1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity

FEBRUARY 11, 2015
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VOLUME 25, NO. 1
Last year for the first time in my life, I decided to abstain from something during the Lenten
season. I decided to give up sweets. For the longest time, I struggled with the idea of giving
something up for Lent. There were many reasons behind this reluctance. My first reason, and
admittedly the most compelling in my thought process is the fact that I don’t like giving things up,
especially sweets. I like sweets. Nothing is as good with a cup of dark roast coffee like a fresh,
glazed donut hole (or even better, and more realistically, many donut holes).
Then there was my fear of becoming legalistic. Possessing the human tendency to think I must
help God with my salvation, I could easily have convinced myself that abstaining from something
was a way of trying to impress God with my profuse piety. Related to this, was the fear that I was
doing this not only to impress God, but also to do my good works to be seen by men, and have
them be impressed with me, as though refusing a cookie is a noteworthy sacrifice. Such a show,
I know, is revolting to God. Many of Jesus’ clashes with the Pharisees center around such false
shows of piety. Thus, up until last year, I refrained from abstaining from anything during Lent,
even in private.
But last year for the first time something clicked for me. I saw a valuable reason for giving
something up that was neither legalistic nor pharisaical. During the times I would crave that
donut hole, or refrain from that cookie, I was forced to think about my desire for such things, and
the discomfort in not having them. This served to remind me that this was exactly what Jesus did
on an infinitely greater scale for me. Instead of making the abstinence from sweets something
virtuous within me, it drew my focus to the love that my Savior had for me,—the salvation that He
earned through his own sacrifice. God used it to center my focus on the Cross.
The apostle Paul speaks of this in the familiar Lenten liturgical sentence from the second chapter
of Philippians. In verses six through eight Paul writes: “…though he was in the form of God, did
not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a
servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (ESV). Not for forty days,
but for thirty-three years, God’s Son voluntarily laid aside the full use of his divine power and
authority. The One who knew no weakness was enrobed with our weak and broken flesh,
allowing Himself to be tempted. The One who designed hydrogen and oxygen atoms and caused
them to unite to form water, found Himself thirsting. The One who designed our body’s need for
sustenance and who himself designed and provided that sustenance, found Himself hungering.
The one who authored life, found Himself dying an ugly, gruesome death. Why? Because I, the
one who least deserved it, needed it in order to be forgiven and enjoy eternal life with Him.
Lent is a time which should draw our attention to this Savior and His Cross with all of its beautiful
and sobering realities. Regardless of the way in which this happens for you, whether abstaining
from something you love, or freely enjoying it, use each day to rest in His Good News.
Pastor Adam Osier
February 11, 2015
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THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH HERALD
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THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH - SOUTH PARK AND PATTERSON ROADS
BETHEL PARK, PA 15102 - PHONE (412) 835-7140
Visit Ruthfred on the web at www.ruthfred.org
Pastor Steven P. Carlson
Pastor Adam G. Osier
Vicar Nathan J. Olson
Sylvia Armen, Parish Assistant
Paula Mikulan, Office Manager
Mark Riley, Church Council President
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------YOUR HERALD STAFF
Nancy Halboth, Interim-Editor
Mettelise Ziegler - Staff Writer; Ruth and Alan Hinkelman – Proofreading and Copy Editing;
Lauren Daugherty - Mailing Labels and Typing; Carol Mueller - Printing; Joyce Bock - USPS
Assembly and Mailing; Jeanine Szalinski - Electronic Mailing
Herald Volunteer Assembling and Mailing Crew – (12/10/2014 edition)
Joyce Bock, Barb Thomas, Gene Hershberger, Bill Rotz, Pat Moore, Bob Reith and Eileen
Bernish
Next Herald Publication Date: March 25, 2015
Submission Closing Date: March 15, 2015
Want to contact the Herald? E-mail us at [email protected].
