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

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.

Music for Sunday, October 7 - Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

The music for this coming Sunday:

• ELW Setting Nine
• Prelude - Toccatinas and Tidbits, Kevin Norris
• Entrance Hymn - All People That on Earth Do Dwell, ELW 883
• Hymn of the Day - We Walk by Faith and Not by Sight
• Offertory - 8:15 a.m. service, Psalm 37; 10:30 a.m. service, Chancel Choir, The Eyes of All Wait Upon Thee, Jean Berger
• Hymns During Communion - Build Us Up, Lord, ELW 670; Let Us Break Bread Together, ELW 471; O Spirit of Life, ELW 405
• Sending Hymn - Lord, Dismiss Us, ELW 545
• Postlude - Postlude on Old Hundredth, Fred Bock
  

Saturday Worship on October 20 to be Held Both Off Site and On Site

On Saturday, October 20, we will hold a service off-site in conjunction with the Holy Terrors' annual hayride and cookout. (The Holy Terrors is our group for children and their parents). The location is the JDHooks Farm on Rt. 48 near Lebanon. See Pastor Gary's posting below for more details.

The regular Saturday evening 5:30 p.m. service WILL also be held on site at the church. (This is different from earlier announcements.)

Pasta Weekend Results

Not only was the cart filled, but there was a large pile that couldn't be fit into the cart. Thanks to all who contributed! We collect food all year for the New Hope Food Pantry and also have special appeals several times a year to help them build the stockpile on their shelves. Previous similar special appeals this year included Souper Bowl Sunday and Cereal Sunday. To read more about these appeals and their tie to worship, click on "Social Ministries Projects" below.

A Message From Our Pastor - "Pasta Weekend"; Saturday October 20 Worship - Two Services, Including One Off-Site

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

The rain that is presently falling is truly a blessing. Earlier this week, I attended the Southern Ohio Synod's annual "rostered leaders conference" at Deer Creek State Park, and it was so dry and hot that I did not even unload my fishing gear from the trunk of my car!

This weekend, our worship theme is based upon Jesus' parable of the rich man and Lazarus, lifting up the importance of our faith in God being lived out in the ways we serve others. Thus, it is not mere coincidence that this weekend has been dubbed "PASTA WEEKEND," sponsored by the Social Ministry Committee. You are invited and encouraged to bring food donations of pasta and sauce for the New Hope Food Pantry. All kinds will be accepted - dried pasta; canned pasta; cans and jars of sauce; macaroni and cheese; etc. In an email I received yesterday, one of our members reported to me that both Krogers and Cub Foods currently have sales on both pasta, sauces, and canned ravioli. So, bring your food donations to worship this weekend, and let's fill the shelves of the New Hope Food Pantry! (Click on "Social Ministry Projects" below for more posts about this project and similar projects in the last year - "Cereal Sunday" and "Souper Bowl Sunday.")

Looking Ahead:

On Saturday, October 20, a special worship service will be held at the JDHooks Farm (on Rt. 48, south of Centerville, toward Lebanon) in conjunction with the Holy Terrors hayride, bonfire, and wiener roast. The hayrides begin at 4:00 p.m.; the bonfire and wiener roast will begin at 5:30 p.m., and worship will be held around the bonfire. You are welcome to come for the entire afternoon, just worship, or worship and a hotdog! ON OCTOBER 20, THE REGULAR SATURDAY EVENING WORSHIP SERVICE WILL BE HELD ON SITE AT LUTHERAN CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR - THIS IS A CHANGE FROM PREVIOUS ANNOUNCEMENTS.

As God is blessing our part of creation with rain, may the Lord bless you with all that will nourish your life.

In Christ's peace,
Gary

Chancel Choir

The Chancel Choir is off to a great start for the season. As always, our director (Ginger Minneman) has chosen a wide variety of excellent music. Pieces we're working on:

• The Eyes of All Wait Upon Thee, Jean Berger
• In Paradisum, Gabriel Fauré
• O Be Joyful in the Lord, John Rutter
• Give Me Jesus, Arr. L.L. Fleming
• Blessed Be the Name of the Lord, Dale Grotenhuis
• Amazing Grace, Aar. John Rutter
• O Jesu, Blessed Lord, to Thee, William Byrd
• How Blest Are They, Pyotr Iľyich Tchaikovsky
  

"Pasta Sunday" - September 30

No, "Pasta Sunday" isn't some newly-designated feast day on the liturgical calendar. It does, however, relate to the call to action contained in the lesson for the day. In the second lesson, we hear:

"As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, and ready to share . . . ." 1 Timothy 6:18-19

Sharing is what "Pasta Sunday" is all about. Food banks and food pantries receive their largest volume of donations during the holiday season of Thanksgiving through New Years. That's why we solicit donations for the New Hope Food Pantry all year long, rather than concentrating all of our efforts during the holidays. On September 30 (and the 29th, for those attending on Saturday), we're making a special appeal to help restock the food pantry with donations of pasta and sauce of all types. The pantry will welcome any kind of dry pasta, prepared sauces, packaged pasta dishes, and canned ready-to-heat pastry entrees: spaghetti, sauce in cans or jars, noodles, canned ravioli, macaroni and cheese, etc.

When we had "Cereal Sunday" several months ago, the response was excellent - the grocery cart was overflowing. Let's see if we can beat that this time. (Click on "Social Ministry Projects" for other posts about similar collections.)

Doing some quick calculations, if each person who attended a service on September 29-30 donated four or five portions of pasta and sauce - for example, a 12 oz box of spaghetti and a can of sauce each - we'd have a thousand portions. That would surely help the New Hope Food Pantry replenish stocks before seasonal donations start coming in during the late fall and early winter.

Worship Committee Meeting on September 29

The Worship Committe will hold a meeting on September 29 at 10:30 a.m., after the Peace Committee meeting. Anticipated topics of discussion:

• The special evening service that will be held on All Saints' Sunday, Nov. 4
• Worship Schedule for the weeks of Christmas and New Years
• Support of the "Spiritual Journeys" gatherings (see posts below for discussions of these gatherings)
• The experiences of congregation members at the recent 24 hour prayer vigil for peace and what this might mean going forward for us
• Handicap access to the Memorial Prayer Labyrinth and chapel
• Settings of the Communion Service for the remainder of the year

God's Peace Flowing Through Us

Here are two pictures from our kick-off weekend for our "God's Peace Flowing Through Us" emphasis.

The first picture was taken at 4:00 a.m. during the 24-hour prayer vigil for peace. You can't tell from this picture because of the flash, but the chapel was lit totally by candle light during the night. Given the number of people who attended the prayer vigil - estimated at over 100 - and the responses we've gotten from many of those who attended the vigil, the Worship Committee is going to discuss rededicating the chapel as a place of meditation and prayer.

The second picture shows the peace pole being lowered into place during the dedication service that was held after the 10:30 a.m. service. When Pastor Gary asked for vounteers to help carry the peace pole from the chancel outside, a surge of people - including many of the children of the congregation - came forward to help. See Pastor Gary's post below for details of the day. More pictures will be posted on the church website soon - we'll provide a link.

Bell Choir

Due to the congregational meeting after church tomorrow, Bell Choir rehearsals will begin on September 22. We're still looking for new members-if you're interested, contact Dick Freudenberger. Beginners welcome-we'll arrange some training sessions with Joe Beal directing.

A Message From Our Pastor - Peace Kick-off; Fall Worship Schedule

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

"It was the one of the most peaceful experiences I've ever had."

