Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:16-18
“So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”
Dear Friends,
Does February drag for you? It does for me. It seems that everyone is either fighting a cold or hasn’t had enough sleep. The sky is gray and people’s minds tend to fog. But there is hope. Easter will come! The promise of the resurrection will be fulfilled. That promises us that in Jesus Christ we are made new.
Sunday morning, I was sitting up in bed praying before I got dressed for church, and I actually heard a bird sing! A bird was singing and there was still snow on the ground! It made me smile to think that on the first Sunday of Lent I heard a promise of Easter. We can claim the promise of Easter. In Jesus Christ we are made new.
We rejoice with Donna Marton on a new granddaughter, and we rejoice with the Rodgers family in the birth of their new grandson, Zane. Blair and I are now a great uncle and aunt. These three babies were born in different countries: USA, South Africa, and Canada! It’s been said that a child is God’s promise that the world will continue. It looks like God has some good plans coming along despite our fears for the future and February. There are some new people in the world.
So, as we fight the fog of February, try to throw off that sniffle, or battle cabin fever know the truth of the song, “In the Bulb There Is a Flower:” “In the cold and snow of winter there’s a spring that waits to be.” I like to think of it as a song of Lent that promises hope. If you are feeling gray, or foggy, or just groggy from lack of sleep, remember that in Jesus Christ life is made new. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
PRESBYTERIAN READERS are meeting tonight (Wednesday, Feb. 24), a week later than usual due to the Ash Wednesday service last week. Join us from 7:30-8:30 p.m. in the parlor. Everyone is welcome, and you may invite friends from outside of church. Our book for February is “Life of Pi,” a fantasy adventure novel written by Canadian author Yann Martel. The story was inspired by Martel’s childhood friend Eleanor and her adventures in India.
JUBILEE CELEBRATION 2011 - Sign up by February 28 to help with the planning!
Southminster will be 50 years old on March 5, 2011. Plans are underway for a year of celebration beginning on New Year’s Day 2011.
The 50th Anniversary Planning Team needs your input and help - whether you have been a member or friend of Southminster for 50 years or 50 days. There are opportunities for long-term assistance on the Planning Team itself, or short-term commitment to plan one of the monthly anniversary activities or help with a single event. WE COULD USE A FEW GOOD MEN!!
If you are interested in joining the 50th Anniversary Planning Team or if you would like to assist with a particular celebration event, please contact Sue Clary (630-790-1109, or sueclary@sbcglobal.net ) or Pat Wiedner (630-858-0761, or pjwiedner@hotmail.com ) by Sunday, February 28, 2010.
WOMEN’S BREAKFAST: Always the first Monday of the month, the next one comes up next Monday, March 1. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at IHOP in Danada.
Each Wednesday in March (excluding Holy Week) you are invited to share in G.I.F.T. (GROWING IN FAITH TOGETHER). We meet at 6:30 for soup supper, clean up together, and then have a blended worship at 7:00. There will be both traditional and contemporary worship music, all of it honoring God. At 7:30 we have dessert and fellowship, and folks head home by 7:45. Your participation in G.I.F.T. will make a difference not only in our lives together in Southminster, but in your own spiritual growth as a person.
We are looking for adults and children to participate in our G.I.F.T. celebrations. Would you be willing to read? Play an instrument? Sing (by yourself or with a group)? Please talk to Wendy.
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
HEIFER INTERNATIONAL MISSION PROJECT: *Cheep* *Cheep* Chicks, to many of us, symbolize spring, rebirth, childhood. But for some, chicks can mean more; they can mean survival. Southminster’s children will be collecting money to purchase chicks for Heifer International, helping to fight world hunger. Just $20 buys a flock of chicks for a hungry family, providing eggs and nutrition to the recipients. Please help your children collect change to aid in supporting Heifer, and consider donating. We will be collecting until Easter. Thanks!
EASTER EGG MADNESS: Help make the Easter party as tasty as possible and donate small candies (No Valentine’s candy or candy with peanuts, please) for the Easter egg hunt. We will be collecting candy until March 21 and will have egg-stuffing parties on March 7 and 21. All are invited! And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Children’s Easter Egg Breakfast on Saturday, April 3, at 9:30 a.m.! There will be games (weather permitting), crafts, breakfast, and an Easter egg hunt. The breakfast wouldn’t be possible without your support!
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Thank you to all who have helped with our Christian Ed. ministries over the past year! It’s already February and time to look ahead to warmer months and the rest of 2010. It’s also time to start thinking about Vacation Bible School! Summer feels like a long time away, but it is not too soon to begin making preparations for this year’s VBS, which will be the last week in July, the 26-30 (Put it on your calendars!). We are looking for people to run, and assist, in each station, so if you love crafts, playing games, music, or just love to help our kids experience God’s Word, please contact someone on the Christian Ed ministry to learn more about it.
ACOLYTE Schedule:
February 28 - Jack Hecker
March 14 - Billy Petersen
March 28 - Maddie Frey
April 11 - Dakota Dolister
April 25 - Haley Jablonski
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
Wednesdays in March (excluding Holy Week) - G.I.F.T. (6:30-7:30 p.m.)
April 3 - Annual Easter Breakfast (9:30 a.m.)
July 26-30 - Vacation Bible School (6:00-8:30 p.m.)
ADULT EDUCATION: Join us at 11:00 a.m. Sunday for our continuing Bible study. The lectionary passages for this week are Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18; Philippians 3:17-4:1; Luke 13:31-35. -Blair
YOUTH!
CASCADE MOUNTAIN SKI/SNOW TUBING TRIP leaves the church Friday at 4:00 p.m. Contact Blair for details.
No SNL this Sunday, February 28. See you next week.