Official Acts
November 30, 2014 through February 1, 2015
(*Indicates Member)
Baptisms:
*Joshua Stephen McMinn – 12/7/14
*Scarlett Nicole Smith – 12/21/14
*Adeline Jean Kimmel – 12/28/14
Weddings:
Emily Marie Shearer – 12/13/14
*Olivia Elaine Blackston – 12/28/14
*Lauren Elizabeth Habovick and Jason Matthew Daugherty – 12/28/2014
Transfers:
Bryce and Erin McMinn and children Noah, Elliot, Caleb, Lillian and Joshua to Calvary
Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mechanicsburg, PA – 12/16/14
Roger and Deb Towle to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Grove City, PA – 12/18/14
Transfer to Ruthfred Lutheran Church:
John Yee from Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh, PA – 12/1/14
Funerals:
*Jean D. Blazek – 12/8/14
*Robert M. Johns – 1/8/15
*Robert G. Munro – 1/27/15
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YOUR FUTURE HERALD
By the time this edition of the Herald is published, Church Council may already have appointed a
new Herald Editor. As any new Editor might be expected to do, some changes in the Herald could
be forthcoming in future editions. One change is notable in this issue … a message by Pastor Osier
is on the first page. A Pastor’s message on the first page is virtually a unanimous practice in other
church newsletters. A new Editor would certainly consider continuing this practice.
Herald articles or information should continue to be sent by email to [email protected], left in
the church office clearly marked “Herald” or placed in the Herald mail slot in the Conference Room.
February 11, 2015
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THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH HERALD
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“THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!” - By Bob Reith
Most of you older readers will remember comedian Bob Hope closing his regular TV shows, as well as
his USO specials, with the song, “Thanks for the Memories.” After ten years as your Herald Editor and
almost fourteen years before that as head of the Assembly and Mailing Crew, I also have a lot of
memories of so many Ruthfred members I am thankful for who have helped play a part in providing some
assistance in the 24 years that your Herald has been published.
In 1991 the late Wilma Wissner began a church newsletter sponsored by Ruthfred’s women’s group,
(RLCW), and my wife had volunteered to be in charge of assembly and mailing. Shortly afterward, my
wife’s working schedule was changed and she no longer had the Herald mailing day available in her
schedule. I sort of inherited the assembly and mailing job by default.
After twelve years as Editor, the Lord called Wilma Wissner home. Wilma had tried to find a member of
the RLCW to replace her as Editor but was unable to find anyone. Her personal physician, Dr. Jim
Cramer agreed to keep our newsletter going and served as Editor for about two years. In early 2004, Dr.
Jim took a new position in Eastern Pennsylvania. A new Editor was needed. Since I had worked in the
Herald for almost fourteen years, Pastor Molstre asked if I would be willing to assume that responsibility.
After much prayer I accepted his offer. At about that same time, Sharon and Craig Snyder told Pastor
Molstre they would be interested in working on the Herald as well. At the next Church Council meeting,
Sharon, Craig and I were officially appointed as a three-person Editorial Board; at the same time,
responsibility for the Herald was removed from the RLCW and taken over by Council. After three years,
the Snyder’s resigned from the Editorial Board and I became the sole Editor. In August of 2007, Nancy
Halboth joined the staff as an Editorial Assistant and a year later, Nancy became the Co-editor.
As I reminisce, I can’t help but think of those faithful Ruthfred members who were a regular part of the
Assembly and Mailing Crew but have since been called home to the Lord. One of the earliest was a
young Jean McHugh; others include Ernie Roth, Bob Sisson,, June Sippel, John Iacomini, Kathy
Robbins, Dolores Bennett (who will best be remembered by those who were present whenever she
arrived at the church on mailing day as she popped-in a little after 8:30, looked around and said, “Aren’t
you people finished yet?!”) and finally my close Christian Brother and golfing partner, Jim Taylor.
There are so many people to thank for their assistance in getting the Herald published. Certainly Sharon
and Craig Snyder who were team partners with me in getting the “new” Herald off the ground … Nancy
Halboth who has worked so diligently since joining the staff … Carol Mueller who prints the final pages …
Jim Arter who led the Assembly and Mailing Crew for a number of years and Joyce Bock who has taken
over that responsibility … Ruth and Alan Hinkelman who read over everything to be sure all the “p’s” and
“q’s” are correct … Lauren (Habovick) Daugherty who prints and organizes the mailing labels and also
does typing … Jeanine Szalinski who maintains the electronic email list and distributes the Herald via the
internet and who also designed our updated 2013 masthead. Finally there is Sibyl Mose. Sibyl was a
Herald regular during the Wilma Wissner era, then a vital helper throughout all my editorship years until
she moved back to her native upstate New York. Whatever was needed, Sibyl was always willing to
help. She did a lot of typing, worked setting up a new mailing address database, printed the mailing
labels, filled in on the printing process when needed and was a major helper in analyzing and offering
suggestions for the changes made in 2013 following the Herald reader survey in late 2012.
