Showing posts with label Worship Schedule. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Worship Schedule. Show all posts
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Taize Prayer Service During 24-Hour Prayer Vigil
As mentioned below, we will be holding a Taize Prayer Service during the 24-hour prayer vigil this weekend. The Taize Prayer Service will be held from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, in the chapel. The music will be accompanied by guitar, flute, and keyboard. Music will be interspersed with readings, prayers, and times of silence. Everybody is invited, and visitors are welcome. Please come - the more people we have, the more beautiful the music will be.
A New Year Kicks Off--It's Harvest Time!
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
IT’S HERE!! This weekend, we celebrate our Harvest Festival, and I hope you will be able to join in the activities:
Saturday
9:00 a.m. Prayer Vigil begins in the Chapel
10:00 a.m. Craft Bazaar begins (concludes at 4:00 p.m.)
7:30 p.m. Taize Prayer Service in Chapel (led by Chancel Choir)
9:00 p.m. Campfire and prayers in the Memorial Prayer Labyrinth, and Campout on the church grounds. Those gathering to camp out at the church can help set up tables and chairs in the Fellowship Hall for Sunday’s lunch.
Sunday
9:00 a.m. Prayer Vigil concludes. Light, continental breakfast in the Fellowship Hall, hosted by Christian Education
9:30 a.m. RALLY DAY activities begin in Fellowship Hall, with special guest Ron Remy, ventriloquist
10:30 a.m. WORSHIP IN SANCTUARY, with collection of “Harvest” (with Chancel Choir)
11:45 a.m. Covered-dish lunch in Fellowship Hall (meat and drinks provided)
A Time to Grow
Our congregation has worked faithfully and with great zeal this summer in growing the $50 blessing we received on June 1. While the amount we collect this Sunday is important, especially for the 4 recipients (Jeremiah’s Letter, Christ Lutheran Church, Nuestos Pequenos Hermanos orphanage in the Domincan Republic, and Emmyline Nizeyimana in South Africa), what I am most excited about is what has happened within our congregation this summer. The Holy Spirit has been very active in your lives, and you have responded with joy and hard work. Thank you for your commitment to God and to this community of faith! See you this weekend.
8:15 Sunday Worship
Our early Sunday worship service will resume on Sunday, September 21, 8:15 a.m. in the sanctuary.
In Christ’s peace,
Gary
Thursday, August 14, 2008
A Message From Our Pastor: "Time to Grow" Harvest Celebration and Other Matters
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
You can feel the groundswell of excitement growing in this place! We are just three weeks out from our “Time To Grow” Harvest Celebration, and people are talking about how they are growing their $50 blessing, and looking forward to learning how much we will be able to give away! Last Sunday’s Music Missionary Brunch for John Buechele raised over $700, with more donations coming in, and some sent directly to Youth Encounter. Also, Vacation Bible School was a tremendously uplifting experience as people from St. Paul’s and LCOS worked together to creatively proclaim the love of God in Jesus. I am so very proud to serve as your pastor and to tell others of the wonderful people in our congregation!
WORSHIP THEME THIS WEEKEND
This weekend, our lessons lift up God’s love of all people, and call us as a community of faith to work diligently to ensure that everyone is welcome in our midst. At the 9:45 a.m. Sunday service, the Youth will present their experiences from their mission trip to the Dominican Republic. And during the celebration of Holy Communion, we will offer prayers and anointing for healing.
JOHN BUECHELE UPDATE
John heads to Minneapolis this Sunday morning for his commissioning and training with Youth Encounter before he is sent out into the world for his year-long music missionary work. He learned yesterday that he will be serving on the west coast of the U.S., but will keep us informed of his work and journeys.
HARVEST CELEBRATION – Saturday, September 6 – Sunday, September 7
Saturday
9:00 a.m. – 24-Hour Prayer Vigil begins in the Parish House Chapel
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Craft Bazaar at the church – the community is invited to help support our “Time To Grow” ministries
7:00 p.m. – Campfire and “Campout” at the church for anyone wishing to participate
7:30-8:30 p.m. - Taize Prayers in the Chapel, as part of the Prayer Vigil, lead by Ginger Minneman. Everybody invited.
Sunday
9:00 a.m. – 24-Hour Prayer Vigil concludes
9:15 a.m. – Sunday Church School “Rally Day” Activities
10:30 a.m. – Worship
11:45 a.m. – Celebration Luncheon
May the Holy Spirit bless your ministry this week! See you in worship.
In Christ’s peace,
Gary
You can feel the groundswell of excitement growing in this place! We are just three weeks out from our “Time To Grow” Harvest Celebration, and people are talking about how they are growing their $50 blessing, and looking forward to learning how much we will be able to give away! Last Sunday’s Music Missionary Brunch for John Buechele raised over $700, with more donations coming in, and some sent directly to Youth Encounter. Also, Vacation Bible School was a tremendously uplifting experience as people from St. Paul’s and LCOS worked together to creatively proclaim the love of God in Jesus. I am so very proud to serve as your pastor and to tell others of the wonderful people in our congregation!
WORSHIP THEME THIS WEEKEND
This weekend, our lessons lift up God’s love of all people, and call us as a community of faith to work diligently to ensure that everyone is welcome in our midst. At the 9:45 a.m. Sunday service, the Youth will present their experiences from their mission trip to the Dominican Republic. And during the celebration of Holy Communion, we will offer prayers and anointing for healing.
JOHN BUECHELE UPDATE
John heads to Minneapolis this Sunday morning for his commissioning and training with Youth Encounter before he is sent out into the world for his year-long music missionary work. He learned yesterday that he will be serving on the west coast of the U.S., but will keep us informed of his work and journeys.
