St. John's Lutheran Church and School
The Mission
The Journal of St. John's Reaching Farther
May 9 - 15,2020
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Fifth Sunday of Easter
Sunday, May 10, 2020
(Online Service will be posted on Sunday at 7:30 AM)
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"
Resurrection Truth: God's Foundation For Every Home
"
Preacher:
Pastor Ben Roberts
Worship Leader: Pastor Mark Stapleton
First Reading: Acts 16:25-34
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:2-10
Holy Gospel: John 14:1-14
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On this Mother’s Day, when we celebrate the gift of God that is every mother, we celebrate in the midst of sadness. We are still continuing to pick up the pieces from COVID-19 and this stay at home order. What keeps us going during this crisis? What foundations do we build upon so that we will not be shaken? As we continue our Easter series, “Resurrection Truth”, we can really look at the Foundation of our homes, our church, and our community. This Foundation for every home and every family is the same foundation that brings us together as a church and God’s people: It’s the death and resurrection of Jesus who calls us as His people. He is building a house of “living stones”, which has as its foundation Himself, the “Living Stone”, so that we may together, as the household of God, proclaim His love and light to this world “shaken” from the effects of COVID-19.
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RESURRECTION TRUTH: 7 Truths To Hold Onto (Whether You’re In A Crisis Or Not)
Easter is the celebration that the crucified Savior Jesus has been raised from the dead. His tomb is empty. He is alive and therefore we, too, can live! The truth of the death and resurrection of Jesus will forever change the course of human history. Just as it did with the early church, it’s the same for the church today. In this series we will unpack certain passages from the Book of Acts, revealing 7 vital truths that, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, we need to trust and share now more than ever!
April 12 (Easter Sunday): God’s Resurrection Is For Everyone! (Acts 10:34-43)
April 19: God’s Mission Won’t Be Stopped (Acts 5:29-42)
April 26: God’s Word Is Powerful (Acts 2:14a, 36-41)
May 3 (Good Shepherd Sunday): God’s People Do Life Differently (Acts 2:42-47)
May 10 (Mother’s Day): God’s Foundation For Every Home (1 Peter 2:2-10)
May 17: God’s Church Is A Team (Acts 6:1-9; 7:2a; 51-60)
May 24 (Ascension Sunday): God’s Plan Is Clear (Acts 1:1-11)
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PLEASE VISIT OUR CHURCH WEBSITE FOR UPDATED LINKS
TO ALL OF OUR WORSHIP SERVICES AT ST. JOHN'S
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505 Worship Service
Saturday, May 16, 2020
(Online Service will be posted at 5:00 PM)
505 Worship Service is normally held at 5:05 p.m.
(On the 1st and 3rd Saturday)
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Additional Volunteers needed for the:
“AUDIO VISUAL TEAM”
The Board of Information Systems is looking for additional volunteers to assist with the recording and live streaming of our Worship Services at St. John's. We are already doing that now, but the Worship Services have been pre-recorded and are available online the day of the Worship Service.
The next step when the stay-at-home order is lifted is to provide our Worship Service Live at the actual day / time that the Worship Service is occurring. Having our Worship Services available online has been very helpful to many at St. John's, especially our homebound members. PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING THIS TEAM!
Please contact David Lincoln at
[email protected] for information on how to join the “Audio Visual Team”.
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Missed a sermon from a past Worship Service?
Catch up by listening to the audio here:
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PRAYER REQUEST ONLINE
We have added an option on our church web site to submit a prayer request. Your prayer will be shared with members of the congregation that receive our "Weekly Prrayer Chain" e-mail that is sent out by Constant Contact.
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CONNECT
...in Bible Study
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Pastor Ben's Online Bible Study
Since our stay-at-home order has been extended, Pastor Ben will be having an online Bible Study using the online Zoom application! This study will be on the book of Galatians. This letter from St. Paul to the churches in Galatia is a full-throated defense of the Gospel of grace in Jesus Christ, apart from works...both before AND after our salvation in Him. It is a call to freedom in the work of Jesus for us and not to be enslaved by anything the departs from this Gospel. Grace, freedom, righteousness, the Law, the Gospel...all in this letter!
