The Gloria dei Gazette OCTOBER 2014 “Excited about God and doing His work” Pastor’s Pen ···············································Pages 2-3 Upcoming Events at Gloria Dei ··························· Page 3 Council Notes and Sanctuary Renovation ····· Pages 4-5, 9 Preparing for Worship ·································· Pages 6-7 Ministry Opportunities ······································· Page 8 Calendar ··············································· Pages 10-11 Outreach Opportunities ····························· Pages 12-13 Choir Practice and Bible Study ························· Page 14 Youth Sunday School ····································· Page 15 Upcoming Youth Events and Luther’s Seal ········· Page 16 Celebrations ················································· Page 17 Prayer List ··················································· Page 18 1 Pastor’s Pen Along with the cooling of fall temperatures comes the cooling of our schedules. The children are back in school, Sunday school classes have resumed in full, choir rehearsals are back on the schedule and attendance is back to normal following our summer vacations. If we have been away, this is the time to “catch up” our offerings and our volunteer commitments to church committees. Have we made the necessary changes to our schedules that put our priorities back in place? October seems to be the perfect time to make this transition in our faith lives. Our church leaders have been leading us with this transition in a helpful way. The finance committee has in place a budget proposal for next year that has already been reviewed by church council. The budget will be in your hands in mid-month in a packet from the stewardship committee. This packet will help us consider growing the congregation through careful planning to use our time and talents for God’s Kingdom. Are there new ministries that you are dreaming about or praying over that we could try at Gloria Dei? What are they? What would you like to see us doing in the name of Jesus Christ? Our lessons in October will focus on the parables of Jesus. The Kingdom of Heaven… will be talked about from many angles so that we might get a better handle on God’s plan for daily life. God’s wisdom is offered regarding: a vineyard, a wedding banquet, paying taxes, and justification. The questions for us come around to issues of priorities-do we truly desire God’s Kingdom to come? Are we ready for his arrival in our hearts and this community? Is there any work we have left undone, that needs our devoted attention? Continued on next page 2 As October comes to a close we find ourselves celebrating the Festival of Reformation. Martin Luther offered up his list of 95 things that needed to change in the church. When and if these 95 statements or thesis were corrected, then the church would be more in line with its governing documents. What resulted was the split of God’s Kingdom and the formation of Protestant churches. The church became reformed-changed forever to celebrate the justification that is ours via the sacrifice and death of the Savior. We need to know that God’s kingdom includes us and by our Baptism, we have that assurance. We want to know if we have been forgiven of our shortcomings, through Holy Communion this promise is ours. Jesus did not die on the cross to reform a church, he died to reform his followers that we might be called and learn to see ourselves as his Saints empowered to continue changing and forgiving the community one person at a time. Let us be busy with God’s work, in October! I look forward to seeing you in church. Pastor John Upcoming Events at Gloria Dei Monday, October 6, the Stewardship Committee will meet at Christine Lent’s house Sunday, October 12, The Rowan County Crop Walk at the City Park beginning at 3 p.m. Registration will begin at 2 p.m. Christian Education Committee will meet at the church at 7 p.m. on Monday, October 20. Saturday, December 13, Soup Meal at 5 p.m. followed by Christmas caroling to nursing home residents and shut-ins. Sunday, December 14, Christmas Dinner at 5 p.m. Turkey will be provided. Please bring a side dish to share. Children’s Christmas play to follow in the sanctuary. 