1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity

THE MESSENGER
~ A Communication Ministry of Salem United Church of Christ ~
April 2015
Volume 61, Issue 4
We are God’s children called to seek, share, teach, and continue to experience the Word of God.
Townspeople are talking amongst themselves, “Did you ever kill a giant?” Mickey opens the shutters of his
tailor’s shop and shouts, “I killed seven of them with just one blow!” Of course, Mickey is referring to flies but
the townspeople misunderstand and run to tell the king of the mighty giant killer.1 This cartoon has stuck with
me ever since I saw it as a young child. It reminded me of how language can easily be misinterpreted or taken
out of context. Another example is the movie, Unforgiven. This movie deals with how complicated truths are
distorted into simplistic myths. Another word for these distortions is exaggeration.
A more familiar form of exaggeration is to ask a fisherman how big was the fish that got away. However, we
must understand that exaggeration is not always a bad thing. Exaggeration can be used to get a point across
or draw attention to the subject being discussed. For instance, in Matthew 19:24 we hear Jesus saying: “Again
I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom
of God." One could argue that Jesus is saying all things are possible with God. However, what if that was not
Jesus’ intention? Maybe He said exactly what He wanted to say and used exaggeration to get His point across
about how the love of money would prevent someone from entering the kingdom of God.
Look at Luke 11:11-12: “Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead
of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion?” Again, Jesus uses exaggeration to talk about
God’s willingness to give us what we need. Let’s be clear about exaggeration and note the difference between
an exaggeration and a lie. Exaggeration has at least a kernel of truth to it; a lie does not. Some may claim
that is a distinction without a difference. In the examples of Jesus’ use of exaggerations, ask yourself: “Did
Jesus lie?” Of course not! However, Jesus, who was a master of language, used parables, allegories, and
exaggerations to tell people about the great love God has for His people and for the kingdom of God.
Blessings,
Pastor Jerry
_________________________________________________________________
1
The Brave Little Tailor – Mickey Mouse in Living Color, 1938
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PASSION WEEK & EASTER SUNDAY SCHEDULE:
SCHEDULE:
*Sunday, March 29:
8:45 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
Palm/Confirmation Sunday
Salem Seekers (Sunday School)
Worship
*Thursday, April 2:
7:00 p.m.
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday Worship with Altar Communion
*Friday, April 3:
7:00 p.m.
Good Friday
Good Friday Worship
*Saturday, April 4:
10:00 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt
Easter Egg Hunt with Donuts, Muffins, & Fruit to Follow
*Sunday, April 5:
6:30 a.m.
7:00 – 7:45 a.m.
8:00 a.m.
9:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Easter Sunday
Sunrise Service
Easter Breakfast
Worship with Pew Communion
Easter Breakfast
No Salem Seekers (Sunday School)
Worship with Altar Communion
10:00 a.m.
“Eating Right”
Right”
(Suggested Readings: Isaiah 55 & John 4:1-38)
Our cat is spoiled. He frequently refuses the food I put in his bowl; knowing with his persistence, he will be
given another option. Should we as Christians be choosy? God's Word invites us to be content with what we
have. This contentment should apply to the worldly things God knows we need. In that regard, we should not
be choosy. In the Exodus story, God was displeased with Israel’s attitude towards manna (bread from
heaven).
Yet, there is an area where it is right for us to be extremely demanding regarding our choice. That which we
take into our souls should be highly scrutinized and should only be allowed in if it brings us closer to Jesus. If
we wait at a stop sign and the traffic seems endless, we can choose to be impatient. Impatience does not
bring us closer to Jesus. We could use this time instead to lift up a prayer, to focus on something in which to
praise God, or simply trust that Jesus is getting us through.
Much can easily be deemed junk food for our souls: selfishness, bitterness, unforgiveness, envy, arrogance,
and much more. Spiritual junk food obscures our vision of God, distances us from Christ, and perpetuates
hatred towards ourselves and others. If we are careless, we can let one little aggravation be the destructive
catalyst of our day! If we choose to take into our souls only that which brings us closer to Jesus, surely we will
grow closer to Christ each day. In the wonder of God, we always do have a soul healthy choice.
I challenge each of us to examine closely what we take in each day. Jesus reminds us the most precious food
is to do the will of His Father in heaven.
Pastor John
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Monday Morning Reflections With Pastor Jerry
Come join us at Maedge’s on Monday mornings at 10:00 a.m. to have a cup of coffee,
discuss the sermon, read scripture together, and talk about whatever is on your mind.
(Please Note: There will be no Monday Morning Reflections on April 6.)
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EXHALE – YOUTH NEWS
“I watch the ripples change their size but never leave the stream.”
~ David Bowie “Changes”
Change happens. Change happens all of the time, whether we are talking about the weather or change within
our personal lives. There is very little we can do about it. However, we can choose if we take the change in
stride or not. I have found faith is something that changes all of the time. In fact, if our faith isn’t being
questioned, doubted, pushed to its limits, and evolving, then I am not sure we are pushing our faith enough.
Jesus never said, “Follow me because it will be comfortable.”
Many of us, myself included, become stubborn in the evolution of everything. We get to a point where many
aspects of our lives are easy. We become content where we are. We stop pushing ourselves and tell
ourselves “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” or “I(we)’ve always done it that way and it has worked, why change?”
