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After this, Jesus said (to fulfill the Scripture,) “I thirst.” A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his

mouth. When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up the spirit. (John 19:28-30) With the world gathered ‘round his curious wooden throne, the newly proclaimed King calls for a complicated toast. It’s the drink he didn’t receive at noontime back at Jacob’s well from the Samaritan woman. As His tongue tastes the sour wine, it is loosened to say, “IT IS FINISHED.” What is FIN-ISHED is that there in the eerie darkness, amidst his agony, Jesus has finally claimed HIS BRIDE – this whole sorry world full of sinners that today we call the CHURCH. Worse than the sour wine, is the cup of death the Father asked Him to drink. He drinks it, then cries out in victory, and still in total control of every scene, He bows His head and hands over His spirit. The cross hasn’t claimed His life. He gives it. The authorities with all their weapons believe they control the world. They can’t see the whole truth, and don’t begin to grasp the power of sacrifice and love.

THAT IS – ALL IN AUTHORITY BUT ONE Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed His last. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And when the CENTURION, who stood facing HIM saw that in this way HE breathed His last, he said, “Truly this man was the SON OF GOD.” (Mark 15:37-39) The Roman Centurion had been given the order and the AUTHORITY to carry out the cru-cifixion of Jesus even as Colonel Robert E. Lee had been given the order and the AUTHORI-TY to carry out the hanging of murderer, insurrectionist, serial evader of his debts and at last abolitionist John Brown at Charlestown, Va. on December 2, 1859. In his years in the Army, Lee had presided at the execution of deserters even as the Roman Centurion had presided over the gory executions in the troubled territory of Palestine.

(continued on page 2)

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(continued from page 1) The Centurion had heard all the taunts and recriminations those he was crucifying hurled at him. With their dying breath, condemned men had fearlessly cursed the Roman officer. What could the Centurion do in response – DRIVE MORE NAILS INTO THEIR ALREADY IMPALED BODIES? This man on Golgotha was different. HE DIED with a prayer upon HIS lips – calling out to God in anguish but also in hope. It struck the Centurion – changed him. He becomes the first human being in Mark’s Gospel to identify Jesus as the SON OF GOD. What is St. Mark endeavoring to convey to us here? - Isn’t Mark urging us to not curse oth-ers. “DIE LIKE JESUS” Mark says, “Call out honestly to God, and your witness will affect the very people working for your demise.” Pretty soon they will make the same good confes-sion for which you have given your life. May your prayer during Holy Week include this petition: “Spirit of God, put YOUR WORDS on my lips in times of darkness and suffering. And may THOSE WORDS have power to cap-ture the hearts of others.” A Blessed Easter to all,

.

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Christ’s light shines in our darkness. God’s love conquers hate. Spirit-given faith is stronger than fear. We come seeking you, Lord, please guide our paths. “And what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). May it be so. Amen.

Apr. 1 - 2 Fifth Weekend of Lent / Holy Communion at all services Apr. 8 - 9 Palm Sunday / Palm Sunday Processional during Sunday School / Fellowship Social afterwards Apr. 15 - 16 Easter Sunday - Please see the Holy Week Schedule (pg. 4) for more info. Apr. 22 - 23 Second Sunday of Easter Apr. 29 - 30 Third Sunday of Easter / Food Bank Weekend / Volunteer Recognition Weekend / Fellowship Social (Saturday & Sunday) after all services

We need your help to deliver the Easter lilies this year. It would mean so much to those who are unable to come to the church for Easter worship. It would only take a short amount of your time that one morning, but the rewards are so great. Please sign up below.

NAME: _____________________________ PHONE: ___________________

Easter Lily Dedications If you would like to sponsor an Easter Lily in the nave for the Easter worship services, please complete the form below and place it in the offering plate or return to the Church Office. $10.00 per plant. Money must accompany the sponsor form and must be in the Church Office no later than Sunday, April 9, 2017. No sponsor forms after this date, please. Make checks payable to St. John’s Lutheran Church and please put “Easter Lily” in the memo line. PLEASE NOTE: ALL Easter Lilies will be given to our shut-in members.

I would like to sponsor an Easter Lily by giving $_________ to: (please indicate specific fund amounts below):

Seasonal Decorations ______ Hunger Appeal ______ Memorial Fund ______

Media Ministry _______

Please PRINT clearly. ONE dedication per plant.

In Loving Memory of: _______________________________________

By ____________________________________________________

OR

In Honor of: ______________________________________

By _____________________________________________

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THINK ABOUT IT - Just as Peter, James and John “were weighed down with sleep”, we too can slip into this state - spiritually speaking. We can become numb or lazy and slowly fade away from the fervor of au-thentic faith. This is why the CHURCH, in Her wisdom, gives us the season of Lent. This is the time to refocus, to clear away the cobwebs, and to become “FULLY AWAKE”. Ultimately, we pray that these ef-forts will allow us to truly see HIS GLORY come EASTERTIDE.

Lent commemorates Jesus’ fast and temptation in the wilderness, which, according to the Gospel, lasted 40 days. Just as Jesus confronted his temptations during these 40 days, Lent helps Christians focus on our most basic need as sinners: forgiveness. The only way our Lord’s forgiving power can become effective in our lives is by our taking the initiative to confront our sins, confess them and repent of them. In short, Lent is a

season of penitence, and a time for spiritual renewal and growth in dedication and service. A simple service of prayer, song, scripture and a message will take place in our nave on each Wednesday of Lent. We hope that you will make worship every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. a part of your Lenten discipline.

Palm Crosses ~ We Need Help! Anyone who would like to help make crosses for Palm Sunday, please come to the Fellowship Hall on Friday, April 7th at 6:00 p.m. Kindly bring a pair of scissors to use.

April 9 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Palm Sunday Worship / Blessing of the Palms 9:15 a.m. Sunday School Procession through Nazareth with the donkey 12:00 p.m. Palm Cross delivery April 12 7:30 p.m. Holy Wednesday Holy Communion April 13 7:30 p.m. Maundy Thursday Holy Communion / Stripping of the Altar April 14 7:30 p.m. Good Friday Tenebrae Service April 15 5:30 p.m. Easter Vigil with Holy Communion / Renewal of Baptismal Vows April 16 8:00 a.m. Easter Sunday Worship with Holy Communion (by Intinction) 9:15 a.m. Easter Sunday will be celebrated in Sunday School 10:45 a.m. Easter Sunday Festival Worship (No Communion)

Throughout Holy Week there will be many opportunities to worship. Holy Week is the time when the church remembers the greatest events in God’s salvation his-tory, when God in Christ revealed the depth and the breadth of God’s love for us. Participation in Holy Week worship leads to a joyous Easter as we shout in ac-clamation, “Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!”

