S T. J O H N S E V A N G E L I C A L L U T H E R A N C H U R C H

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1 Pastor s Volume 2015, Issue 7 July The Light S T. J O H N S E V A N G E L I C A L L U T H E R A N C H U R C H S P E C I A L P O I N T S O F I N T E R E S T : Everest Vacation Bible School starts July 27th-31st. The VBS registration form can be found on pages 17 and 18. Making Sense of the Christian Faith an Adult VBS program will be held on August 3rd-7th from 10 AM- 1 PM. See page 5 for more information. Life Line Screening event to be held at St. John s on August 18th. See page 2 for more information. I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E : Pastor s Corner 1 Financial Snapshot-l 3 Mission & Outreach and Evangelism Notes Sunday School Snapshot 6 Message from Your Congregational President NE Pennsylvania SYNOD, ELCA News July Volunteer Schedule 16 Corner... Dear SJLC, A friend wrote me this excellent question, and after giving it careful thought, it seemed like something that might be interesting enough to share in this month s newsletter. My friend s question was, Pastor, I've participated in Bible studies that resemble worship services. I've also been to worship services that seem more like Bible studies. Can you tell me the difference, for we Lutherans, between a Bible study and a worship service? Here's my response: For questions like this our Lutheran faith has a strong foundation in the Augsburg Confession. Concerning the Church: "It is the assembly of all believers among whom the gospel is purely preached and the holy sacraments are administered according to the gospel." The role and purpose of the church is to communicate the gospel, the means of God's grace in and for the World. While Christ declares in Matthew 18 that he is present wherever two or three are gathered in his name, the assembly of believers for worship remains the church's primary instrument for this purpose. Our confessions are clear that to carry out this purpose there need not be uniformity in method or practice across the church. The only necessities are that the gospel is purely preached (put simply, this means that both the law and the gospel are exposed from the Scriptures to bring about faith), and that the sacraments (Baptism and Holy Communion) are administered. There are no other requirements for the worship service to be considered "Lutheran". All other elements are left to the discretion of the local congregation to form its own identity and edify its practice. Most of the Bible studies I have participated in and even some in which I have led are not places where the Scriptures are preached. Preaching is very different from studying. So, the first question to ask is whether or not there is a person designated to preach on the Scripture, not just lead a study of it. Still, there are some Bible studies where a leader may in fact be preaching on the text of that day. The second question to ask is whether or not the sacraments are administered. I ve never been to a Bible study that included a Baptism or Holy Communion. Baptisms come up in worship as the need arises, but Holy Communion is part of the pastoral function of the weekly Worship service. This is not justification for weekly Holy Communion, though I believe it behooves us to do so. Since it is the real presence of Christ for the forgiveness of sin, can any of us truly say to God, No thank you, I m in no need of your gift of grace this week? I surely cannot. The confessions, however, leave the door open for the frequency of the Lord's Supper to be determined by the local congregation. It is not a requirement for the uniformity of Lutheran worship.

Even if we do not offer the sacraments at every worship service we still respect the fact that it is within our designated worship service where a person might expect to find the sacraments.

2 This leads me to the next portion of the answer. Are the people who gather, coming with an expectation of receiving the sacraments? As we've already determined, for we Lutherans a worship service requires both Word AND sacrament. Even if we do not offer the sacraments at every worship service we still respect the fact that it is within our designated worship service where a person might expect to find the sacraments. So, to answer your question, my friend, even though a Bible study resembles a worship service, or a worship service resembles a Bible study they are not the same. This is because (1) preaching is not the same as studying, and (2) there are no sacraments in a Bible study. A very helpful resource on this topic is the ELCA's document called "The Use of The Means of Grace". You can download it here: Resource Repository/ The_Use_Of_The_Means_Of_Grace.pdf Have a Great July, Contacts for Pastor Rich Mobile or Text Message: pastor@saintjohnss.com Find me on Facebook: Rich Moore Find me on St. John's Lutheran Church is pleased to offer a preventive health event. Life Line Screening, a leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will host their affordable, non-invasive and painless health screenings on 8/18/2015. Five screenings will be offered that scan for potential health problems related to: blocked arteries which is a leading cause of stroke; abdominal aortic aneurysms which can lead to a ruptured aorta; hardening of the arteries in the legs which is a strong predictor of heart disease; atrial fibrillation or irregular heart beat which is closely tied to stroke risk; and a bone density screening, for men and women, used to assess the risk of osteoporosis. Register for a Wellness Package which includes 4 vascular tests and osteoporosis screening from $149 ($139 with our member discount). All five screenings take minutes to complete. In order to register for this event and to receive a $10 discount off any package priced above $129, please call or visit 2

