Dear Friends,
I will be having my last week of “staycation” this week. I will be spending the time getting the kids ready for school, and on Friday I will be flying out to Virginia Beach to officiate at a friend’s wedding. (For pastoral care arrangements while I am gone, see paragraph following Deacon Care Notes.)
Some people get anxious when school starts, even if they have been out of school for years. I suppose after all those years spent getting ready, it’s hard to reset your internal clock. The church is the same way in many ways. During the summer people come and go and vacation, the programming of the church is a bit different, the choir takes a break, and we are blessed with anthems on a more personal level.
But now we are getting back in gear. Christian Education is planning a BBQ for September 13, and we will be in full swing with new plans and a new program year. The Youth Program is planning a new format. Christian Education is planning “Second Helpings.” It will be the third Sunday of each month. In September it will be September 20 and we will finish May 16.
“Second Helpings” is an extra serving of Christian Education for the whole Church family. This event is intended to serve the entire congregation by offering Bible study and fellowship to all ages and, consequently, serve a number of educational purposes:
The first purpose would be a means of supplementing the Sunday school classes for the children with objectives such as learning the books of the Bible, exploring the Reformed faith, and understanding the sacraments.
Second, this monthly event would give parents an opportunity to get involved in a Bible study without having to make arrangements for child care. (In addition to programming for children, childcare would also be made available for infants and toddlers, as is currently offered during adult Bible study.) Even if they can’t attend other Sundays, during “Second Helpings” parents can join the adult class offered in the parlor each week.
Last, we have become aware that it is difficult for families to make practices for special worship services such as the Christmas program and Youth Sunday. Time would be made to practice for these upcoming special worship services.
“Second Helpings” will end with a light lunch, allowing us additional time to share our learning experiences and fellowship. We hope to have you heading home about 12:15.
Please be in prayer and consider joining with us about this exciting opportunity. We are open to suggestions for “Second Helpings” and would appreciate a response on your interest as a family as well as the timing of the event. Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
Announcements:
What is Going on This Fall in Christian Ed?:
Never Stop Climbing! Building our lives on Christ and his Word. (Matthew 7:24-27) This year is going to be a truly exciting one in Christian Education. We will be climbing together to learn and apply the Word of God. There is virtually something for everyone. Here is a line-up beginning this fall:
1. Fall Kick-off for Education! Not just for Sunday School families! Come meet and greet our Adult Ed, Music Ministry, and Sunday School teachers after Fellowship on Sunday, September 13. This is a great opportunity to get to know our dedicated group of teachers on a more informal basis, talk about plans for the upcoming year, and view our Sunday School curriculum. We will have a barbeque with hot dogs and burgers on the grounds outside Fellowship Hall directly afterwards, so bring your appetite. You are also encouraged—children as well as adults—to bring a friend to this event. Please sign up on the Christian Ed. bulletin board so we can make sure we have enough hot dogs and burgers for everyone. (And High Schoolers – there is going to be a class for you this year, led by Pastor Wendy following Sunday worship. Plan to meet her in her office on Sept. 13 after you’ve had some BBQ foods to discuss the plans for the year.)
2. “Second Helpings!” Please join us for “Second Helpings”—our first all-church, fall event, on September 20, from 11:00 a.m. until noon. Adult Bible class and High School classes will meet, as Sunday school-aged children will get a “second helping” of Christian education and nurture. Fellowship continues as everyone shares a light lunch afterwards. Remaining fall dates for “Second Helpings:” October 18 and November 15.
3. Music Ministry! Beginning September 20, preschool through third grade children will begin music lessons with Darlene Crilly directly after the Children’s Moment in Fellowship Hall.
Sunday School Curriculum: We will again be using Cokesbury’s “Rock Solid” curriculum for Sunday School. This is a comprehensive overview of the Bible for preschool through older elementary children, covering the major stories of the Bible over a three-year period. The outline of Bible stories follows the church year, so the children experience stories of Christmas, Holy Week, Easter and Pentecost. For Tweens (Middle School): Rock Solid speaks to them in language they can relate to and outlines the entire Bible in a scope of two 1-year surveys. The second year builds upon the first, providing greater insight and perspective into the Bible’s big picture.
Child Protection Policy Training: We will offer training on Thursday, September 24, 7:00-9:00 p.m. on our Child Protection Policy for Youth and Children ministry staff and volunteers. If you plan to attend, please contact Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net.
Mark your Calendars for these Christian Ed. dates!
August 30 - Bible story by Jim Shiflett (during Sunday School)
September 6 - Last day of summer Sunday School
September 13 - Fall Kick-off. Please encourage your child/children to bring friends.
