BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

The St. Michael Messenger September 2015 www.stmfw.org Volume 63, Issue 9

From Pastor Lessing pastorlessing@stmfw.org

Our Strategic Plan is Here! This is the year of Paul at St. Michael and Romans is most certainly the apostle’s greatest literary and theological achievement. In 1545, Martin Luther recalled reading Romans 1:17 as a young monk—some thirty years earlier—and being amazed by God’s free gift of salvation. The reformer writes, “Here I felt that I was altogether born again and had entered paradise itself through open gates.” Luther’s friend and fellow-reformer, Philip Melanchthon, called Romans “a compendium of Christian doctrine.” The letter quickly became the foundation for Lutheran thought and life. It is fitting then, that St. Michael Lutheran Church take up Romans as we roll out our strategic plan this month. And what a plan it is! Approved by the Voters’ Assembly on April 19, it is biblical, understandable and downright compelling. This fall I will help you learn more about the plan so you can integrate it into your heart and mind. It takes consistent use of the same language over three years for any organization to be affected. So we must repeatedly articulate, saturate, and enculturate St. Michael with our plan. So. Here. We. Go! The lineup of sermons is as follows:

September 12/13 Our Mandate, “In view of God’s mercy…be transformed” Romans 12:1–2 September 19/20 Our Motives, “Christ-Centered, Discipleship-

Directed, Family-Focused and Mission-Minded” Romans 1:16–17 September 26/27 Our Mission, “Connecting People to Jesus” Romans 8:28–39 October 3/4 Our Map, “Bring, Belong, Become, Bless” Romans 12:9–16 October 10/11 Our Marks, “Doctrinal Beliefs, Practices and Virtues” Romans 6:1–11

Bible Studies will take up specific strategies from our plan:

September 13 Worship, “Taking Giant Steps with God” September 20 Discipleship, “Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing” September 27 Family Ministry and Spiritual Gifts, “Body Death and Body Life” October 4 Missions, “What’s Mine is Yours, and I’m Going to Share It!” October 11 Long-term Sustainability, “Built to Last!”

These five weeks of sermons and Bible Studies will lay the foundation for our life together for years to come. I invite you to make it your highest priority to attend, learn, share and help us launch the next chapter for St. Michael. What a wonderful time it will be! Pastor Lessing

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

Sunday School Director - Tara Panning tarapanning@yahoo.com SUNDAY SCHOOL FOR ALL AGES BEGINS ON September 13 at 9:30a Sunday school is starting back up! We are

having a Fall Kick-off Celebration after the

second service that will include food, games,

bouncy houses, a rock wall and information on

what happens at St. Michael!

December 12 – Let all parents, grandparents,

aunts, uncles, and friends know that this is

the date for our Children’s Sunday School

Christmas service! It will take place during

the 5:00p Saturday service.

The St. Michael Sunday School Staff

3-4 year olds – Dan & Brenda Mauricio Room 9 Kindergarten – Robin Atkins & Liz Collins Room 12 1st Grade - Corinne Lyttle & Jeremy Allyn Room 15 2nd Grade – Ali Raney & Nancy Sackschewsky Room 11 3rd Grade – Linda Chapman & Jessica McLain Room 22 4th Grade – Adrienne Clendenen & Laura Moll Room 20 5th Grade – Terry & Rachel Hammond Room 18 6th Grade - Tommy Moll, Julie Kistler, Jon Hartman Room 16 7th Grade – TR Ackmann & Christine Harrison Library 8th Grade – Vicar Kelly Krieg & Fieldworker, Marshal Frisque Luther Hall High School – Dave Panning, Ron Harker Youth Room Music 3-4-Kindergarten – Jen Ackmann Room 12 Music First–Fifth – Mindy Schoeph Sanctuary

PLEASE NOTE… On September 13th, ages three through fifth grade will meet in the sanctuary and then be dismissed to their rooms.

Coffee and donuts will be in the Family Life Center.

Adult Bible Study and Sunday School offerings will support the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Our money will help distribute Spanish Bibles and Small Catechisms!

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

DID YOU KNOW...

- The St. Michael Camp Scholarship Fund helped nine children attend Camp Lutherhaven this past summer.

- 50% of our Sunday School coffee and donut fund goes into the camp scholarship fund, this past year generous members gave $734.25!