That was the sentiment expressed by many who participated in the 24-hour Prayer Vigil for peace that began our GOD'S PEACE FLOWING THROUGH US festivities last weekend. Over 100 people (children, youth, and adults) from our community of faith (including visitors!) took turns praying in the chapel. They prayed for God's peace to fill the hearts of all people in the world; they prayed for you and me; they prayed that all might have enough for life to be good. Beginning at 9:00 a.m., they came throughout the day and night, with the last prayers offered at 9:00 a.m. Sunday. Some prayed silently, some spoke, some sang. Some lit candles (see picture on www.oursaviordayton.org). Some families "camped out" in the church (the welcome rain forced us inside), crawling out of their sleeping bags at all hours of the morning to take their turns; some dragged themselves out of their homes at 2:00, 3:00, and 4:30 a.m. to make their ways to the chapel.

Sunday continued with Rally Day and a visit from the Dayton International Peace Museum "Peace Mobile", followed by a message in worship from Steve Fryburg, director of the Peace Museum, and the return of our Chancel Choir (praise God!). Worship concluded with the choir and congregation recessing outside and about 20 adults and children carrying the Peace Pole from the sanctuary to its permanent site at the entrance to the cul-de-sac. Watch for pictures to be posted on the church website in the next week. If you took pictures of the day, we'd love for you to share them with the church office. If you have two or three, please email them to Terri Balsom; if you have more, could you please burn them onto a disc? Thanks!

During lunch (which, as several of us noticed, featured NO green jello salad dish!) our youth hosted a "Fair Trade Fair," offering for sale food and artisan items from around the world. T-shirts commemorating the weekend were also for sale. All these items will be available after worship for the next few weeks.

Special thanks to the members of the Peace Focus Team and church staff who engaged in the "behind-the-scenes" planning; to everyone who participated in the prayer vigil; to those who prepared the chapel for the vigil and the sanctuary for worship; to our chefs who grilled hamburgers, hotdogs, and veggie burgers in the drenching humid morning, and to all who brought such wonderful food to share; to Kent Halverson and Ron Iverson for returning to the church to permanently "plant" the Peace Pole; and to all of you who participated in such a meaningful weekend. It was a great way to kickoff what we hope will be a multi-year ministry focus for the people of God in this small corner of God's kingdom.

THIS WEEKEND
WORSHIP SCHEDULE CHANGE!

This Sunday, we move to our fall, winter, and spring Sunday worship schedule: 8:15 and 10:30 a.m., with childrens' choirs at 9:00 a.m., and Sunday School for all ages at 9:15 and 9:30 a.m.

Saturday worship remains the same at 5:30 p.m.

CONGREGATION INFORMATION MEETING

Sunday, at 11:45 a.m., council will hold an HVAC project information meeting. Come and learn about the progress of the project; there will be opportunity for questions.

SEEKING BELL RINGERS

The Hand Bell Choir is seeking youth and adults interested in playing hand bells. The choir occasionally presents a special piece of music during worship; rehearsals are held in the sanctuary balcony immediately following the late worship service. Interested? Contact Richard Freudenberger or leave a comment on this posting.

May God breathe peace, hope and joy into your life this week, and may you be led to share those gifts with others throughout the week, and with your sisters and brothers in Christ this weekend in worship!

In Christ's peace,

Gary

New Cross in the Prayer Labyrinth Garden

Those of you who attended worship last Saturday may have noticed a new feature in the Prayer Labyrinth Garden. A wrought iron cross has been mounted on the wall of the old mansion. Thanks to the Tysons for donating the cross, and to Karen Roberts for sending me this picture.

Kick-Off Weekend for "God's Peace Flowing Through Us"; Spirtual Journeys - A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

One final reminder of the details for this weekend's GOD'S PEACE FLOWING THROUGH US kick off festivities:

Saturday

• 9:00 a.m. 24-hour prayer vigil begins in the chapel.
• 7:30 p.m. Set up tents for the all-church camp out (green space to the west of the Prayer Labyrinth) - if the weather doesn't cooperate, we'll "camp out" inside.
  
  THERE IS NO SATURDAY WORSHIP THIS WEEKEND.

Sunday

• 9:00 a.m. Prayer vigil concludes.
• 9:15 a.m. All-church SCS event in the sanctuary (Rally Day) and the cul-de-sac with the Dayton Peace Museum "Peace Mobile."
• 10:30 a.m. WORSHIP IN THE SANCTUARY, with guest speaker Steve Fryburg, Director of the Dayton Peace Museum.
• 11:45 a.m. Peace Pole "planting" and dedication/blessing, featuring the Fairmont High School a cappella group Eleventh Hour.
• 12:00 noon. Cookout lunch – In the cul-de-sac, weather permitting; otherwise, downstairs in the fellowship hall. Hamburgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers and drinks will be provided – bring a picnic dish to share.
• 12:00 noon. "Fair Trade" Fair – Our youth will be selling Fair Trade items during lunch, which include a variety of items from around the world. They will also be selling t-shirts to commemorate "God's Peace Flowing Through Us."

I hope you can be with us this weekend! If you are traveling, please keep our congregation in your prayers as we strive to be agents for God's peace in our communities, country, and throughout the world.

SPIRITUAL JOURNEYS
You are invited to gather in the Memorial Prayer Labyrinth on Friday, 10:00 p.m. as we begin with various prayers for God's Peace to lead our congregation, and then move into a discussion about what we can do to participate in sharing God's Peace with others. This is a high school football night, so if you can't be there at 10:00 p.m., don't stay away – come late! We'll be around until around 11:30 p.m. See posts below for more details on what "Spiritual Journeys" is all about.


Again, I hope you plan to join in the festivities this weekend!

In God's Peace,
Gary

Bell Choir - New Members Needed

Rehearsals will begin on Sunday, September 16, after the 10:30 a.m. service.

The Bell Choir needs some new members to help bolster the ranks.

You don't have to be an accomplished musician to join us. If you've ever sung in a choir, played an instrument, or otherwise had some exerience reading music, you'll pick up bells quickly. Joe Beal has volunteered to help with a "beginner's class" that will teach you the fundamentals, and when we merge the beginner's class into the choir, we can pair you up with an experienced ringer who will help you out.

The Bell Choir is open to youth and adults. It can be a family activity - we've had several pairings of children and parents/grandparents.

If you're interested, please speak to Dick Freudenberger or Ginger Minneman.

Thanks . . .

to Wilma Meckstroth for playing the organ last Sunday while Rachel was out of town. It's always great to hear Wilma play, and it's a blessing that she is willing to come out of retirement to lead us in worship when the need arises.

Yes, the New Air Conditioning System is Working

For those of you who might not have heard, the new HVAC system is up and running. Thanks to the Church Council, Property Committee, and others for all the work that went into this project, and to everyone who has pitched in to help finance it.

From Our Pastor: Schedule Changes; God's Peace; Spiritual Journeys

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

As we quickly approach the time when summer fades into autumn, I want to remind you all of the various schedule changes that are upon us:

+ This Sunday (September 2) is the final 9:45 a.m. service for the summer.
+ Next Saturday (September 8) there will be NO WORSHIP - please join us Sunday for our fall kick off
+ Next Sunday (September 9), we will gather in our ONE worship service for the weekend at 10:30 a.m. to kick off the new school year and our "God's Peace Flowing Through Us" emphasis; in addition, an all-church Sunday School event will be held at 9:15 a.m.
+ Satureay/Sunday, September 15 & 16, we begin our fall worship schedule, with three worship services offered each weekend: 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays; 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. on Sundays, with Sunday Church Classes offered for all ages at 9:15 a.m. every Sunday.

