connections Celebrating Saints in November We will embrace people and walk with them in a RELATIONSHIP with Christ.

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1 connections MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF FAIRLAWN LUTHERAN CHURCH AND SCHOOL NOVEMBER 2016 Celebrating Saints in November Saints of God, a blessed November to you all! All Saints Day is celebrated in November. This is a festival on which the church remembers and honors all the Christian faithful, both known and unknown. The English word "saint" derives from the Latin sanctus, which means "holy." God declares everyone who has been baptized and believes the promise of the Gospel to be justified, holy, and blameless. The communion of saints therefore includes both those still living on earth and those who have died in the faith and are now living in heaven. Lutherans do not pray to the saints in heaven or invoke their help, however, we do honor the saints. Philip Melanchthon, Martin Luther's most important colleague in the Reformation, wrote of 3 ways that Christians should honor the saints: The first is thanksgiving. For we ought to give thanks to God because He has shown examples of mercy because He has given teachers or other gifts to the church The second service is the strengthening of our faith; when we see the denial forgiven Peter, we also are encouraged to believe the more that grace truly super-abounds over sin, (Rom 5:20). The third honor is the imitation, first, of faith, then of the other virtues (Ap., Art. XXI, par. 4-6). Dr. Melanchthon's second point is particularly important. Notice that when we honor the saints we actually give the glory to God and not to the saints themselves. All of the saints who now live in heaven were in their earthly lives exactly like us: poor, miserable sinners and completely unworthy of God's favor. It is only God's undeserved grace through Jesus Christ that makes the saints righteous and holy. All Saints' Day is a very special festival, one that enriches the worship lives of all who observe it. It is a day on which we are edified by the lives of the saints of ancient times. We recall the faithful men and women of both Testaments of the Bible and praise God for their examples. In addition to the saints of Scripture, the church's nearly 2,000-year history is full of the stories of faithful Christians, some wellknown (like Augustine or Luther), but the vast majority known only to God. We commemorate these holy ones as well. Moreover, we also remember the saints that are close to us. Our congregation will remember those members and friends who were recently called to be with the Lord. In our house, we will remember Claire s father, Fred. Most importantly, we glorify God not just for the faithfulness of the saints, but primarily for His faithfulness to the saints. All Saints' Day can be seen as the summation of the great church festivals and seasons of Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Holy Week, Easter, and Pentecost because it reminds us that it is only by the perfect life and saving death of Jesus Christ that Christians are made saints in the sight of the God. Peace in Christ, you saints of God! Pastor Jim Gau God s Mission is that we exist to glorify Him and make disciples. The VISION of FLCS on how we will live God s mission: We will embrace people and walk with them in a RELATIONSHIP with Christ. Our focus is on families with children at home and adults over age 55. Strategies: Identify Connect Bless Invite Embrace Instruct Disciple Values As believers in Christ at FLCS, these are items we value: Caring relationships Family focus Committed leadership Community outreach Christian education Worship and music

2 Fall Yard Clean-up for Seniors Saturday, Nov. 12 (Rain Date Nov. 19), 8:30am - 12:30pm We will meet at Fairlawn Lutheran and travel as a group to several homes of seniors who need some assistance with their yards or light home maintenance. Church member Nathan Knowles is previewing, coordinating, and leading the effort, and will be working to grow the senior home maintenance ministry over the coming year. Please RSVP Kim Hornyak, kim.hornyak@fairlawnlutheran.org or text/call Special Trip to View the Luther Exhibit in Minneapolis Luther House in Wittenburg, Germany, is being readied for the 500 th anniversary of the reformation in The Minneapolis Institute of Art has been able to assemble an historic collection of Martin Luther s possessions and memorabilia plus other more recently discovered artifacts from his other houses. This once-in-a-lifetime exhibit, sponsored by Thrivent, will be open from October 30, 2016 January 15, A threeday bus trip is being considered for either Thursday, January 5-Saturday, January 7 or January 12-14, because Thrivent members are free on Fridays. This event may also be offered to other Lutheran churches to fill the bus with 2 days of Christian fellowship. If you are interested, contact Kim Hornyak (kim.hornyak@fairlawnlutheran.org) with your choice of dates and planning can begin! Past Event Fun Pastor Larry Leuthaeuser Celebrating Clergy Appreciation Ohio Mart Outing Barb Beck, Judy Kotick and Cindy Kessler at the Stitchery Showcase Card Party Fun and a birthday celebration for member Dave Polcyn.

3 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Invite a Friend! NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2016 RSVP to Kim Hornyak for all events at kim.hornyak@fairlawnlutheran.org 55+ Exercise Class Tuesdays at 10:00am, Fairlawn Lutheran Fellowship Hall Join certified personal trainer Amanda Mosteller and friends for an hour of exercise which is appropriate to your fitness level. $10/class ($5/class with 10+ participants, so bring a friend!) Card & Game Party Monday, Nov. 7, 1:00pm, Fairlawn Lutheran Fellowship Hall Join in the fun playing card games, Yahtzee and other board games. If you would like to play a new, or family game please bring it along. Also, be sure to invite a friend to join us for a few hours of fun and fellowship! Senior Citizen Breakfast & Play Wednesday, Nov. 10, 9:00am, Revere High School Enjoy breakfast then Revere High School s rendition of the play Our Town by Thornton Wilder. RSVP by November 2 so reservations can be made. Leaving a Christian Legacy - Funeral Service Planning with Pastor Gau Wednesday, Nov. 16, Noon, Fairlawn Lutheran Fellowship Hall Funerals are a time to speak clearly about what you believe and confess, one last time, to your family and friends. Bring a sack lunch to enjoy as Pastor Gau walks participants through the planning of a Christian funeral service that personally reflects your faith in Christ Jesus as Lord and Savior and offers God s peace and comfort to those who mourn. Mark Your Calendar! Video Bible Study - Beginning in January Reading the Psalms for Spiritual Strength multi-week study. More details to come!