Good Things are Happening at St. Michael! Jim Sims is our new Acts 1:8 Mission Director. We are getting a new electronic sign. All the money is in: $20,000! Hannah Thompson is our new Church Council Recording Secretary. The St. Michael softball team capped off a fun-filled season with a 35-12 victory over Holy Cross in the Fort

Wayne Lutheran Softball League B-Division tournament championship game. Under Tara Panning’s leadership, our Sunday School is rip­roaring­ready to launch on September 13! Barb Allyn is joining our Family Ministry Team. Generous members continue to give, on average, $1,500 per week toward paying down our building loan. We have an awesome new church logo! St. Michael is poised to enjoy a most glorious fall ministry season! Emmanuel–St. Michael Lutheran School student K-8 enrollment for the ’15­’16 School Year: 354! Our fall women’s retreat on October 16-18 is full! Eighty women will hear the voice of their Good Shepherd! Ashley Yoder will return in 2016 to lead our VBS. Our theme? Ocean Commotion!

“Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow!”

Adult membership class Pastor Lessing will be teaching a new adult membership class, beginning on Wednesday, September 23, from 6:30p – 8:00p. Whether you have questions about Christ or want to deepen your faith in Him, this seven-

week class, ending on November 4, will explore what the Bible says about our God, and how His love gives direction and meaning to our life. The class is designed for those who are interested in learning or reviewing the foundations of the Christian faith. Attendance at the class may lead to membership in our church, but there are no obligations. Free childcare is provided.

Is there someone at work, in your neighborhood, or at your dinner table who is not a member of a Christian church and this is weighing heavily on your heart? Invite a friend to our adult membership class! Feel free to talk to Pastor Lessing if you would like ideas on how to craft your invitation. For more information, email Pastor Lessing.

Introductory video at www.lhm.org/GodConnects Sign up at www.stmfw.org/gcsignup

ALL NEW

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

From the Music Director—Stephanie Maxson stephanie@stmfw.org

Hymn of the Month Sing new songs, but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold!

We will be learning one new hymn each month. New is a relative term since most of these hymns have been around for a while but may not be as familiar. This month we are learning Listen, God is Calling (LSB #833).

Youtube and Worship for Shut-ins. The Adult Choir and last year’s ESM 2/3 grade choir will be on Worship for Shut-ins on September 13. If you missed us, you can find all of the music we recorded on the St. Michael youtube channel.

Choir Rehearsals Starts September 2! All choirs will start the week of September 2. We have some cool new music to learn!!! Check out the schedule below to see times.

Bell Practice begins September 14! If you missed the August 31 try out for bells, contact our bell director, Celine, to set up a time to meet and get plugged into a group.

Band Jam Sessions Meet in the Music Room…Bring your guitar! Once a month, we are inviting guitarists, vocalists, and drummers to come for a jam session, which will go over some of the music we use in our Saturday services. Upcoming dates: September 13 @ 12:30p; September 22 @ 7:00p; October 27@ 7:00p; and November 10 @ 7:00p.

St. Michael Rehearsal Schedule

Vocal Starts September 2

Stephanie Maxson

Stephanie@stmfw.org

Men’s Choir Wednesdays 6:30p-7:00p in the sanctuary

Adult Choir (SATB) Wednesdays 7:00p-8:00p in the sanctuary

Handbell Choirs Starts the week of September 14

Celine Newman

Cnewman12@gmail.com

Grace Notes (3rd – 8th grade) Mondays 3:45p-4:45p in the sanctuary

Harmony Ringers (high school – adult) Mondays 6:15p-7:15p in the sanctuary

Resound Mondays 7:30p-8:30p in the sanctuary

Instrumental Denice Beights Orchestra & Brass

denicebeights@gmail.com

Stephanie Maxson Flute & Strings

Stephanie@stmfw.org

Flute Choir in music room Thursdays 1:30p-2:30p Sundays 9:00a-9:30a

Orchestra in Luther Hall Thursdays 6:00p-7:00p

String Ensemble in music room 1st & 3rd Thursdays 6:30p-7:00p

Bands Tommy Moll Youth Band and Life Song

tommy@stmfw.org

Stephanie Maxson Jubilant Fields & King’s Strings

Jubilant Fields Thursdays 7:00p-8:30p in the music room

King’s Strings & Life Song Tuesdays 7:00p-8:30p in the music room and sanctuary

Youth Band Wednesdays 7:00p-8:30p in the music room

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

From the Vicar—Kelly Krieg kelly@stmfw.org

Well, the summer is over and school is back in full swing, which can only mean your kids are already counting down the days until Christmas Break! However, there is also another important class that is gearing up this month. Confirmation classes will be starting shortly at St. Michael. As your Vicar, one of my main duties is to direct our 6th, 7th and 8th grade confirmation program. I can’t wait to get started! Today in the LCMS, some 99 percent of the congregations offer the rite of confirmation. The aim remains the same as the early church’s: to answer Christ’s call to go to the nations and make disciples by baptizing and teaching. In our society, outreach among children, youth and their parents presents the best opportunities to connect with the non-connected. This year should be a fun and exciting year for all those involved. Please take note that there are several important dates to bring to your attention concerning our confirmation plans.

