Lutheran Church. e n t e r. t e x t

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1 L A K E O C O N E E Lutheran Church A Stephen Ministry Congregation Our vision is to become an expanding community of faith, growing in the Holy Spirit and practicing before the world a Christ-centered life. Lord willing, we will do this with Outreach that is inviting, interesting, and inclusive; with Serving the Seniors of our large area; and with Worship that goes beyond Sunday morning. A Monthly Newsletter T July 2016 y p Pastor!!! Rev. Andrew Schroeder e!!! lolc@plantationcable.net Sunday Service!! 10:30 a.m. t Secretary!!! Debbie Krahling o! 1 st, 3 rd, & 5 th!! Holy Communion!!! lolcsec@plantationcable.net 1089 Lake Oconee Parkway Eatonton, Georgia Church Office e n t e r t e x t! 2 nd & 4 th!! Morning Prayer Church School!! 9:00 a.m. Choir Practice!! 9:00 a.m. Visit our web site: Pastor s Column The Augsburg Confession On Saturday, June 25, 1530, at three o clock in the afternoon, Dr. Christian Beyer read the Augsburg Confession before the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, emissaries of the Pope, the German Princes, and a couple of hundred other dignitaries, and spoke loud enough to be in earshot of a large crowd of onlookers outside in the surrounding courtyard. When Dr. Beyer finished reading, Dr. Gregory Brück took the German copy of the Confession from him and handed it to the emperor along with a copy written in Latin and said, Most gracious Emperor, this is a Confession that will even prevail against the gates of hell, with the grace and help of God. The Augsburg Confession was and is THE foundational document of the Lutheran reformation. It was never about splitting the Church or creating a new one. The reformation and the Augsburg Confession were all about confessing the truth of the Gospel from God s holy Word, and calling the Church and her leaders back to trust in Christ alone. June 25, 1530, is a date even more important for Lutherans and all Christians than the more common date associated with the reformation October 31, 1517, when Luther posted the "Ninetyfive Theses." In honor of the presentation of the Augsburg Confession, we will Serve God, Serve Man 1

2 publish each month one of the Articles of the confession. In keeping with the original presentation, which was both in German and in Latin, translations from both will appear. often interesting is to compare not only the differences in words but also how they are alike and how they enhance the overall meaning. Chief Articles of Faith Article I: Of God. 1] Our Churches, with common consent, do teach that the decree of the Council of Nicaea concerning the Unity of the Divine Essence and concerning the Three Persons, is true and to be believed without any doubting; 2] that is to say, there is one Divine Essence which is called and which is God: eternal, without body, without parts, of infinite power, wisdom, and goodness, the Maker and Preserver of all things, visible and invisible; and 3] yet there are three Persons, of the same essence and power, who also are coeternal, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. And the term "person" 4] they use as the Fathers have used it, to signify, not a part or quality in another, but that which subsists of itself. 5] They condemn all heresies which have sprung up against this article, as the Manichaeans, who assumed two principles, one Good and the other Evil: also the Valentinians, Arians, Eunomians, Mohammedans, and all such. 6] They condemn also the Samosatenes, old and new, who, contending that there is but one Person, sophistically and impiously argue that the Word and the Holy Ghost are not distinct Persons, but that "Word" signifies a spoken word, and "Spirit" signifies motion created in things. Blessings, Pastor Andy I will speak of your statues before kings, O Lord, and will not be put to shame. Introit Presentation of the Augsburg Confession, Psalm 119:46 2 Serve God, Serve Man

3 LOLC offers many opportunities for Bible Study and fellowship: A choice of 2 classes on Sunday mornings Tuesday mornings Thursday mornings and evenings Thursday Bible Study Thursday Bible study that meets with Pastor Andy continues with a study of the Apostle Paul s Letter to the Galatians. The morning session meets at 10 a.m. Please note the change in time for the evening class now at 6 p.m. Ladies Bible Study This class on summer recess. When it resumes, it meets on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 a.m. in the back of the church. Serve God, Serve Man 3