The struggle comes in putting ourselves in new situations and giving ourselves the chance to experience and
grow in ways that we never thought we would. Sometimes, this is a small change, such as volunteering for
something we never thought about or stepping into a position someone has held for a long time. As a church,
we can challenge each other, grow with one another, and put ourselves in a position to change. Whether they
are changes for the better, changes for the worse, or changes to help us grow and evolve, changes help us to
become the best version of ourselves. This happens when we embrace change and challenge one another.
The next time you have the opportunity to change, take it. You do not have to run full sprint into it. Crawl if
you must, but consistently move forward and avoid becoming stale in every aspect of your life.
Love Wins,
Nick Atkins-Harris
Email: [email protected] / Cell: 812-589-1918 / Facebook: ExhaleSalemUCC
Important Dates for Exhale:
April 4:
April 5:
April 12:
April 19:
April 26:
Exhale Hide Easter Eggs @ 9:15 a.m.
No Exhale (Easter Sunday)
Exhale @ 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Exhale @ 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Exhale @ 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Church Council Meeting Summary
March 12, 2015
The following members were present: Pastor Jerry Amiri, Dagmar Annable, Gary Boda, Scott Demkey, Bobby
Frank, Shirley Gall, Ron Mindrup, Dawn Reagan, Ronna Renken, Steve Stille, Tim Stille, and Christopher Uhe.
The meeting was called to order by President Bobby Frank. Pastor Jerry read a selection from The Song of
the Bird (“The Lost Sheep”)—a meditation on one of God’s great gifts: free will.
The Secretary’s Report and Treasurer’s Report were approved.
Committee Reports were presented with the following highlights:
Mission/Stewardship: Salem may have as many as 10 members participating in the Ecuador
Mission Trip.
Property: The water fountain in the Educational Building has been removed. The committee will
look into a replacement.
Pastor’s Report: The Church Council reviewed the church cancellation policy & procedures and looked into
ways to better communicate church activities and worship cancellations.
Meeting closed by reciting the Lord’s Prayer. The next Church Council meeting will be on April 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Note: The approved minutes of all Church Council meetings are available in the church office.
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Salem’s Procedures For Church Cancellations
Due to extreme weather, church was recently cancelled, which has raised the issue on how to give the
congregation sufficient notice regarding church cancellations. The Salem staff, the Evangelism/Worship
Committee, and the Church Council have collaborated and agreed on the following procedures regarding
church cancellations:
1. During the week, if Highland School District cancels school, all activities at Salem Church also will
be cancelled.
2. Decision to cancel the Sunday worship service will be made by 6:00 a.m. by the Senior Pastor.
3. Salem Church has registered with Fox2News, KMOV, and KSDK to be able to post church
cancellations.
4. Announcements of church cancellations will be aired on the radio station WSMI.
5. The Salem phone message will be updated, enabling calls to the church phone number to be able
to check on church cancellations.
6. Salem will offer members the option of signing up for a phone tree in the event of Salem church
cancellations. Please contact the church office if you would like to have your name placed on this
phone tree.
7. Salem Wire will be sent by the Office Coordinator. If the Office Coordinator is unavailable, then the
Salem Wire will be sent by either the Senior Pastor or Youth Director.
Our hope is that with these new procedures in place, every member of the congregation will have sufficient
notification of church cancellations.
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Salem UCC Scholarship
Deadline: Friday,
Friday, May 1, 2015
2015
Salem UCC scholarship applications may be picked up
in the church office or on the table outside the church office.
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The Illinois South Conference & DuBois Center present:
50 Years of Faith & Fun on May 3, 2015, at the Gateway Grizzlies Stadium
Here’s the pitch!
Join the family and friends of the Illinois South Conference & DuBois Center
For a day of celebration filled with fun!!!
There will be the following:
Homerun Derby
Kickball Tournament
Bag Toss
Horseshoes
Gaga Pit
Washers
Bocce Ball
9-Square in the Air
Bounce House
Tricycle Races
Historical Revue
Music
Concession Food
Available
T-Shirts
Duck Pond
Advance cost is $5.00 per person or $10.00 per family (Ticket price includes games, not food & drinks.)
Go to www.iscucc.org to register online or go to the church office to purchase your advance tickets.