Lastly, there were those who have contributed to the Herald contents. It was a blessing when Nancy
Thomas agreed to write “Profile” articles. When Nancy had to opt out, Mettelise Ziegler has continued
writing these interesting articles. Pastors Molstre, Olson, Carlson and Osier have provided a Pastor’s
Corner every issue. Before he retIred, the late Pastor Dennis always moaned about having to write an
article but after retiring, he couldn’t wait to get an article into the Herald as our Pastor Emeritus! Then
there were all of our Vicars, Youth Director Aaron Kroenke, Paula Mikulan providing the Official Acts and
lots of other help, Sylvia Armen for the Upcoming Events and also help in discovering and checking old
Ruthfred information, Ron Thorhauer for computer help. Barb Thomas has been the longest and most
faithful helper on mailing days and finally, thanks to all those other Ruthfred members (too many to
name) who have come out on mailing Wednesdays to collate, staple, fold, seal and apply address labels
as well as those members who continually provided internet and other articles for possible publication.
YES, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES! IT HAS BEEN A GREAT RUN!
February 11, 2015
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THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH HERALD
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(Members Identified in Bold Face; Former Members in Bold Face Italics)
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15
======================================================================================================
JEAN (DARROCH) BLAZEK, age 89, was called home to the Lord peacefully on
Wednesday, December 3, 2014. Jean was the beloved wife of the late Dusan
"Duke" Blazek, the loving mother of David (Fran) Blazek, Dale (Debi) Blazek, and
Diann (Jim) Marshall. She was also the grandmother of ten including Lindsay and
Andrew Blazek, David W. Blazek, Shannon Blazek Woods and Kelsey,
Brandon and Joshua Marshall and the great-grandmother of seven. Jean was
born in Kilbirnie, Scotland in 1925 and came to the United States at the age of
three. She was active in volunteering with Scouting, Ladies Guild, Sewing group,
Meals on Wheels, Blood Bank, and served as president of the Baldwin Chapter of AARP. The
Funeral Service was held on Monday, December 8th at the Chapel of the Beinhauer Funeral Home
in McMurray. Memorial donations may be made to Ruthfred.
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CHARLES A. PRESTO, age 45, of Castle Shannon passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2014.
He was the beloved son of John and Mary Ann Presto and the caring brother of William (Victoria)
Presto. Charles was a graduate of Slippery Rock University and a member of the Delta Sigma Phi
Fraternity, Zeta Phi Chapter. He was an employee of PNC Bank for many years. A Blessing Service
was held on Friday, December 12th at the Beinhauer–Fryer Funeral Home in Bridgeville. Interment
was private.
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ROBERT M. “Bob” JOHNS, age 93, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2015.
Bob was the beloved husband of the late Louise Johns, the loving father of
Debbie (Raymond) Skundrich, Diane (James) Alwine and the late David Johns.
He was also the grandfather of six including Elizabeth Kenny, and the greatgrandfather of eleven. During his longtime membership at Ruthfred, Bob served
many terms on Church Council as Sunday School Superintendant, Vice President,
Elder and Deacon. He was a member of The Greatest Generation, serving our
country in the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Bob
was the retired president of Pihl & Miller Inc., River Contractors. An avid golfer, he was a member of
the Nemacolin Country Club and a participant in virtually all of Ruthfred‘s Golf Outings until health
problems caused him to “pack up the clubs.” In addition, he was an avid dog lover. The Funeral
Service was held on Thursday, January 8th at Ruthfred. Interment was private. The family suggests
memorial donations be made in his name to the Family Hospice and Palliative Care, 50 Moffett St.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15243 or Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237.
[Note: There is a reprint on page 9 of Bob John’s Profile from the March 28, 2012 issue of the Herald.]
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ROBERT G. MUNRO, age 70, passed into the Church Triumphant on Thursday,
January 22, 2015. Bob was the beloved husband of Carolyn A. (Safko) Munro
and the father of Laura Munro (Brian) Vagts and Scott (Megan) Munro. He is
also survived by two brothers and two grandchildren. Bob was a graduate of
Penn State University and a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam
Era. After earning his CPA degree, Bob worked his entire professional career
with Consol Energy. The Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, January 27th at
Ruthfred. Contributions may be made to Ruthfred or the Mario Lemieux
Foundation, 816 Fifth Avenue, 6th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
February 11, 2015
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THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH HERALD
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MEMBER PROFILES
By Mettelise Ziegler
Mark Riley
Mark Riley is serving his second term as President of Church Council
because of his commitment to the truth of the Gospel. He sees Ruthfred as a
beacon in the community.