September 20 - Second Helpings event/start of Adult Lectionary Bible Study class
September 24 – Child Protection Training
Presenting the PYNGUINS! Middle schoolers, this year you get your very own youth group! High school and middle schoolers, stay tuned for information on this fall’s SPY and PYNGUINS programs. Mark your calendars: it all begins Sept. 20. PYNGUINS (middle schoolers) will meet Sundays, 6:00-7:30 p.m., and SPY (high schoolers) will meet from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Both groups will be together from 7:00-7:30 for a time of music and spiritual stuff. Have a great start of the school year, and get set for our kick-off on September 20.
Have you considered becoming a member of Southminster? We will hold a 3-session New Member Class on Sunday mornings, September 13, 20, and 27, from 8:30-9:15 a.m. If you are interested in attending, please talk to Pastor Wendy Boden (office: 630-469-9149) or Elder Ginny Kline (630-668-7374).
“Sing to the Lord a new song!” If you are searching for a new ministry to become involved in at Southminster, and can carry a tune, then the Choir just might be the right place for you. We are saving a chair for you in the sanctuary! Come fill our space with joyful song! The first choir rehearsal will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, at 7:30 p.m. in the choir room followed by food and fellowship. Welcome back to all returning members, and we welcome and are in need of some new talent in each section of the choir. High School age students are also invited to join. For more information, please contact Darlene Crilly, our Music Director.
The Alzheimer’s Project, a documentary produced by HBO, will be presented free of charge at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 22W415 Butterfield Road, Glen Ellyn, on three consecutive Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The remaining schedule is: August 27: “Momentum in Science;” and September 3: “Grandpa, Do You Know Who I Am?” and “Caregivers.” Reserve your space by calling Kathi or John at 630-681-1234 four days prior to each event.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
August 19, 2009
Isaiah 55: 12-13:
“So you’ll go out in joy,
you’ll be led into a whole and complete life.
The mountains and hills will lead the parade,
bursting with song.
All the trees of the forest will join the procession,
exuberant with applause.
No more thistles, but giant sequoias,
no more thorn bushes, but stately pines—
Monuments to me, to God,
living and lasting evidence of God.”
Dear Friends,
“The hills are alive with the sound of music!” Do you remember the splendor of the opening scene for the film “Sound of Music”? I do. I was only seven. I remember the beauty of the sky, the mountains, the meadow, and Julie Andrews’ exquisite voice. She had to sing because of the beauty God’s creation around her. Song is a gift from God. Sometimes, our hearts are so full, just saying the words fails to express what is in our hearts, whether it is joy or sadness.
I am so very grateful to our musicians this summer who have given us the gift of music, whether with voice or with instruments. This Sunday, August 23, we have a special offering to God and a gift to us. The sermon will be in the form of songs sung, not by me, but by “The Messengers.” The Messengers formed as a group in 1983 to sing at an ecumenical Good Friday service. They got together to perform one song, one time. But 25 years, a dozen albums, and countless concerts later, The Messengers continue to inspire with a mixture of styles, mostly gospel music. They are friends of mine and have offered to give us this as a free gift to our congregation.
They have toured Wisconsin and as far as Washington, D.C., where thieves relieved the group of its sound equipment at the outset of a regional tour. Venues have ranged from a Milwaukee Hilton to nursing homes. The Messengers have played for crowds in the hundreds at a July Fourth celebration and at an elementary school. It is their desire to be Messengers of the good news of Jesus Christ. This is an opportunity for you to invite friends who are looking for a church home to come and visit. Session has given approval for them to sell their CD during fellowship.
As the prophet Isaiah wrote, God’s joy sometimes goes beyond the bounds of humanity and causes even creation to burst into song as well. Please join us. Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
Announcements:
The September Dialog deadline is upon us―tomorrow. The September issue is always jam-packed with start-of-the-year information, so please be sure to get your articles and calendar items turned in quickly.
The installation of the new carpet in the main office, Christian Ed. office, choir room, and nursery will take longer than originally planned; the removal of the old carpet begins Thursday around noon and the installation will continue on Friday. If you call the church office during that time, there’s a chance you may not get either a live person or the answering machine. We ask your patience (and maybe a few prayers) while we go through this process.
Hear The Message with The Messengers! This Sunday, August 23, The Messengers, a musical outreach ministry, will bring its special blend of gospel music to our worship service. (See Wendy’s message above.)
Notes from Christian Ed.:
Teachers’ Meeting - Reminder for fall teachers and subs: We have our first meeting on Sunday, August 23 at 8:45 a.m. in Fellowship Hall to discuss the upcoming school year.