Please mark your calendars, planners, palm pilots, blackberries, or anything else you employ to keep track of where you are supposed to be.

This weekend's Worship Theme deals with hospitality – our response to God's hospitality as extended in the Good News of Jesus Christ, and our call to share that hospitality with others in our midst.

"God's Peace Flowing Through Us" Update:

PRAYER VIGIL – to date, we have filled 27 of the 48 time slots (30 min. each); if you have not yet signed up, please do so this weekend in worship (or call the church office). A notebook of prayers will be
available for your use in the chapel.
PEACE POLE – the "punch bowl" area will be the permanent site for Peace Pole, and following worship we will hold a brief service of dedication and blessing of the Pole. We are seeking children, youth and adults to help carry the pole out of the sanctuary in the procession after worship (due to its size, the weight of the pole is significant!). If you want to help, simply come forward to the chancel during the singing of the last hymn, and we will put you to work.
COOKOUT - hot dogs, hamburgers, and veggie burgers will be grilled, and drinks will be provided. You are asked to bring a picnic dish to share with the crowd.

Spiritual Journeys

We will gather in the Memorial Prayer Labyrinth this Friday, August 31, 10:00 – 11:30 p.m. We will begin with Taize Prayer, and then view a brief video clip (on a laptop) to launch us into a discussion about how God is active in our lives. We know this is a high school football night, so if you cannot get there by 10:00 p.m., come late! And bring a friend. The fire pit will be burning, and the forecast is for the night to feel like autumn!

Enhance your holiday weekend by sharing time in worship with your sisters and brothers in Christ. If you are traveling, be safe and have fun, and we'll see you when you return.

Peace, in Christ,
Gary

Spiritual Journeys Gathering This Friday

The next "Spiritual Journeys" gathering will be this Friday evening, August 31, at 10:00 p.m. outside in the Memorial Prayer Labrynth. Spiritual Journeys gatherings are for youth and adults who wish to deepend their relationship with God. Generated by youth who have been looking for ways to expand their spiritual journey, these late night gatherings combine ancient Christian worship rituals with Biblical interpretation and discussions of how God is present in the world today. They are open to anyone of any age who is interested growing in faith.through prayer, exploration of God's Word, and discussions of questions about faith and God's will for our lives.

This week, we will gather outside around the newly-donated fire pit. Bug spray will be availalble, and coffee and hot water for tea and hot chocolate will be "on." Invite a friend!

Thanks . . .

. . . to Elyse Fenstermacher for singing Bernstein's "Simple Song" last Sunday in worship. It was beautiful. Elyse is an alumni of the Chancel Choir. She attends St. Olaf College, where she'll be a junior this year. She is attending St. Olaf on a music scholarship, and is a recipient of the LCOS Foundation Willauer Scholarship Fund. Elyse is a French major and a member of the St. Olaf Choir, which tours extensively every year. We wish Elyse well as she returns to college for the year.

A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Although adjustments need to be completed, WE HAVE AIR CONDITIONING IN THE SANCTUARY (the bride and groom getting married on Saturday are breathing a huge sigh of relief)!!

The WORSHIP THEME this weekend deals with God's power to heal the "crippled" state of humanity – physical, mental, spiritual – so that we can worship God and serve others. Is anything keeping you from truly worshiping and serving? If so, hand it over to God, let God help you, and then celebrate God's gift in you!

As we approach our God's Peace Flowing Through Us kick off weekend (September 8/9), I invite you to consider participating in, and helping out with, any or all of the following:

+ 24-hour Prayer Vigil, from 9:00 a.m. Saturday, September 8 to 9:00 a.m. Sunday, September 9 in the chapel. We are seeking individuals, families, groups to take 30 minute shifts; a notebook of prayers for peace (global, community, home, health, economic, spiritual) will be in the chapel for your use if you wish; use the bulletin insert to sign up for one or more time slots, or contact the church office.

+ Campout on the church grounds – Saturday night; pitch your tents at 7:30 p.m.; Prayer Labyrinth fire pit will be burning throughout the night; games for all ages, plus songs, marshmallow roast, and prayers for peace.

+ All Church Sunday School – 9:15 a.m. featuring the Dayton Peace Museum Peace-Mobile.

+ One Weekend Worship Service – Sunday, 10:30 a.m., featuring Steve Fryburg, director of the Dayton Peace Museum, and concluding with a dedication service for a Peace Pole, which proclaims the message "May Peace Prevail On Earth" in 16 languages.

+ Cookout Lunch – Sunday, noon. We are seeking people to assist with grilling hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie burgers – let the church office know if you are willing to help.

+ Fair Trade Fair – hosted by our Youth, featuring hand crafted items, coffee and chocolates, the proceeds of which will benefit people around the world.

Plan to be with us as we launch this exciting multi-year ministry emphasis!

Please keep our children, youth and school staffs in prayer as schools begin for a new year.

May God bless you this week, and lead you to worship this weekend!

In Christ,
Gary

Chancel Choir Kick-Off Party - New Date

The date for the Chancel Choir's kick-off party and rehearsal has been changed to Thursday, September 6. The party and rehearsal are at the home of Phyl Mayne. Everyone is invited to bring a covered dish. Join us at 5:30 for appetizers, followed by dinner around 6:00. Rehearsal will begin at 7:30.

Ginger has many exciting things planned for this year - this would be a great time for anyone who has been considered being a part of the choir to join us.

Setting Nine from ELW

Last Sunday, we began using Setting Nine of the Service of Holy Communion from the ELW for the first time. This first effort went well, despite the heat (we didn't have air conditioning for one week while the new system is being put in place). Portions of this setting are familiar to the congregation because they are similar to music that appeared in the provisional setting we sampled several years ago as part of the Renewing Worship project. Also, members of the Chancel Choir gathered with Ginger prior to the service to read through the music so that they could help lead the congregation by singing confidently.

We'll be using Setting Nine for a little while so that people can learn it. In mid-autum, we'll continue our practice of seasonally rotating the settings that we know. The congregation will then be familiar with Settings Three, Four, Five and Nine from ELW, and V from WOV. The goal is to change periodically so that there is variety, but not so often that people feel unsettled. For example, we'll switch to another setting in the autum for the "festival season" which ends on the Festival of Christ the King, then use another setting during Advent.

Thanks . . .

. . . to Norma Nawroth for singing last Sunday during both the offering and communion. Norma beautifully sang In Joseph's Lovely Garden and Now the Silence. We appreciate Norma's contribution to our worship.

A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Last weekend in worship was exciting and challenging for us as a community of faith.

It was exciting because we celebrated the SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM for three young people, two on Saturday evening and one on Sunday morning.

It was also challenging because we were without air conditioning in the sanctuary, due to the installation of the new AC units for the facility. However, we managed just fine, and attendance was good. This weekend, we are anticipating the new AC to be installed and working (not guaranteed!), but the forecast is also for temperatures to be very comfortable – so dress accordingly!

I encourage you to check out the Spiritual Journeys gathering that is occurring at our church this Thursday, August 16, 10:00 p.m. Youth and adults have been assembling to experience various ancient Christian worship forms (prayers, chants, etc.), and to deepen their faith/relationship with God. This next gathering will be held outside in the Prayer Labyrinth, around a fire pit, and will include "Faith Fishbowl" in addition to prayer. This is an exercise in which questions are written on paper (anonymously) and placed in a fishbowl, drawn out one at a time, and then discussed. The questions may deal with general and/or specific issues surrounding faith. The goal is to conclude around 11:00 p.m. One of the youth is bringing cookies, and the coffee and hot water will be "on." You are invited to join us on our "journey."

