"NEWS AND NOTES"
OF Somerset Hills Lutheran Church
May 2009 |
| FROM PASTOR BOB KUPPLER... |
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We are adding a 2nd Sunday worship opportunity beginning May 17th. For many of us, the culture in which we live (and at times our own schedules and conflicts!) prevents us from being part of regular Sunday morning worship. Our new worship event will be Sunday evening, from 5:15 pm - 6 pm, giving you a great alternative time to worship the Lord. The format - which we tried out this past Sunday - will be informal, with contemporary music, teaching/preaching, and prayer. You will be on your way home by 6. We are also planning meaningful activity for children during the service. We pray that this Sunday evening worship event will also become part of the foundation of our efforts to bring Christ to other people in our community; these are our friends, neighbors and acquaintances who may not be part of the Church any longer, as well as those who may never have had any meaningful or positive exposure to God who loves us. In fact, the service will be planned so that those with very basic, or little or no "church" experience will be at ease and easily engaged. For this to succeed, we ask SHLC family members - to pray that the service would be God-pleasing; - to attend the service; - to be willing to be part of the effort to engage others so that they might come to this event. There will be a brief gathering this Saturday, May 2nd, from 9 - 10:30 to begin these efforts. Please come!
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WORSHIP SCHEDULE |
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May 3rd
The Fourth Sunday of Easter
"Good Shepherd Sunday"
9:30 am Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:45)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
"Jesus Cares For Me" 10:45 - 11:45 am Adult Bible Study
May 10th
The Fifth Sunday of Easter
9:30 am Worship with Holy Communion
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism -
Anna Catherine Knehans
Erika Marie Knehans
Gavin Michael Vitolo
The Rite of Confirmation
Austin Ryan Gobbo
(Sunday School children begin with parents in sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:45)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
"I Live for Jesus" 10:45 - 11:45 am Adult Bible Study
May 17th
The Sixth Sunday of Easter
9:30 am Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:45)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
"Jesus Loves/I Love"
10:45 - 11:45 am Adult Bible Study
5:15 - 6:00 pm Contemporary Worship Event
May 24th
Ascension Sunday
9:30 am Family Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children remain with their parents for the entire worship service)
10:45 - 11:45 am Adult Bible Study
May 31st
Pentecost Sunday
9:30 am Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parets in sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:45)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
"The Helper"
10:45 - 11:45 am Adult Bible Study |
| FAMILY COMEDY NIGHT COMING TO SHLC |
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Rich Melheim had a mom who read to him, sang and prayed with him every night. He had a dad who loved to tell stories and wasn't afraid to talk about his faith. When he became a dad, Rich didn't just want to be a good dad. He wanted to be a great dad. Every night in his home he and his wife made sure their kids got the same kind of love and attention... plus a pillow fight.
The comedian, cartoonist, author, playwright, song writer, log cabin builder and amateur complexity theorist is also a Lutheran pastor on a mission. Rich is coming to town this summer to share five simple steps you can take tonight to help keep your family together in a world that could tear it apart.
Check out "The Faith 5" at www.faithink.com and listen to Rich's "Calling All Dads" iPod interviews. If you like what you hear, pack up the van and bring the whole family* to:
Church: Somerset Hills Lutheran Church Date: Wednesday, May 27th Times: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
*This event is designed for dads, moms, children of all ages, grand-parents, teachers and everyone in between who cares about kids! Pillows for the pillow fight are optional.
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| KOBON MINISTRY UPDATE |
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Dear Friends,
Recently Lindon was telling us how much his daughter Sylvia enjoys school. She has to walk several miles there and back including crossing a wide swift-flowing river. But she loves school. She now has a baby sister - who was given to Lindon and his wife by his sister as a gift because they only have Sylvia.
We loaned our camera to Lindon to get some photographs of the new Minimib school at Ainong. We were very pleased to see the happy children in the two classes - 35 in kindergarten and 27 in first grade. It was nice to see the Minimib language on the chalkboard. When we made the alphabet for the Minimib language we did our best to get it right, but the proof of the pudding is when children learn to read and write and spell using the alphabet. We are excited to think that soon the Minimib New Testaments will be used in the classrooms, and the students will also soon be able to read it themselves.