Fall Kick-off for Education! Come meet and greet our Adult Ed and Sunday School teachers after Fellowship on Sunday, September 13. This is a great opportunity to get to know our dedicated group of teachers on a more informal basis and talk about plans for the upcoming year. We will have a barbeque outside of Fellowship Hall directly afterwards, so bring your appetite. Please sign-up on the Christian Ed bulletin if you plan to attend!
“Second Helpings:” Please join us for “Second Helpings” on September 20, from 11:00a.m. until noon. Adult Bible class and High School classes will meet, as Sunday school-aged children will get a “second helping” of Christian education and nurture. Fellowship continues as everyone shares a light lunch afterwards. Consecutive dates for “Second Helpings”: October 18 and November 15.
Child Protection Policy Training: We will offer training on Thursday, September 24, 7:00-9:00 p.m. on our Child Protection Policy. This training is for staff and all regular volunteers who work with youth and children’s ministries and special events such as VBS, SNL, mission trips, etc. Please contact Laura Baer if you plan to attend at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net.
Mark your Calendars for these Christian Ed. dates!
August 30 - Bible story by Jim Shiflett (during Sunday School)
September 6 - Last day of summer Sunday School
September 13 - Fall Kick-off. Please encourage your child/children to bring friends.
September 20 - Second Helpings event/start of Adult Lectionary Bible Study class
September 24 – Child Protection Training
Presenting the PYNGUINS! Middle schoolers, this year you get your very own youth group! High school and middle schoolers, stay tuned for information on this fall’s SPY and PYNGUINS programs. Mark your calendars: it all begins Sept. 20. PYNGUINS (middle schoolers) will meet Sundays, 6:00-7:30 p.m., and SPY (high schoolers) will meet from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Both groups will be together from 7:00-7:30 for a time of music and spiritual stuff. Have a great start of the school year, and get set for our kick-off on September 20. -Blair
“Sing to the Lord a new song!” If you are searching for a new ministry to become involved in at Southminster, and can carry a tune, then the Choir just might be the right place for you. We are saving a chair for you in the sanctuary! Come fill our space with joyful song! The first choir rehearsal will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, at 7:30 p.m. in the choir room followed by food and fellowship. Welcome back to all returning members, and we welcome and are in need of some new talent in each section of the choir. High School age students are also invited to join. For more information, please contact Darlene Crilly, our Music Director.
The Alzheimer’s Project, a documentary produced by HBO, will be presented free of charge at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 22W415 Butterfield Road, Glen Ellyn, on three consecutive Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The schedule will be: August 20: “The Memory Loss Tapes;” August 27: “Momentum in Science;” and September 3: “Grandpa, Do You Know Who I Am?” and “Caregivers.” Reserve your space by calling Kathi or John at 630-681-1234 four days prior to each event.
“So you’ll go out in joy,
you’ll be led into a whole and complete life.
The mountains and hills will lead the parade,
bursting with song.
All the trees of the forest will join the procession,
exuberant with applause.
No more thistles, but giant sequoias,
no more thorn bushes, but stately pines—
Monuments to me, to God,
living and lasting evidence of God.”
Dear Friends,
“The hills are alive with the sound of music!” Do you remember the splendor of the opening scene for the film “Sound of Music”? I do. I was only seven. I remember the beauty of the sky, the mountains, the meadow, and Julie Andrews’ exquisite voice. She had to sing because of the beauty God’s creation around her. Song is a gift from God. Sometimes, our hearts are so full, just saying the words fails to express what is in our hearts, whether it is joy or sadness.
I am so very grateful to our musicians this summer who have given us the gift of music, whether with voice or with instruments. This Sunday, August 23, we have a special offering to God and a gift to us. The sermon will be in the form of songs sung, not by me, but by “The Messengers.” The Messengers formed as a group in 1983 to sing at an ecumenical Good Friday service. They got together to perform one song, one time. But 25 years, a dozen albums, and countless concerts later, The Messengers continue to inspire with a mixture of styles, mostly gospel music. They are friends of mine and have offered to give us this as a free gift to our congregation.
They have toured Wisconsin and as far as Washington, D.C., where thieves relieved the group of its sound equipment at the outset of a regional tour. Venues have ranged from a Milwaukee Hilton to nursing homes. The Messengers have played for crowds in the hundreds at a July Fourth celebration and at an elementary school. It is their desire to be Messengers of the good news of Jesus Christ. This is an opportunity for you to invite friends who are looking for a church home to come and visit. Session has given approval for them to sell their CD during fellowship.