Salem UCC Treasurer's Report
(Month Ending 02/28/2015)
GENERAL FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Offering – Loose
Offering – Envelopes
Facility Use Donations
Miscellaneous Receipts
Interest Income – General Fund
Benevolence Received
Total General Fund Income
Salaries
Employee Benefits
Maintenance/Property Services
Utilities
Supplies – General
Professional Expense
Miscellaneous
Worship
Christian Education
Benevolence Paid
Total General Fund Expenses
GENERAL FUND ENDING BALANCE
MEMORIAL FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Memorials Received
Memorial Fund Expense:
Worship – Music & Visual
Postage
MEMORIAL FUND ENDING BALANCE
Current Activity
19,744.49
6,838.00
10,272.00
0.00
37.50
2.90
413.00
17,563.40
YTD Activity
12,521.25
13,119.00
19,215.00
50.00
1,156.03
4.88
4,784.00
38,328.91
9,576.18
2,032.31
1,581.86
1,997.29
812.63
228.30
20.00
31.99
187.31
3,524.00
19,991.87
17,316.02
18,480.26
2,466.09
2,812.66
3,992.33
1,521.63
316.30
20.00
91.99
308.88
3,524.00
33,534.14
17,316.02
$
$
73,860.94
100.00
73,860.94
100.00
$
791.62
147.00
73,022.32
$
791.62
147.00
73,022.32
BUILDING FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Building Fund Offering
BUILDING FUND ENDING BALANCE
$
8,880.65
285.00
9,165.65
$
8,580.65
585.00
9,165.65
SABBATICAL FUND BALANCE
$
11,896.12
$
11,896.12
(No Activity)
ENDOWMENT FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Endowment Fund Disbursements:
Interest Distribution – General Fund
Interest Distribution – Benevolence
ENDOWMENT FUND ENDING BALANCE
INVESTMENT FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Change in Market Value
INVESTMENT FUND ENDING BALANCE
MISSION MATCHING FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Change in Market Value
Mission Fund Disbursements:
Mission Match Paid
MISSION MATCHING FUND ENDING BALANCE
RESERVE FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Interest Income – Reserve Fund
RESERVE FUND ENDING BALANCE
OTHER RESTRICTED FUND BEGINNING BALANCE
Other Restricted Expense:
Grant Expense – 2014 Literacy Grant
OTHER RESTRICTED FUND ENDING BALANCE
59,509.77
61,748.28
$
59,509.77
$
1,118.53
1,119.98
59,509.77
$
183,430.74
8,188.73
191,619.47
$
189,646.93
1,972.54
191,619.47
122,287.99
5,073.79
$
127,361.78
$
15,117.13
13.46
15,130.59
127,751.87
3,133.91
$
3,524.00
127,361.78
$
15,102.56
28.03
15,130.59
2,523.76
$
253.27
2,270.49
2,623.93
$
353.44
2,270.49
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Ecuador Mission Trip: It’s Not Too Late!!!
We are planning a Region 5 mission trip to Tosagua, which is on the coast of Ecuador, June 20-29, 2015. The
build site is located about 60 miles from the Pacific Ocean, southeast of Manta. We will be building a masonry
and block home in the Manabi province in Ecuador. No experience is required, just a valid passport.
There is still time to sign up to go to Ecuador! The $100.00 deposit is due by April 15.
If you have any questions regarding the mission trip, please contact Laura Muench or Pastor Jerry.
Did You Know?
The colors of green, purple, white, and red used for the altar, pulpit, and lectern were
questions for February and March. Do you know the remaining color and when it is used?
The color black symbolizes mourning and is used on Ash Wednesday,
Good Friday, Totenfest Sunday, and during funerals held at Salem.
Salem Seekers
“Rebekah”
April 5
April 12
Gathering Room
God’s Oasis
(Puppets)
Gathering Room
(Media)
No
Sunday
School
Faith Island
(Games)
Scribe’s Den
(Science)
Happy
Easter!!!
Gathering Room
April 19
April 25
May 3
Opening
Opening
Opening
Opening
8:45 – 9:05 a.m.
8:45 – 9:05 a.m.
8:45 – 9:05 a.m.
8:45 – 9:05 a.m.
Pre-K & K
1st & 2nd
3rd & 4th
5th & 6th
1st & 2nd
Pre-K & K
5th & 6th
3rd & 4th
3rd & 4th
5th & 6th
Pre-K & K
1st & 2nd
5th & 6th
3rd & 4th
1st & 2nd
Pre-K & K
Closing
Closing
Closing
Closing
9:40 – 9:50 a.m.
9:40 – 9:50 a.m.
9:40 – 9:50 a.m.
9:40 – 9:50 a.m.
All children will start in the Gathering Room at 8:45 a.m.
After the opening gathering, the children will be led to their specific workshop by their shepherds.
Please pick up your child in the Gathering Room at 9:50 a.m.
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Faithful Attendance
Winter Quarter (December 2014 – February 2015)
(Total of 30 Students & Teachers*)
Toddler
Danielle Gorenz
Tenley Henkhaus
Emily Uhe*
1st & 2nd
Teyton Henkhaus
Tammy Burton*
Denise Grandame*
Pre-K & K
Paige Basler*
Dawn Reinhardt*
3rd & 4th
Blake Ernst
5th & 6th
Sydney Basler
Tessa Renken
Connie Duncan*
Richelle Ernst*
7th
Justin Bonnell*
Melanie Bonnell*
Anna Brase
Ian Grandame
8th
Taylor Ernst
Irving Gray*
Jim Reagan*
Youth &
Young Adults
Donal Reagan
Laura Muench*
Adults
Anita Cain
Shirley Collmann
Ken Gehrig
Pastor John Mindrup*
Dawn Reagan
Ron Schmidt
Rhonda Schmidt
Jeff Warnke
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Save
Save The Date: Vacation Bible School
June 7 – 11, 2015
2015 @ 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
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~ Kids For Christ (KFC) ~
Kids For Christ and Exhale went roller skating at the YMCA of Edwardsville Meyer Center on
Sunday, March 8, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. We had 21 KFC children, 14 Exhale from Salem
UCC, 14 Exhale from Staunton, and 11 adults who really enjoyed roller skating that afternoon.