Meantime we are working intensively with Lukson trying to get the spelling of the very interesting and complicated Haruai language consistent before the New Testament is published. The language has many features that are very unusual and some aspects of the spelling are very hard to decide. As soon as this process is completed we will print out the Haruai New Testament again and continue with other aspects of the polishing process.
Meantime we will have another Training Course for new teachers at Dusin starting 4th May. We have been asked to start more new schools but we do not have enough teachers. Please keep the translation work and all who are involved in the schools, including those attending the course, in your prayers.
In His Love and Grace, Pastor John and Maila
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| MISSION SUPPORT NEEDED |
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| Our sister congregation, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Ridgewood, NJ, is sponsoring a mission trip to Alaska for 30-40 of their members. They will be doing hands-on construction/repair/maintenance work in a Christian camp and also helping the elderly in a local village to prepare their homes and themselves for the hard winter. We (SHLC) have been invited to pray for the mission and team, and asked to help with financial sponsorship. Gifts large or small may be sent to Susan Cinquegrana, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 155 Linwood Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ, 07450. |
| CHURCH WEBSITE UPDATE |
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| SERMONS
If you missed last week's sermon or would like to listen to it again, go to www.shlc.net and click on the icon which looks like the one above. A link is also available to download the necessary software.
SCHEDULES
Can't remember if you are scheduled to serve this Sunday? Go to www.shlc.net, click on "Members Only", enter the user name and password which you will receive under separate cover via e-mail.
CHURCH PHOTO DIRECTORY
Need member contact information? After May 1st, go to www. shlc.net, click on "Members Only", enter the user name and password which you will receive under separate cover via e-mail. |
| SIMPLY GIVING |
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ELECTRONIC GIVING
Open your heart without opening your checkbook.
Electronic Giving is an easier, more secure way to make your tithes/offerings to our church through automatic giving.
Reasons to sign up for Electronic Giving:
- No need to write checks or bring cash to church
- Peace-of-mind knowing that the church is receiving your contribution even if you are unable to attend
- More secure than checks
- All tithes/offerings are recorded for you on your bank statement with date of settlement
- It costs you nothing!
To participate, simply complete a "Member Enrollment and Authorization Form" and return it to Cheryl Delgado in the church office. If you need a form please contact Cheryl at 908-766-2858 or cheryl. |
| SERVE THE LORD DURING WORSHIP! |
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We need people to help the team that creates slides and runs the projector every Sunday. Training is provided and you will only need to serve once a month - plus we'll work around your schedule. If interested, contact Daniel Fenco at daniel. These are our openings:
Projectionist - Run the projector during
Worship Service.
Slide Creators - Create the slides with
Powerpoint from home.
Camera men/women - Video record Worship
Service, and Special
Events.
Audio men/women - check sound during
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| BIBLE STUDIES |
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There are currently five Bible Studies at SHLC, and all are invited to come and participate in them. Please plan to join us as often us possible. You will enjoy the fellowship and discussion as we all grow together in our love and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and His work on our behalf!
SUNDAY MORNING - ADULT: we are studying the Gospel of John on Sunday mornings from 11 am - noon in the church conference room. The first three Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) elucidate similar and complimentary views of His Life among us as the God/Man. The fourth Gospel, John's, completes the picture by focusing on His life as the Son of God - our Redeemer. Info needed? Call Julius Rakus at 908-253-0228 or Ken Powers 908-464-9349.
WOMEN'S WEDNESDAY MORNING: We are still studying "Angels in the Bible". Please join us from 10:00-11:00 am in the church conference room. Info needed? Contact Marilyn Becker at 732-356-2881.
WEDNESDAY EVENING: Our topic of discussion is "The Holy Spirit in Our Lives". Please join us from 7-8 pm in the conference room. Info needed? Contact Joyce Millhagen at 908-647-3097.
THURSDAY AFTERNOON: Our topic of study is 2 Thessolonians. We meet on Thursday afternoons from 1:30 - 2:30 pm at the Sparlings (11 Holly Drive, Morris Plains). Info needed? Contact Pastor Sparling at 973-538-2704.