Born in River Rouge, Michigan, a small steel town outside Detroit, Mark was
raised in a Missouri Synod Lutheran family. His wife of thirty six years, Jodie,
was a French Canadian, also from the town. When Mark introduced his future
bride to his family, his mother, a former crossing guard, recognized her as
one of the little girls who used to walk to the Catholic School.
Mark graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in engineering. A career with
Bechtel-Bettis (formerly Westinghouse) has taken Mark and Jodie to Detroit, Idaho Falls,
Virginia Beach and Pittsburgh. Jodie, an MBA, also works for Bettis in accounting. The couple
commutes to work together every day, often enjoying mutual lunch breaks.
In the early 1980’s, Mark and Jodie bought a home in Bethel Park. They received a warm
reception at Ruthfred, so they joined the church and settled into raising their children.
The Riley’s have four children. The oldest son, Joshua, is twenty-six, and recently married
Poonam, a native of India. The couple work in Information Technology (I.T.) Mark, age twentythree, is a Certified Public Accountant (C.P.A.) Christian, the third son, is a junior at Penn
State majoring in engineering like his father. Brianna, the youngest child and the only
daughter, is eighteen, a freshman at Penn State - Behrend.
In addition to his office on Church Council, Mark has served as a Deacon and Elder. He has
fond memories of teaching Sunday School to fifth and sixth graders.
For many years, Mark and Jodie have poured their energy into raising their children, but Mark
also enjoys a dedication to tennis, cooking, gardening, biking and traveling. The couple drive
home to Detroit twice a year and relish trips to various places in Florida.
Mark’s faith in God was enhanced at age sixteen when his father was diagnosed with a brain
tumor. Told he had six months to live, he actually survived over thirty more years! It was not
easy, as there were complications and challenges, but Mark learned the importance of reliance
upon God.
Now that his children are grown, Mark is looking forward to the future. He has learned wisdom
from godly men and women in the past. If and when he becomes a grandfather, he wants to
spend quality time with his grandchildren. He wants to savor time with Jodie, whom he says is
his best friend.
Mark spends time in God’s Word. He is fond of the Book of Proverbs. Like his mother, he has
a special love for the Gospel of John.
Mark believes that God has plans for our congregation. He thinks that many churches have
lost their way, and are no longer radiating the truth. He wants to be a part of whatever God
has designed for Ruthfred Lutheran Church to bring souls into true saving faith in Jesus Christ.
February 11, 2015
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YOUR NEW CHURCH COUNCIL FOR 2015
(Council members serving the first or third year in office were elected at the January 18, 2015
Congregational Meeting. Members serving their second or fourth year are incumbents)
OFFICE
COUNCIL MEMBER
YEAR IN OFFICE
President:
Vice President:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Financial Secretary:
Mark Riley
Terry Alwine
Becky Evans
Rich Kleiser
Ned Wellman
2nd
4th
1st
1st
3rd
Sunday School Superintendent:
Cheri Underwood
1st
Deacons (8:30):
Chuck Morrison
Steve Kratz
1st
3rd
Deacons (11:00):
Rich Camper
Bill Sigmund, Jr.
4th
4th
Elders:
Will Charlton
Mark Killinger
Bryan Newman
Bill Rotz
Brian Schmidt
Kurt Ziegler
4th
1st
4th
3rd
3rd
2nd
Trustees:
David Compel
Steve Diethorn
Cliff Morton
Rory Smith
1st
3rd
2nd
2nd
The following members who finished their service on Council this year deserve our thanks for their
faithful service to the Congregation:
Secretary - Jeanine Szalinski; Treasurer - William Ward; Sunday School Superintendent - Elaine
Grant; Elder - Joe Roman; Trustee – Tom Eld. [Mike DelBene elected an 8:30 Deacon in 2013
served until he had to resign in 2014 due to accepting out-of-town employment. Ed.]
And thanks also to Mark Arelt, Pat Gerity, Carl Munn and Tom Eld for their willingness to stand for
election.
February 11, 2015
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Don’t Be Upset When Your Youth Start To Ask Questions
“Mom, how do we know that the Bible is really the Word of God?”
