|
You are welcome at Hutto Lutheran Church
regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, belief, income level or education. We invite you to be a part of this faith community
| | |
Our Mission
We are one body in Christ, sent in Faith to share God's Love, through Worship, Service, Fellowship and Witness.
| |
24th Sunday After Pentecost
November 23, 2025
| | |
Paraments color: WHITE
Scripture Readings for November 23, 2025
Jeremiah’s promise of the execution of “justice and righteousness in the land” finds ironic fulfillment in the execution of Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews. It appears utterly contradictory that a king should be crucified with a criminal. This victory appears for all the world as humiliating defeat. Yet through the gate of death Jesus opens the door to paradise.
Jeremiah 23:1-6; Psalm 46; Colossians 1:11-20; Luke 23:33-43
| | |
Grace and peace to you,
As the days grow shorter and the holidays approach, there is an extra energy in the air - the joy of expectation.
But at the same time, this time of year can also make the pain inside much more apparent as we take in the empty seats at the thanksgiving and Christmas table.
This past Sunday's texts spoke about the challenges of the call of being a Christian - the suffering that we face because of God's name, and seeking God's will in our lives and world.
But there is a whole other category of suffering that we face - both the loss of the ones we love and experiences of pain because of the broken world we live in.
This past Sunday we began practices for our Christmas play on December 14th. At the end of the practice we stopped to ask the question of why, why do we tell this story year after year?
We hear in this story a God who chooses to be born not in the best our world could offer, with the greatest medical teams and amenities, but instead in a stable. The beginning of Jesus' life sets the tone for his entire ministry - one where day after day, person after person, he meets others in their suffering.
Holding you in prayer as you hold in your hearts those who have gone before. Praying that you may feel God's presence and peace.
God’s peace,
Pastor Amanda
| | The HLC Office will be closed the week of November 24th-28th for the Thanksgiving Holiday. | |
Pulpit Swap, November 23rd
Pastor Jeremy Ullrich, Pastor Amanda's husband, will be coming to worship on November 23rd and Pastor Amanda will be leading worship at St. John Lutheran Church in Bartlett.
| | | | | | As Thanksgiving approaches, the Knot Perfect Quilters would like to thank each and every one who helped us this year to be able to donate 61 quilts to Lutheran World Relief. We would especially like to thank those who participated in the quilt raffle held November 2. Becky Zimmerman and Johnny Walker were the lucky winners. We sold $453.39 in tickets and had generous donations of $355.00. After expenses, we cleared $745.11. We will use this money primarily for batting, but also for other supplies needed throughout the year. We hope to surpass this year’s number of quilts to bless next fall. Thank you again. | | | |
Hanging of the Greens
Nov 29th, 8:00am
We will be decorating the church for the Advent / Christmas season Saturday, November 29th, beginning at 8 AM. On Sunday, November 30th we will be hanging Chrismons on the tree as part of the worship service.
| | | |
Christmas Play Updates & Participant Call
We’re gearing up for our Christmas play and would love for performers, scripture readers, candle lighters, shepherds, and angels to join us! Adults and youth are welcome, and both reading and non-reading parts are available.
Important dates and details:
• No practice or Sunday School on Nov. 23
• Sunday, Nov. 30 at 9:00 AM – Meet in the Fellowship Hall, walk over to the 502 to select costumes, then return for a run-through in the sanctuary
• Dec. 7 at 9:00 AM – Full play run-through
• Dec. 14 at 9:00 AM – All actors/actresses arrive early to get into costume and do final practice
• Dec. 14 at 10:30 AM – Christmas Program during worship — please come join us!
We hope you’ll be part of this meaningful and joyful Christmas tradition!
| | | |
Calling All Youth - Summer Camp is Coming!
We’re excited to announce that students who have completed 2nd–9th grade will be heading to Camp Chrysalis the week of June 14–19, 2026! Our Confirmation students will be attending Camp Ebert during that same week, making it a full and faith-filled experience for everyone.
If your child is interested in attending camp this summer, please let me know. A $175 deposit is due by December 28, and the youth will work together to fundraise the remaining tuition. If your family needs assistance with the deposit or a little more time, please reach out—support is available.
We’re asking all families to confirm their youth’s participation so we can plan ahead. Camper registration opens in December, and we want to be sure every child who wants to go gets a spot and doesn’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!
| | |
Special Music For Christmas Eve Services
I have no gift to bring to lay before the king, shall I play for him? Calling all musicians for special music offering at 4:30pm or 7:30pm Christmas Eve worship services.