4 Family Ministry To support parents in teaching the faith to their children and modeling Christian life. To reinforce God s Good News in children and walk with them in a relationship with Christ. Family Ministry has Something for Everyone! The Family Ministry here at Fairlawn Lutheran is led by our new Associate Pastor Adam Thompson. In addition to working with the school ministry, the family ministry encompasses Sunday School, the nursery, Junior and Senior Youth, and Confirmation. In addition, Pastor Adam is creating opportunities for parents to gather together, learn about God s Word and support each other in creating Christian homes and teaching their children about Jesus. The Family Fellowship creates events designed for families with children up to grade seven, but open to all. The mission of the family fellowship group is to provide opportunities for families to gather for worship, service, and fellowship. On Sundays, the nursery is open to infants and toddlers during both services and during the 10:00am Christian Education hour. Children age 3 to grade 7 are invited to Sunday School at 10:00am. Junior Youth Group is for children in grades 5-7. This group focuses on fun events that allow the students to get to know other Christians their age so that they become a positive peer group as the enter Confirmation and Senior Youth Group. This group is also invited to attend Sunday School on Sundays at 10:00am in the lower level. Senior Youth Group is for teens in grades The youth group is led by a youth board, empowering the teens to suggest events, service opportunities and areas of learning and promote them to the church and community. This year s Youth Board members are: Charlie Vehlow, President; Jeff Gillette, Vice President; Sarah George, Treasurer; Olivia Ludwig, Secretary; Elena Robinson, Junior Officer; Mario Muratori, Parent Liaison; Adam Thompson, Pastor. On Sundays at 10:00am, Senior Youth are invited to Bible Study in the Youth Room with Pastor Adam. There will also be volunteer opportunities for the whole family. Check out the Fall Yard Clean-up for Seniors and the Operation Christmas Child initiative led by the School. For more information on the Family Ministry, contact Pastor Adam Thompson, pastor.adam@fairlawnlutheran.org, (call or text). And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 calendar Youth Board Meeting Tuesday, Nov. 1, 5:30pm, Youth Room Confirmation Class Sunday, Nov. 6, 6:30-8:00pm, Youth Room Senior Youth Game/Movie Night Saturday, Nov. 12, 7:00-10:00pm, Youth Room It will kick off with a short devotion and then its whatever we want to do. There will be Board Games, movies, video games, and other things available for use during this time. So come and hang out and get to know your fellow youth group members. Friends welcome! Confirmation Class Sunday, Nov. 13, 6:30-8pm, Youth Room Family Ministry Parent Night Sunday, Nov. 13, 6:30-8:00pm, Fellowship Hall NEW! Comedy Show Outing for Junior Youth, Grades 5-7 Sunday, Nov. 20, First Christian Church, Canton All kids grades 5-7 are invited to the Tim Hawkins Live Comedy Show! Tim Hawkins is a Christian comedian, singer, and songwriter. Arrive at church at 4:30pm, we ll carpool to the show which begins at 6:00pm, and return to church around 8:45pm. Open to friends and family tickets are $25 each, $23 if we buy 10 or more. To ensure we can get tickets, please RSVP TODAY! Pastor Adam (pastor.adam@fairlawnlutheran.org)

5 Opportunities for Families to Serve Together! Families can help teach children about giving through Sunday School. The Fairlawn Lutheran Sunday School offering will go toward purchasing The Drinkable Book through Water Is Life. Each book can provide a user with safe drinking water for up to four years! Learn more about this amazing technology at waterislife.com. We are proud that our Sunday School program has already collected nearly $150 in fewer than two months - enough to purchase six Drinkable Books for people in other countries who have no source of clean water. Operation Christmas Child provides shoeboxes filled with gifts to children worldwide. But this gift is about much more than filling a shoe box it is about spreading the Good News of God s greatest gift, Jesus Christ. A needy child overseas will receive your shoebox of gifts that will be supplemented with Christian literature in his or her own language. What a wonderful way to reach children! Our congregation and school are invited to participate in this mission project - on November 6, brochures and information will be available next to the Welcome Center in the Narthex. You can also logon to samaritanspurse.org/occ for more information. Please bring your filled shoebox or clear shoe-size bin to the School by Sunday, November 20. Contact: Karla McDivitt or karla.mcdivitt@fairlawnlutheran.org The Fall Yard Clean-up for Seniors is designed to help some of our seasoned members who need assistance with yard work or light home maintenance. We will meet at Fairlawn Lutheran on Saturday, Nov. 12, 8:30am - 12:30pm and travel as a group. Many hands make light work! Rain date 11/19. RSVP Kim Hornyak kim.hornyak@fairlawnlutheran.org or text/call or sign up in the Narthex. Give thanks by serving Thanksgiving Meal at OPEN M on Wednesday, November 23, 5:00-7:00pm. Volunteers are needed to help serve and to visit with families for the sit down dinner. Last year there were over 400 served with 54 volunteers. Youth groups and families as well as individual volunteers would be appreciated. To volunteer for this or other events, contact Patty at OPEN M, ext. 402, Freezer Meal Exchange Sunday, November 19, 4:00-6:00pm Fellowship Hall The holidays are coming wouldn t it be nice to pull a pre-prepared dinner out of the freezer on those extra busy days? The Family Fellowship group will host a freezer meal exchange each participant brings the groceries for one freezer meal, we ll prep all of the meals together, then each person will take home a variety of freezer meals. Bring a friend! For instructions and recipes and to RSVP: Jess Duehning , jessduehning@gmail.com.