As the prophet Isaiah wrote, God’s joy sometimes goes beyond the bounds of humanity and causes even creation to burst into song as well. Please join us. Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
Announcements:
The September Dialog deadline is upon us―tomorrow. The September issue is always jam-packed with start-of-the-year information, so please be sure to get your articles and calendar items turned in quickly.
The installation of the new carpet in the main office, Christian Ed. office, choir room, and nursery will take longer than originally planned; the removal of the old carpet begins Thursday around noon and the installation will continue on Friday. If you call the church office during that time, there’s a chance you may not get either a live person or the answering machine. We ask your patience (and maybe a few prayers) while we go through this process.
Hear The Message with The Messengers! This Sunday, August 23, The Messengers, a musical outreach ministry, will bring its special blend of gospel music to our worship service. (See Wendy’s message above.)
Notes from Christian Ed.:
Teachers’ Meeting - Reminder for fall teachers and subs: We have our first meeting on Sunday, August 23 at 8:45 a.m. in Fellowship Hall to discuss the upcoming school year.
Fall Kick-off for Education! Come meet and greet our Adult Ed and Sunday School teachers after Fellowship on Sunday, September 13. This is a great opportunity to get to know our dedicated group of teachers on a more informal basis and talk about plans for the upcoming year. We will have a barbeque outside of Fellowship Hall directly afterwards, so bring your appetite. Please sign-up on the Christian Ed bulletin if you plan to attend!
“Second Helpings:” Please join us for “Second Helpings” on September 20, from 11:00a.m. until noon. Adult Bible class and High School classes will meet, as Sunday school-aged children will get a “second helping” of Christian education and nurture. Fellowship continues as everyone shares a light lunch afterwards. Consecutive dates for “Second Helpings”: October 18 and November 15.
Child Protection Policy Training: We will offer training on Thursday, September 24, 7:00-9:00 p.m. on our Child Protection Policy. This training is for staff and all regular volunteers who work with youth and children’s ministries and special events such as VBS, SNL, mission trips, etc. Please contact Laura Baer if you plan to attend at 630-469-9149 or email at smpcce@ameritech.net.
Mark your Calendars for these Christian Ed. dates!
August 30 - Bible story by Jim Shiflett (during Sunday School)
September 6 - Last day of summer Sunday School
September 13 - Fall Kick-off. Please encourage your child/children to bring friends.
September 20 - Second Helpings event/start of Adult Lectionary Bible Study class
September 24 – Child Protection Training
Presenting the PYNGUINS! Middle schoolers, this year you get your very own youth group! High school and middle schoolers, stay tuned for information on this fall’s SPY and PYNGUINS programs. Mark your calendars: it all begins Sept. 20. PYNGUINS (middle schoolers) will meet Sundays, 6:00-7:30 p.m., and SPY (high schoolers) will meet from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Both groups will be together from 7:00-7:30 for a time of music and spiritual stuff. Have a great start of the school year, and get set for our kick-off on September 20. -Blair
“Sing to the Lord a new song!” If you are searching for a new ministry to become involved in at Southminster, and can carry a tune, then the Choir just might be the right place for you. We are saving a chair for you in the sanctuary! Come fill our space with joyful song! The first choir rehearsal will take place on Thursday evening, September 10, at 7:30 p.m. in the choir room followed by food and fellowship. Welcome back to all returning members, and we welcome and are in need of some new talent in each section of the choir. High School age students are also invited to join. For more information, please contact Darlene Crilly, our Music Director.
The Alzheimer’s Project, a documentary produced by HBO, will be presented free of charge at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 22W415 Butterfield Road, Glen Ellyn, on three consecutive Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The schedule will be: August 20: “The Memory Loss Tapes;” August 27: “Momentum in Science;” and September 3: “Grandpa, Do You Know Who I Am?” and “Caregivers.” Reserve your space by calling Kathi or John at 630-681-1234 four days prior to each event.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
August 12, 2009
“Therefore my people will know my name;
therefore in that day they will know
that it is I who foretold it.
Yes, it is I.”
How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
“Your God reigns!”
-Isaiah 52:6-8
Dear Friends,
Have you ever noticed that bad news seems to spread faster than good? It shouldn’t be that way! On Saturday, Louanne Jourdan shared some heartfelt good news with me. She told me that while shopping at the grocery store the cashier commented on her purchase, “Are you having a party?” Louanne’s answer was, “No, I am making cookies for PADS.” The woman’s face broke into a smile. “Oh, PADS. I love PADS. Last March my daughter and I had no food and they fed us.” A real person. An unexpected moment. A new learning. PADS* makes a difference. We made a difference this summer. A great big thank you to those of you who donated your time, your money, and your hearts to helping Southminster Presbyterian Church reach out in Christian love to people who need our support and love.
