation calls my name. Help me to use wisely the gifts you have given to me. Show me the path you would have me go. I pray that your healing light will shine upon Donna Blaine and Rev. Koehler. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - February 9th, 2012

2012-02-09T06:51:00.001-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

The theme for Sunday’s worship service is “Let Your Light Shine,” something we do as Christ’s people with the help of the Holy Spirit. The service will sparkle with highlights: the Sonshine Singers’ anthem, the baptism of Mary Claire Jackson, the giving of roses and carnations in honor of Christian marriage. Please join us at 8:45. You’ll leave glowing with inspiration.

Later on Sunday, we are gathering for a “Sweetheart Dinner”. There is still room for three more couples; call the church office if you would like to join us at the Sunset Supper Club at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday for food and conversation. Each couple will pay for their own dinner.

We’ll receive Souper Bowl of Caring food for our food pantry through Sunday. We’re not quite to our goal of 1000 items, so why not bring in a few more canned or boxed foods this Sunday?

Esther Hassman is a patient at St. Agnes Hospital. Please pray that Esther will recover quickly and completely.

Parents: if your child is helping to distribute flowers on Sunday, please bring him or her to the Sunday School room before worship so they can put on their special outfit.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: I thank you, dear God, for your loving kindness which has continually undergirded me. Your breath of life fills me with power and your love is the hope of my living. Grant me a strong faith that I might be your hands, feet, and voice in the world. Bless Esther Hassman with your healing power and your gentle comfort. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - February 2nd, 2012

2012-02-02T07:14:00.001-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Join us Sunday morning to begin your day in a “super” way! Holy Communion will be celebrated as we gather in the presence of Christ, our Friend. Come hear the Chapel Choir and learn from the Scripture about what it means to be a friend of Jesus.

When you come on Sunday, please bring with you some non-perishable food for the Souper Bowl of Caring. What a good way to celebrate the Super Bowl – with a Souper Bowl!

Need a faith lift? This morning at 10:15, Church of Peace will be leading the communion service at All About Life. This evening at 6:30, Mid-Week Faith Boost will meet. You will be welcomed at both.

Pat Klebs is currently hospitalized at St. Agnes. Pat Pratt has transferred from the hospital to St. Francis Home. Please pray for their healing to continue.

Couples can still sign up for the Sweetheart Dinner which will be held on Sunday, February 12^th at 6:00 p.m. at the Sunset Supper Club. Call the office (921-8215) or sign up this Sunday in the narthex.

Parents, don’t forget to call the church office (921-8215) if your first, second, or third grader can help with the rose ceremony on February 12^th.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Today, O God, I pray that you will give me the courage to live joyfully, hopefully, and peacefully. Give me vision to see the needs of others through your eyes. Make me truly thankful for all of my blessings. I pray that Pat Klebs and Pat Pratt may know your healing power in their lives. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - January 12, 2012

2012-01-12T08:24:00.001-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace on this snowy day!

Jesus calling the disciples is the gospel story for Sunday; we’ll think together about what Christ calls us to do as modern day disciples. The youth choir will sing.

Following worship, at 10:00, there will be a meeting to discuss the 2012 budget proposal with the Council. The meeting will be held in the choir room. This is a time for all members to ask questions and give suggestions on this year’s spending plans.

We are planning to hold Faith Boost tonight at 6:30. If it is cancelled due to snow, we will post it on the website and broadcast it on KFIZ 1450 radio.

Pat Pratt is hospitalized at St. Agnes. Please pray for her speedy and complete recovery from knee surgery.

Next Tuesday you are invited to have some fun with the Golden Fellowship. Pastor Jim and Denny Smith are teaming up to bring a Lionel train to Gammert Hall. We’ll assemble and operate the train and then enjoy a good lunch together. Please sign up in the narthex so we know how many to expect for lunch.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

See you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O God who warms my heart on every chilly day, I ask your presence with all who have to be outside today. May they be safe and have ways to stay warm. Bless Pat Pratt as she recovers from surgery. And bless me as I try to be a faithful disciple of Jesus in this time and place. Amen.

Greetings of Church of Peace - December 29, 2011

2011-12-29T06:32:00.001-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace on this 5^th day of Christmas!

This Sunday we have a wonderful opportunity to begin the new year in a holy way. We’ll be gathering New Year’s Day at 8:45 a.m. for worship. Come join us as we praise God for the blessings of 2011 and ask God for guidance in 2012. Holy Communion will be celebrated. There will be no Sunday School this week.

We know of two people who are hospitalized: David Borchert in Neenah and Pat Pratt at St. Agnes. Please remember these folks in your prayers. We extend our Christian sympathy to the family of Sharon Miess. Sharon’s funeral was yesterday.

The church’s financial books will close on Friday morning at 10:00 so if you have donations that you would like credited to 2011, please make sure your gift arrives at the church office by then.

A word of thanks: on behalf of the congregation as well as ourselves, we want to express our gratitude to all the people whose dedication made possible our inspirational Advent and Christmas seasons: all of our musicians, the Worship Enhancement Team, dramatists, teachers, candle-lighters, readers, ushers, and staff. A special thank you to Ray Beilke, Art Conklin, and Jeanette Hinn for their leadership of the Christmas Day worship service.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Dear God who has blessed me so richly in the closing year, I turn to you with a grateful heart, thankful for all the love that I have experienced during the days of 2011. As the year comes to a close, remind me to forgive those who have hurt me in any way, just as you have forgiven me for my transgressions during the year. Please continue to shine your healing light upon David Borchert and Pat Pratt; bring consolation and peace to the family of Sharon Miess. I pray these things remembering Jesus. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - December 15, 2011

2011-12-15T07:30:00.001-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Tonight we hold one of the loveliest services of the year at Church of Peace – the Service of Remembrance and Hope. At 7:00 we’ll gather in the beauty of our candlelit sanctuary for prayers, songs, and Scriptures. The trees are up and decorated; the poinsettias will be in place. Join us for this time of spiritual refreshment. A social hour will follow.

Sunday is the Advent Sunday of Love. Worship begins at 8:45 a.m. The Chapel Choir will sing. Then at 10:15 the children of the Sunday School will present their Christmas program which will be followed by a social hour. (PARENTS: have your child in his/her classroom by 9:50 please.)

At 5:00 Sunday night we will meet for a quick pizza supper, then climb on a bus to go caroling for some of our members. We’ll return to the church by 7:00. This is an activity for the whole family. How heart-warming it will be for all!

David Borchert has been hospitalized at Theda Clark Medical Center. Please pray for his speedy and complete recovery.