6 Family Fun Nights a Success! Fairlawn Lutheran School is sponsoring monthly free family fun nights as an outreach to the community. The series began in September with a literacy night. The pictures above are from October s math-focused event. There were 49 in attendance double the September event. The events are open to the community as well as school and church families. Children ages 2-6 enjoyed learning about math through games, puzzles and activities. Parents were given ideas on how to build math skills at home and foster a love of math in their children. Pastor Adam provided a devotion for the group, then he and Pastor Gau had fun playing games with the kids! We d love to have more church members help us in November for our Advent Make-it, Take-it Family Fun Night on November 21 at 6:30 pm. Contact Karla McDivitt to volunteer (Karla.mcdivitt@fairlawnlutheran.org)!

7 Fairlawn Lutheran School Fairlawn Lutheran Church and School, Four years ago we asked Paul Brandt, a church consultant, to issue a report about the possibility of growing our school. The conclusion of that report was, yes, it is feasible to grow in this ministry once a few internal housekeeping items were taken care of. Those items have been completed earlier this year, Council asked for a proposal to grow Fairlawn Lutheran School. That proposal is complete and is ready to present to the congregation. I would like to invite you to one of two Town Hall meetings: Saturday, November 5, at 10:00am, or Sunday, November 6, at 12:30 pm (both meetings will be held in the Chapel). The proposal to grow our school will be presented in detail with time for answers to your questions about what it means to move this vital ministry area forward. Then, at our annual meeting on Sunday, December 4, we will all decide if this is the direction in which God is leading us. I ask that you keep this proposal and decision in your prayers. Our school has long been a blessing for this community. Now we are asking God to show us if we should grow our Christian education program. Peace in Christ, Pastor Gau Free Family Fun Night: Advent Make-it, Take-it Monday, November 21, 6:30-8:00pm Fairlawn Lutheran Church & School 3415 W. Market Street (next to Summit Mall Macy s) Join us for advent-themed stories, crafts, faith connection and snacks geared toward families with children ages 2-6. RSVP Karla McDivitt, karla.mcdivitt@fairlawnlutheran.org,

8 Spotlight on the Worship Team Each of Fairlawn Lutheran s Sunday worship services has a different sound. The 8:45am service features traditional music with the organ and choir leading song. If you have attended the 11:15am service at Fairlawn Lutheran, you will have experienced worship with our Worship Team, a group of members who lead the music at that service. The Worship Team brings a contemporary influence to the music with piano/synthesizer, guitar, drums and voices. So why have two styles of music at Fairlawn Lutheran? It is unusual to have both at an LCMS church typically you ll see one or the other. Worship Team leader Al Hedervary says, by having traditional style worship and (organ/choir) music at the early service, I believe it provides an anchor to the roots of our church, providing a welcoming and comfortable environment for those who Lee Gillette currently focuses on drums and vocals. Alex Morrison, Alyssa Lance, Julia Fluharty and Al Hedervary lead worship. have grown up on this style. That being said, moving forward and embracing an obvious interest in contemporary Christian music offers the diversity in worship styles needed to make our church viable and available to those who desire this kind of worship service. It is important to note that while the music styles are different, the content of the services remains the same. Claire Gau, keyboardist and singer says, Both traditional and more current church music provide a spiritual experience and an opportunity to offer our praises to God. It leads us in realizing the hope we have in our Father and what joy we are yet to experience. All of this fills me and encourages me I go about our lives in His service. Both Claire and Al have found joy in connecting with the congregation through music. Al says, My favorite thing about contemporary praise music is that like other genres, it crosses age groups and backgrounds providing a common base for everyone to worship at our service. Old and young can sit side by side and enjoy and be uplifted during our service. It can be awesome at times. Claire Gau agrees, It's a joy to be a part of the Worship Team, leading the family of Fairlawn Lutheran in song. It is great to participate with them as they enjoy their time with Jesus and fellow believers. I love watching the faces of the worshipers, connecting in this spiritual experience, in the presence of the Lord! Claire has had a more traditional music background she has sung in a variety of choirs, and directed musicals and choirs, performed in small groups, lead worship, and taught piano and voice in addition to playing the guitar and piano. It has always been my joy and passion wherever I have been, she says. Al s experience is different, My background in music is as deep as any 15 yr. old who would have wanted to be in a rock band at my age. Since then I have gone from a vocalist to also playing guitar and currently taking keyboard theory. But not all of the other members of the praise team have music experience, The rest of us I believe have heard the call to serve and have provided a humble and yet uplifting sound that makes us what we are now, says Al. The worship team has a variety of musical backgrounds. It is a beauty to work with people who love to worship Jesus. The great part is that they desire to use their talents to serve the church and to bring glory to their Lord, Claire says. A variety of members volunteer their time to sing with the Worship Team, and on months that have a fifth Sunday, the youth are invited to sing with the group! Joanne Gillette, Karla McDivitt, Alex Morrison and Alyssa Lance are regular vocalists with the Worship Team. So what songs inspire those who lead our worship in song? Al favors Word of God Speak and Lead Me because, both of these songs speak to each of us on a one-to-one level with God as an individual looking for guidance. Claire says, I have many songs that speak to me at different times. The most recent is the song Who Can Compare, It speaks of how Jesus moves in our lives. I take comfort in this and hold on to this hope! Music adds to worship what it does in all aspects to the human soul, says Al. It provides a place of refuge, of comfort, of inspiration and community when combined with a meaningful message of the service. By offering music to enhance and contribute to the day's message, I believe we can make a difference in the way a person feels about their experience that day in church as they depart and go forward in God's love. Claire Gau sings and plays keyboard.

