CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH
| Your Weekly E-Newsletter -- Thursday, April 20, 2023 | |
Pastor Ken's Pondering This Week | |
“You are chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light”
I Peter 2:9 (NIV)
Peter may be the most famous of the disciples of the Lord. If jokes about heaven are to be believed, (and they’re not) it’s Saint Peter who requires some convincing when a sinner reaches “the pearly gates.” Should he let you in or not? Yet for all his intimate knowledge of Jesus, (who beside Peter himself knew he’d denied his Lord three times or that his forgiver three times lovingly restored him by the lakeside), Peter is not a major contributor to the Bible. From Peter we have only two short letters bearing his name (plus possibly a gospel attributed to Mark but bearing all the indicators of having been Peter’s testimony).
Rarely therefore are I and II Peter read in church services. For the next five weeks, Ben Blobaum and I will be preaching a series of messages on selections from I Peter. The very first line of I Peter tells us that the apostle is writing to Jewish Christians who have been scattered across the Mediterranean basin. It is important to our understanding of this book that Peter addresses fellow Christians as “God’s elect, strangers in the world” (a theme I will delve into in my message this coming week). Jesus, in Peter’s hearing, once said (in Matthew 25) “I was a stranger and you welcomed me”…God to the nation of Israel said, “remember you were aliens in a foreign land”. The Epistles of I and II Peter are addressed to people who, because of their faith, are “strange” to people around them – both Jews and non-Jews.
And yet, Peter says, though they cling to a faith in a God they do not see, “they are receiving the goal of that faith … the salvation of their souls.” Because of that faith, they are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation…” Because of that faith, because they have “set apart in their hearts Christ as Lord”, they can “give an answer, with gentleness and respect, to everyone who asks for a reason for the hope that lies within them.” Because of that faith, they can “cast all their anxieties on (Jesus), because he cares for them.”
I and II Peter are written to people who know they are “passing through” – who know this earth is not their home, and for that reason it presents a compelling challenge to Christians of every era who might have, or be tempted to conclude otherwise – for whom this world has become very comfortable. I Peter, despite being written as an exhortation to the faithful to “purify yourselves by obeying the truth” is nevertheless a message of hopeful endurance for people who have purified themselves by faith in Christ but are still regarded as “strange” to the surrounding world.
They are persecuted people, so we will use these next five weeks to lift up examples of how we can learn from Christians whose experience of faith included being discouraged, overwhelmed, devastated –feelings that can wash over people who suffer. It is no different if the suffering is communal rather than personal. Suffering has many forms – debilitating disease, physical or emotional abuse, social ostracism or outright persecution. These can easily cause a person to give up, give in, and surrender to the pain or the cause of that pain.
“So always be ready” Peter says, to “give an account of the hope that lies within you.” This great epistle will form the bulk of my final sermons at Calvary. The sermon Ben preaches will likely be the last one he gives before completing his internship. We felt it would be fitting to end our service at Calvary dwelling in a portion of Scripture attributed to an Apostle whom Jesus named “Petros – ‘rock’ in Aramaic”, who was at the same time a very fragile stone, more aware of the cost and preciousness of grace than most. This is something all believers should be so fortunate to discover.
We hope you will enjoy and be strengthened by our messages.
Because of a cross,
Pastor Ken Nelson
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Special Movie Event for All - TONIGHT! April 20 at 6:00 p.m.
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"Bonhoeffer"
A documentary produced by Journey Films
Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s writings continue to influence the church today, and for that reason, the Men’s Ministry of Calvary is hosting a showing of a 90-minute documentary on his life and legacy on Thursday, April 20. All Calvary members are invited to attend – and we encourage you to invite others as well. There will be a light supper served at 6:00 p.m., followed by the film and brief discussion time afterwards. We hope to conclude the evening by about 8:15 p.m.
“It is right and fitting that such a life gets our attention” wrote a reviewer in the Washington Post. The Minneapolis Tribune wrote “An inspiring portrait of one of the great moral heroes of the 20th Century.”
But Bonhoeffer would have dismissed such – as we will see in the film. To him, as the Apostle Paul wrote, “to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” He saw himself as no moral hero, but as a disciple of Jesus, taking up the cross of courage in the face of tyranny. His faithfulness as a servant of the servant king stands in contrast to the cult of personality that infects so many in our world today. Yes, Bonhoeffer lived and died nearly a century ago, but the challenges to the church that he faced, while less obviously evil, are nonetheless just as fatal to our witness if not confronted and repented of.