Confirmation Kickoff for all 6th, 7th and 8th Grade Students and Their Parents: September 10 at 6:00p. This meeting is extremely important for both parents and students to attend because we will be going over the year in more detail, dates and times, etc., as well as the expectations for everyone involved.

Camp Lutherhaven Confirmation Retreat: October 9-11. This year it is being held in the fall to give the eighth-grade kids a chance at developing closer ties with one another at the beginning of our studies together.

Confirmation Sunday: Pentecost Sunday, May 15, 2016, so mark your calendars and save the date! I am excited about the opportunity to get to explore our Lutheran heritage and its biblical foundations with this year’s classes. In Christ’s Service and Yours, Vicar Krieg

Emmanuel-St. Michael

Lutheran School

www.esmeagles.com

ESM CLASSROOM WISHING TREE Teachers often provide many things that are not covered by the school budget. This year, St. Michael and Emmanuel

are joining together to fulfill teachers’ classroom wishes. The wishing tree will be available to both congregations starting September 19-20. Watch the bulletin for more details.

Concordia Lutheran High School

www.clhscadets.com

First-annual Grandparents Day on Sept. 14 CLHS is hosting the first ever Grandparents Day on September 14. This event will be held each year, reserved for the grandparents of Sophomores and Seniors. Grandparents are invited to join their grandchildren for chapel, programs from the different departments, and then are invited to take their sophomore and senior grandchildren off campus for lunch that day. The day begins at 8:15a and continues until 1:00p. Additional information and registration can be found at www.clhscadets.com/grandparent.

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

From the President—T.R. Ackmann tackmann@aol.com I did some math the other day and determined it has been 27 years since the last time I went “back to school.” At the end of July, Jen and I celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary. A couple weeks ago, my high school graduating class gathered for its 30th reunion. My children are beginning their 8th grade and 6th grade year. Last week, I turned 48 years old. In April, my wife turned, well, never mind…

Much of our lives are spent measuring time in one way or another. In my professional life, I get to talk about time quite a bit. I often tell people that of all the things you can control, the amount of time you have is not one of them. How do you utilize the time you have? That is something you can control, and we have the choice every day to make the most of it.

On September 13, our service times return to their “post –summer” schedule and Sunday school and Bible class begin again. St. Michael will also be holding our Fall Kickoff after late church. This is a tremendous opportunity to spend time with fellow members and make new friends. Additionally, this is a chance to learn more about St. Michael’s various ministry programs and try to determine how you might spend some of your time in the coming year. We have a lot of exciting things going on and would love for you to be a part of it!

May God bless you and may God bless St. Michael. T.R. Ackmann

Official Church Acts in August

Transferring Out Carri, Nicholas, Connor, Braden, Gavin and Alec Bartkowiak to Emmanuel, Fort Wayne

Peaceful Release Matthew Thompson to Two Cities Church, Lafayette, IN

Weddings Jayna Yagel and Jacob Schroeder; Matt Thompson and Erin Smith; Maxwell Thompson and Gretchen Roehm

Baptismal Birthdays will be celebrated on September 19/20 for children, birth through 5th grade. Bonnie, Mamie, and Augustine Allyn; Oren Atkins; Sawyer Bade; Sydney Berger; Brenden Butler; Carter Cable; Lucas Clendenen; Katherine Farber; Benjamin Fowls; Aaron Kistler; Jacob Levitt; Gage and Nora Shively; Harper Twomey; and Gavin Weible.

THE LUTHERAN WOMEN’S MISSIONARY LEAGUE is a part of our Women’s Ministry. We participate in the Indiana District LWML Zone rallies, workshops and conventions. Some of our ladies serve on Zone and District Committees. The LWML is an organization with a heart for missions! The Mite Box donations, offered with prayer, help fund missions around the world. The International Convention adopted a budget of $2 million for 2015-2017 in convention this past June. Twenty-five percent of our mites are given to International. The Indiana District receives 75% of our mite offerings towards its goal of $92,455 for 2014-2016 biennium. Some of these missions include: Lutheran Military Veterans and Families Ministries, $12,000; Orphan Grain Train, $12,000; Concordia Seminary, Ft. Wayne, Food and Clothing Co-op, $12,000; Calvary India Mission, $10,000; and Worship for Shut-ins, $4,455.65. St. Michael will receive door offerings for these missions after worship services on October 3-4. Such mite offerings are received only once a year. Bring your collection of mites that weekend or you may write a check to St. Michael with the Memo indicating LWML offering. Children that participate in the Children’s message will be given a mite box in September to return the following Sunday with their offerings! Thank you for your generous hearts!