Palm Sunday Walk On Sunday, April 9, 2017, St. John’s Sunday School will lead a Donkey procession walk through Nazareth; rain or shine. All are welcome to join the walk. Everyone should meet in Fellowship Hall by 9:15 AM, and everyone is invited back to Fellowship Hall for light refreshments. Palms for the walk will be available in Fel-lowship Hall. Please dress according to weather, and Enjoy the Palm Sunday procession to the Nazareth Circle.

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PALM SUNDAY PROCESSION THRU NAZARETH

Imagine the excitement… The Messiah is coming to Jerusalem! The crowd presses in around the city gates, straining to see the lone figure riding on a don-key. There is shouting and laughing. Children dash in and out.

People are waving palms and throwing their coats on the ground to make a suitable path for the Messiah, Jesus Christ. "Hosanna! Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" The throng gives their acclaim to the King.

Once again, YOU can be a part of this exciting event as the Sunday School sponsors a procession for Palm Sun-day. The procession begins on Prospect Street as the Sunday School children, adults, leaders, and parents fall in line behind Harley the donkey and the processional cross. We will make our way up Broad Street to Center Street and to the Square. At the Square, we will read the Palm Sunday Story and sing a hymn accompanied by an ecu-menical Brass Choir. We will meet in Fellowship Hall by 9:15 AM, collect an offering, take the walk, and return to Fellowship Hall for light refreshments.

Everyone is invited to join in the procession on Sunday, April 9th, just as people did on the first Palm

Sunday. Join us for this special celebration!

MAUNDY THURSDAY The day before Good Friday is called Maundy Thursday. The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin word manda-tum, which means “commandment.” In the gospel of John, Jesus makes this statement during the Last Supper: “I am with you only a little longer… 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 eve-ryone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:33-35, NRSV). Maundy Thursday should always be a time of sharing with others, showing loving concern for one another, and partaking of Holy Communion. That is what the Lord asked of his disciples and asks of us.

Join us for worship at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 13th.

GOOD FRIDAY TENEBRAE SERVICE

The Tenebrae Service is a service in which we empha-size the solemnities of Christ’s death on Good Friday and prepare for the glories of Easter. The word “tenebrae” is Latin for darkness. The church is brilliantly lighted at the beginning of the service. The lights are dimmed as the service con-tinues until at the end, there is total darkness. The gradu-al extinguishing of the lights and candles is symbolic of the flight of the disciples and the resentment of the world leading to the final isolation of Jesus on the Cross. Just before the tolling of the bells, the Master Candle is car-ried out, signifying Christ’s death. After the tolling of the bells, the congregation says the Apostles’ Creed, standing at the words, “the third day He rose again.” The Master Candle is returned to the Altar at this time to acknowledge the meaning of the cross fulfilled. After the Benediction, the congregation is requested to leave in silence. The Tenebrae Service sets a mood of solemnity and somberness as we have witnessed God be-ing crucified. In keeping with the mood of this service and this day, the Pastors will not greet you at the door, and it is requested that you do not greet one another. Maintain the silence and solemnity until Easter Morning when the voice of the Angel will shatter the silence and the gloom with the words, “Do not be amazed: you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here.” Then your Easter joy will be complete.

Join us for worship on Good Friday, April 14th at 7:30 p.m.

The Church Office will be CLOSED on Good Friday, April 14th and on Monday, April 17th in observance of the Easter holiday.

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Grace Notes It’s become a tradition. Along with the fragrance of lilies permeating throughout the nave and the re-appearance of the Alleluia banner, the singing of George Frideric Handel’s glorious “Hallelujah Cho-rus” has become a significant part of our worship celebration on Easter Sunday. The choir looks for-ward to singing it, and likewise, the congregation looks forward to hearing this magnificent and stir-ring piece of music. As most of us know, the “Hallelujah Chorus” is part of Handel’s much larger work, Messiah, an oratorio (large-scale, un-staged composition based on a reli-gious text or Biblical story) that he wrote in 1741. The inception of the work began when Handel’s friend and patron, Charles Jennens, sent him a libret-to that he created from a collection of Biblical texts on the life of Christ. Handel agreed to write the music and estimated that it would take him about a year to complete. However, when a charitable or-ganization from Dublin offered Handel a generous commission to compose a piece for a benefit con-cert, he immediately got to work. Handel became so absorbed in his musical composi-tion, that he rarely left his house and hardly took time to eat. A friend, who visited Handel during the time he was composing, would find him sobbing with intense emotion as he worked on the manuscript. After finishing the “Hallelujah Chorus,” Handel cried out to his friend, “I did think I saw all Heaven before me, and the great God Himself.” In just twenty-four days, Handel had completed his masterpiece. The following spring, April 13, 1742, Messiah re-ceived its premiere performance for the Charitable Musical Society of Dublin, benefiting three chari-ties—the Society for Relieving Prisoners, the Chari-table Infirmary, and Mercer’s Hospital. Messiah was never intended for church performance, but rather was associated with community charity events, espe-cially during the Lenten season. In fact, for twenty-seven years, from 1750-1777, it was performed an-nually as a benefit for London’s Foundling Hospital.

Handel composed Messiah in three large sections—the prophecy and birth of Christ in part I, Christ’s passion and resurrection in part II, and part III focus-ing on the end times and connecting the resurrec-tion of Christ with our own future resurrection. In modern times, Messiah is frequently performed dur-ing the seasons of Advent and Christmas, presenting all of part I and then ending with the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Unfortunately, this placement of the mighty chorus causes some listeners to believe that the “Hallelujah Chorus” is the concluding movement of Handel’s oratorio. Instead, the movement comes at the end of the passion section and then is fol-lowed by nine more musical pieces that conclude the entire work. Yes, the “Hallelujah Chorus” is perhaps the climax and most glorious moment of Messiah, but it is not the end. There is still more to come. Likewise, Easter Sunday is certainly the highpoint of the Christian year, but it too, is not the end. Easter is not merely one day of glory and majesty, but it holds for us the promise and hope that there is more to come. It is the potential for new life and rebirth, for revival and reawakening, and for renewal and transformation. May the opening strains and soaring voices of our choir singing Handel’s great “Hallelujah Chorus” stir your hearts and bring you much joy this Easter day! Grace and peace, Janice Butz, Minister of Music