If your schedule allows, please join us for this extremely well-done presentation of the life and legacy of this disciple of Jesus. All are invited - bring a friend or neighbor!
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Key points from the Church Council meeting on April 18
- Council has been tasked with investigating the utilization of supply pastors and/or interim pastor(s) following Pastor Ken's retirement
- Council members will be engaging in a Future Vision for Calvary Retreat in May (May 9th or May 13th - final date to be determined)
- A Farewell Reception for Pastoral Intern Ben Blobaum is being planned for Sunday, May 28th
- Obtained encouraging updates on status of the upcoming Leonard Sax "Parenting Today: Strategies for Success" event (April 26-27), learning that a bonus (free) session has been addeded for Thursday (April 27th) afternoon, beginning at 3:30pm ("Why Gender Matters-What Parents need to know about the emerging science of male-female brain development"). There is still time for Calvary members to register to attend, and to share the event information with family members or friends
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Save the Date!
The annual Walk for Water with Pastor Ken will be held on Saturday, May 20. We will begin the Walk this year at Calvary at 9:00 a.m. This event is a short walk around the neighborhood, with a fun twist.
It is a fundraiser for Compassion International and all monies collected will be forwarded to Compassion for its safe water programs. Special thanks to Thrivent for their support of our Walk which covers the cost of refreshments and prizes.
More details to follow in the coming weeks.
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Dr. Leonard Sax Coming to Calvary | |
FREE ADDITIONAL SESSION ADDED!
Thursday Afternoon, April 27 at 3:30 p.m.
Dr. Sax will give a presentation for parents at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday April 27 entitled “Why Gender Matters – What Parents need to know about the emerging science of male-female brain development” This session will last about 90 minutes and delve into the science of the auditory, visual, learning and language acquisition differences between boys and girls. It would be valuable for parents of younger children who are interested in how boys' and girls' brains develop and how boys and girls learn, perceive and react to situations in life differently, etc. Dr. Sax will also devote a portion of his address to the issue of gender identity in our culture – what is behind the rise in the number of people, including adolescents, who identify as something other than their biological sex.
This session is open to all. As a “bonus” offering there is no fee for attending.
Leonard Sax, MD, PhD, has built an international reputation as an expert in child and adolescent development. He is the New York Times best-selling author of four books: The Collapse of Parenting, Why Gender Matters, Boys Adrift and Girls on the Edge.
Calvary is excited to bring Dr. Sax to Brookfield on April 26 - 27. Dr. Sax will spend two evenings with us, presenting important information for parents.
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
6:00 p.m. Evidence-based Parenting
Strategies to improve the odds for your son or daughter
7:30 p.m. Girls on the Edge - TikTok Ate My Daughter
Factors driving the increase in anxiety and depression in today’s girls
Thursday, April 27, 2023
6:00 p.m. Beyond Resilience
Why so many American kids today are so fragile
7:30 p.m. Boys Adrift - My Son Won’t Stop Playing Video Games
Factors driving the growing epidemic of unmotivated boys
There is a small registration fee of $10/household per day to attend the sessions. Due to space limitations, pre-registration is required. A link to the registration and payment site is below. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.
We hope you'll join us - bring a friend or neighbor! Extra copies of the flyer are on the OPPORTUNITIES kiosk - please take one and share it with a parent who might be interested in attending.
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You can view the video that Pastor Ken had with Dr. Sax by following the link below. | |
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Third Sunday of Easter
April 22-23, 2023
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PRESIDING MINISTER: Pastor Ken Nelson
ASSISTING MINISTER: Pastor Jerry Wittmus
DEACONS: Saturday: Ernie Kretschmann
Sunday: Linda Thorpe, Sue Rowe, Bill Graffin
ACOLYTES:
- Amelia Evert and Xavier Griese
CHILDREN'S MESSAGE:
USHERS:
- George Sedivec and Ed Ramthun
LECTOR:
ALTAR GUILD:
GREETERS:
- John and Mary Lau
- Peggy Langelin
FELLOWSHIP:
FLOWERS:
- Ed Ramthun and Cathy Way in celebration of 21st wedding anniversary
POWERPOINT TECH:
- Jeanette Kalupa/Saturday
- Sue Rowe/Sunday
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Faith Formation/Youth Ministry | |
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An Investment Opportunity that Pays Lifetime Dividends!
The Calvary youth announce the Public Offering of Calvary Youth Stock. The Calvary Youth Stock allows you to invest financially and at the same time, reap spiritually. Stock proceeds will be used for youth programs. This iincludes the High School Mission Trip when nine of our youth will travel to Imperial, PA this June to participate in a variety of service projects in the community. They will be joining other youth from across the country for this meaningful week. Stock proceeds will also support our youth who attend Lutherdale Bible Camp in Elkhorn, WI.