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

BELONG Connecting to God’s Family

“We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

Listen: to hear with thoughtful attention. Did you ever talk to someone but felt as if that person just wasn't listening?

Stephen Ministers are trained to listen well. They will hear what you have to share and respond lovingly and non­judgmentally, rather than telling you what you should or shouldn't have done. If you need someone who will really listen to you as you work through a problem in your life, consider Stephen Ministry. Call Margaret Jones at 672­3594.

SIGN UP FOR DELIVERY OF THE PARISH NOTES Go to www.stmfw.org/ParishNotes

Automated Giving Options St. Michael offers two methods to give your contributions electronically to the church’s account:

1) Online donation via scanning the QR Code with your phone.

2) Visit our website and click on “Online Giving”

Just Older Youth—aka J.O.Y. clewis11@msn.com The calendar events are open to everyone who is 55 and older. Check the J.O.Y. bulletin board for more information.

J.O.Y. Bible Study in Luther Hall Led by Pastor Lessing Studying the Gospel of Mark 2nd & 4th Tuesdays from 10:00a – 11:30a

September 10 Senior Saints Concert October 8 Trip to St. Francis Planetarium November 12 Trip to Shipshewana for musical and

dinner

SENIOR SAINTS CONCERT—EVERYONE INVITED!! Invite your friendS and neighbors to hear The Senior Saints, an energetic group representing 31 area churches

as they present their Seasons of Life in our sanctuary on Thursday, September 10, at 1:00p. They will use song and story to journey through childhood, teen years, dating years, and will share the songs of faith that have carried them through the joys and sorrows of life. Dessert and coffee will be served after concert. There is no charge but a free will offering will be taken. FINANCIAL REPORT for the year, as of July 31, 2015 General Fund Offerings: $732,749 General Fund Expenses: $735,175 Under/Over Budget: ($2,426) DEBT REDUCTION Extra offerings toward Debt Reduction: $65,797

ELECTRONIC OUTDOOR SIGN FUND GOAL REACHED The small group, Team Tandem, wishes to thank you for your response to the Electronic Outdoor Sign Fund! Thrivent supported the Action Team with seed money for the project. Through the License Plate Frame project an awareness and passion was developed for making contributions. We reached our goal of $20,000. Application will be made to the Lutheran Foundation for matching funds. Final decision will be reported as soon as we have the news! LICENSE PLATE FRAMES ARE STILL AVAILABLE! Check with church office. The Board of Evangelism is grateful to Team Tandem and the congregation for the generous response!

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

From the Director of Youth Ministry—Tommy Moll tommy@stmfw.org

3:15 YOUTH MINISTRIES…

Bible Study Themes for September Both middle school and high school youth will look at the book of Romans. We will be looking at how God truly transforms us and how we are called to connect people to Jesus. Check out the texts below to follow along with what your kids are studying: September 12-13: Be Transformed and September 26-27: Connecting People to Jesus.

6th-12th Grade Service Project at Lutheran Life Villages On September 19, we will serve at Lutheran Life Villages by doing clean up and gardening. All 6th-12th graders are invited to serve. Youth should wear closed-toed shoes and arrive at 8:15a at St. Michael. We will be back to church by 12:00p.

HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH NIGHTS In September we’ll meet for high school youth nights on Sundays from 6:00p-8:30p on September 13 and September 27. Each youth night, we will share a meal together, have Bible study, and do a closing game or activity. In September, we will be looking at how we have been transformed and how we are called to connect people to Jesus. All high school youth are welcome, and you can always bring a friend.

PARTNERING WITH EMMANUEL On September 27, we will partner up with Emmanuel Lutheran Church to have a special youth night at St. Michael for high school youth. We will still meet at 6:00p for a meal, Bible study, and a large group game.

JR. HIGH YOUTH NIGHTS START UP Jr. High youth nights will start back up on Saturday, September 12! We will be meeting on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month from 6:00p-8:30p. This means that our two youth nights in September will be September 12 and 26. We will share a meal together, have Bible study, and do a closing game or activity each night. All Jr. High youth are welcome, and you can always bring a friend.

