The Portico Dr. Martin Luther Church 325 S. Main Street Oconomowoc, WI 53066 PHONE: (262) 567-3829 Email: dmlc@globaldialog.com Church Web Site: drmartinlutherchurch.org Cluster Web site: lakecountrycluster.org Saturday 5:00 PM Chapel Service traditional format Your Church Staff is here to serve you Senior Pastor Larry Harpster (262) 344-5942 Music Director Alison O Leary (262) 751-1596 Administrative Secretary Mary Engel (262) 567-3829 Volunteer Coordinator Bobbie Dierbeck (262) 567-3829 Sundays 9:00 AM Worship Includes a variety of musical styles, a blend of hymns and contemporary songs so that there is something for everyone. Sunday School will begin again on September 11 at the 10:30 AM Praise Service Sundays 10:30 AM Praise Service Roll the Stone, our Praise Band continues to perform. Join us at this upbeat and energetic service.
Page 2 It s a Celebration! June 26, 2016 9:00 11:00 a.m. PRAY FOR OUR GREATER MILWAUKEE SYNOD I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. (2 Timothy 1:3) On Thursday, June 2 through Saturday June 4 our Greater Milwaukee Synod will be hosting the annual synod assembly at Carthage College in Kenosha. The main excitement at this year s assembly will be the election of a new bishop. Bishop Jeff Barrows has served the last six years and is retiring this year. It is interesting how a bishop is elected. They are elected by ecclesiastical ballot. That means that on the first ballot any ordained minister can be nominated. Even clergy who are not part of our Greater Milwaukee Synod. There have been eight CLERGY names who have been surfaced as possible candidates, but on the first night of the assembly anyone can be nominated. Even I received a few votes six years ago. I hope you will pray for the one hundred and thirty or so congregations that are part of our Greater Milwaukee Synod. A Bishop is the pastor to the pastors. A bishop is the main missionary and vision setter for our synod. The person of the Bishop is important to the future of our Christian church in the Oconomowoc community. Blessings, Pastor Larry Please join us in fellowship hall for a breakfast brunch to celebrate our 60th Wedding Anniversary. No gifts please, your presence is our gift. If you feel you must give a gift donations to Seed of Hope is an option. Pastor Paul & Barb Lee New Members Welcomed On May 21 and 22 we welcomed the following people into our membership: Jeff and Nancee Boettcher, Patricia Page, Phyllis Scheffel, Joan Russo and Larry Foat. Cora Marie Bloomer, daughter of Justin and Kayla Bloomer, was baptized on Sunday, May 22nd. We pray God s richest blessing be with Cora ash she grows. Wedding Congratulations We congratulate Amanda Mouradian and Kyle Koening who were united in marriage on Saturday, April 30th. We congratulate Molly Engel and Ian Radix who will be united in marriage on Saturday, June 11th. We pray God s richest blessing be with these newlyweds as they begin their lives together.
