Dear Friends,
There is an old joke told about a pastor trying to rid the church of an infestation of squirrels. After much reflection, the pastor baptized and confirmed the squirrels and they were never seen at the church again. Do you know why this is funny? It is funny because it can be all too true. The intention of confirmation is not to graduate from Sunday School or Worship. The intention of confirmation is for young people in our congregation to confirm the vows made on their behalf at baptism and to accept the rights and responsibilities of full adult membership in our church family. This class of confirmands has not only studied the Christian faith, they have been taught about participating in the life of faith we have here at Southminster. Most of them have made a commitment to serving on committees or ministries of Southminster. They will need your help to stay active. Though they are adult members, they are not yet fully adults. As they serve, please remember that they are new at this. Though they have grown up in church, they may not know how to be the church unless we continue to show and teach them. This is not always easy.
Do you remember when you first learned to drive? I got lost several times because the view from the passenger’s seat is very different than from the driver’s seat. I literally didn’t know where I was going at times, and it was all so new. Perhaps you were a better beginning driver than I was, but our Toyota Corolla had many dinks from my first year at the wheel. My mother would sit and cringe, hugging the passenger side of the door as I drove. It might have been easier if she had done the driving herself, but otherwise how would I have learned?
“Being the Church” is much the same. It may be easier if we just did it ourselves, but how are young people going to learn unless we invite them along on our journey?
We are deeply blessed by the mentors of this confirmation class, who not only committed to walk through the season of confirmation with our youth, they have committed for the long haul. Their relationship with the confirmands will continue on into the future. Confirmation is not just for our young people; it is a witness and an invitation into the full of community at Southminster, to be the Church together. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
P.S. None of us graduate from church until we are at home with God.
2 Timothy 3:14-17:
But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man or woman of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Did you know...?
A Presbyterian, Fred Kearney, invented Cool Whip. Many people make that claim to fame, but while working at General Foods the team of inventors working on the prototype referred to it as “Fred.” Enjoy your summer whipped toppings.
Announcements
Our annual Spring Clean-Up Day is this Saturday, May 30, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Come one, come all, and join us for all or part of the morning. We’ll have a long list of outside and inside projects waiting for volunteers—no matter your age or skill level, there’s always a way you can help. We’ll provide tools (though you’re welcome to bring your own), refreshments, and good cheer —in abundance. And you’ll feel great to be part of the effort to keep our church in top shape.
Preschool through second graders are singing in worship this coming Sunday, May 31, for Pentecost/Confirmation Sunday. Please have your child/children in the sanctuary by 9:00 a.m. on Sunday for one last practice.
This Sunday is also confirmation. The Confirmation Class is asked to meet in the parlor at 9:00 a.m. to set up and go over the ceremony.
The Deacons would like to offer Valet Parking year round. Would you be willing to help? Please sign up at the bulletin board at the entrance of the church. We ask that those of us who are more able bodied please park at the back of the lot, leaving room for those who would be blessed by parking closer. By the way, have you noticed the parking spots at the south end of the lot that are striped as if no parking is allowed? The striping was a mistake; those places may be used.
Homelessness and Hunger don’t take a summer vacation! Southminster will be providing meals for PADS the second Saturday of June, July, and August. Sign-up sheets for June 13-14 meals are located on the shelf under the Mission bulletin board in the narthex. Please sign up for what you would like to provide. Any questions? Contact Chris Kozich, Caroline Linde, or Pat Wiedner.
Offer good only until the end of the month: Multiply your giving power with “Gifts Grow!” During the month of May please prayerfully consider donating to Gifts Grow so that others may know God’s love through your donation. The Mission Committee will match your gifts up to a collective amount of $3000. There is detailed information in the May Dialog (click here to view) and in the bright green bulletin inserts we’ve used on Sunday mornings. Extra envelopes and the green information sheets can be found on the nametag shelf in the main hall and in the narthex. Be sure to see how our gifts are growing by checking the display above the narthex windows.
The Fellowship committee would like to have a “Summertime Progressive Dinner” event, and they are requesting feedback from the congregation to find out if there is enough interest to go ahead with definite plans. If you want fun and good food and have a desire to attend, please let us know by signing the Progressive Dinner Questionnaire in the narthex. Thank you.
Women’s Breakfast meets the first Monday of the month – that’s this coming Monday, June 1 - at 8:00 a.m. at IHOP in Danada East. New friends are always welcome!
From Christian Ed.:
Summer Sunday Fun! Summer Sunday School begins June 14 for preschool through fifth grade. Middle schoolers are welcome to assist teachers by helping with games and activities during Sunday school. Otherwise, they can remain in worship with their parents.
We are still looking for teachers and helpers for summer Sunday school. If you are interested in teaching a lesson or two or helping with games or activities, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net, or see the sign-up sheet on the Christian Ed bulletin board.
VBS registration begins in early June! See our website for details (click here) or call the church office for information. Be sure to tell your friends and family about this year’s exciting program, Crocodile Dock! Don’t wait till the last minute to sign on for this week of fun.
Items Needed: If you come across the following items during spring cleaning, we could use it for our VBS bayou theme: Spanish moss, inflatable alligators (yes, really!), rope lights, green and blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, bug catchers, lanterns, crates, greenery. We are also in need of refrigerator boxes or boxes which are similar in size for games. Please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or at smpcce@ameritech.net with donations.
SKADOOSH Update: Our program year is winding down, so SKADOOSH will be published only as needed during the next few months. Look for special editions for special events.
Pennies 4 PADS: Our children are still trying to collect a mile’s worth of pennies (84,480) to donate to our PADS mission. We’re about three-fourths of the way there! Please keep bringing in your extra pennies; there is a collection box in the narthex.
Our Adult Education class will continue the lectionary-based Bible study this Sunday with the following passages: Isaiah 11:1-9; 1 Corinthians 2:1-13; John 14:21-29. Join us and we’ll learn together. –Blair
Family Camp Fun! Want to make this summer a memorable one with filled with worship, community and fun? The Presbyterian camp at Saugatuck, MI is close to home and offers all this, and more. The Family Week Camp, July 12-17, is filling up quickly, but there are some spots still available. Can’t fit an entire week into the family’s schedule? Check out the Family Camp Kick-off the Week, August 1-4, or the Family Camp Short Week, August 4-7. Call 1-800-728-1164 for more information or visit prescamps.org/retreats and register online.
Please join Lew Garrison, Donna Marton and the Southminster Team for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life for Glen Ellyn, Wheaton and Winfield on June 12, at Glenbard South H.S. Come walk the track to honor those who have had cancer or to show your support for those who have battled and survived. If you are a survivor, come at 5:15 p.m. to register and be served a dinner. The ceremony kicks off at 6:00 p.m. with the survivors doing the first lap. Food, activities, music, and family fun are planned. Sign up sheets, survivor sheets, and forms for the purchase of luminaries are in the narthex. Help us fight back against cancer by joining us on June 12.
Today! Share the gift of life and receive a special Oberweis gift card (worth $11)! Glen Ellyn Community Blood Drive, Wednesday, May 27, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at B.R. Ryall YMCA (1/2 block north of the intersection of Roosevelt Road and Lambert Road – just under the Glen Ellyn water tower). Appointments are appreciated but walk-ins are welcome. You must provide photo I.D. Sign up with Heartland Blood Centers: online at www.heartlandbc.org or contact Karen at 708-342-9773 or kschwarz@heartlandbc.org.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
May 20, 2009
Dear Friends,
May is a sneaky month. While clearly September is busy, with the start of school and getting back into the groove of things, the month of May deceives us. May promises us spring flowers and warm and sunny days when in fact, the month of May is very, very busy. Schools and groups have end-of-the-year programs; concerts, recitals, plays, luncheons, and parties before we go our separate ways for summer. I am sure you can add a few items from your calendar to the list. Do you ever wish or dream to have time to pause, however briefly?