Please call or email the church office office@huttolutheranchurch.org by November 30th.
| | |
Stuffed Animal Collection
Feeding of the 5000 is collecting new or gently used 4-12 inch stuffed animals to give out for Breakfast with Santa. Please bring donations by Sunday, November 30th.
| | | | | |
Midweek Advent Worship
Wednesdays Dec 3, 10 and 17
6:00 Meal 7:00 Worship
Join us for a simple meal and midweek Prayer Around the Cross worship service this advent. Sign up to help with a meal on the sign up sheets in the Narthex.
| | |
VBS Feedback and Interest Meeting
There will be a Vacation Bible School interest meeting on Sunday, January 4th after church. VBS feedback forms will be available Sunday, November 23rd in the Narthex. Please return to the office or by email office@huttolutheranchurch.org by December 14th.
| | |
Christmas Poinsettias
This holiday season the church is purchasing 24 poinsettias from Down Home Ranch and would like to offer church members an opportunity to obtain a Poinsettia in honor of, or in memory of a loved one. The Poinsettias will be displayed along the altar during the Advent season. An insert with your name and those of whom you wish to honor or remember will be included in the Christmas Eve service bulletin.
All orders need to be placed and paid for by Sunday, December 14th, 2025.
| | |
OWLS Luncheon
The OWLS will be meeting in the fellowship hall on Tuesday, December 2, for our Christmas gathering from 11:00AM until 2:00PM. There will be a Saint Nicholas presentation by Pastor Travis Summerlin.
| | | | |
Breakfast with Santa
December 6th, 9:00-12:00pm
Join us December 6th for a Santa special edition of Breakfast with Santa for the community.
| |
Christmas Program
Join us for a Christmas program by the children and youth on Sunday, December 14th at 10:30 during our regular worship service.
| | | | | |
Youth Hangout Day!
Youth Hangout Day! Calling all youth! Join us for pizza, games, and fellowship right after church service!
We will also go caroling at 1pm. Bring a friend! Sunday Dec.14th in the 402.
Contact Monica Campos-Guerra 512-658-0586 if you have any questions.
| | |
Christmas Caroling
December 14th, 1:00pm
Hutto Lutheran youth (and anyone who enjoys caroling!) are invited to sing Christmas songs to HLC members.
Meet at the church office at 1:00 on December 14th and we will carpool to houses.
Please let Pastor Amanda know if you would be open to having carolers.
| | | | | |
TLU Christmas Vespers
Join us for one of Texas Lutheran University's most cherished traditions, the annual Christmas Vespers! This year’s theme, All Is Miracle, promises an unforgettable service filled with the joyous spirit of the season and music by the TLU choir. HLC members will be attending the vespers service at St. Martin's Lutheran Church in Austin on December 14 at 4:00pm. No tickets are required for the Austin service. For more information contact Johnny Walker 512-632-5801
| | |
Adult Catechism Class
Have you ever wondered the meaning and significance behind the things we say each week in worship like the Lord's Prayer, the Apostles Creed, the Ten Commandments, baptism and communion?
Sherry Fincher is leading a class on Martin Luther's Small Catechism and other Lutheran topics this fall on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 1:00pm at her home. For questions, text Sherry at 303-919-7770.
| | | | | |
Women's Bible Study
Sundays at 9:00am
Women's Bible study meets Sundays at 9:00am in the front room of the 502 Ministry center. Studying the book Max Lucado A friend like Jesus.
For more information contact Sherry Fincher, 303-919-7770.
| |
Adult Bible Study
*This class will be on break November 23rd and 30th and will meet December 7th and 14th and will be on break again resuming January 4th.
| | | | | | |
Youth Christian Education
*Youth Christian Education is on break during the holidays for Christmas play prep and practices. Regular classes will return after the new year.
| | | |
Knot Perfect Quilters
"Those who sleep under a quilt, sleep under a blanket of love."
The HLC Knot Perfect Quilters is a group that meets weekly to make quilts.
On the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays they meet at 2:30pm in the 502 Ministry Center. They use the quilt frame room to tie finished tops and the large room to match squares and design layouts to be sewn into tops.
On the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays members who sew meet in the fellowship hall from 9:00am to 12:00pm with their machines and supplies to sew blocks and piece tops. Others members lay out new quilt tops for sewing.
These quilts are sent to Lutheran World Relief to be distributed throughout the world where there is great need in times of hardship and disaster. All are welcome. Contact Barbara Sylvester. Email: bnsylvester@twc.com Cell: 903-819-4004.
| | | | | |
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Prayer Shawl Ministry Learn to knit or crochet on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month in the church office meeting room at 1 PM.
For more information, contact Jane Bolgen, 512-413-7242.
| | |
Feeding the 5,000
Join us every month on the 1st and 3rd Saturday morning from 9am to 12 Noon to help feed a free breakfast to the community. Volunteer opportunities are available for welcoming guests and spending time visiting with the community.