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A Message from the Director of Youth & Family Ministries

The first official promo for the 2018 ELCA National Youth Gathering has finally ar-rived! You will begin to see posters and more information in the coming weeks/months as I receive it. The information has been coming in very slowly, but once it picks up it gets a little crazy! All eligible youth (all youth currently in grades 7 – 11) should have received an infor-mational letter in the mail by now. We will be having an informational meeting on Sunday, April 23rd at 9:15 am in the Fellowship Hall. Please plan to attend in order to get an idea of what the Youth Gathering is, an intro-duction to the 2018 theme, and to have any questions you may have answered. Fundraisers are beginning to be planned as well. We will be holding a Clothing Drive Fundraiser this spring. If you and your family plan to do any spring cleaning and want to get rid of things, especially clothing items, please hold onto them until the beginning of May. Beginning on May 1st, we will begin to col-lect at the church! If you absolutely must get it out of the house before then, contact me and I can help you out! There will be more fundraisers finalized soon, but in the meantime, eligible youth and their parents will continue to gather together with me to meet and discuss any and all infor-mation as I receive it. This Gathering will be no different than the others in that it will surely be an exciting and fun-filled time for all in attendance! We will also continue with our regular events as well. We will have Palm Cross Making on Friday, April 7th beginning at 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall. No experience necessary, just come and learn how to make palm cross-es! That Sunday, Palm Sunday, April 9th, those Palm Crosses will be delivered to the shut ins! We will meet in the Fellowship Hall at 12:00 pm.

On April 16th, Easter morning, the Jr. High and High School youth will be sponsoring an East-er Egg Hunt for all other ages during the Sun-day School hour in their classrooms. They will be hiding the eggs for all the students to find! It should be a great time! Blessings, Jaime L. Taylor Director of Youth & Family Ministries

Palm Cross Making: On Friday, April 7th, meet in the Fellowship Hall at 6:00 pm to learn how to make palm crosses! These palm crosses will be used during the Palm Sunday Worship Service and will then be delivered to the shut ins.

Palm Cross Delivery: On Sunday, April 9th, Palm Crosses will be delivered to the shut ins. Please meet in the Fellowship Hall at 12:00 pm. Parents: Drivers may be needed for this event!

Sunday School Easter Egg Hunt: Sunday, April 16th, the Jr. High and High School youth will be sponsoring an Easter Egg Hunt during Sunday School for all Sunday School aged children!

UPCOMING EVENTS

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VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2017 Monday, June 12th – Friday, June 16th

9:00 am – 12 Noon St. John’s Lutheran Church, Nazareth

Ages 4 (by June 12) through 5th grade Helpers 6th grade and up are encouraged!

Maker Fun Factory: Created by God – Built for a Purpose! At Maker Fun Factory, kids discover that God made them—and for a purpose! Kids participate in memorable Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games, make and devour yummy treats, experience one-of-a-kind Bible adventures, collect Bible Memory Buddies to remind them of God’s love, and test out Sciency-Fun Gizmos they’ll take home and play with all summer long. Plus, kids will learn to look for evidence of God all around them through something called God Sightings. Donation: Registration by June 4th is $7 per child. Registration at the door is $10 per child. Please register as soon as possible to help with planning. Cash or check may be made payable to St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church with “Vacation Bible School” in the memo line. Please put completed registration forms and payment (together in an envelope) in the offering plate or in the Church Office mailbox. Child’s name: ___________________________________________ Child’s gender: ____________ Child’s age: _______ Date of birth: ______________ Last school grade completed: ________ Name of parent(s): ________________________________________________________________ Street address: ___________________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________________ State: _________ ZIP: _______________ Home Phone: _____________________ Parent/Caregiver Cell Phone: ______________________ Home email address: ______________________________________________________________ Home church: ____________________________________________________________________

Optional: If possible, please group my child with ________________________________________. WE NEED YOUR HELP! Yes, I am willing to volunteer!! _____ I am unable to volunteer _____ I am willing to donate supplies, please call me!! Yes _____ No _____ Best way to reach me – Email: ___________________________ Phone: ____________________

Crew (for church use only): __________

Allergies or other medical conditions: ______________________________________________ In case of emergency, contact: ___________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Relationship to child: __________________________ Who besides me can pick up my child: _____________________________________________

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PASTORAL ACTS

We extend our heartfelt Christian sympathy to the families and friends of the following members and friends of Saint John’s who passed into eter-nal life in the month of February & March 2017:

LARUE K. ROTH Friday, February 24, 2017

MAE K. BEAULIEU

Saturday, March 4, 2017

WALLACE “WALLY” G. KEEN, JR. Saturday, March 4, 2017

ANDREW T. SMITH

Thursday, March 16, 2017

JUSTIN CALDWELL Doris Pizzuto

Received in the months of March 2017:

We rejoice that those listed below have been liber-ated from sin and death by being joined in the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ through the sacrament of Holy Baptism in the month of February & March 2017:

VON MICHAEL MASTER-REYES Son of Bryan Reyes & Victoria Master

Born: November 9, 2014 Baptized: February 26, 2017

LUCY MARIE BUTZ

Daughter of Matthew & Kelly (Mignogna) Butz Born: June 27, 2016

Baptized: February 26, 2017

CHARLIE ANTONIO THOMAS SCARPA Son of Michael & Elizabeth (Starner) Scarpa

Born: October 18, 2016 Baptized: March 5, 2017

JEFFREY AARON SCHESSLER

Son of Peter & Kendra (Getz) Schessler Born: January 12, 2017

Baptized: March 12, 2017

LUKE ROBERT ANTONACCI Son of Robert & Nicole (Pettis) Antonacci, II

Born: June 7, 2016 Baptized: March 19, 2017

THANK YOU Many thanks to all who supported this year’s Banquet of Song, the annual benefit concert for the Nazareth Area Food Bank, which was held in our nave on Sunday, February 19. Apprecia-tion is given to the singers, both children and adults, for their beautiful songs; to the instru-mentalists who shared their musical talents; to our Social Ministry team and volunteers from the Food Bank who organized the reception; and to all who attended and generously gave in support of the Food Bank. The offering received at the concert totaled $4,739. It was a won-

derful event that offered great music, instilled community spirit, and provided outreach to our Nazareth Food Bank. Again, many thanks to all who supported this worthwhile cause!