On Saturday the one and only rehearsal for the children’s Christmas program will begin at 9:00. All children who are in the program need to attend. The practice will take about an hour and a half. Following the rehearsal, the middle-school students will be decorating cookies for the next day’s social hour.

Next Tuesday, all members and friends are invited to Golden Fellowship to enjoy pizza and to share Christmas stories from times past. Come to Gammert Hall at 11:00 to join in the fun.

Looking ahead:

Christmas Eve: 4:00 Communion Service/ Special Music by Inge Adelmeyer and Pastor Jim

7:00 Communion Service/Candles for Everyone

11:00 Pew Communion/Candles for Everyone

Chapel Choir Singing

Christmas Day 10:00 a.m. Service of Lessons and Carols

No Sunday School, Breakfast Club, Social Hour

Are you planning to attend the 4:00 p.m. Christmas Eve service? If so, would your family be willing to light the Advent candles? Please call Pastor Jenny at 921-8215 if you would be willing to help in this important way. We will give you the words to say.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Eternal Source of birth and new life, help me to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas. Slow me down and remind me to place my hope in you. Be my calm center; make me a channel of your peace. Bless David Borchert with your healing power. Amen.

2011-11-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace on this Thanksgiving Eve Day.

Join with us as we gather for tonight’s Thanksgiving worship service. The youth choir will sing, there will be pew communion, and a prayer journey will help guide our thoughts toward God. Our sanctuary has been specially prepared for this festival of gratitude. It begins at 7:00.

Saturday brings us the joyful and holy occasion of Steve Stepp’s ordination. The Chapel Choir will sing. Come ask God’s blessing upon Steve and his ministry. It will begin at 1:00 and will be followed by a social hour.

Sunday’s service will usher in the festive season of Advent. Our sanctuary will be resplendent in blue, a sign of joyful preparation for the arrival of Christ at Christmas. Little Joseph Peterson will be baptized. Our littlest Sunday School children will sing.

Gary Babler is a patient at St. Agnes Hospital. Please include him in your prayers.

There will be no confirmation class tonight but all confirmands are expected to attend the Thanksgiving Eve worship service at 7:00.

The December Messenger is ready to be picked up in the narthex or elevator lobby or to be read on-line (www.uccchurchofpeace.org.).

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church. Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: In this time of gratitude, O God, I would like to thank you for all the blessings you have provided in my life, but there are so many that I don’t know where to begin. I pray that you will help me to grow in gratitude every day of my life so each day may be a thanksgiving to you. Bless Gary Babler and all who are sick with your tender, healing touch. Bless Steve Stepp as he receives the rite of ordination. And bless our whole church family with meaningful worship and ever-more-faithful hearts. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - November 17, 2011

2011-11-17T06:44:00.003-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

What does it mean for our day-to-day lives that Christ reigns over all creation? We will think about this together on Sunday. We will also remember and give thanks for those members of our congregation who have died during the past year. The Chapel Choir will sing.

On next Wednesday night, Thanksgiving Eve, we will gather to give thanks at 7:00 p.m. Join us for this lovely and meaningful service which includes Holy Communion served in the pews and a prayer journey. The Youth Choir will sing!

Tonight’s Mid-Week Faith Boost begins a discussion of Pastor Jim’s novel, Sheboygan County Chronicle. Even if you haven’t read the first chapter, join us for an energetic conversation. We’ll begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Upper Room.

Remember that on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, you have the honor of participating in Steve Stepp’s ordination. It will begin at 1:00 p.m. in the sanctuary.

We’ve had a couple of people in the hospital: Harold Kryzyanowski and Del Luttenberger have both been released to their homes. Milton Scott is now at The Woodlands. Lorraine Thill is now in hospice care. Please remember these people when you pray.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church. Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O God, I await an awareness of your Spirit with eagerness. I pray that you will enter my life in a new way today, renewing me so I may live with purpose and enthusiasm and courage. Bless with your healing love all who are sick, especially Harold Kryzyanowski, Del Luttenberger, Milton Scott, and Lorraine Thill. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - November 9, 2011

2011-11-10T07:04:00.003-08:00

Greetings from Church of Peace! We hope this finds you dry and warm.

Sunday is Consecration Sunday. This means (1) an opportunity to show our gratitude to God for all our many blessings, (2) inspiration from a new voice (Rev. Ann Wahlers joins us in worship leadership), and (3) really good food in a decorated Gammert Hall afterwards. In addition, the Stewardship Ministry Team has prepared a video featuring people from Church of Peace serving God in a variety of ways. This will be shown following worship during the social hour. Join us at 8:45 a.m. for this joyful service and stay for the treats (watch for your picture in the slide show, too).

Need a visual reminder of summer’s beauty? Come to Mid Week Faith Boost this evening. We will be viewing a presentation of Jim’s photos from northern Minnesota and from our garden. It starts at 6:30 p.m. You can also pick up a copy of Sheboygan County Chronicle, Pastor Jim’s novel. We will be discussing it for the next few weeks.

Milton Scott is recovering in the hospital. Please remember him when you pray.

Golden Fellowship meets Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. We’ll have a program on preventing stokes and then share a delicious lunch. Everyone will be welcomed.

We have an opportunity to participate in an uncommon and holy event on Saturday, November 26th at 1:00 p.m. when Steve Stepp is ordained to the Christian ministry in our sanctuary. We strongly encourage members of the congregation to take part in this service. A social hour will follow.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church. Pastors Jenny and Jim

Prayer for today: As the chilly winter-like winds blow outside today, I pray, O God, that you will accept my gratitude for my warm home and my Spirit-warmed heart. I ask your blessing upon those who are cold in body, mind, or spirit today. Bless our congregation as we rededicate ourselves to you on this Consecration Sunday. Heal Milton Scott with your gentle power. I pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - November 3, 2011

2011-11-03T07:05:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

DON’T FORGET TO SET YOUR CLOCK BACK

ON SATURDAY NIGHT!

“All aboard the Good Ship CornuCOPia!” The crew of this vessel will be featured in the chancel drama/sermon on Sunday morning. In addition, we will be graced by an anthem from the Chapel Choir, we will share in the Lord’s Supper, and Ethan Hackbarth will be our witnessing steward. Be with us at 8:45 a.m. this Sunday for this memorable service.

At 10:15 this morning, Church of Peace will be hosting a short communion service for the residents of All About Life. Mid-Week Faith Boost will meet at 6:30 this evening.

Youth Choir is back in session! Rehearsals are Sundays at 11:00 a.m.

Milton Scott remains hospitalized. Please remember him in your prayers.