3 Council Notes The congregational council met Sunday, September 14, following the worship service. The devotions were led by Dave Hibbard on forgiveness.. During the devotions, prayer concerns were offered for the people of Africa during the Ebola virus outbreak, Doug and Judy Schenk, Chris Rosario (Carrie Parker’s son) and Dick Lapham. Members present were: Kathy Budny, Jim White, Dick Lapham, Pastor John Tucker, Carrie Parker, David Sides, Carla Mallinson, Christine Lentz, Dave Hibbard, Jan Roseman, and Peggy Mangold. Albert Watson and Judy Schenk were absent. Jim Mallinson, chair of the Finance Committee, was a guest. Minutes from July and August—Minutes from the July and August meetings were reviewed. July’s minutes were passed as is and two amendments were added to the August’s minutes with Jim White making the motion and David Sides seconding the motion. The motions were passed. Treasurer’s Report: The treasurer’s report distributed and reviewed. Motion to accept the report was made by David Sides and Carla Mallinson seconded the motion. The motion was passed. Pastor’s Report: Pastor Tucker distributed and presented his report. Motion to accept his report was made by Dave Hibbard and seconded by Kathy Budny. The motion passed. Committee Reports: Christian Education—Plans are being made to go on a whitewater rafting in October. This had been put on hold at one time time. .Evangelism—No Report. 4 Finance— The Endowment Investment Fund has earned $1,406.31 so far. The Finance Committee requests council to delegate a committee to incorporate the vacant property lot for church activities. This would classify the property functioning as non-profit. Jim Mallinson presented two budget proposals for council to review. The Congregational Council voted unanimously to present the second proposed budget to the congregation to review on October 12. The Stewardship will begin and go for eight weeks. The congregation will vote on the budget in December at the congregational meeting. Property—No report and nothing new on the drains. Social Ministry—The school supply drive went very well. They are focusing on the food drive for Rowan Helping Ministries at this time. The Star Tree for One Church One Child will be offered again this Christmas season. Worship and Music—The council discussed the purchase of choir robes. Jan made a motion to purchase the robes and also add $1,000 to purchase new robes for acolytes. Money to purchase all of the robes will be taken from memorial funds. Old Business—No Old Business. New Business: Pastor Tucker recommended a new member for membership, Mr. Richard (Ricky) Betke. Mr. Betke would like to transfer his membership from his former church in Toledo, Ohio. He has some health issues and would need assistance with transportation to and from church activities. Motion to accept Mr. Betke into membersip was made by Jim White and seconded by Dave Hibbard. Pastor also mentioned another couple who is interested but are still discussing their decision to join. Council Notes continue on page 9 5 Preparing for worship October 5—17th Sunday after Pentecost Holy Communion—World Communion Sunday In today's gospel reading, Jesus tells a parable of the vineyard, an image of Israel, the prophets' mission, and Christ's death. For Christians, the vineyard also speaks of God's love poured out in the blood of Christ, given to us for the forgiveness of sin. Grafted onto Christ the vine at baptism, we are nourished with wine and bread, that we may share Christ's sufferings and know the power of his resurrection. Readings: Isaiah 5:1-7 Psalm 80-7-15 Philippians 3:4b-14 Matthew 21:33-46 Hymns 729 The Church of Christ in Every Age 576 We All are One in Mission 550 On What Has Now Been Sown October 12—18th Sunday after Pentecost In Isaiah we are given a vision of the great feast to come, when God will wipe away death forever. In Jesus' parable about a great banquet, those invited do not come, so the invitation is extended to others. In our liturgy God spreads a table before us. Even amid anxiety and hardship we rejoice in the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. With great joy we feast at the table of the Lord, and we go forth to share the wonderful invitation with others hungering and thirsting for the abundant life of God. Readings: Isaiah 25:6-9 Psalm 23 Philippians 4:1-9 Matthew 22:1-14 Hymns: To Be Announced 6 October 19—19th Sunday after Pentecost Holy Communion When the Pharisees try to trap Jesus, he tells them to give the emperor what belongs to him and to God what belongs to God. To gather for worship reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to God rather than to any earthly authority. Created in the image of God, we offer our entire selves in the service of God and for the sake of the world. Readings: Isaiah 45:1-7 Psalms 96:1-9(10-13) 1Thessalonians 1:1-10 Matthew 22:15-22 Hymns: To be announced October 26 —Reformation Sunday Holy Communion Today, we celebrate the heart of our faith, the gospel of Jesus Christ , that we are free! Readings: Jeremiah 31:31-34 Psalms 46 Romans 3:19-28 John 8:31-36 Readers for October 5 Mark Crossley 12 Albert Watson 19 Jan Roseman 26 Carla Mallinson Altar Guild Julia and Dave Hibbard 7 Ministry opportunities A Ton of Food is our goal for 2014! We are on our way to collecting