HARVEST CELEBRATION – Saturday, September 6 – Sunday, September 7
Saturday
9:00 a.m. – 24-Hour Prayer Vigil begins in the Parish House Chapel
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Craft Bazaar at the church – the community is invited to help support our “Time To Grow” ministries
7:00 p.m. – Campfire and “Campout” at the church for anyone wishing to participate
7:30-8:30 p.m. - Taize Prayers in the Chapel, as part of the Prayer Vigil, lead by Ginger Minneman. Everybody invited.
Sunday
9:00 a.m. – 24-Hour Prayer Vigil concludes
9:15 a.m. – Sunday Church School “Rally Day” Activities
10:30 a.m. – Worship
11:45 a.m. – Celebration Luncheon
May the Holy Spirit bless your ministry this week! See you in worship.
In Christ’s peace,
Gary
Friday, August 01, 2008
A Message From Our Pastor
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Abundance and scarcity – we live with those images on a daily basis, and they are images that are lifted up in our appointed lessons for worship this weekend. At the communion table, we are fed with the endless abundance of the Bread of Life, and we are called to give away ourselves as bread for the hungry.
VACATION
That's right – Monday to Friday, August 4-8, 5:30 – 8:15 p.m. Our facility will be transformed into a "rainforest" as children, youth, and adults come together to learn that as God's people, we are called to Share, Give, Grow, Love, and Praise. Stewardship for all of God's creation is an important theme of this year's VBS, and on Wednesday, the children will be planting a tree on the church grounds. Don't forget to sign up for the Adult Class – "What Does It Mean To Be A Lutheran?" – taught by Pastor Bob Miller and myself. Where else could you drop real eggs off the sanctuary balcony?
NEEDED FOR VBS:
- Potted plants and greenery (live or fake)
- Bean bags (for games – to throw)
- Be sure to mark your names on the items you loan VBS
MISSIONARY BRUNCH – AUGUST 10
Following worship on Sunday, August 10, we will hold a special "missionary brunch" in the fellowship hall to raise money for John Buechele, as he prepares to embark on a year-long music ministry "gig". John has accepted a call to play guitar with "Captive Free", the musical group from Youth Encounter (youth ministry organization) that brings the good news of God in Jesus to youth all across the country. Like most missionaries, John has to raise funds for his living/travel expenses ($10,000), and we are one of many congregations in the Southern Ohio Synod which are raising funds for John. Plan to join us on August 10; John will be on hand, and hopes to have with him so me fellow musicians who will share their gifts with us during the brunch. This event is a Thrivent Financial for Lutherans "matching funds" event.
"TIME TO GROW" UPDATE
In just over a month, we will be gathering the harvest of our "Time To Grow" ministry project, and it is fun to experience the excitement among those of you who are participating. Suzanne Bruns reported Sunday that she has baked 34 pecan pies so far – and she's still going! Rising eighth grade student Tristin Smith is hitting the pavement in the community, selling lemonade, icee-pops, and washing cars – and her $50 blessing is growing like Spanish Moss! And on Saturday, August 9, Tristin and Alexa Coon are holding a car wash at the church (1-4 p.m. ) to grow their blessing.
"TIME TO GROW" UPDATE
And there's news about our Harvest Celebration, which will be held on Saturday and Sunday, September 9-10:
- 24-hour prayer vigil in the chapel from
- Sign up on the poster in the narthex for a 30 minute slot and pray that God bless our harvest and those who will receive it
- Holy Terrors overnight camp out at the church
- Rally Day festivities with guest entertainer, at
- ONE weekend worship service at
- "Harvest Celebration" luncheon following worship in the fellowship hall
Be bold this week, and share with someone else how God has helped you get to where you are today! See you in worship this weekend.
In Christ's peace,
Friday, March 07, 2008
A Message From Our Pastor: Worship This Weekend; Time Change; Holy Week
Dear sisters and brothers in the Lord,
CHANGE YOUR CLOCKS THIS SATURDAY NIGHT – MOVE AHEAD ONE HOUR – IT'S DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!
Our worship theme this weekend is HOPE and WAITING in the Lord, and is grounded in the Old Testament lesson of Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones, and the Gospel account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. The Sonshine Children's Choir will be singing special music for those worshiping on Saturday night, and the Joyful Noise Children's Choir will be singing at the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. Great sources of hope for us all! The Health Ministries Team will be offering free blood pressure screenings after all three services this weekend.
Holy Week Schedule
MAUNDY THURSDAY (March 20), 7:00 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Dinner will precede the service at 6:00 p.m., served upstairs in the fellowship hall.
GOOD FRIDAY (March 21), 7:00 p.m. at Lutheran Church of Our Savior (no food)
HOLY SATURDAY (March 22), 5:30 p.m. – Taize' prayer service with Holy Communion in the LCOS Chapel
EASTER SUNDAY (March 23) – ONE WORSHIP SERVICE AT 10:30 A.M. The Holy Terrors will hold their annual Easter Egg Hunt at 9:15 a.m.
So, change your clocks, and join us for worship this weekend as we praise the God who is always "on time"!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Monday, March 03, 2008
A Message From Our Pastor: Lenten Worship; Time Change
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Just a reminder that we will hold noon Lenten worship in our chapel this Wednesday, and we will be hearing the faith story of Samson from the Old Testament. Lunch will be served in the fellowship hall following worship. The evening Lenten service will be held in our sanctuary at 6:30 p.m., preceded by fellowship and refreshments in the narthex at 6:00 p.m. This week, a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church will share a faith story. Next week’s evening service will be at St. Paul’s downtown.
Reminder: It's early this year – Daylight Savings Time begins Saturday night, March 9, so move your clocks up an hour in order to arrive on time for worship and Sunday School!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Just a reminder that we will hold noon Lenten worship in our chapel this Wednesday, and we will be hearing the faith story of Samson from the Old Testament. Lunch will be served in the fellowship hall following worship. The evening Lenten service will be held in our sanctuary at 6:30 p.m., preceded by fellowship and refreshments in the narthex at 6:00 p.m. This week, a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church will share a faith story. Next week’s evening service will be at St. Paul’s downtown.