9 Worship Worship is a time of renewal and praise have you invited someone to join you at worship lately? Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45am Traditional Service 10:00am Christian Education Hour 11:15am Contemporary Service Stewardship Notes O give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His love endures forever (Psalm 136:1). The love of the Lord does endure forever because the Son of God, our Lord Jesus Christ, is risen from the dead, lives and reigns for all eternity. He was crucified for our transgressions, but He is raised and lives forever for our justification. We are acceptable to God in Christ Jesus. This is indeed something for which we give thanks. We give thanks in our prayers. We give thanks in the hymns we sing in church. We give thanks by talking about it with our friends and neighbors and teaching it to our children and grandchildren. And we give thanks by giving to the church a generous, first-fruits portion of the income He provides us. Giving is giving thanks. It is one of the concrete ways in which we thank God for all He has done for us. This includes not just what He has done for us here in time, but what He does for us for all eternity. He provides for all that we need in both body and soul. He is more ready to give than we are able either to receive or even ask. That is who He is. That is His character. He is good and His love endures forever. Let us then give thanks in all these ways, not in one way or the other. But rather in all things, everything that we do and say, whether it be in word or deed, in prayer and praise, in teaching and giving, let us give thanks to God for He is good. Acolyte Schedule 11/6 Candle Damon Furukawa Cross - Molly Gilreath 11/13 Candle Alex Robinson Cross Luke Kohlmeier 11/20 Candle Luke Furukawa Cross Elena Robinson 11/27 Candle Molly Gilreath Cross Emma Gibson Fairlawn Lutheran Church Holiday Schedule 2016 Thanksgiving Eve Service in the Chapel Wednesday, November 23, 6:30pm Advent Service & Supper Wednesday, November 30 Dinner 5:30pm and Service 6:30pm Advent Service & Supper Wednesday, December 7 Dinner 5:30pm and Service 6:30pm Advent Service & Supper Wednesday, December 14 Dinner 5:30pm and Service 6:30pm Service and Sunday School Presentation Sunday, December 18, 10:00am (single service) Advent Service & Supper Wednesday, December 21 Dinner 5:30pm and Service 6:30pm Christmas Eve Service Saturday, December 24 5:00pm contemporary, 7:00pm traditional Christmas Day Service Sunday, December 25, 10:00am (single service) New Year s Eve Service in the Chapel Saturday, December 31, 6:30pm New Year s Day Service Sunday, January 1, 2017, 10:00am (single service)

10 Bless Others We will seek to bless those inside and outside the church with the physical, emotional and spiritual resources God has given Fairlawn Lutheran Church. There are so many ways to serve both at church and in our community. So use your time, treasures and talents to be a blessing to someone else. SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGERS NEEDED IN NOVEMBER We ll be ringing those bells for the Salvation Army again this year, on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 26, at Montrose Acme #15 (inside) from 9am-9pm, in onehour slots (or more if you wish). The signup sheet is on the Mission Tower, so you can pick your favorite time. Thank you! Human Care Team Contact: Marie Tuccillo, jmtucc.2@aol.com. HURRICANE RELIEF THROUGH THRIVENT Hurricane Matthew, the strongest Caribbean storm in nearly a decade, has left a trail of destruction in the Caribbean and United States. Hurricane Matthew destroyed tens of thousands of homes, and left more than 60,000 people staying in temporary shelters. When tragic events like this occur, Thrivent Financial members and others want to know how they can help. As a membership organization of Christians committed to guiding members to be wise with money and live generously, Thrivent is supporting your generosity in the following ways: $250,000 match on personal donations Through December 15, 2016, Thrivent will match up to $250,000 in personal donations made on Thrivent.com to certain disaster relief organizations responding in Haiti and other areas affected by Hurricane Matthew. The dollar-fordollar match is open to members and others who want to give, and will lead to a total combined impact of up to $500,000. To participate, go to the Thrivent website, search for disaster response, click on Hurricane Matthew and personal donations. You then can select from any of four approved organizations. Direct Choice Dollars Thrivent Choice allows eligible members to weigh in on where Thrivent distributes some of its charitable outreach funding. If you have Choice Dollars available to direct, visit Thrivent.com and select any nonprofit in the catalog of eligible organizations, including those who are helping in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. For questions or assistance regarding Thrivent, contact Jim Kroeger, at civicadvantage@gmail.com or ALWAYS AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES Donate glasses to LWML via the box in the Fellowship Hall. Donate pop can tabs to Children s Hospital via the container near the mailboxes. Collect Box Tops, Acme Receipts, and Campbell s Soup Labels for Fairlawn Lutheran s school place in the box in the Fellowship Hall. Recycle your paper in the dumpster in the parking lot to benefit Fairlawn Lutheran s School. OTHER WAYS TO VOLUNTEER Braille Ministry Producing the Bible in Braille. Tom & Barb Cadotte , tomcadotte@hotmail.com Brown Baggers Packing lunches for the homeless. Ann Congeni acongeni@aol.com Human Care Ministry Partnering with local missions to help others in our community. Jacquie Kyle jmkyle@msn.com Meals Ministry Provides meals to church members for bereavement, illness, new baby. Lindsey Yoder tlm456@aol.com Prayer Shawl Ministry Making blankets for the ill or grieving. Donna Hessel eyeletstitch@yahoo.com Visitation Ministry Visiting homebound church members. Mary Yoder myoder@cutlerhomes.com

