Ebenezer United Church of Christ
October 2020 Eagle Newsletter
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Please review the document(s) before attending in-person worship.
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After the Elections
I know, we still have a month to go before the election, but please walk with me into the future for a few minutes. Thanks.
You will receive this newsletter before the November 3 elections. Tensions will be heightened as we get closer to elections either because of the anticipation of what is to come or because of the result of the balloting. The divisions which are erupting as we approach the election has prompted me to write this column urging people to turn down the volume and step back from the edge. This month I want to say a few words about life after the election.
As a country, we have been treated to a rich discussion of religious dialogue these past few months. It has been nearly impossible to sit on the sidelines and listen to the conversations. The nature of the topics, the words, the implications have drawn people from the sidelines calling them into the discussions. Sometimes these words have added to the richness, sometimes the words have added to the content, some words have added fear, and still others have aroused anger and hatred. What will we do after the election when one group of people will be elated and another group disappointed?
I am drawn to Jesus’ conversation with a lawyer in Luke 10:25-28. “Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. ‘Teacher,’ he said, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him, ‘What is written in the law? What do you read there?’ He answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.’ And he said to him, ‘You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.’” I see the past several months of rich discussion and shouting accusations as a time when we have been preparing to test each other. Now, with the campaigns nearing their ends we are about to discover if we can live the teaching of Jesus to focus on God and love one another.
We have heard from some people that a vote for this candidate is a “vote for the true teachings of the Bible.” We have heard others just as vehemently contend that to vote for the other candidate is to “bring your salvation into question.” Some Christians will rejoice on November 4 and some will despair. What I believe is that the gospel calls all Christians to join together in living out the Greatest Commandment. How shall we do this?
First, let’s take a step back from the heated arguments and accusations and journey to church on November 8. This will be an opportunity to remember that we are a forgiven people. When Jesus, the disciples, and others celebrated the Passover meal they did so knowing that many of the disciples didn’t understand most of Jesus’ teachings. The disciples argued about the important issues of the day and some tried to convince Jesus that they were better than the others and they, not the others, should sit at Jesus’ right hand in heaven. Jesus welcomed them to the table. He continued to speak to them. He blessed them. He knew that in just a few hours they would twist his words, curse his name, and fight not for him but for themselves. In the midst of all this Jesus forgave them and fed them.
Next, our voices will be tired and hoarse from all the words we have spoken so let’s sit in silence and seek God’s will for us for the future. I believe that the Greatest Commandment is still the best word for us to carry in our hearts as we move into the coming years. There will be new issues which will threaten to split families, churches and denominations. We risk raising these issues into new tests of “true Christian belief” if we allow our hearts and minds and souls to drift away from Jesus’ teachings. Find the time and place where you feel closest to God and journey through prayer, seeking not the best way to avenge the hurtful words from your neighbor, instead seek God’s will so you can best love your neighbor.
“What must I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him, ‘What is written in the law? What do you read there?’ He answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.’ And he said to him, ‘You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.’”
Peace and grace,
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Our church council will be looking for two people to serve a three-year term beginning in January, 2021. The council meets once each month and is responsible for authorizing and paying bills, discussing any ongoing matters within the congregation, and serve as a liaison with one of the Ebenezer committees. If you are interested in serving our church in this way, please contact Ken Lisowe at (920) 418-0020. |
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Sunday School is scheduled to reopen on Sunday, October 18 (please note that the date has been changed from 10/4) at 8:00 am. It will have a much different look this year, but we are confident we will be offering our students a good Bible-based Christian education in a safe environment. We look forward to getting reacquainted once again!
Shirley Lisowe
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Mission Education News ... |
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After much consideration, the Mission Committee has decided to cancel our annual Cookie Walk due to concerns over the COVID-19 virus. All money from this fundraiser goes to OCWM, so please consider making a donation to Missions before the end of the year to help offset this loss.
Thank you and hopefully we will be back next year!
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Chili, Hot Apple Cider, And Homemade Pies! |
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With a title like that, life couldn’t get better!!! It’s that time of year again for our church's fundraiser at Heritage Orchard on October 9th and 10th. It usually coincides with the Rural Arts Road Show, but that organization has folded and the event has been canceled. Because of the interest and great turnout that event has had in the past, there are several businesses along the east shore of Lake Winnebago who are putting together something similar, including our very own church members, Vern and Ann Gasch, who own Heritage Orchard. It’s still in the makings so be looking for advertising that’s coming out soon.