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Bingo Ministry... St. John s supports a ministry reaching out to the residents of both Manor Care in Sinking Spring and Wernersville State Hospital.

The volunteers have an opportunity share the word from the outside and in many cases the only outside contact. We are always looking for new volunteers to assist.

Bingo prizes consist of Mardi Gras beads, samples of personal care items, beanie babies, clothing items (not necessarily new, used but nice for Wernersville), candy items and the most desired prize

The Mission & Outreach Team God s Work, Our Hands St.

John s, we have opportunities for everyone in our congregation to participate: For our Youth, to do local community work following their Mission Trip For our children, to donate food to the Food

4 Bingo Ministry... St. John s supports a ministry reaching out to the residents of both Manor Care in Sinking Spring and Wernersville State Hospital. The first Monday of each month volunteers meet at one of the two venues to share some fellowship while playing bingo. The bingo players look forward to being able to play the game and of course win. The volunteers have an opportunity share the word from the outside and in many cases the only outside contact. We are always looking for new volunteers to assist. If interested please contact Dale Whitehead at (610) or by at w.thewhiteheads5@verizon.net. We are also in need of prizes to hand out to the winners. Bingo prizes consist of Mardi Gras beads, samples of personal care items, beanie babies, clothing items (not necessarily new, used but nice for Wernersville), candy items and the most desired prize is Hershey Bars. There is a collection station in the parlor for your contributions. We thank St. John s for your continued support of this ministry. The Mission & Outreach Team God s Work, Our Hands St. John s joins Evangelical Lutheran Churches across the United States to celebrate who we are: one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. At St. John s, we have opportunities for everyone in our congregation to participate: For our Youth, to do local community work following their Mission Trip For our children, to donate food to the Food Pantry by filling the Base Camp Tent at the Mt. Everest Vacation Bible School For our congregation, to donate coins to support the Lutheran organization in Nepal helping the children following the earthquake For our church, to recognize local Firefighters for their service at our church picnic For families, to help neighbors with fall clean-up activities in October For everyone, to fill the parlor with food bags in November in support of our local and global community And September 13th, the official God s Work, Our Hands Day and our Rally Day in which we will Connect with Christ, our Church and our Community. Watch for news about these opportunities and please join in for the fun and for the opportunity to Connect closer with Christ, Connect closer with members of our Church, and Connect closer with our local and global community. Your God s Work, Our Hands Team, Dale Whitehead, Jan Velekei, Mandy Roth, Shawn Pauley, Sally Orth, Scott Winkleman, Deb Dietrich, Sandy Myskowski and Pastor Rich 4

Bulletin Sponsors July 5 Sponsored by Dick & Shirley Davis July 12 Sponsored by Maxine

5 July Altar Flowers Sponsors July 5 Sponsored by Dale Moyer July 12 Sponsored by Glenn & Jen Rohrbach July 19 Open July 26 Sponsored by Kayla, Dan, and Stephanie Allen July Bulletin Sponsors July 5 Sponsored by Dick & Shirley Davis July 12 Sponsored by Maxine Hornberger July 19 Open July 26 Open Sponsorship cost: $40 Altar Flowers, $25 Bulletin. 5

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A message from your Congregation Council President... As we enter into the summer months I am looking forward to our summer worship schedule again this year.