The church has a gift for you, a gift of pausing briefly. Tomorrow, Thursday, May 24, at 7:00 p.m. Southminster is having a Taize worship service celebrating the Ascension of Jesus Christ to Heaven. Time pauses in a Taize worship service and gives the participants a refreshing gift of renewal. Taize worship uses beautiful chants and instrumental music, scripture, and silence to help us come near to God. In a busy world it gives us a time to pause and remember what God has given us in Jesus Christ.
The Christian Church has a calendar as well; we keep time in a different way than the rest of the world. We celebrate the great events of Christ’s life and the Sprit’s work within us. Ascension is the bridge between the joy of the resurrection at Easter and Pentecost, living life in the power of Spirit. On Ascension we remember the gifts and blessings that Christ has poured out on his people. Christ is enthroned. Not only does scripture speak of the ascension, but the creeds and confessions of our Presbyterian tradition do as well. As early as the 300’s the Ascension has been a time to pause and reflect on the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Both the Nicene Creed and Apostles’ Creed state “...He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the father.” In terms of belief, the ascension implies Jesus’ humanity is fully taken into Heaven. Christ, our judge intercedes for us. It reminds me of the passage from Romans 8:
31What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else? 33Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us.
There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Come this Thursday, rest, pause as you worship God, knowing that in Jesus Christ, God has poured upon you Grace upon Grace. When times are busy, when the pace is rushed, it is good to stop, take a breath, and remember that you are in the hands of a loving God. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
Did you know...?
Dr. James Naismith, inventor of basketball, was a Presbyterian. When he applied at the Springfield (Massachusetts) YMCA in May 1889, he was asked, “What is the work of a YMCA Physical Director?” He answered, “To win men for the Master through the gym.”
Announcements
TODAY is the deadline for the June Dialog. It’s a short month, between the Memorial Day holiday and the way the weekends fall, so if items aren’t turned in on time, they may not be published. And don’t forget that we want to list those graduating from high school or college this spring. Please give us the student’s name, school, degree (for college grads), and future plans.
Special Worship Service: Ascension of the Lord—May 21
We will have a worship service tomorrow (Thursday, May 21) at 7:00 p.m. in observance of Ascension Day. The service will include elements of Taizé worship (similar to what we did on Ash Wednesday). We invite you to join us for this special service. (See Wendy’s invitation in her message above.)
S.O.L.A.C.E. is having a breakfast reception with Pastor Wendy as our guest this Friday, May 22, at 10:00 a.m. S.O.L.A.C.E. means Sharing Our Love and Concern Effectively. The group was started in 1996 to support the widowed and to provide a social atmosphere. This reception is not limited to the widowed; we are also reaching out to anyone who needs to experience a friendly relationship with others. Contact Pat Petersen (630-690-1434) if you plan to attend.
This Sunday - the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend - we will remember those among us who have served in the armed forces. We don’t know the name of everyone who has served, and we don’t want to miss anyone. Please let the office know by email or phone no later than Thursday (May 21) if you have served in the armed forces. We are also looking for mementos such as letters, diaries, or even clothing. We would like to display these items on the Lord’s Table as demonstration of our lives as a gift to God.
The liturgical color for the Day of Pentecost – the birthday of the church – is red. We will decorate our sanctuary on Pentecost (Sunday, May 31) with red geraniums. The plants for $11.00 apiece and will look great transplanted to your garden after they’ve been seen here. Please sign up in the narthex by this Sunday, May 24.
Double your giving power with “Gifts Grow!” During the month of May please prayerfully consider donating to Gifts Grow so that others may know God’s love through your donation. The Mission Committee will match your gifts up to a collective amount of $3000. There is detailed information in the May Dialog (click here to view) and in the bright green bulletin inserts we’ve used on Sunday mornings. Extra envelopes and the green information sheets can be found on the nametag shelf in the main hall and in the narthex. Be sure to see how our gifts are growing by checking the display above the narthex windows.
Homelessness and Hunger don’t take a summer vacation! Southminster will be providing meals for PADS the second Saturday of June, July, and August. Sign-up sheets for June 13-14 meals are located on the shelf under the Mission bulletin board in the narthex. Please sign up for what you would like to provide. Any questions? Contact Chris Kozich, Caroline Linde, or Pat Wiedner.
From Christian Ed.:
Music is Worship! Preschool through second graders will have one last “performance” until the next school year. They will sing on May 31, Pentecost/Confirmation. Please have your child/children in the sanctuary by 9:00 a.m. on the 31st for one last practice.
This was an exciting year in Christian Education from Sunday School to various special programs. Please take a moment or two to browse the Christian Ed. bulletin board to see some snapshots taken throughout the year.
We are looking for teachers and helpers for summer Sunday School, which begins June 14. If you are interested in teaching for part of the summer, for just a week or two or helping with snacks or activities, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net.
Our VBS 2009 theme is “Crocodile Dock!” Got stuff tucked away that might fit in with our VBS theme? If you come across the following items, we could use it for VBS: Spanish moss, inflatable alligators (yes, really!), rope lights, green and blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, bug catchers, lanterns, crates, greenery. We are also in need of refrigerator boxes or boxes which are similar in size for games. Please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or at smpcce@ameritech.net with any donations.
Pennies 4 PADS: Our children are attempting to collect a mile’s worth of pennies (84,480) to donate to our PADS mission. We collected 562 last week to bring our total to 61,655 or 73%. Please keep bringing in your extra pennies; there is a collection box in the narthex.
Our Adult Education class will continue the lectionary-based Bible study this Sunday with the following passages: Acts 1:15-17, 21-26; 1 John 5:9-13; John 17:6-19. Join us and we’ll learn together. –Blair
This Sunday, May 24, is Presbyterian Heritage Sunday. Visit the Web site of the Presbyterian Historical Society, www.history.pcusa.org/cong/ heritage.html, for resources to help celebrate your Presbyterian heritage.
Come one, come all! Put this on your calendar: the annual Spring Clean-Up Day on Saturday, May 30, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Come join us for all or part of the morning. We’ll have a long list of outside and inside projects waiting for volunteers—no matter your age or skill level, there’s always a way you can help. We’ll provide tools (though you’re welcome to bring your own), refreshments, and good cheer —in abundance. And you’ll feel great to be part of the effort to keep our church in top shape.
Share the gift of life and receive a special Oberweis gift card! Glen Ellyn Community Blood Drive, Wednesday, May 27, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at B.R. Ryall YMCA (1/2 block north of the intersection of Roosevelt Road and Lambert Road – just under the Glen Ellyn water tower). Appointments are appreciated but walk-ins are welcome. You must provide photo I.D. Sign up with Heartland Blood Centers: online at www.heartlandbc.org or contact Karen at 708-342-9773 or kschwarz@heartlandbc.org.
May is a sneaky month. While clearly September is busy, with the start of school and getting back into the groove of things, the month of May deceives us. May promises us spring flowers and warm and sunny days when in fact, the month of May is very, very busy. Schools and groups have end-of-the-year programs; concerts, recitals, plays, luncheons, and parties before we go our separate ways for summer. I am sure you can add a few items from your calendar to the list. Do you ever wish or dream to have time to pause, however briefly?