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The deadline for all submissions for the May 2017 issue of THE MESSENGER is:

Monday, April 10th. You may leave printed ma-terial in the Church Office mailbox or you may email your article or announcement as a Word at-tachment to stjohnschurch@rcn.com. Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.

Bulletin Sponsors Needed St. John’s prints 450 worship bulletins for each weekend (three worship

services), plus additional copies for spe-cial worship services and events. Bulletin sponsors are needed to help offset the cost of printing the bulletins. Please consider sponsoring the week-

ly bulletins in honor of or in memory of a loved one. The weekly bulletin sponsorship costs $50, but can be split with two dedications for $25 each. Please sign up in the Bulletin notebook at the back of the Nave or call the Church Office at 610-759-3090.

FOOD BANK WEEKEND: April 29th & 30th

The Nazareth Area Food Bank needs to replenish its supply of cold cereal, pasta, spa-ghetti sauce, cans of soup and pork & beans, but we

also welcome any other items you would like to donate. We are also collecting paper products: facial & toilet tissue, paper towels, nap-kins, etc. The Food Bank also uses the large-sized brown paper bags so if you need to make room in your pantry, drop them off as well. THANK YOU!! The Nazareth Area Food Bank truly appreciates the continued generosi-ty and faithful support of the many members of St. John’s.

SAVE THE DATE HELPING HANDS MISSION TRIP Sunday, July 23 to Saturday, July 29

We will be going back to New Jersey. If you would like to join us even for a day or two it would certainly be appreciated.

Contact Gail Price at 610-704-8736 or Keith Shook at 610-533-6446. More details to follow.

Each month in your offering en-velopes, you will find a “Special Projects” envelope. These partic-ular gifts are designated each month to benefit those in need or to support a need within our church.

APRIL SPECIAL OFFERING: CEMETERY PERPETUAL CARE

Shortly after the founding of the Lutheran and Re-formed congregations in Nazareth in the 1800’s, a jointly owned and operated cemetery was created at the corner of Broad and South Streets. In the middle of the 1900’s, a second cemetery, Green-wood, was created on High Street. Each cemetery plot sold contained an amount of money for “Perpetual Care”. As you can imagine, the few dol-lars collected in the early part of the last century are not enough to cover all the upkeep of the two cemeteries. Several years ago, both St. John’s Lu-theran and St. John’s UCC began receiving on All Saints Sunday to supplement the operating costs of our cemeteries. Your contribution in the Special Offering envelopes this month will join with the investment income to pay for the grass cutting, snow removal, and general repairs. Thank you for supporting this special legacy.

SAVE THE DATES PASTOR SCHAEFFER’S

RETIREMENT CELEBRATIONS

Friday, June 23rd ~ 6:00 PM Dinner at Woodstone Country Club

Danielsville, PA

Sunday, June 25th ~ After Worship Catered Breakfast

Sunday, August 6th ~ After Worship Farewell Breakfast

Details will be in the May Messenger and in the Bulletin beginning May 5/6

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Groups Serving Christ Through St. John’s Church Fellowship this month will be on Palm Sunday, April 9th, and April 29th and 30th. The first, hosted by the Evangelism Committee, will be on April 9th following the Procession through Naza-reth with the donkey. The second, hosted by the Stewardship Ministry Team Will be on Saturday April 29th following the evening service and on Sunday April 30th following both services as part of our Volunteer Recognition Weekend. Evangelism Committee The Stated purpose of the Evangelism Committee is “to welcome and connect with others,” and “to share the Gospel with others and encourage them to do the same.” One of the many activities this committee performs in this regard is the connection with and support offered new members. They do this by greeting and conversing with prospective members, conducting church tours for them and others, distributing Welcome Bags which contain a variety of information about St. John’s, and maintaining a bulletin board with new member’s pictures so that others in our church may know and greet them. Stewardship Ministry Team The Stewardship Ministry Team guides the congregation on their faith journey in growing, develop-ing, and advancing the use of the many gifts with which God has blessed us. Each year the team selects a theme designed to inspire and enhance our understanding of stewardship living and giv-ing through biblical references and practical applications. Specifically, the annual Volunteer Recog-nition Weekend, Stewardship Dinner, and Stewardship letter are designed to raise awareness of the active volunteer Stewardship Ministry within St. John’s and the need for support through the shar-ing of our time, our talents, and our possessions. The Committee meets on the first Monday of each month. Come Join us for fellowship! Take a few minutes to chat with the representatives of this group and find out more about their activities and plans. You may find you would like to become part of their efforts.

April 9 ~ Evangelism (Palm Sunday Donkey Walk) during Sunday School hour

April 29/30 ~ Stewardship (Volunteer Recognition)

May 21 ~ Day Care / Property (Music Sunday)

June 5 ~ Christian Education (Pentecost/Confirmation Sunday)

2017 Fellowship Social Calendar

Let’s Get Those Cards Out and Wish a Blessed and Happy Birthday to Our Shut-In Friends

Celebrating This Month!

ROSLYN KAHLER April 14th

MHS #2205 175 W. North St.

Nazareth, PA 18064

ESTER FRANTZ April 5th

203 W. North St. Nazareth, PA 18064

JEAN HOFFERT April 28th

2267 Yost Rd. Bath, PA 18014

CATHERINE KERCHNER April 7th

202 N. Chestnut St. Bath, PA 18014

SANDRA STRAUSSER April 27th

2745 Washington St. Easton, PA 18042

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Hello Everyone! In holding to our goals to move St. John’s into the future, we have updated our email system as a part of our internet renovations. We ask you to please update your address books ac-cordingly. Below you will find a list of all the updated email addresses. It is important that you update these by April 30, 2017 because the old emails will eventually become inac-tive. We have taken measures to insure that none of your messages are missed during this transition. Please note that Pastor Schaeffer’s email address (dschaeffer@rcn.com) remains unchanged and will remain active until his retirement.

Linda Kasmakites, Parish Administrative Assistant Office@StJohnsNaz.org

Bonnie Mertz, Financial Secretary Finance@StJohnsNaz.org

Reverend Franklin Stinner, Associate Pastor PrStinner@StJohnsNaz.org

Reverend Janice Butz, Minister of Music JButz@StJohnsNaz.org

Jaime Taylor, Director of Youth and Family Ministries JTaylor@StJohnsNaz.org

Tony, Gary, Dean, Ray, Sextons Sextons@StJohnsNaz.org

If you have any questions, comments or concerns they can be directed to Raymond Wolfe at ray@stjohnsnaz.org.

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SEXTON CORNER

HELLO TO ALL! SPRING IS HERE!