YOUTH MISSION TRIP: Teen-agers, age 14 through college. Prayerfully consider your involvement in our Youth Mission Trip, June 13-19, to Rushville, IN. Contact Blair for details.
NOT just for youth!
TALENT SHOW AND SPAGHETTI DINNER is coming – Sunday, March 14, 5:30 p.m. Sign up your act for our Talent Show and sign up if you are planning to attend. Both sign-up sheets are in the Narthex.
SYS: Save Your Stuff for this year’s RUMMAGE SALE, May 15-16. Proceeds support the Youth Mission Trip.
From the PROPERTY MINISTRY:
Because of very large unplanned expenditures in 2009 for lighting systems and furnaces, our 2010 budget for capital expenditures is now $0. As you may know, one of our challenges for 2010 is to obtain funds to purchase a NEW LAWN TRACTOR to maintain the grounds. The current equipment is broken or in very poor condition. Southminster is now in need of a new tractor this spring before the grass begins to grow (and weeds). Graciously donated time (5-10 hours/week) and equipment in years past has spared Southminster from expensive landscaping fees. ($5000-6000/summer!) The Property Ministry would rather see this money go to local/international mission or important programs that reach out and help people. A 2010 tractor poster and fundraiser box will be in the Narthex on March 7 and 14 for the sole purpose of funding this special purchase in April. Please support this important fundraiser with a monetary donation and your prayers. Email or call John Sundquist for details: Sundquist_john@comcast.net or 630-469-2273.
MARCH FELLOWSHIP EVENT: 76 Trombones are calling your name! There is a sign-up sheet in the narthex for anyone who would like to attend the Lisle Sr. High School spring musical “Music Man.” We will attend the play on Friday, March 19, 8:00pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. You must order by March 7. Any questions please contact Karen Fitzgerald (cell phone: 630-738-8060).
QUILT MINISTRY is going to move to the third Wednesday of each month. (The next gathering will be March 17.) The quilters are glad to have received a sewing machine and iron but are still hoping to get an ironing board. If you have one you’re not using, let Sue Clary or Sue Knisely know.
The S.O.L.A.C.E. SINGLES group is planning to go to the FREE Global Flick (“Happy-Go-Lucky”) at the COD McAninch Art Center on Tuesday, March 23, at 7:30 p.m. We will meet for dinner at 5:00 p.m. at Giordano’s, 455 W. Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn. The sign up sheet is in the narthex.
RECORDINGS OF OUR WORSHIP SERVICES: If you enjoy listening to the Sunday service again but can only listen on a cassette tape, please let Andrea Schmidt know (630-629-4526 or lizzie3@comcast.net). If no one is using the cassettes, we are going to phase them out because the service is available for viewing on DVD.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
February 17, 2010
Dear Friends,
Ash Wednesday is today! Please join us for either or both the soup/chili supper (6:30 p.m.) and the Taize Worship Service with imposition of Ashes (7:15 p.m.).
John Calvin didn’t believe in observing lent, much less Ash Wednesday. Does that surprise you? It is not surprising given that he was so close to the issues of the reformation. The Christian calendar in the “ol’ days” for Presbyterians was simply Easter and Christmas, with the lavishness of Christmas viewed as something questionable.
What a difference 500 years makes! Back in the 1970’s the Presbyterian Church moved toward a more gracious attitude toward the observance of lent and other customs liturgical, as well as other Christian traditions. Our observance of lent is just a little different way from the way some other Christian traditions practice lent. Presbyterian Christians are more apt to take something on rather than give something up. We focus more on our walk with Christ and our baptismal promises rather than the sufferings of Christ. For us, it is more about getting closer to God rather than acts of penance. As for me, each of us is unique in how we relate to God, and one person’s spiritual practice is another person’s distraction. The point is to focus on God and not get distracted from our relationship with our Lord.
What comes to mind when thinking of Lent is “Be Still and Know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) If giving up chocolate for lent will help you know God better, good. If fasting from surfing the net will help you know God better, good. If making time to read scripture or a spiritual book will help you know God better, good.
Southminster is offering a few opportunities to not only get to knew God better, but grow closer to one another as well. Each week we will have a bulletin insert that you can take home with you for prayer and reflection during the week. There will be one scripture reading: a greeting from one of Paul’s epistles. It will also list ministries of this congregation, asking you to remember them in prayer. It wasn’t until I went to Cuba that noticed in a new way just how important church relationships are. You probably remember the saying that the cross not only goes up to God, it goes out to people. Reflecting and praying for our ministries may be one way to embrace our sisters and brothers in faith.
Another opportunity to grow closer to God and one another is sharing in GIFT, (Growing in Faith Together). Each Wednesday evening in March we will meet at 6:30 for a simple supper, then worship, and then dessert. The Rev. Jim Shiflett and Linnea Holman will help us with their theater storytelling gifts as we reflect on parables during our worship time. We plan to be done by 7:45. Everyone is welcome for some or part of GIFT, even kids in p.j.s! This is based on Acts 2:42 - “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Whatever you do in observance of Lent, may you grow closer to Christ and to one another. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Today is ASH WEDNESDAY. Join us for a simple SOUP AND CHILI SUPPER at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. We will have a Taize WORSHIP SERVICE at 7:15 p.m. in the sanctuary including the imposition of ashes. (Choir rehearsal follows the service.)
PRESBYTERIAN READERS will meet a week later than usual, to allow everyone to attend the Ash Wednesday service. Join us Wednesday, February 24, from 7:30-8:30 p.m. in the parlor. Everyone is welcome, and you may invite friends from outside of church. Our book for February is “Life of Pi,” a fantasy adventure novel written by Canadian author Yann Martel. The story was inspired by Martel’s childhood friend Eleanor and her adventures in India.
