C h r i s t u s Lu th e r a n C h u rc h
Christus News 2014
June
In This Issue
PASTOR’S
MESSAGE
2
CALENDAR
3
VOLUNTEER
SCHEDULE
4-5
STEWARDSHIP
6-8
CHRISTUS NEWS
8-13
VOLUNTEER/
DONATION
OPPORTUNITIES
13
FAITH
DEVELOPMENT
14-15
NEWS FROM
AROUND THE SYNOD
15-16
CHILDREN & YOUTH
17
STAFF
17
COMMUNITY EVENTS
BACK
Christus
“Christus is a growing body of Christians who share the good news of
Love
Courage
Purpose
God’s grace with all people through courageous love with a purpose.”
Christus Lutheran Church ELCA
N1915 Julius Drive
Greenville, WI 54942
Phone: 920-757-7775
Email: [email protected]
Web: christuschurch.org
Facebook: Christus Lutheran ChurchGreenville, WI
CHRISTUS AT THE SUMMER SEND-OFF PARADE
PASTOR’S MESSAGE
Page 2
FROM THE DESK OF PASTOR JEN
Confession and Forgiveness
Greetings, Sisters and Brothers in
Christ! This month continues a
several-month series on worship.
In this series, we are looking at
various parts of the worship
service, learning a little about the
history of Christian worship, and,
hopefully, ending-up with a
greater appreciation for all that we
do in this sacred time together.
This month’s focus is the
Confession and Forgiveness.
First, though, a story. When I
was a pastoral intern at Central
Lutheran Church in Everett, WA, I
had an interesting experience with
the Confession and Forgiveness.
It was a Lenten service and we
were using a different form of the
Confession and Forgiveness.
With this particular liturgy the
worship leader begins by making
the confession, “I confess to God
Almighty, before the whole
company of heaven, and to you,
my brothers and sisters, that I
have sinned in thought, word, and
deed by my fault, by my own fault,
by my own most grievous fault…”
and it continues on. Then, after
this confession, the congregation
offers the words of absolution:
“The almighty and merciful Lord
grant you pardon, forgiveness,
and remission of all your sins.”
After that, it is the congregation’s
turn to confess using the same
words, and then the worship
leader announces the words of
forgiveness.
That’s how it was supposed to go.
However, this wasn’t a liturgy that
my internship congregation used
often, and so rather than the
absolution coming immediately on
the heels of my, the worship
leader’s, confession, there was a
few-second delay. And for me, it
was a very long few seconds. For
I had just confessed that I’m a
sinner (by my own most grievous
fault, no less) and instead of
hearing, “The almighty and
merciful Lord grant you pardon…”
I heard silence. For an instant, I
wondered if those words of
absolution would come. Frankly,
it was kind of unnerving.
Thankfully, after a small chuckle,
the pastor who was my internship
supervisor got the congregation
started, and I heard the sweet
words of absolution.
I share this story as a way of
demonstrating what the most
important part of the confession
and forgiveness is all about, and
that’s hearing that in Christ, our
sins are forgiven. Confessing and
repenting are important work,
don’t get me wrong. But the
purpose of the Confession and
Forgiveness isn’t to make us all
feel really, really bad about
ourselves, or wallow in guilt, or
worse. The main thing with the
Confession and Forgiveness is
the forgiveness part. We admit
we have messed up, we haven’t
lived the love-filled,
compassionate, just lives God
calls us to live. And then, despite
the fact God could choose to
respond to this with smiting and
destruction, amazingly, God FORGIVES!
We are brave enough to confess
our sin, our failures, our wrongs,
because we trust and we hope
God will keep the promise made
to us in our baptism to forgive us.
That’s why the words of
absolution, the words of
forgiveness, always come right
after the confession. We don’t
have to wait until later in the
service to hear that God forgives.
We get to hear it right away. Our
sins don’t get to hang out there
like a big matzo ball, mocking us.
Instead, we name the ways we
have gone astray, and then God,
through the words that the pastor
or worship leader pronounces,
washes them away, and gives us
a new start.
That, too, is why the Confession
and Forgiveness comes near the
beginning of our worship together.
We get the elephant out of the
room, so to speak, and then we
continue hearing God’s word,
singing, praying, and joining
together at Christ’s table as God’s
forgiven children. We have a
fresh clean slate and our hearts,
washed clean, can then be open
to hearing what God in Christ
Jesus has to say to us that day in
worship.
It is also why we do this part of
worship each and every week. I
can’t speak for the rest of you, but
I have yet to have a “perfect
week” wherein no sinning on my
part happened. We need to
acknowledge we have messed up,
but even more so, we need to
hear once again, God forgives, we