Thanks to all who participated in the “got generosity?” wall at the church. Haven’t seen it yet? It will be up for a couple of weeks.

Looking ahead:

Wednesday, November 9^th: Church of Peace serves Loaves and Fishes

Sunday, November 13^th: Consecration Sunday with special “Black and White” social hour to follow. Got generosity?

Sunday, November 20^th: Memorial Sunday.

Saturday, November 26^th: Steve Stepp’s Ordination at Church of Peace at 1:00 p.m.

That’s the news from the Good Ship CornuCOPia.

See you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O God, don’t let me forget you when I get busy today. Help me to continually listen for your guidance and notice your many blessings. Show me any ways that I can be your hands or voice in the world today. I ask your continued blessing upon Milton Scott as he recuperates in the hospital. Thank you, God. Amen.

2011-10-27T08:48:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Sunday we’ll be gathering for worship at 8:45 a.m. in our beautiful sanctuary for an uplifting service. As we remember the Christian Reformation, we’ll listen for the healing words that God wants for us to hear. Brenda Luebke will share her reflections on what the Church of Peace means in her life. Don’t miss this opportunity to encounter God and enjoy the company of your church family.

A hearty “thank you” to all who helped with the bazaar. We had a good crew that made the day go well. A few items will be on sale Sunday after worship.

We need a few strong people to help Saturday from 8-10 at the church. We aren’t quite done with the bazaar clean up. There is some furniture to be moved, etc.

Tonight at 6:30, the Mid-Week Faith Boost discussion will focus on just how affectionate and forgiving God is.

There are three people from our church family in the hospital: Sandy Treptow, Milton Scott, and Tom Lechnir. Please remember them in your prayers. When you pray, please also remember Marie Michalowski who has entered hospice care

The confirmands and their coaches leave on their retreat on Friday evening at 7:00 and will return to the church Saturday at 4:00 p.m.

The Messenger is on line (www.uccchurchofpeace.org) and will be available in the narthex and elevator lobby on Sunday. If you wish to have your Messenger mailed to you, just call the office.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O God, you have called me into a relationship with you. I am humbled and honored. Please show me what you want me to do for you as the hours of this day go by. Strengthen by your presence all those who are sick, especially Tom Lechnir, Sandy Treptow, Milton Scott, and Marie Michalowske. Bless our confirmands and their leaders as they build their faith on the retreat. I pray these things with a thankful heart. Amen.

Pastoral Letters Concerning the Church of Peace Financial Problems and Building Concerns

2011-09-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Dear People of Church of Peace:

Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ who claims us as his own and calls us his friends.

Jenny and I see a strengthening and promising ministry for this congregation in the community where it was planted and took root 141 years ago. And by the grace of God, through the end of last year, the church was able to return to a balanced budget, maintain and build our ministries, and live within our means. However, with the beginning of 2011, the Church Council noticed a downturn in our fiscal situation. Our difficult challenges as a church are reflected in similar challenges playing out around our state, our country, and much of our world.

While we cannot necessarily solve the world’s problems, we at least need to face our own. Stated simply for Church of Peace: How can we best use our combined resources so our ministry can continue and expressions of God’s love may flourish?

During the last few years, as part of our effort to use the congregation’s resources more wisely, Jenny and I have worked closely with the Church Council and the Building Committee to rein in our excessive energy usage. And, once our “financial house” seemed to be in order, I started working with the Building Committee to tackle the many repair and maintenance issues that had accumulated over the years. (Church of Peace has a huge piece of property to care for, you know.) We began prioritizing the projects according to urgency, immediate impact, and affordability. Much was accomplished.

However, as the list of planned and unanticipated repairs and projects continued to grow last spring, it became apparent to us that if nothing significant changed (i.e. related to energy usage and maintenance/repair issues), this “tidal wave” of expenses would soon threaten the ministry and future of Church of Peace.

Any remedies we decide upon will be expensive. Yet, our present facilities and their general state of disrepair project a struggling image to the community that inhibits significant numbers of new members from joining us in worship and ministry here. If we do nothing and simply try to wish the problems away—which would be the easier path to take at this point—I fear we would be condemning Church of Peace to a bleak future of steady decline, as more time and resources were swallowed by mounting property concerns.

So… the question before us, once again, is this: How can we best use our combined resources so our ministry can continue and expressions of God’s love may flourish? Rev. James Martin

*****

Dear Friends at Church of Peace,

The Church of Peace is thriving in many ways. We have vibrant worship, enthusiastic youth ministry, and children active in the life of our church. We care for one another within our church family and we have a highly-praised community ministry program. Sadly, there is one aspect of our life together that threatens the stability of all of these – it is our financial situation. This year, our General Fund has suffered; we have already borrowed $10,700 to pay basic daily bills. Unless our members begin to support the church more generously, our good work in Christ’s name cannot continue to bless us and others.

Then there is the matter of building maintenance and repair. The number one question that I feel we should be asking about our building is “Is this building a net asset as we seek together to serve God faithfully?”

It is pretty easy to see that the sanctuary is an asset. It is lovely and conducive to worship. People of all ages feel God’s presence there. The roof is new. On a Sunday when worship is well-attended, we have enough room but not too much to spare. Yes, although it needs about $20,000 of repair on the window trims, its wiring is outdated, and it isn’t insulated well, the sanctuary is definitely on the list of assets we can use to serve Christ well.

Determining the value of the flat-roofed additions to our ministry together is more difficult. Although these parts of our building provide us with plenty of room for all sorts of ministry, they present us with three BIG problems.

First of all, the additions are eating up our General Fund with their high utility costs. Some of the months last winter we spent over $80.00 per day on utilities because much of our building is uninsulated and our windows are, for the most part, old and drafty. To spend so much money on utilities is an unfaithful use of the funds entrusted to us for ministry. Christians support the church because of the good deeds that we do and the faith community we sustain; no one puts money in the offering plate in hopes that it will be burned up and blown out the windows.

A second problem with the flat-roofed additions are that their need for expensive repairs takes an emotional and spiritual toll on the church’s present leadership and on our vision for future ministry. It is impossible to walk very far in the building before some major problem becomes visible. “These bathrooms don’t work.” “This ceiling tile is brown because the roof leaks.” “It is drafty in here because the windows are not tight.” The run-down state of the building additions and the high price tag of repair saps hope from the staff and leadership. Planning for the future becomes difficult when it is clear that before long, the building costs will completely deplete our savings and take a higher percentage of our General Fund than they do now.

