SEPTEMBER 2012SEPTEMBER 2012

TIDINGSTIDINGS

“Bringing the Healing Love of Christ

To Our Community for the Glory of God”

2

ST.JOHN UCC FREEPORT

MONTHLY TIDINGS

VOLUME 95 SEPTEMBER 2012

CHURCH STAFF

MINISTERS………………….…THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH SENIOR PASTOR……………………...……DONNLEY DUTCHER DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRY / DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGIES………………………………..…KEVIN ECKERT MINISTRY OF CHURCH LIFE & MEMBERSHIP…....PAM WESSEL STAFF SECRETARY…………………………..KIRSTEN ECKERT CHOIR DIRECTOR…………………...……….....GINA BERTRAM ORGANISTS………….CAROLE BERTRAM & MARSHA ROBERTS CUSTODIAN ………………………………….ANGELA NEWKIRK

OFFICE HOURS MONDAY– FRIDAY...…8:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.…&.1:00 TO 4:00 P.M.

Church (815) 235-2824 E-Mail: stjohn@comcast.net

www.stjohnuccfreeport.org

The deadline for submitting articles in the monthly Tidings is September 18th by noon.

AS THE SPIRIT MOVES ME…..

Some years ago I created a liturgy about change, which I began with these words:

“Life constantly changes. One season passes into another. Daytime lengthens and shortens. Water wears away rock formations that have stood for eons of time. Rivers change their course and wildlife migrates.

Babies are born. Children grow up to become youth, young adults, and adults. People choose careers and change them, then retire to other work and avocations. People commit themselves to one another in marriage and their lives in Christ through the church. Loved ones and friends become ill and well again, even as they become ill and die.

Our church changes constantly, as well.”

These are only a few of the many changes we face in life, as you know. I believe it was my dad’s mother who said, “Life is a series of adjustments.” Oh, how well you and I know the truth of that!

We’ve been experiencing a lot of changes at St. John. For some people, there have been too many of them and they have come too quickly. I’m reminded of the man who started his own business after years in the corporate world. In reflecting on starting his own business, he said, “It was like trying to drink water from a fire hose.” There was too much coming at him too quickly.

So I do know that for some members and friends of St. John the changes we have been experiencing have been more “bad news” than “good news” for them. But, there is “good news” to be recognized and celebrated:

1) We have 8 people in our New Member’s Inquiry Class;

2) We’re going to have a new, exciting worship/Sunday school experience for our children and youth. Kevin and others have

3

ST.JOHN UCC FREEPORT

MONTHLY TIDINGS

VOLUME 95 SEPTEMBER 2012

CHURCH STAFF

MINISTERS………………….…THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH SENIOR PASTOR……………………...……DONNLEY DUTCHER DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRY / DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGIES………………………………..…KEVIN ECKERT MINISTRY OF CHURCH LIFE & MEMBERSHIP…....PAM WESSEL STAFF SECRETARY…………………………..KIRSTEN ECKERT CHOIR DIRECTOR…………………...……….....GINA BERTRAM ORGANISTS………….CAROLE BERTRAM & MARSHA ROBERTS CUSTODIAN ………………………………….ANGELA NEWKIRK

OFFICE HOURS MONDAY– FRIDAY...…8:30 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M.…&.1:00 TO 4:00 P.M.

Church (815) 235-2824 E-Mail: stjohn@comcast.net

www.stjohnuccfreeport.org

The deadline for submitting articles in the monthly Tidings is September 18th by noon.

AS THE SPIRIT MOVES ME…..

Some years ago I created a liturgy about change, which I began with these words:

“Life constantly changes. One season passes into another. Daytime lengthens and shortens. Water wears away rock formations that have stood for eons of time. Rivers change their course and wildlife migrates.

Babies are born. Children grow up to become youth, young adults, and adults. People choose careers and change them, then retire to other work and avocations. People commit themselves to one another in marriage and their lives in Christ through the church. Loved ones and friends become ill and well again, even as they become ill and die.

Our church changes constantly, as well.”

These are only a few of the many changes we face in life, as you know. I believe it was my dad’s mother who said, “Life is a series of adjustments.” Oh, how well you and I know the truth of that!

We’ve been experiencing a lot of changes at St. John. For some people, there have been too many of them and they have come too quickly. I’m reminded of the man who started his own business after years in the corporate world. In reflecting on starting his own business, he said, “It was like trying to drink water from a fire hose.” There was too much coming at him too quickly.

So I do know that for some members and friends of St. John the changes we have been experiencing have been more “bad news” than “good news” for them. But, there is “good news” to be recognized and celebrated:

1) We have 8 people in our New Member’s Inquiry Class;

2) We’re going to have a new, exciting worship/Sunday school experience for our children and youth. Kevin and others have

4

converted an old classroom into their own worship space, with refinished and reupholstered pews, a renovated floor, freshly painted walls, new curtains and more. It’s going be a great experience for our children and youth!

3) The CATS Play group has been providing a new mission service to mothers with toddlers. Up to 17 mothers and toddlers (many not members of the church) have gathered for an hour of new friendships, learning and play.

4) The congregation has responded with great generosity in our support of the monthly FACC food drive.

5) The Mission Ministry purchased 100+ Freeport bus tickets for seniors and non-seniors who need help with transportation. The tickets are being distributed by FACC.