The church has a gift for you, a gift of pausing briefly. Tomorrow, Thursday, May 24, at 7:00 p.m. Southminster is having a Taize worship service celebrating the Ascension of Jesus Christ to Heaven. Time pauses in a Taize worship service and gives the participants a refreshing gift of renewal. Taize worship uses beautiful chants and instrumental music, scripture, and silence to help us come near to God. In a busy world it gives us a time to pause and remember what God has given us in Jesus Christ.
The Christian Church has a calendar as well; we keep time in a different way than the rest of the world. We celebrate the great events of Christ’s life and the Sprit’s work within us. Ascension is the bridge between the joy of the resurrection at Easter and Pentecost, living life in the power of Spirit. On Ascension we remember the gifts and blessings that Christ has poured out on his people. Christ is enthroned. Not only does scripture speak of the ascension, but the creeds and confessions of our Presbyterian tradition do as well. As early as the 300’s the Ascension has been a time to pause and reflect on the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Both the Nicene Creed and Apostles’ Creed state “...He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the father.” In terms of belief, the ascension implies Jesus’ humanity is fully taken into Heaven. Christ, our judge intercedes for us. It reminds me of the passage from Romans 8:
31What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else? 33Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us.
There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Come this Thursday, rest, pause as you worship God, knowing that in Jesus Christ, God has poured upon you Grace upon Grace. When times are busy, when the pace is rushed, it is good to stop, take a breath, and remember that you are in the hands of a loving God. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
Did you know...?
Dr. James Naismith, inventor of basketball, was a Presbyterian. When he applied at the Springfield (Massachusetts) YMCA in May 1889, he was asked, “What is the work of a YMCA Physical Director?” He answered, “To win men for the Master through the gym.”
Announcements
TODAY is the deadline for the June Dialog. It’s a short month, between the Memorial Day holiday and the way the weekends fall, so if items aren’t turned in on time, they may not be published. And don’t forget that we want to list those graduating from high school or college this spring. Please give us the student’s name, school, degree (for college grads), and future plans.
Special Worship Service: Ascension of the Lord—May 21
We will have a worship service tomorrow (Thursday, May 21) at 7:00 p.m. in observance of Ascension Day. The service will include elements of Taizé worship (similar to what we did on Ash Wednesday). We invite you to join us for this special service. (See Wendy’s invitation in her message above.)
S.O.L.A.C.E. is having a breakfast reception with Pastor Wendy as our guest this Friday, May 22, at 10:00 a.m. S.O.L.A.C.E. means Sharing Our Love and Concern Effectively. The group was started in 1996 to support the widowed and to provide a social atmosphere. This reception is not limited to the widowed; we are also reaching out to anyone who needs to experience a friendly relationship with others. Contact Pat Petersen (630-690-1434) if you plan to attend.
This Sunday - the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend - we will remember those among us who have served in the armed forces. We don’t know the name of everyone who has served, and we don’t want to miss anyone. Please let the office know by email or phone no later than Thursday (May 21) if you have served in the armed forces. We are also looking for mementos such as letters, diaries, or even clothing. We would like to display these items on the Lord’s Table as demonstration of our lives as a gift to God.
The liturgical color for the Day of Pentecost – the birthday of the church – is red. We will decorate our sanctuary on Pentecost (Sunday, May 31) with red geraniums. The plants for $11.00 apiece and will look great transplanted to your garden after they’ve been seen here. Please sign up in the narthex by this Sunday, May 24.
Double your giving power with “Gifts Grow!” During the month of May please prayerfully consider donating to Gifts Grow so that others may know God’s love through your donation. The Mission Committee will match your gifts up to a collective amount of $3000. There is detailed information in the May Dialog (click here to view) and in the bright green bulletin inserts we’ve used on Sunday mornings. Extra envelopes and the green information sheets can be found on the nametag shelf in the main hall and in the narthex. Be sure to see how our gifts are growing by checking the display above the narthex windows.
Homelessness and Hunger don’t take a summer vacation! Southminster will be providing meals for PADS the second Saturday of June, July, and August. Sign-up sheets for June 13-14 meals are located on the shelf under the Mission bulletin board in the narthex. Please sign up for what you would like to provide. Any questions? Contact Chris Kozich, Caroline Linde, or Pat Wiedner.
From Christian Ed.:
Music is Worship! Preschool through second graders will have one last “performance” until the next school year. They will sing on May 31, Pentecost/Confirmation. Please have your child/children in the sanctuary by 9:00 a.m. on the 31st for one last practice.
This was an exciting year in Christian Education from Sunday School to various special programs. Please take a moment or two to browse the Christian Ed. bulletin board to see some snapshots taken throughout the year.
We are looking for teachers and helpers for summer Sunday School, which begins June 14. If you are interested in teaching for part of the summer, for just a week or two or helping with snacks or activities, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net.
Our VBS 2009 theme is “Crocodile Dock!” Got stuff tucked away that might fit in with our VBS theme? If you come across the following items, we could use it for VBS: Spanish moss, inflatable alligators (yes, really!), rope lights, green and blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, bug catchers, lanterns, crates, greenery. We are also in need of refrigerator boxes or boxes which are similar in size for games. Please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or at smpcce@ameritech.net with any donations.
Pennies 4 PADS: Our children are attempting to collect a mile’s worth of pennies (84,480) to donate to our PADS mission. We collected 562 last week to bring our total to 61,655 or 73%. Please keep bringing in your extra pennies; there is a collection box in the narthex.
Our Adult Education class will continue the lectionary-based Bible study this Sunday with the following passages: Acts 1:15-17, 21-26; 1 John 5:9-13; John 17:6-19. Join us and we’ll learn together. –Blair
This Sunday, May 24, is Presbyterian Heritage Sunday. Visit the Web site of the Presbyterian Historical Society, www.history.pcusa.org/cong/ heritage.html, for resources to help celebrate your Presbyterian heritage.
Come one, come all! Put this on your calendar: the annual Spring Clean-Up Day on Saturday, May 30, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Come join us for all or part of the morning. We’ll have a long list of outside and inside projects waiting for volunteers—no matter your age or skill level, there’s always a way you can help. We’ll provide tools (though you’re welcome to bring your own), refreshments, and good cheer —in abundance. And you’ll feel great to be part of the effort to keep our church in top shape.
Share the gift of life and receive a special Oberweis gift card! Glen Ellyn Community Blood Drive, Wednesday, May 27, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at B.R. Ryall YMCA (1/2 block north of the intersection of Roosevelt Road and Lambert Road – just under the Glen Ellyn water tower). Appointments are appreciated but walk-ins are welcome. You must provide photo I.D. Sign up with Heartland Blood Centers: online at www.heartlandbc.org or contact Karen at 708-342-9773 or kschwarz@heartlandbc.org.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
May 13, 2009
Dear Friends,
One of the reasons that I am proud to be a Presbyterian Christian is that lay people are ordained as well as clergy. The session and the pastor serve equally. Many Christian traditions do not have this understanding of shared leadership. I am glad that we do. We serve the church together; in fact, pastors, elders, and deacons all answer the same constitutional questions with the exception of the last question, which differs according to office.
The last question for an elder is “Will you be a faithful elder, watching over the people, providing for their worship, nurture, and service? Will you share in the government and discipline, serving in governing bodies of the church, and in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ?”