This weekend, our worship theme deals with faith mentors in our lives whose life examples have helped us on our spiritual journeys. In worship, you will have the time to reflect upon those people in your lives who have been important faith models for you. We will also be offering prayers and anointing for healing during our communion celebration on Sunday morning.

We are also seeking prayer participants for our "GOD'S PEACE FLOWING THROUGH US" Prayer Vigil, which will begin 24 hours prior to our kick-off event on Sunday, September 9. A sign-up poster is in the narthex, and volunteers are sought for pray for peace (world, community, spiritual) in 30 minute time slots. The vigil will be held in the chapel, and a book of prayers will be available to use. On Saturday night, a group of members will be camping on the church grounds, and taking turns participating in the prayer vigil. I hope you will consider participating in this important ministry!

Jeremiah's Letter, the Lutheran urban ministry organization, is launching a new outreach program, and you are invited to participate. On August 24 and 25 (Friday and Saturday), Miami Valley Lutherans will be gathering in the Old North Dayton community to share God's love with a young man whose home is in great need of help: inside clean up and repair, outside clean up, painting. Many hands are needed to help, and volunteers are also needed to help provide lunch for workers. Due to the nature of this project, all volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. If you are interested in sharing some time to help, please contact Jeremiah's Letter director Terry Bruns.

Please remember, as St. Paul encourages us, to keep each other in prayer to remain strong in the faith! Let's gather for worship this weekend!

In Christ,
Gary

Songs from Vacation Bible School

The children who attended Vacation Bible School sang during worship last Sunday. Surrounded by decorations from "The Great Bible Reef," they enthusiastically sang a number of songs that they learned during the previous week. Thanks to Elizabeth Beal for working with the children during Vacation Bible School and leading them in worship! We look forward to the children joining us again this fall in the Sonshine and Joyful Noise choirs.

Music for August 12

Service of Holy Communion, Setting Nine from Evangelical Lutheran Worship

Prelude - How Great Thou Art, by Wilbur Held
Processional Hymn - O God, Our help in Ages Past, ELW 632
Hymn of the Day - Faith of Our Fathers, ELW 813
Music at the Offering - Norma Nawroth, soprano - In Joseph's Lovely Garden
Music During Communion - Norma Nawroth, soprano - Now the Silence, by Vajda/Schalk
Hymns During Communion - Great is Thy Faithfulness, ELW 733; Give Thanks for Saints, ELW 428
Post Communion Canticle - Now, Lord, ELW 201
Sending Hymn - Lead On, O King Eternal, ELW 805
Postlude - Sonata V, Allegro maestoso, by Felix Mendelssohn

A Message from Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

We conclude Vacation Bible School tonight with a cookout dinner (hamburgers, brats and metts), followed by an evening of activities, sharing, and ice cream. Dinner is served in the fellowship hall at 5:30 p.m., activities run from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., and then we assemble in the sanctuary for a music sharing program. The evening concludes with ICE CREAM! I hope you can share in the activities this evening.

Special thanks to all the VBS VOLUNTEERS who helped with planning, decorating, and leading the various activities, including working in the kitchen! It has been a monumental effort that required the shared gifts of many. We have one more request for assistance. Immediately following worship this Sunday (August 5), we need to dismantle the decorations in the sanctuary and throughout the building. If you can share any amount of time, we will begin around 11:00 a.m. Most of the decorations were created through a collaborative effort between three Lutheran congregations: Our Savior, First (Xenia) and Good Shepherd (Kettering) – a great pooling of God's gifts!

During worship this Sunday, VBS Children will present a collection of special music they learned this week, praising God with their voices!

This weekend, our worship theme deals with our priorities in life and what we value most. Something for all of us to ponder: are we always aware that we are at the top of God's list of priorities? As we think on that, may we be open to the Spirit's prodding to place more value on our relationship with God.

Hope you are having a great summer. See you in worship this weekend!

In Christ,

Gary

VBS Kids Sing in Worship August 5

Our Vacation Bible School participants are presenting their praises to God during our 9:45am service of worship this Sunday, August 5. After service, everyone is invited to help with our decoration deconstruction, as we celebrate the end of a wonderful week of faith, friends, fun, and fellowship in The Great Bible Reef, Vacation Bible School. Be sure to come join us in worship this Sunday!

Looking for a Choir to Join?

If you've found this page because you're a singer looking for a church choir to join, consider the Chancel Choir of the Lutheran Church of Our Savior.

Our Chancel Choir is directed by our Director of Music, Ginger Minneman. The Chancel Choir helps lead worship weekly at our 10:30 a.m. Sunday service from September through early June. This is a liturgical service that is rich in the heritage of the church--the psalms and parts of the liturgy are chanted, the lessons set out in the Revised Common Lectionary are read, the Word is preached, hymns are sung, and inspiring preludes and postludes are played on a pipe organ. Holy Communion is celebrated at every service. Lay people participate in many worship leadership roles, including readers, acolytes, crucifer, torch bearers, book bearer, worship assistants, communion assistants, ushers, greeters, and choir members. (For descriptions of all of our services click this link.)

The Chancel Choir sings music which Ginger chooses from a wide variety of treasures of the church. A sampling from last year:

- I Will Not Leave You Comfortless, Everett Titcomb
- Clap Your Hands, John Rutter
- Vos Omnes, Pablo Casal's (sung in Latin)
- Blessed be the Name of the Lord, Dale Grotenhuis (based on Psalm 13)
- No Rocks A'Cryin, by Rollo Dillworth
- Sanctus in d minor (BWV 239), J.S. Bach (sung in Latin)
- Offertory, John Ness Beck
- My Master From a Garden Rose, E. Daley
- See What Love, from the Oratorio St. Paul, Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy
- Praise the Lord (A Processional Song), arranged by Ralph Johnson
- Open Thou Mine Eyes, John Rutter
- Cantate Domino, Guiseppe Pitoni, Ed. by Norman Greyson (sung in Latin)
- The Cross, Pamela Martin/Craig Courtney
- Agnus Dei, from Solemn Mass, L. Vierne (sung in Latin)
- Salvation is Created, P. Chesnokov
- Ubi caritas, Maurice Dureflé (sung in Latin)
- Blessed are the Men Who Fear Him from Elijah, Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy
- Wondrous Love, Alice Parker & Robert Shaw
- Song, Bob Chilcott
- Kyrie, from Messe G-Dur, Franz Schubert (sung in Latin)
- Walk with Me (An African Walking Song), Patrick M. Liebergen
- Ave Verum Corpus, William Byrd (sung in Latin)

The Chancel Choir rehearses on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. An announcement will be made on this blog within the next week about when rehearsals for the upcoming school year will begin.

Consider joining us for worship, music, fellowship, and the opportunity to serve. For more information about the Chancel Choir and our church, browse this blog and contact Ginger Minnenan. Contact information is on the church home page.

Bell Choir Needs New Members

It's hard to believe that it's already time to start thinking about the fall!

If you've ever thought about joining the handbell choir, please consider joining this year. Because of people moving and youth going away to college, we need new people to join us this year.

The handbell choir is intergenerational. It is made up of youth and adults. Some families have found it to be a great family experience - we've had parents play with their children, and grandparents play with their grandchildren.

You don't have to have any experience in ringing - if you have ever sung in a choir, taken lessons on an instrument, or you have other exposure to reading music, you can learn to ring handbells quickly. Joe Beal has volunteered to lead some introductory sessions for new ringers, and when you start playing with the whole group, we'll put you on one of the easier positions and assign a current member to help you out. Regular rehearsals are held each Sunday during the school year after the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. We'll announce the beginning schedule once we find out who will be with us this year.