6) The Mission Ministry has responded to 6+ special requests by FACC to give some financial assistance to individuals or families in need. Even this week, we received a request to help purchase school uniforms for a particularly needy family. We responded with assistance.

7) We are experiencing increased fellowship and relationship-building through people using the narthex for fellowship, before and after worship. Some of those people never went down to Fellowship Hall. Just step back and look at the crowd and listen to joyful noise!

8) Our attendance for June, July and August have remained the same as last year; and that’s “good news,” because remaining the same is a positive change in the trend over the last few years (and that’s even with the deaths of 7-10 people who were regularly in worship a year ago).

9) Our new sign is in and we are receiving positive responses – and inquiries – from people of the church and beyond. We even put a plea on the sign for the community to help restock the empty shelves at FACC and FACC has told us that people have responded to the message.

10) We have had an increase of people as visitors in Sunday morning worship, this summer, over previous summers.

These are some of the positive things happening in these days at St. John. We share them with you to pass on some “good news” and to keep you informed.

Catch the Spirit that is alive and working among us! It is the Spirit of God alive and active in our midst. The Spirit who says to us, scripturally, “Behold! I am making all things new!” .. It is what God is doing in these days here at St. John UCC. Praise God!

RALLY DAY FESTIVITIES The Halls are coming back!

Laura and Rick Hall will be holding a concert for us Saturday, September 8th at 7pm. They have been here twice before and it

is always such a wonderful evening of music and stories and laughter. Please come and bring your friends and neighbors.

It’s FREE

Sunday September 9th is our kick off for the fall. Sunday school will be our new format of

Kids Worship. Kids ages infant to 5 will still go to the nursery and anyone over 5 is welcome to come to Kids Worship following the Children’s

moment.

After worship there will be the annual hog roast dinner with games including a cookie walk and a

pie auction. Please sign up on the bulletin board to make

cookies and/or pies. Oh and don’t forget about the sno-cones and go-kart rides!

5

converted an old classroom into their own worship space, with refinished and reupholstered pews, a renovated floor, freshly painted walls, new curtains and more. It’s going be a great experience for our children and youth!

3) The CATS Play group has been providing a new mission service to mothers with toddlers. Up to 17 mothers and toddlers (many not members of the church) have gathered for an hour of new friendships, learning and play.

4) The congregation has responded with great generosity in our support of the monthly FACC food drive.

5) The Mission Ministry purchased 100+ Freeport bus tickets for seniors and non-seniors who need help with transportation. The tickets are being distributed by FACC.

6) The Mission Ministry has responded to 6+ special requests by FACC to give some financial assistance to individuals or families in need. Even this week, we received a request to help purchase school uniforms for a particularly needy family. We responded with assistance.

7) We are experiencing increased fellowship and relationship-building through people using the narthex for fellowship, before and after worship. Some of those people never went down to Fellowship Hall. Just step back and look at the crowd and listen to joyful noise!

8) Our attendance for June, July and August have remained the same as last year; and that’s “good news,” because remaining the same is a positive change in the trend over the last few years (and that’s even with the deaths of 7-10 people who were regularly in worship a year ago).

9) Our new sign is in and we are receiving positive responses – and inquiries – from people of the church and beyond. We even put a plea on the sign for the community to help restock the empty shelves at FACC and FACC has told us that people have responded to the message.

10) We have had an increase of people as visitors in Sunday morning worship, this summer, over previous summers.

These are some of the positive things happening in these days at St. John. We share them with you to pass on some “good news” and to keep you informed.

Catch the Spirit that is alive and working among us! It is the Spirit of God alive and active in our midst. The Spirit who says to us, scripturally, “Behold! I am making all things new!” .. It is what God is doing in these days here at St. John UCC. Praise God!

RALLY DAY FESTIVITIES The Halls are coming back!

Laura and Rick Hall will be holding a concert for us Saturday, September 8th at 7pm. They have been here twice before and it

is always such a wonderful evening of music and stories and laughter. Please come and bring your friends and neighbors.

It’s FREE

Sunday September 9th is our kick off for the fall. Sunday school will be our new format of

Kids Worship. Kids ages infant to 5 will still go to the nursery and anyone over 5 is welcome to come to Kids Worship following the Children’s

moment.

After worship there will be the annual hog roast dinner with games including a cookie walk and a

pie auction. Please sign up on the bulletin board to make

cookies and/or pies. Oh and don’t forget about the sno-cones and go-kart rides!

6

A LETTER FROM ST. JOHN UCC IN

CHICAGO

Each month I get a short letter as an update from St. John UCC in Chicago. They are a church that we have donated Potatoes to in the past and give money regularly to for their food pantry. They are a missional church whose calendar is full of AA

meetings and meals and homeless suppers and specific worship services for AA members, food pantry hours and rummage sales. In August this is the letter I received in the office and felt compelled to share it with all of you….

Dear members and friends of St. John Church in Chicago,

I had the wonderful opportunity to visit with my daughter and her family in Columbus, Ohio last week. When my daughter asked 7 year old Michael what he wanted to do with Grandma when she comes he said, “It doesn’t matter what we do, I just want to BE with Grandma!” It just doesn’t get any better than that!!! What a wonderful world this would be if we just wanted to BE with each other or just wanted to BE with ourselves. We would surely feel the presence of God in our lives.