4 L A K E O C O N N E L U T H E R A N C H U R C H Pastor s Sunday Bible Study This class meets at 9 a.m. each Sunday and is currently a study of the Prophet Micah. 1. Find out: what and where Morosheth of Gath is. 2. Find out: How to pronounce them. 3. Find out: Did Micah prophesy about Jesus? 4. Find out: Who wins the Lawsuit?! BIBLE CLASS Corner With Roger Martinson Bible Lectionary This class focuses on the weekly scripture appointed by the Lectionary, including the Old Testament lesson, Psalm, Epistle, and Gospel readings. Class meets at 9 a.m. in the corner Sunday School room. 4 Serve God, Serve Man

5 Edited From James.aspx St. James the Great, the First Apostolic Martyr The son of Zebedee and Salome (Matthew 27:56; Mark 15:40; Mark 16:1). Zahn 1 asserts that Salome was the daughter of a priest. James is styled "the Greater" to distinguish him from the Apostle James "the Less, who was probably shorter of stature. We know nothing of St. James's early life. He was the brother of John, the beloved disciple, and probably the elder of the two. His parents seem to have been people of means as appears from the following facts: Zebedee was a fisherman of the Lake of Galilee who probably lived in or near Bethsaida (John 1:44), perhaps in Capharnaum, and had some boatmen or hired men as his usual attendants (Mark 1:20). Salome was one of the pious women who afterwards followed Christ and "ministered unto him of their substance" (Matthew 27:55, Mark 15:40; Mark 16:1; Luke 8:2 Luke 23:55-24:1). St. John was personally known to the high priest (John 18:16) and must have had wherewithal to provide for the Mother of Jesus (John 19:27). According to Acts 4:13, John probably (and consequently his brother James) had not received the technical training of the rabbinical schools; in this sense they were unlearned and without any official position among the Jews. But, according to the social rank of their parents, they must have been men of ordinary education, in the common walks of Jewish life. They had frequent opportunity of coming in contact with Greek life and language, which were already widely spread along the shores of the Galilean Sea. The Galilean origin of St. James in some degree explains the energy of temper and the vehemence of character that earned for him and St. John the name of Boanerges, "sons of thunder" (Mark 3:17). The Galilean race was religious, hardy, industrious, brave, and the strongest defender of the Jewish nation. When John the Baptist proclaimed the kingdom of the Messias, St. John became a disciple (John 1:35). He was directed to "the Lamb of God" and afterwards brought his brother James to the Messias. The obvious meaning of John 1:41 is that St. Andrew finds his brother (St. Peter) first and that afterwards St. John (who does not name himself, according to his habitual and characteristic reserve and silence about himself) finds his brother (St. James). The call of St. James to the discipleship of the Messias is reported in a parallel or identical narration by Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:19 sq.; and Luke 5:1-11. The two sons of Zebedee, as well as Simon (Peter) and his brother Andrew with whom they were in partnership (Luke 5:10), were called by the Lord upon the Sea of Galilee, where all four with Zebedee and his hired servants were engaged in their ordinary occupation of fishing. The sons of Zebedee "forthwith left their nets and father, and followed him" (Matthew 4:22), and became "fishers of men. St. James was afterwards with the other eleven called to the Apostleship (Matthew 10:1-4; Mark 3:13-19; Luke 6:12-16; Acts 1:13). In all four lists the names of Peter and Andrew, James and John form the first group, a prominent and chosen group (Mark 13:3), especially Peter, James, and John. These three Apostles alone were admitted to be present at the miracle of the raising of Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:37; Luke 8:51), at the Transfiguration (Mark 9:1; Matthew 17:1; Luke 9:28), and the Agony in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:37; Mark 14:33). That the name of James occurs always (except in Luke 8:51; 9:28; Acts 1:13 Greek Text) before that of his brother seems to imply that James was the elder of the two. Worthy of notice is Serve God, Serve Man 5

