Parish Rebuilder. Judgment, Justice, and Justification Part I. Quarterly Congregational Meeting. St. Luke s Lutheran Church

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1 Parish Rebuilder ST. LUKE S LUTHERAN CHURCH WILSON ST. LA MESA, CA October 2013 Monthly Newsletter Volume 13 Issue 10 Judgment, Justice, and Justification Part I We invite you to join St. Luke's Lutheran Church Please contact Judy in the office to discuss membership or to arrange an appointment with the pastor: or office-sllc@att.net Table of Contents Pastor Mark page 1 Pastor Mark page 2 Outreach/Heifer/Potpourri page 3 Book Club/WSL page 4 Altar Guild/Parish Education page 5 Renovation Photos page 6 Birthdays/G&M/Worship Text page 7 Prayer Calendar page 8 Worship Teams page 9 Calendar page 10 St. Luke s Lutheran Church Quarterly Congregational Meeting October 27, 2013 Following Services On 31 October, Protestants, particularly Lutherans, celebrate Reformation Day. The 31st of October is also known as All Hallows Eve, the day preceding All Saints Day on 01 November. That is why most Americans know 31 October as Halloween, As Lutherans are generally aware, on 31 October 1517, Martin Luther published his 95 Theses Against Indulgences. Indulgences are an invention of the Roman Church designed to shorten one s time in an invented place called purgatory. Purgatory is conceived as a place like hell where one is purged of one s remaining sin in order to be purified for admittance into heaven. This past summer, Pope Francis issued yet another indulgence in connection with World Youth Day held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, last July. The indulgence could be obtained in part by following the pope on Twitter! In Luther s day, indulgences were sold with the motto, As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, a soul from purgatory springs. Nowadays, the motto might be, When the Pope on the internet tweets, purgatorybound souls get treats! As the 31 October is both Reformation Day and Halloween, are indulgences a trick or a treat? Luther would say that they are a trick. The pope would say a treat. Who is right? When tempting Adam and Eve to take and taste the fruit from the tree in the midst of the garden, the serpent said, For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing

2 good and evil (Genesis 3:5 - ESV). This empty promise is full of subtle irony. In order to be like God, knowing good and evil, Adam and Eve would first disregard God s word, would then disobey God, and would finally do evil. Since then, sinful humanity has not changed much, continually carrying on the same way deluded into believing that we are like God, knowing good and evil. Such is the nature and reality of human sin. With such inborn propensity to be wholly unlike God, how can sinful human beings know the difference between good and evil at all? How can any of us judge what is right and what is wrong, and more personally, who is right and who is wrong. In relation to the church and its proclamation and practices, what in the name of God is a trick and what is a treat and who is right? Rightly (or wrongly), to make a distinction between good and evil, one needs to make judgments. Being judged and judging are inescapable realities of human life. People make decisions for and about us long before we can make our own judgments and decisions. With time, we either enjoy the benefits or suffer the consequences of our judgments and decisions. Complicating matters further is the fact that the results and repercussions of our judgments and decisions are either not immediate or remain unknown to us. When known, what often seemed good or evil at one time can later be perceived as exactly the opposite, as Adam and Eve learned all too well for the rest of humanity. In western culture, particularly where Christendom once held sway, the world s mores are in disarray. Religious humanists are at odds with religious fundamentalists of all stripes. Secularists dispute the right and rights of faith-based approaches to societal structures and dynamics. Modern Christians, caught and confused in such complexities, scrambling for clarity and security, find themselves not only at odds with members of other denominations but also with members of their own denominations. As a result, Christians today are often more divided by culture than theological confession. For example, is prayer in schools right or wrong? Is abortion right or wrong? Is same-sex marriage right or wrong? While stating that church teaching is clear on such matters, even Pope Francis is reported as saying that he cannot judge. In contrast, the U.S. Supreme Court has made judgments on such matters but by whose standards? In his book Kingdom of God in America published in 1937, H. Richard Niebuhr summed the overall modern situation as such, A God without wrath brought men without sin into a Kingdom without judgment through the ministrations of a Christ without a Cross (193). Today, unfortunately, even this insightful assessment about men might be judged to be too sexist to gain a rightful hearing. For better or for worse, Niebuhr s portrayal of modern humanity s vacuous understanding of God s righteousness is a far cry from Luther s experience prior to his Reformation discovery of a wrathful God raking souls over the coals of hell and purgatory. Reflecting upon his Reformation discovery, Luther described his religious life so, Though I lived as a monk without reproach, I felt that I was a sinner before God with an extremely disturbed conscience. I could not believe that he was placated by my satisfaction. I did not love, yes, I hated the righteous God who punishes sinners, and secretly, if not blasphemously, certainly murmuring greatly, I was angry with God, and said, As if, indeed, it is not enough, that miserable sinners, eternally lost through original sin, are crushed by every kind of calam- 2