This Sunday, August 16, is Barefoot Sunday.
We have an opportunity THIS Sunday to do something more. Soles4Souls is this Sunday. Please bring your gently-worn shoes, sandals, flip flops, or even boots to worship this Sunday. If you like you can give the shoes off your feet! The shoes―the soles―collected will be sent to people in need.
Soles4Souls has a simple concept. They get shoes and give them away.
In the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami that hit Southeast Asia, Wayne Elsey, the Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls™ Inc., felt compelled to do something. Like many of us, he did not know what to do.
He was at home one night, watching TV and he saw a picture of a single shoe washing up on the beach. That triggered a few calls to some other executives in the footwear industry and the subsequent donation of a quarter of a million shoes to victims in the devastated countries.
A year later when Katrina hit, Wayne called the same group of friends, and they sent over a million pairs of shoes down to the gulf coast communities affected by the hurricane. In all honesty, he admits that he did not expect such an immediate and successful turnout. This left him wondering, why not start a non-profit and do this all the time? One year later, Soles4Souls was formally created.
It has been that simple: Changing the world one pair at a time.
Elsey recently left an executive position at a large footwear company to join the charity he founded. “I’m happy to be able to help people with such a simple mission,” Elsey said. “The growth of this organization has been rapid, and I am excited to get involved on a daily basis so that I can devote more time to a cause that makes a difference in people’s lives.”
Soles4Souls receives large donations from footwear companies, retailers, churches, nonprofit ministries, civic groups, schools, and individuals and saw that this could become a full time organization. That’s why Soles4Souls was created – to facilitate the donations from these groups to the people who desperately need footwear.
So Friends, blessed are the feet of those who bring good news! Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
* PADS = Public Action to Deliver Shelter
Announcements:
Bring a hearty appetite with you to the Progressive Dinner this Saturday, August 15! We have all the plans in place, and those who signed up to attend have been notified by e-mail as to their assignments. (If you haven’t researched all the directions, don’t worry; directions will also be available that evening.) The first stop –appetizers– will be Jerry and Marge Engdahl’s home (1425 Oxford, Wheaton) at 5:00 p.m. For directions call the Engdahls (630-653-7479) or the Pats (Wiedner 630-858-0761) (Petersen-630-690-1434). Yum! Yum! Yum!
This Sunday, August 16, we’ll leave our soles at church... with the mission project known as “Soles4Souls.” (See Wendy’s letter above for more information.) Plan to leave your shoes here after worship as a donation or bring an extra “gently used” pair to donate. Some of us will walk out barefoot to remind us of the many people in the world who have no shoes. Please put each pair of shoes in a plastic bag or tie the laces together to make it easier to sort them.
Notes from Christian Ed.:
VBS Mission Project: Thank you for your school supply donations for our VBS mission project. They have been delivered (thank you to Jessica Parks and Megan Bohi), and we were told by the PRC how much in need they were of these items for the fall.
“Second Helpings” - By now you have probably heard about an exciting idea to augment Christian education, called “Second Helpings.” It will meet the 3rd Sunday of the month (September-November to start) at 11:00 a.m. and will include an extra time of learning and connecting... plus lunch. Look for more information coming for this all-church event!
Mark your Calendars!
August 30 - Bible story by Jim Shiflett (during Sunday School)
September 6 - Last day of summer Sunday School
September 13 - Fall Kick-off. Please encourage your child/children to bring friends. We’re planning a special event at 11:00 (pending Session approval) for everyone who is involved in any aspect of Christian Education. Stay tuned!
September 20 - Second Helpings event at 11:00, following the Mission Fair. More details to follow.
September 24 – Child Protection Training for all teachers and staff who work with children and youth
Hear The Message with The Messengers! On Sunday, August 23, The Messengers, a musical outreach ministry, will bring its special blend of gospel music to our worship service. The group, which includes a doctor of internal medicine, a piano technician, an accountant, a music teacher, and a drug store owner, has been together for 25 years. They first came together to sing one song at a Good Friday service in 1983; their ongoing ministry now averages 20-25 appearances each year in congregations of many faiths.
We have only 8 tickets left for our annual outing to the Kane County Cougars, so get your name on the sign-up sheet in the narthex. Don’t miss the good food, good fun... and Jake the Frisbee Catching Dog! All this can be found for only $5 per ticket on Monday, August 24, at 6:30 p.m. Questions? Call Caroline Linde (630-469-9482).
therefore in that day they will know
that it is I who foretold it.