“Dad, how do we know that Jesus really lived and did the things that are written about
Him?”
Such questions sometimes strike fear in the heart of a parent. We think that we have failed
our child and that they are walking away from the faith in which we have instructed them.
However, Dr. Walt Mueller reminds us, “Rejecting the faith of your childhood is very different
from asking honest questions and expressing doubt. A teenager’s struggle to find answers
is a step on the road to spiritual growth. It’s difficult to understand complicated theological
issues; therefore, it’s important to encourage their questions. The teenage years provide a
good opportunity for parents to build a relationship with their children by encouraging honest
discussion about values, morals, and faith.” (The Space Between, pg. 88)
However, the reality is that all too often when youth begin to ask questions about their faith,
a big defensive wall gets put up. For some parents, there is a fear that their children are
deserting the faith. For others, maybe they themselves don’t even know the answers to the
questions that their children are asking, and so the defensive front is also an escape from
the questions that parents would rather not seek to address.
Eugene Peterson speaks out against this created barrier, stating, “If parents insist on
keeping up a front of religious imperturbability, unflappable faith, and absolute assurance,
all they will do is widen the credibility gap.” (Like Dew Your Youth, pg. 90) Instead, what
Peterson encourages is openly and honestly seeking to hear the questions that are
presented and seek to wrestle through the tough issues together.
This process might seem scary at first, as we may feel that asking questions about faith is
undermining our faith. However, let me assure you that as you seek to wrestle with such
questions, you will find good answers! The Word of God has been tested and tried for
thousands of years and has proven to be accurate and reliable time and time again.
However, this journey with your youth will take work! It might mean extra research or in
depth study, but it will be worth it! What your student will see is a heart that is seeking to
know more and look for solid answers. This will not only serve to deepen their faith, but will
also build a better relationship between the both of you as you take their questions
seriously.
May the Lord bless you in this endeavor to grow in spiritual maturity with your teenager!
Vicar Nathan Olson
February 11, 2015
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LENT
The Lenten Season has always been a time in the Church during which Christians focus on
preparing for Easter Sunday. We do this by recognizing our sins and the necessary sacrifice
and death of Jesus upon the cross for us. As we journey with Jesus to the cross, we pray that
God would also be daily putting to death our old nature, so that we might live in the life of the
new nature we have been given in Christ.
Let us join together in journeying with Jesus this Lenten Season, through Death and into Life!
Come and let Jesus transform your heart!
Pastor Carlson
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LENTEN THEME FOR 2015
“A Heart Transformed from Vice to Virtue:
A Journey with Jesus through Death and into Life”
(The Seven Deadly Sins)
Ash Wednesday Morning - Lenten Service with Holy Communion at 6:30 am.
“From Dust to Life to Dust, and again from Dust to Life”
Breakfast to follow in the Fellowship Hall.
Wednesday Lenten Services at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm
Theme hymn -- #486 – “Alas and did my Savior bleed … ”
1. A Heart Transformed from Pride to Humility – February 18th – Ash Wednesday
(Holy Communion at 2:00 and 8:00 pm)
2. A Heart Transformed from Greed to Generosity – February 25th
3. A Heart Transformed from Anger to Patience – March 4th
4. A Heart Transformed from Lust to Love – March 11th
5. A Heart Transformed from Envy to Kindness – March 18th
6. A Heart Transformed from Sloth to Diligence – March 25th
Holy Week
Palm Sunday – March 29th (8:30 and 11:00 am)
“The Heart of Christ” -- Philippians 2:1-11
Maundy Thursday – April 2nd (2:00 and 8:00 pm with Holy Communion)
“A Heart Transformed from Gluttony to Satisfaction”
Good Friday – April 3rd.
12:30 - 3:00 pm
Various Meditations
Good Friday Evening - 8:00 pm
Tenebrae Service
Easter Sunday - April 5th
Worship Services: 7:00, 8:30 and 11:00 am
“A Resurrected Heart” - John 20:1-18
Holy Communion offered after the 8:30 and 11:00 am services.
