To Know Nothing But Christ

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1 Newsletter of Morning Star Lutheran Church ~ Missouri Synod Lakeside, California View in full color at: FEBRUARY 2019 To Know Nothing But Christ If you look at the letters of St. Paul, you will see a point at which he tells the people that "I knew nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified". In other words, Paul tells the believers (in Corinth in this case) that his main focus, his primary goal, and his deepest wish for them as their Pastor is that through his work and his ministry, they have come to a more rich understanding of who Jesus Christ is, and even more importantly what Christ has done in His life, death and resurrection for all. Now, I personally cannot imagine being St. Paul, for many reasons, but my prayer today is the same as his. Like Paul, I have a heart and passion for Pastoral ministry, which means having a heart for God's people and for encouraging them in who they are in Jesus Christ. As I reflect on my final few weeks of ministry here at Morning Star Lutheran Church, my prayer is the same as Paul's -- that I would know nothing else among you except for Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. It is easy for us to confuse MESSENGERS with the MESSAGE. Friends in Christ, do not for one moment fret nor despair over the departure of one messenger, one servant, one Pastor who takes a Call from one great ministry to another. I can tell you confidently that Pastors are people, and even as those Called and Ordained to speak words on behalf of Jesus, they are not the message themselves. I can relate with John the Baptist -- my preferred mode is to be standing on the sidelines, before you but not in front of you, and pointing off into the distance...."behold, the very Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world!". Messengers and mouthpieces can speak, but they are not the Message itself. So please keep me in prayer as I and my family follow God's leading to a new place. However you feel, remember that my children who only know Southern California as home are stepping out in faith, too. Remember that just as God provided His Shepherd at St. Luke's - Toronto, He will provide again here at Morning Star, too. Please keep your NEXT Pastor in prayer -- God has that man already planned out and picked out, and that next Pastor is receiving the gift of a great Congregation and a wonderful people of God in this place. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice (Philippians 4:4 ESV). For myself, I am rejoicing each day in what God has done and what He will continue to do. I thank you for the gift that you have been to me, and to my family. Thank you for making us a part of your families, too. My ministry and my roles as husband and father have been shaped by the years I've spent serving you. I pray that my time here as a Messenger for the One who is the Message has been as much a blessing to you as it has been to me. God's Continued Blessings as You Serve Him with Joy!! Sunday Services 2/3 9:00 a.m. 2/10 10:00 a.m. 2/17 10:00 a.m. 2/24 9:00 a.m. Adult Bible Study, Children s Sunday School & Pre-Confirmation 10:30 a.m. On 2/3 & 2/24 <>< Pastor Justin

Page 2 President s Message Greetings friends and family of MSLC, Hopefully, your Christmas season was blessed as we head into 2019.

Our last three projects remain unfinished, but are getting closer to completion. The research library is just about there and should be ready by February.

2 Page 2 President s Message Greetings friends and family of MSLC, Hopefully, your Christmas season was blessed as we head into We are immediately presented with the challenge of finding a new shepherd. Ours is on his way to Toronto as God has something new in mind for him, and something different in mind for us. Our last three projects remain unfinished, but are getting closer to completion. The research library is just about there and should be ready by February. The website-upgrade is now on temporary hold with the change in pastors, believing that the new one should have a say in the web content. However, I was also informed of a new attendee who is familiar with web-design, so we may be pursuing that option. The mission and bulletin board is still progressing, and will hopefully be functioning by February as well. We had a voters meeting in January to determine the new benevolence receivers for Eight were picked on Sunday with the ninth to be chosen in November, as follows: Concordia Seminary, Dominican Republic Lutheran Mission (DRLM), Lakeside Christian Helps, Lutheran Church Missouri Synod - disaster relief, Rios Canyon Little League, Shepherd s Canyon Retreat Ministry, and Wounded Warriors. The other item discussed was the difference between "1+1+1 and 5 dollar Sunday", and whether we should eliminate one or the other. After a lengthy and productive discussion, we actually agreed to keep both and to make sure that all donations go to the Missions account. Other highlights from the Voters Meeting:: VBS and Easter for KIDS is a go - volunteers will be needed. There are 7 volunteers for the pastoral call committee. A potluck for Pastor Justin s send-off will be on February10th following the joint 10 AM service with Celebration of Faith.. Lots of plants for the Church s landscaping will be needed soon...keep watching the Sanctuary screen for details. and yes, Alicia and I had a great week in Maui. Jerry

Page 3 February is Mite Box Month Remember to bring the mites you ve collected, to church on any Sunday.

watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts.