Reminder: It's early this year – Daylight Savings Time begins Saturday night, March 9, so move your clocks up an hour in order to arrive on time for worship and Sunday School!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
A Message From Our Pastor
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
It is snowing, as it is supposed to do in February . . . the church lot has been plowed and salted, as well as the walks and steps into the church. Our noon and 6:30 p.m. midweek Lenten services will go on as scheduled today.
And . . . if winter weather ever leaves you wondering if worship (or other ministry activities) are going on as scheduled or cancelled, you can call the church office, watch TV channels 2 and 7, and watch your email for any cancellations. Please know that in the event of snow or ice, our church lot is always plowed/salted in time for mid-week and weekend worship!
This weekend's worship theme is centered on the image of "living water" that Jesus offers a Samaritan woman at "Jacob's well". The ancient Biblical reference to "living water" implies water that is moving, teeming with life, and not stagnant and lifeless. In Baptism, Jesus, the source of this living water, breathes new life into us, and daily fulfills God's promise to be lead us into meaningful life. The flowing fountain in the chancel is an audible reminder of God's living water in Jesus. The series of Lenten banners that present life's contrasts (sin/grace, destruction/redemption, death/life) have been created by a member of the congregation.
Looking Ahead: Holy Week Worship
Maundy Thursday (March 20) – at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Wayne Ave., 7:00 p.m.
Good Friday (March 21) – at LCOS, 7:00 p.m.
Holy Saturday (March 22) – Taize' prayer service w/Holy Communion at LCOS, 5:30 p.m.
Easter (March 23) – one service at 10:30 a.m. celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord
May God's blessings fill your life this week with joy, hope, and the uncontrollable urge to make life better for someone else through your faith!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
It is snowing, as it is supposed to do in February . . . the church lot has been plowed and salted, as well as the walks and steps into the church. Our noon and 6:30 p.m. midweek Lenten services will go on as scheduled today.
And . . . if winter weather ever leaves you wondering if worship (or other ministry activities) are going on as scheduled or cancelled, you can call the church office, watch TV channels 2 and 7, and watch your email for any cancellations. Please know that in the event of snow or ice, our church lot is always plowed/salted in time for mid-week and weekend worship!
This weekend's worship theme is centered on the image of "living water" that Jesus offers a Samaritan woman at "Jacob's well". The ancient Biblical reference to "living water" implies water that is moving, teeming with life, and not stagnant and lifeless. In Baptism, Jesus, the source of this living water, breathes new life into us, and daily fulfills God's promise to be lead us into meaningful life. The flowing fountain in the chancel is an audible reminder of God's living water in Jesus. The series of Lenten banners that present life's contrasts (sin/grace, destruction/redemption, death/life) have been created by a member of the congregation.
Looking Ahead: Holy Week Worship
Maundy Thursday (March 20) – at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Wayne Ave., 7:00 p.m.
Good Friday (March 21) – at LCOS, 7:00 p.m.
Holy Saturday (March 22) – Taize' prayer service w/Holy Communion at LCOS, 5:30 p.m.
Easter (March 23) – one service at 10:30 a.m. celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord
May God's blessings fill your life this week with joy, hope, and the uncontrollable urge to make life better for someone else through your faith!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Friday, January 18, 2008
A Message from Our Pastor
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Looking toward this weekend, our lessons for worship remind us that identity is not wrapped up in our answers to the question, "What do you do?", but solely in what God does for us, through Jesus, in baptism - making us children of God. As you prepare to worship together this weekend, I encourage all of us to prayerfully ponder the question "Who am I?", comparing what you "do" with that which God has created you to be.
Tonight (Friday), we will hold another Spiritual Journeys event for anyone who wishes to explore a deeper relationship with God. Meet around the fireplace in the parish house foyer at 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, students in the Confirmation Cluster will gather at First Lutheran Church, downtown, to participate in a service project of feeding the community's poor/homeless.
Looking Ahead:
Next Sunday, January 27, the Evangelism Team is hosting the All-Congregation Members' Birthday Party at 11:45 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Remember to RSVP to your invitations!
Ash Wednesday Service - the start of the Lenten season - February 6. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. followed by the service at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. This will be a traditional service using the liturgy for Ash Wednesday from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, including the imposition of ashes. We will be joined by members of St. Paul's Lutheran Church (Downtown Dayton) for this service and dinner. I will write to you more later about the Wednesday night services for the remainder of Lent, which will alternate between LCOS and St. Paul's.
Question: Whose life have you improved this week by libing our your faith?
I look forward to being with you in worship this weekend!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Looking toward this weekend, our lessons for worship remind us that identity is not wrapped up in our answers to the question, "What do you do?", but solely in what God does for us, through Jesus, in baptism - making us children of God. As you prepare to worship together this weekend, I encourage all of us to prayerfully ponder the question "Who am I?", comparing what you "do" with that which God has created you to be.
Tonight (Friday), we will hold another Spiritual Journeys event for anyone who wishes to explore a deeper relationship with God. Meet around the fireplace in the parish house foyer at 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, students in the Confirmation Cluster will gather at First Lutheran Church, downtown, to participate in a service project of feeding the community's poor/homeless.
Looking Ahead:
Next Sunday, January 27, the Evangelism Team is hosting the All-Congregation Members' Birthday Party at 11:45 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Remember to RSVP to your invitations!
Ash Wednesday Service - the start of the Lenten season - February 6. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. followed by the service at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. This will be a traditional service using the liturgy for Ash Wednesday from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, including the imposition of ashes. We will be joined by members of St. Paul's Lutheran Church (Downtown Dayton) for this service and dinner. I will write to you more later about the Wednesday night services for the remainder of Lent, which will alternate between LCOS and St. Paul's.