a TON of food—literally. So far we have donated 1,530 lbs. and collected 96 lbs in September alone. Let’s push on and not only reach our goal, but able to put food on a lot of tables. WELCA WELCA will have a “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” following worship on Sunday, October 19 in the fellowship building. Peggy Mangold and Juanita House will serve as our hostesses. Bring a dish to share for lunch and wear your favorite hat! You will not want to miss this! On Saturday, November 1, the Gloria Dei WELCA is sponsoring a day trip to Charlotte to see two places of interest: the Billy Graham Library and the nationally-recognized artwork at Christ Lutheran Church. ALL church members are invited to come. We will carpool, leaving from the back parking lot of the church at 9:30 a.m. We will drive to Charlotte, tour the Billy Graham Library and museum, and have lunch at the café on site. Next, we will caravan to Christ Lutheran Church where Pastor Scott Suskovic will give us a guided tour of the artwork featured in the February issue of The Lutheran, representing 46 stories of the Old and New Testaments. We should be back at the church by 4 p.m. There is no charge at either place, so the only cost will be for lunch. We have a number of folks willing to drive, so you are welcome to ride along if you rather not drive yourself. Mark your calendar now to attend! 8 Pastor received a letter from the synod about a workshop on building membership and growth within the church. The workshop will be on Saturday, October 18 from 9:30 a.m.—3:30 p.m. with lunch provided. Pastor would like for two other volunteers to attend with him. He needs to register by October 15 so the host can plan for lunch. Carla Mallinson announced that WELCA will start up this month. The meeting adjourned with prayer. Next meeting will be Sunday, October 12, following the worship service. Sanctuary Renovation Update - We have collected $1,675.00 as of 9/26/14 to help flooring and be more wheel chair accessible. Ben Gregory has already begun work on making space for the wheel chairs and hardwood floor in the middle aisle. 9 Outreach Opportunities The last project of the year for Rowan One Church One Child is the annual Star Tree. Each Star on the tree will have a child’s name and their Christmas wishes. Be on the look out in early November to pick-up a star. This year the social ministry committee is planning to adopt a family through Lutheran family services and provide them with gifts for Christmas. We will do a “Mission Trip” on Sunday, December 21 after church to deliver our gifts. More info about this will be forthcoming. Crop Walk Sunday, October 12 The CROP WALK will be held on October 12, 2014, at City Park. Registration begins at 2pm and the walk begins at 3pm. It is a 3.1 mile course around City Park. If you are interested in walking or pledging support for our youth participants, either monetarily or in canned goods for Rowan Helping Ministries, please see Brad Kluttz for more information. 12 Grace Church’s Lutheran Men in Mission is sponsoring a fish fry on Saturday, October 11 from 5 p.m. —8 pm. They will also be serving hot dogs if you are not a fish eater. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. The fish fry’s proceeds goes to a local person who is in need. Thrivent Financial has supplemented the money raised by Grace’s Lutheran Men in Mission. This year, the fundraiser will help Mr. Ray Rivers, a member of Grace’s congregation and a retired educator in the Rowan and Cabarrus County School systems. He was severely injured in an accident in June and has been at WakeMed Rehabilitation Hospital since July for ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. His degree of recovery is unknown at this time. Entertainment includes outdoor activities for children and a local band performing. There will be drawing of prizes which have been donated by local businesses. Grace Lutheran Church is located at 3020 Grace Church Road in Salisbury. For more information, you can contact the church at 704-857-8641. 13 serving opportunity The choir is practicing at 7:30 p.m. We invite you to assist us in leading worship and learn new anthems to worship God. Join us to make a joyful noise to the Lord ! Learning Opportunity JOIN US FOR WEDNESDAY EVENING BIBLE STUDY as we study the Gospel of John. We invite you to bring a sandwich for a time of fellowship at 6 p.m. in the fellowship building and the study will begin at 6:30 p.m. The Healing Service will be October 22 at 6:45 p.m. with a potluck supper at 6 p.m. in the fellowship building. 