Sunday School – 9:45 am (for the children)
February 11, 2015
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Page 9
[The following article is reprinted from the March 28, 2012 issue of The Herald]
MEMBER PROFILES by Nancy Thomas
Bob Johns
Regardless of age, each of us can easily muse over wartime tales told by those brave warriors,
who have answered the call to serve God through our military. Whether “in harm's way” or
laboring with “procedural duties,” these men and women of our Armed Forces have always
carried grave responsibilities as they protect and defend our freedom. Often, these guardsmen,
completed assignments which were unparalleled in securing our national victories. During WWII,
ROBERT M. JOHNS was a Radioman 3rd Class Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy. In 1943 he was
assigned to duty with FRUPAC (Fleet Radio Unit of the Pacific) in Pearl Harbor, HI, a unit of
Admiral Nimitz Headquarters. In 1942, this Unit played a major role in the breaking of Japan’s
radio code, a breakthrough that assured the success of the Battle of Midway.
Born and raised in Dormont, PA during America's Great Depression, Bob and his family resided there until moving
to Carnegie 1948, then relocated to his current home in Bethel Park in 1951. After graduating from Dormont High
School, Bob's Navy career began, and in early 1945, after two years of service, he contracted a serious fungal
infection and was sent to the Main Naval Hospital in Pearl Harbor. Following many weeks of treatment and his
physicians' decision that he could no longer serve in the Pacific Theater, Bob was transferred to the Naval Hospital
in Shoemaker, CA, where, after his recovery he received his Honorable Discharge.
Bob returned to Pittsburgh and his previous drafting job while continuing his schooling in Engineering through the
International Correspondence School. In 1947, Bob accepted a position with Pihl and Miller, Inc., a company
which designed and constructed marine facilities such as docks, etc. for businesses in and along the Allegheny,
Monongahela and Ohio Rivers and their tributaries. In 1950 he received his degree in Structural Engineering and
continued working for Pihl and Miller until it was sold in 1995, at which time he retired.
In the interim, in 1944, Bob had married “the girl next door”..... his “childhood sweetheart,” Louise Hall. Soon,
children David, Deborah and Diane completed the Johns family. They became members of the “Ruthfred
Community Church of Bethel Park,” now Ruthfred Lutheran Church, in October, 1952, and during this period of
sixty years, Bob has served as the Sunday School Superintendent, (when the first addition was added to the original
building) and later on Church Council as Vice President, Elder and Deacon. Bob’s wife Louise taught Children's
Sunday School and Vacation Bible School for thirty-plus years. And their daughter, Debbie Skundrich, has served
on Council for several terms as a Trustee. Debbie, along with Karen Agostinella and John Ruzicka, maintains our
church's beautiful property with seasonal flowers, shrubs and expertly manicured lawn care.
During their retirements, Bob and Louise, both avid golfers, thoroughly enjoyed playing in many Western PA
District amateur golf tournaments...and winning a number of impressive trophies...(which Bob is reluctant to
mention)
Like most of Ruthfred's members, Bob happily relates his own set of “Pastor Dennis” stories and many joyful
memories from their long and loving tenure of friendship. He recalls shared dinners and evenings spent together,
often with Pastor's Mother around the table. And he misses not only the Good Reverend, but, most especially, his
beloved Louise, who went Home to our Lord in 2004.
Yet, his lovely and comfortable home still reflects a most wonderful collection of memoirs from his childhood, his
special Louise, his children, six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, as well as his “Midway” movie, (which
he is quick to show and to share!) and volumes, reminiscent of his church and his strong faith in our Lord. The
warmth is complete, as the sweet ambience is touched by the familiar and soothing sounds of Glen Miller and other
music of that era. . . . And, most particularly, Bob is “so thankful for all of God's Blessings that he and his family
have received and to Pastors Dennis, Riesen, Molstre, Olson and Carlson for their Spiritual guidance and comfort
when needed.”
Oh, that everyone could meet and visit with this BRILLIANT, CHARMING, DELIGHTFUL, ENGAGING,
TALENTED GENTLEMAN of NINETY-ONE YEARS! Indeed, God's Promise... “With long life will I satisfy
him and show him my salvation.” .... Psalm 91: 16.... was made manifest in BOB JOHNS! AND....... “Surely,
Goodness and Mercy HAVE followed him all the days of his life, and he WILL dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.”.......Psalm 23: 6.
PRAISE GOD!!!
February 11, 2015
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Page 10
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Identical sessions of the Congregational Meeting were held following the 8:30 a.m. and 11:00
a.m. church services on Sunday, January 18, 2015. Each session lasted approximately 30
minutes.