Yes, it is I.”
How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
“Your God reigns!”
-Isaiah 52:6-8
Dear Friends,
Have you ever noticed that bad news seems to spread faster than good? It shouldn’t be that way! On Saturday, Louanne Jourdan shared some heartfelt good news with me. She told me that while shopping at the grocery store the cashier commented on her purchase, “Are you having a party?” Louanne’s answer was, “No, I am making cookies for PADS.” The woman’s face broke into a smile. “Oh, PADS. I love PADS. Last March my daughter and I had no food and they fed us.” A real person. An unexpected moment. A new learning. PADS* makes a difference. We made a difference this summer. A great big thank you to those of you who donated your time, your money, and your hearts to helping Southminster Presbyterian Church reach out in Christian love to people who need our support and love.
This Sunday, August 16, is Barefoot Sunday.
We have an opportunity THIS Sunday to do something more. Soles4Souls is this Sunday. Please bring your gently-worn shoes, sandals, flip flops, or even boots to worship this Sunday. If you like you can give the shoes off your feet! The shoes―the soles―collected will be sent to people in need.
Soles4Souls has a simple concept. They get shoes and give them away.
In the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami that hit Southeast Asia, Wayne Elsey, the Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls™ Inc., felt compelled to do something. Like many of us, he did not know what to do.
He was at home one night, watching TV and he saw a picture of a single shoe washing up on the beach. That triggered a few calls to some other executives in the footwear industry and the subsequent donation of a quarter of a million shoes to victims in the devastated countries.
A year later when Katrina hit, Wayne called the same group of friends, and they sent over a million pairs of shoes down to the gulf coast communities affected by the hurricane. In all honesty, he admits that he did not expect such an immediate and successful turnout. This left him wondering, why not start a non-profit and do this all the time? One year later, Soles4Souls was formally created.
It has been that simple: Changing the world one pair at a time.
Elsey recently left an executive position at a large footwear company to join the charity he founded. “I’m happy to be able to help people with such a simple mission,” Elsey said. “The growth of this organization has been rapid, and I am excited to get involved on a daily basis so that I can devote more time to a cause that makes a difference in people’s lives.”
Soles4Souls receives large donations from footwear companies, retailers, churches, nonprofit ministries, civic groups, schools, and individuals and saw that this could become a full time organization. That’s why Soles4Souls was created – to facilitate the donations from these groups to the people who desperately need footwear.
So Friends, blessed are the feet of those who bring good news! Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
* PADS = Public Action to Deliver Shelter
Announcements:
Bring a hearty appetite with you to the Progressive Dinner this Saturday, August 15! We have all the plans in place, and those who signed up to attend have been notified by e-mail as to their assignments. (If you haven’t researched all the directions, don’t worry; directions will also be available that evening.) The first stop –appetizers– will be Jerry and Marge Engdahl’s home (1425 Oxford, Wheaton) at 5:00 p.m. For directions call the Engdahls (630-653-7479) or the Pats (Wiedner 630-858-0761) (Petersen-630-690-1434). Yum! Yum! Yum!
This Sunday, August 16, we’ll leave our soles at church... with the mission project known as “Soles4Souls.” (See Wendy’s letter above for more information.) Plan to leave your shoes here after worship as a donation or bring an extra “gently used” pair to donate. Some of us will walk out barefoot to remind us of the many people in the world who have no shoes. Please put each pair of shoes in a plastic bag or tie the laces together to make it easier to sort them.
Notes from Christian Ed.:
VBS Mission Project: Thank you for your school supply donations for our VBS mission project. They have been delivered (thank you to Jessica Parks and Megan Bohi), and we were told by the PRC how much in need they were of these items for the fall.
“Second Helpings” - By now you have probably heard about an exciting idea to augment Christian education, called “Second Helpings.” It will meet the 3rd Sunday of the month (September-November to start) at 11:00 a.m. and will include an extra time of learning and connecting... plus lunch. Look for more information coming for this all-church event!
Mark your Calendars!
August 30 - Bible story by Jim Shiflett (during Sunday School)
September 6 - Last day of summer Sunday School
September 13 - Fall Kick-off. Please encourage your child/children to bring friends. We’re planning a special event at 11:00 (pending Session approval) for everyone who is involved in any aspect of Christian Education. Stay tuned!
September 20 - Second Helpings event at 11:00, following the Mission Fair. More details to follow.