There are projects we are planning to start this spring that will carry over into the summer months. Several of these projects are from the Capital Campaign and others are new for this year.

Do you have experience with electrical, plastering, painting, plumbing, woodworking, con-crete or welding? If so, please see Tony. We need your help to achieve our goals.

At the moment we are waiting on some funding from the Finance Committee to upgrade our telephone system. This is part of our Capital Campaign.

Replacement of the steel plates along the sidewalks in the alley have been completed. We will now re-place the remainder of steel plates around the church sidewalks including #38 Prospect Street and the Pas-tor’s house.

The upgrade of our sound system for the Fellowship Hall is getting closer (details will follow).

The remainder of the repair work on the nave organ is now scheduled for this spring 2017.

Upgrading of the other electrical panels is targeted for April 2017 (capital campaign).

In order to begin work on re-pointing the church bricks and chimney, we need a window of 5 days with temperatures in the 50 degree range, therefore, this project will begin in the spring. This is part of our Capital Campaign.

We will be moving ahead with the restoration of arch type stained glass windows (south wall alley/shepherd room) for the spring of 2017. This is part of our Capital Campaign.

We’ve got some indoor and outdoor cleaning activities coming up and we’d like to enlist the help of our youth. If you’d like to volunteer, please contact Tony.

Thanks for your time, The Sextons sextons@stjohnsnaz.org

PRAYER CHAIN ~ We pray that you will think of us when you have need for prayer. This includes you, your family members, or friends. Please call Betty Laubach at 610-

759-0225 or the Church Office at 610-759-3090. If you would like to join the Prayer Chain and be a part of this powerful minis-try, please let Betty or the Church Office know.

From the Staff at St. John’s:

Happy Easter

Pastor Schaeffer Pastor Stinner Pastor Butz

Jaime Patrice Linda Bonnie

Gary, Tony, Dean & Ray

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Stewardship – Volunteer Recognition

Several years ago when our Stewardship Committee introduced the annual “Volunteer Recognition Week-end”, we felt it was important to acknowledge the many parishioners who give countless hours to fulfill the work of the Church Committees outlined by the St. John’s By-Laws and Com-mittee Structure and beyond in our Church Community.

We believed then as we still now believe, that our volunteers were not looking for accolades for all that they do, to the glory of God. But it was our way of saying, “Thank You”, to all who gener-

ously give of their time and talent to enhance the worship services; to care for our beautiful Church; to care for the less fortunate in our community and around the world; to provide a welcoming environment to those seeking solace here as new members; to nurture and educate our children and youth through our Christian Education Program; to ensure we are fiscally sound; to bring beautiful religious art to our Shepherd’s Room; to bring glorious and diverse music to our sanctuary; and to be as one with us in our lifetime stewardship journey.

In a recent conversation with Rev. Stinner, he reminded us that all of you volunteers are really the stewards of our Church in the biblical sense. You are the caretakers of St. John’s, who watch over and care for it with love and devotion. In addition, he shared his thoughts that, “Stewardship is everything we do after we say, “I believe…”. Truly that is evident here, every day at St. John’s.

In conjunction with National Volunteer Week on 4/23 to 4/29, we here at St. John’s will celebrate Volun-teer Recognition to thank our volunteers, our stewards, at each service on the week-end of April 29 & 30. Come for the preaching of the Word, the fellowship with your church family, and the Fellowship Hours after each service that week-end. We look forward to seeing you…..please come!

With you in Christ, The Stewardship Committee

NEWS FROM THE DAYCARE ~ APRIL 2017

The month of March was lots of fun with Leprechauns, rainbows, windy weather and welcoming spring. For Dr. Seuss’ birthday the classrooms enjoyed reading some of his most popular stories and the Pre-k class-room had a wonderful trip to the Nazareth Middle School for Read Across America. The students there did a great job reading and playing games with our Pre-k students.

For St. Patrick’s Day the classrooms had lots of fun art projects and activities and the Pre-k classroom had a surprise visit from a mischievous leprechaun who made a mess in the classroom. They almost caught him with the trap they made, but he got away. At least he left some chocolate coins behind.

Now we are looking forward to April and hopefully more time outside. Many of the classrooms will cele-brate Earth Day, which is April 22nd, by talking about recycling and other ways to take care of the earth. All of the classrooms will be planning special celebrations for Easter and they are excited for their egg hunts and visit with the Easter Bunny.

Our program provides care for children 6 weeks through school age from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm. Our preschool curriculum is taught daily within our day. If you have any interest in learning about our center, please call 610-759-4999 or email lisat@rcn.com.

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HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER OF ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH?

If you or a friend of yours have been worshipping at St. John’s and decide to make it your church home, classes for New Members are scheduled

once a month, usually on the first Sunday of the month in the Church Parlor.

The class is about one hour long and presents an overview of the Lutheran faith as well as a brief history. After deciding to join, a time is scheduled during one of the worship services to welcome the new member. Questions? Please feel free to contact the Church Office at 610-759-3090.

HOW DO I SCHEDULE A BAPTISM? Baptism classes are held once a month in the Church Parlor for those wishing to be baptized or for bringing children to the font. Typically the class is scheduled the second Sunday of the month. During the class, the meaning and im-portance of Baptism are presented and if there are any questions concerning the ceremony or sponsorship, they can be addressed at that time.

You may call the Church Office to make arrange-ments for the date / time of the baptism, which can be scheduled either during or after the Saturday or Sunday worship services. Questions? Please feel free to contact the Church Office at 610-759-3090.

We have many fun crafts and lessons that focus on the Easter holiday for the beginning of our month, which concludes with an Easter Egg Hunt for each class! The rest of the month is filled with lots of fun projects that center on what we see outside during this time of year (rain, umbrellas, rainbows, caterpillars, butter-flies, and bugs of all shapes and sizes).

The 4yo class has their trip to The Crayola Factory in April. The children will have a wonderful time explor-ing fun arts and crafts to learn more about Crayola. Therefore, it is only fair that the 3yo class enjoy a day outside of the classroom. At the end of April, the 3yo class will enjoy a tour and story time at the Nazareth Library with Miss Catherine.

The 3yo class wrapped up their numbers in March and the beginning of April. So April and May are filled with great review games and lessons – Number Bingo is proving to be a class favorite! The children are recogniz-ing their names. To prepare them for writing their names, we are focusing more and more attention on their fine motor skill development by providing lots of independent play that enables them to hone these skills, as well as one-on-one lessons with fun activities that focus on hand/finger coordination and building strength.