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Save the Date for the Easter Egg Hunt!!!
Mark your calendar for the 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt!!! The 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt will
be at Salem UCC rain or shine on Saturday, April 4, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. All youth from
newborns to those in the 5th grade are invited to come hunt for eggs! The youth will search for
eggs in age appropriate groups. We will have donuts, muffins, and fruit afterwards. Please
bring an item for the food pantry to be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a special
prize! Hope to see you there!
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Your Help Is Needed to Fill the Easter Eggs!!!
We need your help with filling the Easter eggs. Plastic Easter eggs will be available soon on the table
in the Educational Building. Please pick some up and fill them up with Easter goodies and return
them by Friday, April 3. Suggested items to fill the eggs are individual wrapped candy, mini bottles of
bubbles, stickers, coins, and any other Easter goodies. We appreciate your support!!!
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~ 2015
2015 Confirmation ~
Confirmation will be on
Palm Sunday, March 29, 2015, at 10:00 a.m.
This year’s Confirmands are:
Taylor Ernst, Lexi Gibbons, Tori Lynn, Wyatt Reckman,
Austin Reinhardt, Catlyn Thomas, & Cameron Verson
They will take their first communion at the
Maundy Thursday Worship Service on April 2, 2015, at 7:00 p.m.
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Easter Breakfast
Please join us for breakfast on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015. Serving will begin in the Parish Hall following the
6:30 a.m. Sunrise worship and will continue until 7:45 a.m. The breakfast will open again at 9:00 a.m. and will
continue until 9:45 a.m. The menu will include breakfast casseroles, breakfast pastries, fresh fruit, juice, milk,
and coffee. Please sign up outside the church office or in the passageway if you plan to bring a breakfast
casserole or pastry dish to share.
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Easter Special Offering
Uni-Pres Kindercottage kicked off a Capital Campaign to allow them to own their building, begin critical building
upgrades in the form of new kitchen appliances and storage, new playground equipment, a modern security
system, and a covered entryway, and provide a fund that would allow them to deal with the sporadic support
from the debt-ridden State of Illinois and ensure that they can always continue to serve children in need.
Please consider a donation to this effort at Easter by using the special envelope in your boxed set or one of
your own with a designation to Kindercottage.
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~ MISSION FEST SUNDAY ~
On Sunday, May 3, in observance of Mission Fest, Chris Cox from Hoyleton will share information and give us
an update about the ministry of Hoyleton.
Hoyleton Ministries seeks to enable all people, young and old alike, to realize the wholeness of life that God
intends. This will be accomplished with the compassion of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit
reaching out to meet the physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and social needs of those with whom we
journey.
A potluck luncheon will immediately follow worship. Please bring a side dish and/or a dessert to share for the
potluck luncheon. Meat will be provided by the Men’s Fellowship.
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From The Men’s Fellowship & Women’s Guild
Next Meeting of the Men’s Fellowship & Women’s Guild:
Thursday, April 16, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. Pastor John Mindrup will have the devotion.
Family Night:
Family Night was on Saturday, March 21. Everyone enjoyed a wonderful meal catered by Sundae Best and
fun, musical entertainment provided by Chris Talley Trio. Thank you to all who came!!!
April Golden Agers Are:
Bob Mindrup on April 13 & Elinor Stille on April 19
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Looking For All Graduates…
If you are or know someone who is graduating from high school, college, trade school, or graduate school this
year, please contact the church office at 488-3215 or [email protected] by Sunday, May 3.
The church office also would like a picture of graduate and a short paragraph on graduate consisting of full
name (including middle), name of parents, name of school graduating from, date of graduation (at least month
and year), if from college the degree graduating with, and future plans such as further education or career. If
you have any questions, please contact Jenn Henschen in the church office. Thank you.
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From The Madison County Health Department
Department
Salem UCC has been notified by the Madison County Health Department by phone that an individual who
attended Salem UCC on Sunday, February 15, 2015, for a baptism has been identified as a confirmed case of
pertussis (whooping cough).
The Madison County Health Department also sent Salem a notification letter. This letter is posted on the
bulletin board in the passageway or you may contact the church office if you’d like a copy of the letter.
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Thank You Notes Received By:
Emmaus Homes for $170.00 donation received given by Salem UCC
Global Ministries Child Sponsorship for $417.00 donation received given by Salem UCC
Hitz Memorial Home for $417.00 donation received given by Salem UCC
Hoyleton Ministries for $417.00 and $559.99 donation received given by Salem UCC
Uni-Press Kindercottage for $417.00 donation received given by Salem UCC
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Thank you to Rick Allen and Laverne Korsmeyer for all the snow removal from the church parking lots.
~ Property Committee
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A Letter From
Rev. Dr. Sheldon Culver,
Conference Minister
February 23, 2015
Sisters and Brothers in Christ:
I write this morning to announce my decision to retire from conference ministry this year. I will celebrate my
67th birthday in July, and will complete eight years of service as Conference Minister with the Illinois South
Conference in early September. I have thoroughly enjoyed these years with you, and look forward to many
opportunities to express my gratitude for our time together, both individually, and in congregational and
conference gatherings, as we journey through the months ahead.