The last question for a deacon is “Will you be a faithful deacon, teaching charity, urging concern, and directing the people’s help to the friendless and those in need and in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ?”
For a pastor, the minister of Word and Sacrament, the last question is “Will you be a faithful minister, proclaiming the good news in Word and Sacrament, teaching faith and caring for people? Will you be active in government and discipline, serving in the governing bodies of the church; and in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ.”
All three questions are unified with the phrase, “in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ?” I believe it is a daily prayer for each of us.
The congregation has a responsibility in the ordination and installation process as well. We are asked whether we will not only accept their leadership, but will “we agree to encourage them, to respect their decisions, and to follow as they guide us, serving Jesus Christ, who alone is the Head of the Church?” In the name of Jesus Christ we all have a part of the ministry of Southminster Presbyterian Church.
This Sunday we will ordain and install new elders and deacons. They have prepared for this service with classes studying scripture, the Book of Confessions. and the Book of Order. They have written statements of faith and been examined by the session. I believe that God has prepared each of them for this service his/her whole life long. I am grateful for those going off the session and the board of deacons. They have served faithfully. I look forward to our new elders and deacons to see what God has in store for them and for us. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
Announcements
It is Rummage Sale/Carwash/Bake Sale weekend: Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday noon-4 p.m. This fundraiser for the Youth Mission Trip has evolved from a mere rummage sale to include a carwash (by donation), hot dogs and home baked goods, and even some plants! Please, pray for good weather and great patronage, bring in your donations, and come and enjoy. Also, we could use some help on Sunday morning getting all the rummage sale things out of fellowship hall in time for Sunday school. Let Blair know if you can help: smpcyouth@ameritech.net or 630-917-6035.
Things needed for the Carwash: old rags or sponges and towels
For the Rummage Sale: grocery bags (plastic or paper) for customers to use
The A.M. Circle’s May meeting will be a luncheon at Cantigny in the LeJardin Restaurant on Friday, May 15. Those wishing to carpool may meet in the church parking lot at 9:30 a.m. At 10:00 a.m. we will meet at the Visitors’ Center to tour the grounds or view the film and enjoy the center and gift shop. Luncheon will be served in LeJardin Restaurant at 11:00. Those planning to attend should sign up by getting their check to Linda Ellinghausen in the amount of $15.25. We will have three entrees to choose from.
Double your giving power with “Gifts Grow!” During the month of May please prayerfully consider donating to Gifts Grow so that others may know God’s love through your donation. The Mission Committee will match your gifts up to a collective amount of $3000. There is detailed information in the May Dialog (click here to view) and in the bright green bulletin inserts we’ve used on Sunday mornings. Extra envelopes and the green information sheets can be found on the nametag shelf in the main hall and in the narthex. Be sure to see how our gifts are growing by checking the display above the narthex windows.
From Christian Ed.:
This was an exciting year in Christian Education from Sunday school to various special programs. Please take a moment or two to browse the Christian Ed bulletin board to see some snapshots taken throughout the year.
We are looking for teachers and helpers for summer Sunday school. If you are interested in teaching for part of the summer, for just a week or two or helping with snacks or activities, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net.
Our VBS 2009 theme is “Crocodile Dock!” Got stuff tucked away that might fit in with our VBS theme? If you come across the following items while sorting through your belongings for the youth rummage sale, we could use it for VBS: Spanish moss, inflatable alligators (yes, really!), rope lights, green and blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, bug catchers, lanterns, crates, greenery. We are also in need of refrigerator boxes or boxes which are similar in size for games. Please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or at smpcce@ameritech.net with any donations.
Pennies 4 PADS: Our children are attempting to collect a mile’s worth of pennies (84,480) to donate to our PADS mission. We collected 380 more pennies this past week. That brings the total to 61,093 pennies or 72.3 % of our goal. The end is in sight! Please keep bringing in your extra pennies; there is a collection box in the narthex.
Our Adult Education class will continue the lectionary-based Bible study this Sunday with the following passages: Acts 10:44-48; 1 John 5:1-6; John 15:9-17. Join us and we’ll learn together. –Blair
CNS Home Health & Hospice Annual Service of Remembrance: It’s that time of the year when we take time to acknowledge those with losses by allowing grief to “go public.” This year, we are holding the service of remembrance on Sunday, May 17, at 2:00 p.m. at Wyndemere Senior Living Campus in its beautiful Anderson Auditorium on Manchester Road, a block east of County Farm Road in Wheaton. We will have a special speaker, singer (of operatic quality!), and music. Of course, we’ll be handing out carnations to the bereaved.
Welcome in any other language is...
This summer we will be upgrading our vestibule/entrance with a sign above the door that says, “Welcome Home.” We plan to have “welcome” written in several languages, as well. Do you have a particular language that you would like represented? If so, please let the office knew by May 18.
Special Worship Service: Ascension of the Lord—May 21
We will have a worship service on Thursday, May 21, at 7:00 p.m. in observance of Ascension Day. The service will include elements of Taizé worship (similar to what we did on Ash Wednesday). We invite you to join us for this special service.
S.O.L.A.C.E. is having a breakfast reception with Pastor Wendy as our guest on Friday, May 22, at 10:00 a.m. S.O.L.A.C.E. means Sharing Our Love and Concern Effectively. The group was started in 1996 to support the widowed and to provide a social atmosphere. This reception is not limited to the widowed; we are also reaching out to anyone who needs to experience a friendly relationship with others. Contact Pat Petersen (630-690-1434) if you plan to attend.
On the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend (May 24) we will remember those among us who have served in the armed forces. We don’t know the name of everyone who has served, and we don’t want to miss anyone. Please let the office know by email or phone if you have served in the armed forces. We are also looking for mementos such as letters, diaries, or even clothing. We would like to display these items on the Lord’s Table as demonstration of our lives as a gift to God.
The liturgical color for the Day of Pentecost – the birthday of the church – is red. We will decorate our sanctuary on Pentecost (Sunday, May 31) with red geraniums. The plants for $11.00 apiece and will look great transplanted to your garden after they’ve been seen here. Please sign up in the narthex by May 24. If you would like to have a geranium for Memorial/Decoration Day, you may order ahead of time.
Come one, come all! Put this on your calendar: the annual Spring Clean-Up Day on Saturday, May 30, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Come join us for all or part of the morning. We’ll have a long list of outside and inside projects waiting for volunteers—no matter your age or skill level, there’s always a way you can help. We’ll provide tools (though you’re welcome to bring your own), refreshments, and good cheer —in abundance. And you’ll feel great to be part of the effort to keep our church in top shape.
Homelessness and Hunger don’t take a summer vacation! Southminster will be providing meals for PADS the second Saturday of June, July, and August. Sign-up sheets for June 13-14 meals are located on the shelf under the Mission bulletin board in the narthex. Please sign up for what you would like to provide. Any questions? Contact Chris Kozich, Caroline Linde, or Pat Wiedner.
Do you have a son or daughter –or are you yourself– graduating from high school or college this spring? Please let us know! The next issue of the Dialog will list all grads about whom we have information. Please give us the student’s name, school, degree (for college grads), and future plans.
The Congregational Care Committee of the Deacons has new supply of Abbey Press Care Notes in a rack in the narthex (on the shelf closest to the sanctuary). These pamphlets are provided free of charge to anyone who needs a word of encouragement or hope. Please take some time to look them over––we hope you’ll find just the one for you.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) publishes an annual planning calendar. It has liturgical-themed art for each month, listings of lectionary readings, directories of PC (USA) offices, and notes about Presbyterian publications, mission materials, curriculum, and much more. (There is a sample copy in the office if you’d like to see one.) We will order these soon for the staff. If you would like one, they are $8.00 each. Please let us know by May 13.