are given a new start, that God
hasn’t given up on us.
So that, dear sisters and brothers
in Christ, is what we’re up to with
the Confession and Forgiveness.
I pray each week when we
confess together, that what we all
walk away with is that gorgeous
promise that in Christ, we are
forgiven. Forgiven, indeed!
Alleluia!
In Christ,
Pastor Jen
Calendar
2014
SUN
MON
TUE
WED
THU
FRI
SAT
1
2
3
4
9:30 am
Women’s Bible
Study
1 pm Christus
Sowers
1 pm
Becker/Spoor
Wedding
5 pm Mutual
Ministry Team
Meeting
6 pm Confirmation
7:15 pm G2 Youth
Group
5
Food Pantry Food Drive
6
8:30 am Traditional Worship
Service, with Communion
7
8
9
5 pm God’s
Green Acres
9:30 am
Women’s Bible
Study
6:30 pm Men’s
Fellowship
6:30 pm New
Member Class
9:30 am Sunday School
9:40 am Adult Education: Table
and Font: Who is Welcome?
10
11
1:30 pm
Krieglstein/
Mischka
Wedding
11:30 am Daytimers’ Pot-Luck
Luncheon
6 pm Confirmation
10:35 am Contemporary Worship
Service, with Communion
7:15 pm G2 Youth
Group
7:30 pm Choir
Rehearsal
12
Blood Drive
13
14
15
16
8:30 am Traditional Worship
Service, with Communion, and
New Member Reception
6 pm Service
Team Meeting
9:30 am
Minglin’ Moms
9:30 am
Women’s Bible
Study
1 pm Christus
Sowers
9:30 am Sunday School
6:30 pm Pub
Theology @
Stoneyard
5 pm God’s
Green Acres
6 pm Confirmation
9:40 am Adult Education: Table
and Font: Who is Welcome?
20
21
22
23
8:30 am Traditional Worship
Service, with Communion
6:30 pm Girls
Night Out @
StoneYard
9:30 am
Minglin’ Moms
9:30 am
Women’s Bible
Study
6:30 pm Men’s
Fellowship
5 pm God’s
Green Acres
6 pm Confirmation
6 pm Business
Management
Team Meeting
7:15 pm
G2 Youth Group
9:30 am Sunday School
9:40 am Adult Education: Table
and Font: Who is Welcome?
10:35 am Contemporary Worship
Service, with Communion
26
27
28
29
8:30 am Traditional Worship
Service, with Communion
6:30 pm Pub
Theology @
Stoneyard
9:30 am
Minglin’ Moms
9:30 am
Women’s Bible
Study
5 pm God’s
Green Acres
6 pm Confirmation
10:35 am Contemporary Worship
Service, with Communion
11:45 am Chili Cook-Off
1 pm Trunk-Or-Treat
24
25
7:30 pm Choir
Rehearsal
19
9:40 am NO Adult Education
18
6:30 pm
7:15 pm G2 Youth
Council Meeting Group
10:35 am Contemporary Worship
Service, with Communion, and
New Member Reception
9:30 am Sunday School
17
7:15 pm
G2 Youth Group
30
31
VOLUNTEER SCHEDULE
Page 4
October 5
8:30 Service
10:35 Service
Greeters:
Marcks Family
Jackie Mischka, Ashley Beske
Altar Care:
John & Pam Conrad
Gary & Patti Ruhle
Multimedia:
Brad Lotto
Adam Clifford
Ushers:
Krause Family
Todd, Anna & Sarah Shepro
Reader:
Sarah Bultman
Lynn Relien
Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Sarah Bultman, Lexie Wagner
Group 2: John & Pam Conrad, Dylan Wagner
Pastor, Jean & Sarah Shepro
Gary & Patti Ruhle, Anna Shepro
Hospitality:
Mary Bunnell
TBD
Welcome Desk:
Ron & Karen Toshner
Julie Shattuck
Powerpoint:
Shelley Roeske
Nursery:
Olivia DeSautel (open 8:20-11:45)
October 12
8:30 Service
10:35 Service
Greeters:
Sprehe Family
DeSautel Family
Altar Care:
Rod & Phyllis Paul
Van De Hey Family
Multimedia:
Brian Salm
Todd Van De Hey
Ushers:
Richardson Family
Pete & Lisa Koel
Reader:
Vicky Cichon
Heather Rehorst
Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Ron Toshner, Megan Sprehe
Group 2: Kevin, Rachel & Abby Sprehe
Pastor, Julia Martinson, Tyne Michels
Lisa Koel, Kathy Forst, Ayla Michels
Hospitality:
Brenda Walby
Wunderlich Family
Welcome Desk:
TBD
TBD
Powerpoint:
Ben Lucia
Nursery:
Laura Burow (Open 8:20-11:45)
October 19
8:30 Service
10:35 Service
Greeters:
Dave & Emilie Scheffler
Relien Family
Altar Care:
Dawn & Jerry O’Dell
Wendy & Gary Bekx
Multimedia:
Dawn O’Dell
Michelle McNichols
Ushers:
Jill & Mark Beyer
Mark Mertz, Ralph Tellock
Reader:
Linda Mix
Archer Lorenz
Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Scott & Ryan Schnabl
Group 2: Tina Hanson, Jan & Lanie Mallman
Pastor, Kent Krueger, Holland Lorenz
Lisa & Nicole Ahles, Archer Lorenz
Hospitality:
Steve & Shirley Carlson
Kelli Celsor, Joyce Johnson
Welcome Desk:
TBD
TBD
Powerpoint:
Jarrod Osborn
Nursery:
Olivia DeSautel (Open 8:20-11:45)
GOD’S GREEN ACRES
Oct. 7:
Can You Help?
Oct. 21:
Can You Help?
Oct. 14:
Can You Help?
Oct. 28:
Can You Help?
SNOW SHOVELING
Winter's coming! Please watch the kiosk for a sign up for snow shoveling opportunities.
VOLUNTEER SCHEDULE
Page 5
October 26
8:30 Service
10:35 Service
Greeters:
Peterson Family
Adamovich Family
Altar Care:
Nile & Carol Beck
DeSautel Family
Multimedia:
Bob Hicks
Jason Strange
Ushers:
Borowski Family
Zuleger Family
Reader:
Sandy Bush
Gary Timm
Comm Distr: Group 1: Pastor, Amber & Riley Hicks
Group 2: Jim, Laura, Sam Van Buskirk
Pastor, Luke & Amber Zuleger
Christine Loppnow, David Zuleger, Emma Loppnow
Hospitality:
Suzanne Nuernberger, Dorothy Ring
McNichols Family
Welcome Desk:
TBD
TBD
