November 2008                                                   

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we enter November we reflect on the recent celebrations of Reformation Day, of GRACE Groups, and of the reprise of Patchwork Quilt. Each gives reason to thank our Lord for people, past and present, who are dedicated to the Lord's service. Martin Luther led our church body to be shaped by the moniker of Grace alone, Faith alone, Scripture alone. Our small group ministry and its leaders have fostered a wonderful spiritual and personal growth in many members through Bible study and special associations. Patchwork Quilt directors, cast, and crew have fashioned a lively, fun spirit into raising funds for worthy causes. Let us give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!

Just ahead is a day of national Thanksgiving, preceded by our New Consecration Sunday. Both give us reason to consider the great blessings we receive from our Lord. As a nation we are greatly blessed, even in difficult times of multiple crises and uncertain elections. Most of us would never consider changing our citizenship to find greener pastures, a better life, than we have in our beloved U.S.A. Our citizenship in God's heavenly kingdom is most precious of all. Our thanks overflows to God for His precious gifts.

New Consecration Sunday is a special day on which each of us is asked to consider the use of our Time, Talent, and Treasure. These gifts from the Lord are intended to be used to His glory and to do His will. You know that His will is that all be saved, and none be lost (see John 6:40). Our Time, Talent, and Treasure must be used to that end, fostering our own spiritual maturity and faith, as well as that of others. It is truly our blessing to be able to use God's gifts to us to His glory.

Lord, God, heavenly Father, giver of all good gifts, I pray that you would use me and each member of St. John's to bring Your gifts of love, mercy, forgiveness, grace, glory, and salvation to our neighbors near and far. In Jesus name. Amen.

Blessed to be your brother in Christ, Pastor Stroup

Preschool Registration Now Open to the Community

St. John’s Lutheran Church & School Preschool Registration for the 2008/2009 Preschool Year is now open to the community.

St. John’s preschool program curriculum, developed by an experienced staff, includes a focus on faith, academics, problem solving, literacy skills, science, creative experiences, small & large motor development, play time and lots of love. All are welcome! (Membership at St. John’s Church is not a requirement).

Click for more info.

* Note that class size is limited and is available on a first-come, first serve basis.

MEN OF HIS WORD

Men of His Word will be studying the Beatitudes on November 15th. All men are invited to attend. We meet the 3rd Saturday of every month in the mezzanine and follow up with breakfast at Reeses Restaurant. Call Ed Peters for questions or information 847-658-5658.

PINOCHLE ANYONE?

We meet in the activity center on
Saturday, November 15th at 7:00 p.m.
offering prizes of free pinochle, fun, fellowship
and refreshments. We'd Love to see you there!
Linda, Anna & Donna

Board of Discipleship

Heartland Blood Drive, Monday, March 10th

3:30p.m. to 7:30p.m - The mezzanine

Look for our appointment registration table [in the narthex] on February 23 and 24 and on March 1 and 2. `Our goal is 30 donors! Please give this gift of life. Questions- Sue Stroup [847-458-6857] Drive Coordinator 

PADS (1st Sunday) Carol Otto

Wayside (2nd Saturday) Linda Klbecka

Crisis Center (4th Tuesday) Tuesday night Bible study.

IN-Reach –  We will be continuing the development of the new board. Anyone welcomed to join. RSVP or questions to Anna Martell (847-302-6635), Linda Burmeister (847-658-8977), or Jackie Danz (847-515-3403)

Alumni Search – If You, any member of your family (immediate and other relatives), or if you know of someone who attended St. Johns school at any time would you, or they, provide us with a picture and an explanation of what they have done since being at St. Johns? We are putting them on our bulletin board in the activity center. Leave in church or school office Attention: Char.

Adopt a Highway –

THANK YOU

– To all those who participated in our Highway Cleanup for 2008, a sincere thank you!! The last cleanup was completed on Saturday, October 18th. We look forward to seeing more of you in 2009, the more people, the easier the task. Our first cleanup will be in April of 2009, we will be contacting you then. Enjoy the clean highway. Board of Discipleship Thanks, Duke Otto

Thanks,

Duke Otto

Founders’ Day Booth -   Thanks to all who helped serve at this years Founders' Day Booth

MARKET DAY

Market Day offers quality frozen dinner entrees, meats, poultry, fish, side dishes and more.   Nothing currently scheduled.   

PORTRAITS FOR ST. JOHN’S 2009 PICTORIAL DIRECTORY

For members of St. John’s church and school, photo sessions will be available October 24^th-30^th and November 1^st. A table will be set up in the narthex for several weekends providing an opportunity for you to schedule an appointment for your portrait. You may also call the church office Monday through Friday 847-658-9300 to schedule.

MUSIC***MUSIC***MUSIC!!!!!!!
           
The Lord is looking for dedicated people who love to sing or play any instrument.  He has given all of us special talents and interests.  Now is a good time to use your talent to praise and worship our God.  Let me tell you a little about our Music Department here at St. John's.

Chancel Choir - This is our adult choir, which sings twice a month in church.  We sing the first Sunday of every month at the 10:30 a.m. service and the third Sunday at the 8:00 a.m. service.  We also sing for all holiday services and special events during the church year.  Rehearsal is held between the services on Sunday mornings starting at 9:15 a.m. in the church.  Anyone high school age or older is welcome to join us. 
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Gloria Dei Bells - This is our adult bell choir, for people who can read music and have had some bell experience.  We will play at least once a month for church and will also play for holidays and special events during the year.  Our rehearsal time is every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m., in the church. 

Celebration Band & Singers - This group is for people who enjoy praising God in a more contemporary fashion.  We have a Contemporary Service  the second Saturday of every month at 5:30.   The musicians rehearse in the church on that Saturday at 4:00 and the singers join us at 4:30.  The music is lively and uplifting.  All ages are encouraged to participate.

The Carillon Bell Choir - This is a new group for people high school age and older who are interested in learning to play bells.  We welcome beginners who have no musical training at all.  If you can count and keep a beat, you can play in this choir.  Please call me if you are interested.

If you are interested in any of our musical groups or have any suggestions, please do not hesitate to call me at (847) 658-6010 any evening after 6:00.  Let us join together to “Make a Joyful Noise Unto the Lord.”

Yours in Christ,

Valerie

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