Deacon Care Notes:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the youth in our church and the wonderful service that they shared with us on Sunday. And more thanks for the mothers, grandmothers, aunts and sisters that we were able to honor on Mother’s Day. We are blessed to have them in our lives and to be them.
Thanks to God for the good wishes from Pastor Abel and from Dr. Pedro Ramirez from our sister church in Cuba for the mothers in our congregation on Mothers Day, and we thank God for the mothers in the congregation of our sister church.
We celebrate the birthday of Floyd and Betsy’s daughter, Becky, as she turns 40. 40 wonderful years! We are blessed by the volunteers at the DuPage Convalescent Center and at PADS and look forward to helping in June, July and August. Help us to love one another.
Please be with Cyndy Buening and the medical staff when she has her surgery, and we pray for a good recovery. Wrap your healing touch around these whom we lift up: Ian Van Beveren, who is home sick and has a heart condition; Bob Reynolds; Terri as she continues her fight against cancer; Don who is in the hospital in serious condition; Katie Bell as she recovers from a lung transplant; and Travis as he continues rehab from his head injury. We pray for comfort for the families of Alice Dvorak, Janet Birchall’s aunt, who died last week, and Barbara Abuzzo, who died on Saturday. May they remember all the wonderful memories and smiles that were shared.
Help those looking for work to persevere through this tough time, and give strength to those fighting mystery illnesses. Be with Russ while he continues his struggle with Alzheimer’s. We ask that the blessings continue at the Presbyterian Camps in Saugatuck, and we pray for the states facing financial concerns. Be with all mothers and fathers to show them grace and trust when they are worried about their children’s future, health, finances and emotions. Finally we pray for the healing of our nation and the world. Grace and peace to all, Amen.
The volunteers of the Congregational Care Committee put hearts and hands into the caring for others. If you need assistance from the Congregational Care Committee or Helping Hands, call Deacon Andrea Schmidt (630-629-4526). If you know of anyone else who needs help, or if you’d prefer to talk to Wendy, you may always contact her and she would be happy to notify your Deacon.
One of the reasons that I am proud to be a Presbyterian Christian is that lay people are ordained as well as clergy. The session and the pastor serve equally. Many Christian traditions do not have this understanding of shared leadership. I am glad that we do. We serve the church together; in fact, pastors, elders, and deacons all answer the same constitutional questions with the exception of the last question, which differs according to office.
The last question for an elder is “Will you be a faithful elder, watching over the people, providing for their worship, nurture, and service? Will you share in the government and discipline, serving in governing bodies of the church, and in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ?”
The last question for a deacon is “Will you be a faithful deacon, teaching charity, urging concern, and directing the people’s help to the friendless and those in need and in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ?”
For a pastor, the minister of Word and Sacrament, the last question is “Will you be a faithful minister, proclaiming the good news in Word and Sacrament, teaching faith and caring for people? Will you be active in government and discipline, serving in the governing bodies of the church; and in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ.”
All three questions are unified with the phrase, “in your ministry will you try to show the love and justice of Jesus Christ?” I believe it is a daily prayer for each of us.
The congregation has a responsibility in the ordination and installation process as well. We are asked whether we will not only accept their leadership, but will “we agree to encourage them, to respect their decisions, and to follow as they guide us, serving Jesus Christ, who alone is the Head of the Church?” In the name of Jesus Christ we all have a part of the ministry of Southminster Presbyterian Church.
This Sunday we will ordain and install new elders and deacons. They have prepared for this service with classes studying scripture, the Book of Confessions. and the Book of Order. They have written statements of faith and been examined by the session. I believe that God has prepared each of them for this service his/her whole life long. I am grateful for those going off the session and the board of deacons. They have served faithfully. I look forward to our new elders and deacons to see what God has in store for them and for us. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
Announcements
It is Rummage Sale/Carwash/Bake Sale weekend: Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday noon-4 p.m. This fundraiser for the Youth Mission Trip has evolved from a mere rummage sale to include a carwash (by donation), hot dogs and home baked goods, and even some plants! Please, pray for good weather and great patronage, bring in your donations, and come and enjoy. Also, we could use some help on Sunday morning getting all the rummage sale things out of fellowship hall in time for Sunday school. Let Blair know if you can help: smpcyouth@ameritech.net or 630-917-6035.
Things needed for the Carwash: old rags or sponges and towels
For the Rummage Sale: grocery bags (plastic or paper) for customers to use
The A.M. Circle’s May meeting will be a luncheon at Cantigny in the LeJardin Restaurant on Friday, May 15. Those wishing to carpool may meet in the church parking lot at 9:30 a.m. At 10:00 a.m. we will meet at the Visitors’ Center to tour the grounds or view the film and enjoy the center and gift shop. Luncheon will be served in LeJardin Restaurant at 11:00. Those planning to attend should sign up by getting their check to Linda Ellinghausen in the amount of $15.25. We will have three entrees to choose from.
Double your giving power with “Gifts Grow!” During the month of May please prayerfully consider donating to Gifts Grow so that others may know God’s love through your donation. The Mission Committee will match your gifts up to a collective amount of $3000. There is detailed information in the May Dialog (click here to view) and in the bright green bulletin inserts we’ve used on Sunday mornings. Extra envelopes and the green information sheets can be found on the nametag shelf in the main hall and in the narthex. Be sure to see how our gifts are growing by checking the display above the narthex windows.
From Christian Ed.:
This was an exciting year in Christian Education from Sunday school to various special programs. Please take a moment or two to browse the Christian Ed bulletin board to see some snapshots taken throughout the year.
We are looking for teachers and helpers for summer Sunday school. If you are interested in teaching for part of the summer, for just a week or two or helping with snacks or activities, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net.
Our VBS 2009 theme is “Crocodile Dock!” Got stuff tucked away that might fit in with our VBS theme? If you come across the following items while sorting through your belongings for the youth rummage sale, we could use it for VBS: Spanish moss, inflatable alligators (yes, really!), rope lights, green and blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, bug catchers, lanterns, crates, greenery. We are also in need of refrigerator boxes or boxes which are similar in size for games. Please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or at smpcce@ameritech.net with any donations.
Pennies 4 PADS: Our children are attempting to collect a mile’s worth of pennies (84,480) to donate to our PADS mission. We collected 380 more pennies this past week. That brings the total to 61,093 pennies or 72.3 % of our goal. The end is in sight! Please keep bringing in your extra pennies; there is a collection box in the narthex.
Our Adult Education class will continue the lectionary-based Bible study this Sunday with the following passages: Acts 10:44-48; 1 John 5:1-6; John 15:9-17. Join us and we’ll learn together. –Blair
CNS Home Health & Hospice Annual Service of Remembrance: It’s that time of the year when we take time to acknowledge those with losses by allowing grief to “go public.” This year, we are holding the service of remembrance on Sunday, May 17, at 2:00 p.m. at Wyndemere Senior Living Campus in its beautiful Anderson Auditorium on Manchester Road, a block east of County Farm Road in Wheaton. We will have a special speaker, singer (of operatic quality!), and music. Of course, we’ll be handing out carnations to the bereaved.
Welcome in any other language is...
This summer we will be upgrading our vestibule/entrance with a sign above the door that says, “Welcome Home.” We plan to have “welcome” written in several languages, as well. Do you have a particular language that you would like represented? If so, please let the office knew by May 18.
