Zion s Good News WORSHIP. August 19 and 26 9:00 a.m. Worship

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1 Stratford, WI We re on the web! Zion Lutheran Church 700 North 2nd Avenue Phone: Fax: Address Service Requested Non Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Stratford, WI Permit No. 6 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH Zion s Good News AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018 WORSHIP August 19 and 26 9:00 a.m. Worship Saturday, August 25 Installation of new Bishop, Laurie Skow-Anderson at Bethel Highlands, Hudson, WI see page 8 for more information September 2 9:00 a.m. Worship Around the Farm: It All Started in a Barn September 9 Contemporary Worship at 9:00 a.m. in Bud and Marilyn Suckow s barn. Continental breakfast, games and activities for all ages following worship. September 16 9:00 a.m. Worship Steven Friberg, Missionary Visit. God s Work, Our Hands. September 23 and 30 9:00 a.m. Worship

2 Relationships, Relationships, Relationships Vibrant Faith, a leader in Faith Formation Education talks about four locations for ministry: church, home, community, and online. All four of these places provide numerous opportunities for fostering relationships. And you and I know that God uses relationships to bring God s love to the world. So, let s consider these four locations as we launch another program year: Church Of course this is a no-brainer, but it seems that many churches consider this the only place that relationships can happen. When we plan gatherings that take place at church we need to ask: How do the connections here lead to continued relationships out there the other 6 days of the week? Do we care more about getting people to sign up than we do about what s happening in their lives? Home Vibrant Faith has shown us how the congregation is a partner with the home in forming faith. Not only do we believe it, but we know that when it happens, people are more likely to grow in their faith and faith becomes central to daily living. Community Much of our lives are lived out in the community, especially if you are a family involved in sports or the arts, which means you are running somewhere almost every night of the week. We often forget that God is present in those times and places as well. We need to look at these events within our faith instead of competition with our faith. Online Online is a way of life these days and we must see our presence online as a place for relationship. The world of the internet provides many opportunities for connection and fostering relationships. The internet gives us multiple opportunities to share what s happening. Not only is Sunday an opportunity for building relationships, but the other 6 days of the week provide multiple points of connection with people. If we focus all our energy and resources on one day a week, then we convey the message that the rest is not that important. Yet, it s in the daily ebb and flow of real life that people need to sense and experience the presence of God through all kinds of relationships. May we be a church that follows God through relationships in all places and spaces. Pastor Sue YOUR CHURCH STAFF COUNCIL MEMBERS President: Brenda Castellano V. Pres.: Maryel Schoenfuss Secretary: Angie Guralski Treasurer: Marge Redetzke Evangelism: Cory Wiesman Faith Formation: Jackie Fischer Property: Lee Spindler Stewardship: Amy Cournoyer Worship: Lois Miller PASTOR: Sue Eidahl Home Phone: eides@zionlc.com DCM: Craig Gauerke Phone: craig@zionlc.com Secretary: Lori Lang office@zionlc.com WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ZION Write us at Zion Lutheran Church, 700 North Second Ave, Stratford, WI Phone us at :30 a.m. to 1 p.m. or leave a voice mail message. Or us at office@zionlc.com or directly to s above. WEB SITE: WEEKLY Goes out on Monday morning. office@zionlc.com to be added to the receiver list. TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 9:00 a.m. INDEX Page 1 Worship Schedule & Rally Sunday 2 Pastor Sue s Letter 3 Craig s Letter 4 Rally Sunday 5 Confirmation Kick Off / Contemplative Worship / Faith Formation 6 Stewardship / VBS Thank You / Zion Helpers 7 Little Lutherans and J-Team 8 Bishop - elect, Laurie Skow Anderson / Pastoral Acts 9 Bible Study / Teacher Meal 10 Meditation Garden / Book of the Month 11 Council Minutes / Building Update 12 Missionary Update / Experience Faith 13 August Birthdays and Anniversaries / Photo Directory Update 14 September Birthdays and Anniversaries / Bell Choir 15 Church Staff and Index Pull out: August & September Calendars and Serving Schedules. NEWSLETTER DEADLINE The 21st of each month. ANNOUNCEMENT DEADLINE Wednesdays by 9:00 a.m. PLEASE keep the office updated: Address & changes Births, Deaths, Hospitalizations Phone / Cell changes 2 15