The purchase of youth stock does so much more than just provide money for summer camp and mission trips. It is a way to have a sense of ownership in the growing faith of our amazing youth. As a stockholder you will receive updates from our youth on their experiences as well as a stock certificate. Not only is your stock purchase tax deductible, it will only appreciate with the growth in our youth’s faith.
Due to high interest in this great performing investment, we will be offering 150 shares for purchase at a cost of $25 per share. Stock will be sold the weekends April 29-30 and May 6-7. You can also purchase your stock share(s) online using the following link: Home | Calvary Lutheran Church (myvanco.com)
Thank you for investing in the enrichment of the faith of our youth.
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Handmade Card Sale
Several years ago the youth of Calvary created beautiful handmade cards for all occasions.
These three-dimensional cards will be available for purchase the weekends of April 29-30 and May 6-7 in the Narthex.
Packets (2-4 cards) are $6 each or two packets for $10. These cards will be cherished by your recipients or make great gifts. Plan now to get these beautiful cards.
All proceeds will benefit our Youth programs.
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Pastor Ken's Weekly Bible Study
Pastor Ken invites you to join him every Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall for his weekly Bible Study.
He will present the readings for the upcoming weekend, followed by discussion and insight.
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Register today for this summer's VBS!
Launch kids on a cosmic quest where they’ll have a blast shining Jesus’ light to the world. Stellar rockets kids on an out-of-this-world adventure that’s light years of faith-building fun.
Volunteers can also sign up via the link below. We couldn't do our VBS without the help of so many wonderful volunteers. Please consider helping us again this year!
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Vacation Bible School
July 31 - August 4
9:00 a.m. - Noon
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Dave Altman, 4/21
Nicole Nowicki, 4/22
Megan Scott, 4/22
Ruth Brostowitz, 4/23
Lois Gehrke, 4/23
Bruce Steffens, 4/23
Jerry Wittmus, 4/24
Lee Tyne, 4/25
Mary Ellen Thiede, 4/27
Matt Powers, 4/29
RoJean Holler, 5/1
Beverly Lawson, 5/2
Ava Morris, 5/2
John Kalupa, 5/3
Piper Nowicki, 5/3
Al Rodriguez, 5/3
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Rich and Tina Baumgartner, 4/20 (32 years)
Tom and Sue Sadowsky, 4/20 (38 years)
Tom and Mary Ellen Thiede, 4/24 (47 years)
Chuck and Jan Lukasik, 4/25 (42 years)
Chuck and Norene Giuliani, 4/26 (43 years)
Ed Ramthun and Cathy Way, 4/27 (21 years)
Larry and Bonnie Vasatko, 5/3 (54 years)
Kevin and Cathy Wahlgren, 5/9 (36 years)
Tony and Krista Dentice, 5/10 (9 years)
Scott and Lisa Grossman, 5/14 (46 years)
Bill and Betty Clayton, 5/15 (58 years)
Jeffrey and Melissa Griese, 5/19 (19 years)
Chris and Leah Morris, 5/30 (25 years)
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New prayers requests or any updates to this current list should be directed to Cindy Zilske in the Church office (office@calvarylc.com).
New prayer requests: Hunter Green (nephew of Andy and Angie Schatz)
God's grace and blessings on our youth receiving their First Communion this weekend: Noah Ciszewski, Sophia Peters, Olivia Peters and Oliva Schlieve
Please continue to pray for: God’s guidance and support for our Call Committee, and that the Holy Spirit is working in the heart of the pastor He wishes to call as the next pastor of Calvary.
Ongoing short-term prayer requests: Sue Rowe; Tom Thiede; Maxine Weisbrodt; Jan Chesner; Grace Gunnlaugsson; Jonni Roush; Tom Schatz (father of Andy Schatz); Susie Barnhart and Amy Clark (friends of Megan Scott); Jan Janchan (friend of Jonni Roush); Delores Seel (mother of Keith Pierce); Karen (daughter of Linda Thorpe's neighbor); Gary Zikmund (friend of George Sedivec); Elaine Wempen (aunt of Ed Ramthun); Andy Jacobs (friend of Evelyn Ceci); Mary (sister-in-law of Jane Taufner); Lynn Strickland (father of Nicole Moritz); Kira (daughter of a friend of Jessica Dudzik); Tony Shemberger (father of Amy Blobaum); Ray-Ann, granddaughter of David Ernst;
Serving in the Military: Dan Berger (serving in the U.S. Marines); Kevin Butler (son of Heidi Powers, serving in the U.S. Army); Ben DeYoung (son-in-law of George and Kay Sedivec, serving in the U.S. Air Force); Alex Olson (U.S. Air Force, grandchild of Ardath Olson); Kyle Pierce (son of Karen and Keith Pierce, serving in the U.S. Army); Karmen Thomas (friend of Tony and Krista Dentice serving in the U.S. Army); Nicole Wahlgren (serving in the U.S. Army National Guard); all military chaplains; and all veterans suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
For All Men and Women Serving: Police Officers, Firefighters, EMT's; Health Care workers and First Responders.