Question: Whose life have you improved this week by libing our your faith?
I look forward to being with you in worship this weekend!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Monday, December 24, 2007
It's Christmas Eve!
It's Christmas Eve, and we have two services today. The first is at 4:00 p.m. It is the family service, and includes the children's Christmas pagaent and Holy Communion. The second service is at 10:00 p.m. It is a traditional service of Holy Communion. Much of the service will be by candle light. The Chancel Choir, Ginger Minneman, Director, is singing a number of special pieces:
Both services will include many Christmas Carols.
- Betelehemu, a Nigerian Christmas Song, Via Olatunji, Wendell Wahlum, Barrington Brooks (sung in Nigerian)
- The Shepherd's Carol, Bob Chilcott
- A La Nanita Nana, traditional Spanish Carol, Norman Luboff
- Bogoroditse Dyevo, (Hail Mary), Bill Tamblyn, Sergei Rachmaninov
- A Child By Choice, Robert Southwell, Richard Nance
Both services will include many Christmas Carols.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
A Message From Our Pastor - Advent and Christmas Events
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
This weekend is the Fourth (and last) Sunday in Advent, and our worship theme centers around the proclamation Emmanuel – God is with us. The Gospel lesson is Matthew's account of the Christmas story, with the focus on Joseph as one who trusted God and "did the right thing." As we frantically prepare for the holiday, we are reminded to trust in God, and not in our own abilities, and do what is the right thing to do – always.
During the 10:30 worship Sunday, the Joyful Noise Children's Choir will present special music prior to the Children's Moment, and the Hand Bell Choir will present music during the offering.
Weekend Activities
Friday Spiritual Journey – 10:00 p.m. in the Parish House foyer around the fire place
Saturday Adopt-A-Family Delivery – 9:30 a.m. The Social Ministry Committee is coordinating this major project that will benefit many children and adults in the Miami Valley.
Saturday Worship – 5:30 p.m. in the sanctuary
Sunday Worship – 8:15 a.m. in the sanctuary
Children's Choir Rehearsals – 9:00 a.m.
Sunday School – 9:15/9:30 a.m.
Worship – 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary
Sacred Harp Singers – 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Parish House Blue Room
CHRISTMAS EVE SCHEDULE
3:00 p.m. Christmas Pageant Rehearsal
4:00 p.m. Family Christmas Eve Service, with pageant, carols, and celebration of Holy Communion .
10:00 p.m. Traditional Christmas Eve Service, with candles, readings, carols, celebration of Holy Communion, and music presented by the Chancel Choir.
Special thanks to everyone who helped with the decorating in the sanctuary – it is beautiful. And special thanks to everyone who assisted in leading worship last weekend while Debby and I were in Chicago, especially Harriet Uphoff, Ginger and Dan Minneman, and Rachel Spry.
May God fill the remainder of this Advent season with hope, and bring joyous blessings to you all this Christmas!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
This weekend is the Fourth (and last) Sunday in Advent, and our worship theme centers around the proclamation Emmanuel – God is with us. The Gospel lesson is Matthew's account of the Christmas story, with the focus on Joseph as one who trusted God and "did the right thing." As we frantically prepare for the holiday, we are reminded to trust in God, and not in our own abilities, and do what is the right thing to do – always.
During the 10:30 worship Sunday, the Joyful Noise Children's Choir will present special music prior to the Children's Moment, and the Hand Bell Choir will present music during the offering.
Weekend Activities
Friday Spiritual Journey – 10:00 p.m. in the Parish House foyer around the fire place
Saturday Adopt-A-Family Delivery – 9:30 a.m. The Social Ministry Committee is coordinating this major project that will benefit many children and adults in the Miami Valley.
Saturday Worship – 5:30 p.m. in the sanctuary
Sunday Worship – 8:15 a.m. in the sanctuary
Children's Choir Rehearsals – 9:00 a.m.
Sunday School – 9:15/9:30 a.m.
Worship – 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary
Sacred Harp Singers – 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Parish House Blue Room
CHRISTMAS EVE SCHEDULE
3:00 p.m. Christmas Pageant Rehearsal
4:00 p.m. Family Christmas Eve Service, with pageant, carols, and celebration of Holy Communion .
10:00 p.m. Traditional Christmas Eve Service, with candles, readings, carols, celebration of Holy Communion, and music presented by the Chancel Choir.
Special thanks to everyone who helped with the decorating in the sanctuary – it is beautiful. And special thanks to everyone who assisted in leading worship last weekend while Debby and I were in Chicago, especially Harriet Uphoff, Ginger and Dan Minneman, and Rachel Spry.
May God fill the remainder of this Advent season with hope, and bring joyous blessings to you all this Christmas!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Thursday, December 06, 2007
A Message From Our Pastor
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
The first snow of the season – what a treat!!
Our second weekend in the season of Advent presents us with the theme of repentance and preparation for new beginnings. In part, that means actually expecting God to make new things happen in our lives and in the world, and then actively obeying and following the God who makes all things new. This being the second weekend of the month, the Health Ministry Team will provide free, confidential blood pressure screenings following all three of our worship services.
FRIDAY ACTIVITIES
6:30 p.m. – Christmas pageant rehearsal in the sanctuary and blue room for everyone with speaking parts
10:00 p.m. – Spiritual Journey gathering in the parish house foyer around the fireplace
SATURDAY ACTIVITIES
12 noon to 3:00 p.m. – Youth Cooking for Adventure Awaiting – in the basement kitchen
1:00 to 3:00 p.m. – Christmas Caroling, hosted by the Holy Terrors (meet at the church for carpooling)
5:30 p.m. – Worship in the sanctuary
SUNDAY ACTIVITIES
8:15 a.m. – Worship in the sanctuary
9:00 a.m. – Children's Choirs Rehearsal
9:15/9:30 a.m. – Sunday School Classes
10:30 a.m. – Worship in the sanctuary
11:30 a.m. – Congregational Meeting to elect new council members – in the sanctuary
11:40 a.m. – ADVENTure Awaiting – in the fellowship hall
1:30 p.m. – Bridge Group – in the blue room
DEADLINES
This Sunday is the final opportunity to reserve Christmas Poinsettias and submit Christmas Eve Bulletin Cover drawings.