A third problem with the flat-roofed additions has to do with attracting new members. Jesus said, “Make disciples.” One of our primary responsibilities as the Body of Christ is to invite others to experience the joy we know in serving Christ together. Our additions do not give the impression of spiritual or financial health. Visitors perceive our building as run down, out of date, and ill-suited to the tasks of ministry. Furthermore, nowadays, young adults want their church building to look friendly and welcoming, not institutional or fortress-like. To neglect the negative affect the building additions have on potential disciples is to disregard Jesus’ commandment.

Obviously, the answer to what to do about the decaying parts of our building is not an easy answer. But to ignore what is happening will bring about the demise of our congregation. So it is urgent and essential. May God bless the Church of Peace as we meet this challenge in faithfulness and trust. Amen. Pastor Jenny Dawson

Greetings from Church of Peace - September 22, 2011

2011-09-22T06:25:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace,

It will be here this Sunday: the mass choir made up of our Sunday School children, confirmation youth, and the Chapel Choir! Join us at 8:45 a.m. for a service which includes their joyful anthem, a baptism (little Gabriella Albrecht), and some incredibly strengthening Bible passages. Come, let your spirit dance in the River of Life!

Tonight at the Mid-Week Faith Boost, we will discuss the chapter on heaven from Rob Bell’s book. You are welcome to attend even if you haven’t read the book.

Sunday at 10:15 a.m. we will have a congregational meeting to vote on a proposed change in the constitution (Annual Meeting on the fourth Sunday of January), to vote on the Council’s proposal to allocate 75% of the bazaar profits to the General Fund this year, and to discuss the financial shortfall and repairs needed to our building. Please join us for this important meeting.

The October Messenger will be posted on line (www.uccchurchofpeace.org) by Friday noon and available Sunday morning in the narthex and near the elevator.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: As the leaves begin shedding their chlorophyll to reveal the brilliant colors beneath, I am reminded to pray that you will peel away anything in my heart that keeps me from shining with your light. As the bright orange pumpkins begin to show up in gardens and on doorsteps, I pray that you will show me how to bring brightness and a spark of life to people around me. As the season changes from summer to autumn, I pray that I will be given courage to face any changes upcoming in my life. I pray these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - September 15, 2011

2011-09-15T07:01:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace,

Fair is fair! Or is it? Our Scripture reading for this Sunday’s reflection is a parable of Jesus which shows us a new way to determine fairness: God’s way. Join us at 8:45. The Chapel Choir will make their seasonal debut. A prayer journey and spirit-touching hymns will grace our service as well.

Sunday School and Breakfast Club will meet at 10:00.

Tonight, we continue our study of Rob Bell’s book as we gather for Mid-Week Faith Boost at 6:30. We’ll be discussing Chapter One.

Do you enjoy natural beauty, lovely music, and an occasional chuckle? Then come to the Golden Fellowship gathering on Tuesday at 11:00. Pastor Jim has prepared a presentation of the magnificent sights of summer, in particular of the Boundary Waters Area (now on fire in northern Minnesota). Lunch will follow.

The Church Council will be serving Sunday’s Social Hour.

Don’t forget to mark the September 25^th congregational meeting on your calendar. It will begin at 10:15 a.m. Its purpose is to vote on changing the date of the Annual Meeting to January, vote on what percentage of the bazaar profits will go to the General Fund, and to discuss the current financial situation.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church. Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Light of my soul, I need your strength and wisdom as I face the problems and duties of this day. Grant me a humble spirit which quickly comes to you in times of decision and action. Show me the way to a meaningful and Christ-like life. Thank you, God. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - August 18, 2011

2011-08-18T07:01:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Last night we had a new member orientation meeting at our home for the six people who will be joining our congregation on Sunday. What a nice group of Christian men and women! Join us at 8:45 a.m. for the worship service which will include some snappy hymns and a strengthening sermon. Following worship, you can greet the new members in the lobby; we’ll have a “welcome” cake for social hour.

Sunday is the last day to sign up your kids for the day camp at Pilgrim Center. We have plenty of adult chaperones, but we would welcome more.

Do you like pizza? Ok then. Next Wednesday between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. our youth will be serving at Pizza Ranch. They get to keep all the tips and will make profit on the sales as well. Last time, our church family filled the place; it was a lot of fun. If you would rather eat at home, we make money on carry-outs and deliveries also. Thanks for your help.

Most of you will receive a letter in the mail today (and the rest of you tomorrow) outlining some changes that the Council is making to save money. We’ve had a tough year financially and we are taking some cost-cutting measures to try to make ends meet. Please make sure to read the letter so you are familiar with the modifications that are being made.

Coming up in ten days, at the service a week from this Sunday, we will have guests providing special music. Jim’s trio will bless us with their songs. For many folks, this guarantees a meaningful worship experience.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O God, your love never changes. Please help me to remember your constancy when it feels like every day I am asked to adapt to another change. Bless our congregation in this time of financial stress. Show our leaders how to use faithfully and wisely the gifts we bring for the work of Christ through Church of Peace. Lead me to be a welcoming, encouraging host when new members and visitors come to my church home. These things I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - August 11, 2011

2011-08-11T07:01:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

COME EARLY TO WORSHIP THIS SUNDAY or you’ll miss part of the mission trip slide show. We’ll be showing it as a prelude beginning around 8:30. The pictures will help you to see for yourself the great work that was accomplished on behalf of Church of Peace. The service itself will include youth and adult reflections on how the trip helped them to grow in faith. The service will help you grow in faith too. Exciting news: there will be two roses on the altar; our church family is growing!

CALLING ALL KIDS: The Church of Peace Day Camp at Pilgrim Center will be on Thursday, August 25^th. The camp is for children aged 4 through 8^th grade; interested parents are welcomed to attend as well. Kids can bring a friend. Registration forms are available at the church. It will be a fun day of friends, faith, food, swimming, and crafts: a mini-camp!

It is time to proceed with the resealing and striping of our PARKING LOT. It will look better and be more functional; in addition, doing it now will repair the cracking and deterioration before they become so serious that we have to replace the lot. We have contracted with a professional team to do the work for $4500 (lowest bid). Because there is insufficient money in the budget, the Building Committee is doing a fund raiser by “selling” five gallon buckets of sealer for $10.00 each. The project will take place in early September so the fundraising is a matter of some haste. Please prayerfully consider how many $10.00 buckets of sealer your family can “buy” and check the lobby for signs of progress. Thank you!