Special Worship Service: Ascension of the Lord—May 21
We will have a worship service on Thursday, May 21, at 7:00 p.m. in observance of Ascension Day. The service will include elements of Taizé worship (similar to what we did on Ash Wednesday). We invite you to join us for this special service.
S.O.L.A.C.E. is having a breakfast reception with Pastor Wendy as our guest on Friday, May 22, at 10:00 a.m. S.O.L.A.C.E. means Sharing Our Love and Concern Effectively. The group was started in 1996 to support the widowed and to provide a social atmosphere. This reception is not limited to the widowed; we are also reaching out to anyone who needs to experience a friendly relationship with others. Contact Pat Petersen (630-690-1434) if you plan to attend.
On the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend (May 24) we will remember those among us who have served in the armed forces. We don’t know the name of everyone who has served, and we don’t want to miss anyone. Please let the office know by email or phone if you have served in the armed forces. We are also looking for mementos such as letters, diaries, or even clothing. We would like to display these items on the Lord’s Table as demonstration of our lives as a gift to God.
The liturgical color for the Day of Pentecost – the birthday of the church – is red. We will decorate our sanctuary on Pentecost (Sunday, May 31) with red geraniums. The plants for $11.00 apiece and will look great transplanted to your garden after they’ve been seen here. Please sign up in the narthex by May 24. If you would like to have a geranium for Memorial/Decoration Day, you may order ahead of time.
Come one, come all! Put this on your calendar: the annual Spring Clean-Up Day on Saturday, May 30, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Come join us for all or part of the morning. We’ll have a long list of outside and inside projects waiting for volunteers—no matter your age or skill level, there’s always a way you can help. We’ll provide tools (though you’re welcome to bring your own), refreshments, and good cheer —in abundance. And you’ll feel great to be part of the effort to keep our church in top shape.
Homelessness and Hunger don’t take a summer vacation! Southminster will be providing meals for PADS the second Saturday of June, July, and August. Sign-up sheets for June 13-14 meals are located on the shelf under the Mission bulletin board in the narthex. Please sign up for what you would like to provide. Any questions? Contact Chris Kozich, Caroline Linde, or Pat Wiedner.
Do you have a son or daughter –or are you yourself– graduating from high school or college this spring? Please let us know! The next issue of the Dialog will list all grads about whom we have information. Please give us the student’s name, school, degree (for college grads), and future plans.
The Congregational Care Committee of the Deacons has new supply of Abbey Press Care Notes in a rack in the narthex (on the shelf closest to the sanctuary). These pamphlets are provided free of charge to anyone who needs a word of encouragement or hope. Please take some time to look them over––we hope you’ll find just the one for you.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) publishes an annual planning calendar. It has liturgical-themed art for each month, listings of lectionary readings, directories of PC (USA) offices, and notes about Presbyterian publications, mission materials, curriculum, and much more. (There is a sample copy in the office if you’d like to see one.) We will order these soon for the staff. If you would like one, they are $8.00 each. Please let us know by May 13.
Deacon Care Notes:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the youth in our church and the wonderful service that they shared with us on Sunday. And more thanks for the mothers, grandmothers, aunts and sisters that we were able to honor on Mother’s Day. We are blessed to have them in our lives and to be them.
Thanks to God for the good wishes from Pastor Abel and from Dr. Pedro Ramirez from our sister church in Cuba for the mothers in our congregation on Mothers Day, and we thank God for the mothers in the congregation of our sister church.
We celebrate the birthday of Floyd and Betsy’s daughter, Becky, as she turns 40. 40 wonderful years! We are blessed by the volunteers at the DuPage Convalescent Center and at PADS and look forward to helping in June, July and August. Help us to love one another.
Please be with Cyndy Buening and the medical staff when she has her surgery, and we pray for a good recovery. Wrap your healing touch around these whom we lift up: Ian Van Beveren, who is home sick and has a heart condition; Bob Reynolds; Terri as she continues her fight against cancer; Don who is in the hospital in serious condition; Katie Bell as she recovers from a lung transplant; and Travis as he continues rehab from his head injury. We pray for comfort for the families of Alice Dvorak, Janet Birchall’s aunt, who died last week, and Barbara Abuzzo, who died on Saturday. May they remember all the wonderful memories and smiles that were shared.
Help those looking for work to persevere through this tough time, and give strength to those fighting mystery illnesses. Be with Russ while he continues his struggle with Alzheimer’s. We ask that the blessings continue at the Presbyterian Camps in Saugatuck, and we pray for the states facing financial concerns. Be with all mothers and fathers to show them grace and trust when they are worried about their children’s future, health, finances and emotions. Finally we pray for the healing of our nation and the world. Grace and peace to all, Amen.
The volunteers of the Congregational Care Committee put hearts and hands into the caring for others. If you need assistance from the Congregational Care Committee or Helping Hands, call Deacon Andrea Schmidt (630-629-4526). If you know of anyone else who needs help, or if you’d prefer to talk to Wendy, you may always contact her and she would be happy to notify your Deacon.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
May 6, 2009
Southminster E-Notes for May 6, 2009
Dear Friends,
How do we explain our faith in Jesus Christ to children and teach them to be moral? It is a difficult task. On the one hand, we have this word from Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The truth of the gospel is that we are all saved by grace. We don’t earn our way to heaven. On the other hand, many of our educational models are based on reward, and we don’t get anywhere without hard work. We want our children and youth to do “what is right,” but from a perspective of thanksgiving and grace. I do not have a pat answer to this task, but I have some ideas. One is to appreciate the very presence of our children and youth in church, to welcome and acknowledge them. This Sunday the children and youth of our congregation will lead us in worship. How polished that will be remains to be seen, but it will be offered in love to God and to you, their church family. Boys from the confirmation class wrote the prayer of confession. It is heart-felt. Girls picked out the hymns. Together, both the youth and the children will present God’s word in a “play form.” In the baptismal vows we promised to nurture our children in their faith. The youth service is one of the ways we can do this. Many thanks to the choir members who stepped up to help with the service by singing.
Another way to encourage youth to put their faith into action is for them to write their statements of faith. Last weekend the confirmation class wrote their statements together. Each is very personal. Next Wednesday they will share their statements, along with our elders and deacons elect. They have studied the Apostles’ Creeds, the Ten Commandments, the Lord’s Prayer, the great commission, and being the body of Christ, among many other things. Now is the time for them to express their faith publicly.
Teaching is more than speaking. It is sometimes also listening and watching. Thank you for how you teach through your words, your actions, and your kind attention. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
Did you know…?
In the PC(USA) the members of the congregation are considered to be the “God Parents” of the child being baptized?
Announcements
This Sunday, May 10, our children and youth will lead us in worship. Please come and encourage them! And parents, be sure to see the information below (under Christian Ed. and in the calendar) regarding the rehearsals for this service.
Rummage Sale Season is upon us! Please begin bringing in your donations, priced if possible, after worship this Sunday. Contact Blair (cell phone: 630-917-6035) if you are delivering outside of office hours during the week. Also, I need people with trucks or large vehicles to help pick up and deliver large items. Call me if you can help.
Pricing your items before bringing them in will help us a lot, and possibly help us raise more money from the sale. Price stickers are on the bulletin board in the narthex and on the name-tag counter in the main hallway.
And also... Save your old, dirty, worn out, ready-to-throw-away adult and children’s gym shoes and bring them to the Rummage Sale. They will be donated to SCARCE in Glen Ellyn, who will give them to Nike to recycle them into safe playground material. There will be a collection box provided for this purpose at the Rummage Sale.