3 SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS 1 - Sean Garrigan Olympia Garrigan Charmaine Ulrich 2 - Kamelle Van Der Leest 3 Raymond White 4 - Samantha Griesbach Kyle Southwick 6 - Floyd Zopfi 8 - Reed Curtis Braden Pupp Jackie Fischer 9 - Gary Skerhutt Megan Wussow 10 - Blaine Aschenbrenner Christine Dalbeck Debra Wieland 12 - Vicki Hughes Mason Oertel Shawna Moen 14 - Esther Miller Jordan Shinn 15 - Tanner Oertel Patricia Tietyen 16 - Brooklynn Zawislan Melissa Mikelson 18 - Brenda Garrigan Jeremy Schoenherr Jasmine Grell Anne Zuelke 19 - Amy Reno 20 - Jamie Garrigan 21 - Shirley Van Ryzin Jim Pfahning Heather Wenzel 22 Ellie Southwick 23 - Toshia Spindler Gwen Smazal 24 - Brent Spindler Mike Johnson 25 - Steve Miller Scott Johnson 26 - Charlie Kramer Tom Griffith 27 - Patrick Johnson 28 - Richard Dennee 29 - Brooke Zimmermann 30 - Jeremy Frueh Hallie Halopka ANNIVERSARIES 1 - Willy & Sue Marohl Rudy & JoAnn Werner 3 - Lee & Brenda Weigel 11 - Troy & Michelle Multerer 14 - Lenny & Bonnie Zawislan 17 Mike & Jenny Wilke 19 - Travis & Trina Moen 21 - Keith & Wendy Grell Scott & Noel Pupp 24 - Paul Untiet & Sandy Borman 25 - Charles & Lisa Foley Terry and Tammy Hoesly Bill and Grace Kobs 26 - Gerald & Karen Viegut 28 - Dan & Rhonda Thompson 29 - Randy & Linda Lauer The Golden Rule of Zen This morning as I normally do, I looked at my Buddhist quote calendar near my bed. As someone who loves to connect the world religions into a pluralistic wisdom I have a lot of different quote books and other religious texts lying around my house. Anyway, I was about to flip it over to August, but I had to read July s quote one last time before moving on (I know it is about to be September). It read, Not thinking about anything is Zen. Once you know this, walking, standing, sitting, or lying down, everything you do is Zen. This got me thinking about life and the world. What does it mean to be Zen? How can I as a Christian learn from this Zen Buddhist quote? Finally, as we all enjoy Labor Day weekend how can we find Zen in everyday life? According to Katsuki Sekida, a teacher of Zen Buddhism, Zen emphasizes on rigorous self-control, meditationpractice, and one s personal expression in daily life, specifically for the benefit of others. As such, it de-emphasizes mere knowledge of human doctrine and favors direct understanding through spiritual interaction with the world and others. Zen in its simplest practice is a way to live. As Christians we have something very similar, we are told at an early age the Golden Rule in Matthew 7:12, Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. The elements of self-control and thinking of others is clearly seen in the Golden Rule. Zen is interacting with the world in a new way. The Golden Rule is thinking about the actions we do in this world by seeing the world in a new way. Both result in thinking about others. BELL CHOIR We will start practice Sunday, Sept 23 at 10:15. If any one is interested in learning more about the bell choir please visit us in our practice room. We need 1 or 2 more players. Come join and have a good time while making music. For more information contact Paul Untiet So, as we celebrate our Labor Day weekend by enjoying some juicy watermelon and good old potato salad with family and friends. I challenge you to remember others who are working hard, take action to support those who do not have a voice, and just maybe think differently to find Zen in God s Mercy and Grace. Be still, and know that I am God - Psalm 46:10 Craig Gauerke, Director of Congregational Ministry 3