Edsel Weigert is in the hospital in Oshkosh. Please remember him in your prayers.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Thank you, O God, for this lovely summer day. During its hours, please open the eyes of my heart so I notice the many ways in which you are reaching out in love to me. Remind me over and over again how important it is that I treat every person to whom I speak with kindness. Shine your healing light upon Edsel Weigert and all who are sick. Bless the mission trippers with wisdom and confidence as they prepare the service for Sunday. These things I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - August 4, 2011

2011-08-04T07:25:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace,

Today’s weather is perfect – warm, not humid, with a gentle breeze. Many of us would like every day to be just like this one. But not every day of our lives will be sunny – we all know storms come not only in the natural world but also in our personal lives. In the gospel lesson for this week, Jesus walks on water during a storm. How does this help us handle the storms in our lives? Come Sunday at 8:45 a.m. and find out! Nine women of our choir have prepared a lovely anthem which will grace the service and Holy Communion will be celebrated.

Last week, several “bag ladies” joined us in worship. During the mission moment, they handed out grocery bags to be filled with food and returned for our food pantry. If you took a bag, please bring it in soon. If you didn’t get one, any bag full of canned and boxed food will do just fine. The number of requests for food has been high so the shelves are quite bare. Thank you for supporting this important ministry of Church of Peace.

Edsel Wiegert is in the hospital in Oshkosh. Please remember Edsel in your prayers.

Parents: now is the time to sign up your children (and yourself if you would like to participate) for the Church of Peace Day Camp at Pilgrim Center on Thursday, August 25^th. Call the church office for a sign-up sheet and/or stop in at the desk in the narthex. Kids can bring a friend. The cost is $10.00 per family and $5.00 for each friend.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: What a gorgeous day it is today, O God, and my heart sings your praises. I pray that my thanks will be expressed not only in words but also in deeds of compassion. Show me how to live in hope and to shine with your love. I pray that you will bless Edsel Wiegert with your healing love. In Jesus name, Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - July 28, 2011

2011-07-28T08:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace,

Breaking News: A day camp at Pilgrim Center Camp for all Church of Peace Sunday School children has been scheduled for Thursday, August 25^th. Children aged 4 years old - 8^th grade are invited to board the bus at our church, then spend the day swimming, crafting, playing, learning, and eating at our Pilgrim Center camp. We’ll return home, tired and happy, after supper. Parents, watch your mailbox for more information.

The feeding of the 5,000 is the Scripture story for Sunday, a story which has a particularly heartening message for people in tough economic times. Little Masen Holmes will be baptized. Annie Hackbarth will provide special music.

Esther Hassman is a patient at St. Agnes Hospital. Please remember Esther when you pray.

Our Church of Peace softball team plays its final pre-tournament game on Monday night at Woodworth (north field) at 7:00 p.m. Come cheer for our team. Bring a lawn chair.

The Messenger for August will be mailed early next week.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church. Pastors Jim and Jenny

A prayer for today: Don’t let the challenges of today overwhelm me, O God. Open my life to receive your gifts of wisdom and peace. Remind me that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Thank you. I pray that Esther Hassman will be blessed by your healing power. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - July 21, 2011

2011-07-21T07:25:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Jim and I are back from a renewing and fun vacation. Thanks to Revs. Kandler and Schrankler for their help while we were gone. We thank God for the gift of time away to be refreshed in body, mind, and spirit; we hope all of you take some time to enjoy the beauty of the creation and the company of loved ones.

This Sunday’s Scripture lesson is a collection of parables. We’ll look for the humor and the lessons in these stories Jesus told. Pastor Jim will provide special music. Come worship in our air-conditioned sanctuary with your church family (8:45 a.m.); you’ll be glad you did.

Tuesday night the Church Council gathered for our July meeting. Enthusiastic reports were given by members who participated in the mission trip. Not so good news came in the congregation’s financial report. Thus far this year our general fund has spent $11,500 more than we’ve received in offerings. The Council is prayerfully considering how to limit expenses. At the same time, we remind members to support Christ’s work at Church of Peace through generous and consistent giving.

Last night, the Children’s Ministry Task Force met to continue their planning for next year’s Sunday School. It is going to be a great year for our little disciples and their teachers. Parents, look for more details soon.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: What a beautiful day your love has created, O God, and I thank you for it. When I see the sunshine, I remember that my life should shine with your love. When I see the breeze gently rustling through the branches of the trees, I am reminded of the way that your energizing power moves through my life when I need strength or wisdom. God, I ask your blessing and guidance for our church family as we address difficult financial issues. You have commissioned us to be your people, to praise you as we serve one another and the community. Give each of us a generous heart; guide us as individuals and as a congregation to wise use of our resources. These things I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - June 16, 2011

2011-06-16T06:50:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Are you a church member or a disciple or both? Our Gospel lessons for Sunday’s worship service focus on this question. Join us at 8:45 a.m. as we sing, pray, and learn together. We’ll be offering a special prayer in honor of fathers as well.

By the time most of you arrive for worship on Sunday, the mission trip trailers will be packed and ready to depart. During the service, we will bless the thirty-two people who will represent us as they dedicate the next week of their lives to helping people in the name of Christ. Then, after worship, we’ll send them on their way.

Mission trippers, watch your email box for final instructions and information.

Congratulations to our Church of Peace softball team for their decisive victory last Monday. Their next game is at 7:00 p.m. at Evans School this coming Monday. Fans are always welcomed!

Next week, Pastor Jenny will be on the mission trip. Pastor Jim will remain here to “tend our flock.” There will be no Bible study on Tuesday, but Shawl Ministry will meet at usual on Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: God, you have called me to be your disciple and to do your work here on earth. I come asking for your help so that I can be faithful to the tasks you set before me. Fill my life with hope as I seek to be an agent of your compassionate love. As they make final preparations for their trip, I ask your blessing upon the mission trip team. May they feel your supportive presence and the safety of your strong arms as they travel, work, worship, and play together. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

2011-06-09T08:07:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

This is “Red Sunday” at Church of Peace. Our sanctuary will be resplendent with red and fire, symbols of the Pentecost story that we celebrate. You are encouraged to wear red, orange, or yellow; it adds to the festive feeling. There will be a Pentecost prayer journey. We have invited our high school graduates to be with us so we can honor them. The service begins at 8:45.

Monday at 6:00 p.m. we will gather at McDermott Park North for a tail gate party. Bring your own dishes, drinks, and main dish (grill if you want to). Please bring a salad, side dish, or dessert to share. We’ll be cheering on the Church of Peace softball team which will play at 7:00.