We still have some open Sundays on the 2008 Flower Calendar. Be sure to sign up this weekend!
There are still 2008 Offering Envelopes to be picked up in the narthex. Do you have yours?
May the God of New Beginnings breathe new life into you this day so that you may see and experience life with meaning, excitement and joy! Make worship participation part of that joyous new beginning.
In Christ's peace,
Gary
The first snow of the season – what a treat!!
Our second weekend in the season of Advent presents us with the theme of repentance and preparation for new beginnings. In part, that means actually expecting God to make new things happen in our lives and in the world, and then actively obeying and following the God who makes all things new. This being the second weekend of the month, the Health Ministry Team will provide free, confidential blood pressure screenings following all three of our worship services.
FRIDAY ACTIVITIES
6:30 p.m. – Christmas pageant rehearsal in the sanctuary and blue room for everyone with speaking parts
10:00 p.m. – Spiritual Journey gathering in the parish house foyer around the fireplace
SATURDAY ACTIVITIES
12 noon to 3:00 p.m. – Youth Cooking for Adventure Awaiting – in the basement kitchen
1:00 to 3:00 p.m. – Christmas Caroling, hosted by the Holy Terrors (meet at the church for carpooling)
5:30 p.m. – Worship in the sanctuary
SUNDAY ACTIVITIES
8:15 a.m. – Worship in the sanctuary
9:00 a.m. – Children's Choirs Rehearsal
9:15/9:30 a.m. – Sunday School Classes
10:30 a.m. – Worship in the sanctuary
11:30 a.m. – Congregational Meeting to elect new council members – in the sanctuary
11:40 a.m. – ADVENTure Awaiting – in the fellowship hall
1:30 p.m. – Bridge Group – in the blue room
DEADLINES
This Sunday is the final opportunity to reserve Christmas Poinsettias and submit Christmas Eve Bulletin Cover drawings.
We still have some open Sundays on the 2008 Flower Calendar. Be sure to sign up this weekend!
There are still 2008 Offering Envelopes to be picked up in the narthex. Do you have yours?
May the God of New Beginnings breathe new life into you this day so that you may see and experience life with meaning, excitement and joy! Make worship participation part of that joyous new beginning.
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Prayer Vigil for Peace Set for the Weekend of Epiphany; Including Taize Music, Prayers and Readings
At the end of what can often be a hectic holiday season, join us at the Lutheran Church of our Savior for an event focusing on the peace that only God can bring about in our lives and world. As part of our "God's Peace Flowing Through Us" initiative, we will be holding a prayer vigil for peace during the weekend of Epiphany. The vigil will be held on Saturday, January 5 in the chapel from noon through 9:00 p.m. All members of the Dayton area community are invited to attend.
During the hour from 7:30 p.m. through 8:30 p.m., our Director of Music Ginger Minneman and a group of instrumentalists will lead those present in singing Taize music, interspersed with prayers and readings. If you haven't experienced music and prayers in this kind of setting, perform a Google search on the word "Taize," and you'll find lots of information about it. The chapel will be lit by candlelight.
We'll have a sign-up sheet in the narthex for several weeks before the vigil so that people can volunteer to participate during particular time slots. We're doing this just to make sure that someone will be taking part in the prayer vigil during its entire time. People should feel to come at any time during the vigil, however. At the prayer vigil in September, there were often many people praying at the same time. Visitors are welcome.
FYI, the regular Saturday 5:30 p.m. evening service will be held in the main sanctuary on January 5 - the prayer vigil and Taize music and prayers are in addition to our regular weekend worship schedule.
During the hour from 7:30 p.m. through 8:30 p.m., our Director of Music Ginger Minneman and a group of instrumentalists will lead those present in singing Taize music, interspersed with prayers and readings. If you haven't experienced music and prayers in this kind of setting, perform a Google search on the word "Taize," and you'll find lots of information about it. The chapel will be lit by candlelight.
We'll have a sign-up sheet in the narthex for several weeks before the vigil so that people can volunteer to participate during particular time slots. We're doing this just to make sure that someone will be taking part in the prayer vigil during its entire time. People should feel to come at any time during the vigil, however. At the prayer vigil in September, there were often many people praying at the same time. Visitors are welcome.
FYI, the regular Saturday 5:30 p.m. evening service will be held in the main sanctuary on January 5 - the prayer vigil and Taize music and prayers are in addition to our regular weekend worship schedule.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
A Message From Our Pastor - Thanksgiving Eve, the Festival of Christ the King, and Other Matters
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
As we celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving this week, we also gather as a community of faith tonight to sing our praises to the God who gives us life, and gives it abundantly! If you are not traveling, join us in the parish house blue room at 6:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Eve (Wed., Nov. 21), as we gather with members of St. Paul Lutheran Church (Wayne Ave.) for a soup dinner (vegetable beef). At 7:00 p.m., we will retire to the sanctuary for a service of lessons, prayers, song and sharing of memories.
For those of you who will be traveling, be safe, and have a wonderful celebration!
We have come to the end of the church year cycle. This weekend we celebrate the Festival of Christ the King. The following weekend is the beginning of Advent, the start of a new church year. This year, most of the Gospel lessons in worship have been from the Gospel According to Luke. When we begin a new church year, most of our Gospel lessons will be from the Gospel According to Matthew. This weekend, the Festival of Christ the King, we celebrate the victory over sin, death, and evil we have in Jesus as our eternal Lord and King, and the everlasting promise that we are God's children FOREVER!