FRIDAY EVENING: Our topic of study is the Gospel of John. We meet every two weeks on Friday night at 7:00 pm in different homes. For the date and location of the next meeting contact Russ Baccaglini at 973-539-7930. |
| SMALL GROUPS |
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What is a small group?
How easy it is for us to lose closeness with one another in our church family! Would you like to experience a closer Christian friendship? Each of our small group gatherings begin by catching up and visiting over snacks, followed by our timely discussions. In honor of people's time, we try to end at 9:00 pm, but always have a "caring time" afterwards. We always have an empty chair to encourage us to invite newcomers. There is a place for you! We would love for YOU to join us.
Monday (2nd & 4th): 7 pm. Info needed? Contact Bill Vreeland at 908-221-1779 or bill vreeland.
Tuesday (2nd & 4th): 7pm. The group is discussing "The Christian in a Postmodern World". Info needed? contact Julius Rakus at 908-253-0228 or julius rakus.
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| WOMEN'S GUILD/LWML |
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A. On March 28, Redeemer Lutheran Church
in Sparta held a Women's Bible Study
Brunch. Pastor Diamond's wife, Kathy led
the discussion which included Gideon's
story - How circumstances change when the
Lord intervenes. What we perceive may not
be the reasonable, logical outcome of a
situation. Hope in the Lord. The 30+ group
discussed present day situations concerning
family, occupation, community. The Bible
study is on the bulletin board. Feel free to
make a copy for yourself.
B. St. John's Lutheran church, Clifton held their
zone Rally. Pastor Eric Ziegler and his wife
Joannie offered a delicious supper and the
speaker was Marie Christianson, a bank
security officer, involved with i.d. theft, fraud
etc. Different realistic scenarios were
discussed. Millions of people have been
victimized. An information pamphlet is on the
bulletin board-you can copy down the
websites.
C. Our Church is the host for the Autumn Rally
in October. Suggestions, ideas are invited.
D. May 30-Crane's Mill Gathering is about Estate Planning. Details are posted.
E. The mite collection is behind by approx.
$75,000-district figures. Some of the projects
will be postponed.
F. I will be attending the Portand, Oregon
convention in June.
submitted by Julia Sabella | |
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SOMERSET HILLS LUTHERAN CHURCH |
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350 Lake Road
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Phone: 908-766-2858
Pastor
The Rev. Robert Kuppler
(h) 908-604-2425
(c) 908-531-7266
Church Administrator
Cheryl Delgado
908-766-2858
Office Assistant
Carol Ekholm
908-766-2858
Music Director
Heitor Caballero
718-796-0350
Education &Youth Ministry
Becky Johnsen
908-892-0946
Christian Preschool
Martha Gilmore, Director
908-766-1430
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| NEXT NEWSLETTER DEADLINE |
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The deadline for the next issue of the newsletter is Sunday, May 17th. Please send all articles to Cheryl or drop them off in the office. |
| CONGREGATIONAL MEETING |
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May 31, 2009
Following Worship
AGENDA
Ministry Team Updates
Elections of Officers and
Ministry Team Members
Suggested amendment to the Constitution
2009-2010 Budget Approval
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| NEW CHURCH PHOTO DIRECTORY |
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Color copies of the new church directory are being distributed - one per family. Additional copies my be downloaded from the website(www.shlc.net) or you may request a black and white copy from the church office. Please see Cheryl to obtain your color copy.
The user name and password for the online version of the directory was e-mailed to all members in late April. Please contact Cheryl if you did not receive this information. |
| GOLF OUTING |
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Save Thursday, May 14th for the 5th annual "Mission Classic" Golf Outing, of our New Jersey District, Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, to support new mission starts in NJ.