Ray and Juli Beilke, Art Conklin, and Pastors Jim and Jenny will be attending the Annual Meeting of the Wisconsin Conference of the UCC in Green Lake tomorrow and Saturday.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O Loving God who has given me life, I pray for one more thing: I pray that today my heart will be open to your Holy Spirit and that my life may reflect its fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. Bless the Annual Meeting of the Wisconsin Conference of the UCC that the Christians gathered together there might be strengthened in faith and bring back good news to share with our congregations. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - June 2, 2011

2011-06-02T06:36:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Could you please do us a favor? We are trying to get as many opinions as possible to the question, “What do you think God is calling Church of Peace to accomplish?” Could you please click “reply” and write a few words of response? What do YOU think God is calling Church of Peace to accomplish? Your answer will remain anonymous.

Thank you! Now, on to the news:

Sunday’s service (8:45 a.m.) will present us with the very interesting, often perplexing story of Jesus’ ascension. Join us as we see what this dramatic ending to the resurrection story has to teach us as today’s disciples. Holy Communion will be celebrated.

Sunday is the last day to bid on the delightful doll house which Dave Candlish built. The money will go to the youth mission trip fund.

Monday night’s softball game will be held at Woodworth School, beginning at 9:15 p.m. All you night owls out there are invited to come and cheer. The following Monday is our tailgate party.

Shawl Ministers are invited to meet Wednesday night at 6:00 p.m. in the Upper Room. Interested? Come see what we do!

Youth mission trippers and their adult advisors will be working at several homes on this Saturday to raise money for the trip. Be at the church at 8:30 for rides to the worksites. We are gathering at Ethan Hackbarth’s home for a bonfire and further trip preparation on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. See you then.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Open my eyes that I may see visions of truth you have for me, O God. Open my ears to hear the cries of those in need. Open my hands to reach out with help for others. Open my mouth to speak lovingly to all I meet. Open my heart to the presence of the Holy Spirit in and around me. Open my life to faithful and joyful living today. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. If you haven’t clicked “reply” and answered the question yet, please do so now. What do YOU think God is calling Church of Peace to accomplish? Thank you!

Greetings from Church of Peace - May 26, 2011

2011-05-26T07:01:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Memorial Day is a civic holiday, not a Christian holiday; the Bible says nothing about it. But the Scriptures do address topics closely related to the theme of this weekend’s holiday so Sunday’s sermon will reflect on how we as Christians can honor those who have made sacrifices on behalf of our nation. We will also celebrate the baptism of little Adalyn Rolffs. Join us at 8:45 a.m. as we gather to praise, pray, and learn together. And, yes, a social hour will follow!

Tonight is the final Mid-Week Faith Boost for this school year. We will finish our series on Biblical archaeology. Come to the Upper Room at 6:30 to join in a fascinating conversation about the nature of the Bible and our faith history.

We know of two people from our church family who are hospitalized. Julie Rose and Shirley Hanke are both recovering from surgery and expect to return home soon. When you pray, give thanks for God’s healing power which has been active in their lives this week.

This Saturday, a team of youth workers will be doing work projects at the homes of our members who have requested their help. It is not too late to call the church office and let us know if you would like a crew to come to your home (921-8215). We have other dates available as well.

There is no church softball on Memorial Day. Games will resume on Monday, June 6^th. Check your Messenger (which will arrive early next week) for information on a tailgate party at Fond du Lac’s McDermott Park before the game on June 13^th.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: How I long for sunny days, O God, because they lift my spirits and brighten my mood. Even more, my life longs for the warmth and light of the Holy Spirit. In my mind, I know you are always with me, but sometimes in my heart, I feel like you are far away. Please help me to notice your activity in my life and in the world so I feel closer to you. Thank you for your healing power which has been active this past week, in particular in the returning health of Julie Rose and Shirley Hanke. Thank you also for the ways the United Church of Christ has been able to help people in Missouri and Oklahoma in the aftermath of the storms there. May we continue to support our helping ministries generously so people in need can experience your love. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - May 19, 2011

2011-05-19T06:23:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

“Hush!” is the name of the song that our Chapel Choir, Youth Choir, and Sunday School children will be singing together in worship on Sunday. What a triumphant way to end the Sunday School and choir seasons – with a jubilant multi-aged choir singing God’s praises. Another highlight in this music-filled service will be the return of our drums/electric guitar duo. You will come away from worship with a smile upon your heart.

Saturday morning might bring rain and it might bring sunshine. Either way, there is plenty to do at Church of Peace and we can use your help. Our Spring Work Day is from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Bring a rake, shovel (for mulch), and a wheelbarrow if it is sunny. If it is rainy, some rags and a bucket will come in handy. This is your opportunity to donate a little time and make a big difference in the appearance of our building and grounds.

Tonight at 6:30 the Mid-Week Faith Boost series on Biblical archeology will continue. Come grow your faith!

We’ve had two people hospitalized from our church family: Aloha Fields and Julie Rose. Each is doing well. Please pray for continued healing for Aloha and Julie as well as for comfort for Rosemary Burns’ family and friends. Rosemary’s funeral will be held this morning in our sanctuary.

What do a Victorian doll house, pizza, and clean windows have in common? These are all fund-raisers for the youth mission trip which leaves a month from today. Stop in at the table in the lobby: you can bid on the dollhouse, buy pizza coupons, or sign up for some teens to come work at your house. Will you or someone you love need some help raking leaves in the fall? Coupons for a youth work team to help later in the year are available as well. Please support this very important ministry of our young people and our congregation.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Today I thank you, O God, for the members of my church family. What a powerful force for good we are when each one adds their faith, talents, and gifts to the ministry of the Church of Peace! I pray that my participation will be a blessing to others as theirs is a blessing to me and that together we will serve you faithfully. May your peace and compassion shine upon all of us, especially Aloha Fields, Julie Rose, and the family of Rosemary Burns. I pray in the name of the One we serve, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - May 12, 2011

2011-05-12T06:26:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Last night the church building was buzzing with goings-on. The Loaves and Fishes crew from Holy Name was cleaning up after serving hungry people a hearty meal. The Chapel Choir was rehearsing a lovely new song for Sunday’s service. The confirmands were getting pictures taken and practicing for the rite of confirmation this Sunday. What a joy it is to see this vibrant activity taking place! Join us on Sunday morning at 8:45 as we proclaim the Risen Christ through word and song and welcome our new confirmands into the church family. There will be room for you!

Please hold in tender prayer Rosemary Burns and her family. Rosemary is in hospice care at St. Francis Home. A memorial service for Ruth Magyar will be held this Saturday; please pray for her family as well.

Do you enjoy the History Channel on TV? Are you interested in the origins of the Bible and the archaeology of ancient lands? If so, you will enjoy the Mid-Week Faith Boost gathering tonight as we watch a short film and discuss its significance for our faith. It will be at 6:30 in Gammert Hall.