The Executive Committee of the Conference Council has discussed this decision with me, and we have agreed
to celebrate our time together and say "Farewell" during the Annual Meeting at the end of October. The
Executive Committee is beginning to work with consultants, and along with the Conference Council, will be
developing the plan for this season of transition. We are blessed to have strong and faithful leaders in this
Conference, and further blessed with a terrific, hard-working staff. You can trust that they will lead and serve
the Conference most effectively during the years ahead. I will be working closely with them.
I will continue to provide you with the full services of this office, working with congregations in transition, with
churches seeking training and resources, with pastors who look for consultation, and with the committees and
teams of the Conference that I have staffed over the past eight years.
As part of my ministry with Illinois South Conference, I am assigned to serve on boards and committees of the
wider church. I will continue to serve in these settings until my terms are fulfilled or my ministry with Illinois
South is accomplished.
As always, I hold you in my prayers. You are the best, and it is hard to imagine stepping away from this
amazing ministry, but the time to move toward retirement has arrived. As our Conference celebrates 50 years
of ministry in the communities of Southern Illinois, I look forward to recalling and sharing the stories of God at
work in our midst. I am confident that the Spirit which calls us to be the hands and feet of Christ will nurture us
into still more amazing mission opportunities. There is still much work to be done, still much love to be shared,
still many lives that will be transformed. God is still speaking to, in, and through us.
Blessings,
Sheldon W. Culver,
Conference Minister
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~ 2015
2015 Easter Flowers ~
Hyacinth in honor of Tori Lynn & Austin Reinhardt by Steve, Kris, & Jordan Lynn.
Hyacinth in honor of Grandpa Dale & Grandma Gail by Kylie & Koy Ketcham.
Hyacinth in memory of Ted Henkhaus by Kerry, Jessie, Kylie, & Koy Ketcham.
Tulip in honor of Austin Reinhardt by Grandma & Grandpa Yates.
Hyacinth in honor of Victoria Lynn by Grandma & Grandpa Yates.
Tulip in memory of Henry & Louise Schuette by Don & Donna Yates.
Hyacinth in honor of Wyatt Reckman by Bill & Carol Reckman.
Tulip in memory of loved ones by Bill & Carol Reckman.
Tulip in honor of Ryan & Val Driscoll by Mike & Doris Driscoll.
Easter Lily in honor of Velma Henkhaus by Mike & Doris Driscoll.
Hyacinth in memory of loved ones by Mike & Doris Driscoll.
Easter Lily in memory of Ted Henkhaus by his family.
Tulip in honor of Karen Landolt by the Thornton Family.
Tulip in honor of the Thornton Family by Mike & Doris Driscoll.
Tulip in memory of Jim Collmann by Shirley Collmann & family.
Tulip in memory of Ted Henkhaus by Teyton & Tenley Henkhaus.
Hyacinth in memory of loved ones by the Larry Kaufman Family.
Tulip in memory of Judy Ohren by Haley, Sydney, and Barbara.
Tulip in memory of Delmar Blom by Wilma Blom & family.
Tulip in memory of loved ones by Wayne & Alice Stille.
Tulip in honor of Hailey Quade by Grandma & Grandpa Heidbrink.
Hyacinth in honor of James Quade by Grandma & Grandpa Heidbrink.
Tulip in honor of Sheldon Quade by Grandma & Grandpa Heidbrink.
Easter Lily in memory of loved ones by Ken & Ginger Gehrig.
Hyacinth in memory of loved ones by Vernon & Judy Blom.
Hyacinth in memory of Dexter Riechmann by Dave & Jerri Riechmann.
Tulip in memory of Joyce Riechmann by the Dave Riechmann Family.
Easter Lily in memory of Denny Harris by his family.
Easter Lily in memory of Dennis & Charlene Harris by their family.
Tulip in memory of loved ones by Edith Kaufman.
Tulip in memory of Denny Harris by Barbara Meguire.
Tulip in memory of Perry Knackstedt by Lewis & Lorene Knackstedt.
Tulip in memory of Hannah & Nicole Knackstedt by Lewis & Lorene Knackstedt.
Hyacinth in memory of Elda Schmidt by Ron & Rhonda Schmidt & family.
Hyacinth in memory of Karen Geschwend by Ron & Rhonda Schmidt.
Hyacinth in memory of Don Beshears & loved ones by the Beshears Family.
Hyacinth in memory of Kate Hoke by Joe, Sarah, & Caroline Kate Bolyard.
Tulip in memory of Ila Harrison by Joe, Sarah, & Caroline Kate Bolyard.
Hyacinth in memory of loved ones by Donna Merkle & family.
Tulip in memory of Don Merkle by his grandchildren Danielle, Bianca, & Darren.
Hyacinth in memory of Rosemary Schreier by the Reagan Family.
Tulip in memory of loved ones by Roger & Janelle Reilson.
Easter Lily in honor of Elmer & Joan Frank by Brett, Wanda, Tyson, & Wade.
Hyacinth in honor of Donna Bruhn by Brett, Wanda, Tyson, & Wade.
Tulip in memory of Norman Bruhn by Brett, Wanda, Tyson, & Wade.
Tulip in memory of loved ones by Vernon Otto.
Tulip in memory of Danny Lee Reinhardt by Dan, Mary, Russell, & Amanda Reinhardt.