Page 3 April 14 2016 Council Meeting Minutes Present: Heidi Teuteberg, Gordon Fluery, James Costigan (president), Dale Reich (secretary), and Pastor Larry Harpster. Not present: Erik Hayes, John Wick. After an opening prayer, the meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by President James Costigan. The minutes of the Feb. 18 meeting were approved. Pastor reported that the church experienced a $9,000 operating budget surplus for the first quarter of the year. In addition, cash giving for the Seeds of Hope campaign have now reached $300,000, with another $150,000 needed before construction on the new addition and various improvements can begin. It is hoped that the construction phase of the project may begin as early as Spring, 2017. Pastor also reported that three summer retreats are planned: teens, July 24-29, with the time divided between Lutherdale in Elkhorn and a site in Milwaukee; women, May 20-22; men, Aug. 12-14. Gordon explained that the current stoves in the kitchen are old and constantly in need of repair. As a result, the Council unanimously approved the purchase of three new stoves at a cost of approximately $1,100. Pastor said that a "wish list," for those who prefer more specific giving, is being developed. An electric guitar for Sunday worship service is one example on the list. On the weekend of May 1, Pastor will say a blessing for the Council. Members of the Council are urged to attend at least one of the services. This year's unity worship service is scheduled for Aug. 21, with a 10 a.m. service only. Discussion was held concerning the location, with Council members contemplating a possible move of that service (and accompanying picnic) to either Roosevelt Park or Fowler Park. While there are advantages to such a move, Pastor cautioned that any change in location for that service may result in a loss of some participation. However, it is also hoped that a new location might provide the opportunity to attract those who might otherwise not attend this annual event. The matter will be given further study before any decision is made. James expressed concern about the deterioration of the surface of some of the steps leading to the front of the church. The matter will be referred to the appropriate church committee. The meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m. The next meeting of the DML church council will be held on May 19. The new time will be 5:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Dale Reich, secretary A Healing Blessing will be available during each service the weekend of June 11 and 12 GIFT (Growing In Faith Together) Women s Bible Study We meet on the second and fourth Thursdays at 6:30p.m All Women are welcome. All Men are invited to participate in a great casual learning and fellowship experience among the "Early Risers" that takes place on the SECOND SATURDAY of every month at the Cafe LaBelle (located within the Shorehaven complex) from 7:30-8:30 am. Please contact Chris Butschke (262.966.0270) or Mike Driscoll (262.646.5605) for directions/additional details. The Thursday Night Men's Bible Study Group meets on the FOURTH THURSDAY of the month at the office of Tricia Troops at 7:00 PM. The address for Tricia s Troops is 120 E. Wisconsin Avenue, but the entrance is in the BACK of the building overlooking Fowler Lake. The office is in-between Laker's and the Root's Coffee Bar. We are currently studying the Books of Peter. Any one is invited feel free to bring a friend even if they are not a member of DMLC. It is always welcoming to get all views on the readings in the Bible. Any questions contact Mike Schmitz at 262-569-9246.
Page 4 Seasoned Lutherans Seasoned Lutherans meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at noon for a home cooked lunch followed by a program. June 22 - We will play BINGO and have an indoor picnic September 28 - Barb Hirsch, Oconomowoc Area Historical Society will give a presentation on historic Oconomowoc persons. Oconomowoc has an exciting history and nobody presents it better than Barb Hirsch. Her LaBelle Cemetery presentation last year was one of the most popular programs of the year. This year she will follow through with a discussion of the lives of some of the famous people who are buried in the cemetery. How can an old pair of jeans make a difference? When you donate your old jeans, you turn this into this DMLC 2016 Vacation Bible School Egypt Joseph s Journey from prison to palace August 1st 4th 9:00am-12:00 All children potty trained through 6th grade DMLC s Youth are currently collecting blue denim for Sole Hope. Sole Hope is dedicated to the healing and prevention of jiggers in children in Africa. Jiggers burrow into feet and lay eggs which multiply and damage tissue, causing great pain and horrible infections. With your held, we can help. Donated your old blue denim, purchase it from a second hand store such as Goodwill or St. Vincent s and ask friends and neighbors! ***Bring your donations to the church office*** Stay tuned for more ways to help by attending our shoe cutting party coming soon! Volunteers needed for Decorating, Leaders, Assistants and Tear Down Contact Angie Lewein at 262-567-5629 or jesustakethewheel@hotmail.com