WOMEN’S CIRCLE: All women of Southminster are invited to attend Women’s Circle this Friday, February 19, at 9:30 a.m. in the parlor. We’ve had a change in the program from what was previously announced; Chris Kozich has kindly agreed to speak on her profession as an attorney.
Reminder: The DEADLINE FOR THE MARCH DIALOG is this Saturday, February 20.
PRESBYTERY was postponed until Saturday, Feb. 20, at Elmhurst Presbyterian Church. Pre-Presbytery business will begin at 9:00 a.m.; Assembly begins at 11:00 a.m.
“SECOND HELPINGS” this Sunday! See the paragraph under CHRISTIAN ED. below.
JUBILEE CELEBRATION 2011! Southminster will be 50 years old on March 5, 2011. Plans are underway for a year of celebration beginning on New Year’s Day 2011.
The 50th Anniversary Planning Team needs your input and help - whether you have been a member or friend of Southminster for 50 years or 50 days. There are opportunities for long-term assistance on the Planning Team itself, or short-term commitment to plan one of the monthly anniversary activities or help with a single event.
If you are interested in joining the 50th Anniversary Planning Team or if you would like to assist with a particular celebration event, please contact Sue Clary (630-790-1109, or sueclary@sbcglobal.net ) or Pat Wiedner (630-858-0761, or pjwiedner@hotmail.com ) by Sunday, February28, 2010.
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES: Thanks to those who have already donated! This is the last week we are collecting donations for our annual college care packages! Any non-perishable food (granola bars, pretzels, and the like), small school supplies (like pens, highlighters, or erasers), or even travel packs of tissues would be appreciated. Just bring them to church and drop them off in the narthex. We also need re-closable boxes (like those from Market Day). Instead of recycling these boxes, bring them in to church. Also, if you have a son or daughter currently enrolled in college, please send their school addresses to Megan Bohi at smpcce@ameritech.net, call the church with the information, or even slip a note under the door of the Christian Education office as soon as possible. (It doesn’t hurt to give us the current address, even if you think we already have it.) Help remind our college students how much they are loved! Thanks!
EASTER EGG MADNESS: There will be an Easter Egg stuffing party this Sunday after church! Come join us for some egg-stuffing fellowship! All are welcome! We are also collecting candy to stuff those eggs with. Help make the Easter party as tasty as possible and donate small candies (No Valentine’s candy or candy with peanuts, please) for the Easter egg hunt. We will be collecting candy until March 21. And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Children’s Easter Egg Breakfast on Saturday, April 3, at 9:30 a.m! Yum!
SECOND HELPINGS: This Sunday, February 21 we will have Second Helpings. “Second Helpings” is an extra serving of Christian Education for the whole Church family, and ALL are welcome. On the third Sunday of the month at 11:00 a.m., adults and children alike spend time learning about Christ, God, and themselves as they participate in either adult Bible study or children’s programming. We follow this with a light lunch. Remember, everyone is invited, so don’t miss out on the fun! We saw many of you there last month, and hope to see even more this time!
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: It’s time to start thinking about Vacation Bible School! Summer feels like a long time away, but it is not too soon to begin making preparations for this year’s VBS, which will be the last week in July (26-30) from 6:00-8:30 p.m. (Put it on your calendars!) We also are looking people to run Music and Games, and for assistants in Music, Games, Crafts, and Story, and all-around helpers for each day; so if you love crafts, playing games, or music, please contact someone in the Christian Ed ministry to learn more about it.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION FOR ALL AGES: Christian education is not just for our children. Don’t forget about all of the wonderful adult programming. After the service on Sunday, think about staying for Adult Ed! Blair leads a great group following fellowship in the parlor. (See below for the scripture passages Blair’s class will discuss this week.) We hope to see you there!
ACOLYTE Schedule:
February 28 - Jack Hecker
March 14- Billy Petersen
March 28- Maddie Frey
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
February 21- Second Helpings
Wednesdays in March- GIFT (6:30-7:30 p.m.)
April 3 - Annual Easter Breakfast (9:30 a.m.)
July 26-30 - Vacation Bible School (6:00-8:30 p.m.)
ADULT EDUCATION: Join us at 11:00 a.m. Sunday for our continuing Bible study. The lectionary passages for this week are Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Romans 10:8b-13; Luke 4:1-13. -Blair
YOUTH!
SKI/SNOW TUBING TRIP is Feb. 26-27. If you have not told me you are coming, please do so ASAP. Gonna be a great time!
TALENT SHOW: Mark you calendar for Sunday, March 14, 5:30 pm, at Southminster. It’s our Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Talent Show, in support of the Youth Mission Trip. Sign-up sheets for attendees and performers are in the Narthex.
RUMMAGE SALE is coming! (May 15-16), so Save Your Stuff (SYS) for the sale.
Rushville, Indiana, is our YOUTH MISSION TRIP destination for this June 13-19. Teen-agers (age 14 & up), prayerfully consider being a part. Talk to Blair or one of last year’s team members to learn more.
Important announcements from the PROPERTY MINISTRY:
After careful discussion and planning, we are happy to announce that we will be resealing and restriping the parking lot this spring! This work will improve the appearance and condition of our lot and even add an additional handicapped parking space.
Because of very large unplanned expenditures in 2009 for lighting systems and furnaces, our 2010 budget for capital expenditures is now $0. As you may know, one of our challenges for 2010 is to obtain funds to purchase a NEW LAWN TRACTOR to maintain the grounds. The current equipment is broken or in very poor condition. Southminster is now in need of a new tractor this spring before the grass begins to grow (and weeds). Graciously donated time (5-10 hours/week) and equipment in years past has spared Southminster from expensive landscaping fees. ($5000-6000/summer!) The Property Ministry would rather see this money go to local/international mission or important programs that reach out and help people. A 2010 tractor poster and fundraiser box will be in the Narthex on March 7 and 14 for the sole purpose of funding this special purchase in April. Please support this important fundraiser with a monetary donation and your prayers. Email or call John Sundquist for details: Sundquist_john@comcast.net or 630-469-2273.