11 Giving Through Local Missions Akron Pregnancy Services (APS) Human Care Team Contact: Jacquie Kyle Our FLCS Annual Christmas Giving Tree will be up in the Narthex on Sunday, November 27, to Wednesday, December 14. You will have 100 opportunities (angel gift tags with items needed on them) to join in this Christmas Outreach to those APS serves. Ms. Karla and our Fairlawn Lutheran School are again donating a Diaper and Formula Tree for APS, on the same dates. Haven of Rest/Harvest Home Human Care Team Contact: Gina Hedervary genius080291@yahoo.com The Donation Drive-thru is located at the rear of the Client Services Center Building across the street from the Mission, at 207 E. Market St. Drive-thru hours are 8:00am- 6:00pm M-F and 9:00am-5:00pm on Sat. FOOD COLLECTION: In November we will be collecting nonperishable food for Haven of Rest/Harvest Home. Please place in food box in Narthex. REGULAR COFFEE IS ESPECIALLY NEEDED. All non-perishables are needed and welcome. Donations for bags given to homeless and needy at Christmas (items due 12/9) For Adults: shampoo, conditioner, large bars of soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand/body lotion, hair brushes, disposable razors, chapstick, Kleenex For Children baby wash, wash cloths, baby lotion, anti-rash cream, nail clippers, bibs, bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers, teethers, rattlers Thank you for donating gift cards, toys and games for the Happy Birthday Jesus Party! There are still more ways to help with this party and program: 11/27 Wrap at Haven of Rest 12/3 Happy Birthday Jesus Party Decorate/Set-up from 9:00-12:00, assist at the party starting at 1:30pm. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Beverly Baddley at Haven of Rest 330/ ext.137. St. Luke Lutheran Community (Portage Lakes) Human Care Team Contact: Marie Tuccillo jmtucc.2@aol.com The 12 th Annual Resident Christmas Party is on Thursday, December 8, 6:30pm- 9pm. Volunteers needed to help prepare gift bags on TUESDAY, Dec. 6, (new day), from 1-3pm in FLC Fellowship Hall. Sign up on the Mission Tower to Help plan, attend, bake cookies, or prepare gift bags. OPEN M Human Care Team Contact: Jill Croft ljchipps@gmail.com THANKSGIVING EVE MEAL AT OPEN M - Wednesday, November 23, 5:00-7:00pm. Volunteers are needed to help serve and to visit with families for the sit down dinner pies are also needed. Last year there were over 400 served with 54 volunteers. Youth groups and families as well as individual volunteers would be appreciated. Sign up on the Mission Tower. Once again we will participate in THE LOVE OF CHILDREN - Our congregation is again sending a budgeted $350 to sponsor two gifts each for seven children. From November 1-28, we are also collecting 200 boxes of hot chocolate packets for their family food boxes. Donations can be placed in the large box in the Narthex. If you personally would like to sponsor a child, go to openm.org or contact Patty, ext. 402,

12 Learn Growth in knowledge of the faith is an integral part of growing as a disciple of Christ. Check out classes available to you and bring a friend! Those who may not be comfortable at church yet may enjoy a small group setting. SUNDAY CHRISTIAN EDUCATION HOUR (10:00am) Pastor s Bible Study, Fellowship Hall Open to all - led by Pastor Gau. Beginning October 30, Pastor Gau will offer a new class, We The People. This 3-week, video and discussion-based mini-series will focus on what Scripture teaches about politics and the government. Following this course, he will begin teaching the Gospel of John in mid-november. Chapel Bible Study, Chapel Open to all led by Blaise Congeni. Blaise Congeni s Bible class will now turn to Encounters With Jesus From The Gospels. The goal is to discover new insights from familiar stories of Jesus interacting with a variety of individuals. The class meets in the Chapel at 10:00am on Sundays. All are welcome to both Bible Studies! Sunday School, Downstairs Preschool Area For children age 3 through grade 7 Children will be led in worship, prayer, games, Bible stories, crafts and more as they learn about Jesus. The students have been studying judges and kings in the books of history in the Bible. Our first quarter of Sunday School will conclude in November with three lessons focusing on David. Please note that there will be no Sunday School Thanksgiving Weekend, November 27. Youth Bible Study, Youth Room For youth in grades 8-12 Pastor Adam will lead topical Bible study for eighth graders and high schoolers. Currently doing a study of different Christian denominations and what it means to be a Lutheran. LEARNING ABOUT THE WORSHIP SERVICE Serving in worship is a great learning experience for children and teens in our congregation, and provides a way for them to serve. Pastor Adam, the Elders and Paul Hinderegger have set up new training sessions for all acolytes, and the acolytes will have new responsibilities during worship. Acolytes will now sit next to the pastor/elder during service instead of in the pews. This will allow the adults to serve as role models for worship behavior and make the service more interesting to the children serving since they get to be up close and personal to what s happening. Children and teens will now carry the cross which was a job that elders had done in the past. Every opportunity is being given to have the acolytes involved in all parts of the service including offering, communion and procession/recession. Thanks to Paul Hinderegger for coordinating the acolytes and their training and Pastor Adam, Mary Dee Raabe, Karen Feth, and Rod Parks for their training and guidance. These kids are excited to serve! All children ages are welcome to serve as acolyte. Contact: Paul Hinderegger phinderegger@gmail.com