4 Rally Sunday, September 9th Inevitably, at this time of year, I am asked by at least several people about the meaning of Rally Day. When we advertise the beginning of the new Church School year, we call the first Sunday, Rally Day. It is a day set aside to reassemble or rally after the relatively quiet summer of vacations, camps, etc. Most churches launch their programming and ministries. School is back in session; families are getting back into a routine; people are coming back to church; and it s time to get people engaged again. In many Protestant churches, Rally Day marks the beginning of the church calendar year. It typically occurs in September. The customs associated with it vary quite a bit from parades and picnics to special church meetings where goals for the coming year are presented. At Zion, we use the first Sunday after Labor Day as our Rally Day to mark the beginning of the new church year calendar. So this year it is September 9 th! This day at Zion is special to celebrate a new beginning. Our theme for the day is It All Started in A Barn, and guess what, we will be worshiping in a barn at the Bud and Marilyn Suckow farm here in town. (430 6 th Ave.) The adult Bible study begins the Fall term with our study of the texts for the coming Sunday. We will meet from 10-11:30 in the Conference Room each Tuesday. AUGUST BIRTHDAYS 2 - Holly Huther Shawn Carl 3 - Eleanor Smazal 8 - Karen Viegut 9 - Margaret Zimmerman Dane Poppy 10 - Jadyn Gebelein 12 - Sandy Borman Ashley Beining 13 - Bev Schraeder Adam Maguire 14 Keri Manecke Clayton Foster Bella Kangas Jennifer Wilke 15 Robert Stotmeister 16 Angela Guralski Ann McShane 18 Travis Halopka 20 Heidi Moen 22 Kaitlyn Ulrich 24 Kristi Hughes Jessica Trachte 25 Maryel Schoenfuss Kyle Brubaker Jenny Kauffman 28 - Jaykob Mikelson 29 Wendy Grell 30 Randy Lauer 31 Chuck Gliniecki ANNIVERSARIES 2 - Alan & Linda Greenberg 3 - Gary & Mary Wussow 5 - Dennis & Cheryl Kuyoth 6 - David & Denise Marg 8 - Gary & Shirley Skerhutt 10 Bernie & Jean Huser 11- Blaine & Kelly Aschenbrenner 12 Floyd & Pat Zopfi John & Sarah Schuette 13 Dennis & Melanie Nikolai 14 Jeremy & Cari Frueh Adam & Jodi Maguire 15 Tadd & Janet Schoenherr 17 Randy & Linda Lauer 19 Scott & Wendy Johnson 20 - Bruce & Melissa Mikelson 25 Richard & Rachel Anderson Steve & Terri Harteau 27 - Ryan & Amy Cournoyer 31 - Shane & Yvonne Moen The children called J-Team and Little Lutherans make a bigger splash on this special day. Schedules and announcements will be available. If you are a parent, a child, an adult, or really, anyone at all, I hope you celebrate Rally Day, September 9 th, with us. Pastor Sue The 2018 Photo Directory will be postponed at this time due to the upcoming address changes that are coming this fall. There is possibly also going to be another photo date scheduled in the fall for anyone that could not make it in the summer. Once we have more information, we will keep everyone posted! Thank you! Evangelism Team 4 13

5 Steven Friberg, the missionary we have supported for over 20 years is coming to Zion on September 16. Steven will share with us at worship and will be available for conversation at fellowship. Bethany and Steven Friberg are ELCA missionaries who have been serving alongside the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania for more than 20 years. Steve s parents were missionaries to Tanzania and except for his U.S. based academic training as a pediatrician, he has lived his entire life in Tanzania. The Fribergs have three children: twin boys, Nyika and Zaka, and a daughter, Shalai. The boys attend boarding school in Kenya and Shalai is home-schooled by her mother in their home village of Ketumbeine. Steve is a doctor who works in medical clinics that serve nomadic Maasai people in remote areas. Bethany works with the "Bead Ladies"-- Maasai women who have a small business of creating beadwork to provide a means of supporting themselves and their families Confirmation Kickoff is September 12th. Bring your calendars and sign-up for Core and Elective classes for This is for grades 7,8, and 9. 6:00-7:00. Handbooks and sign-up sheets will be available. This kick off is for students and parents. Also Disciples for Christ (10 grade) parents and students meet at 7:00 pm. Mentors Only meet at 7:30 pm. Contemplative Worship Fourth Thursday of each month 6:00 pm in the Conference Room. A quiet service of meditation and scripture reading and rest. A great opportunity to spend time with Jesus. Bring a friend. Experience Faith Meeting - September 16 th Youth in grades 9 th -12 th are invited to an informational meeting looking at potential summer 2019 faith journey ideas. After worship we will meet in the Family Center to have an open discussion. A number of ideas will be proposed and input into other options is welcome. Faith Formation Team Meeting September 4th 6:30PM - 7:30PM Anyone who has a passion for youth ministry programming is welcome to come. Contact Craig, DCM for more information. 12 5