MARCH FELLOWSHIP EVENT: 76 Trombones are calling your name! There is a sign-up sheet in the narthex for anyone who would like to attend the Lisle Sr. High School spring musical “Music Man.” We will attend the play on Friday, March 19, 8:00pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. You must order by March 7. Any questions please contact Karen Fitzgerald (cell phone: 630-738-8060).
QUILT MINISTRY is going to move to the third Wednesday of each month. (The next gathering will be March 17.) The quilters are glad to have received a sewing machine and iron but are still hoping to get an ironing board. If you have one you’re not using, let Sue Clary or Sue Knisely know.
The S.O.L.A.C.E. SINGLES group is planning to go to the FREE Global Flick (“Happy-Go-Lucky”) at the COD McAninch Art Center on Tuesday, March 23, at 7:30 p.m. We will meet for dinner at 5:00 p.m. at Giordano’s, 455 W. Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn. The sign up sheet is in the narthex.
Ash Wednesday is today! Please join us for either or both the soup/chili supper (6:30 p.m.) and the Taize Worship Service with imposition of Ashes (7:15 p.m.).
John Calvin didn’t believe in observing lent, much less Ash Wednesday. Does that surprise you? It is not surprising given that he was so close to the issues of the reformation. The Christian calendar in the “ol’ days” for Presbyterians was simply Easter and Christmas, with the lavishness of Christmas viewed as something questionable.
What a difference 500 years makes! Back in the 1970’s the Presbyterian Church moved toward a more gracious attitude toward the observance of lent and other customs liturgical, as well as other Christian traditions. Our observance of lent is just a little different way from the way some other Christian traditions practice lent. Presbyterian Christians are more apt to take something on rather than give something up. We focus more on our walk with Christ and our baptismal promises rather than the sufferings of Christ. For us, it is more about getting closer to God rather than acts of penance. As for me, each of us is unique in how we relate to God, and one person’s spiritual practice is another person’s distraction. The point is to focus on God and not get distracted from our relationship with our Lord.
What comes to mind when thinking of Lent is “Be Still and Know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) If giving up chocolate for lent will help you know God better, good. If fasting from surfing the net will help you know God better, good. If making time to read scripture or a spiritual book will help you know God better, good.
Southminster is offering a few opportunities to not only get to knew God better, but grow closer to one another as well. Each week we will have a bulletin insert that you can take home with you for prayer and reflection during the week. There will be one scripture reading: a greeting from one of Paul’s epistles. It will also list ministries of this congregation, asking you to remember them in prayer. It wasn’t until I went to Cuba that noticed in a new way just how important church relationships are. You probably remember the saying that the cross not only goes up to God, it goes out to people. Reflecting and praying for our ministries may be one way to embrace our sisters and brothers in faith.
Another opportunity to grow closer to God and one another is sharing in GIFT, (Growing in Faith Together). Each Wednesday evening in March we will meet at 6:30 for a simple supper, then worship, and then dessert. The Rev. Jim Shiflett and Linnea Holman will help us with their theater storytelling gifts as we reflect on parables during our worship time. We plan to be done by 7:45. Everyone is welcome for some or part of GIFT, even kids in p.j.s! This is based on Acts 2:42 - “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Whatever you do in observance of Lent, may you grow closer to Christ and to one another. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Today is ASH WEDNESDAY. Join us for a simple SOUP AND CHILI SUPPER at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. We will have a Taize WORSHIP SERVICE at 7:15 p.m. in the sanctuary including the imposition of ashes. (Choir rehearsal follows the service.)
PRESBYTERIAN READERS will meet a week later than usual, to allow everyone to attend the Ash Wednesday service. Join us Wednesday, February 24, from 7:30-8:30 p.m. in the parlor. Everyone is welcome, and you may invite friends from outside of church. Our book for February is “Life of Pi,” a fantasy adventure novel written by Canadian author Yann Martel. The story was inspired by Martel’s childhood friend Eleanor and her adventures in India.
WOMEN’S CIRCLE: All women of Southminster are invited to attend Women’s Circle this Friday, February 19, at 9:30 a.m. in the parlor. We’ve had a change in the program from what was previously announced; Chris Kozich has kindly agreed to speak on her profession as an attorney.
Reminder: The DEADLINE FOR THE MARCH DIALOG is this Saturday, February 20.
PRESBYTERY was postponed until Saturday, Feb. 20, at Elmhurst Presbyterian Church. Pre-Presbytery business will begin at 9:00 a.m.; Assembly begins at 11:00 a.m.
“SECOND HELPINGS” this Sunday! See the paragraph under CHRISTIAN ED. below.
JUBILEE CELEBRATION 2011! Southminster will be 50 years old on March 5, 2011. Plans are underway for a year of celebration beginning on New Year’s Day 2011.
The 50th Anniversary Planning Team needs your input and help - whether you have been a member or friend of Southminster for 50 years or 50 days. There are opportunities for long-term assistance on the Planning Team itself, or short-term commitment to plan one of the monthly anniversary activities or help with a single event.
If you are interested in joining the 50th Anniversary Planning Team or if you would like to assist with a particular celebration event, please contact Sue Clary (630-790-1109, or sueclary@sbcglobal.net ) or Pat Wiedner (630-858-0761, or pjwiedner@hotmail.com ) by Sunday, February28, 2010.