Powerpoint:
Brian Falk
Nursery:
Laura Burow (Open 8:20-11:45)
November 2
8:30 Service
10:35 Service
Greeters:
Rae & Paul Tyriver
Osborn Family
Altar Care:
Tony Brunner
Gary & Patti Ruhle
Multimedia:
Brad Lotto
Todd Van De Hey
Ushers:
Dave & Linda Mix
Mark Mertz/Ralph Tellock
Reader:
De Dalum
Chloe Celsor
Comm. Distr: Group 1
Pastor, Barb & Connor Krause
Pastor, Paula & Elle Van De Hey
Ed & Helen Adams, Cole Krause
Kelli, Chloe, & Asher Celsor
Hospitality:
Mark Stutz Family
Mertz Family
Welcome Desk:
TBD
TBD
Powerpoint:
Shelley Roeske
Nursery:
Olivia DeSautel (8:20-11:45)
Group 2
SUNDAY SCHOOL PARENT HELPER SCHEDULE
PreK
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade
Oct. 5
Marcus
Christenson
Family Sunday
School
Matthew Cesar
Karissa Birch
Karlee Fiestedt
Stella Roever
Oct. 12
Sophia
Governile
Caleb/Paige
Bauer
Paige Christnacht
Seth Clark
Taryn Gervais
Tyne Michels
Oct. 19
Eli Hanson
Jace Frenkel
Family Sunday
School
Zach Dahle
Kendra Hicks
Brady Mashlan
Oct. 26
Blake Krueger
Olivia Kernen
Kiley Hanson
Emma Loppnow
Jaocb Klitzke
Preston Mannino
Nov. 2
Rosalie Kulack
Avery Lehmkuhl
Harley Juadis
Family Sunday
School
Dominic/Trevor
Krueger
Cole Krause
NURSERY HOURS, CHILDREN’S BULLETIN & BLUE BAGS
The nursery is available Sunday mornings from 8:20 am until 11:45 am for infants through kindergarten-agedchildren. Or, if you prefer to bring your children to worship with you, they can help themselves to a children’s
bulletin (filled with fun activities and artwork relating to worship) and a blue bag located just outside the
Sanctuary doors. Blue bags contain paper, crayons, little toys and trinkets to help keep small hands and
brains busy during worship services. Please help us conserve offering envelopes and other things in the pew
pockets by using the supplies in the blue bags.
STEWARDSHIP
Page 6
S T E W A R D ’ S S P O T L I G H T “Sacrifice” By Arvid Wold
One definition of sacrifice is:
“Giving up something we love for
something we love even more.”
In a Knoxville, Tennessee church
incident, a gunman entered the
sanctuary intending to kill the
worshipers. A witness said Mr.
McKendry, a longtime church
member and usher who was
killed, was a hero: "He stood in
the front of the gunman and took
the shotgun blast to protect the
rest of us and the children." …
Love for others… SACRIFICE.
We can speculate on what we
would do if our faith was tested to
the point of martyrdom; but I think
many of us struggle even with the
small stuff of sacrifice. Are we
willing to actually give up much of
anything, let alone something we
love, for God’s vision and mission
for our lives, our church and our
Lord? Do we separate our real
needs from our wants and
desires? Do we see our
membership at Christus as
something serving just our own
individual or family’s spiritual
needs; are we complacent about
it; or do we see it as a prioritized
opportunity to love and serve God
and support the needs of others?
Some say about setting priorities,
“Don’t sweat the small stuff.” We
don’t need to wait for an ultimate
test of our faith when it comes to
setting God’s priorities in our
lives. By consciously beginning
with the small stuff of sacrifice
and trusting God more, we can
watch how richly we are blessed
as God moves to the forefront in
our lives. We start to separate
our needs from our wants. We
become more responsive to the
needs of those around us. We
begin to see giving of our time
and money as a joy-filled act of
worship, not as a burden or
obligation.
I have been amazed by the
powerful stories of believers who
challenged themselves, and God,
by taking deliberate incremental
steps toward spiritual growth and
greater financial commitments to
become better stewards. On their
path to or exceeding tithing of
their time and money, when that
longer-range goal has been
reached, what seemed like a
difficult sacrifice at first, ceased
being seen as a sacrifice at all.
These faithful folks, without
exception, said they were blessed
spiritually and became even more
General Fund Activity
2014 Actual
$234,331
$30,480
$5,294
$2,491
$283,794
($11,198)
2013 Actual
$239,487
$34,864
$5,382
$1,992
$288,024
($6,299)
We are to be bold, not timid, in
how we serve
“’He stood in the
God. We are to
front of the gunbe in a spirit of
power, love and man and took the
shotgun blast to
self-discipline,
protect the rest of
with God at the
us and the
center of every- children.’ …Love
thing we do. We for others…
are
SACRIFICE.”
transformed with
a renewed way of life as our lives
are drawn into a closer awareness of God’s love, grace and
vision for our lives. Let us be
bold…be faithful…trust in God
and discover the joy of our salvation!
“For God did not give us a spirit of
timidity, but a spirit of power, of
love and of self-discipline”
We have
scrip from:





DQ
Subway
Burger King
Bulk Food Store
Meat Block
Out of gas? Filler’ up by using
scrip cards!
Year-to-Date information through August 31, 2014
Income - contribution
Income - designated
Income - Scrip
Income - other
Expense
Surplus (Shortfall)
generous givers.
2014 Budget
$241,530
$37,200
$5,350
$1,700
$286,596
($816)






BP
Cenex
Express
Fleet Farm
Woodmans
Kwik Trip
SCRIP…it doesn’t cost you a thing!
STEWARDSHIP
Page 7
STEWARDSHIP
Page 8
STEWARDS OF GOD’S LOVE
Stewards of God’s Love: Imagine the Possibilities
This year’s Stewardship emphasis begins on October 26. Our theme is, “Stewards of God’s Love:
Imagine the Possibilities.” During the initial three-week campaign we will hear stories of how
members’ lives have been touched and enriched because of the ministries at Christus. We will give
thanks for all of the many individuals and families who contribute to the life and ministry of the
congregation, and we will respond to God’s gift of love through our own financial commitments to
Christus in 2015. During this time we will be encouraged to consider where God is leading Christus
and to joyfully imagine the possibilities that are open to us when we allow God’s generous love to
guide our actions.
October 26 – “Because of You” – Come hear Christus members share how their faith has been
enriched because of their participation in ministry and learning opportunities at Christus…all
because of your faithful contributions of time, talent, and treasure.
November 2- “Give Thanks” – On All Saints’ Sunday we will give thanks for the lives of the saints
and we will offer up our thanks to the many members of Christus whose giving enables us to share
the good news of Jesus Christ with one another and the world around us.
November 9 – “Stewards of God’s Love: Imagine the Possibilities” – On this day we will look
forward to the future possibilities at Christus and members will have an opportunity to share how
they intend to support these possibilities in 2015 by turning in their completed pledge cards.
And this is only the beginning…watch future newsletters for more details about the 2015 year-round
stewardship emphasis…Stewards of God’s Love: Imagine the Possibilities!
CHRISTUS NEWS
CHILI COOK-OFF/TRUNK-OR-TREAT
Back by popular demand, on October 26th, Christus is bringing back the Chili Cook-Off!!! Right after late service, at approximately 11:45 am, be prepared to serve your famous, home-made chili and compete to be Christus’ Chili Champion!
Making Chili not your thing? That’s ok, because we need lots of taste-testers to help us determine who has the best chili
recipe.
And, right after we are done filling our bellies with yummy chili, head out to our parking lot at 1 pm (or as
soon as we can get dressed after the chili) for Trunk-Or-Treat! That’s right, Trunk-Or-Treat. Young and old
are invited to dress up and participate by Trunk-Or-Treating in our parking lot. Come prepared with a bag
of candy to pass out, and decorate your car/trunk in Halloween style.
The Packers Game is at 7:30 pm, so no worries about time! Watch for a sign up on the kiosk for each event.
CHRISTUS NEWS
Page 9
MUSIC NOTES
We are always seeking more people to participate
in the music program at Christus, and not only at
the late service. If you
“To keep up with
more of the latest are able to add your
information...
vocal talents to our early
please sign up for
service by song leading or
the weekly email
update by
by providing extra
contacting
instrumental support, you
Bruce…”
are greatly encouraged to
speak to music director, Bruce Koestner. This is a
great way for high school students to earn the
required volunteer hours necessary for
graduation in some locations, such as Hortonville.
To keep up with more of the latest information
on anthem openings, Wednesday choir
rehearsal schedules and other musical
events, please sign up for the weekly email
update by contacting Bruce at
[email protected] or
(920) 209-5932.
WEATHER CANCELLATIONS
Any Church activities that need to be cancelled or postponed due to weather, will be communicated through
our website: www.christuschurch.org; Facebook: Christus Lutheran Church-Greenville, WI; WFRV (CBS);
WLUK (Fox & CW); WBAY (ABC); WGBA (NBC); 107.5 (WDUZ); 106.7 (WKRU); Star 98; 103.1 (WOGB);
99.5 & 104.9 (The Wolf); 101.1 (WIXX);100.3 (WNCY);1360 AM & 97.5 FM (WTAQ); 1440 AM (WNFL); and
99.7 FM (WYDR). Christus follows the Hortonville School District dismissal.
DAYTIMERS’ POT-LUCK LUNCHEON
Won’t you join us?
Daytimers is a social
group for everyone!
If you are retired,
working close, living
close, or just have
the day off, then the Daytimers’
pot-luck is for you! The 2nd
Wed. of each month at 11:30
a.m., the Daytimers meet at
Christus (and sometimes we