Easter Lily in honor of our grandchildren Reese, Will, Lauren, & Elyza by Ron & Gale Bolen.
Hyacinth in honor of our grandchildren Reese, Will, Lauren, & Elyza by Ron & Gale Bolen.
Easter Lily in memory of loved ones by Greg, Paige, Haley, & Sydney Basler.
Hyacinth in honor of Logan Schlechte by Grandpa & Grandma Schlechte.
Hyacinth in honor of our grandchildren Gracyn, Liam, & Logan by Grandpa & Grandma Schlechte.
Hyacinth in memory of our dear Danny by Marilyn & Laverne Korsmeyer.
Easter Lily in memory of our dear Uncle Danny by Jayne, Steve, Dean, Sherri, Addison, Amanda, Melanie, & Justin.
Hyacinth in memory of Sonny Cain, Howard & Bonnie Cain, and Fern & Vern Johnson by Anita K. Johnson Cain.
Hyacinth in honor of Melanie & Jim Tillerson, Angel, Jordan, Michaela, and Amaya by Anita K. Cain/Grandma A.K.
Tulip in honor of Nathan, Timothy, Joseph, Lukas, Elizabeth, Elijah, & Eva by Rev. Jerry & Carol Amiri.
Tulip in memory of Harold, Evelyn, & Nancy Krueger and Frieda Amiri by Rev. Jerry & Carol Amiri.
Hyacinth in memory of Edwin & Lydia Reckmann and Wm. & Clara Koenig by Lorman Reckmann & family.
Hyacinth in memory of Karol Reckmann, Kevin Reckmann, and Danny Reckmann by Lorman Reckmann & family.
Tulip in memory of Grandpa Uhe & Grandpa Gueldener by Leon, Patty, Emily, Christopher, & Aaron Uhe.
Tulip in honor of Grandma Uhe & Grandma Gueldener by Leon, Patty, Emily, Christopher, & Aaron Uhe.
Hyacinth in honor of Katie Milford by Emily Uhe.
Easter Lily in memory of M. Elaine Suhre by Kenneth Suhre.
Easter Lily in memory of George & Edna Suhre by Kenneth Suhre.
Tulip in memory of James & Mary Tice by Kenneth Surhre.
Tulip in memory of Marvin Stille, Earl Hall, & Mary Lou Hall by Elinor Stille & family.
Worship
Worship Ministry Schedule
Date
Apr. 2
(7pm)
Acolytes
_________
Greeter(s)
Shirley Collmann
Apr.3
(7pm)
_________
Apr. 5
(8am)
Apr. 5
(10am)
Shayden Hogg
Syler Hogg
Riley Mansholt
Bradey McKinley
Apr. 12
(10am)
Taylor Ernst
Tori Lynn
Apr. 19 Wyatt Reckman
(10am) Cameron Verson
Apr. 26
(10am)
Lexi Gibbons
Catlyn Thomas
Liturgist
______
Recorder
Patti
Reckmann
Ushers
Gale Bolen / Richelle Braundmeier
Cindy Henschen / Susi Miller
Kathy Porter
Shirley Collmann
______
Patti
Gale Bolen / Richelle Braundmeier
Reckmann
Cindy Henschen / Susi Miller
Kathy Porter
Jim Annable
Lewis
Joe
Larry & Lorna McGee
Bolyard
Alice Stille / Jeff Warnke
Knackstedt
Joe
Bill & Carol Reckman
Jeff Warnke
Marilyn
Korsmeyer
Bolyard
Laura Renken / Tessa Renken
Dave & Ronna Renken
Ken Gehrig
Laverne
Ron
Scott Demkey / Brett Henschen
Korsmeyer
Mindrup
Jessie Ketcham / Krista Mansholt
Lisa Uhe
Ron
Paige Basler / Judy Blom
Alice Stille
Laura
Muench
Mindrup
Justin Bonnell / Laura Muench
Laverne Korsmeyer
Patti
Elinor Stille
Kathy
Amy Henschen / Gena Hodapp
Porter
Reckmann /
Susi Miller
Larry McGee
Chad & Tara Schuster
Nursery Schedule
April 5
April 12
April 19
April 26
Amanda Brase
Jennifer Hunsche
Sarah Bolyard
Tiffany Gillison
Heather Luitjohan
Laura Renken
Richelle Ernst
Jill Verson
Worship Schedule
Date
Scripture Readings
Sermon Title
Pastor
April 2 – 7 p.m.
Exodus 12:1-14
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
IHS – In His Service
Rev. Jerry Amiri
Tenebrae Service
Rev. Jerry Amiri
Entertaining Angels
Rev. Jerry Amiri
Everybody Gets a Jesus
Rev. Jerry Amiri
Everybody Gets a Jesus
Rev. Jerry Amiri
Fullness of Joy
Pastor John Mindrup
Ghostbusters
Rev. Jerry Amiri
Love with Action and Truth
Rev. Jerry Amiri
Maundy Thursday Worship
with Communion
April 3 – 7 p.m.
Good Friday Worship
April 5 – 6:30 a.m.
Easter Sunrise Worship
April 5 – 8 a.m.
Easter Worship with Communion
April 5 – 10 a.m.