Feeding the 5000 (F5K) is instituting a new sign up system for volunteering on breakfast Saturdays: Please use this link. Also, just a reminder that a Food Handler’s card is required to work in the kitchen. There will also be a paper version in the Narthex. Please direct any questions to Jackie McGary or Irene Hackbarth.
| | | | |
HLC Music
Bell choir- If you are interested in playing in a bell quartet contact Frank Simon, 512-554-5741
Voice choir will practice every 2nd and 4th Sunday at 11:30AM in the sanctuary.
| | | | |
Mickman Brothers Gift It Forward
Do you have family or friends that you don’t know what to give them for Christmas this year? How about sending them a Holiday Wreath, Door Spray, Centerpiece, Table Top Tree, or Garland.
Go to Giftitforward.com, enter our Fundraising Code: HUTTOLTX001, then click on Apply Now. Select the items you want to purchase and follow directions. Mickman Brothers does the rest. They will mail your gift to the intended recipient.
For each Holiday Evergreen item purchased using our Fundraising Code, 15% is donated to Hutto Lutheran Church. Proceeds will be used to help feed Feeding the 5000 (F5K) community members. Also, for each item purchased, Mickman Brothers funds the planting of an evergreen seedling in one of the National and State Forests.
https://giftitforward.com/fundraising-code/HUTTOLTX001
If you have any questions, please contact Irene Hackbarth (512-496-8619).
| | | |
Financial Status
The Financial Status of HLC as of the end of October:
Total expenditures $204,774
Total income $207,362
Income over expenses by $2,588
Vision Fund contributions: $17,938.95
Attendance
Nov 2: 90
Nov 9: 94
Nov 16: 96
| | |
Prayer List
Have a prayer request? Email the Office with a prayer request for you or someone you love. Requests will be left on the list for a month. Feel free to submit request again for continued prayers.
Patty Krueger, Jill Johnson's sister, Beth Kuehn, niece of Joyce Johnson. Stan Graham, husband of Ann Graham, pastor in McDade, Gaylord Magnuson, friend of Anne and Johnny Walker, and Cathy Anderson, boss of Jaxon O'Malley. Clifford Albert, cousin of Joyce Johnson, Fran Cox, friend of Lynn Lidell, and John Burkholder, friend of Barb Kinnaman.
Barbie Johnson and Don Wiederhold.
Seeking personal prayer?
If your need is private, and you don't want your name publicly posted in this eLink your request can be shared with HLC's confidential prayer team. In life's difficult times (we all have them), know that HLC is ready to lift you up in prayer.
Know someone who could use a prayer blanket?
Many thanks to our prayer shawl ministry team for blankets made for HLC congregation. Supplies for fleece tie prayer blankets available to make a blanket for anyone in the community in need of prayer. Email Pastor Amanda pastor@huttolutheranchurch.org to find out more.
| |  | |
Worship Participants
Council Rep
Frank Simon
Altar Guild
Rodney Westphal
Cantor
Trudy Simon
Lector
Tami Johnson
Assisting Minister
Barbie Johnson
Communion Assistant
Sheryl Matthews
Children's Message
Claudia Cook
Wiggle Time
Tami Johnson & Barb Kinnaman
Altar Flowers
Max Ebert
Thanksgiving Moment
--
Worship Volunteers
We are the body of Christ, and everyone's gifts are important! We need your help.
Sign up to lead at the Hutto Lutheran Church.
If you want direction on leading let Pastor Amanda know and she can train you.
Greeter - Welcome members and guests, contact Darlene Rydell if you are interested, 512-269-8981.
Lector - Read the lessons for the day in worship.
Assisting Minister - One or two people to offer the prayers of intercession.
Communion Assistant - Assist with serving communion.
Altar Guild - Set up for and take down communion settings.
Thanksgiving moment - One person to share briefly (two or three minutes) something they are grateful for.
Altar Flowers provide flowers for both sides of the altar.
Feeding the 5,000 Volunteer sign up
| | |
November Birthdays
1 Suzanne Erickson
1 Andy Simon
1 Frank Simon
1 Glynda Vanecek
2 Alison Rydell
3 Lou Brown
6 Chris Graham
6 Emma Lawhon
7 Rebecca Berkenhoff
9 Brenda Finch
10 Christina Pompa
11 Monica Campos-Guerra
14 Katie Rydell
19 John Kaminski
20 Courtney Elkins
21 Dorothy Ebert
23 Carol Conrad
23 Priscilla McDonald
26 Sharon Holman
26 Brandt Rydell
| | | |
November Anniversaries
9 Ernie & Connie Schmeisser
| | |
Office Info
Pastor Amanda is in Hutto Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays either at the church or out making visits. If you would like to visit with her and want to confirm she will be in the office or schedule a time you can reach her by phone 512-636-9784 or by email pastor@huttolutheranchurch.org.
Office Hours
Office hours are Tuesday to Thursday 9 AM - 1 PM or by appointment.
Contact info
Reach the office by leaving a message on the Church phone (512) 759-2064 or email the church office at office@huttolutheranchurch.org
| | | | |