We will be digging into a portion of the text of Galatians each week, gaining truth and insights from Pastor Ben, discussing these with one another and applying God's Word to our lives of faith. A time of prayer will conclude our time together. All you need is your Bible and, if desired, something to take notes. Each session will last about 45 minutes to an hour. Just God's Word and God's people growing in His grace!
Below is the link to this Zoom meeting. Feel free to look at the Zoom website for information on how it works:
https://www.zoom.us/
Contact Pastor Ben at
[email protected]
for more information and/or if you need help with Zoom.
Topic:
Pastor Ben's Galatians Bible Study
Time:
Began on April 30, 2020 at 4:00 PM
- Every week on Thursdays until Jun 11, 2020.
Upcoming Dates
: May 14; May 21; May 28; June 4; June 11 at 4:00 PM.
Join Zoom Meeting:
Meeting ID:
735 0511 6653
Password:
2XmbF1
Call by phone
: (312) 626-6799
Calendar Reminders
: Download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system by clicking “
HERE
”.
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Additional Online Bible Study Opportunities
Since our stay-at-home order has been extended, we have enlarged our online Bible Study using the online Zoom application. Several people have volunteered to host groups, these five groups are noted below. The starting dates for these groups will be next week.
FIRST GROUP
:
Tom Braun (president of the congregation): will host a Zoom meeting on Thursdays at 7:00 pm. The topic will be the book of Daniel. This six week study will focus on the integrity of Daniel’s life and how it relates to us in 2020. Study guide materials will be provided to you by Tom. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Tom Braun at
[email protected]
SECOND GROUP
: Nancy and Gary Mayor: The Mayor’s will host a Zoom meeting on Thursdays at 7:00 pm. The topic is “The Wired Word”, a current event topical study that varies week to week. Each week there are several Bible passages referenced for discussion. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Nancy Mayor at:
[email protected]
THIRD GROUP
: Tom and Vicki Wykert: The Wykert’s will host a Zoom meeting on Mondays at 4:30. The topic will be an Online Being Challenge by Zach Zehnder, an extension of the Red Letter Challenge. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Tom Wykert at:
[email protected]
FOURTH GROUP
:
Pastor Ben: Pastor Ben has already started a Zoom meeting on the Galatians. Additional information is available in this issue of the "Mission". This Bible study meeting will meet on Thursdays at 4:00 pm. All you will need is a Bible! If you are interested or have questions, please contact Pastor Ben at:
[email protected]
Topic:
Pastor Ben's Galatians Bible Study
Time:
Began on April 30, 2020 at 4:00 PM
- Every week on Thursdays until Jun 11, 2020.
- May 14; May 21; May 28; June 4; June 11 at 4:00 PM.
Join Zoom Meeting:
Meeting ID:
735 0511 6653
Password:
2XmbF1
Call by phone
: (312) 626-6799
Calendar Reminders
: Download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system by clicking “
HERE
”.
FIFTH GROUP
: Pastor Mark: Mark and Kristen will host a Zoom meeting on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. The topic will be examining several Bible stories, starting with the resurrection and the Bible stories that follow (Thomas, Jesus appearing to the disciples, etc.). This will be a 6-7 week study guide, materials will be provided to you by Pastor Mark. If you are interested, please contact Pastor Mark at:
[email protected]
SIXTH GROUP
: Rebecca Schiltz: Rebecca will host a Zoom meeting on Saturdays at 9:30 am. This class will be studying the continuation of Zack Sanders Red Letter Challenge called “ Being".
If you are interested, please contact Rebecca Schiltz at:
[email protected]
SEVENTH GROUP:
Mari Smith: Mari will host a Zoom meeting on Tuesdays at 2:30 pm starting May 12th. The topic is: Weaving the Bible into Daily Life - a group for needleworkers (knitters, crocheters, weavers, quilters, sewers, embroiderers and others crafting in the fiber arts...) discussing the fiber arts mentioned in the Bible, the spirituality of creating, and how to share the good news with others (possibly through our art and work). If you are interested or have questions, please contact Mari Smith at:
[email protected]
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SHARE
...with Your Service
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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
It has been some time since we have been together in person to worship our Lord and Savior. Even so, during this time there has been a lot of activity with the church and school.