For more information, contact Dick Freudenberger or Ginger Minneman.

The Great Bible Reef

When you arrive at church next weekend, you'll find that the building, including the sanctuary, has been decorated for Vacation Bible School, which will be held July 30-August 3. (If you can help decorate any time from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturday, July 28, call Rachel. Lunch will be provided.)

The theme of VBS this year is "The Great Bible Reef." During VBS, lessons of "life on the reef" will be brought to life, teaching participants about caring, helping, trusting, believing, and listening. These wonderful lessons will be reinforced through music, drama, crafts, recreation and classroom time. VBS is in the evenings. Classes and activities are for both children and adults, and dinner is served each evening. For more information, click on the VBS link at the LCOS homepage.

Children who participated in VBS will share some of the music that they learned with us during worship on August 5. We look forward to that.

Also, in conjunction with VBS, we will be continuing our drive to raise funds to build fish farms in developing countries. This is part of the ELCA Word Hunger Appeal's project called "Global Barnyard."

Thanks for the Music

I'm back from vacation, so hope to start posting more frequently again.

Thanks to our soloists in Sunday worship for the last two weeks. On July 15, Stephanie Lytle sang Sing Ye a Joyful Song, by Antonin Dvorak. Yesterday, Moira Levant played her own arrangement of Shule Aroon on the violin. We appreciate both of them sharing their talents with us in worship.

A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

This weekend, our Gospel lesson is the story of the Good Samaritan, which is a timeless story overflowing with a myriad of faith images. The Health Ministry Team will host blood pressure screenings after both worship services, and we will also offer prayers and anointing for healing during our communion celebration on Sunday.

We will also have an opportunity to participate in God's Global Barnyard this weekend. Sponsored by the Social Ministry Committee, this Hunger Appeal seeks to supply people in poor countries with animals and the skills needed to raise them, helping to break the cycle of chronic hunger and poverty. Please prayerfully consider participating, in any way, in this appeal.

Next Tuesday, July 17, the Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant at the Greene, in Beavercreek, will hold a Benefit Show for WE CARE ARTS (one of our mission partners). Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m., and the show, Different Strokes Comedy Tour, is at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $30/person, which includes dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, and a "clean comedy show"; tickets must be purchased in advance. Call We Care Arts at 252-3937. We Care Arts benefits only from dinner proceeds, so if you only wish to attend the show, you purchase your ticket at the door.

It's not too late to register for VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL! From Monday, July 30 to Friday, August 3, children ages 4 through grade 6 will explore "The Great Bible Reef", as they dive deeply into God's Word. Dinner is served in our fellowship hall at 5:30 p.m. each day, and learning activities run from 6:00-8:15 p.m. Jr. High and High School Youth will be assisting adults in leading various activities. An Adult Class will meet in the parlor (off the sanctuary). Terry Bruns and I will lead the class discussion on "Teaching our children/grandchildren to pray – nurturing their spirituality".

Thought for the Week
Before the Lord wills me to do anything, He first of all wills me to be. What I do must depend on what I am. (Thomas Merton, No Man Is An Island)

May God bless your week with added time for yourself and your family! And may our paths cross in worship this weekend.

In Christ,
Gary

Thanks . . .

. . . to Ginger Minneman for singing during the offering yesterday. Ginger sang "King of Glory, King of Peace" by K. Lee Scott. Ginger is our Director of Music and the Director of our Chancel Choir. She teaches music at Wright State University and solos frequently in the Dayton area. It's always a treat to hear Ginger sing, and we thank her for sharing her voice with us in worship.

Thank You to the Kettering Community Chorus

Thank you to the Kettering Community Chorus and their director Marvin Heilman for sharing their talents with us in worship this morning. Their gift of music was inspiring.

A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

This Sunday in worship, The Kettering Community Chorus will bring us the message in music. The chorus is all volunteer, and is under the direction of Marvin Hileman. The chorus was last with us in worship in 1999, and it will be a joy to have them with us again this Sunday.

Sunday, we will also celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Baptism.

The AC is still working in the sanctuary – praise God!

Thought for the week:

Playing the guitar is like telling the truth – you never have to worry about repeating the same lie if you told the truth. You don't have to pretend, or cover up. If someone asks you again, you don't have to think about it or worry about it . . . because there it is. It's you. - B. B. King

May the Spirit help you to be the person you were created you to be – nothing more . . . or less!

In Christ,

Gary

Kettering Community Chorus Joins Us Next Sunday, June 24

Next Sunday, June 24, the message for the day will be provided by the Kettering Community Chorus, under the direction of Marvin Hileman. The Kettering Community Chorus is in its 18th season. The Chorus sings sacred and secular music in nursing homes, churches, and for community events. They last joined us in 1999. It will be a joy to have them help us lead worship next Sunday.

An Opportunity to Serve

In his sermon yesterday, Pastor Gary spoke about the Gospel reading for the day, Luke 7:36-8:3. In this reading, a Pharisee invited Jesus to dinner, and a "woman in the city, who was a sinner" also showed up. The sermon was about how unexpected things come unto our lives when we invite Jesus into our lives, and how many of these unexpected things include the blessing of being entrusted to serve others, as the woman served Jesus.

An opportunity to serve others that was lifted up to us yesterday is "A Rainbow of Caring." This is a program of the Church World Service to provide blankets and tools to people who have been dispossessed. For example, a contribution of $5.00 provides a sturdy blanket to warm the night or provide shade during the day. On display in our chancel is a sample of the blankets provided and some tools. You can find out more about this at www.churchworldservice.org and www.buildavillage.org.

Thank You . . .

. . . to Laurie and Elyse Fenstermacher for singing The Gift of Love by Hal Hopson during the offering this morning.

Healing Prayers This Sunday

This Sunday, June 17, is the third Sunday of the month. On the third Sunday of each month, we offer special prayers for healing during the 9:45 a.m. service. Healing means to make "whole" in body, mind and spirit. During communion, everyone who wishes to do so is invited to receive the laying on of hands by our pastor, a blessing, and anointing with oil.

"The Gift of Love"

The Gospel lesson this weekend (Luke 7:36-8:3) is about an encounter between Jesus, a Pharisee who asks Jesus to eat with him, and "a woman in the city, who was a sinner." The woman washes Jesus' feet and annoints them with ointment. The Pharisee criticizes Jesus for associating with the woman. Jesus, however, forgives the woman's sins, and speaks to the Pharisee about the great love that she has shown toward Jesus.

In showing love to others, we show our love of Jesus as he would have us do. Hal Hopson's song The Gift of Love asks for inspiration to act toward others in love: "Let inward love guide every deed; by this we worship, and are freed."

The Gift of Love will be sung this Sunday during the offering by Laurie and Elyse Fenstermacher. Laurie is a member of the Chancel Choir. Laurie's daughter, Elyse, sang with the Chancel Choir while she was in high school. Elyse currently attends St. Olaf College in Northfield Minnesota, where she is a member of the renowned St. Olaf Choir. We look forward to hearing Laurie and Elyse sing.

The lyrics of The Gift of Love are by Hal Hopson (1933- ), who set them to a traditional melody. Mr. Hopson is prolific American composer of church music who has (among other things) arranged many classic pieces for small ensembles.