The 4yo class will finished the alphabet in April then we will be in review mode – letters, shapes and colors and other concepts towards Kindergarten readiness (e.g., opposites, rhyming, sequencing, patterning, posi-tioning, alliteration, etc.).

Both classes are also having their Spring evaluations done in April – so parents are aware of their progress from the Fall.

The 3yo class meets Tuesday/Thursday and the 4yo class meets Monday/Wednesday/Friday. Both classes run from 9-11:30 am with an optional lunch bunch for the 4yo class that runs 11:30-1pm. For more infor-mation, please call (484-293-0720) or email LoveALotNurserySchool@yahoo.com the school.

Love-A-Lot Nursery School

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PRESENT: Joe Billy, Alan Butz, Rev. Janice Butz, Cathie Dara, Christine Garrison, Gail Price, Rev. David Schaeffer, Pastor Franklin Stinner, Jaime Taylor, Wayne Vierzbicki, Sharon Werner, Jackie Wolf. ABSENT: Chris Andrews, Stephen Bajan II, Craig Dally, Scott Little DEVOTIONS: Gail Price read “Here I am – Send Me” and ended with a prayer. MINUTES: The Minutes of the Jan. 25, 2017 meeting were reviewed and stand as written. Motion by Wayne V. to ac-cept the Minutes. 2nd – Christine Garrison. Motion passed. COMMUNICATIONS: Pastor Schaeffer handed out a copy of Forum Letter for council to take home and read. Com-mented on article written by Mark A. Granquist “What’s go-ing on at our seminaries?” Pastor Stinner commented on the struggles of the seminaries. PASTOR SCHAEFFER’S REPORT: Complete as written, including: 1. Jan. 29, 2017 - Council President Jackie Wolf did a fine

job presiding at the Annual Congregational meeting. 2. Jan. 29, 2017 – Pastor Schaeffer read his retirement

letter. The 33 years of my Pastorate at St. John’s have been fulfilling, a true delight. Since the Summer of 1977 you have been my “FIRST LOVE.”

3. Jan. 29, 2017 – Pastor Schaeffer & Carol drove to North Myrtle Beach for a few days of tranquility.

4. Feb. 11 – 12, 2017 – Youth Sunday – Youth made us as a congregation feel very proud. Thank you to Jaime Taylor and Janice Butz for recruiting and rehearsing our youth at such a high level.

5. Feb. 13, 2017 – Pastor Schaeffer met with Bishop Sam Zeiser at the Synod Office. Holy Spirit will guide all that is to come.

6. Feb. 19, 2017 – Andy Herbster did a fine job with the Helping Hands Temple Talk – 2 new people have signed up.

7. Jackie Wolf commented on the Call Committee – Com-mittee will meet with Pastor Lori Kochanski which will meet with St. John’s Church Council. Bishop Zeiser will be invited to attend this meeting also.

PASTOR STINNER REPORT: 1. Continue to do day to day visitations to our members.

Typical month. 2. Pastor Stinner will continue to attend as many commit-

tee meetings as possible. 3. With Pastor Schaeffer retiring in August, 2017, I hope to

work closely with all of you in the coming months so that we can make a smooth transition as possible with our ministries here at St. John’s.

4. I am confident I can do the pastoral work but will need your help.

5. Jackie Wolf commented – “KEEP POSITIVE ATTI-TUDE”!

REV. JANICE BUTZ REPORT: Complete as written, in-cluding: 1. Feb. 19, 2017 – Banquet of Song went well. 2. Janice is preparing a Lenten Card for our Wed. evening

worship services. 3. Feb. 25 – March 25, 2018 = “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”

2018 Arts Festival at St. John’s. DIRECTOR OF YOUTH & FAMILY MINISTRIES REPORT: Jaime Taylor reported: Complete as written including: 1. Feb. 12 – Pete Smith – Bear Creek Camp did a presen-

tation to recruit more kids from St. John’s to go to camp this summer.

2. Feb. 19 – Pajama Party event in the Fellowship Hall and was also our Bring a Friend Sunday.

3. June 27 – July 1, 2018 – Youth Gathering in Houston, TX – Jaime will have a general information meeting.

SAINT JOHN’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH CHURCH COUNCIL MINUTES

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH COUNCIL MINUTES

Feb. 22, 2017 7:30 p.m.

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COMMITTEE REPORTS FINANCE: Pastor Schaeffer reported: 1. Capital Campaign 80% of goal met. 2. Ray Wolfe has been conducting interviews with mem-

bers up in the parlor. 3. Security Deposit issue with 38 E. Prospect – 2nd Floor. COLUMBARIUM: Pastor Schaeffer reported: 1. The niche that had been returned was sold to a member

of the congregation. DAY CARE: Jackie Wolf reported: 1. Enrollment is good. 2. Cindy Paukovitch is working on a plaque in honor of

Doris Koehler. 3. Tuition will increase by 3%. ENDOWMENT: Pastor Schaeffer reported: No Meeting. EVANGELISM: Sharon Werner reported: No Meeting. HELPING HANDS: Gail Price & Jackie Wolf reported: 1. Andy Herbster did a great Temple Talk. 2. Volunteers will go to NJ from July 23 – 29th, 2017 LOVE-A-LOT: Wayne V. reported: Complete as written including: 1. Enrollment is looking up for next year. 2. The Valentine Ice Cream party lunch bunch getting

great reviews.

LUTHER LEAGUE: Jaime Taylor reported: 1. Discussed Youth Service, LYF, and VBS Helpers. PERSONNEL: Pastor Schaeffer reported: 1. Pastor Stinner was evaluated. PROPERTY: Joe Billy, Pastor Schaeffer, Pastor Stinner, 7 Wayne V. reported: Complete as written including: 1. Robe Closets were discussed. 2. 38 Prospect – Rent issue – Security Deposit discussed. SOCIAL MINISTRY: Cathie Dara reported: No Meeting 1. Banquet of Song – Very Successful – Great Fellowship

afterwards.

STEWARDSHIP: Jackie Wolf reported: 1. Christine Garrison will be the Stewardship Committee

Council Rep. 2. Giving Magazine – Diana Holva suggested that this be

put on St. John’s website.