WISHING WELL FOR JUNE DMLC Endowment Fund Page 5 Many of you do not know what this is, or that it even exists! Our hope is to create a better awareness of this wonderful fund. It was created by contributions & bequeaths. There is a dollar amount that stays in the fund and the interest is given to individuals or groups to aid in their need for spiritual education and enrichment. For example, we have given checks to help with the recent trip to Kentucky, B.A.G.S for the homeless, our previous youth minister, Evan, to help with expenses at Seminary, Tricia's Troops, two of our dedicated youth for mission trips to impoverished countries, etc. We are so blessed to be able to help with these causes. The goal is to build the fund, so that we can do much more for many years to come. If your heart is moved to make a donation or bequeath, please contact Pastor Larry Harpster or Pastor Larry Westfield. ONE MAN FUNDRAISER On Tuesday, July 5th, Dale Reich will be golfing and golfing and golfing some more as a fundraiser for Tricia s Troops. This will be taking place at St. John s Northwestern Academy in Delafield. (Pray for good weather!) He will be taking pledges during the next few weeks and has suggested a pledge as.20/hole which would equal $25.00 as he sets out to golf 125 holes.walking!! (I m huffing and puffing just thinking about this)! For a tax deduction, please make your checks payable to Tricia s Troops, Inc. You may place your donation in the offering plate. Tricia s Troops was founded by William & Tricia Wright during her courageous battle with stage IV colon cancer and has recently celebrated 5 years as a non-profit organization to help local cancer patients in finding hope, encouragement and assistance as they face the challenges of cancer. Good luck Dale!! OUTREACH FOR HOPE The theme for this year s September 10 th family bike ride is Pedal to Push Down Poverty. You may participate by registering, ride, raise funds or volunteer. For more information go to outreachforhope.org. GRASS CUTTERS The sign-up sheet is placed on the table in the back of the church. There are still many dates to choose from. If you are considering signing up, our experienced grass cutters would be happy to show you the ropes if you have never done this before. Our thanks to the Graupman Family, Lee Gallert, Dan Zautner, Andy & Julie King, Dale Reich and Reggie Ingersoll for being the first to sign up. You continue to be a blessing to all of us at DMLC! CANDLELIGHT FAITHWALK The date has tentatively been set for our Candlelight Faithwalk as October 22 nd. It seems a long way off, but if you are interested in the planning stage, please get in touch with Candi Strong or myself. We thoroughly enjoy making this evening meaningful for all who attend. We will provide more information as the plans become known, but for now circle October 22 on your calendar. I promise it will be an event you will want to take part in. MOUNT MERU COFFEE Many thanks to those of you who purchased Mount Meru coffee during Fellowship on Sunday mornings. Please feel free to let us know your thoughts, so that we have an idea what we should be ordering in the future. The Mount Meru Coffee Project brings together a fair market price for Tanzanian farmers and a quality coffee for consumers. Take time to identify your gift and use these gifts for God s work in this beautiful world that He has created. Happy Spring! Bobbie Dierbeck, Volunteer Coordinator
Page 6 Dear Sisters in Christ: Our Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has called us to remember that we are the church together. Sisters, Women of the ELCA is one way we are intentionally women of the church together. We believe that women are called to make a difference in the world. You are aware of the water crisis in the Southeast Michigan Synod, specifically in Flint, MI. Donations of bottles of water have been helpful however, disposal of the empty bottles have caused a crisis for the landfills. The Greater Milwaukee Synod Women are asking Congregational Units to support Southeast Michigan Synod Women of the ELCA in providing financial donations to support the long process of obtaining drinkable water. Filtration Systems