JUNIOR YOUTH RALLY AT LUTHERHAVEN Pray for our 7th grade youth as we head to Camp Lutherhaven for a Jr. High Rally on September 19-20. If you are registered for the event, make sure that you check your pack-list and have everything ready to go and are at church no later than 9:00a on Saturday, September 19. This is going to be an awesome opportunity to grow in our faith!

From Faith@Home—Robin Kaiser rrkaiser@hotmail.com "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2

Looking at our family calendar, I rarely find time that isn't taken up with something: work, school, sports, band, and on and on! Do your calendars look the same? The world tells us that we need to have all of these things scheduled, but when are we supposed to find time to spend with God? God wants us to go to him ANYTIME. He is never too busy and does not require an appointment! But with our busy schedules, we may actually have to schedule

time with God. Schedule family devotions first thing in the morning, before bed or whatever time works for your family. If you need devotion ideas, see the St. Michael website and click on Family Ministry. There are several links that I recommend. Have you scheduled your family devotion yet?

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

BECOME Connecting to God’s Word

Day/Time Current Study Leader(s) and Contact Information

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Bible Study Every Tues @ 9:00a Vicki Steckbeck; vsteckbeck@aol.com

Bible Study Every other Wed @ 8:00p

Chronological Study Tera Klutz ; teraklutz@gmail.com

Heart to Heart I 2nd Thu 6:30p–8:00p

Women of the Bible Carol Goldstein/Sharon Smith smith.family4@myfrontiermail.com

Heart to Heart II 2nd Thu 6:30p Twelve Ordinary Men Margaret Jones/Carol Olry; hmejones@hotmail.com

Heart to Heart 2nd Tues 6:30p–8:00p Trusting Names of God Christine Harrison charrison75@comcast.net

Women’s Book Club 3rd Thu 10:00a Carol Weide; weide6@comcast.net

Bible Study 2nd/4th Fri 9:00a

The Life I’ve Always Wanted

Stephanie Maxson; tsmaxson@frontier.com

Bible Study Every other Fri 1:00p Book of Matthew Charlotte Kiessling; kiessling5@comcast.net

Young Moms 1st/3rd Mon 9:15a-10:45a

The Best Yes Janet Olson/Jen Ackmann; jmo11434@comcast.net

PURLS 1st/3rd Tues 1:00p-3:00p Pat Armstrong; epapna@gmail.com

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Bible Study 2nd/4th Tues 6:00p 2nd Corinthians Ken Stahl; klstahl1@frontier.com

Prayer Breakfast 1st Sat 8:00a Augsburg Confession Dennis Brink; dennis.brink@att.net

Bible Study Every Wed 10:30a Stepping Up Larry Wickert; LW4492@aol.com

Bible Study 2nd/3rd Mon 7:30p Bible on Trial Ryan Meyer; foriugobigred@yahoo.com

Bible Study 1st/3rd Thu 7:30p Behold Your God Dave Panning/John Hein; panning@sacs.k12.in.us

Bible Study Every Sun 3:30p Fathered by God Paul Leininger; indylein@comcast.net

FAMILY GROUP

Northside Time varies Susan Jones; susan.s.jones@comcast.net

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Luther’s Knights 2nd/4th Sun 5:00p Tim Crum; crumt5@comcast.net

Bible Study 2nd Sat 6:30-8:30p Shayne and MaryAnn Ulmer; shayneulmer@gmail.com

Not Quite Seniors (NQS)

Monthly (day varies) Various DVD topics Ted Braun; 260-625-3477

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Couple’s Group 1st/3rd Thu 7:00p-8:30p Julie Freigang; juliefriegang@gmail.com

Mocha Lounge Every Sun 9:30a-10:30a Twelve Ordinary Men Paul and Mary Leininger; indylein@comcast.net

Rupp’s Troup 1st/3rd Sun 7:00p Harry Jones; Hmejones71@aol.com

Downtown Group 1st/3rd Tues 12:00p-1:00p

Romans Tim Maxson; Timothy.maxson@buckconsultants.com

Amazing Greys 3rd Sun 7:00p Psalms Jerry Egly; jerrye@embarqmail.com

ALPHA 4th Mon 7:00p-9:00p Dan and Karen Clendenen; dkclendenen@msn.com

Bible Study Every Mon 7:00p-8:30p Tough Questions Terry Butler; tgbslb67@yahoo.com

Team Tandem 2nd Thu 7:00p Lutheranism 101 Jerry and Mary Nichols; jerryandmary1@frontier.com

Bruckner Life Group 1st/3rd Thu 7:00p Revelation Pastor Bruckner/Ed Treace; redtrucked@comcast.net

