"NEWS AND NOTES"
OF
November 2009 |
| FROM PASTOR BOB KUPPLER... |
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What follows is from our church "blog" http://shlc.net/blog/ - a place
where anyone can go to write, share their thoughts, respond to some-
one else's writings, or just comment on "the day." What a great place
to browse through...and stay awhile...so that we can be encouraged,
challenged, or chat with one another about things that really matter.
Thanks, Melanie Richards, for sharing your thoughts and experiences
with any and all who happen by...
"Are my priorities right?
The question confronted me several years ago on a beach vacation. I had decided to use some precious moments of solitude to wade deeper into God's Word. It had been awhile since I'd done more than crack the cover of my study Bible, and I was desperately craving the only thing that has ever really satisfied me. Opening to the Psalms, I found the perfect passage for some quiet meditation in number 104:
"How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you made them all...There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number..."
Like a fresh ocean breeze, the words swept through my soul. As I read the whole Psalm over and over, it seemed to take on a kind of rhythm, like the waves washing in and out on the shore. My big, powerful God - who creates, orders and cares for all things - seemed right there before me, shrinking all other aspects of my life back into their proper perspective.
One little Psalm. That's all it took. How is it that I had forgotten?
God's certainly created me, and I could count blessings all day long to prove that He cares for me. The problem is in the ordering of things.
How quickly I go from doing things with Him, to doing things for Him, to doing things despite Him. Like the ocean rip current, the tide of life pulls at me and I drift away.
The first thing my daughters do on vacation mornings is look for me in the beach house. I'd like to think this isn't just because they want breakfast! Finding me gives them a sense of security: mom's in charge, she remembers that breakfast comes first and she's got the resources and the power to make it.
Jesus said we are to be like children. The first thing I need to do every day is find Him, in His Word. My days loom large. I need Him to order them. I need to remember that He's greater, that He's got the resources and power, that He is all I need."
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SUNDAY SCHEDULE FOR NOVEMBER 2009 |
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November 1st - The Festival of All Saints'
"The Way Christians Live"
9:30 am: Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:50 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am: Sunday School Classes
11 am - noon: Holy Communion Preparation Class
Nov. 8th - The 23rd Sunday after Pentecost
"The Widow's Mite" 9:30 am: Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children remain with their parents for the entire worship service)
Nov. 15th - The 24th Sunday after Pentecost
"The Fiery Furnace"
9:30 am: Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:50 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am: Sunday School Classes
1pm: Gentle Shepherd Christian Preschool
"Ladies Tea Party" and Fundraiser
(all SHLC invited!)
November 22nd - Christ the King Sunday
The Week of our National Thanksgiving
"Mission Sunday "
Pastor James Buckman, guest preacher
Ethnic and Urban Mission Strategist,
NJ District, LC-MS
9:30 am: Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:50 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am: Sunday School classes
November 29th - The 1st Sunday in Advent
9:30 am: Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:50 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am: Sunday School classes
December 6th - The 2nd Sunday in Advent
9:30 am: Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave for classes at 9:50 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am: Sunday School classes |
| SAMARITAN'S PURSE INTERNATIONAL RELIEF'S OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD |
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 All families are encouraged to participate in this simple hands-on mission project while focusing on the true meaning of Christmas - Jesus Christ.
Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God's love.
How to pack a Shoe Box:
Use an empty shoe box (standard size). You can wrap the box (lid separately), but wrapping is not required. Most important, pray for the child who will receive your gift.
Determine whether your gift will be for a boy or a girl, and the child's age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Use the appropriate boy/girl label which may be picked up on the display table at church or printed online at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/images/occ_art/BoyGirlLabels.pdf. Mark the correct age category on the label, and tape that label to the top of the box.