Our mission work continues strong even though we are experiencing a summer of extravagant heat. We will be getting ready for school to start soon so our rummage sale reflects people coming to look for school supplies as well as cloths for the children to begin this new school year.

At our dinner for the homeless on Sunday night we learned that one couple who sleeps under on of the via ducts so they do not get wet when it rains had all of their clothes stolen. They were able to borrow a blanket to sleep on from one of the other homeless people who live in that area, but fortunately we had a bag of clothes that fit them both so they now have a change or two of clothing. His sister is taking care of their new baby. I am amazed at the mount of homeless couples that come to our dinner. These are married people who started out living in an apartment together and are now homeless. When we get caught up in our little worries it is easy to forget how important it is to just have more than one set of clothes to wear. When the father went

for a huge second helping of food he explained that he had not eaten in two days and that this meal may need to last him through tomorrow also. As I was sitting with them at a table in the church near the window with a cool breeze coming through, I realized how we were sharing thoughts and ideas but that we really live in two different worlds. Let us continue to care for eachother ~ Rev. Dr. Charlotte Nold

LAYCARE MINISTRY

“For by the grace given me I say to everyone of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has

given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage, if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.” Romans 12: 3-8

I bring that Scripture to you because we need your God given gifts. Let me remind you that our Laycare Ministry has been a vital part of serving others in our church. Since 1997, we have been giving, loving, sharing and serving the needs of our members at St. John. We have served joyfully and we intend to continue doing just that.

Our group is getting older, so that means we have been doing some “slowing down”. This summer we have found ourselves short of meeting the needs of others and that means we need to increase the number of members on our ministry. Because we meet at 1:00 p.m., we know that automatically eliminates some who would serve on our ministry. BUT, to serve does not mean you must attend a meeting. We have one member who is

7

A LETTER FROM ST. JOHN UCC IN

CHICAGO

Each month I get a short letter as an update from St. John UCC in Chicago. They are a church that we have donated Potatoes to in the past and give money regularly to for their food pantry. They are a missional church whose calendar is full of AA

meetings and meals and homeless suppers and specific worship services for AA members, food pantry hours and rummage sales. In August this is the letter I received in the office and felt compelled to share it with all of you….

Dear members and friends of St. John Church in Chicago,

I had the wonderful opportunity to visit with my daughter and her family in Columbus, Ohio last week. When my daughter asked 7 year old Michael what he wanted to do with Grandma when she comes he said, “It doesn’t matter what we do, I just want to BE with Grandma!” It just doesn’t get any better than that!!! What a wonderful world this would be if we just wanted to BE with each other or just wanted to BE with ourselves. We would surely feel the presence of God in our lives.

Our mission work continues strong even though we are experiencing a summer of extravagant heat. We will be getting ready for school to start soon so our rummage sale reflects people coming to look for school supplies as well as cloths for the children to begin this new school year.

At our dinner for the homeless on Sunday night we learned that one couple who sleeps under on of the via ducts so they do not get wet when it rains had all of their clothes stolen. They were able to borrow a blanket to sleep on from one of the other homeless people who live in that area, but fortunately we had a bag of clothes that fit them both so they now have a change or two of clothing. His sister is taking care of their new baby. I am amazed at the mount of homeless couples that come to our dinner. These are married people who started out living in an apartment together and are now homeless. When we get caught up in our little worries it is easy to forget how important it is to just have more than one set of clothes to wear. When the father went

for a huge second helping of food he explained that he had not eaten in two days and that this meal may need to last him through tomorrow also. As I was sitting with them at a table in the church near the window with a cool breeze coming through, I realized how we were sharing thoughts and ideas but that we really live in two different worlds. Let us continue to care for eachother ~ Rev. Dr. Charlotte Nold

LAYCARE MINISTRY

“For by the grace given me I say to everyone of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has

given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage, if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.” Romans 12: 3-8

I bring that Scripture to you because we need your God given gifts. Let me remind you that our Laycare Ministry has been a vital part of serving others in our church. Since 1997, we have been giving, loving, sharing and serving the needs of our members at St. John. We have served joyfully and we intend to continue doing just that.

Our group is getting older, so that means we have been doing some “slowing down”. This summer we have found ourselves short of meeting the needs of others and that means we need to increase the number of members on our ministry. Because we meet at 1:00 p.m., we know that automatically eliminates some who would serve on our ministry. BUT, to serve does not mean you must attend a meeting. We have one member who is

8

employed full time, but does a Friday hospital call each month. We have some members of our church who are making calls, but are not on our ministry.

Here is what I would like to see happen. If you have time and want to serve our shut-ins, please call me. I will see that you have members to call on who would be pleased to have your regular visits. We have ’home communions’ covered. We have Wednesday and Friday hospital calls covered. Kirsten sees that all shut ins receive a copy of the Sunday Bulletin each week.

We need people to join us who would be willing to make home visits and visits to our members who are confined to facilities such as Liberty Village, Stephenson Nursing Center and Provena Nursing Center. Please consider joining us.

A similarity from “The Barefoot Church” Sometimes I would like to ask God why He allows our elderly to be lonely and shut-in when He could do something about it. But, I’m afraid He would ask me the same question.”