In past years we’ve made brats and hamburgers for that event as our main food, but several years it’s been a little on the chilly side and folks seem to say they’ve "had enough brats and burgers for the summer." Last year, we had a little taste of how some chili went over on the chilly Fall day and had some great positive feedback, so this year we thought we’d do the whole thing around chili to coincide with those chilly Fall days coming up. Some folks want it with noodles and some don’t, so we thought we’d have a batch of both kinds to choose from! Of course, the Gasch’s at Heritage Orchard, have offered to have their State Award Winning Apple Cider available (we’ll serve it hot) along with their delicious pies for dessert. Food will be served from 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
We are asking for a few volunteers to cook up the chili, work the stand at Heritage Orchard, or just some donations for the food and accessories. Please consider helping out your own church by volunteering to help out the different organizations of the church. Of course, we’ll take all precautions to abide by the rules and regulations of COVID-19.
If you have any questions (or concerns) or wish to volunteer, please contact:
or
Support your church and enjoy a fun-filled day!!!😊😊😊
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Confirmation Update ...
Due to the current severe outbreak of the Coronavirus, Confirmation class will be held virtually until further notice.
We will meet via Zoom on Wednesday nights from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
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Tuesday Morning Bible Study
Due to the current severe outbreak of the coronavirus, the Tuesday morning Wired Word is postponed until further notice.
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Join the Ushering Team!
Since opening the sanctuary for Sunday morning worship in July, the ushering duties have changed a bit. We now have need of 3 ushers each week to help with these responsibilities.
There is one person greeting people at each of the church entrances who ask the necessary screening questions during this COVID period, and a third person inside the sanctuary to assist in getting us safely seated and properly distanced. We no longer have ushers lighting and extinguishing candles, handling out bulletins, or collecting the offering.
We could use a few more volunteers to help with these duties. Scheduling should not be more than every 6 or 8 weeks. Obviously the more help we get, the less often you would be scheduled. Please give Shirley Lisowe (920) 418-1675) a call if you would be willing to help us out!
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Morning Bible Study
Pastor Mike has begun a daily morning Bible study Monday through Friday. The study is on the same YouTube channel as the weekly sermons. The daily study is posted at 6:15 a.m. and can be viewed anytime after that.
I hope you tune in and begin your day with a short study.
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Can You Help?
This difficult this time of social distancing has been very hard on senior residents, as well as their staff. Most residents are stuck in their rooms or at best the hall, and are separated from their families and loved ones.
Wisconsin Council for Health and Human Service Ministries has compiled a list of ways that congregations can offer help and caring. Help could be as simple as writing notes of encouragement, baking cookies to share, or providing some board games - anything would make a big difference for those in the CHHSM agencies.
If you are willing to help, click here for the list.
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Ebenezer Brass
Ebenezer Brass had a meeting on September 2 to discuss the possibility of having handbells play in church. Due to a number of reasons, it was decided that we would not have scheduled practices, and will not be playing as a full choir in church. However, any handbell member wanting to do a solo/duet/trio is welcome to.
Unfortunately, we also decided to cancel our annual December Christmas concert. Discussion was held on the possibility of having a spring
concert.
We will meet again on November 4 at 6:00 p.m. in hopes that we can get a group together to play Christmas Eve.
If anyone has any questions or concerns, please contact Jill Sippel at 920-418-1534.
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Assistance Needed ...
EUCC's Evangelism Committee is in need of help picking up the flower pots from local businesses in October. Helpers would pick up the flower pots and bring them to Heritage Orchard. If you are able to help, contact Vern or Ann Gasch!
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Sunday Services
The church realizes that some people are reluctant to return to church for in-person worship. We understand your concern, and while we will do everything we can to protect worshippers from the Coronavirus, we understand the need for you to stay home to be extra certain you are safe.
Pastor Mike will continue to supply worship services on Sunday morning; they will be available on YouTube Sunday mornings at 8:45.
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Be mindful of the symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread: |
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Ebenezer Church Council
Meeting Minutes: September 20, 2020
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Meeting called to order at 11:05 a.m.
Present: Ken Lisowe, Zach Platner, Andy Hofmeister, Joan Woelfel, Dennis Winkler, Pastor Mike
Zach Platner made a motion to approve the agenda and last month's minutes, Joan Woelfel seconded the motion, and it carried.
Treasurer's Report:
Dennis Winkler made a motion to approve the Treasurer's Report, Joan Woelfel seconded, and it carried.
Pastor's Report:
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The Wired Word is postponed until the first Wednesday in October due to increasing numbers of COVID in the county (9/23 UPDATE: this class is postponed until further notice)
- Confirmation classes are scheduled to begin September 23. They can be held via Zoom due to COVID cases.
- Morning prayer time via Pastor Mike's YouTube channel is available and started on September 21. The lessons/prayers are released at 6:15 a.m.
- We averaged 20 people per service for attendance in church.