Fill the box with a variety of gifts that will bring delight to a child such as small cars, stuffed animals, kazoos, yo-yos, jump ropes, slinky's, a toothbrush, toothpaste, hard candy and lollipops (double bagged), t-shirts, gum, socks, hair clips, ball caps, etc. Do not include used or damaged items, war-related items, chocolate or food, liquids or lotions, medications or vitamins, breakable items or aerosol cans. In a separate envelope, feel free to include a note to the child and photo of yourself and your family. (If you include your name and address, the child may write back).
Please donate $7 or mroe for each shoe box you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs. You can do this online at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/indes/php/OCC/EZ_Give_Donations/ or pick up a donation envelope at the display table by the mailboxes at church. Place a rubber band around each closed shoe box and drop off at SHLC no later than November 15th.
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| SHLC PRAYER MINISTRY |
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 James 14:14 says:
"If you ask anything in my name, I will do it." With this great promise in mind, we have started a Prayer Ministry at SHLC. There are three different ways to be involved in this ministry:
Prayer Network: those who sign up for this will be divided into groups. Each group will have a leader. When a prayer request is received by the church office it will be passed on to Betty Vetter. She will then call each of the leaders and give them the prayer request. Then they will say an appropriate prayer to themselves and then call the next person on the list, etc. In a short time many prayers are being offered for the request. Prayer requests can also be given to Betty Vetter. The same procedure will happen. Pastor Bob will be informed of all prayer requests regardless if they are received by the office or by Betty.
Prayer Groups: those who can will come to SHLC to meet for approximately one hour to pray for any requests and also for any personal prayers of the group. There would be some Bible study on prayer for a few minutes. The day, time and frequency is to be determined. Hopefully, we'll be able to have two groups - one day time and one evening.
Individual prayer - these people would receive the prayer requests and then pray at home. There would be no calls or meetings.
How To Have A Prayer Said for me or someone else:
If you are interested in having a prayer said on your behalf or for someone else, complete a Prayer Request Card which may be found in the pews, and drop it in the Prayer Request Box on the credenza by the flower chart. Of course, all prayer requests would be held in confidence.
We are still in the infancy of our Prayer Ministry and would be open to any suggestions. We pray you are excited about this new ministry and that you'll sign-up for the area(s) which interest you!
For further info or to sign up via the phone, please call Betty Vetter (973-887-6027) or Russ Baccaglini (973-539-7930).
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| GENTLE SHEPHERD CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL |
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An Invitation
GSCP will be hosting a Ladies' Tea Party
in Fellowship Hall on
Sunday, November 15, 2009
at 1PM.
Holiday Boutique, Basket Raffle, Door Prize
& More...
Catered by "A Perfect Blend", there will be a delicious luncheon accompanied by a lovely selection of teas .
Tickets: $40.00 per person
If you would be interested in joining us,
please fill out the form below and place in the basket on the coat rack in the entry way.
Ladies Tea RSVP
Name _________________________________
Address________________________________
Phone _________________________________
Total amount enclosed $________
Checks should be made payable to SHLC
Please seat me with: (maximum of ten per table)
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| SHLC BIBLE STUDIES |
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There are currently three Bible Studies at SHLC, and all are invited to come and participate in them. Please plan to join us as often as possible as together we grow in the Word and in fellowship.
WEDNESDAY: We are combining our Wednesday groups, keeping evening and morning times, but providing flexibility. Meetings will be on alternate Wednesdays, one week at 10 am and the next at 7 pm. Each week we will study the Scripture readings for the coming Sunday. Check the worship folder for the current week's meeting time. Info needed? Contact Joyce Millhagen at 908-647-3097 or Marilyn Becker at 732-356-2881.
THURSDAY AFTERNOON: will meet weekly from 1:30 - 2:30 pm at the Sparling's home (11 Holly Drive, Morris Plains) to study "other religions". Info needed? Contact Pastor Sparling at 973-538-2704.
FRIDAY EVENING: will meet bi-weekly at 7 pm to study the Gospel of John. The next meeting is scheduled for 10/30 at 7 pm at Arlene and Russ Baccaglini's (3 Shelter Cove, Morris Plains). Info needed? Contact Russ Baccaglini at 973-539-7930. |
| CHOIR REHEARSALS |
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CHILDREN'S CHOIR rehearsal is held Thursday evenings from 4:15 - 5:00 pm for those in Kindergarten through grade 8.