SUNDAY SCHOOL: Jaime Taylor reported: 1. Going Well. 2. Feb. 19 – Youth Service Weekend – Kids did a nice job

creating their own vignettes. 3. Pete Smith from Bear Creek Camp did a very nice

presentation. 4. Pajama party event went well. 5. Feb. 26 – Transfiguration Sunday WORSHIP & MUSIC: Janice Butz reported: 1. Storage issue discussed. 2. Everything set for Lent. 3. Wayne V. – Will do lights for Lenten Service. 4. Church Council to wear all black on Ash Wednesday. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 1. Capital Campaign – Ongoing. 2. Fellowship Hall Rental – To Be Determined by Commit-

tee 3. Mentoring for Christine Garrison and Gail Price ongoing. 4. Feb. 26 – Council Luncheon to honor Ralph Deyo and

Jocelyn Starner. NEW BUSINESS 1. Wayne V. – April 7 – 6:00 p.m. Need help to make Palm

Crosses for Palm Sunday. Building Use Requests: 1. March 11 – WELCA – Joyce Wallace – Fellowship Hall

& Kitchen 2. March 12 – Baptism Celebration – Kendra Schessler –

Fellowship Hall & Kitchen 3. April 1 – Girl Scout Brownie Badge Bonanza – To Be

Determined 4. June 1 – Annual Blood Drive – Carol Schaeffer – Fel-

lowship Hall 5. June 23 – The Learning Experience Preschool Gradua-

tion – Need more discussion 6. Motion by Alan Butz to accept March 11, March 12 and

June 1. 2nd – Cathie Dara. Motion passed. Council President Jackie Wolf declared the meeting ad-journed at 8:50 p.m. The meeting closed with the Lord’s Prayer. Next Meeting = March 28 @ 6:30 p.m. Next Devotions = Wayne V. Respectfully submitted, Joyce Wallace Recording Secretary

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SERV

ING

GO

D IN

AP

RIL 2017

Please note the date you have been scheduled to serve. Kindly find a replacem

ent if you are unable to serve on your scheduled date, and notify the C

hurch Office. Contact the coordinator (in parenthesis) if you are unable to find som

eone to serve in your place. Sign-up books for Ushers, Altar Flow

ers, Bulletin Sponsors, and CD

Ministry Sponsors are found in the rear of the nave.

Date &

Tim

e of Service

GR

EE

TER

S M

aryellen Werkheiser

(610-759-5191)

AC

OLY

TES

Jaime T

aylor/Church

Office (610-759-3090)

LEC

TO

RS

Christina Brodt

(610-653-0358)

USH

ER

S C

hristina Brodt (610-653-0358)

Apr.

1 - 2

5:30 p.m.

Carolyn H

ill Elizabeth Rakos

Craig D

ally

8:00 a.m.

Youth

Bethany Daniels

Karen C

oleman

10:45 a.m.

Youth

Annie D

iRenzo

Christina Brodt

Ralph &

Christina Brodt, III, Sheria W

ells Elizabeth Brodt Z

imm

er & Peter Z

imm

er

Apr.

8 - 9 P

alm

Sunday

5:30 p.m.

Ludwig &

LuJean Gocek

Payton Reuber

Cindy Evancho

8:00 a.m.

David &

Susan Bittner Franklin &

Lourdes Whitem

an Em

ma R

icci Suzan A

ndrews

10:45 a.m.

Sue Werner, D

oris Pizzuto D

an & N

icole Statfield Q

uintin Woods

Craig D

ally C

raig & A

nn Dally

Brian & Judy Flick. Sheria W

ells

Apr.

15 - 16 E

aster

5:30 p.m.

Laurie Center

Jayde Rizzotto

Lenna Harris

8:00 a.m.

Gregus Fam

ily M

ilan & Sandra Billy

Anthony A

lbanese Edith Brodt

10:45 a.m.

Dara Fam

ily M

aryellen Werkheiser

Christopher Jennings

Gina D

iRenzo

Karlene K

ipp

Karlene K

ipp, Kathy K

eeler T

om &

Jocelyn Starner A

nnie Bickert, Am

ie Tracy

Roy R

oth, Joe Grim

, Sheria Wells

Apr.

22 - 23

Apr.

29 - 30

5:30 p.m.

Gerald &

Elaine Spangler Jordan R

euber C

harles Bonisese

8:00 a.m.

Gerry Edw

ards Ed &

Shirley Bajan C

aroline Hunter

Sharon Werner

10:45 a.m.

Ron &

Eileen Angelino

Evan Werkheiser, Sandy G

arr H

ailey Durner

Christianna H

unter G

erry & Suzanne Lew

is A

l & Lynne Babp, Sheria W

ells

5:30 p.m.

Dan &

Robin Guggenberger

Nathaniel R

ex H

arry Smith

8:00 a.m.

Lester & C

harlene Smith

Jean Master, Janice D

rosnock M

adelyn Rex

Edith Brodt

10:45 a.m.

Christine &

Irene Tripp Joan Johnson

Samantha G

arvey R

alph Brodt, III Brodt Fam

ily, Sheria Wells

19

SAINT JOHN’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, NAZARETH MISSION STATEMENT: Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church is a family of Believers of Christ, who worship together to be nourished by the proclamation of God’s Word and by the gracious gifts of Baptism and Holy Communion. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, through education and fellowship, we respond in obedience to God’s Word, without reserve, in service to the needs of all God’s creation. Saint John’s is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

VOLUNTEER CHURCH STAFF

Altar Flowers Steven Millheim 610-365-2343

Altar Guild Jocelyn Starner 610-759-3205

Bulletin Sponsors Church Office 610-759-3090

Church Council President Jackie Wolf 610-759-8609

Greeters Schedule Maryellen Werkheiser 610-759-5191

Helping Hands Gail Price 610-704-8736 Keith Shook 610-759-0594

Katherine Von Bora Society Susan Kelly 610-746-2231

Lectors Schedule Christina Brodt 610-653-0358

Love-A-Lot Nursery School Jolene LaBarre, Director 484-293-0720 LoveALotNurserySchool@yahoo.com

Luther League (Youth Group - grades 7 & up) Jaime Taylor 610-509-8288

Media Ministry Lois Davis 610-504-1635 lo.huthie@yahoo.com Nursery Attendant Kristin Andrews 610-504-6622

Prayer Chain Betty Laubach 610-759-0225

St. John’s Day Care Lisa Todd, Director 610-759-4999 lisat@rcn.com Sunday School Committee Lois Davis, Superintendent 610-504-1635 lo.huthie@yahoo.com Ushers Schedule Christina Brodt 610-653-0358

Women of the ELCA (WELCA) Joyce Wallace 610-330-9113

CONTACT US. . .