School:
- In person teaching was canceled in March.
- E-learning began shortly after this.
- Depending on the age of the student, the teachers are meeting in person, via Zoom with their classes 3-5 times per week.
- Music and PE teachers are sending videos of music lessons and physical fitness warm-ups and workouts.
Church:
I know and understand that in these uncertain times giving to the church may not be possible, so I want to thank everyone who has continued with their offerings to the church. Many people have signed up to give electronically through Vanco, our electronic giving portal. If you wish to use the application, log into St. John’s website in the “Church” section and click on “Giving”
Due to the economic impact the coronavirus has caused, our giving has decreased somewhat. In response to this, the Board of Finance, with Council’s approval, took the following actions:
- We have cancelled our daily cleaning service.
- We have decreased the heat in the building.
- We have deferred our monthly mortgage payment.
- We have deferred our monthly medical insurance payments for 60 days. These payments must be paid back over the next 6 months.
- We applied for and received $99,995.00 from the Federal Government under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) as part of the CARES Act. This loan is forgiven if used for salaries and benefits for our church workers.
Look for more information on our virtual Small Groups starting up soon. These will be conducted using Zoom. If you are not familiar with Zoom, you may go to their website (
https://www.zoom.us/). Or you can ask your children and grandchildren who are familiar with the program or use it for their work or education. You may also send me an email, which is listed below.
I hope that you have been viewing our weekly Worship Services either on Facebook:
The Word of God can give you His peace in our current situation. This will be one more question that we will need to ask God when we see him!
I hope everyone is doing OK. If you are not, reach out to either Pastor Ben or Pastor Mark or a friend or family member. And, of course, reach out to Our Lord in prayer! There is nothing He cannot handle; He is with you always; His grace is sufficient for you!
Yours in Christ,
Tom Braun
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COVID Care Meals To Go
Sunday, May 17, 2020 from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
In this time of caution, we are committed to providing a safe environment while cooking these meals and are taking extra precaution and sanitary measures.
Meal Choices this week will be as follows: Beef Tacos, Chicken Parmesan with Pasta, and Sausage Jambalaya.
Pick up in the St. John's Parking Lot next Sunday, May 17, 2020 from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Prayer Partners will be available (using social distancing).
If you are not able to pick up and need to make alternate arrangements or delivery please contact Katie Pece at
[email protected] or
630-247-8516.
There is a sign up genius to sign up for meals on a first come first serve basis. Please forward this message, or pick up a meal for a loved one that may not be able to get out.
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COVID Local Volunteer Opportunity
Sunday, May 17, 2020 from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
We will be collecting items for our St. John's community members in need, local food pantries, and BEDS in the St. John's Parking lot.
Items needed:
Cereal
Pasta/Mac and Cheese/Rice
Spaghetti Sauce
Fruit Cups
Soups
String Cheese
Breakfast/Granola Bars
Goldfish and other crackers
**Please check expiration dates**
Walmart, Jewel, Local Restaurant Gift Cards.
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The 75th annual La Grange Pet Parade is virtual this year!
Theme:
"The Roaring Twenties: Then & Now"
When:
Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 9:30 a.m.
Entry guidelines:
a 10 second video
Click "
HERE
" to get a sneak peek at our St. John's Lutheran Church and School video clip.
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A reminder that if you are unable to get to the grocery store, please email Dave Thomas @
[email protected]
(or, if emailing is not an option, call Dave’s mobile at (312)576-9421. Given our state’s shelter-in-place situation, one of our members will do their very best to shop for you SAFELY if a detailed grocery list is provided. Members who are willing and able to shop for you will wear gloves and masks when shopping and will only purchase packaged goods (e.g., only fruits and vegetables that are wrapped.) Groceries can be delivered to your home and a receipt can be provided so you can reimburse with cash or check upon delivery (we will try to phone you in advance). In your email or phone call to Dave, please provide your email address, mobile and/or home phone number and home address.