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES: Thanks to those who have already donated! This is the last week we are collecting donations for our annual college care packages! Any non-perishable food (granola bars, pretzels, and the like), small school supplies (like pens, highlighters, or erasers), or even travel packs of tissues would be appreciated. Just bring them to church and drop them off in the narthex. We also need re-closable boxes (like those from Market Day). Instead of recycling these boxes, bring them in to church. Also, if you have a son or daughter currently enrolled in college, please send their school addresses to Megan Bohi at smpcce@ameritech.net, call the church with the information, or even slip a note under the door of the Christian Education office as soon as possible. (It doesn’t hurt to give us the current address, even if you think we already have it.) Help remind our college students how much they are loved! Thanks!
EASTER EGG MADNESS: There will be an Easter Egg stuffing party this Sunday after church! Come join us for some egg-stuffing fellowship! All are welcome! We are also collecting candy to stuff those eggs with. Help make the Easter party as tasty as possible and donate small candies (No Valentine’s candy or candy with peanuts, please) for the Easter egg hunt. We will be collecting candy until March 21. And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Children’s Easter Egg Breakfast on Saturday, April 3, at 9:30 a.m! Yum!
SECOND HELPINGS: This Sunday, February 21 we will have Second Helpings. “Second Helpings” is an extra serving of Christian Education for the whole Church family, and ALL are welcome. On the third Sunday of the month at 11:00 a.m., adults and children alike spend time learning about Christ, God, and themselves as they participate in either adult Bible study or children’s programming. We follow this with a light lunch. Remember, everyone is invited, so don’t miss out on the fun! We saw many of you there last month, and hope to see even more this time!
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: It’s time to start thinking about Vacation Bible School! Summer feels like a long time away, but it is not too soon to begin making preparations for this year’s VBS, which will be the last week in July (26-30) from 6:00-8:30 p.m. (Put it on your calendars!) We also are looking people to run Music and Games, and for assistants in Music, Games, Crafts, and Story, and all-around helpers for each day; so if you love crafts, playing games, or music, please contact someone in the Christian Ed ministry to learn more about it.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION FOR ALL AGES: Christian education is not just for our children. Don’t forget about all of the wonderful adult programming. After the service on Sunday, think about staying for Adult Ed! Blair leads a great group following fellowship in the parlor. (See below for the scripture passages Blair’s class will discuss this week.) We hope to see you there!
ACOLYTE Schedule:
February 28 - Jack Hecker
March 14- Billy Petersen
March 28- Maddie Frey
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
February 21- Second Helpings
Wednesdays in March- GIFT (6:30-7:30 p.m.)
April 3 - Annual Easter Breakfast (9:30 a.m.)
July 26-30 - Vacation Bible School (6:00-8:30 p.m.)
ADULT EDUCATION: Join us at 11:00 a.m. Sunday for our continuing Bible study. The lectionary passages for this week are Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Romans 10:8b-13; Luke 4:1-13. -Blair
YOUTH!
SKI/SNOW TUBING TRIP is Feb. 26-27. If you have not told me you are coming, please do so ASAP. Gonna be a great time!
TALENT SHOW: Mark you calendar for Sunday, March 14, 5:30 pm, at Southminster. It’s our Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Talent Show, in support of the Youth Mission Trip. Sign-up sheets for attendees and performers are in the Narthex.
RUMMAGE SALE is coming! (May 15-16), so Save Your Stuff (SYS) for the sale.
Rushville, Indiana, is our YOUTH MISSION TRIP destination for this June 13-19. Teen-agers (age 14 & up), prayerfully consider being a part. Talk to Blair or one of last year’s team members to learn more.
Important announcements from the PROPERTY MINISTRY:
After careful discussion and planning, we are happy to announce that we will be resealing and restriping the parking lot this spring! This work will improve the appearance and condition of our lot and even add an additional handicapped parking space.
Because of very large unplanned expenditures in 2009 for lighting systems and furnaces, our 2010 budget for capital expenditures is now $0. As you may know, one of our challenges for 2010 is to obtain funds to purchase a NEW LAWN TRACTOR to maintain the grounds. The current equipment is broken or in very poor condition. Southminster is now in need of a new tractor this spring before the grass begins to grow (and weeds). Graciously donated time (5-10 hours/week) and equipment in years past has spared Southminster from expensive landscaping fees. ($5000-6000/summer!) The Property Ministry would rather see this money go to local/international mission or important programs that reach out and help people. A 2010 tractor poster and fundraiser box will be in the Narthex on March 7 and 14 for the sole purpose of funding this special purchase in April. Please support this important fundraiser with a monetary donation and your prayers. Email or call John Sundquist for details: Sundquist_john@comcast.net or 630-469-2273.
MARCH FELLOWSHIP EVENT: 76 Trombones are calling your name! There is a sign-up sheet in the narthex for anyone who would like to attend the Lisle Sr. High School spring musical “Music Man.” We will attend the play on Friday, March 19, 8:00pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. You must order by March 7. Any questions please contact Karen Fitzgerald (cell phone: 630-738-8060).
QUILT MINISTRY is going to move to the third Wednesday of each month. (The next gathering will be March 17.) The quilters are glad to have received a sewing machine and iron but are still hoping to get an ironing board. If you have one you’re not using, let Sue Clary or Sue Knisely know.
The S.O.L.A.C.E. SINGLES group is planning to go to the FREE Global Flick (“Happy-Go-Lucky”) at the COD McAninch Art Center on Tuesday, March 23, at 7:30 p.m. We will meet for dinner at 5:00 p.m. at Giordano’s, 455 W. Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn. The sign up sheet is in the narthex.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
February 10, 2010
Southminster E-Notes for February 10, 2010
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:
If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Dear Friends,
Think for a moment the difference between falling down when someone is beside you and falling down when you are alone. The two experiences are quite a bit different. If you fall when a friend is beside you they share concern, sometimes they help you up, and their care serves to settle your nerves. When you fall alone, sure you can get up, but something beyond your body and dignity are hurt. Your soul feels ragged from the fall.