ADULT CHOIR rehearsal is held Thursday evenings from 7:30 - 9:00 pm.
HANDBELL CHOIR rehearsal is held Thursday evenings from 6:15 - 7:25 pm for all ages.
For more information please contact Joy Elowsky following worship. |
| SMALL GROUPS |
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 WHAT IS A SMALL GROUP? How easy is it 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 begins by catching up and visiting over snacks, followed by our timely discussions. In honor of people's time, we try to end at 9 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): The group is discussing "Some Assembly Required - Instructions for an Amazing Marriage". Info needed? Contact Bill Vreeland at 908-221-1779.
Tuesday (2nd & 4th): The group will be discussing "knowing Jesus". Info needed? Contact Matthew Wessel at 908-625-5756.
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| KOBON MINISTRY UPDATE |
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 Dear Friends,
I am writing this just after making the final corrections to the book of Revelation and the Topical Index and the cover. The 671 pages of Haruai New Testament are in a stack on our bedroom floor. Why on the floor?! Earthquakes occur frequently here... 671 loose sheets of paper would take quite a bit of resorting if they fell from a table. Why the bedroom?! It's safer, and we sleep better knowing the "baby" is in the same room. The computer is in there overnight too - and yes, it's also on the floor!
The very last page we checked was the front cover. It will be green, representing life. There will be a large gold cross and the words MÖNÖ KÖMÖ. The Ö is the same sound as the 'u' in Hummer. MÖNÖ means "WORD" and KÖMÖ means "ALIVE", so together they mean "LIVING WORD." In Haruai this carries the dual meaning of the "Word which is Alive" (Hebrews 4:12 "The word of God is living and active"), and "The Word which gives Life". (Matthew 4:4 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' " John 6:68 Simon Peter answered, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.")
We are excited to think that the Haruai people will soon have God's Word in their own language. Earlier this year we celebrated the arrival of the Minimib New Testament. In 2010 for the first time the Minimib people will have the opportunity of using their 2010 calendars/reading guides to read through their New Testament in a year. Let me know if I can send you the reading guide so you can read along together with them and us. If you do I know it will be an unforgettable experience.
In His Love and Grace,
Pastor John and Maila
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| CHURCH WEBSITE UPDATE |
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BLOG
Go to shlc's blog site at http://shlc.net/blog/ to read blogs posted or write your own blog. Please subscribe and share our site with your friends.
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? Go to www. shlc.net, click on "Members Only", enter the user name and password which you have received under separate cover via e-mail. If you need this information please contact the church office. |
| 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. |
| MEET A FELLOW WORSHIPER |
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ROBERT(BOB) EDWARD SANDERS 
As promised, this month you'll get to know Bob Sanders a little better. He and his wife, Mary, joined SHLC last December.
Bob was born in Morristown and grew up in Rockaway Township, which is where he and Mary live today. A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University (both undergrad and grad), Bob is a senior accountant at AT&T in Bedminster.
Bob describes himself as a Disney kid growing up and still enjoys Walt Disney World. In addition to periodically visiting Mickey and the gang, he and Mary also enjoy visiting historical sites. He says that he especially enjoyed a recent vacation to Gettysburg where he and Mary went on a four hour car tour around the different battlefields. Another memorable trip was a tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon home. When not traveling, Bob enjoys light reading and gardening/yard work, projects around the house, and going to concerts and plays. Bob also enjoys watching sports. He is an avid N.Y. Giants and N.J. Devils fan.
Bob was originally a Methodist, but became a Lutheran when he met Mary. They began visiting SHLC a little over a year ago. Now Bob sings in the choir and plays drums in the Praise Band.