6 St. James, Rembrandt Van Rijn Leiden ( Amsterdam) that James is never mentioned in the Gospel of St. John; this author observes a humble reserve not only with regard to himself, but also about the members of his family. Several incidents scattered through the first three Gospels suggest that James and John had that particular character indicated by the name "Boanerges," sons of thunder, given to them by the Lord (Mark 3:17): they were burning and impetuous in their evangelical zeal and severe in temper. The two brothers showed their fiery temperament against "a certain man casting out devils" in the name of the Christ. John, answering, said, "We [James is probably meant] forbade him, because he followeth not with us" (Luke 9:49). When the Samaritans refused to receive Christ, James and John said, "Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them? (Luke 9:54). On the last journey to Jerusalem, their mother Salome came to the Lord and said to Him, "Say that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand and the other on thy left, in thy kingdom" (Matthew 20:21). In addition, the two brothers, still ignorant of the spiritual nature of the Messianic Kingdom, joined with their mother in this eager ambition (Mark 10:37). Then on their assertion that they are willing to drink the chalice that He drinks of, and to be baptized with the baptism of His sufferings, Jesus assured them that they will share His sufferings (Mark 5:38-39). James won the crown of martyrdom fourteen years after this prophecy, A.D. 44. Herod Agrippa 6 I, son of Aristobulus and grandson of Herod the Great, reigned at that time as "king" over a wider dominion than that of his grandfather. His great object was to please the Jews in every way, and he showed great regard for the Mosaic Law and Jewish customs. In pursuance of this policy, on the occasion of the Passover of A.D. 44, he perpetrated cruelties upon the Church, whose rapid growth incensed the Jews. Arrests, beatings, and intimidation had become common. A group of believers were randomly rounded up and carted off to Herod s dungeon. Among them happened to be one of the apostles James. The event seemed little more than the usual inconvenient harassment that the Roman leaders felt obligated to perform at the insistence of certain Jewish leaders, who seemed obsessed with the followers of Jesus. But things took a sudden turn when James was hauled out without fanfare and summarily executed by the sword. The church in Jerusalem was stunned; their opponents were elated (Acts 12:1-2). The zealous temper of James and his leading part in the Jewish Christian communities probably led Agrippa to choose him as the first victim. "He killed James, the brother of John, with the sword. (Acts 12:1-2). According to a tradition, which, as we learn from Eusebius 2 (Church History II.9.2-3), was received from Clement of Alexandria 3 (in the seventh book of his lost Hypotyposes), the accuser who led the Apostle to judgment, moved by his confession, became himself a Christian, and they were Serve God, Serve Man

7 L A K E O C O N N E L U T H E R A N C H U R C H beheaded together. As Clement testifies expressly that the account was given him "by those who were before him," this tradition has a better foundation than many other traditions and legends respecting the Apostolic labors and death of St. James, which are related in the Latin "Passio Jacobi Majoris," the Ethiopic "Acts of James," and so on. According to tradition, St. James the Greater, having preached Christianity in Spain, returned to Judea and was put to death by order of Herod. His body was miraculously translated to Iria Flavia in the northwest of Spain and later to Compostela. In the context of history, fourteen years does not represent a large time span. But Jesus active ministry only covered three years. The question becomes, then, what were James and the other apostles doing during those first fourteen years before James was martyred at the hands of Herod s soldiers? During the years following Jesus ascension, an uneasy relationship developed between the growing movement of Christians in Jerusalem, those Jewish leaders who had rejected Christ s claims and helped to have Him killed, and the Roman authorities who were charged with keeping the peace. Order was often maintained by the use of threats and torture. The early chapters of the book of Acts provide glimpses of the ebb and flow of the persecution of believers. But Luke records a significant moment involving Gamaliel, the rabbi who was Saul s mentor. He was not opposed to the persecution of believers, but he cautioned his fellow members of the Sanhedrin against killing Christians. He understood the power of martyrdom. Gamaliel said, And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it least you even be found to fight against God. (Acts 5:38-39). This tactic of toleration may have kept many believers in Jerusalem and thus slowed down the process of taking the gospel to the world. Stephen s and James deaths eventually changed all of that. The fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 served to scatter the church to the winds. Each of us has our own uniqueness and contribution to offer Jesus. But unlike James, our faith has not been shaped by actually seeing the miracles of Jesus or being there for His Transfiguration. We did not get to spend three years travelling with Him during His ministry. James strength came from being a part of Jesus ministry and knowing God s Word. Like James, you and I must stand against the forces of evil that would attempt to still the Word of God. We must share the Word regardless of the ridicule directed at us. James stood up and James stood out and James stood by Jesus even as Agrippa put the sword to his neck. For all the martyrs, for Jesus Christ, and for our own peace of mind, we must live, breathe, and share the Love of Jesus Christ always. The Cross of Saint James, the symbol of the Order of Santiago. The hilt is surmounted with a scallop. Serve God, Serve Man 7