that are certified against NSF/ ANSI standards 53, such as: Brita Faucet Mount Systems ($35) PUR MaxIon Advanced Faucet Water Filter ($35) Zero Water 23 Cup Pitcher ($40) PUR MaxIon Faucet Mount Replacement Water Filter (approx. $30 for two) Whole House systems for residents (estimated costs at $10,000 ea.) Hand Sanitizer for basic hand cleaning On March 19, 2016, the Greater Milwaukee Synodical Board responded to this request to walk together with the women of the Southeast Michigan Synod by authorizing our treasurer to immediately issue a check in the amount of $500 to the Southeast Michigan Synod Women of the ELCA. While that will help somewhat we feel we can do more if we act together. So, the Greater Milwaukee Synod Women of the ELCA Board is issuing a challenge to the many women s groups in each congregation of this synod to match the board donation by contributing at least $500 to support purchase of the above listed items to lessen the water crisis in the Southeast Michigan Synod. Please share this request with the women in your circles, groups, and units. Send your congregational units' donations to our GMS Treasurer Nancy Sack, 2013 S. 97 th Street, West Allis, WI 53227. Make the check out to Women of the ELCA. We would like to complete our collection and send our contribution to the Southeast Michigan Synod unit by July 1 st. 9th Annual Family Bide Ride Saturday, September 10, 2016 St. Bruno Parish, Dousman Sign Up Now... Support Outreach for Hope... Share the Fun Now is the time to get your bike out of storage, put air in the tires, check the chain, take a few rides, and get your legs in shape for the Outreach for Hope Family Bike Ride. There is something for everyone to support the churches of the Greater Milwaukee Synod doing ministry in the very heart of low income communities in Southeast Wisconsin. Join in the fun as together we Pedal to Push Down Poverty. Registration is now open. A generous Action Grant by Brennan s and Pavement Consulting will provide an additional $25 for each registered or virtual rider. For information and to register visit the website www.ofhbikeride.com. All ages and abilities are welcome. Newsletter Deadline The deadline for the July issue of The Portico is Monday, June 20. All information for the month of July must be submitted by this date. Stewardship Report April Monthly Actual Budget Income $24,480.34 $25,922.33 Expense $26,125.99 $25,922.33 Monthly Income Expense ($1,645.65) Year to Date Actual Budget Income $108,302.94 $103,860.92 Expense $100,437.33 $103,689.44 Year to Date Income Expense $7,865.61
Page 7 DMLC Softball: Once again after one year off, there is a newly reorganized/combined DMLC Tuesday night church league softball team. Games are at 6 pm, or 7 pm, and are at several different locations. The schedule is below if you would like to come out and support the team. Contact either of the co-managers with any questions: John Wick: (262) 305-0680 or Dave Magedanz: (262) 490-2722. Schedule: 5/10 Delafield Fireman s Park 6 pm vs Christ The King (will be rescheduled due to rainout) 5/17 Delafield Legion Field 7 pm vs Whitestone Leviathan 5/24 Oakwood s Mission Field --- 6 pm vs Whitestone Trinity 5/31 YMCA Pabst Farms 6 pm vs Holy Name of Jesus 6/7 Bye week it appears 6/14 YMCA Pabst Farms 7 pm vs Whitestone Behemoth 6/21 YMCA Pabst Farms 7 pm vs Divine Redeemer 6/28 Oakwood s Mission Field --- 6 pm vs Oakwood Blue 7/5 Oakwood s Mission Field --- 7 pm vs Elmbrook Lake Country 7/12 Oakwood s Mission Field --- 6 pm vs Oakwood Red 7/19 Field TBD 7 pm vs St. Michael s Quilting for Lutheran World Relief Quilters will meet on Wednesday, June 15 at 9AM in fellowship hall to make quilts for Lutheran World Relief. You do not need to know how to sew to help with this project. FREE FOOD given to anyone in need (no forms, no questions asked) Mobile Food Pantry will be Outdoors at Roosevelt Pavilion, Oconomowoc Friday, June 17 Friday, July 15 Friday, August 26 3 6PM or until supplies last In cooperation with Our Savior s Lutheran Church & St. Paul s Evangelical Lutheran Church www.feedingamerica.org (Bring your own bags or boxes) 7/26, 8/2, 8/9. 8/16 - Rainout makeup games and tournament tentative dates June 14 at St. Peter s Lutheran Church in Lebanon. Registration starts at 4:00 pm-6:30pm. Distribution begins at 5:00 pm-6:30pm. Please bring a $20 Cash donation-and 2 large baskets for your products. No residency requirements needed. The new registration form for Ruby's Pantry 2016, can be printed out at www.stpetersoflebanonwi.org. Just go to our "Events" page and scroll down to "Event Details". Directions how to get here and new form can be printed out and you can have it done when you get here!