3 ity by the law of the decalogue, without having God add pain to pain by the gospel and also by the gospel threatening us with his righteousness and wrath! Thus I raged with a fierce and troubled conscience. Our On-Going Outreach TACO 3 What accounts for this monumental shift in perspective of both God and humanity between Luther s day and secularized Christianity today? Could one not justifiably argue that Luther s rediscovery of justification by faith alone (apart from works of the law) itself has led incrementally to modernity s emasculation and evisceration of God? Figuratively, is this not why Halloween (and bobbing for apples) has effectively supplanted nearly all cognizance of Reformation Day? Even the U.S. Supreme Court would not hazard an opinion on this matter. So, who is right and who is wrong? What is good and what is evil? Who can reserve for him- or herself proper justification to make judgements for justice? (Part II in November) The insert included in the Parish Rebuilder this month tells it all: Outreach is sponsoring an inhouse, St. Luke s Oktoberfest. We sincerely hope many in the congregation will attend and hope that there will be room for some friends and neighbors also to come. Tickets are limited. Lutheran Border Concerns Ministry (LCBM) The red Flyer wagon in the church narthex was filled to overflowing with school supplies! Ramon Contreras, Ministry Coordinator, has picked up your donations which will now go to needy students across the border. Thanks so very much for all you contributed! Many Thanks from MaryAnn Parish Potpourri Dear St. Luke s Family, Thank you so very much for all your prayers, cards, and flowers during my time of illness and convalescence. You have no idea how much you all mean to me and your thoughtfulness has carried me through this difficult time. It was through all the prayers that God has granted me life and I will be forever grateful to all of you. Pastor Mark s visit was so uplifting and I am still in shock that he would travel so far to serve me communion. I am truly blessed! I love you all. MaryAnn Boullain Continuing our salute to volunteers, this gentleman is always at the Monday early-evening meal sponsored by TACO at First Lutheran, namely Randy Engel. Randy constantly observes when a second or third pot of soup is needed, when extra trays are crucial, and when a young server might need a little assistance. Randy is also on TACO s Board of Directors. Of course, many of us know that he also spends a good deal of his Sunday mornings and on other occasions ushering at St. Luke s. The next time you see Randy, give him a hug and let him know you appreciate his dedicated service.

4 4 A Little Humor Women of St. Luke s (WSL) The sentence: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog" uses every letter of the alphabet. (Anyone who has had a typing class knows this!) TYPEWRITER is the longest word that can be made using the letters only on one row of the keyboard. Peanuts are one of the ingredients of dynamite! The average person's left hand does 56% of the typing. Women blink nearly twice as much as men. Book Club Exciting things are happening at the Book Club at St. Luke's. The book on October 30th is entitled And the Mountains Echoed (by Khaled Hosseini). On November 27th we will discuss Starved Rock (by Richard Applegate). Book Club meets the last Wednesday of each month at noon in the church library. We all bring something to share for lunch while we discuss the book and matters of the day that pertain to relevant themes. As just indicated, we are privileged to have guest speaker Richard Applegate attend our November discussion group. Richard Applegate, alumnus of the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign, will share how he came to write his book Starved Rock and the Illiniwek. This is an intriguing story taking place in the 1760s about a little known Indian nation called the Illiniwek that was besieged by Chief Pontiac. This historical novel based on legendary events describes the demise of this once-powerful Illinois Indian nation, which is available in St. Luke's Library. As we have opportunity, let us do good to all (Galatians 1:10 NKJV) With over 140 in attendance, the WSL Fall Gathering took place on Saturday, September 14. Carol Le Beau, the guest speaker, was tremendous. So many guests made remarks like, Even though I have heard Carol speak before, her talk really touched me today. I needed to hear her testimony. That is truly wonderful. WSL thanks Judi Dunnigan for inviting Carol to be the guest speaker. WSL chose Voices for Children as the Gathering s local beneficiary organization. We wish to thank Susan Smith, their Volunteer Coordinator, for her inspiring message. She talked about the importance of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) as the major part of their program, stressing that they are the only court appointed volunteer organization that is allowed to speak for children in the legal justice system. The WSL Board did a splendid job in organizing the Fall Gathering. Kudos to Cathie Floegel who chaired the Fall Gathering Committee for her hard work, good organization, and helpful communication skills. WSL also wants to thank Ben Wilson, the sound technician, Garrett Steppat, the event photographer, and finally Sue Caldwell, St. Luke s Director of Music, for her delightful piano music throughout the gathering. Team effort made the preparations for the event very enjoyable. WSL thanks the church council for their support. Don Dengerink crafted lovely artwork for posters, mailings, and tickets. Last but not least, WSL thanks St. Luke s staff members, Eugenio Cruz, Judy Jones, and Whitney Utley for their collaboration and support which