13 SMALL GROUPS AND BIBLE STUDIES Men s Promise Keepers Bible Study Wednesdays, 6:00AM, Cracker Barrel in Montrose This diverse group of men enjoys fellowship, friendship and the study of a variety of topics. Contact: Ron Gsellman , ron@gsellman.com Moms of Faith Tuesdays, 10:00AM, Fairlawn Lutheran Church Library Moms of all ages discuss a variety of topics. BABYSITTING PROVIDED! Contact: Arin Sloan , asloan4113@gmail.com The group will start this Fall studying Hosea by Jennifer Rothschild. Saturday AM Bible Study Saturdays, 8:00am, Fairlawn Lutheran Church Library Discussions include in-depth Bible study as well as interesting modern day topics. Contact: Ron Gsellman , ron@gsellman.com Currently, they are continuing a chronological Gospel study of Christ's life and ministry. Study materials are provided newcomers should bring a study bible. Women of Faith Mondays, 6:00pm, Fairlawn Lutheran Church Bible study and topical study Contact: Lisa Sears , dl_sears@yahoo.com Doing a seven-week video-driven study called The Armor of God. Empty Nesters Bible Study First and Third Fridays, 7:00pm, September-June, members homes This group of mature couples combine topical studies and social activities. Contact: Jan Seymour , jseymour@neo.rr.com Faith Builders Bible Study Second and Fourth Mondays, 7:00pm, members homes Mature group of singles and couples interested in growing their faith through Bible study on contemporary topics. Contact: Rod Parks (330) , rparks1221@yahoo.com, Bob Fischer (330) , rfischer80@neo.rr.com They are currently studying 1 Corinthians.

14 By the Numbers Fairlawn Lutheran Church Financial Activity Report $510,000 $505,000 $500,000 YTD OPERATIONS BUDGET 9/30/16 SEPTEMBER 2016 Income $52,090 Cash Expenses $61,528 Net Cash Income ($ 9,437) YEAR-TO-DATE Income $502,032 Cash Expenses $508,792 Net Cash Income ($ 6,760) $495,000 Income Expense Attendance Attendance Year-to-Date /17 1/24 1/31 2/7 2/14 2/21 2/28 3/6 3/13 3/20 3/27 4/3 4/10 4/17 4/24 5/1 5/8 5/15 5/22 5/29 6/5 6/12 6/19 6/26 7/3 7/10 7/17 7/24 7/31 8/7 8/14 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25 10/2 10/9 10/16 8:45am 11:15am 2/14 Preschool sang at 11:15am service 3/13 99 th birthday party 3/20 Palm Sunday 3/27 Easter Sunday 5/22 Confirmation at 11:15am service 7/10 Pastor Larry 50th ordination Anniversary (8:45) + Youth Commissioning (no attendance for Pastor Adam s Installation at 3:00pm) 7/31 Vacation Bible School closing 8/07 Single Outdoor service & picnic (10am) 236 attending