I think this helped to bring the congregation together last summer as we were looking forward to calling a new Pastor.

I hope all of our members enjoy the summer worship schedule, along with summer activities such as Vacation Bible Schools and the Church Picnic.

7 A message from your Congregation Council President... As we enter into the summer months I am looking forward to our summer worship schedule again this year. We heard so many positive comments last summer about the combined worship service at 9am and social time following the service each week. I think this helped to bring the congregation together last summer as we were looking forward to calling a new Pastor. Now I think this summer schedule will be great for our congregation as we are moving forward with our new Pastor. I hope all of our members enjoy the summer worship schedule, along with summer activities such as Vacation Bible Schools and the Church Picnic. As always, the Staff and Council are open to your feedback, so please send any comments our direction. Sincerely, Patrick Velekei Congregation Council President Did you know Initially adopted by Congress on July 2, 1776, the revised version of the Declaration of Independence was not adopted until two days later. The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) estimates that more than 14,000 professional firework displays light up the skies in the United States each 4th of July. 7

Worship is often expressed through music. In 1 and 2 Chronicles, we are given a clear picture of God s plan for musicians in corporate worship.

8 Notes from the Minister of Music...Teresa Kissling Expressing Worship through Music God created music and musicians to precede and proclaim His presence, His power, and His Word; and to prepare His people to receive Him. Worship is often expressed through music. In 1 and 2 Chronicles, we are given a clear picture of God s plan for musicians in corporate worship. God did not create and appoint musicians to worship for the people, but rather to engage the people themselves in celebration and thankfulness through the medium of music. Many various instruments and styles of vocal expression are used to fulfill God s plan of worship through music. One such instrument, the English Handbell has become a medium for worship for multigenerational groups within the church setting. The sound of bells intrinsically brings a sense of awe and other-worldliness to a culture that is so grounded in the here and now. A finely crafted bell, well played, can produce a sound that is beautifully mysterious. And when a multigenerational group of people work cooperatively to produce it, they develop both individual skills and group musical sensitivity. Best of all, they experience fellowship and caring for each other as members of the body of Christ. In the sharing of a common task and goal the community of a bell choir represents the larger picture of Christ s body, the church. This summer I would like to offer a handbell camp for young people who have completed the first grade and higher. No musical knowledge is required. We will learn the basics of handchime and handbell ringing. The camp will be held August 10 through August 14. The time will be 9:30 am to 12:00 noon each. We will learn the basics, play musical games and break for a snack. Please encourage your children and youth to become a part of our worshipping community through the music of handbells. We will share what we have learned as a worship expression for the worship service on August 16. If interested, Please fill out the registration form and return it to the church office or Teresa Kissling. Please feel free to contact me with any questions at: or tkissling@saintjohnss.com 8

Lawrence & Bonita Hensley July 2 Dave & Cheryl Miller

Barrett July 17 Steven & Karen Allen July 22 Anthony &

Evelyn Trexler July 30 Harry & Carole Bohn July 31 Steven

9 Church Humor... Happy Anniversary Philip & Patricia Hite July 1 Lawrence & Bonita Hensley July 2 Dave & Cheryl Miller July 10 Kenneth & Laura Gifford July 15 Warren & Lois Barrett July 17 Steven & Karen Allen July 22 Anthony & Krysta Reber July 25 Ron & Ena Bieber July 29 James & Evelyn Trexler July 30 Harry & Carole Bohn July 31 Steven & Kathy Sawlsville July 31 This day I will marry my Friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love. ~ Anonymous 9

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August 16- Worship & Music August 23- Stewardship August 30- Church picnic September 6-

11 Fellowship Sunday Reception Schedule: July 5- Parish Fellowship July 12- Chris Ed July 19- Property July 26- Youth August 2- Women's Enrichment Group August 9- Mission & Outreach August 16- Worship & Music August 23- Stewardship August 30- Church picnic September 6- Evangelism Please contact Deb Scheidt if you have any questions by 11

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We served 85 families in June for a total of 348 individuals. The pantry date for July is July 17 with setup on Thursday July 16. Thanks to everyone who helped in June!