Next Tuesday, a full busload of Church of Peace members and friends head down to Chicago for a day of friendship, food, and an architectural tour by Curt Behnke.

When you see the doll house that is in Gammert Hall, you will be amazed at its size and detail. It is spectacular and will delight children for generations. You can bid on it in a silent auction which will support our youth mission trip. In addition to the doll house, there will be a table in the narthex where you can sign up for youth workers to come do a project at your home, purchase Eaton’s pizza coupons, or buy a couple of Church of Peace cloth bags. Please support our youth mission trip in these ways.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: Sometimes the needs of the world seem so big and my resources and abilities seem so small, O God. Keep fresh in my mind the truth that every act of kindness or word of encouragement from me today is a step in the direction of peace. Show me how I can best use what I have in your service. Bless with your gentle comfort Rosemary Burns, her family, and the family of Ruth Magyar. These things I pray in the name of the One whose compassion never fails. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - May 5, 2011

2011-05-05T06:58:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Sunday is Mother’s Day and we have a service planned to inspire the whole family. Join us as we give thanks together. Pray with us as we lift before God those for whom Mother’s Day brings feelings of loss or bitterness. The Youth Choir will sing on this Festival of the Christian Home.

Tonight our Thursday evening Mid-Week Faith Boost resumes with a four-part film series on archaeology and the Bible. What historical treasures have been brought to light recently? How do these findings enhance our faith? Join in on the education and the conversation tonight in Gammert Hall at 6:30.

This Sunday morning at 10:00 our LIGHT classes and Chapel Choir will meet in the sanctuary to rehearse for our musical grand finale in worship on May 22^nd. After practice, our children will go to their classes.

We extend our Christian sympathy to the family of George Weber, a Church of Peace member whose funeral was held yesterday.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: As spring slowly opens the flowers and brings new life to this part of the earth, I pray, O God, that you will open my heart and bring new life to me. Release me from attitudes and habits which keep me from enjoying the gifts you pour out for me today. Fill my life with vitality and purpose. May joy rise up like a fountain within me. Give me your vision of the future so I can be filled with hope. I ask your blessings of comfort and peace upon the family of George Weber. I pray remembering Jesus. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - April 28, 2011

2011-04-28T06:19:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Happy Eastertide to you! We continue our celebration of the resurrection of Christ on Sunday with another joyful service. This Sunday our confirmands will reflect with us on some of the Biblical friends of Jesus. The Chapel Choir will sing. Because Holy Communion was celebrated during three services last week, it will not be a part of this Sunday’s worship service. The service will begin at 8:45 a.m.

The Women Retreaters will meet at the church tomorrow evening at 6:00. We look forward to a renewing time together at Pilgrim Center.

The Ladies Aid rummage sale will be held all day Tuesday and on Wednesday morning of this coming week. We can use your no-longer-needed stuff and your baked goods (our most prolific baker is on the sick list). Set-up help on Sunday after worship and on Monday would be deeply appreciated. Thank you to the Ladies Aid for this worthwhile project which helps our neighbors, promotes re-using, and raises money for Church of Peace ministries.

Long-time member George Weber is near the end of his earthly journey, residing now at Hospice Home of Hope. Please remember George and his family in your prayers.

There will be no Mid-Week Faith Boost tonight. A week from tonight a new series will begin which features archeology in the Holy Land, teaching us about the origin of the Bible and about life in Bible times. Plan to be a part of this study series on Thursday evenings in May.

If you have signed up for the Chicago trip and haven’t yet paid, please get the $27.00 to Jackie soon. Thank you.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: My heart is still singing Easter praises to you, O God. What power and love you have demonstrated in the resurrection of Christ! I see that same power at work in my life and I thank you. I would be honored to be an instrument of your love in the lives of others; show me how. I ask your blessings of comfort and peace upon George Weber and his family during this difficult time. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace on Maundy Thursday - April 21, 2011

2011-04-21T08:37:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace on this Maundy Thursday,

Tonight we gather to remember the evening that Jesus instituted the sacrament we call “The Lord’s Supper.” Our service will begin at 7:00 p.m. Holy Communion will be served in the pews. A meditation and the Words of Institution will be presented with haunting music and art on the screen. The Chapel Choir will sing. There will be a children’s sermon. Join us as we participate in Jesus’ last meal and then hear again the story of his heart-wrenching prayer in Gethsemane.

Tomorrow night (Friday) we will commemorate the trial, crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus. Through the extinguishing of candles, the reading of Scripture, reflections by some of the participants in the Biblical story, and significant symbols, we will journey with Jesus through this terrible time. Pastor Jim will sing two solos. The service will begin at 7:00. There will be no sermon or children’s sermon; the Biblical witness will bring the story to life for us. Be prepared to leave the sanctuary in silence with a heavy but hopeful heart.

Sunday is Easter! Our two services (7:00 a.m. and 8:45 a.m.) will celebrate the glorious story of Christ’s resurrection. The flowers in the sanctuary will testify to new life. Altar communion will be served. The Chapel Choir will sing at the first service and will be joined by the Youth Choir and Sunday School children at the second service. We will be blessed with instrumental accompaniment by two of our youth. There will be no Christian Education classes on Easter.

After each Easter service, the youth will serve an enhanced Easter Social Hour; funds raised will go toward the mission trip this summer.

If you donated flowers for the Easter service, you make take them home after the second service. All flowers are labeled this year to prevent the mix-ups of past years, so please make sure you are taking the flowers with your name on them. Thank you for sharing this beauty with us all.

We know of two people who have been hospitalized for surgery this week: Tom Langenhorst and Theresa Schultz. Please remember to thank God for the healing they have experienced.

There is still time to sign up for the Golden Fellowship Lunch and Tour on this coming Tuesday, the Women’s Retreat on Friday night, Co-ed Summer Softball, and the Chicago Architectural Tour. All sign-up sheets are on the lobby bulletin board. There is also a place there to sign-up for the Mother-Daughter Banquet.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O God, I am aware that today, tomorrow, Saturday, and Easter, you will be offering me innumerable opportunities to grow in faithfulness to you.  You have invited me to remember the last days of Jesus’ life and to celebrate Christ’s resurrection.  Open my heart to the growth you offer me.  When Easter breaks forth in happy song, may my spirit be singing with joy and my heart be full of hope. Thank you for the joy and hope that your healing power have brought to all who are sick, especially Tom Langenhorst and Theresa Schultz.  Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - April 13, 2011

2011-04-13T08:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Tonight is the last of our Lenten services for the year. The theme tonight is Christian parenting. Join us (7:00 p.m.) as we see what the Bible has to say about this very important subject, light the Lenten candles, and enjoy the Family Circus’ heart-warming antics. If you’d like to come a little early and help the Church of Peace team clean up after serving Loaves and Fishes, they’d be delighted to have your assistance.