5 5 was offered above and beyond their own duties. You are the best. Other WSL News I want to remind everyone that our Thank Offering month is drawing near. Please be generous with your gifts because your gifts allow WSL to serve and support projects and missions known to our church community. We thank you in advance. Both Deborah Circle and Rebekah Circle are back in session. Both circles meet during the week in the morning. Deborah Circle gathers in homes at 10:00 am on the third Thursday of each month. Their Circle leader is Joann Hendrickson. The Rebekah Circle meets the second Tuesday of each month in the church library at 10:00 am. Their Circle Leader is Betty Wiedmer. For more information on either circle, please call Marge Hersom People make plans in their minds, but only the Lord can make them come true. Depend in the Lord in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. (Proverbs 16:1,3) If Saturday morning is too busy, why not try lunchtime or even another day of the week? It might be an opportune time to place items in the children s sermon box! At present, Altar Guild tends to meet at 8:00 or 9:00 o'clock in the morning in the Sacristy (the little room behind the organ) to prepare items for Sunday services. You could call this a labor of love, but it is hardly any labor at all. Teams of three or four persons volunteer for about 60 to 90 minutes performing simple duties each week during their team s month of service. Each team serves twice annually, six months apart. Spending time in the church when few are there is very peaceful. All is quiet. The light shining through the beautiful, stained-glass windows makes everything sparkle, and the red, sanctuary carpet leads the eye to that beautiful cross. It is a special, lovely moment to experience. To do so on a regular basis is even better. Altar Guild is not restricted to women. Men and couples are welcome to serve. If you have questions, please call Bev Holland, St. Luke s Altar Guild Coordinator. She would love to hear from you! Parish Education Opportunities Altar Guild - Attention Guys 'N Dolls St. Luke s Altar Guild is recruiting new members to assist preparations for Sunday services. Being innovative, Altar Guild would be grateful if couples would consider serving together. Do you enjoy going out for breakfast with your spouse on a Saturday morning? Why not combine that with a stop at the church to set up communion, to replenish the candles, and to undertake other important preparations for worship? Sunday School for All ages, each Sunday from 10:30-11:15 am Catechism Class, Tuesday evenings, from 6:00 6:50 pm St. Luke s Theological Academy Introduction to the Christian Faith, Sundays, 4:00 5:30 pm Don t forget the Ladies Circles mentioned above.

6 6 The Lower Level Renovations continue to make progress! It is hoped that works will be completed toward the end of October!

7 OCTOBER WORSHIP TEXT 7 6th Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost Happy October Birthday to you. First Lesson Habakkuk 1: 1-4; 2: 1-4 Second Lesson 2 Timothy 1: 1-14 Gospel Luke 17: 5-10 Disa Campbell Gail Knippelmeyer Matthew Mylerbergs 10/04 Louis Alfeld 10/07 Victoria Hauk 10/20 Jack Hendrickson 10/28 13th 20th Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost First Lesson 2 Kings 5: 1-3, 7-15c Second Lesson 2 Timothy 2: 8-15 Gospel Lesson Luke 17: Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost First Lesson Genesis 32: Second Lesson 2Timothy 3: 14 4: 5 Gospel Luke 18: 1-8 DID YOU KNOW! Our monthly newsletter is printed free because of generous people / companies that advertise. It is true, and we need to let these generous people know that we appreciate them. If you are in need of a vehicle: PLEASE CALL and THANK. Drew Ford 8970 La Mesa Blvd. La Mesa, CA Make sure you tell them you heard about them from St. Luke s Newsletter! 27nd Reformation Sunday First Lesson Jeremiah 31: Second Lesson Romans 3: Gospel John 8: Gifts and Memorials Donna Bohnsack Glen Bohnsack

8 OCTOBER PRAYER CALENDAR 8 All Things in Christ 1 Romans 6: 3-5, 10, Corinthians 1: You are the way; through You alone 3 1 Corinthians 15: Can we the Father find; 4 1 Corinthians 1: 4-9 In You, O Christ, has God revealed 5 Galatians 3: His heart, His will, His mind! 6 Colossians 1: Colossians 2: 1-6 You are the truth; Your Word alone 8 Romans 6: True Wisdom can impart; 9 2 Corinthians 5: You only can inform the mind 10 Colossians 2: 9-12 And purify the heart Corinthians 1: Ephesians 1: 3-8 You are the life; the rending tomb 13 Philippians 3: 8-11 Proclaims your conquering arm; 14 John 1: 1-5 And those who put their trust in You 15 Philippians 4: 4-7 Not death nor hell shall harm. 16 Colossians 3: Corinthians 4: 7-11 You are the way, the truth, the life; 18 Romans 8: 1-4 Grant us that way to know, 19 Hebrews 1: 1-3 That truth to keep, that life to win, 20 Ephesians 4: Whose joys eternal flow John 4: Romans 8: Hymn Romans 12: 1-5 Versus 1,2,3,4 24 Ephesians 1: LBW 25 Galatians 2: Ephesians 2: John 5: John 15: John 5: Thessalonians 1: John 17: 20-26