Serving in the mission field: Our NALC missionaries and missionaries everywhere bringing the gospel to the ends of the Earth.
Long-term prayer list:
Calvary members: Pat Corcoran; Ron Foster; Tom Kurtz; Beverly Lawson; Shirley Mahn; Myrna Mavroff; Donna Schroeder; Nadine Schuelke; Gloria Strei; Pat Treutelaar; Janet Zastrow
Non-members: Gerry Fosdal (friend of Linda Thorpe); Tom Bruns (brother of Carol Rooney); Lauren (granddaughter of Scott and Peggy Langelin); Joe Dentice (father of Tony Dentice); Nicole Sayas (daughter in law of Judy Sayas); Dennis Reich (friend of John and Mary Lau); Curt (friend of Larry Bonier); Pastor Mark Gehrke (son of Lois Gehrke); Barb Anderson (friend of Lisa Grossman); Gareth George (cousin of Judy Sayas); Rose Luther (friend of Nicole Moritz); Judy Grospitz; Monica Barchus (niece of Ernie Kretschmann); Michael Rossa (Lucy Dallman's son); Karen (friend of Lydia Trudell); John Nielson (brother of Judy Kestly); Susan Petropoulos (sister of Wayne Johnson); Tom Dallman (husband of Lucy Dallman); Laura Lynn (friend of Pastor Jerry and Nancy Wittmus)
If you have any new prayer requests, please contact the church office at 262.786.4010 or via email to office@calvarylc.com.
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Women’s Book Group – Monday, May 8
Harnischfeger Room -Brookfield Public Library
12:30 – 2:00 pm
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
Eight months since losing her mother in the Spanish flu outbreak of 1919, 21-year-old Lillian Carter's life has completely fallen apart. For the past six years, under the moniker Angelica, Lillian was one of the most sought-after artists' models in New York City, with statues based on her figure gracing landmarks from the Plaza Hotel to the Brooklyn Bridge. But with her mother gone, a grieving Lillian is rudderless and desperate --- the work has dried up and a looming scandal has left her entirely without a safe haven.
So when she stumbles upon an employment opportunity at the Frick mansion --- a building that, ironically, bears her own visage --- Lillian jumps at the chance. But the longer she works as a private secretary to the imperious and demanding Helen Frick, the daughter and heiress of industrialist and art patron Henry Clay Frick, the more deeply her life gets intertwined with that of the family --- pulling her into a tangled web of romantic trysts, stolen jewels and family drama that runs so deep, the stakes just may be life or death.
Nearly 50 years later, mod English model Veronica Weber has her own chance to make her career --- and with it, earn the money she needs to support her family back home --- within the walls of the former Frick residence, now converted into one of New York City's most impressive museums. But when she --- along with a charming intern/budding art curator named Joshua --- is dismissed from the Vogue shoot taking place at the Frick Collection, she chances upon a series of hidden messages in the museum: messages that will lead her and Joshua on a hunt that not only could solve Veronica's financial woes, but could finally reveal the truth behind a decades-old murder in the infamous Frick family.
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April Mission of the Month
Serenity Inns
In Milwaukee alone, between 1500 – 2000 people are homeless and of those, over 90% have substance abuse problems. An estimated 80% of the current 20,000+ inmates in the Wisconsin prison system are incarcerated because of drug related activities. When men are released from prison, they often times lack the strength and foundation needed to lead a drug and alcohol free life. They struggle to find jobs, housing, and even individuals who will help them down the road of recovery.
Deaths from heroin overdose in Wisconsin and nationwide have become a public health crisis. According to Ashley Luthern of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, (Feb. 18, 2015), “Heroin-related deaths in Milwaukee County skyrocketed by 72% last year compared with 2013, according to data released by the Milwaukee County medical examiner’s office.” In 2014 as in 2013, there were more heroin-related deaths in Milwaukee County (119 in 2014) than motor vehicle deaths (74 in 2014). The national trend is at least as tragic with a 39% increase in heroin deaths from 2012 to 2013, the latest year that data is available.