There was discussion on a date to re-open Sunday School. Joan Woelfel made a motion to start Sunday school the first Sunday of October, and that we continue to monitor conditions with COVID cases. Andy Hofmeister seconded that motion, and it carried. *The Sunday School start date has been moved to 10/18*
Committee Reports
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Mission: There was discussion about when we will officially confirm students from confirmation class last year
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Stewardship: We sent the drive-in donation to Steve and Wendy Schilling per request of the Twilight Theater. This was our "Thank You" to them for use of their theater for our church services while we were not in the building. We received a Thank You card from Steve and Wendy.
Continuing Business
- There was discussion about lights, sidewalks, and gutters. Ken will talk with his contacts about these things.
New Business
- There was discussion about COVID updates
Andy Hofmeister made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Joan Woelfel seconded the motion, and the meeting was adjourned at 11:47 a.m.
Minutes Submitted by:
Andy Hofmeister
Approved by: The Church council via email.
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Tod ~ David ~ Lorraine ~ Da’Nisha ~ Vern
Pastor Sue ~ Zachary ~ Da'Monique
DeKerf Family ~ Norm ~ Patrice
Diane ~ Arlene ~ Rebecca ~ Vern ~ Gary
David ~ Audrey ~ Rod ~ Jeff ~ Kathy ~ Sharon
Steve ~ Janice ~ Ryann ~ Diana ~ Betty
Don ~ Terri Ann ~ Mary ~ Bob ~ Audra
Due to privacy laws, last names cannot be printed on the prayer list because the Eagle goes on the church website which can be viewed by anyone on the Internet.
Thank you.
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Neighbors In Need Special Offering: The Neighbors in Need Special Mission Offering will be taking place on October 4, 2020. Envelopes will be placed in the pew starting September 27.
About the NIN Offering: The United Church of Christ’s history is rooted in supporting justice work, and through the use of virtual settings, we continue to bring programs and services to our communities in need of assistance. We are presenting webinars that inform and uplift, and even held our first-ever online National Youth Event in July where nearly 2,000 youth and young adults participated. Thank you for your support that helps us stand front and center with those working toward a just world for all.
Visitation List: If you know someone who is ill/homebound that you would like to add to Pastor Mike's Visitation List, please contact the office (include a contact number and address).
Building Use Form: If you would like to use the Fellowship Hall, please fill out the Building Use Form and return it to the office. We require a completed form for all events in the Fellowship Hall that are not related to EUCC (if you are planning multiple events, i.e. a recurring meeting, you only need to fill the form out once.)
Newsletter Articles are due to the office on the 3rd Tuesday of the month (unless posted otherwise); be sure to check the calendar for the month’s due date. Please also share any pictures for inclusion!
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Scrip: If you are in need of Scrip, please let Kelly know. If you are interested in re-loadable cards and direct pay to avoid contact, there is a small fee for credit card charge and bank withdrawal.
Kelly Brown
920-418-0351
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Garrett Ditter: Oct 1
Donna Pingel: Oct 1
Dawson Kuhn: Oct 2
Gabriel Goodrich: Oct 2
Tony Hintz: Oct 3
Elaine Hessil: Oct 4
Kay Hertel: Oct 8
Krysta Roehrig: Oct 9
Sue Verrier: Oct 11
Shirley Ramey: Oct 15
Oliver Porsche: Oct 16
Delmar Riesterer; Oct 18
Vernon Thede: Oct 19
Mackenzie Brown: Oct 21
Kelly Goodrich: Oct 21
Sterling Brown: Oct 21
Kurt Knoespel: Oct 24
Steve Dvorak: Oct 25
Ann Gasch: Oct 26
Riley Schneider: Oct 28
Aubrey Plate: Oct 28
Gerald Pagel: Oct 30
Trinity Kubichka: Oct 30
Kelly Kloehn: Oct 31
May God bless your years and may you continue to bless Ebenezer!
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Ebenezer Office Hours:
*Until further notice, the church office remains closed.*
(920) 849-4331
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Pastor's Cell Phone: (920) 286-1956
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*The Wired Word Bible Study has been postponed until further notice!*
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St. John will resume in-person worship this Sunday, October 4 (NO MORE Drive-in!) at 10:15 a.m.
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Envelopes for the Neighbors in Need Special Offering are in the pews this week; the offering will take place next Sunday, October 4.
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Copies of the September/October ADRC Newsletter, The ADRC Connection, are available on the Narthex table.
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The September/October Upper Room is available in the Narthex.
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Foot Care Clinics are again being offered in September and October; see the board for details!
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The Alzheimer’s Association is offering Virtual Support Groups; dates and times are on the board.
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The Chilton American Legion Auxiliary will be hosting a Drive-Thru Carryout Spaghetti Supper on Thursday, October 8 at St. Martin Lutheran Church from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. The flyer is on the bulletin board.
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See the board for information on the Interfaith Education event scheduled for November 14, 2020, at Lakeland University.
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A pew card for those that give electronically is available for placement in the offering plates on Sunday mornings.
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Please email the office to schedule any needed appointments with Pastor Mike.
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