Micah 6:8 “But He’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what GOD is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don’t take yourself too seriously--take God seriously“. The Message)

Peace and Love, Marilyn Ruthe, Coordinator

Marilyn Ruthe, Coordinator

Laycare Ministry

NOTE:

Communion will be on September 9th - Rally Day this month (not September 2nd)

MISSONS MINISTRY

RED CAN SUNDAY

We will be receiving monetary donations on September 2nd for the FACC emergency fund. $284 was collected in August.

FOOD FOR FACC

In September our food item to collect is 250 cans of Soup. In case you are looking for sales to stock up October’s food item will be cans of fruit.

STEWARDSHIP

Applying Bible Principles

“You shall eat your fill and bless the Lord your God for the good land that he has given you. . . .But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who

gives you power to get wealth. . . ” (Deut. 8:10, 18).

The Bible repeatedly says that we are to “bless the Lord,” but what does that mean? Whatever else it might mean, it entails having a thankful heart for all that God has done for us. It’s easy, you know, to go to an extreme and to emphasize only God’s spiritual blessings to the exclusion of His temporal blessings. It’s also easy to emphasize only His material blessings and to forget His provisions for us spiritually. In reality, we are to emphasize both the material and spiritual blessings we receive from God, remembering that all that we have comes from His bountiful hand.

As we realize God’s provisions for us, day after day, week after week, month after month, and year after year, we literally “bless the Lord” by a lifestyle that is marked by thanksgiving for all that God has done for us. And that spirit of gratitude for past, present and future blessings causes us to want to give to the Lord from

9

employed full time, but does a Friday hospital call each month. We have some members of our church who are making calls, but are not on our ministry.

Here is what I would like to see happen. If you have time and want to serve our shut-ins, please call me. I will see that you have members to call on who would be pleased to have your regular visits. We have ’home communions’ covered. We have Wednesday and Friday hospital calls covered. Kirsten sees that all shut ins receive a copy of the Sunday Bulletin each week.

We need people to join us who would be willing to make home visits and visits to our members who are confined to facilities such as Liberty Village, Stephenson Nursing Center and Provena Nursing Center. Please consider joining us.

A similarity from “The Barefoot Church” Sometimes I would like to ask God why He allows our elderly to be lonely and shut-in when He could do something about it. But, I’m afraid He would ask me the same question.”

Micah 6:8 “But He’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what GOD is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don’t take yourself too seriously--take God seriously“. The Message)

Peace and Love, Marilyn Ruthe, Coordinator

Marilyn Ruthe, Coordinator

Laycare Ministry

NOTE:

Communion will be on September 9th - Rally Day this month (not September 2nd)

MISSONS MINISTRY

RED CAN SUNDAY

We will be receiving monetary donations on September 2nd for the FACC emergency fund. $284 was collected in August.

FOOD FOR FACC

In September our food item to collect is 250 cans of Soup. In case you are looking for sales to stock up October’s food item will be cans of fruit.

STEWARDSHIP

Applying Bible Principles

“You shall eat your fill and bless the Lord your God for the good land that he has given you. . . .But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who

gives you power to get wealth. . . ” (Deut. 8:10, 18).

The Bible repeatedly says that we are to “bless the Lord,” but what does that mean? Whatever else it might mean, it entails having a thankful heart for all that God has done for us. It’s easy, you know, to go to an extreme and to emphasize only God’s spiritual blessings to the exclusion of His temporal blessings. It’s also easy to emphasize only His material blessings and to forget His provisions for us spiritually. In reality, we are to emphasize both the material and spiritual blessings we receive from God, remembering that all that we have comes from His bountiful hand.

As we realize God’s provisions for us, day after day, week after week, month after month, and year after year, we literally “bless the Lord” by a lifestyle that is marked by thanksgiving for all that God has done for us. And that spirit of gratitude for past, present and future blessings causes us to want to give to the Lord from

10

the bounty He has provided for us. As one unknown author wrote, “Thanksgiving, to be truly Thanksgiving, is first thanks, then giving.”

Think about it: As we receive God’s blessings, we offer praise and thanksgiving to Him. And as we realize afresh that all that we have is a result of God’s goodness, our response to His faithfulness is to give back to God a portion of that which was already His. We do so, not because we have to or out of any sense of obligation or guilt. We give to the Lord because we want to do so, in response to His great love for us and in response to His goodness.

Dwight L. Moody was once reading Psalm 103. When he came to the verse, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits,” he stopped short in his inimitable way and exclaimed, “You can’t remember them all, of course, but don’t forget them all. Remember some of them!” And as you “remember some of them,” remember the sequence: First thanks, then giving.

B.O.L.D TEAM

As the BOLD Team continues to meet with Paul Nixon via Skype and email please feel free to touch

base with any of them as to the updates on these

conversations with our Church Coach.

Deb Hartman (Liaison to Council) ,Shelly Griswold, Marilyn Ruthe, Lisa Ebbers, Patrick Busker, Perry Cowan, Hugh Knapp, Donnley

Dutcher, and Kevin Eckert

PASTOR ON VACATION

Pastor Dutcher is on vacation August 27th-September 3. He will be in the office Tuesday Sept. 4th. Please contact the Rev. Carol Ahrens at (815) 616-8901 as she will provide pastoral services in his absence.

NEW MEMBERS

There will be no new members class September 2nd. Pastor Donnley is on Vacation.