Sunday is Palm Sunday. We cannot wait for you to see the enhancements that our worship team has prepared for this distinctive day in the church year. It will be festive and beautiful. The Chancel Choir will sing. Every worshipper will be able to take home a palm.

This Saturday morning, our church building will be a hub of activity. In addition to the Worship Enhancement Team transforming the sanctuary for Palm Sunday, the Shawl Ministers will be meeting along side a group of crafters who are preparing items for the fall bazaar. All of these groups are friendly; if you think God might want you to use your talents in one of these ways, please come. We’ll start at 8:30 a.m.

PARENTS OF SUNDAY SCHOOL CHILDREN AND CONFIRMANDS: we are counting on your children to sing at the second service on Easter (8:45 a.m.) with the Chapel Choir. All the kids will rehearse with the choir this Sunday (Palm Sunday) at the beginning of the regular Sunday School hour, so please bring your child to the sanctuary right away at 10:00. What a meaningful way for our little ones to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus! Thank you for your cooperation.

In the church lobby, you can sign up for:

Co-ed Summer Church-League Softball (Mondays/over age 16)

April Day Trip for Adult Fellowship

May Tour of Chicago Architecture

Women’s Retreat

Mother-Daughter Banquet

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church! Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: On this warm spring day, it is easy to sense your renewing power, O God. Please touch my life with your healing, invigorating love. Open my eyes to see the opportunities for Christ-like service which you put before me today. May every word I say and everything I chose to do be a step toward peace. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - April 7, 2011

2011-04-07T07:36:00.001-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

One of the Bible’s most visually-interesting stories will be the Scriptural focus for our worship service on Sunday: Ezekiel in the valley of the dry bones. If you are feeling that the uplifting parts of life are drying up, you will find hope in this story. The Youth Choir will sing. The service begins at 8:45.

Linda Beyer and Richard Kimpel are hospitalized out of town. Please pray that God’s healing embrace will bring them strength and health. Funerals for two of our members are being held: Effie Wendt (today) and Ruth Rucks (on Saturday). We will prayerfully entrust them and their loved ones into God’s loving care.

Tomorrow (Friday) at 5:00 p.m., people will begin to gather at Church of Peace to help with the floor polishing extravaganza. We will need help with furniture-moving both on Friday night and during the day on Saturday (beginning at 8:00 a.m.) We are saving thousands of dollars by doing this as a congregational project; please come and help, even for a couple of hours. The Ladies’ Aid is providing lunch on Saturday.

Sunday is COP Day at the YMCA. Anytime between 10:30 and 4:30, just show up at the door and tell them you are from our church. We will have a “headquarters” in the community room where pizza and a soft drink will be available. Members and friends of the church family can use all the equipment at no charge. Even if you aren’t planning to swim or play ball, come for a tour of our good neighbor’s new facilities.

Sunday is the last day that you can place orders for Easter flowers. There will be an order form in the bulletin.

Sign-up sheets are available in the lobby for the Golden Fellowship trips, the craft morning on Saturday, April 16^th, and for the Women’s Retreat.

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church (and at the YMCA!). Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: I’m amazed, dear God, how quickly this Lenten time is speeding by. I’m embarrassed by how often my intention to become more holy during this time has been put on the back burner of day to day life. Please help me today so I may feel growth in faith as its hours go by. Free me from the chains of selfish behavior and lead me to a life of greater discipleship. I pray for Richard Kimpel and Linda Beyer as they grow in strength and health. I pray also for families in our congregation whose lives have been touched by grief in the past week. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Greetings from Church of Peace - March 30, 2011

2011-03-30T07:10:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Church of Peace!

Attention music lovers: tonight’s Lenten service (7:00 p.m.) feature a praise band. Two hymns will be worshipfully accompanied by electric guitar and drums. Join us as we raise our voices in song, lift our hearts in prayer, light the Lenten candles, and learn more about how to live faithfully in today’s world.  You’ll leave spiritually refreshed and renewed. 

Sunday’s gospel story is about the man born blind who is healed by Jesus.  It is the first Sunday of the month so we will be celebrating Holy Communion.  The Chapel Choir will sing.  

A long-time member of our church family, Dorothy Whittaker, died on Monday.  Please remember her family in your prayers.  Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m. a funeral service for Dorothy Whittaker will be held in our sanctuary.   

Erik Spies remains hospitalized in Milwaukee.  Rosemary Burns is now a resident at St. Francis  Home.  Eldon Wohler has moved to All About Life. Please pray that Erik’s leukemia treatments will be successful so he can return home soon and ask God’s blessing upon all our nursing home residents. 

This is the Sunday that the Schwan’s truck will be parked in our parking lot after worship and at the mall in the afternoon.  If you pre-ordered food, you can pick it up.  If not, you will be able to purchase some on Sunday if you wish.  The proceeds from this fund-raiser will go to our Martha Society; they in turn will use it to further the ministry of Church of Peace.

You can sign up in the church lobby for:

 Floor Cleaning, April 8th and 9th 

 YMCA Sunday, April 10th

 Loaves and Fishes served by Church of Peace, April 13th 

 Women’s Retreat, April 29th and 30th

 Golden Fellowship Trip to New Holstein, April 26th

 Golden Fellowship Trip to Chicago, May 17th

That’s the news from Church of Peace.

We’ll see you in church!  Pastors Jenny and Jim

A prayer for today: O God, during this day, I will have ample opportunities to choose to do good or to do what is wrong, to touch someone’s life with compassion or to think only of myself, to make my Christianity a priority or just an after-thought.  Please guide me to be a faithful, moral, kind person.  Then I will reflect the gratitude I feel in my heart to you.  I pray for your loving blessing to rest upon the Whittaker family, Erik Spies, Eldon Wohler, and Rosemary Burns.  Amen. 

Church of Peace Mid-Week Greetings

2011-03-29T17:46:00.000-07:00

Hello! You have arrived at the Church of Peace Mid-Week Greetings blog. It has been created to give readers a glimpse into what is happening at Church of Peace during the upcoming weekend. Posts will be made on Thursday except during Lent when posts will be entered on Wednesday. We hope this is helpful to you. Stay in touch! Blessings, Pastors Jenny Dawson and Jim Martin