9 OCTOBER WORSHIP TEAMS 9 Reader Altar Guild Sound Technician Marge Hersom Terry East Roger Caldwell and Andy Killion 6th Communion Assistant Bread Terry East Prayers of the People Projectionist Communion Assistants Wine Greeters Usher Team Acolytes Bev Holland Emily Rose Menacher Liz and Judi Dunnigan Ellis Peterson and Loraine Wininger Shirley Carrington Billy Miles and Grace Menacher 13th Communion Assistant Bread Shirley Carrington Prayers of the People Projectionist Communion Assistants Wine Greeters Usher Team Acolytes Bev Holland Richard Utley Liz and Judi Dunnigan Chuck Volker Chuck Hersom Billy Miles and Grace Menacher 20th Communion Assistant Bread Terry East Prayers of the People Pastor Mark Menacher Projectionist Emily Rose Menacher Communion Assistants Wine Liz Dunnigan and Cathie Floegel Greeters Ellis Peterson and Marilyn Burns Usher Team Randy Engel Acolytes Billy Miles and Grace Menacher 27th Communion Assistant Bread Judi Dunnigan Prayers of the People Bev Holland Projectionist Richard Utley Communion Assistant Wine Liz Dunnigan and Cathie Floegel Greeters The Utley Family Usher Team George Hauk Acolytes Billy Miles and Grace Menacher

10 6 9:00 am Worship Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 10: 30 am Sunday School All Ages 12-5:00 pm La Mesa Oktoberfest 4-5:30 pm Academy 13 9:00 am Worship 10: 30 am Sunday School All Ages 2:00 pm Private Wedding 4-5:30 pm Academy 20 9:00 am Worship 10: 30 am Sunday School All Ages 4-5:30 pm Academy TBA 27 9:00 am Worship 10: 30 am Sunday School All Ages 2:00 pm Private Wedding 4-5:30 pm Academy 7 9:00 am Counters 6:15 pm AA/Big Book Club in FC 14 Columbus Day Staff Holiday Office Closed 6:15 pm AA/Big Book 21 Club in FC 9:00 am Counters 6:15 pm AA/Big Book Club in FC 28 9:00 am Counters 6:15 pm AA/Big Book Club in FC 1 10:00 am WSL 6:00 pm Catechism 8 Class 9:30 am Project Day 6:00 pm Catechism 15 Class 9:00 am Counters 10:00 am Outreach 6:00 pm Catechism 22 Class 9:30 am Project Day 6:00 pm Catechism 29 Class 6:00 pm Catechism OCTOBER 2013 Class 2 11:00 am Staff 7:00 pm Choir Rehearsal 9 11:00 am Staff 7:00 pm Choir Rehearsal 16 11:00 am Staff 7:00 pm Choir Rehearsal 23 11:00 am Staff 7:00 pm Choir Rehearsal 30 11:00 am Staff Noon Book Club Library 7:00 pm Choir Rehearsal :30 pm Finance 6:30 pm Exec. 7:00 pm Council Reformation Day 4 11 am 11pm La Mesa Oktoberfest am Altar Guild 11 am 11pm La Mesa Oktoberfest 9-10 am Altar Guild 9-10 am Altar Guild 9-10 am Altar Guild

11 S T. L U K E S L U T H E R A N C H U R C H W I L S O N S T. L A M E S A, C A Phone: Webpage: office-sllc@att.net NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID EL CAJON,CA PERMIT NO 262 Dated Material October 2013 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED A WARM WELCOME TO ALL Worship Service: Sundays, 9:00 am in the Sanctuary. St. Luke s Theological Academy: Sundays, from 4:00 5: 30 pm Sunday School for all ages: Sundays at 10:30 am. Catechism Class: Tuesdays at 6 pm in the Church office. La Mesa Oktoberfest: October 4th, 5th and 6th. Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am 11:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 pm 5:00 pm. St. Luke s Mission Statement: We are called as a community of Christians saved by grace through faith alone in Jesus Christ to spread the Holy Gospel in word, sacrament, and action soli deo gloria.