FELLOWSHIP MINISTRY

HARVEST FEST

Come and celebrate the harvest! Keith and Cherryl Hinrichs are hosting an afternoon of fun, fellowship and food Saturday October 20th. Pencil it in your calendar and look for more information to come.

O N GOI N G WAY S TO PAR T I C I PAT E I N

T H E L I F E O F T H E C H U R C H

C H AN C E L C HO I R & B E L L

C H OI R

Chancel Choir’s first official rehearsal is September 6th at 7pm to prepare for Rally Day with Rick and Laura Hall.

Bell Choir will begin rehearsals September 13th at 6pm.

If you are interested in singing or playing see Gina Bertram. Practices are Thursday evenings. The Chancel Choir usually sings three times each month and the Bells ring once.

11

the bounty He has provided for us. As one unknown author wrote, “Thanksgiving, to be truly Thanksgiving, is first thanks, then giving.”

Think about it: As we receive God’s blessings, we offer praise and thanksgiving to Him. And as we realize afresh that all that we have is a result of God’s goodness, our response to His faithfulness is to give back to God a portion of that which was already His. We do so, not because we have to or out of any sense of obligation or guilt. We give to the Lord because we want to do so, in response to His great love for us and in response to His goodness.

Dwight L. Moody was once reading Psalm 103. When he came to the verse, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits,” he stopped short in his inimitable way and exclaimed, “You can’t remember them all, of course, but don’t forget them all. Remember some of them!” And as you “remember some of them,” remember the sequence: First thanks, then giving.

B.O.L.D TEAM

As the BOLD Team continues to meet with Paul Nixon via Skype and email please feel free to touch

base with any of them as to the updates on these

conversations with our Church Coach.

Deb Hartman (Liaison to Council) ,Shelly Griswold, Marilyn Ruthe, Lisa Ebbers, Patrick Busker, Perry Cowan, Hugh Knapp, Donnley

Dutcher, and Kevin Eckert

PASTOR ON VACATION

Pastor Dutcher is on vacation August 27th-September 3. He will be in the office Tuesday Sept. 4th. Please contact the Rev. Carol Ahrens at (815) 616-8901 as she will provide pastoral services in his absence.

NEW MEMBERS

There will be no new members class September 2nd. Pastor Donnley is on Vacation.

FELLOWSHIP MINISTRY

HARVEST FEST

Come and celebrate the harvest! Keith and Cherryl Hinrichs are hosting an afternoon of fun, fellowship and food Saturday October 20th. Pencil it in your calendar and look for more information to come.

O N GOI N G WAY S TO PAR T I C I PAT E I N

T H E L I F E O F T H E C H U R C H

C H AN C E L C HO I R & B E L L

C H OI R

Chancel Choir’s first official rehearsal is September 6th at 7pm to prepare for Rally Day with Rick and Laura Hall.

Bell Choir will begin rehearsals September 13th at 6pm.

If you are interested in singing or playing see Gina Bertram. Practices are Thursday evenings. The Chancel Choir usually sings three times each month and the Bells ring once.

12

C . A. T. s

Caregivers And Toddlers Please join us for our play group geared for toddlers and the adults that care for them. We get together in St. John’s nursery Tuesday mornings 10-11am, Bring your friends, all are welcome.

COMPUTER CLASS

Kevin has been holding a computer class on Tuesday mornings at 10am. Stop in and ask him questions or learn something new about your computer, this is very basic information for all learning levels.

HELIX

MIDDLE SCHOOL HELIX (grades 5-8th)

Tuesdays and Thursdays 3-5 pm

5-6 will meet on Tuesdays and Grades 7-8

will meet on Thursdays

SUNDAY HELIX (thru 12th grade)

Starting September 9th HELIX will meet in the

youth lounge after worship

BIBLE STUDY

We meet at 9 a.m. Wednesdays, in the Chapel

Hearth. All are welcome - Please join us.

PING PONG

We meet every Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. (the second week of the month on Tuesday) in the Game Room (North Wing). We would love to have more men &

women join in on the fun!

CARD CLUB

Usually we play Euchre the first Monday of the month in Chapel Hearth. Because of Labor Day we will meet September 10th.

RESOURCE GROUP

Join us on Thursdays at 9 a.m. for coffee, treats, friendship, & to do volunteer work! We assemble the Tidings on September 27th.

MEN’S GROUP

We’re having a great time! Come join us! We’re not “holier than thou,” nor is all the talk just “God-

talk.” It’s a wonderful blend of maleness, conversation, laughter, the spiritual and the unspiritual. Our next gathering is Saturday, October 6th at 8 a.m. We meet until about 9:30 a.m. Come check us out!

CHRIST FIRST

This is an ongoing Faith Based Weight loss program that meets Monday evenings from 5-6 or Wednesday evenings from 6-7pm. Please contact Kevin Eckert 815-218-0286 for more information.

13

C . A. T. s

Caregivers And Toddlers Please join us for our play group geared for toddlers and the adults that care for them. We get together in St. John’s nursery Tuesday mornings 10-11am, Bring your friends, all are welcome.

COMPUTER CLASS

Kevin has been holding a computer class on Tuesday mornings at 10am. Stop in and ask him questions or learn something new about your computer, this is very basic information for all learning levels.