43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.

It is time to introduce yourself to your Secret Sister of 2018.

3 Page 3 February is Mite Box Month Remember to bring the mites you ve collected, to church on any Sunday. The Bible Story that inspired the Mite Box offering is from Mark 12:41-44 (NIV): Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything all she had to live on. LWML.org lists *national events and mite info. psdlwml.com For WOW (Women of the Word) The official newsletter. LUTHERAN WOMENS MISSIONARY LEAGUE NEWS: Thank you to all who contributed to Orphan Grain Train s collection of toy balls and new socks. It is time to introduce yourself to your Secret Sister of June 20-23: The LWML National Convention is in Mobile, Alabama - details can be found at the LWML.org website. Morning Star LWML Secret Sisters VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE AUDIO/VISUAL TEAM It takes a TEAM! If you are willing to serve during Sunday morning worship on the soundboard, the Pro Presenter slide program, or both (though not at the same time), PLEASE the Church Office morningstarlc@mslc.sdcoxmail.com or speak to Bill Zears or Tom Kuwaszaki. Thank you so much!

Page 4 Senior Citizen Bingo Mondays 1:00 p.m. at Morning Star Lutheran Church.

WIDOWS, WIDOWERS, & FRIENDS GATHER FOR DELICIOUS FOOD (no charge) and BINGO The next Bingo Night is

-5:30 p.m. FACILITY REQUEST FORMS are now located in the back of the church (by your mailbox).

4 Page 4 Senior Citizen Bingo Mondays 1:00 p.m. at Morning Star Lutheran Church. This Ministry is led by Luis & Char Aldas. WIDOWS, WIDOWERS, & FRIENDS GATHER FOR DELICIOUS FOOD (no charge) and BINGO The next Bingo Night is February 23rd, 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. FACILITY REQUEST FORMS are now located in the back of the church (by your mailbox). These are used to help us keep the church calendar accurate and avoid a double booking. (Please allow for set-up time also.) If you need help filling one out, any member of the Board of Directors will be happy to assist you. To keep up with all that is happening in the English District, we encourage you to sign up for the District's weekly e-newsleer at: Whether you are a church worker or congregant, you may subscribe to this free weekly update, which will be delivered straight to your inbox! You may also type the following in your browser for archived issues or access them directly from the above website: hp:// archives-servant-servant

Page 5 2018-2019 GriefShare began on October 20, 2018 and will end on February 16, 2019.

(We will not be meeting on the weekends of the holidays.

and how to deal with the loss from a Christian perspective.

My wife, Chris, and I have facilitated GriefShare groups for over 15 years and are blessed with each new group that we meet.

We have made many new friends and are privileged to watch how our Lord Jesus Christ touches each individual, as they go

For questions or more information, please contact Tom Kuwazaki at 619-895-5730 or by email: tkuwazaki_mslc@cox.

5 Page GriefShare began on October 20, 2018 and will end on February 16, GriefShare is held on Saturday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. meeting in Room 4. (We will not be meeting on the weekends of the holidays.) This program is featured on DVDs that explain what is going on in the life of someone who loses a spouse or family member and how to deal with the loss from a Christian perspective. If you were not able to make it for the first sessions, you can participate at any point of this support group. My wife, Chris, and I have facilitated GriefShare groups for over 15 years and are blessed with each new group that we meet. I am a licensed Deacon and I assist at Morning Star Lutheran Church. We have made many new friends and are privileged to watch how our Lord Jesus Christ touches each individual, as they go through their transition of mourning to His promised Joy. For questions or more information, please contact Tom Kuwazaki at or by tkuwazaki_mslc@cox.net or for more information about GriefShare go to website: In addition to The Lutheran Hour airing in San Diego on KCBQ-1170AM radio every Sunday morning at 8:00 a.m. or listening to The Lutheran Hour 24/7 at Lutheranhour.org, shut-ins can watch sermons on-line at: Worshipforshutins.org. Share this information with those you know who may have difficulty attending church. ~ Lutheran Ministries Media + Hope + Strength + Faith + Survivor Bracelets HOPE STRENGTH FAITH SURVIVOR

Page 6 And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation (Luke 1:50 ESV).