15 Behind the Scenes: The Audio Visual Team There are dozens of volunteers who work behind the scenes every Sunday to ensure our worship services run smoothly. Today we ll take a look at those who use technology to enhance our worship experience. The Audio Visual Team provides sound and visual tools for each service on Sunday. We complement the pastor s service and provide for a meaningful worship service experience for each person, says team leader Lisa Sears. Each Sunday, 3-4 people are needed to run specific equipment in the worship space. From the microphones that help you hear the service, to the words displayed on the screens, to the videotaping of the services, it takes a coordinated effort by the allvolunteer group each week. Bob Kronenberger, David Sears, Lee Gillette and Kit Nelson serve during worship. Have you ever stopped to watch the announcements that are played before service on the screens in the sanctuary and Narthex? Bob Stroupe prepares the PowerPoint slides you see each week. It takes the whole team to run audio/visual for a service, and although they typically focus on one role, each member can cover other areas as needed. Kit Nelson, David Sears, and Dave Polcyn run the sound board during the service. This includes the microphones stationed around the sanctuary as well as the personal mics the pastors use. They also queue up pre-taped videos. It s primarily Bob Kronenberger who runs the video camera he records the first service each Sunday and projects the service live onto the large screen (for instance during the children s sermon). Copies of the early service are available on DVD to the homebound and others who cannot be at worship. David Sears also runs the camera for special events like weddings. Lee Gillette assists with audio visual during worship but also troubleshoots problems with the wiring and cable connections. Lisa says, Lee is the all-around utility support! Lisa s main responsibility is to design the layout of the words projected on the screens, manage the audio and video at each service, and supervise and coordinate the manning of each position during each service. Team leader Lisa Sears mans the sound at our outdoor service this past summer. We use sound equipment for a wide variety of services and events. None of the members of the Audio Visual Team have professional A/V experience. What is important about working on this team is the willingness to be observant, flexible, and quick to make changes with little notice, according to Lisa. Often unseen, the members are part of the A/V Team in order to, enhance the worship experience for attendees. Did you know that the team has earbud hearing aids available to loan to those in attendance who have a hearing impediment? Lisa says that, In the future, we d like to use A/V technology to project messages or added information by a speaker on the large screens. Utilizing the projection of words, shapes, and images can add to a service and may make it more memorable and meaningful. Technology can also help reduce the amount of print pieces needed each Sunday by projecting information on screens. Audio and visual assets can be used by a much larger audience online. We currently record the audio of Pastor Gau s Sunday Bible Study and make it available online. As technology becomes increasingly present in everyday life, we will likely be adding more audio/visual products in the future. Lee Gillette and Dave Polcyn make adjustments. One can imagine that volunteering in this way can detract in some ways from the worship experience, While having A/V duties requires focused attention on the service, sometimes we have to spend extra time working on technical sequences and procedures that takes away from listening to the message. So why serve in this way? Lisa says, I like working to bring God s Word to the congregants through sound by spoken word or music - so that attendees can benefit from God s message. Slides that are projected onto the sanctuary screens are prepared at the end of each week.

16 The City Launch Day is November 6! You ve heard that The City is coming now it s here! Everyone will receive an invitation to join The City on November 6 look for information during and after services that day. The City is a private online community just for Fairlawn Lutheran Church! It s purpose it to help build relationships by offering easy ways to connect with each other during the week or when we re away from home. You ll be able to log on to fairlawnlutheran.onthecity.org anywhere there is internet access and see what is happening at church, submit prayer requests, join groups, find friends and much more! Log onto The City via your desktop or laptop computer, tablet or smart phone. There will be several learning opportunities in November to help you get started. On launch day, there will be volunteers stationed at launch pads to help get you started on The City. The Help Desk at the Welcome Center will be available on Sundays. There will also be four learning sessions you can attend in the Fairlawn Lutheran Fellowship Hall: November 9 11:30am or 6:30pm November 16 11:30am or 6:30pm You have probably by now noticed the large tree outside the Fellowship Hall. Each leaf bears the name of someone already on The City. Check and see how many people you know! On November 6, you will receive an invitation to The City with a leaf inside. If you join The City, put your name on the leaf and return it to the office so we can place it on the tree. Everyone who joins the City will be entered into a raffle for a $50 Visa gift card!

17 Birthdays & Anniversaries 1 Larry Zeigler 1 Ken Braman 1 Tom Hessel 2 Jim Kroeger 4 Cecil Miller 5 Ken Peace 6 Gus Saiben 6 Woody Woodward 7 Jim Lewis 9 Ed Paul 10 Ilona Stroupe 10 Carlton Miller 10 Luke Juengel 10 Hampton Yoder 11 Paige Rusyniak 12 Irene Leidal 12 Vince LaPorte 13 Vivian Eckert 13 Barb Beck 15 Jeremy Schultz 15 Charlie Vehlow 15 Ryan Stouffer 16 Marilyn Doty 18 Bob Kronenberger 18 Nathan Schultz 19 Don Seagren 20 Lauren Knowles 21 Walter Kiekhaefer 22 Mary Yoder 24 Robert Jenkins 25 Jessica Duehning 27 Lisa Tobin 29 Juliette Keller 3 Wayne & Robin Porter 9 Brian & Andrea Downey 13 Paul & Linda Liesem 14 Skip & Diane Bray 22 Paul & Lynn Flanick 23 David & Lisa Sears 27 George & Alice Strickler Congratulations to George and Alice Strickler and Paul and Linda Liesem both couples are celebrating 45 years of marriage this year! Special birthday wishes to Cecil and Betty Miller who are both celebrating their 88 th birthdays! PARISH ARTS SERIES For nearly two decades, the Parish Arts Ministry of Fairlawn Lutheran Church has brought free quality concerts to the Akron area, making it possible for anyone to attend. These free concerts are made possible by sponsorships and free will offerings. Contact: Gary Pinter gjp997@roadrunner.com. Deans of the American Guild of Organists - Organ Favorites Sunday, November 13, 2016, 4pm, Fairlawn Lutheran Church Mary Ragna Yetter, James Storry, Lynn Frey-Steward, Gary J. Pinter Each recitalist will play three favorite compositions. All have served the Akron chapter of the American Guild of Organists as Dean. Mary Ragna is now organist at Kent United Methodist Church; James is Director of Music at the United Methodist Church of Macedonia; Lynn serves as Director of Music at St. Sebastian Parish in Akron; Gary is Organist-Choir Director at Fairlawn Lutheran. FEATURES OUR OWN GARY PINTER! Master Singers Chorale - Christmas Concert Sunday, December 11, 2016, 4pm, Fairlawn Lutheran Church Directed by Dr. J. D. Goddard This all volunteer, community-based chorale performs annually at Christmas time, presenting new compositions by current composers as well as familiar Christmas selections. They are accompanied by a small ensemble of instruments and occasionally use the organ. Their programs are always inspiring and conclude with a Christmas carol sing-along which is enjoyed by all.