HELIX

MIDDLE SCHOOL HELIX (grades 5-8th)

Tuesdays and Thursdays 3-5 pm

5-6 will meet on Tuesdays and Grades 7-8

will meet on Thursdays

SUNDAY HELIX (thru 12th grade)

Starting September 9th HELIX will meet in the

youth lounge after worship

BIBLE STUDY

We meet at 9 a.m. Wednesdays, in the Chapel

Hearth. All are welcome - Please join us.

PING PONG

We meet every Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. (the second week of the month on Tuesday) in the Game Room (North Wing). We would love to have more men &

women join in on the fun!

CARD CLUB

Usually we play Euchre the first Monday of the month in Chapel Hearth. Because of Labor Day we will meet September 10th.

RESOURCE GROUP

Join us on Thursdays at 9 a.m. for coffee, treats, friendship, & to do volunteer work! We assemble the Tidings on September 27th.

MEN’S GROUP

We’re having a great time! Come join us! We’re not “holier than thou,” nor is all the talk just “God-

talk.” It’s a wonderful blend of maleness, conversation, laughter, the spiritual and the unspiritual. Our next gathering is Saturday, October 6th at 8 a.m. We meet until about 9:30 a.m. Come check us out!

CHRIST FIRST

This is an ongoing Faith Based Weight loss program that meets Monday evenings from 5-6 or Wednesday evenings from 6-7pm. Please contact Kevin Eckert 815-218-0286 for more information.

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WORKOUT NIGHTS

Zumba with Jacqui Davenport on Wed 5-6pm and Zumba Toning on Friday evenings from 5-6pm . First Class is $5 Drop in rate after that is $7 or buy a 10 class punch card for $50.

QUILTERS

A brief meeting on Friday, September 14th of the St. John Stitch, Sew & Quilt Group will start at 1:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. We will be distributing our church raffle quilt tickets for members to sell, future plans for our group, etc. Hope everyone has a lot of enthusiasm and many ideas to work on during the winter months. ~ Mavis Clark

SERVING

Being a servant of the church is a great way to get to know fellow members. If you’re interested in serving please call the church office or fill out a pew card.

COFFEE HOUR

We are trying something new for Coffee Hour. The coffee and treats will be in the

Narthex area with room to mingle and socialize. If you would like to find a place to sit and talk there is plenty of room in the Chapel Hearth and Fellowship hall is always open. Please, if your name is on the list (dates are assigned alphabetically by the directory) for this month, bring in whatever you like, some ideas are... cookies, bars, mini muffins, bagels etc. or please consider bringing fruit to share. Coffee Hour will become self serve so please plan accordingly with the treats you bring to share.

SEPTEMBER - Tau Alpha

9/2 - Jean Mahon, Denny & Pam Manus, Dixie Marklund, Betty Mathews, Tom & Dianne Mathews, Duane & Barb McDonough, William & Norma McLenahan, Carla Meyer

9/9 - Keith & Kathy Moffatt, Betty Mogle, Carolyn Moyer, Tim & Laura Muench, Jeff & Debbie Nesemeyer, Dorothy Ness, Tim & Angela Newkirk, Bradley & Jody Nieman, Paula & Lawrence Nieman

9/16 - Ray & Jeri Nieman, Larae Olson, Ruth Olson, Edward & Connie Orde, Lee & Nancy Otte, Dwight & Diane Peterson, Royce & Janet Piefer, Donna Polhill,

9/23 - Ulan & Cindy Price, Dale & Kelly Priewe, Betty Pruitt, Rodney Pruitt, Steve & Jeanette Rafferty, John & Paula Rawleigh, John & Debra Rice, Shaun & Erin Rice

9/30 - Floyd & Marsha Roberts, Doris Roberts, Wes & Joyce Robinson, Ruth Rockey, Dave Rockey, Carl & Ellen Roderick, Karen Roemer

OCTOBER - Resource

10/7 - Edith Rosenstiel, Amanda Rubin, Cherie Rucker, Marilyn Ruthe, Donna Ruthe, Floyd & Vivian Schlickman, Amy Schneiderman, Gerald & Patricia Schneiderman

GREETERS

September 2 –Donna & Zael Klapp

September 9- Janet & Royce Piefer

September 16- Dorothy Ness, Carolyn Moyer

September 23- Mary & Arnold Eder

September 30- Vivian & Floyd Schlickman

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WORKOUT NIGHTS

Zumba with Jacqui Davenport on Wed 5-6pm and Zumba Toning on Friday evenings from 5-6pm . First Class is $5 Drop in rate after that is $7 or buy a 10 class punch card for $50.

QUILTERS

A brief meeting on Friday, September 14th of the St. John Stitch, Sew & Quilt Group will start at 1:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. We will be distributing our church raffle quilt tickets for members to sell, future plans for our group, etc. Hope everyone has a lot of enthusiasm and many ideas to work on during the winter months. ~ Mavis Clark

SERVING

Being a servant of the church is a great way to get to know fellow members. If you’re interested in serving please call the church office or fill out a pew card.

COFFEE HOUR

We are trying something new for Coffee Hour. The coffee and treats will be in the

Narthex area with room to mingle and socialize. If you would like to find a place to sit and talk there is plenty of room in the Chapel Hearth and Fellowship hall is always open. Please, if your name is on the list (dates are assigned alphabetically by the directory) for this month, bring in whatever you like, some ideas are... cookies, bars, mini muffins, bagels etc. or please consider bringing fruit to share. Coffee Hour will become self serve so please plan accordingly with the treats you bring to share.