The meeting was called to order with prayer by Council President Mark Riley. He stated the
purpose of the meeting was for the election of Church Council members, a review of the yearend financial summary for 2014 by Bill Ward, and the approval to include the option of calling a
Youth & Family Pastor to fill the vacant Youth Director position.
Mark Riley thanked the outgoing Council members Jeanine Szalinski, Bill Ward, Elaine Grant
and Joe Roman for their service and commitment.
Newly elected or re-elected for a second term were:
SECRETARY:
Becky Evans
TREASURER:
Rich Kleiser
SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT:
Cheri Underwood
DEACONS: (8:30 service)
Steve Kratz
Chuck Morrison
ELDERS:
Bill Rotz
Brian Schmidt
Mark Killinger
TRUSTEES:
Steve Diethorn
Dave Compel
The congregation approved to move forward in seeking and calling a Youth and Family Pastor.
Mark Riley closed the meeting in prayer.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jeanine Szalinski, Secretary
February 11, 2015
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Page 11
Your Benevolence Dollars at Work
KRISTY WANTED AN ABORTION!
“Kristy’s” mother’s stern warning echoed in her mind as she stared at the positive pregnancy test.
Having been raised by a young single mother, Kristy knew firsthand how difficult life after a teenage
pregnancy could be. She’d seen the struggles and heard her mother’s frequent reminders not to
follow in her footsteps.
Determined to break the cycle of teen pregnancy in her family, Kristy decided to go online and
search for abortion-related information.
Only, her Google search for “abortion information in Pittsburgh” led Kristy to an Online for Life
webpage that connected her with the Pregnancy Resource Center of the South Hills (PRCSH).
When “Terry,” a member of the PRCSH staff, answered the phone that day, it was evident that
Kristy’s focus was on abortion.
However, Terry understood the emotions that often linger behind abortion-determined thoughts.
With love and compassion, she encouraged Kristy to come to the center just to talk. She even
invited Kristy’s boyfriend to join her.
When Kristy and her boyfriend “James” walked through the doors of PRCSH, it was obvious the two
were not in agreement. Kristy was firmly abortion-determined, but James wasn’t so sure.
Thankfully, one of our male staff was available to meet with James, and that’s when
everything began to change for this beautiful young couple. As the staff member shared his
own abortion experience and the regret that followed, James’ heart softened. He admitted that he
wanted “to do the right thing,” but he wasn’t sure he was strong enough. The male staff spoke truth
to James, reminding him that if God is at the center of his life, then James will never walk alone in
his parenting journey.
Kristy and James reunited in the sonogram room, where they got their first glimpse of their baby girl.
Staring in awe at the monitor, they watched as she sucked her thumb, kicked her arms and legs,
and even did somersaults. “I had no idea babies were so big at this point,” Kristy admitted.
Later, as they watched a video about fetal development, James and Kristy kept glancing between
the sonogram pictures in their hands and images on the TV screen. Neither one said a word, but
their wide eyes spoke volumes.
They decided to keep their baby.
The staff at PRCSH continued to work with Kristy and James, helping them to establish insurance
plans, find local doctors, and even settle into an apartment together. And to Kristy’s surprise, both
sets of parents were very supportive. “My dad is trying to figure out where to set up a swing for his
granddaughter,” Kristy told us.
After taking parenting and childbirth classes at PRCSH, Kristy and James
welcomed their baby girl into the world.
Although their lives took an unexpected turn with this unplanned pregnancy, both
Kristy and James agree that choosing LIFE for their little girl was the best
decision they could have made. And like so many abortion-determined couples
who are helped by one of Online for Life’s participating life-affirming pregnancy
centers, Kristy and James have gone on to become advocates for Life,
helping to further weaken abortion’s stranglehold on our nation.
[From the Pregnancy Resource Center of the South Hills]
February 11, 2015
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THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH HERALD
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Page 12
COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
Monday, December 8, 2014
The meeting was called to order by Mark Riley and opened with devotions and prayer
prepared by Vicar Olson.
The Benevolence Committee’s recommendation for December 2014 was approved by Council.
Morning Star Pregnancy Services*
Bryce McMinn, Executive Director
Light of Life Ministries
City Mission
Salvation Army
Total Benevolence for December 2014
* (Missionary of the Month)
$1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
4,000
Council discussed the current youth program at Ruthfred and authorized the existing Youth
Committee to pursue a Youth and Family Pastor job description and responsibilities, and to
serve as a call committee if the position is approved by the congregation.