Other music this Sunday:

• Setting Four of the Service of Communion from Evangelical Lutheran Worship
• Prelude: My Faith Looks Up to Thee, Dale Wood
• Entrance Hymn: Praise My Soul, The King of Heaven, ELW 864
• Hymn of the Day: Borning Cry, ELW 732
• Hymns during Communion: Healer of Every Ill, ELW 612; O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts, ELW 658; My Faith Looks Up to Thee, ELW 759
• Sending Hymn: Give to Our God Immortal Praise, ELW 848
• Postlude: Give to Our God Immortal Praise, Michael Burkhardt

A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

This weekend's lessons lift up confession and forgiveness. As we gather in worship, we come into God's presence not because we earn it, but purely as an act of God's grace. The lessons introduce us to a pair of the world's great sinners – and we take our place among them, hungry to taste the wonderful love of God. How fitting then, that during worship on Sunday, we will celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Baptism.

This weekend in worship we will also learn about Rainbow of Caring, a program which supplies blankets and tools to people in need throughout the world. A contribution of $5.00 provides a sturdy blanket to warm the night or provide shade during the day. Our Women of the ELCA organization is hosting this project.

Next Sunday (June 24) we will be led in worship by THE KETTERING COMMUNITY CHORUS. They will present the message of the day through music. It will be a blessing to have the Chorus with us in worship!

Remember: this Sunday is Father's Day.

And, hey – we still have AC in the sanctuary!!

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
How can someone ever trust in the existence of an unconditional divine love when most, if not all, of what he or she has experienced is the opposite of love – fear, hatred, violence, and abuse? They are not condemned to be victims! There remains within them, hidden as it may seem, the possibility to choose love. Many people who have suffered the most horrendous rejections and been subject to the most cruel torture have been able to choose love. By choosing love they became witnesses not only to human resiliency but also to the divine love that transcends all human loves. Those who choose, even on a small scale, to love in the midst of hatred and fear are the people who offer true hope to our world. – Henri Nouwen

May God's blessings surround you this week and bring you peace and joy!

In Christ,

Gary

Summer Punch Bowl

During the summer, we have a reception every Sunday after the 9:45 a.m. service. Thanks to Shirley Coen, Tricia Murphy, and the rest of the Christian Education Committee for bringing delicious cookies and brownies and for hosting yesterday's reception. We have the reception outside whenever we can. As you can see from this picture, yesterday was a beautiful day.

Music for the Second Sunday after Petecost, June 10

During the offering this Sunday, Dan Minnenan, bass, will sing Life as a Father, by John Prindle Scott (1877-1932). Prindle was an English composer best known for setting scriptural texts to music for solo singers. We thank Dan for singing this week.

Other music:

ELW Setting Four of the Communion Service
Prelude: Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee, Robert Hobby
Entrance Hymn: Oh, For a Thousand Tongues to Sing, ELW 886
Hymn of the Day: Lord, Speak to Us, That We May Speak, ELW 676
Hymns During Communion: Abide with Me, ELW 629; I Am the Bread of Life, ELW 485
Sending Hymn: I'm So Glad Jesus Lifted Me, ELW 860
Postlude: I've Just Come from the Fountain, Michael Hassell

The Color Green

If you've come to this site before, you'll notice that we've changed the color scheme to green.

Green is the liturgical color that is used by many denominations, including the ELCA, during the Sundays after Pentecost. The Gospel readings that are read during worship in this season emphasize the teachings and ministry of Christ. The color green is used to symbolize our growth in faith as we experience these readings in worship.

If you come to our services next weekend, you'll see that the paraments that hang on the altar, lecturn, and pulpit have been changed to green, as well as Pastor Gary's stole and chasuble. The next changes will occur in the fall when we celebrate Reformation (red), All Saint's Day (white), and the festival of Christ the King (white), then turn to blue for Advent.

For more information on the meaning and use of liturgical colors, click on this link to go to the ELCA's FAQs about worship: Liturgical Colors.

This Year's Confirmands

I just received this picture that was taken of our confirmands on Pentecost, the day they were confirmed. Congratulations to Andrew David Dickerson, Emily Susan Kugel, Nicole Joann Martinez, Morgan Leigh Nandrasy, Alec John Snead, and their families. Thanks to Pastor Gary for helping to lead these youth on their faith journey.

Our Pastor's Weekly Ministry Update

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

We still have AIR CONDITIONING in the sanctuary while we wait for the new system to be installed!! Thanks to Ron Iverson and the members of the Property Committee, we are able to temporarily utilize the old AC system in the sanctuary that was disconnected in anticipation of the installation of the new system, but not yet dismantled. This is truly a blessing, as it will be mid-August before the new system is installed. As we say at camp, God is good – all the time!

Last Sunday, Sharon and Pat Griffy renewed their marriage vows during worship, and then treated all who could stay to a grand post-worship catered meal. Thank you, Sharon and Pat, for choosing to include our community of faith in your celebration!

This weekend, our lessons include two miracle stories in which God raises two people from the dead, which is what our Lord does for us each day by breathing forgiveness, hope and new life into us through the Holy Spirit. At the conclusion of both worship services (Sat., 5:30 p.m., and Sunday, 9:45 a.m.), the Health Ministry Team will offer free, confidential blood pressure screenings for all who wish to participate.

On Saturday, June 9, Christ Lutheran Church (one of our mission partners) is hosting a Community Block Party in Old North Dayton, from 1 – 3 p.m. Individual and family volunteers are invited to assist with set up, tear down and staffing the booths. Please prayerfully consider sharing an hour or more of your time between 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you are interested, or have questions, please contact the pastor of Christ Lutheran Church.

Thought for the week:

"I myself do nothing. The Holy Spirit accomplishes all through me." – William Blake

May God's blessings fill you with hope and joy this week so that you may live the life God has in store for you. See you in worship.

In Christ,

Gary

Chancel Choir Picnic

This year's Chancel Choir picnic will be this Friday, June 8th, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. The following will be provided:

• Hotdogs and brats
• Iced tea and lemonade
• A hot grill

Bring a dish to share. You can also bring other items to grill, if you want something fancier. If you haven't signed up on one of the sign-up sheets, please call Sonia to let her know you're coming and what you can bring. See you there!

A Big Ending to the Choir Season

Yesterday was the end of the choir season, and all of the choirs participated in the service. Thank you to all of the choir members and their directors:

• Chancel Choir - Ginger Minneman, Director
• Sonshine Choir - Elizabeth Beal, Director (thanks to her husband Joe for substituting for Elizabeth, who was unable to attend yesterday)
• Joyful Noise Choir - Celeste Hoerner, Director
• Bell Choir - Richard Freudenberger, Director

Thanks also go to Sonia Davila for accompanying the Sonshine Choir and to Phil Hanna for singing a solo with them.

As always, we appreciate the talents of our organist, Rachel Spry.

Our music team is lead by Ginger Minneman as Music Director. Ginger's talent, creativity, cheerfulness and enthusiasm make her a joy to work with, and inspire us to keep pushing ourselves to grow as church musicians.

The choirs will resume in September. In the meantime, we look forward to hearing soloists and small groups singing and playing through the summer.

Saturday

Thanks to Terry Bruns for leading our service yesterday evening in Pastor Eichhorn's absence. Terry's sermon, based on the readings for Trinity Sunday, was about wisdom and hope. May the wisdom of the Holy Spirit lead you to walk in hope, trusting that you can take the next step toward doing what God wants you to accomplish.

Worship Committee Meeting

The Worship Committee will meet on Saturday, June 9, at 10:00 a.m.

Summer Worship Schedule Begins this Weekend

In the summer, we have one worship service each Sunday. It is at 9:45 a.m. In September, will return to having two services at 8:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Our Saturday service is at 5:30 p.m. year round. As noted below, this service is held outdoors in the Prayer Labyrinth, weather permitting.

Please join us for one of our services this weekend.