Easter Worship with Communion
April 12 – 10 a.m.
Worship
April 19 – 10 a.m.
Worship
April 26 – 10 a.m.
Praise Worship
John 20:1-8
Acts 10:34-43
Mark 16:1-8
Acts 10:34-43
Mark 16:1-8
1 John 1:1-2:2
John 20:19-31
1 John 3:1-7
Luke 24:36b-48
1 John 3:16-24
John 10:11-18
Communion Schedule
Schedule for Hitz Home
April 5 – 10 a.m.
Ron & Rhonda Schmidt
If you are sad or struggling inside, do not suffer alone. Ask for help. We
have a team of Stephen Ministers who are ready to listen, care, encourage,
pray, and help you through a tough time. (It is confidential too!) Find out
more about Stephen Ministry by talking with one of our Stephen Leaders
listed below. Our Stephen Ministers are there to care!
Rev. Jerry Amiri: (O) 618-488-3215 / (C) 636-328-3332
Pastor John Mindrup: (C) 618-409-3941/ Betty Imboden: (C) 618-973-0572
Prayer List
April Anniversaries
Cancer Concerns:
Wayne Gentry / Richard Bunte / Sam Merkel
Health Concerns:
Quintin Byrne (Cousin of Lisa Reinhardt)
Vickie Conrad / Diana Donohoo
Katie Ferch (Daughter of Pastor Jerry & Carol Amiri) / Jack Frandsen
Morgan Hackethal / Carolyn Hackethal
Thomas Kinnett / Marie Mindrup
Vernon Mindrup / Fred Monk (Son-in-Law of Bob Mindrup)
Melvin Roberts / Carol Ruehrup
Alhambra Care Center:
Velma Henkhaus
Eden Village:
Hilbert & Verna Klenke
Lawrence & Hilda Ramach
04/01/2005
04/07/2007
04/08/1973
04/09/1994
04/12/2003
04/15/1972
04/16/1977
04/22/1983
04/22/1994
04/24/1949
04/24/1965
04/27/2012
Jeff & Alicia McGee
Adam & Megan Mollet
Mike & Mary Stumpf
Jeff & Julia Hobbs
Dan & Casey Cornejo
Ron & Janet Hunsche
Ron & Rhonda Schmidt
Doug & Nancy Heidbrink
Mitch & Sharyn Gieseking
Hilbert & Verna Klenke
Tom & Marjorie Glassmaker
Craig & Courtney Wright
The Baptism of Logan Stanley Schlechte
Logan Stanley Schlechte was baptized at Salem
UCC on March 22, 2015, by Rev. Jerry Amiri. Logan
was born on January 14, 2015, to Zach & Erika
Schlechte. Logan is the younger brother of Liam
Schlechte.
His grandparents are Jed & Brenda
Schlechte and Stanley & Jean Rovey. His greatgrandparents are Betty Lucas, Wilma Sander, Helen
Beshears, and Harry & Donna Schlechte.
His
godparents are Mollie Bergmann and Seth Schlechte.
Faith Countryside Homes/Apartments:
Dorothy Knabel
Highland Home:
Anita Suhre
Hitz Memorial Home:
Orlean Hosto / Electa Leitch / Herb Schmidt
Legacy Place:
Al & Betty Volz
A Birth in Our Church Family…
Family…
Our Servicemen & Servicewomen:
Lt. Col. Derek Bright / Thomas Eyman
Airman Dustin Garner / Jason Schlechte
Kenny Randle / Jared Thiems / Kyle Thornton
Morgan Elizabeth Hackethal was born on Thursday,
March 19, 2015, at 12:56 p.m. to Michael & Carolyn
Hackethal. Morgan weighed 7 pounds & 7 ounces,
and she was 19 inches long. Morgan’s proud older
siblings are Catlyn Thomas and Jordan Briggs.
Our Sympathies to the Family of:
Msgt. Earl Harry Schuerman
(Husband of Virginia Schuerman)
Who died on February 19, 2015.
Salem Welcomes
Welcomes New Members!!!
Joan Frank & Judy Zimmerman
joined Salem UCC on Sunday, March 22, 2015.
April Birthdays
April 1
Donal Reagan
April 2
Donna Miller
Chad Schuster
April 3
Steve Stille
Larry Bloemker
Tyler Reinhardt
April 4
Justin Stumpf
April 5
Ginny Gehrig
Rick Porter Sr.