September 24 – Child Protection Training for all teachers and staff who work with children and youth
Hear The Message with The Messengers! On Sunday, August 23, The Messengers, a musical outreach ministry, will bring its special blend of gospel music to our worship service. The group, which includes a doctor of internal medicine, a piano technician, an accountant, a music teacher, and a drug store owner, has been together for 25 years. They first came together to sing one song at a Good Friday service in 1983; their ongoing ministry now averages 20-25 appearances each year in congregations of many faiths.
We have only 8 tickets left for our annual outing to the Kane County Cougars, so get your name on the sign-up sheet in the narthex. Don’t miss the good food, good fun... and Jake the Frisbee Catching Dog! All this can be found for only $5 per ticket on Monday, August 24, at 6:30 p.m. Questions? Call Caroline Linde (630-469-9482).
Friday, August 7, 2009
August 5, 2009
Dear Friends,
While I was on vacation I missed seeing you. It was wonderful to be back this past Sunday and to see you again.
Scripture speaks of entertaining angels without knowing it. Friends, we have been “visited” by an angel. As you recall from Sunday, Bill Shepherd had a story to share that he wanted to share first with the Mission Ministry. Here is his story:
At the beginning of summer our community was hit by a storm which devastated not only many of our own yards but also the church grounds. I am sure you remember it well. That Sunday, many people helped to clean up our grounds, but the huge tree by our sign was down and would have to be removed by professionals. It was a big job! Many tree company people came by the office and offered to remove the tree for a fee. Bill received the estimates, which ranged from $450 to $1,000. One day a man offered to remove it from our property... for free. Bill was very surprised, but grateful. Little by little the man worked faithfully as he cleared the tree. He took the wood to a trailer park in Yorkville, where they burn fires to keep the bugs away. It turns out that the man lives in Minnesota but was visiting his sister, who lives in Raintree. He didn’t want to be paid, nor have a fuss made over him. He just wanted to help.
We are very blessed by this angel who wants to remain nameless. Please take a moment to thank God for this man and people like him who give freely from the heart. Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
Announcements:
Our church will be serving meals for PADS this Saturday. Many thanks to all the volunteers who make this outreach ministry possible.
VBS – Summer 2009! A rockin’ THANK YOU to everyone who helped by praying, donating, volunteering, decorating, and in many other ways –You helped to make this VBS a huge success.
VBS Extras!
If you would like a music CD from the Crocodile Dock VBS, we will have them available this Sunday, August 9 before and after worship in the narthex. Cost is only $10 per CD.|
Also, please take home a “Jesus Rocks” t-shirt from VBS as well (also in the Narthex). We have plenty left over and they are free. The logo was designed by Peter Davidson so, let’s wear them proudly!
If you will not be here on Sunday and would like the music CD and t-shirt, please call or email Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net and I will put one aside for you.
Hey, SPY! SNL is back! We’ll meet again this Sunday (August 9). Then comes the GREAT AMERICA day followed by a LOCK-IN, on August 14th!! Stay tuned for details on that.
And adults, SPY needs your help. We need drivers and sponsors for the trip to Great America on Friday, August 14. And we need sponsors for a lock-in to be held at the church that night. Please contact Blair if you can help.
S.O.L.A.C.E. Singles – Wednesday, August 12,– Cabin #28 Outing
There will be a short meeting after church this Sunday in the parlor for all those who can attend, to review schedules, activities, and food. By that time, the long-range weather forecast will tell us what probably won’t happen and we can review carpooling and directions, etc. See you, and anybody who still wants to sign up, there on Sunday. Call Jack Thorne (630-469-8474) or Donna Marton (630-790-3514) if you have questions.
Our Southminster “Italiano” Progressive Dinner will begin promptly at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15. Participants will be notified very soon about their “assignments” for this event. Details are being worked out as these notes are being written, so stay tuned.
Hear The Message with The Messengers! On Sunday, August 23, The Messengers, a musical outreach ministry, will bring its special blend of gospel music to our worship service. The group, which includes a doctor of internal medicine, a piano technician, an accountant, a music teacher, and a drug store owner, has been together for 25 years. They first came together to sing one song at a Good Friday service in 1983; their ongoing ministry now averages 20-25 appearances each year in congregations of many faiths.
And more from Christian Ed.:
“Second Helpings” - By now you have probably heard about an exciting idea to augment Christian education, called “Second Helpings.” Look for more information coming in August for this all-church event!
A new school year means we need new teachers! There is still room for additional teachers in each of the grades, as well as substitutes. We have a pre-printed curriculum, which makes planning a whole lot easier. The more teachers we recruit the more scheduling flexibility there will be. Would you please prayerfully consider serving our children in this important ministry?