Serenity Inn provides a comprehensive, seven month transitional living program. This program addresses the physical, social, emotional, financial, and spiritual needs of its residents.
Serenity Inn's mission is to offer an opportunity for holistic recovery from addiction and alcoholism to men who need it most, in a compassionate community of accountability. Their vision is a world where addicts and alcoholics who choose recovery may find it.
To support this important Mission of the Month, you may include it in your weekly offering envelope or designate the donation as "Mission of the Month" in your online giving.
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Worship Attendance and Giving Options | |
Online giving provides options!
While cash and checks are always welcome, the “Give Online” button on the Calvary Lutheran Church website provides another option. And, with the expansion of our vendor’s software, the options are now expanded and customized. In addition to giving to the General Operating Fund, Building Fund and Mission of the Month, you can now specify contributions for Altar Flowers, Sunday Morning Fellowship Treats, NALC, etc.
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Please note that contributions to the Mission of the Month are allocated to the organization for the month in which the donation is made
If you have any questions or would like to make a pledge, please contact Cindy Rooks, Finance Secretary, via email at finance@calvarylc.com or (262) 786-4010.
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Giving to the NALC Campaign | Just a reminder that contributions to the NALC's 20/20 Vision Campaign need to be designated as "NALC" either on your giving envelope or on your check. If you have any questions, please contact Cindy Rooks at finance@calvarylc.com. | |
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Weekly Men's Breakfast
Wednesdays at 7 a.m.
Maxim's Restaurant
18025 W. Capitol Drive
Brookfield
The restaurant seating has been reconfigured in compliance with social distancing requirements.
All men are invited to attend!
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Monthly Men's Ministry
Fellowship Hall
Thursday, May 18
6:00 p.m. Supper
Study to follow
If you have any questions, please contact Ernie Kretschmann at erniekretschmann@gmail.com
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Do you need a new Church Directory? |
The Calvary Church Directory is available electronically or in paper format. If you'd like an electronic copy, please send an email to Sue Rowe at communications@calvarylc.com.
There are also printed copies available in the church office.
If there are any changes to your phone, email or address, please advise the Church office. Any updates should be submitted to Cindy Zilske at office@calvarylc.com.
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Sanctuary Flowers
A wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or remember a loved one is by sponsoring flowers at our altar. The cost is $35 and you may take them home following the Sunday morning worship. (If you'd prefer, you can leave the flowers at church to be enjoyed in the church office.)
The sign-up sheet is posted on the bulletin board in the Narthex, near the door to Fellowship Hall.
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We invite you to provide
Hospitality Treats on Sunday
We invite you to stay after worship on Sunday mornings and enjoy fellowship time and a treat/cup of coffee in Fellowship Hall.
If you'd like to provide treats (donuts, bagels, etc.) for Sunday hospitality time, there is a sheet on the bulletin board in Fellowship Hall. You may bring the treats (six dozen) and drop them off in the kitchen, or simply add a “P” behind your name, pay $30 to the church office and the treats will be purchased for you.
The sign up sheet for 2023 has been posted on the bulletin board. Thank you for your support!
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Live Stream Attendance Link |
If you watch our services via the Live Stream, please take a minute to let us know. There is now a link called "Online Worship Attendance" on the page where you access each week's service.
We appreciate you taking the time to complete this each week. It helps us know that our Live Stream is being viewed and by whom.
Thank you!
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The right side of the Sanctuary (as you face the altar) is equipped with a hearing loop system which transmits an audio signal directly into a hearing aid via a magnetic field. This greatly reduces background noise, competing sounds, reverberation and other acoustic distortions that reduce clarity of sound.
Most hearing aids are equipped with a t-coil and connecting to this system is an easy switch on the hearing aid. If you need assistance during worship with this system, please reach out to an usher or any staff member.
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The church office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until noon. The door that is closest to the office (NW corner) will be open during those hours.
Please check in with the office staff so we know you are in the building.
The office phone number is (262) 786-4010. Feel free to leave a message if you call after hours and we will contact you the next day.
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Facing tough times? Need a Christian Friend?
Stephen Ministry is here to help. Free, just like God's love.
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Stephen Ministers are congregation members trained by Stephen Leaders to offer high-quality, one-to-one Christian care to people going through tough times. A Stephen Minister usually provides care to one person at a time, meeting with that person once a week for about an hour.
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from this important ministry, please contact Scott or Peggy Langelin at 262.853.0018.
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