Michael Dauderman
April 6
Alexander Dugan
April 7
Sarah Randle
April 8
Andy Miller
April 9
Brian Suhre
Heath Follwell
April 10
Ron Mindrup
Jessica Mills
Derek Ahlmeyer
April 11
Erin Brown
April 12
Linda Korsmeyer
Jim Annable
Barry Quade
Caroline Bolyard
April 19
Elinor Stille
Colby Hosto
April 13
Bob Mindrup
James Burton
April 20
Steve Lynn
Logan Duffin
April 14
Keith Greear
Kieran Mettler
Bethany Reckmann
Riley Mansholt
April 21
LaDonna Karpan
Casey Cornejo
Destiny Odle
April 17
Maxine Wernle
Eugene Froman
April 18
Joe Reinhardt
Richard Harper
April 22
Kevin Brink
Sarah Doubet
April 23
Jenna Boxell
April 24
June Lienemann
Matt Collmann
April 25
Joseph Whitworth
Lacey Buzick
April 26
Collin Reckman
Joseph Sanders
April 27
Jean Wirz
April 28
David Poggemoeller
April 29
Peter Babic
Jeremy Schmidt
Bianca Valsecchi
April Calendar
Wednesday
Apr. 1
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Apr. 2
Apr. 3
Apr. 4
Sunday
Apr. 5
6:00pm
6:30pm
7:30pm
7:00pm
7:00pm
9:15am
10:00am
6:30am
7:00-7:45am
8:00am
9:00-9:45am
10:00am
Monday
Apr. 6
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Sunday
Apr. 7
Apr. 8
Apr. 9
Apr. 12
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Apr. 13
Apr. 14
Apr. 15
Thursday
Sunday
Apr. 16
Apr. 19
Monday
Wednesday
Apr. 20
Apr. 22
Sunday
Apr. 26
Monday
Wednesday
Apr. 27
Apr. 29
7:00pm
7:00pm
6:30pm
7:00pm
8:45am
10:00am
4:00-5:30pm
10:00am
1:00pm
9:00am
6:00pm
6:30pm
7:30pm
7:00pm
8:45am
10:00am
4:00-5:30pm
10:00am
6:00pm
6:30pm
7:30pm
8:45am
10:00am
4:00-5:30pm
10:00am
6:00pm
6:30pm
7:30pm
Salem Chimes
Salem Ringers
Salem Chancel Choir
Maundy Thursday Worship with Altar Communion
Good Friday Worship
Exhale Youth Hide Easter Eggs
Easter Egg Hunt with Donuts, Muffins, & Fruit
Sunrise Worship
Easter Breakfast
Easter Worship with Pew Communion
No Salem Seekers
Easter Breakfast
Easter Worship with Altar Communion
Food Collection for Local Food Pantries
No Exhale
No Monday Morning Reflections at Maedge’s
BOCE Meeting
Property Committee Meeting
Evangelism/Worship Committee Meeting
No Bells or Choirs
Church Council Meeting
Salem Seekers
Worship
Exhale
Monday Morning Reflections at Maedge’s
Senior Citizens
May Messenger Articles Due
Salem Chimes
Salem Ringers
Salem Chancel Choir
Guild & Brotherhood Meeting
Salem Seekers
Worship
Historical Committee Meeting after Worship
Exhale
Monday Morning Reflections at Maedge’s
Salem Chimes
Salem Ringers
Salem Chancel Choir
Salem Seekers
Praise Worship
Exhale
Monday Morning Reflections at Maedge’s
Salem Chimes
Salem Ringers
Salem Chancel Choir
The Pastor/Parish/Personnel Relations Committee
The Pastor/Parish/Personnel Relations Committee (PPPRC) is always ready to
hear ideas and suggestions. 2015 PPPRC members are: Dennis Conrad, Krista
Mansholt, Kathy Porter, Ken Suhre, Linda Uhe, and Lisa Uhe.
The Salem Wire
There is a lot that happens from Sunday to Sunday—deaths, births, weddings,
etc. Wouldn’t it be nice to know these things sooner than later? The Salem Wire
is an email message delivery system where you would receive notice of events
and happenings in the church. To sign up for the Salem Wire, please email the
church office at [email protected].
The Salem E-Messenger
Would you rather receive The Messenger by email? The Salem E-Messenger is
a delivery system where you would receive The Messenger and all committee
meeting minutes by email instead of regular mail. To sign up for the Salem EMessenger, please email the church office at [email protected].
2015 SALEM CHURCH COUNCIL:
President Bobby Frank
Vice-President Gary Boda
Secretary Donita Prott
Treasurer Scott Demkey
Financial Secretary Dawn Reagan
Dagmar Annable
Shirley Gall
Ron Mindrup
Ronna Renken
Steve Stille
Tim Stille
Christopher Uhe
Pastor Jerry’s Office Hours:
Tuesday – Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
(Available for Walk-Ins and Appointments)
Youth Director’s Office Hours:
Tuesday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Office Coordinator’s Office Hours:
Tuesday – Thursday: 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Salem United Church of Christ
1117 West North Street
Alhambra, Illinois 62001
Phone: 618-488-3215
Fax: 618-488-3212
NON-PROFIT ORG.
BULK RATE
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
ALHAMBRA, IL
PERMIT NO. 2
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Rev. Jerry Amiri, Senior Pastor
Pastor John Mindrup, Assistant Pastor
Rev. Arnold A. Bizer, Pastor Emeritus
Nick Atkins-Harris, Youth Director
Jennifer Henschen, Office Coordinator
Dawn Reinhardt, Music Director
Patti Reckmann, Custodian
THE MESSENGER
~ A Communication Ministry of Salem United Church of Christ ~
Church’s Email: [email protected]
Pastor’s Email: [email protected]
Web Address: www.salemuccalh.org
Would You Like
Home Communion or a Visit
From Pastor Jerry?
If you would like or know of someone who would like
home communion or a visit from Pastor Jerry
in your home for conversation and prayer,
please contact him to schedule a time.
Church – 618-488-3215 / Cell – 636-328-3332
Email – [email protected]
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