SEPTEMBER - Tau Alpha

9/2 - Jean Mahon, Denny & Pam Manus, Dixie Marklund, Betty Mathews, Tom & Dianne Mathews, Duane & Barb McDonough, William & Norma McLenahan, Carla Meyer

9/9 - Keith & Kathy Moffatt, Betty Mogle, Carolyn Moyer, Tim & Laura Muench, Jeff & Debbie Nesemeyer, Dorothy Ness, Tim & Angela Newkirk, Bradley & Jody Nieman, Paula & Lawrence Nieman

9/16 - Ray & Jeri Nieman, Larae Olson, Ruth Olson, Edward & Connie Orde, Lee & Nancy Otte, Dwight & Diane Peterson, Royce & Janet Piefer, Donna Polhill,

9/23 - Ulan & Cindy Price, Dale & Kelly Priewe, Betty Pruitt, Rodney Pruitt, Steve & Jeanette Rafferty, John & Paula Rawleigh, John & Debra Rice, Shaun & Erin Rice

9/30 - Floyd & Marsha Roberts, Doris Roberts, Wes & Joyce Robinson, Ruth Rockey, Dave Rockey, Carl & Ellen Roderick, Karen Roemer

OCTOBER - Resource

10/7 - Edith Rosenstiel, Amanda Rubin, Cherie Rucker, Marilyn Ruthe, Donna Ruthe, Floyd & Vivian Schlickman, Amy Schneiderman, Gerald & Patricia Schneiderman

GREETERS

September 2 –Donna & Zael Klapp

September 9- Janet & Royce Piefer

September 16- Dorothy Ness, Carolyn Moyer

September 23- Mary & Arnold Eder

September 30- Vivian & Floyd Schlickman

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WELCOMERS

September 2 – Jackie Stewart & Joyce Bloyer

September 9 – Sharon Simler & Anita Bicksler

September 16 – Betty Pruitt & Betty Carpenter

September 23 – John & Betty Heiden

September 30 – Donna Ruthe & Marilyn Ruthe

NURSERY

September 2- Bonnie & Russ Gennusa

September 9 – Tim & Angela Newkirk

September 16 – Jeanne Cross, Cherryl Hinrichs

September 23 – Tom & Melinda Ferguson

September 30 – Marla Kreeger & Olivia Shaffer

USHERS

9/02 Tim, Colin & Kristi Ebbers, Dennis Manus, Jim Drew

9/09 John & Paula Rawleigh, Phil & Barb Copus, Mike Smith, James & Tom Priewe

9/16 Ray & Jeri Nieman, Tom & Melinda Ferguson, Wes & Joyce Robinson, Dana Brill

9/23 Lee & Nancy Otte, Keith & Kathy Moffatt, Jeanne Koch, Jane Krug

9/30 Doris Last, Sharon Simler, Ben Lee, Diane Heilman

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DRIVERS

We have several drivers available, if you are in need of a ride please contact the off ice before noon on Friday, 815 -235-2824 and talk to Pam.

WORSHIP ATTENDANCE

7/29 - 148 8/12 - 127

8/5 - 159 8/19 - 149

SHUT-INS: The following is a list of people that

either can’t get out and may love a visit or a card from those thinking of them.

Dorothy Miller and Laura Uthlaut at Parkview

Nettie Hendren, Jim Fry and Nada Scheisser at Liberty Village

Bob Heilman at Lena Living Center

June Nagel, Joyce Kaiser and Holly Genant at Stephenson Nursing Center

Katherene Benson at Provena

In their homes are, Karen Salter, Vivian Pals, Phyllis Cohen, Esther Dickman, and Maida Gimple, Shirley Durrstein, Ruth Hille

PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR PRAYERS

PRAYER CHAIN: Jackie Watson, Frank O’Donnell, Tom

Ristow, Jon, Sandy Dutcher

HOSPITALIZED: -none- Praise God!

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************************************************************************* On behalf of the Fellowship Ministry, we would like to thank everyone who helped at this year's Ice Cream Social. We had a fantastic turnout. Thanks to all who generously donated a pie or cake, sold tickets, served ice cream, food and drinks or helped clean up. Thanks also to the Resource Group for cutting the pies and cakes and to Kirsten for printing tickets, flyers, and sign-up sheets. Thanks to the BBQ making crew of Pam, Vicki and Betty and the Fellowship Committee for helping make the Pasta Salad. Kim Evans, Ice Cream Social Chair ************************************************************************* Thank you for your donation of $250 for CONTACT. We have put you on the Calendar to fund Sunday, August 5th. Your support of our programs and services is truly appreciated. CONTACT Staff, Board of Directors & Volunteers ************************************************************************* Thank you for all of your continued generosity. The Pretzel Bus tickets you donated will enable our clients to feel empowered by getting where they need to go. Your monetary donations in April and June of $625 are greatly appreciated. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and support of the Freeport Area Church Cooperative. ************************************************************************* Thank you for the support of Our Church’s Wider Mission as part of the United Church of Christ in the amount of $15,460. ~Geoffrey Black, General Minister and President of UCC *************************************************************************Thank you for your support of the Freeport Area Pregnancy Center in the amount of $443.86 in baby bottle donations. ~Sherrie Bicksler, Exec. Director

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St. John UCC Council Minutes

8-13-12

Members present: Joyce Robinson, Vice President, Mary Arnold, Lisa Ebbers, Deb Hartman, Keith Hinrichs, Jane Krug, Ben Lee, Shan MacAdam, Dennis Manus, Ulan Price, Marilyn Ruthe, Donnley Dutcher, ex-officio.