even have field trips!) for a pot-
luck luncheon. Stop in with a
dish to pass and a friend, if you
wish, and join other Christianminded friends for our next
monthly luncheon on October 8.
Don’t miss out on the fun!
ONLINE GIVING JUST GOT EASIER WITH OUR SMART
PHONE QR CODE
You can be routed directly to the mobile version of our online-giving page by
scanning this image.
Or log-on to our website: christuschurch.org and click on the DONATION page.
CHRISTUS NEWS
Page 10
PIZZAS ARE BACK
9” or 12” pizzas available. Cheese, sausage, pepperoni, or sausage and pepperoni, are
your choices. Pizzas range in cost from $3.50 to $5.50, and we have special deals if you
buy 3 at a time. Look for order information and pick-up dates coming soon. You can also
order by emailing Christine at [email protected]. All proceeds will support
Christus Missions.
BLOOD DRIVE UPDATE
Our next Blood Drive date is coming up on October 12, from 7:45
am-Noon. If you’ve never given blood before, it is a quick and
rewarding way to give back. What have you got to lose?! You
never know when you or someone you love will be on the
receiving end of life-giving blood.
NEW MEMBER RECEPTION
New members will be received into the Christus Community on Sunday, October 12. All current
members are encouraged to join us for a New Member Reception after each worship service on that
day to meet and give a personal welcome to these children of God.
CALLING ALL MOTHERLY WOMEN:
THIS IS JUST FOR YOU
If you have infants to middle school students, toddlers to high school students, beloved pets to elementary
school students… Yes, even pet moms are moms to us! We would love for you to join us for faith,
fellowship, food and most of all, FRIENDSHIP. By taking time to grow closer to God, build relationships, and
have fun, you will be refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to take on all of a mom’s daily challenges. Christus
will once again offer our Minglin’ Moms group on Tuesday mornings. Kids are welcome on Tuesdays, and
snacks and coffee provided. In addition, we’d like to extend the offer to working moms or those that can’t
attend Tuesdays to our once-a-month Girls’ Night Out. There will be a sign-up sheet posted at church or you
can watch for the Christus Facebook page to post a link to the Minglin’ Moms group on Facebook where we’ll
post events, topics and general info. Feel free to bring a friend or neighbor!
Minglin’ Moms
October 14, 21 and 28: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Christus
CHRISTUS GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT
Come join other women from Christus for some good fellowship time one evening a month. Our first
destination will be The StoneYard, October 20, at 6:30 p.m. Come for dinner, or drinks, or an appetizer, but
surely come for some good times with other Christian women. Sign up on the kiosk.
CHRISTUS NEWS
Page 11
PET BLESSING WORSHIP
CHRISTUS NEWS
Page 12
PET BLESSING WORSHIP
RALLY DAY PICNIC
CHRISTUS NEWS
Page 13
MINISTRY MINUTE
Worship Team: The Worship Team has several new, fresh ideas to make services meaningful and thought
provoking. We are planning to offer some alternative, non-Sunday services such as a Prayer Around the
Cross Service and a Wednesday Lenten Service. We are always open to new ideas and input and anyone is
welcome to join our team. We are also looking for members who are creative and would like to join a
Liturgical Arts Team. What is Liturgical Arts? This ministry provides opportunities to creatively express either
the theme of the church calendar or a specific sermon.
Service Team: The Service Ministry Team coordinates Giving Projects that benefit members of Christus, the
Fox Valley Area and beyond. Upcoming projects include collecting money for Thanksgiving turkeys (through
the Hortonville Food Pantry), a Cookie Walk Sunday, December 14, and an Adopt-a-Friend Christmas giving
project. Anyone interested in these types of projects is encouraged to attend our meetings (see calendar).
VOLUNTEER/DONATION OPPORTUNITIES
HELP WANTED
We’ve got some great, new opportunities coming up at Christus! Please check out the list below and consider
if you might be interested in helping out with these ministries!
Sunday Multimedia Operator: Be part of making our 10:35 a.m. worship service go smoothly. We are
currently seeking 1-2 individuals to add to our multimedia line-up. Schedules are created quarterly so you
always have plenty of advance notice to make switches if necessary. Interested?
Treasurer: Our current Treasurer, Mike Seeber, is stepping down after many years of fine service.
Going forward, bookkeeping responsibilities will be handled by an outside bookkeeper. The Treasurer’s
duties would be as noted below:

attend monthly Business Management Team meeting and review that month’s financial performance

have a general “business” knowledge and be able to read a financial statement

work with the church secretary and the new bookkeeper by reviewing their monthly work

twice a month, sign the payables’ checks after church secretary processes them

have a general knowledge of QuickBooks – be able to print out a report or investigate something

walk the bookkeeper through making any kind of change in payroll (service through Benefit Mall)
Christus Needs

Bleach wipes for
nursery

Kleenex for
nursery

Markers for
nursery
Budgeting:

work with Business Management Team and Ministry teams in
compiling the expense budget

budget for contribution income (after pledge information is
received)

budget other areas of miscellaneous income (designated,
Scrip, etc.)
October Grocery List
for the Food Pantry

Canned Soup

Canned Fruit

Canned
Veggies

present the budget for approval to the church council and congregation

guide the bookkeeper through entering the budget numbers into QuickBooks
It is estimated the Treasurer’s responsibilities would take approximately five hours/month.
If you are interested in serving in this volunteer role, please contact Pastor Jen or our current Treasurer, Mike
Seeber, for more information.
FAITH DEVELOPMENT
Page 14
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
Every Wednesday morning at 9:30 am, faithful women meet in The Center to
discuss Bible readings each week. You do not need to register or be a
member of Christus to join in the fun, so please invite a friend or two and
share the good news!
MEN’S FELLOWSHIP GROUP
Men’s Fellowship Group meets at Christus at 6:30 pm on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of
each month. Men of all ages are invited. On October 9, they will begin the series,
“Stepping Up, A Call to Courageous Manhood," which is a 10-Week DVD series by
FamilyLife. A book is required to be purchased at an
additional cost, either in hard copy or kindle version.
Please sign up on the kiosk if interested. More
information on the series can be found at
www.mensteppingup.com.
“On October 9, they
will begin the series,
“Stepping Up, A Call
to Courageous
Manhood," which is
a 10-Week DVD
series by FamilyLife.
FAITH DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
You’re invited to walk with us this year as we explore:
Faith Foundations
As a faith community, we will walk together to dig deeper into what it is we believe not only as individuals, but
as a community of faith. We hope you’ll join us on our year-long journey!
Coming Up In October:
October 5, 12, and 19: Table and Font: Who is Welcome?
In August of this year, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, extended an invitation
to all ELCA congregations to engage in a churchwide study on communion
practices. Using the materials provided by the ELCA and the document, “The
Use of the Means of Grace,” we will discuss our understanding of this
sacrament, as well as who is welcome at the Lord’s Supper. We will also have an opportunity to learn about
communion practices around the ELCA, as well as here at Christus. All are invited and encouraged to be a
part of this important conversation.
October 26: Open Sunday
Come hang out in The Center and enjoy coffee and fellowship with one another.
FAITH DEVELOPMENT
Page 15
FAITH DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Big News!
Pub Theology at The Stoneyard will continue into the Fall! Join us every
other Monday at 6:30 pm to gather around a beverage of your choice and a theme
to get discussion going. We’ll take some time to talk about how real life includes
real faith, and how God is present in this world on more than just Sundays. We’ll
take a look at different theological questions, then we’ll also take some time to put
a Lutheran lens on things. Topics will be announced in worship the Sunday before
each gathering. ALL are welcome!
Upcoming Dates: September 29
October 13 & 27
NEWS FROM AROUND THE SYNOD
The Central Lay School of Ministry
Of the East Central Synod of Wisconsin
Presents the Fourth Annual
“Listen to My Teaching”
-Proverbs 3:1-2
A Day of Theological and Spiritual Refreshment
Saturday, October 25, 2014
8:30 am-2:30 pm
Saint Andrew Lutheran Church
3200 North Mountain Road
Wausau, WI 54401
Classes held at:
Come join us for a full day of learning as we explore diverse topics in spirituality, theology,
Bible study, and more. There’s something for everyone! Don’t miss it!
Look for more information at our website www.wausaulayschool.org,