8 L A K E O C O N N E L U T H E R A N C H U R C H [1] Theodore Zahn ( ) German Lutheran theologian, patristic scholar (study of early church fathers), and New Testament exegete was born in Mors, Rhenish Prussia. He taught at the universities of Goettingen ( ), Kiel ( ), Erlangen ( and ), and Leipzig ( ). He was the author of many important monographs and commentaries. Nevertheless, his influence was underrated because he defended the conservatives in New Testament studies, opposing the radical critics of the Bible. Among his leading works was his three-volume Introduction to the New Testament ( ; English translation 1909). [2] Eusebius of Caesarea was the bishop of Caesarea in Palestine during the early fourth century. He was a prominent personality during the period when Christianity was recognized by Constantine the Great, ending the persecutions, and he participated in the First Council of Nicea. He is famous for his writings, particularly his Church History or Ecclesiastical History (Historia Ecclesiastica). He is often referred to as Eusebius Pamphili because of his close friendship with Pamphilius, the founder of the major library in Caesarea. [3] Clement of Alexandria (Titus Flavius Clemens) was the first well-known theologian of the Church of Alexandria. He was born about the middle of the 2nd century and died between 211 and 216. A Prayer for all Conditions of Men. O GOD, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind, we humbly beseech thee for all sorts and conditions of men; that thou wouldest be pleased to make thy ways known unto them, thy saving health unto all nations. More especially we pray for thy holy Church universal; that it may he so guided and governed by thy good Spirit, that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. Finally, we commend to thy fatherly goodness all those who are any ways afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body, or estate; that it may please thee to comfort and relieve them, according to their several necessities; giving them patience under their sufferings, and a happy issue out of all their afflictions. And this we beg for Jesus Christ s sake. Amen. O LORD Jesus Christ, who saidst unto thine Apostles, Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; Regard not our sins, but the faith of thy Church; and grant to it that peace and unity which is according to thy will, who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen. 8 Serve God, Serve Man

9 The Widow s mite of Mark 12: is the inspiration for the LWML mite boxes. Mites The Ladies of the Church organize mites collections on a continuous basis. The third Sunday of each month is the official Mites Sunday after which the monies gathered go to the Lutheran Women's Missionary League to support various ministries around the world. Recent mites collections: June $50. Detailed information is available at and on Facebook. The third Sunday of the month is designated Mite Sunday, but donations are always welcome. We express heartfelt thanks for your charitable generosity. Susan Larson BLESSING BAGS What are they? " Simply stated, Blessing Bags are a creative way to help those in need. Pack small Ziploc bags with appropriate contents ready to pass out to homeless folks. They can contain items such as warm gloves and socks, small water bottles, granola bars, small tuna cans, trail mix, toothbrushes/toothpaste, multipurpose wipes, chapstick, hand sanitizer, tissue packs, quarters for the laundromat, restaurant gift cards, such as McDonalds or Subway, and small hotel toiletries. Simply label the bag Blessing Bag. " Be proactive and think ahead. Store a few of these bags in your car so that they are ready to hand out when you are in an area where folks are in need. In the past few months, some of us have encountered homeless with signs asking for help in Athens, Macon, and Atlanta. If you wish, this alternative is a good one rather than just handing out cash. Remember, no gift is too small to be a blessing to someone who is in need. An expression in similar wording came from Mother Teresa. What a simple way this is to reach out to the homeless and to recognize each one as a child of God in need. Be a blessing to others, and try this out. Serve God, Serve Man 9