Opening Prayer: Pastor Donnley

July Minutes: Previously approved via email.

Treasurer’s Report: Reviewed and clarifications made. Motion to approve made by Marilyn, 2

nd by Dennis, discussion, motion

carried.

North Wing Doors: Property Management reported that Keith repaired the west doors (in the north wing) and that new doors are on order for the far north end.

Narthex Update: Kevin compiled a list of technology needs for improvements that came to about $1500 plus electric outlets and data cabling installation. Betty Carpenter has already approved giving $1000 toward

this project from Randall’s memorial. Some funds are expected to be left over from the Chapel Hearth Fund after all costs have been covered in the completion of that project. Keith made the motion to accept the memorial money from Betty Carpenter and use the money left over from the Chapel Hearth Fund for the remainder of the costs projected by Kevin. 2

nd by Marilyn.

Discussion. Motion carried.

Keith also made a motion to make available $4034 from the Building Reserve Fund to cover the cost of restoring the doors to the sanctuary as part of the Narthex improvements. Mary 2

nd.

PRESIDENT Bill Condie V ICE PRESIDENT Joyce Robinson SECRETARY Deb Hartman TRE ASURER Ulan Price CHRISTI AN ED . Lisa Ebbers CHURCHGROWTH Marilyn Ruthe FELLOWSHIP Ben Lee Jane Krug M ISSIONS Dennis Manus PROPERTY MAN AGEMENT Keith Hinrichs STAFF REL ATIONS Joyce Robinson STEW ARDSHIP Ulan Price WORSHIP Mary Arnold BOLD Deb Hartman

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Discussion. Motion carried.

Carillon: The carillon is currently out of service, most likely due to a recent power failure. The module that failed will need to be replaced and the cost will be $250 for a new module and $195 for service. Ulan made the motion to pay for repairs out of the Building Reserve Fund. Dennis 2

nd. Discussion. Motion carried.

Insurance Board Update: At the next meeting the Council will be reviewing quotes on the church’s property and liability insurance based on varying deductibles. It’s expected that the rates will be higher than before.

Donnley will be sending a link to Council to review a piece from the United Church Board “Safe Church Policy”.

Pastor’s Report: Pastor Donnley will be on vacation the week of August 27 through Labor Day. He will be going on a spiritual retreat the end of September, the cost of which will come from the continuing education budget.

2013 Budget—Salary Recommendations: The Helix youth helpers are currently being paid from the Janshen Fund. Council discussed how to proceed with this in the future. At some point we may need to “wean” the salary expense from the Janshen Fund to a budget item.

The Council discussed giving bonuses/gifts to show the employees appreciation for their hard work and dedication. This will be discussed further at the October or November Council meeting.

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Jane made the motion to give a 3% raise to all salaries (except Pastor Donnley and Mary Arnold per their request). This covers Kevin Eckert, Kirsten Eckert, Pam Wessel, Angela Newkirk, Carole Bertram, Marsha Roberts and Gina Bertram. Keith 2

nd.

Discussion followed. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned with Mizpah Benediction.

Next meeting September 10

Respectfully submitted,

Deb Hartman

Council Secretary

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FINANCIAL STATEMENT

Beginning Balance January 1, 2012 $32,692.43 8/01 General Fund Beginning Balance $12,102.66 8/06 GF Income $5,143.20 8/13 GF Income $5,354.00 8/20 GF Income $6,748.13 Less 8/27 GF Payroll & Compensation $11,643.64 8/27 GF Other Checks $5,553.98 8/27 GF Current Bills Outstanding $2,796.95 -———— 8/27 Ending Balance $9,354.42 ________________________________________________________________________________________ Beginning Balance January 1, 2012 $6,962.17 8/01 Building Fund Beginning Balance $3,735.90 8/06 BD Income $360.00 8/13 BD Income $453.00 8/20 BD Income $262.00 Less 8/27 BD Checks $982.47 _________ 8/27 Ending Balance $3,828.43

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September Scripture Readings

01 2 Samuel 7:1-29 17 Proverbs 2:1-22

02 2 Samuel 11:1-27 18 Proverbs 3:1-35

03 2 Samuel 12:1-25 19 Proverbs 4:1-27

04 1 Kings 1:1-14 20 Proverbs 8:1-36

05 1 Kings 1:15-53 21 Proverbs 10:1-32

06 1 Kings 2:1-12 22 Proverbs 12:1-28

07 1 Kings 2:13-46 23 Proverbs 13:1-25

08 1 Kings 3:1-15 24 Proverbs 14:1-35

09 1 Kings 3:16-28 25 Proverbs 15:1-33

10 1 Kings 4:20-34 26 Proverbs 16:1-33

11 1 Kings 8:1-21 27 Proverbs 22:1-29

12 Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 28 Proverbs 23:1-35

13 1 Corinthians 1:1-17 29 Proverbs 24:1-34

14 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 30 Proverbs 25:1-28

15 1 Corinthians 2:1-16

16 Proverbs 1:1-33

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