14 Youth Sunday School October 5 – Today Jesus teaches us about the greed within our hearts. People want control situations and people and they want this so badly, that their personal greed turned them against the Vinedresser’s son who was a reference to Jesus’ own death. I pray that we have all learned our lesson and can act in ways of peace to care for those around us. October12 – Weddings are time of great celebration. In today’s parable, Jesus teaches us about the wedding banquet that God has prepared for us if we allow Jesus to be our partner in life. If you and I do not let Jesus into our hearts, God will offer this gift to the needy around us who will say “YES” to God’s gifts. Let us not miss this opportunity to become closer with God. October 19 – Taxes are something that children do not have to focus on just yet. That time will come, soon enough. Jesus is helping the Pharisees to set priorities in their lives. Jesus says that we should give the things around us to their proper owner, or to someone who will use them. What things that are around you could you share with someone else? Jesus tells us that we are to only give our hearts to God – no one else. October 26 – Today is the FESTIVAL OF REFORMATION. Today Jesus teaches us about how we are set free from the consequences of our sin. We could never repay Jesus for all that hid did you us when He died on the cross. His sacrifice set us free so that we do not have to worry about sin. We are free to worry about taking care of our neighbor and forgiving each other as we have been forgiven. Happy Reformation Sunday! 15 Upcoming Youth Events Youth Camp Out— Friday night, October 17 and Saturday morning, October 18, at the Kluttz’s house. Time is to be announced. Friday, November 21 Youth Night Out—Dinner and a movie. Saturday, December 13—Children’s Christmas program at 11 a.m. followed by a pizza luncheon. Sunday, December 14—Christmas Dinner and the Christmas play following. 16 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 1908 Statesville Blvd., Salisbury, NC 28144 Church Office 704-636-8354 [email protected] The Rev. John Tucker 704-798-3102 (Cell) Pastor 704-636-5299 (Home) Tony Lippard Charles Fulton Albert Watson Parish Secretary Organist/Choir Director Sexton 2014 Officers Christine Lentz Jan Roseman Carrie Parker Kathy Budny Vice-Chair Secretary Financial Secretary Treasurer 2014 Congregation Council Kathy Budny Christine Lentz Carrie Parker David Sides Dave Hibbard Carla Mallinson Jan Roseman Albert Watson Dick Lapham Peggy Mangold Judy Schenk Jim White 2014 Committee Chairmen Yvonne Gullett Christian Education Bryan Lentz Columbarium Janice Lentz Evangelism Jim Mallinson Finance Albert Watson Property Marcia Smith Social Ministry Bryan Lentz Stewardship Julia Hibbard Worship and Music 19 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 1908 Statesville Boulevard Salisbury, NC 28144 Sundays: 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Worship Holy Communion is celebrated on the first and third Sundays of the month 20 October 2014 SUN MON TUES Newsletter deadline Oct. 26! WED THURS FRI SAT 1 1 p.m.. AA 6 p.m. Bring Your Own Meal 6:30 p.m. Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Choir Practice 2 3 4 1 p.m. AA 7 p.m. Webelos 1 p.m. AA 6:15 p.m. Piedmont Singles 1 p.m. AA 6 7 1 p.m. AA 1 p.m. AA 7 p.m. Cub Scouts 7 p.m. Cub Scouts Stewardship Com- 7 p.m. NAMI mittee meet at Christine Lentz’s house 8 1 p.m.. AA 6 p.m. Bring Your Own Meal 6:30 p.m. Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Choir Practice 9 1 p.m. AA 7 p.m. Webelos 10 1 p.m. AA 6:15 p.m. Piedmont Singles 11 1 p.m. AA 12 13 14 1 p.m. AA 1 p.m. AA Pentecost 18 7 p.m. Cub Scouts 7 p.m. Cub Scouts 9:45 a.m. SS 11 a.m. Worship 12:15 p.m. Council Meeting 2:30-4:30 p.m. Girl Scouts 3 p.m. Crop Walk 15 1 p.m.. AA 6 p.m. Bring Your Own Meal 6:30 p.m. Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Choir Practice 16 1 p.m. AA 7 p.m. Webelos 17 1 p.m. AA 6:15 p.m. Piedmont Singles Youth Camp Out at the Kluttz’s 18 1 p.m. AA 19 Pentecost 19 9:45 a.m. SS 11 a.m. Holy Communion 12:15 p.m. WELCA Mad Hatter’s Tea 2:30 p.m. Girl Scouts 20 21 1 p.m. AA 1 p.m. AA 7 p.m. Cub Scouts 7 p.m. Cub Scouts 7 p.m. Christian 7 p.m. NAMI Education Committee 22 1 p.m. AA 6 p.m. Potluck Supper 6:45 p.m. Healing Service in Sanctuary 7:30 p.m. Choir Practice 23 1 p.m. AA 7 p.m. Webelos 24 1 p.m. AA 6:15 p.m. Piedmont Singles 25 1 p.m. AA 26 Reformation 27 28 1 p.m. AA 1 p.m. AA Sunday 7 p.m. Cub Scouts 7 p.m. Cub Scouts 9:45 a.m. SS 11 a.m. Holy Communion 2:30 p.m. Girl Scouts 10 29 1 p.m.. AA 6 p.m. Bring Your Own Meal 6:30 p.m. Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Choir Practice 30 1 p.m. AA 7 p.m. Webelos 31 1 p.m. AA 6:15 p.m. Piedmont Singles 5 Pentecost 17 9:45 a.m. SS 11 a.m. Holy Communion 2 p.m. Blessing of the Animals Happy Halloween 11
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