6 COUNCIL MINUTES Zion Lutheran Church Council met on Monday June 18, 2018 President Brenda Castellano called the meeting to order Amy Cournoyer led with devotions. September 9th Rally Sunday Introductory Sunday September 16th Missionary Steven Friberg Daily Prayer September 23rd Bible Reading September 28th Faithful Worship Attendance October 7th Sharing the Good News October 14th Financial Gifts October 21st Service Join us as we deepen our faith in Jesus Christ. Thank YOU to all who helped out with VBS 2018 ~ Shipwrecked! During the meeting the council: Approved the Secretary Report. Approved the Treasurer Report. Approved the Ministry Team Report Pastor had a wedding every weekend in June, she will be taking some of her vacation in July Craig was finalizing everything for the NYG, VBS will be held July Laurie Skow-Anderson will be our new bishop Looking at getting the Family Center painted after VBS God s work our hand s will be September 16 th Respectfully submitted by Angie Guralski Secretary * * * A full copy of the Secretary s notes is in the office. * * * Attention Zion Members Come share your love for Christ by volunteering during the worship service. There are many ways to actively participate: usher, greeter, communion assistant, basket carrier, acolyte, bell ringer, button pusher (media), etc. All members are in the rotation for greeting You are welcome to sign up on line to help out during the worship services. Go to SignUpGenius.com using my address: hutherbk@yahoo.com If you are unable to serve at the assigned time please contact the church office and let Lori know as soon as you can. Thank you! Brenda Huther Building Update 2018 Payment Bi-Weekly Start Payment Interest Principal Ending Dates Balance Amount Paid Paid Balance 04/13 & 04/27 $400, $3, $1, $1, $ 398, /11 & 05/25 $398, $3, $1, $1, $ 396, /08 & 06/22 $396, $3, $1, $1, $ 394, /06 & 07/20 $394, $3, $1, $1, $ 392, Total monthly principal payments $ 7, Total monthly interest payments $ 4, Balance of loan as of $ 392, Partners Bank Building checking acct balance as of $ 36,

7 Meditation Garden Addition Special thanks to Dan and Deb Wieland for donating the stainless steel cross that stands in the Meditation Garden. Dan and Deb not only donated the materials but also the design and installation. The cross is lit at dusk with a solar light. Check it out the next time you walk by the garden. Also special thanks to Amber Knetter and her family for their work with the plants and flowers in the Meditation Garden. Little Lutherans Lessons and J-Team Topics Spark Story Bible (SB) God s Promises Bring Hope September 19 October 3 October 17 God Calls Abram SB Pages: Genesis 12:1-9 Parting of the Red Sea SB Pages: Exodus 14:5-7, 10-14, Ten Commandments SB Pages: Exodus 19:3-7; 20:1-17 Pentecost What is a Christian? What is a Lutheran? BOOK OF THE MONTH: JAMES J-Team Topic: Faith, Family, Friends, School, Sports a Balancing Act! J-Team Topic: Recognizing God s Gifts J-Team Topic: Justice & Fairness Each day of the week read the same verse or verses three times. Try different speeds of reading. What words stick out to you on Monday may be different on Friday. Think about the meaning in your life, and others around you. Enjoy! The main theme in the Book of James is to live life by way of faith in Christ as one s foundation. Live and do in the eye of God s word rather than earthly wisdom. Martin Luther is known to have wrestled with parts of this book. Sept. 2nd: James 1:22-24 Sept. 9th: James 2:14-17 Sept. 16th: James 3:5 Sept. 23rd: James 4:6 Sept. 30th: James 5:13-16 Little Lutherans & J-Team Volunteer Gathering September 5 th 4:00PM-5:30PM This will be a low key gathering event to collaborate and plan for the upcoming year. Thank you to all returning and new volunteers. Please Craig (craig@zionlc.com) if you are interested in joining the team. 10 7

8 Everyone is welcome to join us for Bible Study Tuesday Mornings 10-11:30 am Beginning Sept. 11 in the Conference Room We will be studying the lesson for the coming Sunday. What a great way to prepare for Sunday Worship Teacher Appreciation Meal Each year the Evangelism Team prepares and serves dinner to the Stratford Public School teachers, staff and bus drivers. This meal is a kick-off to the school and an appreciation for all they do for the students of the district. PASTORAL ACTS Pastor Sue officiated at the weddings of Kristie Oertel and Michel Hughes, Anna Eidahl and Kyle Bauer, Megan Stack and Tyler Custer, and Heather Romatowski and Eric Clark. Pastor Sue officiated at the Baptisms of Breleigh Autumn Shanks, Finley Rae White, and Dayton Louis White. Pastor Sue officiated at the funeral of Shelby Schmitz, and the internment service for Corey Joswiak. This year marks our 5 th annual dinner which is served on Wednesday, August 29 th before the Open House. Teachers and staff have in-service meetings throughout the day and have a short break before the students and parents come in for the Open House. Our typical attendance is between people plus we package several take out meals for the volleyball and football coaches. This meal allows them to enjoy a meal and camaraderie among peers before the school year starts. If you see a Stratford teacher, staff member or bus driver, take a minute and thank them. 8 9