The 2008 Offering Envelopes will be available for you to pick up this weekend in the narthex. Please take home your pack of envelopes this weekend, or when you return to town.
And, for those who were unable to be in worship last weekend, the 2008 Estimate of Giving Cards are available in the narthex. Please take one home. In prayer, ask God what God wants you to do with your financial gifts in 2008, then complete the form, place it in the addressed envelope, and return it to the church by December 2.
$5825 AND COUNTING! That's right. We've met the challenge with over one month to go! In response to your generosity, a family in our congregation who has already donated $5000 for HVAC, Jeremiah's Letter, and Lutheran World Relief, will donate another $5000. Way to go!
"It doesn't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing." (Duke Ellington and Irving Mills) May the Holy Spirit breathe that "swing" into your lives and give you meaning that can only come from knowing the Lord! See you in worship.
In Christ's peace,
Gary
As we celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving this week, we also gather as a community of faith tonight to sing our praises to the God who gives us life, and gives it abundantly! If you are not traveling, join us in the parish house blue room at 6:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Eve (Wed., Nov. 21), as we gather with members of St. Paul Lutheran Church (Wayne Ave.) for a soup dinner (vegetable beef). At 7:00 p.m., we will retire to the sanctuary for a service of lessons, prayers, song and sharing of memories.
For those of you who will be traveling, be safe, and have a wonderful celebration!
We have come to the end of the church year cycle. This weekend we celebrate the Festival of Christ the King. The following weekend is the beginning of Advent, the start of a new church year. This year, most of the Gospel lessons in worship have been from the Gospel According to Luke. When we begin a new church year, most of our Gospel lessons will be from the Gospel According to Matthew. This weekend, the Festival of Christ the King, we celebrate the victory over sin, death, and evil we have in Jesus as our eternal Lord and King, and the everlasting promise that we are God's children FOREVER!
The 2008 Offering Envelopes will be available for you to pick up this weekend in the narthex. Please take home your pack of envelopes this weekend, or when you return to town.
And, for those who were unable to be in worship last weekend, the 2008 Estimate of Giving Cards are available in the narthex. Please take one home. In prayer, ask God what God wants you to do with your financial gifts in 2008, then complete the form, place it in the addressed envelope, and return it to the church by December 2.
$5825 AND COUNTING! That's right. We've met the challenge with over one month to go! In response to your generosity, a family in our congregation who has already donated $5000 for HVAC, Jeremiah's Letter, and Lutheran World Relief, will donate another $5000. Way to go!
"It doesn't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing." (Duke Ellington and Irving Mills) May the Holy Spirit breathe that "swing" into your lives and give you meaning that can only come from knowing the Lord! See you in worship.
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Thanksgiving Eve Service and Dinner to be Held Jointly With St. Paul Lutheran Church
If you're looking for a Thanksgiving service to attend in the Dayton area, please consider joining us at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior at 7:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, November 21.
This year, our Thanksgiving Eve worship service will be a joint celebration of praise to God with the members of St. Paul Lutheran Church (downtown Dayton). The service will be a casual one, with the pastors and musicians from both churches participating.
Beginning at 6:00 p.m., dinner will be held for those attending the service. We look forward to spending time with our sisters and brothers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in worship and fellowship, and invite anyone else who reads this to join us.
Visitors are always welcome!
This year, our Thanksgiving Eve worship service will be a joint celebration of praise to God with the members of St. Paul Lutheran Church (downtown Dayton). The service will be a casual one, with the pastors and musicians from both churches participating.
Beginning at 6:00 p.m., dinner will be held for those attending the service. We look forward to spending time with our sisters and brothers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in worship and fellowship, and invite anyone else who reads this to join us.
Visitors are always welcome!
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Thanksgiving Eve Service and Dinner to Be Held Jointly with St. Paul Lutheran Church - All Visitors Welcome!
This year, our Thanksgiving Eve worship service will be a joint celebration of praise to God with the members of St. Paul Lutheran Church (downtown Dayton). The service will be held at Luthern Church of Our Savior at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel. Thanksgiving Eve this year is November 21.
A dinner will be held for those attending the service, beginning 6:00 p.m.
We look forward to spending time with our sisters and brothers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in worship and fellowship, and invite anyone else who reads this to join us. Visitors are always welcome!
More details will be announced soon.
A dinner will be held for those attending the service, beginning 6:00 p.m.
We look forward to spending time with our sisters and brothers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in worship and fellowship, and invite anyone else who reads this to join us. Visitors are always welcome!
More details will be announced soon.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Reformation Sunday Festival Service - October 28
If you are looking for a festival service to attend in the Dayton area on Reformation Sunday, October 28, consider worshiping with us at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior. At our 10:30 a.m. service, brass and timpani players will join with the pipe organ and the Chancel Choir (Ginger Minneman, Director) to lead the music for the day, including a festival setting of the liturgy (ELW Setting Five, which was originally LBW Setting II). This is a traditional service, with sung and chanted liturgy.
Please join us as we celebrate the Reformation not just as a historical event, but as a call for the continual renewal of the Church.
As a reminder, we are making a special appeal to collect food for the New Hope Food Pantry in conjunction with the services this weekend. There is a posting below this one that gives more details.
Please join us as we celebrate the Reformation not just as a historical event, but as a call for the continual renewal of the Church.
As a reminder, we are making a special appeal to collect food for the New Hope Food Pantry in conjunction with the services this weekend. There is a posting below this one that gives more details.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
"Eternal Peace" - A Service of Hope and Rememberance - All Saints Sunday - November 4th at 7:00 PM
On Sunday November 4th at 7:00 pm the Chancel Choir (Ginger Minneman, Director) will lead "Eternal Peace," a special service in observance of All Saints Sunday. They will be assisted by organist Rachel Spry as well as instrumentalists and vocalists from the Wright State University Music Department.