Double your giving power with “Gifts Grow!” During the month of May please prayerfully consider donating to Gifts Grow so that others may know God’s love through your donation. The Mission Committee will match your gifts up to a collective amount of $3000. There is detailed information in the May Dialog and in the bright green bulletin inserts on Sunday mornings.
From Christian Ed.:
Kids from preschool through high school – please be present and on time for the upcoming Youth Sunday practices. First practice is Saturday, May 9, from 9:30-10:45 a.m. (we are hoping to wrap up by 10:30 a.m.), and then we will meet again at 8:45 a.m. on Sunday, May 10. (Both practices are in the sanctuary.)
In conjunction with Youth Sunday, we will honor our teachers for their year of dedication to our Sunday School classes. Please take a moment or two to look around the narthex on Sunday to see some snapshots taken throughout the year.
Due to recent health concerns, please know that we have been proactive in considering your child/children’s safety. Preschool through grade five will now be using their own personal supply bags, and disinfectants have been provided at the nursery door and in the Sunday school rooms. In addition, please know that the toys in the nursery have been, and will continue to be sprayed and cleaned with disinfectant after each Sunday’s use. If you have questions please call Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net.
We are looking for teachers and helpers for summer Sunday school. If you are interested in teaching for all or part of the summer, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net.
Our VBS 2009 theme is “Crocodile Dock!” Got stuff tucked away that might fit in with that theme? If you come across the following items while sorting through your belongings for the youth rummage sale, we could use it for VBS: Spanish moss, inflatable alligators (yes, really!), rope lights, green and blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, bug catchers, lanterns, crates, greenery. Please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or at smpcce@ameritech.net with any donations.
Pennies 4 PADS: Our children are attempting to collect a mile’s worth of pennies (84,480) to donate to our PADS mission. We collected 1,941 more pennies this past week. That brings the total to 60,713, or 71.9% of our goal. Please keep bringing in your extra pennies; there is a collection box in the narthex.
Our Adult Education class will continue the lectionary-based Bible study this Sunday with the following passages: Acts 8:26-40; 1 John 4:7-21; John 15:1-8. Join us and we’ll learn together. –Blair
Do you have a son or daughter –or are you yourself– graduating from high school or college this spring? Please let us know! The next issue of the Dialog will list all grads about whom we have information. Please give us the student’s name, school, degree (for college grads), and future plans.
The A.M. Circle’s May meeting will be a luncheon at Cantigny in the LeJardin Restaurant on Friday, May 15. Those wishing to carpool may meet in the church parking lot at 9:30 a.m. At 10:00 a.m. we will meet at the Visitors’ Center to tour the grounds or view the film and enjoy the center and gift shop. Luncheon will be served in LeJardin Restaurant at 11:00. Those planning to attend should sign up by getting their check to Linda Ellinghausen in the amount of $15.25. We will have three entrees to choose from.
Welcome in any other language is...
This summer we will be upgrading our vestibule/entrance with a sign above the door that says, “Welcome Home.” We plan to have “welcome” written in several languages, as well. Do you have a particular language that you would like represented? If so, please let the office knew by May 18.
S.O.L.A.C.E. is having a breakfast reception with Pastor Wendy as our guest on Friday, May 22, at 10:00 a.m. S.O.L.A.C.E. means Sharing Our Love and Concern Effectively. The group was started in 1996 to support the widowed and to provide a social atmosphere. This reception is not limited to the widowed; we are also reaching out to anyone who needs to experience a friendly relationship with others. Contact Pat Petersen (630-690-1434) if you plan to attend.
On the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend (May 24) we will remember those among us who have served in the armed forces. We don’t know the name of everyone who has served, and we don’t want to miss anyone. Please let the office know by email or phone if you have served in the armed forces. We are also looking for mementos such as letters, diaries, or even clothing. We would like to display these items on the Lord’s Table as demonstration of our lives as a gift to God.
The liturgical color for the Day of Pentecost – the birthday of the church – is red. We will decorate our sanctuary on Pentecost (Sunday, May 31) with red geraniums. The plants for $11.00 apiece and will look great transplanted to your garden after they’ve been seen here. Please sign up in the narthex by May 24. If you would like to have a geranium for Memorial/Decoration Day, you may order ahead of time.
The Congregational Care committee of the Deacons has new “Care Notes” available. They are on display in the narthex by the mission board. One of the new booklets is titled “Easing the Burden of Stress.” You may want to take a look.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) publishes an annual planning calendar. It has liturgical-themed art for each month, listings of lectionary readings, directories of PC (USA) offices, and notes about Presbyterian publications, mission materials, curriculum, and much more. (There is a sample copy in the office if you’d like to see one.) We will order these soon for the staff. If you would like one, they are $8.00 each. Please let us know by May 13.
Deacon Care Notes:
Heavenly Father, we have so much to be grateful for: the warmer weather, the flowers blooming, a wonderfully caring and giving church family! Thank you for the successful surgery and quick return to church for Doris Bassett. We celebrate Laura Allen’s college graduation, Olivia’s baptism, Bill’s first communion, and the baptism of Liz at our sister church in Cuba. We are joyful at Pastor Abel’s opportunity to visit the Presbytery of Moray, Scotland, in September. We celebrate the ordination this past Sunday of Jessica Henks; may her joy of your word continue to touch many lives. We continue to give thanks for the study of our confirmation class after their retreat and are grateful to the mentors and helpers who ensured a great evening.
We pray for your healing touch to be on John Ivey Jr. who fell on Saturday, bumping his head and breaking his elbow; with Beth Stockhausen as she recovers from surgery; with Terri and Sue as they undergo new chemo treatments; and for Travis who is in rehab following a head injury. Please be with Lee Ann Clark’s parents and continue to bring peace to Russ in his struggle with Alzheimer’s.
All these joys and concerns we bring to you knowing that through you, all things are possible. Amen!
The volunteers of the Congregational Care Committee put hearts and hands into the caring for others. If you need assistance from the Congregational Care Committee or Helping Hands, call Deacon Andrea Schmidt (630-629-4526). If you know of anyone else who needs help, or if you’d prefer to talk to Wendy, you may always contact her and she would be happy to notify your Deacon.
Dear Friends,
How do we explain our faith in Jesus Christ to children and teach them to be moral? It is a difficult task. On the one hand, we have this word from Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The truth of the gospel is that we are all saved by grace. We don’t earn our way to heaven. On the other hand, many of our educational models are based on reward, and we don’t get anywhere without hard work. We want our children and youth to do “what is right,” but from a perspective of thanksgiving and grace. I do not have a pat answer to this task, but I have some ideas. One is to appreciate the very presence of our children and youth in church, to welcome and acknowledge them. This Sunday the children and youth of our congregation will lead us in worship. How polished that will be remains to be seen, but it will be offered in love to God and to you, their church family. Boys from the confirmation class wrote the prayer of confession. It is heart-felt. Girls picked out the hymns. Together, both the youth and the children will present God’s word in a “play form.” In the baptismal vows we promised to nurture our children in their faith. The youth service is one of the ways we can do this. Many thanks to the choir members who stepped up to help with the service by singing.
Another way to encourage youth to put their faith into action is for them to write their statements of faith. Last weekend the confirmation class wrote their statements together. Each is very personal. Next Wednesday they will share their statements, along with our elders and deacons elect. They have studied the Apostles’ Creeds, the Ten Commandments, the Lord’s Prayer, the great commission, and being the body of Christ, among many other things. Now is the time for them to express their faith publicly.