When I first asked about our ministry with our sister church in Cuba I was told an important story that when the first Presbyterians returned after the revolution, the Cuban Presbyterians remarked, “We thought that you had forgotten us!” Ours is an important ministry of remembering who they and we are: sisters and brothers in Christ.
After our trip I have come to understand our relationship in a deeper way. Connectionalism is very important in Presbyterian circles and extremely difficult in Cuba. Ours is a ministry of presence, not presents! The material gifts we give are deeply needed and received graciously, but the people of our sister church want something more. They want us! It is difficult to express how very cut off they are from us. The Catholic Church has the force of the Vatican. Vatican City as you may recall is a political entity. Presbyterians have no such arrangement. Cuban Presbyterians are very much alone. When we remember them in prayers, send them letters, and visit they are reminded that they are not alone, but are very loved by their sisters and brothers in faith. Each visit we make smuggles in hope, love, and joy. Yes, they have Bibles, but we bring much needed fellowship. “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work.” A gift of presence should not be undervalued. A threefold cord of us, them, and God is not quickly broken and is of lasting value. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
P.S. It is good to be back.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
SCHEDULE CHANGES:
MISSION MINISTRY will meet TONIGHT, Wednesday, Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.
PRESBYTERY was postponed until Saturday, Feb. 20, at Elmhurst Presbyterian Church. Pre-Presbytery business will begin at 9:00 a.m.; Assembly begins at 11:00 a.m.
YOUNG ADULTS GROUP meets tonight, February 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Wendy and Blair’s. Please call to let them know if you’re coming.
No experience required to join our QUILT MINISTRY! We meet the second Wednesday of each month (in February that’s tonight, the 10th) at 7:30 p.m. We’re moving downstairs to Fellowship Hall because there are more electrical outlets there.
And the Quilt Ministry has need of the following items: an ironing board, an iron, a sewing machine. If you have one of these that you’re not using, it can be put to good use! Let Sue Clary or Sue Knisely know.
FEBRUARY FELLOWSHIP EVENT: Mardi Gras Game Night is this Saturday February 13, starting at 6:00 p.m. We’ll celebrate Mardi Gras, feast on a pancake buffet (with a variety of toppings), and play board games and Bingo. Fun for all, and a good time to invite friends to come with you. Mark your calendars now.
The JUNIOR HIGH CHIME CHOIR is playing in worship this Sunday, Feb. 14. Please be in the choir loft by 9:00 a.m. for rehearsal.
If you missed “SOUPER BOWL” Sunday, you may still bring a can of soup for the People’s Resource Center Food Pantry this coming Sunday. Drop it in the big “soup can” in the Narthex on your way to worship.
WOMEN’S SUNDAY EVENING BIBLE STUDY: We will begin our next Bible Study this Sunday, February 14, at 7:00 p.m. We will use the book “Breaking the Worry Habit Forever.” All women of the church are welcome. Please see Tricia Smith for a book.
Begin Lent with us on ASH WEDNESDAY, February 17. Come for a simple SOUP AND CHILI SUPPER at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. We will have a Taize WORSHIP SERVICE at 7:15 p.m. in the sanctuary including the imposition of ashes. (Choir rehearsal follows the service.)
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES: Thanks to those who have already donated! We are collecting donations for our annual college care packages! Any non-perishable food (granola bars, pretzels, and the like), small school supplies (like pens, highlighters, or erasers), or even travel packs of tissues would be appreciated. Just bring them to church and drop them off in the narthex. We also need re-closable boxes (like those from Market Day). Instead of recycling these boxes, bring them in to church. Also, if you have a son or daughter currently enrolled in college, please send their school addresses to Megan Bohi at smpcce@ameritech.net, call the church with the information, or even slip a note under the door of the Christian Education office as soon as possible. (It doesn’t hurt to give us the current address, even if you think we already have it.) Help remind our college students how much they are loved! Thanks!
EASTER EGG GOODIES: The Annual Easter Breakfast is less than two months away, and it’s time to start collecting delicious candy to stuff in those eggs! Help make the Easter party as tasty as possible and donate small candies (No Valentine’s candy, please) for the Easter egg hunt. We will be collecting candy beginning this Sunday, until March 21.Yum!
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: It’s time to start thinking about Vacation Bible School! Summer feels like a long time away, but it is not too soon to begin making preparations for this year’s VBS, which will be the last week in July (26-30) from 6:00-8:30 p.m. (Put it on your calendars!) We also are looking people to run Music and Games, and for assistants in Music, Games, Crafts, and Story, and all-around helpers for each day; so if you love crafts, playing games, or music, please contact someone in the Christian Ed ministry to learn more about it.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION FOR ALL AGES: Christian education is not just for our children. Don’t forget about all of the wonderful adult programming. After the service on Sunday, think about staying for Adult Ed! Blair leads a great group following fellowship in the parlor. (See below for the scripture passages Blair’s class will discuss this week.) We hope to see you there!
SECOND HELPINGS: On February 21 we will have Second Helpings. “Second Helpings” is an extra serving of Christian Education for the whole Church family, and ALL are welcome. On the third Sunday of the month at 11:00 a.m., adults and children alike spend time learning about Christ, God, and themselves as they participate in either adult Bible study or children’s programming. Remember, everyone is invited, so don’t miss out on the fun! We saw many of you there last month, and hope to see even more this time!