Last year, SHLC had at least 4 foursomes, and a grand time was had by all. The Mission Classic will be held at Heron Glen Golf Course, Ringoes, NJ. Cost is $160. Sponsors are also being sought. Call Judie/Gary Crawford (908-647-8082) to reserve your spot, or for a brochure, or speak to Pastor Bob about being a sponsor. |
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ALTAR FLOWERS |
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The Altar Guild continues to provide flowers each week throughout the year. The 2009 flower chart is hanging in the hallway by the library. Please consider signing up for a date. It's a great way to celebrate a special event in your life or to remember a loved one. Directions are posted. Info? Call Joyce Millhagen at 908-647-3097.
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| OUTDOOR SIGN HELP NEEDED |
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Want to help at church but haven't much time? Got small kids learning to spell? Have we got a job for you! Our church sign, located on the front lawn, needs to be updated seasonally. This is a great opportunity for your family to serve at church together, and can be completed at your convenience. It's easy, fun and helps to keep the community at large informed about what's going on at SHLC. For more information, contact Melanie Richards at 908-204-9638, or Melanie.
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| THANK YOU! |
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Greetings!
Thank you for the opportunity to serve the Lord. Your contribution to Pastoral Leadership Institute (PLI) has given us the tools that equip us to serve the Lord. We appreciate you!
In his name,
Nancy & Ricky Adams |
| QUILTERS MEET |
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The SHLC Quilters have been making quilts for Lutheran World Relief since March 1999. During that time they have sent more than 60 quilts to LWR. That's a lot of cutting and stitching.
If you want to join us, we will be meeting May 8th and 22nd @ 9:30 am in the room by the water fountain.
NEEDED BY THE QUILTERS: Sheets - flat, double, or queen/king - all colors. Place in the box near the Mite Box table. We can also use any color sewing thread and/or embroidery floss. Thank you! |
| FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY |
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Many thanks for your generous donations to the food bank. Your continued support is appreciated by the many hungry people in Somerset County.
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| CHOIR REHEARSALS |
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NO CHOIR REHEARSALS MAY 7TH & 14TH. REHEARSALS WILL RESUME MAY 21ST.
CHILDREN'S CHOIR rehearsal is Thursday evenings from 4:15 - 5:00 pm for those in Kindergarten through grade 4.
ADULT CHOIR rehearsal is Thursday evenings from 7:30 - 9:00 pm.
HANDBELL CHOIR rehearsal is Thursday evenings from 6:30 - 7:25 pm for all ages. |
| USHERS NEEDED |
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We are looking for people who are willing to serve as an usher, once a month, on Sunday mornings. Responsibilities include distributing bulletins, ensuring seating for attendees, collecting tithes and offerings, assisting with the flow of people during communion and straightening up the Sanctuary following worship. If you would like to help, please contact the church office at 908-766-2858 or cheryl. |
| MAY BIRTHDAYS |
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5/1 - Clayton Seker
5/2 - Josh Rickert
5/3 - Tori Rosenthal
5/7 - John Kunna
5/8 - Elizabeth Sahadi
Eric Sombers
5/12 - Jackie Forsberg
5/13 - Adam Meiner
5/16 - Zach Fischl
Sally Sparling
5/17 - Matt Meyers
Christy Ndem
Liz White
Stefan White
5/18 - Bob Janusz
Mary Kate Noelke
5/19 - Amanda Bringewatt
Paul Kucerka
5/21 - Janet Knell
5/23 - Thomas Balla
Gloria Spock
Ryan Ward
5/24 - Declan Kurdyla
5/25 - Jordan Geiger
5/26 - Angelika DeMarchi
Bob Kirczow
Ingeborg von
Reventlow
5/27 - Chad Kokenge
5/29 - Pat Fordyce
Ann Powers
5/30 - Kara von
Reventlow
We are sorry if we have omitted a member's birthday. Please contact cheryl or call the church office at 908-766-2858 to let us know your birth date, and we will be sure to include you in future issues. |
| MAY ANNIVERSARIES |
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5/19 - Zaida & Timothy
Harrison
5/20 - Suzanne & Bob Fischl
5/25 - Evelyn & Jack Pankuch
5/28 - Samantha & Jeff Plum
Carol & Brian Wieber
We are sorry if we have omitted an anniversary. Please contact cheryl or call the church office at 908-766-2858 to let us know your anniversary, and we will be sure to include you in future issues. | |
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