Please plan to attend this beautiful and meaningful service as we remember with thanksgiving those whom God has taken home and we celebrate the hope of the resurrection for all of God’s children. The service will include several movements from the Fauré Requiem, as well as other inspirational music, hymns, and readings.
As always, visitors are welcome. Please invite your friends and neighbors to join us for this special event.
Please plan to attend this beautiful and meaningful service as we remember with thanksgiving those whom God has taken home and we celebrate the hope of the resurrection for all of God’s children. The service will include several movements from the Fauré Requiem, as well as other inspirational music, hymns, and readings.
As always, visitors are welcome. Please invite your friends and neighbors to join us for this special event.
Friday, October 19, 2007
A Message From Our Pastor
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
We have lots going on this weekend, so I'll try to make this brief but informative:
FRIDAY
Spiritual Journey – 10:00 p.m. around the fire pit in the prayer labyrinth at the church (or in the chapel if it rains)
SATURDAY
Congregational Hayride and Worship – sponsored by the Holy Terrors at JD Hooks Farm (Rt. 48 south, about 14 miles from the church, on the left at the bottom of the hill)
4:00 p.m. Hayrides ($5/person)
5:30 p.m. Bonfire started and Wiener roast
6:30 p.m. Worship around the fire
Saturday Worship in the Prayer Labyrinth – 5:30 p.m., a brief Taize' Prayer service with Holy Communion
SUNDAY
Worship and Sunday School - at the usual times: worship at 8:15 and 10:30 a.m., and Sunday School classes at 9:15 and 9:30 a.m., with Children's Choirs meeting at 9:00 a.m.
Prayers for Healing and Anointing – at the 10:30 a.m. worship service – you are invited to come forward to the altar railing during the communion celebration
Confirmation – the Dayton Confirmation Cluster meets at North Riverdale Lutheran Church, 5:00 – 6:15 p.m.
WORSHIP THEME
This weekend, our lessons all deal with the need for persistence in faith, especially in our prayer life.
THANKS, JIM!
Tomorrow night, Friday, October 19, our own Jim Uphoff will be honored by the Oakwood Board of Education and the school administrators, after serving on the Oakwood School Board for more than 18 years. A dessert reception will be held at the south lawn of the Oakwood Junior High School (across from the stadium) from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. The public is invited. Jim will also be honored during halftime at the Oakwood football game.
RETURNING HOME
Tomorrow the 50 Lutherans from the Miami Valley who have been rehabbing homes in the New Orleans/Slidell, Louisiana area will be heading home. Included in the group are our own Terry Bruns, Don Hartman, and Karen Tyson. Please keep them in your prayers as they travel home.
May the Holy Spirit gather us all in worship this weekend, and may we raise our voices in praise and thanksgiving for all God gives us!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
We have lots going on this weekend, so I'll try to make this brief but informative:
FRIDAY
Spiritual Journey – 10:00 p.m. around the fire pit in the prayer labyrinth at the church (or in the chapel if it rains)
SATURDAY
Congregational Hayride and Worship – sponsored by the Holy Terrors at JD Hooks Farm (Rt. 48 south, about 14 miles from the church, on the left at the bottom of the hill)
4:00 p.m. Hayrides ($5/person)
5:30 p.m. Bonfire started and Wiener roast
6:30 p.m. Worship around the fire
Saturday Worship in the Prayer Labyrinth – 5:30 p.m., a brief Taize' Prayer service with Holy Communion
SUNDAY
Worship and Sunday School - at the usual times: worship at 8:15 and 10:30 a.m., and Sunday School classes at 9:15 and 9:30 a.m., with Children's Choirs meeting at 9:00 a.m.
Prayers for Healing and Anointing – at the 10:30 a.m. worship service – you are invited to come forward to the altar railing during the communion celebration
Confirmation – the Dayton Confirmation Cluster meets at North Riverdale Lutheran Church, 5:00 – 6:15 p.m.
WORSHIP THEME
This weekend, our lessons all deal with the need for persistence in faith, especially in our prayer life.
THANKS, JIM!
Tomorrow night, Friday, October 19, our own Jim Uphoff will be honored by the Oakwood Board of Education and the school administrators, after serving on the Oakwood School Board for more than 18 years. A dessert reception will be held at the south lawn of the Oakwood Junior High School (across from the stadium) from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. The public is invited. Jim will also be honored during halftime at the Oakwood football game.
RETURNING HOME
Tomorrow the 50 Lutherans from the Miami Valley who have been rehabbing homes in the New Orleans/Slidell, Louisiana area will be heading home. Included in the group are our own Terry Bruns, Don Hartman, and Karen Tyson. Please keep them in your prayers as they travel home.
May the Holy Spirit gather us all in worship this weekend, and may we raise our voices in praise and thanksgiving for all God gives us!
In Christ's peace,
Gary
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
A Message from Our Pastor
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Finally – it's fall . . . praise God!
This weekend in worship, our LESSONS lift up the importance of our faith being grounded in Jesus the miracle worker, not in miracles themselves, as we hear the Old Testament story of God, through the prophet Elisha, cleansing Naaman of his leprosy, and Luke's gospel account of Jesus healing ten lepers. The Health Ministry Team will be offering free, confidential blood pressure screenings after all three worship services.
This weekend, we will also have with us in worship the Rev. Bruce Rill, who is director of church relations with our mission partner WE CARE ARTS. Bruce will present a brief temple talk, as well as be available to share information and answer questions before and after all three worship services.
This Saturday, some 50+ Lutherans from 15 Dayton Conference congregations will depart from the LCOS parking lot for the third Conference Mission Trip to Slidell, Louisiana. Two of our own member-disciples, Karen Tyson and Don Hartman, will be on the bus. The group will return on October 20. Please keep Karen, Don, and all the other Lutherans in your prayers in the coming week as they represent us in tangibly sharing God's love with our sisters and brothers in need.