Council discussed the benefits of audio/video upgrades presented at the November Council
meeting and approved the following congregation members to the AV Committee: Bryan
Newman, Ann Albanesi, Jeremy Huwe, Rick Harper, Kevin Boehme, Mike Bieda, Joanne
Garloff, Kurt Ziegler, and Cliff Morton.
The meeting was adjourned with prayer by Pastor Carlson.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jeanine Szalinski, Secretary
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, January 12, 2015
The meeting was called to order by Terry Alwine and opened with devotions and prayer
prepared by Pastor Carlson.
The Benevolence Committee’s recommendation for January 2015 was approved by Council.
Voice of the Martyrs*
Jack and Kathy Rusenko
Samaritan’s Purse, Franklin Graham, for Liberia Ebola work
Ambassador Publications, AFLC Parish Education
Total Benevolence for January 2015
* (Missionary of the Month)
$1,000
2,000
1,500
500
5,000
Council discussed and approved the Youth and Family Pastor position description presented
by Pastor Carlson and the formation of a call committee if the congregation approves the hiring
of a Youth & Family pastor.
Bill Ward presented a proposal for a Treasurer’s Committee which will consist of church
members to assist the Treasurer Financial Secretary, and Financial Manager on an as needed
basis to complete important projects. Council approved this position.
The meeting was adjourned with prayer by Pastor Carlson.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jeanine Szalinski, Secretary
February 11, 2015
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THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH HERALD
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Page 13
Special Services and
Mark Your Calendar Now
Regular Sunday Services are at 8:30 and 11:00 am with Sunday School at 9:45 am
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, February 18th -
Every Wednesday,
February 25th thru March 25th st
Ash Wednesday – Beginning of Lent. Church Services
at 6:30 am, 2:00 and 8:00 pm with Holy Communion
Lenten weekday Church Services at 2:00 and 8:00 pm
Sunday, March 1 -
Church Services at 8:30 and 11:00 am and 6:00 pm with
Holy Communion at all services
Sunday, March 8th -
Daylight Saving Time begins
th
Sunday, March 15 -
Herald article deadline
th
Wednesday, March 25 -
Herald Publication date
LOOKING AHEAD:
Sunday, March 29th -
Palm Sunday – Beginning of Holy Week
Thursday, April 2
nd
-
Maundy Thursday Services at 2:00 and 8:00 pm
with Holy Communion
Friday, April 3rd -
Good Friday Afternoon Service at 12:30 pm
Good Friday Tenebrae Service at 8:00 pm
Sunday, April 5th –
Easter Sunday – Christ is risen – Hallelujah
Easter Festival Services at 7:00, 8:30 and 11:00 am with
Holy Communion following the 8:30 and 11:00 am
services
Copyright © 2011 The Zondervan Corporation
February 11, 2015
_
THE RUTHFRED LUTHERAN CHURCH HERALD
_
Page 14E
[The following article was a pre-Lenten editorial in the
March 7, 2001 Herald by the late Wilma Wissner]
======================================================================================================
Self-Searching
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's almighty hand.
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.
I Peter 5:6-7
Self-searching is a popular occupation in our culture. We test ourselves to be certain of
our abilities - to earn a degree ~ to make a living - to stick to a budget - to make a marriage
work - to raise a family - to be handsome - or beautiful - to make a friend - to keep a friend - to
grow a garden — or build a house - all kinds of practical things to make a good life.
As Christians we do a different kind of self-searching. Call it soul-searching.
Traditionally the church has set aside a time for deep and devout soul-searching. The forty days
of Lent from Ash Wednesday to Easter are known as a special time of penitence as we follow
our Lord through his humiliation and crucifixion. Christians practice many ways of observing
this time. In our congregation, we observe each Wednesday in Lent by special worship
services. Many people observe special devotions or fasting or giving.
Every popular magazine has a self-help guide to self-searching. When you are soulsearching, pull out your copy of Luther's Small Catechism (or borrow one, or buy one)
and read carefully and prayerfully through the Section on the Ten Commandments and the
Explanation. As you study through God's guide for healthy living, you will recognize how
inadequate are our attempts to live a sufficient life in the light of God's commandments.
Then gratefully and prayerfully turn to the Gospels and read of the Savior who gave His Perfect
Life in place of our inadequacies (sinfulness).
So while Lent is a time of contrition, it is also a time of inexpressible gratitude, for "God
so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him shall not
perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16