14 We served 85 families in June for a total of 348 individuals. The pantry date for July is July 17 with setup on Thursday July 16. Thanks to everyone who helped in June! Don't forget the annual volunteer picnic and meeting following the Friday distribution. Contact Judy Romberger if planning to attend and let her know if you are bringing a salad or dessert. Our pantry needs are especially great for peanut butter, canned meats especially tuna, pasta sauce and pasta, cereal, jelly, marshmallow fluff, canned vegetables and canned fruit. These items are in very short supply even from the Greater Berks Food Bank. REMINDER: All volunteers working Friday distribution must have completed the annual Civil Rights Training required by the state and federal government. The training can be found at the Wilson Area Food Pantry Website ( as well as at the West Lawn United Methodist Church website and the Saint John s Lutheran Church website. Currently over 70 volunteers have completed the training. We also wish to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation regarding the civil rights training requirement. Thanks for all who assist the less fortunate, Judy Romberger, Volunteer Coordinator Youth News & Events July 5-11 Week of Hope Mission trip to Pasadena, Maryland. July Genesis Preschool Under-the-Sea Camp from 9 AM-12 PM. Please contact Genesis Preschool for more information at (610) July Everest Vacation Bible School, from 9 AM-12 PM. Please contact the church office if you have any questions or to obtain a registration form at (610) , July 28, Youth Board Meeting, 6:30 PM 14

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16 July Volunteer Schedule Please remember that reminder calls are no longer being made to the volunteers. Schedules are mailed, available on the bulletin board near the office, the church website, and the newsletter and it will be the volunteer s responsibility to know when they are scheduled to serve. 16

Vacation Bible School 2015 St. John's Lutheran Church July 27-31, 2015 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (for ages 4 years thru sixth grade) Everyone is Welcome!

Everest VBS is filled with incredible Bible-learning experiences kids see, hear, touch and taste!

All children, age 4 through 6 th grade (grade just completed) are invited to attend St. John s Vacation Bible School program on July 27 th 31 st, 9:00 am to 12 noon.

The enclosed registration form can be completed and returned to your child s teacher or our church office. There is no fee for this summertime event, but an offering is taken each day.

If you do pre-register, your family will receive a CD of this year s cool music to learn and enjoy before VBS begins.

17 Vacation Bible School 2015 St. John's Lutheran Church July 27-31, :00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (for ages 4 years thru sixth grade) Everyone is Welcome! Dear Parents: Send your kids on an icy expedition! At Everest VBS, kids embark on the coolest adventure of the summer! Everest VBS is filled with incredible Bible-learning experiences kids see, hear, touch and taste! Team-building games, cool Bible songs and tasty treats are just a few of the standout activities that help faith flow into real life. All children, age 4 through 6 th grade (grade just completed) are invited to attend St. John s Vacation Bible School program on July 27 th 31 st, 9:00 am to 12 noon. You do not need to be a member of our church all children are welcome to experience Everest VBS. The enclosed registration form can be completed and returned to your child s teacher or our church office. There is no fee for this summertime event, but an offering is taken each day. Pre-registration is encouraged for planning purposes but children can also register on the first day of Everest VBS. If you do pre-register, your family will receive a CD of this year s cool music to learn and enjoy before VBS begins. Many volunteers are required to provide this wonderful week packed full of activities and you can also be part of this summer s Everest VBS team. The only skill required is the joy of spending time with children. It certainly is not mandatory that you help with Vacation Bible School in order for your child to attend the program. However, we would welcome your participation, if only for a morning or two during VBS week. You would be a real blessing to this summertime event. If you are interested in being a member of the Everest VBS team, please talk to your child s teacher or you can call Jan Velekei at Mark your calendar so your children do not miss the coolest adventure of the summer! Please register soon and spread the word to relatives, neighbors and friends so we can enjoy Everest VBS and discover God s mighty power together!! Sincerely, Your Everest VBS Director 17

Registration Form (1 Per Child) Child s name: VBS 2015 Child s gender: Child s age: Date of Birth: Last grade in school completed: Name of

Yes, I m willing to volunteer: No, I m unable to volunteer: (Please complete the health form) Allergies: Medications: Foods: Bee Stings: Others:

Proper medicine to treat these reactions must be given to the directors daily. Is your child on medication?