Bible Study 3rd Fri 7:00p Ephesians – Max Lucado Dan and Sharon Smith; smith.family4@myfrontiermail.com

Campfire Crew TBD Adam and Jami Hahn; jjandak@cinergymetro.net

4G - Mission-Minded 1st Sat 6:00p; 3rd Sun 1:00p

“Why Give?” John and Karen Hall; jhallrndng3rd@gmail.com

Young Adult (20’s/30’s)

Every Thu 7:00p-8:30p Vicar Kelly Krieg; kelly@stmfw.org

18-22 Year Old

Life Team 1st Wed 7:00p Life Affirming Mission Dennis Brink; dennis.brink@att.net

Inquire of God 2nd/4th Sun 1:00p-2:30p Prayerfully Seeking God’s Will

Rick Humbarger; rhumbarger@hotmail.com

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

YOUNG MOMS SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDY Join us this fall! We will begin our study on September 14 and meet every 2nd/4th Monday through December from 9:15a-10:45a in Luther Hall. CHILDCARE WILL BE PROVIDED!!! Join us as we discuss “The Best Yes” answer to our everyday decisions. If you are interested or have questions, email Janet Olson at jmo11434@comcast.net.

YOUNG ADULT SMALL GROUP Starting Thursday, September 24, all young adults (20's and 30's) are invited to meet in Luther Hall from 7:00p-8:30p. You will have the opportunity to get acquainted and reacquainted with other young adults, and find out the what, where, and when details of this small group. This is a wonderful opportunity to gather with other believers, to be encouraged in your faith, and help sharpen them in theirs.

WOMEN’S FALL BIBLE STUDY The Women's Ministry fall Bible study, One in a Million: Journey to Your Promised Land, by Priscilla Shirer, encourages participants to fully engage in the abundant life God has waiting for those who will allow him to take the lead in daily living. One in a Million is an opportunity for you to experience your deliverance from strongholds, to conquer your wilderness living, and to claim your God-given inheritance. The study will be on Tuesday mornings starting on September 29 through November 17 and on Thursday evenings starting on October 1 through November 19. To register, call the church office at 421-2033, email tina@stmfw.org, or look for the signup in the Narthex. The deadline for sign up is Sunday, September 19.

DISCIPLESHIP vs. DISCIPLEMAKING? There is a difference?

The difference is focus. As we grow as disciples, we are growing in our relationship to our Lord and Savior. As our focus turns to disciplemaking, we are using our God given gifts, skills, and abilities to share our faith with and to mentor others. As with the twelve, Jesus did not call men to just join a club. He called them and calls us today to make disciples (Matthew 28:19)! The St. Michael Men’s Ministry will be offering a program that will help men discover effective ways to disciple other men through Christ-like relationships, mentoring, and growth in knowledge and understanding of God’s Word. This also supports a St. Michael core value of being a Discipleship – directed church. Do you have what it takes to be a Disciple maker? Are you looking for a challenge? A purpose beyond the mundane? Do you think you have some knowledge or wisdom to share with another man? Then this could be the training program for you. Space is limited. Several men have indicated an interest. We are hoping to schedule this training on a couple Saturday mornings in mid to late October. Please contact Harry Jones at hmejones71@aol.com or by phone at (260) 672-3594, if you are interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity.

Board of Evangelism—Mary Nichols marylouisenichols@gmail.com

Our “Invest and Invite Evangelism Strategy” is all about bringing unbelievers to worship so they connect with Jesus. Who do

you know that doesn’t know Jesus? How can you invest in their lives with the goal of inviting them to worship where they will

hear a clear Gospel presentation? Pray first. Then begin. There’s no telling what God will do!

We will be looking for additional greeters to add to our roster for this fall. You may offer your services once a month and register at the Fall Kickoff on September 13, or for inquiries, call Mary at 450-0025.

Stepping Up Quote of the Month: Every man needs margin in his calendar for the

unexpected at work and home.

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

BLESS Connecting to Our World with Christ’s Love

LUTHERAN WOMEN’S MISSIONARY LEAGUE NEWS

North Zone Rally When: October 10 at 8:30a – 11:30a

Where: Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church 6318 W. California Road, Fort Wayne

Cost: $6 includes breakfast Registration Deadline is October 5

Contact Mary Nichols to make reservations

Theme: Parenting a Child with Disabilities

Speaker: Gloria Doty, a member of St. Michael Lutheran, is a Christian writer, author, speaker and blogger. Her recently published Book, “Not Different Enough,” tells the everyday experiences of life with her daughter Kalisha, and their 30-year journey with autism, Asperger’s and intellectual disabilities. She has published a book of devotions with her sister, Jeanette Dall, titled “A Bouquet of Devotions.” There will be a monetary ingathering for Bethesda, where Gloria’s daughter is a client and receives services.