Teaching is more than speaking. It is sometimes also listening and watching. Thank you for how you teach through your words, your actions, and your kind attention. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
Did you know…?
In the PC(USA) the members of the congregation are considered to be the “God Parents” of the child being baptized?
Announcements
This Sunday, May 10, our children and youth will lead us in worship. Please come and encourage them! And parents, be sure to see the information below (under Christian Ed. and in the calendar) regarding the rehearsals for this service.
Rummage Sale Season is upon us! Please begin bringing in your donations, priced if possible, after worship this Sunday. Contact Blair (cell phone: 630-917-6035) if you are delivering outside of office hours during the week. Also, I need people with trucks or large vehicles to help pick up and deliver large items. Call me if you can help.
Pricing your items before bringing them in will help us a lot, and possibly help us raise more money from the sale. Price stickers are on the bulletin board in the narthex and on the name-tag counter in the main hallway.
And also... Save your old, dirty, worn out, ready-to-throw-away adult and children’s gym shoes and bring them to the Rummage Sale. They will be donated to SCARCE in Glen Ellyn, who will give them to Nike to recycle them into safe playground material. There will be a collection box provided for this purpose at the Rummage Sale.
Double your giving power with “Gifts Grow!” During the month of May please prayerfully consider donating to Gifts Grow so that others may know God’s love through your donation. The Mission Committee will match your gifts up to a collective amount of $3000. There is detailed information in the May Dialog and in the bright green bulletin inserts on Sunday mornings.
From Christian Ed.:
Kids from preschool through high school – please be present and on time for the upcoming Youth Sunday practices. First practice is Saturday, May 9, from 9:30-10:45 a.m. (we are hoping to wrap up by 10:30 a.m.), and then we will meet again at 8:45 a.m. on Sunday, May 10. (Both practices are in the sanctuary.)
In conjunction with Youth Sunday, we will honor our teachers for their year of dedication to our Sunday School classes. Please take a moment or two to look around the narthex on Sunday to see some snapshots taken throughout the year.
Due to recent health concerns, please know that we have been proactive in considering your child/children’s safety. Preschool through grade five will now be using their own personal supply bags, and disinfectants have been provided at the nursery door and in the Sunday school rooms. In addition, please know that the toys in the nursery have been, and will continue to be sprayed and cleaned with disinfectant after each Sunday’s use. If you have questions please call Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net.
We are looking for teachers and helpers for summer Sunday school. If you are interested in teaching for all or part of the summer, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net.
Our VBS 2009 theme is “Crocodile Dock!” Got stuff tucked away that might fit in with that theme? If you come across the following items while sorting through your belongings for the youth rummage sale, we could use it for VBS: Spanish moss, inflatable alligators (yes, really!), rope lights, green and blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, bug catchers, lanterns, crates, greenery. Please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or at smpcce@ameritech.net with any donations.
Pennies 4 PADS: Our children are attempting to collect a mile’s worth of pennies (84,480) to donate to our PADS mission. We collected 1,941 more pennies this past week. That brings the total to 60,713, or 71.9% of our goal. Please keep bringing in your extra pennies; there is a collection box in the narthex.
Our Adult Education class will continue the lectionary-based Bible study this Sunday with the following passages: Acts 8:26-40; 1 John 4:7-21; John 15:1-8. Join us and we’ll learn together. –Blair
Do you have a son or daughter –or are you yourself– graduating from high school or college this spring? Please let us know! The next issue of the Dialog will list all grads about whom we have information. Please give us the student’s name, school, degree (for college grads), and future plans.
The A.M. Circle’s May meeting will be a luncheon at Cantigny in the LeJardin Restaurant on Friday, May 15. Those wishing to carpool may meet in the church parking lot at 9:30 a.m. At 10:00 a.m. we will meet at the Visitors’ Center to tour the grounds or view the film and enjoy the center and gift shop. Luncheon will be served in LeJardin Restaurant at 11:00. Those planning to attend should sign up by getting their check to Linda Ellinghausen in the amount of $15.25. We will have three entrees to choose from.
Welcome in any other language is...
This summer we will be upgrading our vestibule/entrance with a sign above the door that says, “Welcome Home.” We plan to have “welcome” written in several languages, as well. Do you have a particular language that you would like represented? If so, please let the office knew by May 18.
S.O.L.A.C.E. is having a breakfast reception with Pastor Wendy as our guest on Friday, May 22, at 10:00 a.m. S.O.L.A.C.E. means Sharing Our Love and Concern Effectively. The group was started in 1996 to support the widowed and to provide a social atmosphere. This reception is not limited to the widowed; we are also reaching out to anyone who needs to experience a friendly relationship with others. Contact Pat Petersen (630-690-1434) if you plan to attend.
On the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend (May 24) we will remember those among us who have served in the armed forces. We don’t know the name of everyone who has served, and we don’t want to miss anyone. Please let the office know by email or phone if you have served in the armed forces. We are also looking for mementos such as letters, diaries, or even clothing. We would like to display these items on the Lord’s Table as demonstration of our lives as a gift to God.
The liturgical color for the Day of Pentecost – the birthday of the church – is red. We will decorate our sanctuary on Pentecost (Sunday, May 31) with red geraniums. The plants for $11.00 apiece and will look great transplanted to your garden after they’ve been seen here. Please sign up in the narthex by May 24. If you would like to have a geranium for Memorial/Decoration Day, you may order ahead of time.
The Congregational Care committee of the Deacons has new “Care Notes” available. They are on display in the narthex by the mission board. One of the new booklets is titled “Easing the Burden of Stress.” You may want to take a look.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) publishes an annual planning calendar. It has liturgical-themed art for each month, listings of lectionary readings, directories of PC (USA) offices, and notes about Presbyterian publications, mission materials, curriculum, and much more. (There is a sample copy in the office if you’d like to see one.) We will order these soon for the staff. If you would like one, they are $8.00 each. Please let us know by May 13.
Deacon Care Notes:
Heavenly Father, we have so much to be grateful for: the warmer weather, the flowers blooming, a wonderfully caring and giving church family! Thank you for the successful surgery and quick return to church for Doris Bassett. We celebrate Laura Allen’s college graduation, Olivia’s baptism, Bill’s first communion, and the baptism of Liz at our sister church in Cuba. We are joyful at Pastor Abel’s opportunity to visit the Presbytery of Moray, Scotland, in September. We celebrate the ordination this past Sunday of Jessica Henks; may her joy of your word continue to touch many lives. We continue to give thanks for the study of our confirmation class after their retreat and are grateful to the mentors and helpers who ensured a great evening.
We pray for your healing touch to be on John Ivey Jr. who fell on Saturday, bumping his head and breaking his elbow; with Beth Stockhausen as she recovers from surgery; with Terri and Sue as they undergo new chemo treatments; and for Travis who is in rehab following a head injury. Please be with Lee Ann Clark’s parents and continue to bring peace to Russ in his struggle with Alzheimer’s.
All these joys and concerns we bring to you knowing that through you, all things are possible. Amen!
The volunteers of the Congregational Care Committee put hearts and hands into the caring for others. If you need assistance from the Congregational Care Committee or Helping Hands, call Deacon Andrea Schmidt (630-629-4526). If you know of anyone else who needs help, or if you’d prefer to talk to Wendy, you may always contact her and she would be happy to notify your Deacon.
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