My child has permission to engage in all prescribed VBS activities including water activities except as noted by me. 3.

18 Registration Form (1 Per Child) Child s name: VBS 2015 Child s gender: Child s age: Date of Birth: Last grade in school completed: Name of parent(s): Street address: City/State/Zip: Home phone: Parent/Caregiver cell phone: Home address: Home church: WE NEED YOUR HELP! Yes, I m willing to volunteer: No, I m unable to volunteer: (Please complete the health form) Allergies: Medications: Foods: Bee Stings: Others: Health Form If any of the above are "yes", please indicate the reaction, and how it is treated. Proper medicine to treat these reactions must be given to the directors daily. Is your child on medication? Yes No If yes, please list Is there anything about your child that would be helpful for the directors and teaching staff to be aware of? My signature below certifies that: 1. My child has received the basic childhood immunizations required by law and a tetanus booster date within the last 10 years. 2. My child has permission to engage in all prescribed VBS activities including water activities except as noted by me. 3. I give permission to the directors / teachers to treat any injuries and illnesses as they deem necessary. 4. I give permission to the physicians secured by the church to hospitalize, secure proper treatment for, and to order injections, anesthesia, or surgery for my child as named herein. I also assume full financial responsibility for any treatment. Parent's signature: Physician's Name: Physician s Phone #: 18

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20 WE RE ON THE WEB! S T. J O H N S E V A N G E L I C A L L U T H E R A N C H U R C H 4125 Penn Avenue Sinking Spring, PA Phone: (610) Fax: (610) Website: stjohnsec@saintjohnss.com At St. John's, our family of faith is a warm and friendly congregation which finds great joy in worshipping the Risen Lord Jesus Christ in a variety of ways. Our mission takes us on a Christian journey where love can be shared, faith is enriched, and hope sustains us. Our Lutheran heritage guides us through God's Word with an enthusiasm for life and a conviction for truth. We are a congregation of all ages and backgrounds, but are united by our faith in Jesus. Come join us! We walk in Christ s love to sound His praise, tell His story, and serve His creation. The staff at St. John s... Parish Office: Reverend Richard Moore, Pastor AnneMarie Petrovich, Church Administrator Jodi Avanzato, Administrative Assistant Teresa Kissling, Minister of Music Kathy Sawlsville, Director-Youth Music Ministries Terry Pearson, Custodian Greg Klein, Custodian Michele Brossman, Custodian Genesis Preschool: Karen Peiffer, Director-Genesis Preschool/Toddler Time Tracy Arena Elaine Levkoff Sue Nagle Tracy Reed Stefanie Steffey Kim Schwartz Tracey Trout Mary Ann Weiherer Betty Wright Congregational Council: Jan Velekei, Director-Board of Christian Education Sandy Myskowski, Director-Board of Evangelism Dale Whitehead, Director-Board of Mission/Outreach Deb Scheidt, Director-Board of Parish Fellowship Terry Pearson, Director-Board of Property Gail Hauseman, Director-Board of Stewardship Michelle Leopold, Director-Board of Worship/Music Christine Woronko, Director-Board of Youth Ministries Congregational Officers: Patrick Velekei, President Jim Roth, Vice-President Gail Hauseman, Treasurer Cleann Pauley, Secretary

S T. J O H N S E V A N G E L I C A L L U T H E R A N C H U R C H

Pastor s Volume 2015, Issue 8 August The Light S T. J O H N S E V A N G E L I C A L L U T H E R A N C H U R C H S P E C I A L P O I N T S O F I N T E R E S T : Financial Highlights from January-June, see