Be as specific as possible in your item descriptions
and let us know one store where, ideally, you would like us to shop.
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2020 Amidst The COVID-19 Virus God Opens Door For
Churches Ministry to People in Our Community
Although this is a time of immense uncertainty and fear here and around the world, it is also a very exciting time for the Church. Through the COVID-19 virus, God has opened many doors for the Church to reach out into the community to share His message of love and hope. Recently a local Dignity 4 Girls (D4G) group reached out to Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) to help get the word out to individuals and sewing groups for the need to make masks for medical facilities because of shortages of N95 respirator masks for health care workers caring for COVID-19 patients. D4G has also provided ...
Click "
HERE" to continue reading about this great outreach.
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St. John's
has secured a date for sponsoring
a blood drive to help during this COVID-19 time.
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Details will follow as soon as they become available.
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These are difficult financial times not only for our members but also for all churches across the nation. As many people are working from home these days, please consider making a SJLG
Gift2
donation by giving a portion of your weekly gas savings to SJLG. Or, as you may have curtailed family brunches after Sunday services, please consider these savings as well. Other savings might include dry cleaning, auto maintenance/car washes, haircuts and restaurants/entertainment. These dollars will add up quickly and help the church tremendously. Most importantly, we understand these are tough financial times for everyone, so by all means,
please only consider giving as you may be able
. As our offerings are needed more so than ever, your consideration is greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
The Board of Stewardship
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E-SUNDAY SCHOOL AT ST. JOHN'S
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E-Sunday School at St. John's
MOTHERS ARE A GIFT FROM GOD!
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We're celebrating our mothers in Sunday School this week. We'll read a beautiful Bible story about a mother, Hannah, who wanted to be a mother above all else and prayed to God each day for a child. Also, watch for activities and crafts especially for Mothers Day!
This week's story and activities will be emailed to all Sunday School and Wednesday Bible School families. If you do not receive your package, contact Dalyne Shinneman at
[email protected]
or call 630.772.1688.
NOTE: The next installment of our adventure story,
The Winds of Redvale
, will be delivered as a separate email.
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SAVE THE DATE: JULY 27 – JULY 31
9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL - "TIME LAB - DISCOVERING JESUS"
ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH AND SCHOOL
505 S Park Road (47th and Brainard), La Grange, IL 60525
We invite you to register your children on our
Please feel free to contact Dalyne Shinneman at
630-772-1688, or
about our Vacation Bible School program
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PLANT SALE IS CANCELLED
The Annual School Plant Sale that would have occurred this Friday and Saturday is cancelled. We thank everyone that has supported this event in the past.
If you wish to make a contribution to St. John's School Annual Fund you can do so by clicking on "
THIS" link.
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Click on the TRIP logo above for more information on
how to
donate gift cards to families in need during COVID-19
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Purchase gift cards through our school’s fundraiser for essential goods such as groceries, gas, restaurants, and cleaning supplies, to donate to those in our community.
As COVID-19 widens and families are impacted by hardships related to closed schools, limited access to childcare, work limitations, and more, we have a unique opportunity to help support our community and families.
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Click on the TRIP logo above for more information!
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“Whether you are starting your Spring shopping or shopping for Teachers Appreciation, Mother’s Day or an all-important graduate – start with TRIP cards.
IMPORTANT INFO: Cutoff for 2019-2020 Program Year is
May 18, 2020
.
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St. John's Boon Supply Fundraiser is here through June 15!
Here is your chance to support St. John's by purchasing attractive,
durable and fun bags and items that will give back to St. John's School.
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Saturday Schedule (online)
NEXT SERVICE: May 16
505 Worship Service 5:05 p.m.
(Held on the 1st and 3rd Saturday)
Sunday Schedule (online)
Online Service will be posted
on Sunday at 7:30 AM
(Traditional Worship Service is normally held at 8:00 and 10:45 a.m.)
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Church Office
Office: (708) 354-1690 x210
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