& locations. A B S Sunday Mornings at 10:30 AM The last study with Pastor is February 3rd. C-* S) S.

for convenient access through your mobile device. It is available from : itunes, Google Play, Amazon Appstore, and Windows Phone. www.lhm.

6 Page 6 And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation (Luke 1:50 ESV). W B S Wednesday, February 13th 7:00 PM A Bible Study on Patience, Hope & Trust Chapter 2 "Hannah When Waiting Means Letting Go" We meet at the home of: Kara Birren - Santee W B S F0-, The next Fellowship will be in May. Men s Bible Study / Breakfast Saturday, February 9th at 7:30 AM Location: Denny s Restaurant C C, EL CAJON B S C)* G*, Ask Helen Lewin, Parish Ministry Assistant, for dates, times, & locations. A B S Sunday Mornings at 10:30 AM The last study with Pastor is February 3rd. C-* S) S.- Sunday Mornings (Sep-May) at 10:30 AM Teachers: Emily Braun, Emily Laughridge & Linda Hobson Download the official Daily Devotions application from Lutheran Hour Ministries, designed for convenient access through your mobile device. It is available from : itunes, Google Play, Amazon Appstore, and Windows Phone. CONTEST ~ CONTEST ~ CONTEST As we know, Morning Star had a sign installed in front of the church. It has a religious quote placed in the marquee. If you believe you have an interesting quote from scripture or even the depth of your mind, feel free to submit your quote to the Board of Directors/Morning Star Lutheran Church by for consideration. Periodically, one of the many submitted and approved quotes will be drawn and be honored by having it displayed on our church sign. Interested? Start now. Submit your quotation, rhyme or riddle to Jim Birren.

Page 7 WORSHIP ASSISTANT SCHEDULE FEB MAR 2019 Date LayMin Usher Usher Lector Acolyte Greeter Altar Children's Sermon Treats Teller 3-Feb Dick Jim Kara Helen Phil/Ruth

24-Feb Jerry Chris H Phil Kara Isabella Char B-A Kara Jim Char B-A 3-Mar Dick Jim Kara Gail Phil/Ruth Chris Pastor Alicia Winnie 10-Mar Travis Char B-A Luis Bill Z

Ella K Char B-A 31-Mar tbd Wanda Linda Helen Valerie Kara Pastor MORNING STAR HIGHLIGHTS for : MITE BOX MONTH bring in your mites on any Sunday.

BOD meeting February 10 NOTE: Service at 10:00 a.m. with Celebration of Faith FAREWELL POTLUCK for Pastor Justin & family following the service.

7 Page 7 WORSHIP ASSISTANT SCHEDULE FEB MAR 2019 Date LayMin Usher Usher Lector Acolyte Greeter Altar Children's Sermon Treats Teller 3-Feb Dick Jim Kara Helen Phil/Ruth Chris Pastor Birren Winnie 10-Feb Jim B Char B-A Luis Dick Isabella Jim Liz Mark/Gail Joan Dave 17-Feb Travis Wanda Linda Bill Z Helen Nancy Linda Char B-A Char C 24-Feb Jerry Chris H Phil Kara Isabella Char B-A Kara Jim Char B-A 3-Mar Dick Jim Kara Gail Phil/Ruth Chris Pastor Alicia Winnie 10-Mar Travis Char B-A Luis Bill Z Isabella Mozelle Liz Mark/Gail Chris H Dave 17-Mar Jim B Phil E Chris H Kara Helen L Nancy Linda Chris K Char C 24-Mar Jerry Dick C Travis Jim Isabella Char C Kara Jim Ella K Char B-A 31-Mar tbd Wanda Linda Helen Valerie Kara Pastor MORNING STAR HIGHLIGHTS for : MITE BOX MONTH bring in your mites on any Sunday. February 3 FOOD Drive for Lakeside Christian Helps Center February 6 6:30 p.m. BOD meeting February 10 NOTE: Service at 10:00 a.m. with Celebration of Faith FAREWELL POTLUCK for Pastor Justin & family following the service. February 17 NOTE: Service at 10:00 a.m. with Celebration of Faith Pastor Justin s last Sunday at Morning Star. NEWSLETTER DEADLINE & volunteer needed to write a Front Page article. February 18 President s Day (federal holiday) February 22 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Charity Sewing February 24 $5 Sunday for English District Missions NEXT NEWSLETTER DEADLINE: February 17, 2019 Send ARTICLES and corrections directly to: liddle2@cox.net For Birthdays, Anniversaries, and Other Special Dates in FEBRUARY see the calendar on the last page. NEEDED INSPIRATIONAL / BIBLE-BASED FRONT PAGE ARTICLES....If it is the Lord s will... James 4:15 The Editor Joan