200 S. Broad Street, Nazareth, PA 18064-2801 Church Office 610-759-3090 Fax 610-759-3719 E-Mail office@stjohnsnaz.org Website www.stjohnsnaz.org

THE CHURCH STAFF

Senior Pastor: Rev. David B. Schaeffer dschaeffer@rcn.com 610-759-1571

Associate Pastor: Rev. Franklin S. Stinner prstinner@stjohnsnaz.org 610-746-9695

Minister of Music: Rev. Janice I. Butz jbutz@stjohnsnaz.org 610-882-9388

Director of Youth & Family Ministries: Jaime L. Taylor 610-759-3090 jtaylor@stjohnsnaz.org

Assist. Organist/Choir Director: Patrice A. Kidd 610-867-1330

Parish Administrative Assistant: Linda Kasmakites office@stjohnsnaz.org

Parish Financial Secretary: Bonnie Mertz finance@stjohnsnaz.org

Sextons: Gary Baltz, Tony Petrillo, Dean Brodt, Ray Wolfe, Jr. sextons@stjohnsnaz.org

COUNCIL COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

Building Trust Fund - Jeff Daniels (Special appt.) Day Care - Jackie Wolf Evangelism - Sharon Werner Helping Hands - Jackie Wolf, Gail Price Love-A-Lot Nursery School - Wayne Vierzbicki Personnel - Jackie Wolf, Gail Price Property – Joe Billy, Wayne Vierzbicki Social Ministry - Cathie Dara, Jackie Wolf Stewardship - Christine Garrison & Scott Little Sunday School - Jaime Taylor Worship & Music - Chris Andrews YEO Endowment - Donald Himler (Special appt.) Youth Representative - TBA

20

Volume CLXVI “To Know Christ and to Make Christ Known” Issue No. 391

The Messenger

IN THIS ISSUE… A Note from the Pastor .......................................... 1-2 Worship with Us! .......................................................... 3 Lenten Highlights………..………………………...5 Grace Notes ................................................................... 6 Youth News. .................................................................. 7 Pastoral Acts .................................................................. 9 Sexton Corner ............................................................. 13 Stewardship News ...................................................... 14 Daycare News.............................................................. 14 Love-A-Lot News ........................................................ 15 April Worship Assistants ........................................... 18 NEPA Synod News ..................................................... 20 2017

APRIL 2017

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 10:00 AM Philethia Choir 5:30 PM Worship w/HC (Confirmation Retreat Continues)

Sexton on Duty: Ray

2 5th Sunday in Lent 8:00 AM Worship w/HC 9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM NM/BAP Class 10:45 AM Worship w/HC (Confirmation Retreat Ends)

Sexton on Duty: Ray

3 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220 6:30 PM Property 7:00 PM Stewardship 7:00 PM Rebekah Circle

4 9:00 AM Ladies Aid 4:00 PM JAM Sessions

5 9:30 AM Ruth Circle 12:00 PM Bible Study 5:00 PM Chalice Choir 6:15 PM Sr. High Youth Grp 6:15 PM Confirmation 1 & 2 6:15 PM Bible Study 7:00 PM NA 7:30 PM Mid Wk Lenten Svc. Sexton on Duty: Ray

6 6:30 PM Chancel Choir

7 4:00 PM Girl Scout #81078 6:00 PM Make Palm Crosses

8 10:00 AM Philethia Choir 5:30 PM Worship w/HC (Easton HS Chamber Singers) Sexton on Duty: Dean

9 Palm Sunday

8:00 AM Worship 9:15 AM Donkey Walk ( Fellowship - Evangelism) 10:45 AM Worship 12:00 PM Palm Cross Delivery Sexton on Duty: Dean

10 MESSENGER DEADLINE 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220 7:00 PM Day Care Bd.

11 9:00 AM Ladies Aid 4:00 PM JAM Sessions 6:30 PM Sunday School 7:00 PM Naz. Women’s Club

12 Holy Wednesday LOVE-A-LOT CLOSED

5:00 PM Chalice Choir 6:15 PM Sr. High Youth Grp 6:15 PM Confirmation 1 & 2 7:00 PM NA 7:30 PM Holy Wednesday Svc. Sexton on Duty: Ray

13 Maundy Thursday LOVE-A-LOT CLOSED 7:30 PM Maundy Thurs. Svc. 8:30 PM Chancel Choir Sexton on Duty: Ray

14 Good Friday CHURCH OFFICE CLOSED DAY CARE CLOSED LOVE-A-LOT CLOSED 7:30 PM Good Friday Svc. Sexton on Duty: Ray

15 Easter Vigil

10:00 AM Festival Choir 5:30 PM Worship w/HC

Sexton on Duty: Tony

16 Easter 8:00 AM Worship w/HC 9:15 AM Sunday School Easter Egg Hunt 10:45 AM Festival Worship Service 12:00 PM Lily Delivery to Shut Ins

Sexton on Duty: Tony

17 CHURCH OFFICE CLOSED LOVE-A-LOT CLOSED 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220 6:00 PM Girl Scout Self Defense Class 7:00 PM Finance 8:00 PM Endowment

18 9:00 AM Ladies Aid 7:00 PM Helping Hands

19 12:00 PM Bible Study 6:30 PM Bible Study 7:00 PM NA 7:30 PM Naz. Comm. Band

20 7:00 PM Chancel Choir

21 COUNCIL REPORT DEADLINE 4:00 PM Girl Scout #81078

22 5:30 PM Worship w/HC Sexton on Duty: Ray

23 2nd Sunday of Easter 8:00 AM Worship 9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Youth Gathering 10:45 AM Worship

Sexton on Duty: Ray

24 6:00 PM Girl Scout #8220

25

9:00 AM Ladies Aid 4:00 PM JAM Sessions 6:30 PM Worship & Music

26 12:00 PM Bible Study 5:00 PM Chalice Choir 6:15 PM Sr. High Youth Grp 6:15 PM Confirmation 1 6:30 PM Bible Study 7:00 PM NA 7:30 PM Church Council 7:30 PM Naz. Comm. Band

27

6:30 PM Festival Choir 7:30 PM Chancel Choir

28

29 Volunteer Recognition Weekend Food Bank Weekend 5:30 PM Worship w/HC Sexton on Duty: Dean

30 Volunteer Recognition Weekend Food Bank Weekend 8:00 AM Worship (Fellowship – Stewardship) 9:15 AM Sunday School 10:45 AM Worship (Fellowship – Stewardship)

Sexton on Duty: Dean