Justice Bread: Wheat, birdseed and cranberry available September 19/20.

LUTHERAN LIFE VILLAGES

FALL FLING CARD PARTY Everyone is welcome to attend this great opportunity for fun and fellowship at Lutheran Life Villages at 6723 S. Anthony Blvd. on Thursday, September 10 at 7:00p. Tickets are $5 and include refreshments. Contact Mary Nichols at 450-0925. Choose your favorite game to play and support a worthwhile organization at the same time!

Lutherans for Life Plan Trip to Creation Museum The Annual Lutherans for Life (LFL) conference will be held at the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, on October 30-31. The St. Michael Life Team is working with the LFL Fort Wayne Chapter to organize motorcoach transportation to the conference. The $88.50 per person cost is based on 24 minimum passengers. This price includes driver gratuities, continental breakfast enroute, and transportation between the Creation Museum and the conference hotel. Registration is first come, first serve. Deadline for the motorcoach registration is September 15. If our minimum passenger number is not fulfilled, the fee will be refunded. For more information and to register, contact Dennis Brink at fw.lfl@att.net or 260-238-4046. Please note: You are responsible for registering for the conference and reserving a room. See www.lutheransforlife.org/conference/.

You are invited to attend our Life Team meetings on the first Wednesday of each

month at 7pm. Contact Dennis Brink at 238-4046 for more information. Upcoming activities:

September 19 – Strides of Hope – Run/Walk for A Hope Center

September 24, October 22, 8:00a to 8:00p, Sanctuary - “Unified Prayer for Life” - invite Fort Wayne community to visit St. Michael for prayer vigils to defend life

You are also invited to consider volunteering for or supporting A Hope Center. For more information, Pastor Bob Bruckner at 616-0496.

WORSHIP FOR SHUT-INS Check out

www.worshipforshutins.org for more info.

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

Serving in September 2015 at St. Michael Lutheran Church

Title Dates Saturday Sunday

8:00 10:00 / 10:45

Acolytes 5/6

Matthew Scholz Jacob Worsham

Gunnar Fry Tori Hoffman Elizabeth LaLonde

12/13 Ross Augenstein Alec Grinsfelder

Connor Shane

Emma Connelly Jackson Connelly

19/20 Parker Morey Gretchen Witmer

Riley Fulton Elizabeth Lichtsinn

Cade Patterson Olivia Render

26/27 Allison DiBenideto Lila Wendell

Gabriella McLain Madelyn Miller

Andrew Deeter Mallory Peters

Altar Guild Stacie Saunders, Jane Grose, Carla Jennings Children’s Church

5/6 Jen Ackmann Luanne Haupt

12/13 Elizabeth Ruch Liz Collins

19/20 Jen Ackmann Alissa Stalter

26/27 Heather Nutter Adrienne Clendenen

Elders Mike Roemer Craig Patterson

GAP 19/20 Lisa Lessing Ed Treace

Pastor Jerry and Mary Nichols Jim and Diana Sims

Greeters 5/6

Gary and Becky Yahnke, Kathleen Brown, Harold and Maria Graham

Wayne and Jean Panning, Marge Jesse Camille Blake

Karen Hall, Joel and Gretchen Weerts

12/13 Murray and Cindy Mendenhall, Al and Cynthia Claus, Gene Scheumann

TR and Jen Ackmann David and Kathryn Trinklein

Eric and Alissa Stalter, Ron and Carol Korte Carol Olry

19/20 Dave and Christine Harrison, Cyndy Bagan Gloria and Kalisha Doty

Ted and Donna Braun, Jon and Cristie Gerken, Nancy Kuker

Don and Lily Schenkel, Gary and Debbie Gotsch, Todd Stouder

26/27 John and Sue Baker, Penny Pequignot, Richard Pierce

Tim and Marilyn Crum, Ron and Kendra Nieman

David and Diane Waldrop, Nina Bruns, Carol Olry

Lay Readers

5/6 Linda Lewis Richard Pierce Karen Hall

12/13 Adam Hahn Rich Krause Randy Fillmore

19/20 Bruce Schroeder Mary Nichols Janice Pekrul

26/27 Diane Bricker Rich Krause Linda Chapman

September 5-6 OPEN September 12-13 OPEN September 19-20 Lucy Johnson and Troy & Camille Bartel, in Loving Memory of Roger

Johnson September 26-27 Keith & Cheri Miller, Carri Bartkowiak and Family, in Loving Memory

of their Parents, Bill and Annette Bunnell If you would like to honor a loved one or celebrate a life event by purchasing flowers to adorn our altar, please contact Cassie Swartz at 672-2981 or nchsw@frontier.com.