Page 8 12821 Ha Hana Road Lakeside, CA 92040 Phone: 619-443-6032 www.morningstarlcms.org Reverend Justin Laughridge The people of Morning Star believe in the One True God Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

And we believe in God s promise that He will give us the free gift of eternal life through faith in Jesus, who died on the cross and rose again to save us.

Director of Operations Director of Social Ministry Director of Stewardship Deacon Deacon Parish Ministry Assistant Jerel Grambow Travis Carter Wanda Lewellen Char Collingwood Nikki Edwards Emily

Jeromus Birren The Ninteman Family Tacy Romanow s upcoming surgery, Justyn & Avrie Stephenson, William & Yareli Farnese-Stephenson giving birth soon, The Ullrich Family Pearl Walker The Walwick

We also pray for our Pastor & family (especially for safe travel), our Call Committee, BODs, Parish Workers, individual families, and those everywhere who need to know that Jesus loves them no matter

8 Page Ha Hana Road Lakeside, CA Phone: Reverend Justin Laughridge The people of Morning Star believe in the One True God Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We believe that everything God says in His Word, the Bible, is true. And we believe in God s promise that He will give us the free gift of eternal life through faith in Jesus, who died on the cross and rose again to save us. Morning Star s 2019 Board of Directors: President Vice-President Treasurer Financial Secretary BOD Secretary Director Christian Education & Youth Director of Evangelism Director of Lay Ministry Director of Operations Director of Social Ministry Director of Stewardship Deacon Deacon Parish Ministry Assistant Jerel Grambow Travis Carter Wanda Lewellen Char Collingwood Nikki Edwards Emily Braun Chris Kuwazaki Jim Birren Eddie Braun Alicia Grambow vacant Dick Collingwood Tom Kuwazaki Helen Lewin Ongoing Prayers for members and friends of Morning Star: Mary Allene Birren Jeff Birren Jeromus Birren The Ninteman Family Tacy Romanow s upcoming surgery, Justyn & Avrie Stephenson, William & Yareli Farnese-Stephenson giving birth soon, The Ullrich Family Pearl Walker The Walwick Family. All those who lost their homes during recent disasters, -that God bless the Dominican Republic ministry as they prepare for the new Seminary opening. We also pray for our Pastor & family (especially for safe travel), our Call Committee, BODs, Parish Workers, individual families, and those everywhere who need to know that Jesus loves them no matter what. To Update This Page, contact the Church Office. Pray for those in the Armed Forces Cody Harmon, US Army, (Dave & Rose Walwick s son-in-law) Xander Gonzalez, US Marines (Elena s husband, Amber s son-in-law) Harold Kuwazaki, US Marines (Tom & Chris Kuwazaki s nephew) Lucas Nelson Davis, USN (Chris Hill s grandson) Morning Star also has an On-Line Prayer Program Login to: morningstarlcms.org and click on the tab: Contact Us With Your Prayer Requests Type in your prayer, and tap send. ~ Jim Birren, Prayer Coordinator

The Sound of Morning Star Newsletter of Morning Star Lutheran Church ~ Missouri Synod Lakeside, California

The Sound of Morning Star Newsletter of Morning Star Lutheran Church ~ Missouri Synod Lakeside, California Newsletter of Morning Star Lutheran Church ~ Missouri Synod Lakeside, California www.morningstarlcms.org APRIL 2018 Dear Friends in Christ, This newsletter is coming to you at the end of our Holy Week