Take Me Out to the Ball Game! We have only 8 tickets left for our annual outing to the Kane County Cougars, so get your name on the sign-up sheet in the narthex. Don’t miss the good food, good fun... and Jake the Frisbee Catching Dog! All this can be found for only $5 per ticket on Monday, August 24, at 6:30 p.m. Questions? Call Caroline Linde (630-469-9482).
While I was on vacation I missed seeing you. It was wonderful to be back this past Sunday and to see you again.
Scripture speaks of entertaining angels without knowing it. Friends, we have been “visited” by an angel. As you recall from Sunday, Bill Shepherd had a story to share that he wanted to share first with the Mission Ministry. Here is his story:
At the beginning of summer our community was hit by a storm which devastated not only many of our own yards but also the church grounds. I am sure you remember it well. That Sunday, many people helped to clean up our grounds, but the huge tree by our sign was down and would have to be removed by professionals. It was a big job! Many tree company people came by the office and offered to remove the tree for a fee. Bill received the estimates, which ranged from $450 to $1,000. One day a man offered to remove it from our property... for free. Bill was very surprised, but grateful. Little by little the man worked faithfully as he cleared the tree. He took the wood to a trailer park in Yorkville, where they burn fires to keep the bugs away. It turns out that the man lives in Minnesota but was visiting his sister, who lives in Raintree. He didn’t want to be paid, nor have a fuss made over him. He just wanted to help.
We are very blessed by this angel who wants to remain nameless. Please take a moment to thank God for this man and people like him who give freely from the heart. Take it from here.
Love, Wendy
Announcements:
Our church will be serving meals for PADS this Saturday. Many thanks to all the volunteers who make this outreach ministry possible.
VBS – Summer 2009! A rockin’ THANK YOU to everyone who helped by praying, donating, volunteering, decorating, and in many other ways –You helped to make this VBS a huge success.
VBS Extras!
If you would like a music CD from the Crocodile Dock VBS, we will have them available this Sunday, August 9 before and after worship in the narthex. Cost is only $10 per CD.|
Also, please take home a “Jesus Rocks” t-shirt from VBS as well (also in the Narthex). We have plenty left over and they are free. The logo was designed by Peter Davidson so, let’s wear them proudly!
If you will not be here on Sunday and would like the music CD and t-shirt, please call or email Laura Baer at 630-469-9149 or smpcce@ameritech.net and I will put one aside for you.
Hey, SPY! SNL is back! We’ll meet again this Sunday (August 9). Then comes the GREAT AMERICA day followed by a LOCK-IN, on August 14th!! Stay tuned for details on that.
And adults, SPY needs your help. We need drivers and sponsors for the trip to Great America on Friday, August 14. And we need sponsors for a lock-in to be held at the church that night. Please contact Blair if you can help.
S.O.L.A.C.E. Singles – Wednesday, August 12,– Cabin #28 Outing
There will be a short meeting after church this Sunday in the parlor for all those who can attend, to review schedules, activities, and food. By that time, the long-range weather forecast will tell us what probably won’t happen and we can review carpooling and directions, etc. See you, and anybody who still wants to sign up, there on Sunday. Call Jack Thorne (630-469-8474) or Donna Marton (630-790-3514) if you have questions.
Our Southminster “Italiano” Progressive Dinner will begin promptly at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15. Participants will be notified very soon about their “assignments” for this event. Details are being worked out as these notes are being written, so stay tuned.
Hear The Message with The Messengers! On Sunday, August 23, The Messengers, a musical outreach ministry, will bring its special blend of gospel music to our worship service. The group, which includes a doctor of internal medicine, a piano technician, an accountant, a music teacher, and a drug store owner, has been together for 25 years. They first came together to sing one song at a Good Friday service in 1983; their ongoing ministry now averages 20-25 appearances each year in congregations of many faiths.
And more from Christian Ed.:
“Second Helpings” - By now you have probably heard about an exciting idea to augment Christian education, called “Second Helpings.” Look for more information coming in August for this all-church event!
A new school year means we need new teachers! There is still room for additional teachers in each of the grades, as well as substitutes. We have a pre-printed curriculum, which makes planning a whole lot easier. The more teachers we recruit the more scheduling flexibility there will be. Would you please prayerfully consider serving our children in this important ministry?
Take Me Out to the Ball Game! We have only 8 tickets left for our annual outing to the Kane County Cougars, so get your name on the sign-up sheet in the narthex. Don’t miss the good food, good fun... and Jake the Frisbee Catching Dog! All this can be found for only $5 per ticket on Monday, August 24, at 6:30 p.m. Questions? Call Caroline Linde (630-469-9482).
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