ACOLYTE Schedule:
February 14 - Nalani Johnson
February 28 - Jack Hecker
March 14- Billy Petersen
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
February 21- Second Helpings
Wednesdays in March- GIFT (6:30-7:30)
April 3 - Annual Easter Breakfast
July 26-30 - Vacation Bible School (6:00-8:30 p.m.)
ADULT EDUCATION: Join us at 11:00 a.m. Sunday for our continuing Bible study. The lectionary passages for this week are Exodus 34:29-35; 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2; Luke 9:28-36 (37-43). -Blair
YOUTH!
SNL: See you Sunday, PYNGUINS at 6:00 p.m. and SPY at 7:00 p.m., for SNL. Bring your Valentine!
YOUTH SKI TRIP: Feb. 26 and 27 at Cascade Mountain, WI. Contact Blair for details. “Wait! Feb. 26 &27? That is really soon!” “Yup.” “I’d better talk to Blair now!” “Yup.” Avoid the “yups,” talk to me soon.
From Youth, for EVERYONE:
March 14 is time for the TALENT SHOW! Come for a sumptuous Spaghetti Dinner and our terribly terrific Talent Show, featuring talent from every corner of Southminster!!! Dinner is served at 5:30 p.m. Adults, $5, children $3, free if you’re under three! See the sign-up sheets in the narthex. Sign-up to perform and sign-up to attend. Proceeds support the Youth Mission Trip.
SYS: Save Your Stuff for our annual RUMMAGE SALE fundraiser: May 15 and 16. Your junk is our profit becomes youth mission for God’s glory. As the kids say, “It’s all good.”
WOMEN’S CIRCLE: All women of Southminster are invited to attend Women’s Circle on Friday, February 19, at 9:30 a.m. in the parlor. We’ve had a change in the program from what was previously announced; Chris Kozich has kindly agreed to speak on her profession as an attorney.
MARCH FELLOWSHIP EVENT: 76 Trombones are calling your name! There is a sign-up sheet in the narthex for anyone who would like to attend the Lisle Sr. High School spring musical “Music Man.” We will attend the play on Friday, March 19, 8:00pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. You must order by March 7. Any questions please contact Karen Fitzgerald (cell phone: 630-738-8060).
The S.O.L.A.C.E. SINGLES group is planning to go to the FREE Global Flick (Happy-Go- Lucky) at the COD McAninch Art Center on Tuesday, March 23, at 7:30 p.m. We will meet for dinner at 5:00 p.m. at Giordano’s, 455 W. Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn. The sign up sheet is in the narthex.
A reminder to all: the FRONT DOOR OF THE CHURCH OFTEN DOES NOT CLOSE SECURELY unless you push/pull it shut. Please check behind you when you enter or leave the building to make sure the door has locked. It’s very worrisome for the first person to arrive for work in the morning or for a meeting or rehearsal in the evening and find the door not secure.
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:
If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Dear Friends,
Think for a moment the difference between falling down when someone is beside you and falling down when you are alone. The two experiences are quite a bit different. If you fall when a friend is beside you they share concern, sometimes they help you up, and their care serves to settle your nerves. When you fall alone, sure you can get up, but something beyond your body and dignity are hurt. Your soul feels ragged from the fall.
When I first asked about our ministry with our sister church in Cuba I was told an important story that when the first Presbyterians returned after the revolution, the Cuban Presbyterians remarked, “We thought that you had forgotten us!” Ours is an important ministry of remembering who they and we are: sisters and brothers in Christ.
After our trip I have come to understand our relationship in a deeper way. Connectionalism is very important in Presbyterian circles and extremely difficult in Cuba. Ours is a ministry of presence, not presents! The material gifts we give are deeply needed and received graciously, but the people of our sister church want something more. They want us! It is difficult to express how very cut off they are from us. The Catholic Church has the force of the Vatican. Vatican City as you may recall is a political entity. Presbyterians have no such arrangement. Cuban Presbyterians are very much alone. When we remember them in prayers, send them letters, and visit they are reminded that they are not alone, but are very loved by their sisters and brothers in faith. Each visit we make smuggles in hope, love, and joy. Yes, they have Bibles, but we bring much needed fellowship. “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work.” A gift of presence should not be undervalued. A threefold cord of us, them, and God is not quickly broken and is of lasting value. Take it from here,
Love, Wendy
P.S. It is good to be back.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
SCHEDULE CHANGES:
MISSION MINISTRY will meet TONIGHT, Wednesday, Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room.
PRESBYTERY was postponed until Saturday, Feb. 20, at Elmhurst Presbyterian Church. Pre-Presbytery business will begin at 9:00 a.m.; Assembly begins at 11:00 a.m.
YOUNG ADULTS GROUP meets tonight, February 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Wendy and Blair’s. Please call to let them know if you’re coming.
No experience required to join our QUILT MINISTRY! We meet the second Wednesday of each month (in February that’s tonight, the 10th) at 7:30 p.m. We’re moving downstairs to Fellowship Hall because there are more electrical outlets there.
And the Quilt Ministry has need of the following items: an ironing board, an iron, a sewing machine. If you have one of these that you’re not using, it can be put to good use! Let Sue Clary or Sue Knisely know.
FEBRUARY FELLOWSHIP EVENT: Mardi Gras Game Night is this Saturday February 13, starting at 6:00 p.m. We’ll celebrate Mardi Gras, feast on a pancake buffet (with a variety of toppings), and play board games and Bingo. Fun for all, and a good time to invite friends to come with you. Mark your calendars now.
The JUNIOR HIGH CHIME CHOIR is playing in worship this Sunday, Feb. 14. Please be in the choir loft by 9:00 a.m. for rehearsal.
If you missed “SOUPER BOWL” Sunday, you may still bring a can of soup for the People’s Resource Center Food Pantry this coming Sunday. Drop it in the big “soup can” in the Narthex on your way to worship.