WE BEEN CHALLENGED!
One of our member families has challenged our congregation to raise $5000 by December 31, and the family will match our donations dollar-for-dollar (up to $5000). This family has already donated an initial $5000 for three ministries, and will donate another $5000 when we match it. The money will be dispersed for following ministries: 20% for Lutheran World Federation; 30% for Jeremiah's Letter; and 50% for the HVAC Project (new pledged $ only). In other words, half of the money will go to ministry projects that have faces (directly assisting people beyond ourselves), and half will stay here for "bricks and mortar" (our facility). How about it – are we up to the challenge? Watch this weekly update and the posters throughout the church for updates on our progress in meeting this challenge. Remember – make checks out to Lutheran Church of Our Savior, with the notation "LCOS Challenge."
LOOKING AHEAD
+ Worship and a Hayride – Saturday, October 20, JD Hooks Farm, on Rt. 48, south of Spring Valley, on the left (about 20 minutes from Oakwood). The event, hosted by the Holy Terrors, is open to the congregation. The hayrides begin at 4:00 p.m. The bonfire and wiener roast will begin at 5:30 p.m., with worship starting around the campfire at 6:30 p.m. If you plan to attend the dinner, please contact the church office (293-1147) or respond to this email. A brief service with communion will be held at the church at 5:30 p.m. for those unable to attend worship at Hooks Farm.
+ New Member-Disciples Received – during worship on Saturday and Sunday, October 27/28, we will receive new member-disciples into our fellowship.
+ Fish and Crackers Weekend – also on the last weekend of October (27/28), the Social Ministry Committee will sponsor a special food collection for the New Hope Food Pantry. While all food items are welcome, the committee is encouraging us to bring donations of canned fish (and/or other non-perishable meats) and crackers. Start collecting now!
+ All Saints Festival Service – Sunday, November 4, 7:00 p.m., the Worship Planning Team, along with the Chancel Choir, will host a special All Saints Festival Service for the congregation and community. This will be a time to remember with thanksgiving to God those loved ones who touched our lives and are now celebrating eternal life with God.
May God richly bless you with the peace of our Lord this week. See you in worship!
Yours, in Christ's peace,
Gary
Finally – it's fall . . . praise God!
This weekend in worship, our LESSONS lift up the importance of our faith being grounded in Jesus the miracle worker, not in miracles themselves, as we hear the Old Testament story of God, through the prophet Elisha, cleansing Naaman of his leprosy, and Luke's gospel account of Jesus healing ten lepers. The Health Ministry Team will be offering free, confidential blood pressure screenings after all three worship services.
This weekend, we will also have with us in worship the Rev. Bruce Rill, who is director of church relations with our mission partner WE CARE ARTS. Bruce will present a brief temple talk, as well as be available to share information and answer questions before and after all three worship services.
This Saturday, some 50+ Lutherans from 15 Dayton Conference congregations will depart from the LCOS parking lot for the third Conference Mission Trip to Slidell, Louisiana. Two of our own member-disciples, Karen Tyson and Don Hartman, will be on the bus. The group will return on October 20. Please keep Karen, Don, and all the other Lutherans in your prayers in the coming week as they represent us in tangibly sharing God's love with our sisters and brothers in need.
WE BEEN CHALLENGED!
One of our member families has challenged our congregation to raise $5000 by December 31, and the family will match our donations dollar-for-dollar (up to $5000). This family has already donated an initial $5000 for three ministries, and will donate another $5000 when we match it. The money will be dispersed for following ministries: 20% for Lutheran World Federation; 30% for Jeremiah's Letter; and 50% for the HVAC Project (new pledged $ only). In other words, half of the money will go to ministry projects that have faces (directly assisting people beyond ourselves), and half will stay here for "bricks and mortar" (our facility). How about it – are we up to the challenge? Watch this weekly update and the posters throughout the church for updates on our progress in meeting this challenge. Remember – make checks out to Lutheran Church of Our Savior, with the notation "LCOS Challenge."
LOOKING AHEAD
+ Worship and a Hayride – Saturday, October 20, JD Hooks Farm, on Rt. 48, south of Spring Valley, on the left (about 20 minutes from Oakwood). The event, hosted by the Holy Terrors, is open to the congregation. The hayrides begin at 4:00 p.m. The bonfire and wiener roast will begin at 5:30 p.m., with worship starting around the campfire at 6:30 p.m. If you plan to attend the dinner, please contact the church office (293-1147) or respond to this email. A brief service with communion will be held at the church at 5:30 p.m. for those unable to attend worship at Hooks Farm.
+ New Member-Disciples Received – during worship on Saturday and Sunday, October 27/28, we will receive new member-disciples into our fellowship.
+ Fish and Crackers Weekend – also on the last weekend of October (27/28), the Social Ministry Committee will sponsor a special food collection for the New Hope Food Pantry. While all food items are welcome, the committee is encouraging us to bring donations of canned fish (and/or other non-perishable meats) and crackers. Start collecting now!
+ All Saints Festival Service – Sunday, November 4, 7:00 p.m., the Worship Planning Team, along with the Chancel Choir, will host a special All Saints Festival Service for the congregation and community. This will be a time to remember with thanksgiving to God those loved ones who touched our lives and are now celebrating eternal life with God.
May God richly bless you with the peace of our Lord this week. See you in worship!
Yours, in Christ's peace,
Gary
Thursday, October 04, 2007
God's Peace Flowing Through Us Event - All Saint's Sunday
Our Music Director Ginger Minneman has announced that as part of our series of events based on the theme "God's Peace Flowing Through Us," we will hold a special service in the evening of All Saint's Sunday, November 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Chancel Choir and guest musicians will present special music at this service, including parts of the Faure Requiem. I'll post more details here in the days to come.
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