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

UPCOMING SERMON SERIES

AND BIBLE CLASSES

The Year of Paul (2014-2015)

1 Corinthians 13: The Most Excellent Way

(October 17–November 1)

2 Corinthians 8–9: Money Matters

(November 7–November 22)

The Year of Wisdom

(2015-2016)

Focus on the Family: Families in Jeopardy

(November 28–December 31)

James: A Manual for Maturity

(January 2–February 7)

Job: Blessed be the Name of the LORD

(February 10–March 27)

Overcoming Your Fears: Stop Running Scared

(April 2–May 22)

“Lord, Teach us to Pray:” The Lord’s Prayer

(June 4–July 18)

Ecclesiastes: Chasing the Wind

(July 23–September 4)

Nehemiah: Hand Me Another Brick

(September 10–October 16)

Proverbs: Balancing Your Personal Life

(October 22–November 20)

September 2015 2131 Getz Road 260-432-2033 www.stmfw.org Fort Wayne, IN 46804

BRING BELONG BECOME BLESS

St. Michael Ministry Leader Contact Information

Acts 1:8 Mission Team Jim Sims jldksims@yahoo.com 260-417-9874

Altar Guild Judy Pieper pieperjudy@yahoo.com 260-755-2554

Banners Sharon Smith smith.family4@myfrontiermail.com 260-432-4131

Dartball Dennis Hilgemann dennyhilgemann@frontier.com 260-422-8173

ESM School Alicia Levitt alevitt@esmeagles.com 260-459-1616

Family Ministry Robin Kaiser rrkaiser@hotmail.com 260-402-3891

Funeral Dinners Ivy Gray ivy@stmfw.org 260-432-2033

Greeters Mary Nichols marylouisenichols@gmail.com 260-450-0025

Handbells Celine Newman cnewman12@gmail.com 260-636-7101

Hospital/Shut-In Visitations Pastor Jerry Nichols jerryandmary1@frontier.com 260-450-5123

Interior Decorating Committee Susie Egly susiee@embarqmail.com 260-396-2078

J.O.Y. (Just Older Youth) Linda Lewis clewis11@msn.com 260-432-6351

Jr. and Sr. Youth Ministry Tommy Moll tommy@stmfw.org 785-304-3751

Lay Readers Louann Presti loupresti@aol.com 260-456-1971

Lutherans for Life Team Dennis Brink dennis.brink@att.net 260-238-4046

Men’s Basketball and Softball Matt Hendrickson mhendrickson8@gmail.com 260-403-0119

Men’s Ministry Harry Jones shmejones71@aol.com 260-672-3594

Men’s Prayer Breakfast Dennis Brink dennis.brink@att.net 260-238-4046

Music Stephanie Maxson stephanie@stmfw.org 260-432-2033

Nursery Coordinator Melanie North mnorth73@gmail.com 260-484-1856

Office Volunteers Tina Hoover tina@stmfw.org 260-432-2033

Orchestra Dee Dee Beights denicebeights@gmail.com 260-312-3966

Prayer Ministry Al Claus aclaus4@yahoo.com 260-414-0568

Puppets Nancy Sackschewsky nancy5645@embarqmail.com 260-625-4005

Service in the Community Camille Blake ldcdblake@frontier.com 260-459-3353

Small Group Bible Studies Christine Harrison charrison75@comcast.net 260-625-4040

St. Michael Preschool Michelle Wolfer michelle@stmfw.org 260-710-4566

Stephen Ministry Debbie Gotsch debbiegotsch@gmail.com 260-348-7280

Summer Outdoor Maintenance Phil Gray phil.gray@frontier.com 260-437-4131

Sunday Coffee/Donuts Ivy Gray ivy@stmfw.org 260-432-0033

Sunday School Tara Panning tarapanning@yahoo.com 260-755-3286

Technology (Audio and Video) Shawn McLain shawn@pcguyonline.net 260-436-8031

Ushers Dave Crow boilermakers_crow@msn.com 260-459-9320

Vacation Bible School Ashley Yoder ashleypete2001@gmail.com 260-436-1670

Women’s Ministry Linda Chapman ltc1947@gmail.com 260-747-0432