Choir Rehearsals on June 3

Choir rehearsal times for Sunday, June 3:

• 8:55 a.m. - Bell Choir
• 9:00 a.m. - Sonshine Choir
• 9:00 a.m. - Joyful Noise Choir
• 9:15 a.m. - Chancel Choir
• 9:45 a.m. - service begins

From Our Pastor - Ministry Update

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

It was a wild weekend in worship, as we celebrated the Festival of Pentecost. Saturday night worship moved outside for the first time this year, and it was grand!

On Sunday, at the 10:30 service, five of our youth affirmed their baptisms in the Service of Confirmation. The five were Andrew David Dickerson, Emily Susan Kugel, Nicole Joann Martinez, Morgan Leigh Nandrasy, and Alec John Snead. In the worship procession, 3 of the confirmands carried poles with red streamers, and on one pole was also attached a dove kite, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. I am thrilled to announce to you that before the procession reached the chancel steps, we had captured the Holy Spirit(!), as the streamers from one pole became completely tangled up with the dove kite. It was great to watch from the rear of the procession! Needless to say, our five new adult members of Lutheran Church of Our Savior are ready to serve the congregation in their new capacity, and I am proud to have had the privilege to work with them in Confirmation over the last two years! And it was a joy to worship with their extended family members yesterday. Special thanks to members of the Christian Education Committee, who hosted a reception in the confirmands' honor after worship.

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 3 OUR WORSHIP SCHEDULE CHANGES FOR THE SUMMER – 9:45 A.M. There will be no 8:15 or 10:30 Sunday worship throughout the summer. Saturday worship continues at 5:30 p.m.

Next Sunday, is also Music Sunday in worship (9:45 a.m.). The Chancel Choir, Hand Bell Choir, Sunshine Children's Choir and Joyful Noise Children's Choir will lead us in worship. Also, during worship, we will celebrate with Sharon and Pat Griffy as they affirm their marriage vows on the 25th anniversary of their wedding in the midst of our community of faith. Following worship, Sharon and Pat invite everyone to join them for lunch on the Parish House west patio. Your prayers and presence are the only gifts requested.

And also next Sunday, after worship (9:45 a.m.), the Youth Group will be holding a Bake Sale to support the HVAC project. So, stay for lunch, and then buy some dessert to take home with you!

Please keep in prayer the Southern Ohio Synod, which meets in assembly this Friday and Saturday at Capital University in Columbus. Terry Bruns is our lay representative.

May the Holy Spirit move you this week to share the Good News of Jesus with at least one person!

In Christ,

Gary

Music for Pentecost

• 10:30 service: Setting Four of the service of Communion from ELW.
• Prelude: Pentecost, by Everett Titcomb
• Entrance Hymn: ELW #367, Now All the Vault of Heaven Resounds
• Hymn of the Day: 8:15 service, ELW #396, Spirit of Gentleness; 10:30 service, Veni, Sancte Spritus (Taize)
• Offertory: 8:15 service, Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blest, by Paul Manz; 10:30 service, Chancel Choir, No Rocks A'Cryin, by Rollo Dillworth
• Sending Hymn: ELW #400 God of Tempest, God of Whirlwind
• Postlude: Toccata Giocosa, by Gilbert Martin

Today's prelude, Pentecost, makes use of the chant Veni, Creator Spiritus (Come, Holy Ghost, Creator Blest). Titcomb's choral anthem I will Not Leave You Comfortless, which our ChancelChoir sang two weeks ago, uses the same chant.

A Message From Our Pastor - Pentecost; Confirmation; Saturday Service Moving Outdoors

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

This weekend, we celebrate the 3^rd major festival of the church year: PENTECOST. This marks the day in which God poured out the Holy Spirit upon the believers in Jerusalem, and that same Spirit is still poured out upon believers in baptism today. The color of Pentecost is RED, and I encourage everyone to wear that color to worship this weekend. Red is the symbol of the blood of the martyrs. The word martyr comes from the Greek, meaning to witness one's faith. By virtue of our baptism, we are all martyrs – witnesses for Jesus.

During the 10:30 a.m. worship service we will celebrate with 5 youth who will affirm their baptismal vows in the Service of Confirmation. A special reception will be held in their honor following worship.

The Saturday (5:30 p.m.) service moves outside in the Memorial Prayer Labyrinth this weekend. Special thanks to Judy Ault, Karen Roberts, and Rachel Spry, who filled the flower beds with new soil and flowers, as well as picked up plenty of debris from the trees. And special thanks to Carl Ault, who helped me clean out the pond.

REMEMBER!!!!!!! THIS IS THE LAST WEEKEND FOR 8:15 AND 10:30 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP – WE MOVE TO THE SUMMER SCHEDULE (9:45 A.M.) ON JUNE 3.

May God bless you this week, and may you follow the Spirit's prodding to join us in worship this weekend!

In Christ,

Gary

Pentecost

Acts 2:2-4. "And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability."

This Sunday, May 27, is Pentecost. The banners that will be hung in the sanctuary were made several years ago. Members of our congregation traced their hands on red fabric. The flames on the banners were made from the tracings.

Bell Choir

Just a reminder that the Bell Choir will rehearse after the 10:30 a.m. service this coming Sunday, May 27, and at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 31. We will play at the service on June 3.

The Ascension of Our Lord

This weekend, we celebrate the Festival of Ascension of Our Lord. The following is the music for our services on Sunday:

• ELW Communion Setting Four (10:30 a.m. service)
• Prelude: Deo Gratias, Healey Willan
  
• Entrance Hymn: Hail Thee Festival Day, ELW 394
• Hymn of the Day: Allelulia! Sing to Jesus, ELW 392
• Offertory: organ at 8:15 a.m. service, Lobt Gott, Ihr Christen, J.G. Walter; Chancel Choir at 10:30 a.m. service, O Clap Your Hands, John Rutter
  
• Hymns during Communion: Lord Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor, ELW 475; Like the Murmur of the Dove's Song, ELW 403
• Final Hymn: Crown Him with Many Crowns, ELW 855
• Postlude: Toccata, Gordon Young
  

Ascension; Saturday Service Moving Outside - A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

This weekend we celebrate THE FESTIVAL OF THE ASCENSION, the second of the three great festivals of the church (Easter, Ascension, Pentecost). Just as the disciples were beginning to understand Jesus' resurrection, he left them. But his visible absence made it possible for him to be in the world in a new way – through his Spirit. Even today, Christ is present with us through the community that gathers to celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism and Holy Communion, and receives the living Word of God's forgiveness and love.

We plan to move outside for Saturday worship on May 26. In preparation for that move, we will be working in the Prayer Labyrinth next Wednesday, May 24 in the afternoon, filling the raised flower beds with topsoil, planting flowers, and cleaning the pond. If you can help, stop by the church in the afternoon, or contact the church office.

THOUGHT OF THE WEEK
In his daily devotional book, Beyond Words, author and theologian Frederick Buechner writes, Compassion is the sometimes fatal capacity for feeling what it's like to live inside someone else's skin. It is the knowledge that there can never really be any peace and joy for me until there is peace and joy finally for you too.

May God bless you this week, and together may we celebrate in worship God's endless blessings for us.

In Christ,
Gary

Saturday Evening Service Moving Outdoors

Assuming that the weather cooperates, Saturday evening (5:30 p.m.) services will return outdoors to the memorial labyrinth on Saturday, May 26.

Our Saturday evening services are informal Communion services that follow the ancient four-fold pattern of gathering, Word, meal, and sending. The sermon is the same semon that is given at the Sunday services. Songs are accompanied by acoustical guitar and keyboard and range in style from folk to contemporary, with some "golden oldies" added to the mix. Some of our members attend this service regularly, and others attend it when they can't make it to church on Sunday.