or in your congregation’s announcements.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE SYNOD
Page 16
For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are
perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
I Corinthians 1:18
Bishop Gerald Mansholt
There was a time in my ministry as bishop when I was going through a particularly difficult time,
questioning my call, wondering what God was up to, if anything, in the Church and the world. The struggles
were such that I welcomed an invitation for a retreat, about this time of year, in the days around Holy Cross
Day, and visited Conception Abbey in northwest Missouri. I guess I would describe my time there as one of
decompression, stepping away from the routine of bishop-y things. The time was filled with solitude, soulsearching, and quiet reflection.
On a beautiful September afternoon, I took a stroll on a path around a small lake on the abbey grounds.
The sky was blue, the red brick chapel in the distance, maturing corn fields surrounding the grounds, the wind
gentling blowing. I sat on a bench, raised my head, and found myself gazing upon a nearby wooden cross,
pondering the meaning of it all.
To this day I cannot explain it, only tell what I experienced. But clarity came upon me and entered my soul.
It renewed my confidence in the Promise of God, that in the cross of Christ (and his resurrection!) God was at
work for the mending of creation, for the healing of the world, reconciling the world unto himself. And I left that
brief Sabbath refocused, restored, renewed.
The cross is a symbol of death, historically the place of execution, a horrible and humiliating way to die.
Yet the paradox of the Christian message is this is where healing for the broken world begins, the place
where, as Frederick Buechner said, "such a mighty heart was broken that the healing power of God could flow
into a sick and broken world."
Soon I will be installed as your bishop and I pray this message, this promise of God, foolish as it sounds,
will be at the heart of our life together.
CHILDREN & YOUTH
Page 17
THANK YOU TO OUR VBS VOLUNTEERS
You helped make VBS a success! We could not have done it without you all!
Laura Burow
Kayla Holewinski
Will Stenson
Asher Celsor
Oressa Kulack
Margo Stutz
Chloe Celsor
Archer Lorenz
Riley Taube
Bailey Cichon
Deb Mentzel
Anne Van De Hey
Olivia DeSautel
Kassie Ortiz
Elle Van De Hey
Kaylen Frenkel
Amy Peterson
Lexi Walter
Sadie Gaberell
Melissa Prochnow
Madi Walter
McKenna Gervais
Lynn Relien
Jeanne Zoesch
Riley Hicks
Bret Stenson
Amber Zuleger
And, thank you to all who donated items for VBS!
G2 YOUTH GROUP
G2, (high school youth group) meets Wednesdays, from 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm in The
Center at Christus. Come for fun and faith, and a chance to chill with your friends.
Church Council
Ministry Team Coordinators
Wendy Bekx, President
Lisa Ahles, Worship Team
John Brattlund, President-elect
Rae Tyriver & Cathy Mertz, Service Team
Chad Lorenz, Liaison to Youth Team
Adam Clifford, Outreach/Fellowship Team
De Dalum, Liaison to Service Team
Jill Beyer, Youth Team
Vacant, Liaison to Worship Team
Lisa Borowski, Faith Development Team
Linda Grundman, Liaison to Outreach Team
Other Church Leaders
Dawn O’Dell, Liaison to Faith Development Team
Adam Hanson, Business Management Team Coordinator, Technical Coordinator, Scrip Coordinator
Luke Zuleger, Liaison to Faith Development Team
Mike Seeber, Treasurer & Business Management Team
Craig Burow, Secretary
Nile Beck, Stewardship Coordinator
Jennifer Christenson, Pastor
Julie Cartwright & Jamie Krueger, Sunday School Co-Coordinators
Staff
Cathy Mertz, PowerPoint Coordinator
Jennifer Christenson, Pastor
Vacant, Multi-media Coordinator
Bruce Koestner, Director of Music
Phyllis Paul, Church Kitchen Coordinator
Christine Loppnow, Director of Youth Ministry
Kelly Taube, Drama Coordinator
Dara Stull, Ministries Coordinator
Tony Brunner, Building & Grounds Coordinator & Business Management Team
Kim Lorenz, Church Secretary
Jim Borowski, Land Use Coordinator
Melissa Prochnow, Cleaning
Dara Stull, Communications & Website Coordinator
Vacant, Wedding Coordinator
Suzanne Nuernberger, Rod Paul, & Amy Wierschke, Mutual Ministry Team
COMMUNITY EVENTS AND SERVICES
Fox Valley Lutheran Homes (FVLH): We have a couple new tenants, but still have two, 1-BD apartments and
one, 2-BD apartment available. These apartments are available now with very affordable rents. Linwood Place
Apartments allow for independent senior living, but without the responsibilities of home and property upkeep.