10 Church Council The Church Council held no meeting in May. No notes received for June. Respectfully Submitted, Robin Larson Board of Christian Outreach No notes sent for June. Respectfully Submitted, Carol Riesmeyer Habitat for Humanity ReStore Two of our LOLC members, Janis & Mara Lipacis, are faithful volunteers for Putnam County Habitat for Humanity, a vital organization that does much to benefit our community. According to Janis, the Habitat Furniture ReStore affiliate is in dire need of more volunteers. Please consider that the amount of time you donate is flexible and at your convenience plus you can meet new people. In addition, the variety of things you can volunteer for is tremendous. The organization especially needs Thursday afternoon cashiers; Mentors who give support and friendship to families selected to be homeowners and keep a record of their sweat equity hours; Friday and Saturday volunteers at the store; Construction team members; Help with pickup of donations that includes driving the truck; and A secretary to the board. Just stop at the ReStore at 1027 Lake Oconee Parkway and look around. Everyone in the store is a volunteer and always happy to share information. Help us to spread the word to anyone else friend or family who might be a willing volunteer. For even more first-hand information, talk to Janis after church or contact him at Serve God, Serve Man

11 Coffee and Conversation after Church Check your calendars and sign up for a turn preparing coffee and light refreshments for Coffee Hour after service each Sunday. A sign up sheet is on the round table at the back of the church. CHOIR NOTES The choir is rehearsing for and singing at Sunday services. We are always looking for new members and welcome anyone who has a joy of singing and making music in God's name. Altar Care Copies of the LOLC Altar Care Guide are available for ALL who wish to serve. The Altar Care sign-up sheet is on the round table. Serve God, Serve Man 11

12 Stephen Ministry Small Seeds, Mighty Trees Paul wrote, I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow (I Corinthians 3:6). Is it time to add more water to the seeds of faith planted in you? Stephen Ministers train to water seeds of faith while leaving the outcome in God s capable hands. For more information about this one-to-one caring lay ministry, please contact Virginia Daley. For the HEROES program, contact any who took the HEROES training: Julie Applehoff, Rosemary Bonnough, Virginia Daley, and Bob Stallings. Virginia Daley, Stephen Leader The Martyrdom of St. Stephen by Giorgio Vasari Healing Service James 5:14 affirms, Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; The third Sunday of each month we hold a very short healing service after the regular service with Stephen Ministers assisting. Pastor Andy I love the Lord, because He hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because He hath inclined His ear unto me, therefore will I call upon Him as long as I live. Psalm 116: Serve God, Serve Man

13 Lutheran Laughter Serve God, Serve Man 13

14 Recycling Projects Remember the LOLC paper recycling program to include extra copies of the weekly bulletins and other white paper products. All collected paper goes to the recycling center. We are also collecting aluminum cans for Amber Bailey, the person who does such an outstanding job keeping our church clean. July 3, 2016 Trinity VI Calendar July 9, 2016 SS. John Fisher, B. & Thomas More, MM. Public Relations July 10, 2016 Trinity VII Janie Seglund, Editor in Chief Submissions due by the " 15 th of each month July 17, 2016 Trinity VIII Mites Sunday Healing Service July 24, 2016 Trinity IX July 25, 2016 St. James, AP.M. July 31, 2016 Trinity X Saint James the Greater by Guido Reni 14 Serve God, Serve Man