As always, visitors are welcome.

Blessings on the Prayer List

One of the members of the Worship Committee pointed out the other day that our prayer list includes almost exclusively people who need help - people who are ill; people who have lost loved ones; people who have experienced a natural disaster; etc. She pointed out that we can also lift people up to God in thanks for blessings that have bestowed on them. We talked about this at our meeting today, and decided that we like the idea. So, be aware that you can put people on the prayer list when you want to thank God for blessings that have occurred in their lives.

Please communicate prayer requests directly to the church office. [Do not put any requests on this blog.]

I Will Not Leave Your Comfortless

The Gospel lesson this weekend is John 14:23-29. In this lesson, Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit:

"I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you . . . ."

Reflecting this lessson, the anthem that our Music Director, Ginger Minneman, has chosen for the Chancel Choir to sing at the offering at the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service is I Will Not Leave You Comfortless. This is one of Six Short Motets for the Greater Festivals of the Church by Everett Titcomb (1884-1968).

Everett Titcomb was director of music at the Boston Church of the Society of St. John the Evanglist for 50 years. His compositions were the outgrowth of a scholarly interest in plainchant and liturgy. First published in 1936, I Will Not Leave You Comfortless pays homage to the masters of Renaissance music with imitative, overlapping voices. At one point, the bass theme is the plainchant from the ninth century Veni Creator Spiritus. The motet is in a minor key that resolves on the last chord, and has been described as being achingly beautiful. It is sung a cappella.

Other music this Sunday:

• ELW Communion Setting Four (10:30 a.m. service)
• Prelude: Awake, My Heart with Gladness (Auf, Auf, Mein Herz), Paul Manz
  
• Entrance Hymn: Come, We That Love the Lord, ELW 625
• Hymn of the Day: Day by Day, ELW 790
• Offertory (8:15 a.m. service): The Savior's Blood and Righteousness, Margaret Vardell Sandresky
  
• Hymns during Communion: When Peace Like a River, ELW 785; O Day of Peace, ELW 711
• Final Hymn: We are Called, ELW 720
• Postlude: Christ Has Risen, Alleluia (Mfurahini, Haleluya), Keith Lolander (based on a traditional Tanzanian Tune) - piano and tamborine
  

A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

The photos from Greensburg, Kansas, or what used to be Greensburg, are eerie reminders of the 1974 system that spawned over 100 tornadoes in the Midwest and South, wiping out Xenia and doing 100 million dollars of damage to Hanover College (southern Indiana) where I was completing my junior year. Lutheran Disaster Relief (LDR), a collaborative ministry of the ELCA and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, was on site yesterday to assess the situation and begin planning for assistance. You may make monetary relief donations through the church, and designate them for Greensburg; we will inform you when donations of food, clothing, etc. will be accepted. For more information, check out news on the ELCA website: http://www.elca.org/news/blog.

The lessons for this weekend all revolve around visions: in our first lesson, Paul receives a vision from God telling him to visit another continent to share abroad the Good New of God in Jesus; in our second lesson, John the Seer receives God's vision of a new Jerusalem – an image of what it means to live with God. And in our Gospel lesson, Jesus provides for his disciples a vision of what life will be like when he is no longer bodily with them, as the guidance and comfort of the Holy Spirit are promised, and faith in Christ will be deepened.

And . . . don’t forget . . . this Sunday, May 13, is MOTHERS’ DAY!

Thought for the week:

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up. – Pablo Picasso

Let’s gather together in worship this weekend to celebrate God’s creative Spirit within each of us!

In Christ,

Gary

Worship Committee Meeting

The Worship Committee will meet this coming Saturday, May 11. The meeting will be at 10:00 a.m. at the church.

The Beginning and the End

See below for more information on the banner we used as a frontal on the altar this weekend.

We Filled the Cart!

Thanks to those who brought cereal to worship this weekend for the New Hope Food Pantry.

The Beginning and the End

This weekend's second lesson is Revelation 21:1-6, which includes the passage: "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end."

Earlier this year, eight of our Sunday School classes made banner panels representing different names of Jesus appearing in the Bible. The picture above is the panel that our Sr. High Sunday School class made. It represents "the beginning and the end," and will be displayed this weekend.

The class spent time over several weeks discussing the design for this panel, which evolved considerably from their first ideas. They used fabric paints, blending colors to produce a vivid effect. Members of the class are currently planning banners for a future occasion, and we look forward to seeing and displaying what they create.

Ubi cáritas et ámor, Déus ibi est.

This weekend's Gospel lesson is John 13:31-35. At the end of this passage, Jesus says:

"I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

The title of this posting translates into English as: "Where charity and love are, God is there." It is the first line of the anthem that the Chancel Choir will sing this Sunday at the offering during the 10:30 a.m. service. Ubi caritas is from Four Motets on Gregorian themes by Maurice Dureflé (1902-1986) and is based on an ancient plainchant melody.

Other music this Sunday:

• ELW Communion Setting Four (10:30 a.m. service)
• Prelude: This Joyful Eastertide, David Cherwien
• Entrance Hymn: Son of God, Eternal Savior, ELW 655
• Hymn of the Day: All are Welcome, ELW 641
• Offertory (8:15 a.m. service): Christ is erstanden, Johann Kaspar Ferdindand Fischer
• Hymns during Communion: Will You Let Me be Your Servant, ELW 659; Blest Be the Tie that Binds, ELW 656
• Final Hymn: Where Charity and Love Prevail, ELW 359
• Postlude: Grand Choer, William Faulkes

Bring Cereal to Church This Weekend

The Social Ministry Committee is asking that everyone bring breakfast cereal when you come to worship on May 5 and 6 to stock the shelves of the New Hope Food Pantry. Add a box (or more) to the grocery cart in the narthex. Any kind you'd like to share will be welcome. Hot cereals like oatmeal or grits; cold cereals – flakes, puffs or whatever shapes you like. Any and all kinds will help feed those who are hungry.

We had a great response on "Super Bowl Sunday." Let's fill the cart again! Remember: "Where charity and love are, God is there." (See the posting above entitled "Ubi caritas . . . .")

For more information about the work of our Social Ministry Committee click here.

A Message From Our Pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Special thanks to Pastor Robert Neeb for leading worship in my absence last weekend. I was out of the office for most of the week, working on/around the house, and (more important) getting in some great fishing (there is no other kind!). Saturday, I took some time to work with Lutheran sisters and brothers in the Rebuilding Together house that was sponsored by the Dayton Conference, and "captained" by our own Doug Hammer, with organizing help from Lee Scamp and Donna Gorrell. 76 Lutherans (yes, that's seventy-six) showed up to help, with 20 of them being LCOS member-disciples! A power-point slide show will be running in the narthex this weekend before and after worship, so you can see the work that was accomplished by congregations working together, which happens to be the theme of our lessons in worship this weekend.

This weekend, our Social Ministry Committee is sponsoring Cereal Days – bring one or more boxes of cereal (hot or cold) to worship and place in the grocery cart in the narthex. This is one more way we can help feed the hungry population in Dayton.

And . . . this Sunday, the Youth are hosting their annual Mothers' Day Brunch (yes, one week early) from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall. Proceeds will go to help fund their annual mission work. This summer, the youth will be attending the ELCA Global Mission Event, at The Ohio State University.

Thought for the week:
The world of reality has its limits; the world of imagination is boundless. (Jean-Jacques Rousseau)

Come together in worship this weekend, when we can celebrate God's boundless grace-filled imagination for each of us!

In Christ,
Gary