WOMEN’S SUNDAY EVENING BIBLE STUDY: We will begin our next Bible Study this Sunday, February 14, at 7:00 p.m. We will use the book “Breaking the Worry Habit Forever.” All women of the church are welcome. Please see Tricia Smith for a book.
Begin Lent with us on ASH WEDNESDAY, February 17. Come for a simple SOUP AND CHILI SUPPER at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. We will have a Taize WORSHIP SERVICE at 7:15 p.m. in the sanctuary including the imposition of ashes. (Choir rehearsal follows the service.)
CHRISTIAN ED. NOTES:
COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES: Thanks to those who have already donated! We are collecting donations for our annual college care packages! Any non-perishable food (granola bars, pretzels, and the like), small school supplies (like pens, highlighters, or erasers), or even travel packs of tissues would be appreciated. Just bring them to church and drop them off in the narthex. We also need re-closable boxes (like those from Market Day). Instead of recycling these boxes, bring them in to church. Also, if you have a son or daughter currently enrolled in college, please send their school addresses to Megan Bohi at smpcce@ameritech.net, call the church with the information, or even slip a note under the door of the Christian Education office as soon as possible. (It doesn’t hurt to give us the current address, even if you think we already have it.) Help remind our college students how much they are loved! Thanks!
EASTER EGG GOODIES: The Annual Easter Breakfast is less than two months away, and it’s time to start collecting delicious candy to stuff in those eggs! Help make the Easter party as tasty as possible and donate small candies (No Valentine’s candy, please) for the Easter egg hunt. We will be collecting candy beginning this Sunday, until March 21.Yum!
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: It’s time to start thinking about Vacation Bible School! Summer feels like a long time away, but it is not too soon to begin making preparations for this year’s VBS, which will be the last week in July (26-30) from 6:00-8:30 p.m. (Put it on your calendars!) We also are looking people to run Music and Games, and for assistants in Music, Games, Crafts, and Story, and all-around helpers for each day; so if you love crafts, playing games, or music, please contact someone in the Christian Ed ministry to learn more about it.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION FOR ALL AGES: Christian education is not just for our children. Don’t forget about all of the wonderful adult programming. After the service on Sunday, think about staying for Adult Ed! Blair leads a great group following fellowship in the parlor. (See below for the scripture passages Blair’s class will discuss this week.) We hope to see you there!
SECOND HELPINGS: On February 21 we will have Second Helpings. “Second Helpings” is an extra serving of Christian Education for the whole Church family, and ALL are welcome. On the third Sunday of the month at 11:00 a.m., adults and children alike spend time learning about Christ, God, and themselves as they participate in either adult Bible study or children’s programming. Remember, everyone is invited, so don’t miss out on the fun! We saw many of you there last month, and hope to see even more this time!
ACOLYTE Schedule:
February 14 - Nalani Johnson
February 28 - Jack Hecker
March 14- Billy Petersen
WHAT’S AHEAD IN CHRISTIAN ED?
February 21- Second Helpings
Wednesdays in March- GIFT (6:30-7:30)
April 3 - Annual Easter Breakfast
July 26-30 - Vacation Bible School (6:00-8:30 p.m.)
ADULT EDUCATION: Join us at 11:00 a.m. Sunday for our continuing Bible study. The lectionary passages for this week are Exodus 34:29-35; 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2; Luke 9:28-36 (37-43). -Blair
YOUTH!
SNL: See you Sunday, PYNGUINS at 6:00 p.m. and SPY at 7:00 p.m., for SNL. Bring your Valentine!
YOUTH SKI TRIP: Feb. 26 and 27 at Cascade Mountain, WI. Contact Blair for details. “Wait! Feb. 26 &27? That is really soon!” “Yup.” “I’d better talk to Blair now!” “Yup.” Avoid the “yups,” talk to me soon.
From Youth, for EVERYONE:
March 14 is time for the TALENT SHOW! Come for a sumptuous Spaghetti Dinner and our terribly terrific Talent Show, featuring talent from every corner of Southminster!!! Dinner is served at 5:30 p.m. Adults, $5, children $3, free if you’re under three! See the sign-up sheets in the narthex. Sign-up to perform and sign-up to attend. Proceeds support the Youth Mission Trip.
SYS: Save Your Stuff for our annual RUMMAGE SALE fundraiser: May 15 and 16. Your junk is our profit becomes youth mission for God’s glory. As the kids say, “It’s all good.”
WOMEN’S CIRCLE: All women of Southminster are invited to attend Women’s Circle on Friday, February 19, at 9:30 a.m. in the parlor. We’ve had a change in the program from what was previously announced; Chris Kozich has kindly agreed to speak on her profession as an attorney.
MARCH FELLOWSHIP EVENT: 76 Trombones are calling your name! There is a sign-up sheet in the narthex for anyone who would like to attend the Lisle Sr. High School spring musical “Music Man.” We will attend the play on Friday, March 19, 8:00pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. You must order by March 7. Any questions please contact Karen Fitzgerald (cell phone: 630-738-8060).
The S.O.L.A.C.E. SINGLES group is planning to go to the FREE Global Flick (Happy-Go- Lucky) at the COD McAninch Art Center on Tuesday, March 23, at 7:30 p.m. We will meet for dinner at 5:00 p.m. at Giordano’s, 455 W. Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn. The sign up sheet is in the narthex.
A reminder to all: the FRONT DOOR OF THE CHURCH OFTEN DOES NOT CLOSE SECURELY unless you push/pull it shut. Please check behind you when you enter or leave the building to make sure the door has locked. It’s very worrisome for the first person to arrive for work in the morning or for a meeting or rehearsal in the evening and find the door not secure.
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