18 Celebrating Reformation Day October 31 We recently celebrated Reformation Day. Martin Luther s nailing of his ninety-five theses to the church door on October 31, 1517, provoked a debate that inspired the reformation of the Christian Church in the 16th century. The teaching of Luther and the reformers can be summarized in four phrases: Grace alone, Faith alone, Scripture alone, Christ alone. On October 31, 2017, the world will remember the 500th anniversary of what is often recognized as the beginning of the Protestant Reformation: Martin Luther s posting of the 95 Theses against Indulgences in Wittenberg. For various reasons this moment catapulted Luther into the public eye and he became the lightning rod for the reform of the church. As with many big anniversaries questions of relevance will once again arise: Why does the Reformation matter? What was at stake? What was it all about? Was it worth it? Does anything that Luther said or taught have meaning for us today? How should Lutherans and the heirs of the Protestant Reformation view Luther? As we close in on the 500th Reformation Day such questions will even begin to interest those who have no religious commitment to what took place then. The Lutheran Reformation is still all about Jesus; that is, faithfully preaching and teaching the good news of Jesus Christ and standing for the teachings of God s Word as they have been confessed in all times and all places wherever the Gospel is purely taught according to a pure understanding of it and where the Sacraments are administered according to Christ s institution. With Martin Luther, we still say, Here we stand, we cannot do otherwise. God help us. Amen. The Lutheran Reformation then, and today, is not about throwing away the past, but about retaining and preserving the very best of the Church s rich history and teachings, while filtering out whatever covers and contradicts God s Word and denies the good news of salvation by grace alone, though faith alone, on account of Christ alone. Learn more about the Reformation at lutheranreformation.org. The site includes Reformation history, theology, events and resources. Special Trip to View the Luther Exhibit in Minneapolis The Minneapolis Institute of Art has been able to assemble an historic collection of Martin Luther s possessions and memorabilia plus other more recently discovered artifacts from his other houses. This once-in-a-lifetime exhibit, sponsored by Thrivent, will be open from October 30, 2016 January 15, A three-day bus trip is being considered for either Thursday, January 5-Saturday, January 7, or January 12-14, because Thrivent members are free on Fridays. This event may also be offered to other Lutheran churches to fill the bus with 2 days of Christian fellowship. If you are interested, contact Kim Hornyak (kim.hornyak@fairlawnlutheran.org) with your choice of dates and planning can begin! Thank You No Sale Fundraiser Sponsors and Volunteers! The No Sale Fundraiser for Fairlawn Lutheran School was a success! Thanks to all who were involved in raising and donating funds. The children loved their new shirts which they wore for their Fall Field Day and features a bible verse and a list of company and individual sponsors. Thanks also to those who helped with games and fun on Field Day!

19 Contact Featured in the English District Servant to Servant Newsletter Senior Pastor Jim Gau Associate Pastor Director of Youth & Family Ministries Adam Thompson Visitation Pastor Ryan Beffrey Pastors Emeritus Larry Leuthaeuser Charles Lentner Director of School Ministries Karla McDivitt Director of Adult Ministries Kim Hornyak Organist & Choir Director Gary J. Pinter Worship Team Leader Al Hedervary Office Administrator Allyson Robinson Our pastors were featured in our district s e-newsletter. Visiting LCMS Pastor Called to Ferguson Pastor Micah Glenn (back left) and his wife Dorothy (seated) visited Fairlawn Lutheran for services. He was a classmate of Pastor Adam at seminary. He has been called to start a ministry called The Lutheran Hope Center to address education and poverty in his hometown of Ferguson, Missouri. Learn more at or on Facebook: The Lutheran Hope Center Ferguson. connections Information due November 18 Information for the December issue of our church newsletter is due on October 18. Please to: churchoffice@fairlawnlutheran.org. Church Office Hours 8:30am-3:00pm M-F Find hundreds more photos of Fairlawn Lutheran events on our Facebook page Fairlawn Lutheran Church and School. The school now has its own Facebook page Fairlawn Lutheran School.

20 Fairlawn Lutheran will embrace people and walk with them in a RELATIONSHIP with Christ. Fairlawn Lutheran Church & School 3415 West Market Street Fairlawn, Ohio CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:45am Traditional Worship 10:00am Christian Education Hour and Sunday School 11:15am Contemporary Worship Communion offered weekly at all services EVENTS OPEN TO ALL IN NOVEMBER: We the People 3-week Bible study on politics and faith on Sundays at 10:00am. November 12 Fall Yard Clean Up for Seniors November 21 Free Family Fun Night: Advent for families with children ages 2-6 November 19 Family Fellowship Freezer Meal Exchange November 23 Thanksgiving Eve Service, 6:30pm November 30 Advent Supper at 5:30pm, Service at 6:30pm CONTACT Office: 8:30am-3:00pm M-F Phone: School: Web: churchoffice@fairlawnlutheran.org