Tenants are friendly and do many activities together. They really care about each other. Call John, Bldg. Mgr. @
419-5754 to arrange a tour. To learn more about Fox Valley Lutheran Homes please visit our website at
www.fvlhomes.org or call Marlys @ 734-7225.
Everything Belongs: Holding Life's Tensions in Balance Retreat: Have you become weary with the growing
tension between peoples and nations, and liberals and conservatives? On a personal level, are you longing to
manage stress within your own family or your community because of differing perspectives? The retreat leader is
Rev. Bob Ullman, Redeemer UCC in Sussex, WI. Held Friday, Oct. 3 @ 9:30 am-3:30 pm, at Kettlewood Retreats,
Cedar Valley, WI. For more information, go to http://www.kettlewoodretreats.com/open-to-the-public-retreats.html.
Town of Greenville: October 11th, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Greenville Fire and EMS Open House. See fire apparatus, an
ambulance, police cars, ThedaStar, live demonstrations, car seat checks, free food, handouts for kids/parents and
more!
Fox Valley Warming Shelter: Please join the Fox Valley Warming Shelter for our 3rd annual Grateful Plateful
fundraiser on Oct. 9th! The event will be held at the Grand Meridian, 2621 N. Oneida St. in Appleton from 5-8 p.m.
Guests will enjoy a heavy hors d’oeuvres buffet, program, silent auction, and entertainment by Druids Table, a
local Celtic band. Tickets for $50 available online at www.foxvalleywarmingshelter.org, at Festival Foods in
Darboy, Appleton and Neenah, or call Connie at 419-0928 to purchase. The Shelter staff and board thanks your
church for all its support over the years and we hope you will celebrate our signature event with us!
Creating Hope: The Power of Faith Communities in Mental Health Recovery: This conference is sponsored
by NAMI Fox Valley and Samaritan Counseling Center of the Fox Valley, and is to help raise awareness and
greater understanding regarding the impact of mental health within the congregation, and the partnership that can
be shared in addressing hope and healing. Grand Meridian, 2621 N Oneida St, Appleton, Oct. 30, 8 am-4:30 pm. The cost
is $50 per person which includes refreshments, lunch, and the entire day's event. For more information, contact
Doug Bisbee at [email protected] or Ann Jadin at [email protected].
Birds in Art & Magical Foxes: Oct. 9, travel to a beautiful rural location in Marathon County to learn about one of
Wisconsin’s most amazing stories of success, innovation and persistence. From humble German frontier farm
roots, an astonishing enterprise developed. Hear the history of the treasure that high society and the best fashion
houses sought. Learn about a major “stock” loss and the resultant vaccine that is used to this day. You’ll tour the
Fromm Bros. Farm, 1930’s home of the “million dollar foxes.” Before the magical fox farm, the site was the largest
ginseng operation in the world. See The Clubhouse, built entirely of hardwood logs with two massive stone fireplaces and a bowling alley – now a museum for displaying artifacts and photos from the Fromm Bros. operation,
with beautiful “Persian” carpets and comfortable leather furnishings. The tour entails considerable walking, farm
outbuildings, and some staircases spanning 3 stories, and will include vivid verbal recreations of life on the ranch.
Following the tour, we’ll relocate to the Marathon County seat Wausau, where you can choose your lunch eatery
near the city square. Afterwards, ride up the hill into a beautiful residential area that is home to the Leigh Yawkey
Woodson Museum. For nearly 35 years, The Birds In Art exhibition of two and three-dimensional jury-selected art
work has been an annual showcase for an international cast of artists who vie for inclusion of their work in this
show. A docent will guide you through the exhibit and then you’ll have some additional time to explore the ins and
outs of the museum that most appeal to you. On the return trip to the Fox Cities, we’ll stop at Nueske’s Company
Store where you can peruse a complete selection of their apple wood smoked meats, Wisconsin cheese specialty
items and enjoy some samples. Cost: $64 or $69 Includes transportation, admissions and tours. Contact the
YMCA for more details.
Spaghetti Supper: Grace Lutheran Church of Winchester is hosting an “all-you-can-eat” spaghetti supper Thurs.,
Oct. 2, 4:30-7 pm. Featuring 3 kinds of spaghettis sauce, garlic bread, salad & dessert. $6 adults/$3 children 10
& under. Free for little ones.