Bob describes his faith as defining his personal relationship with God. "I truly believe this is where Christians draw their source of strength from and it keeps us grounded in the Rock which is Jesus Christ, true God, to live 'Christ-like' in every aspect of our being. The Holy Spirit gives us truth and faith in the knowledge and love of God, and we respond by serving in our church and community".
Like Mary, Bob feels blessed to be a part of SHLC. "It is a blessing to be among so many active members who are all wonderful examples of Christian faith at work". So welcome Bob. Let him know how glad we are that he and Mary are here and how much we enjoy their musical talents.
Reported by Linda Vitale
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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
Music Director
Education 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 November issue is Sunday, November 15th.
Please send all articles to Cheryl or drop them off in the office. |
| CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP SERVICES UPDATE |
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From the Contemporary Team: "We've learned and experienced quite a bit leading the evening service since May, and appreciate all the people who've come out on Sunday nights to worship the Lord with us. We will now put the evening service "on hold" anticipating Faith Martin's arrival on staff and her leadership in this area of ministry. Watch for further details." |
| TOUR ISRAEL WITH SHLC! |
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Last Call! Time is running down for you to join Pastor Bob and others of our SHLC family on a 10 Day Biblical Tour of Israel, February 9 - 18th. Imagine...Ash Wednesday in Jerusalem! That is on the schedule for this Pre-Lent Spiritual journey to the "Holy Land" of Jesus and Old Testament history. There is no better way to prepare for Lent and Easter!
Among the places we'll visit are Caesarea, Megiddo, Nazareth, Cana, the Sea of Galilee, the Mt. of the Beatitudes, the Dead Sea, Masada, Qumran, the Jordan River, and the ancient walled city of Jerusalem where we can retrace the steps of the Lord Jesus from Palm Sunday through Easter. There is also an optional 3-day extension through Sinai and the Red Sea to Egypt where we will see the Pyramids and the Sphinx.
A very reasonable and affordable cost of $2297 includes everything except US and Int'l Taxes, and gratuities. Invite family, relatives, friends to join you for this spiritual experience of a lifetime. Speak to Pastor Bob for a brochure and all other information and questions. |
| LABELS FOR EDUCATION |
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ATTENTION LABEL COLLECTORS
The preschool gratefully accepts your Campbell's UPC (see example above) codes to earn equipment and supplies. Can labels are no longer accepted. Please put UPC's in the box on the coat rack. Any questions, please call Karen Gil at 908-604-4963. |
| ADULT FELLOWSHIP CHRISTMAS PARTY |
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SAVE THE DATE!!!
Come for fun, fellowship and food to Joanne Spohler's (8114 Fellowship Road, Basking Ridge) on December 5th @ 6 pm. $10 per person. Please sign up in the library area. Any questions? Call Joanne Spohler @ 908-542-1690 or Jan Pomplun @ 908-766-2315. |
| DECORATING THE SANCTUARY FOR CHRISTMAS |
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| People are needed to help decorate the Sanctuary for Christmas on Saturday, December 19th, 9 - 11 am, and again on Saturday, January 10th 9 - 11 am for undecorating. Please come and help. For additional information contact Joyce Millhagen @ 908-647-3097. |
| 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. |
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ALTAR FLOWERS |
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The Altar Guild continues to provide flowers each week throughout the year. The 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. |
| QUILTERS |
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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 75 quilts to LWR. That's a lot of cutting and stitching.
If you want to join us, we will be meeting November 13th @ 9:30 am in the room by the water fountain. |
FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY
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Grocery donations slowed down during the summer months, but people are still hungry. Think about buying a complete meal when you go to the grocery store. If you prefer, buy several of one thing each time, but make it something different next time. Needed items include: soup, canned meats, peanut butter & jelly, hot & cold cereal, and other basic staples. |
| 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. If interested, contact Daniel Fenco at jfenco@comcast.net. 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, Special Events.
Audio men/women: check sound during service. |
| WOMEN'S GUILD/LWML |
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LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF HEALTH  KITS:
Thanks to contributions from the Congregation, Gentle Shepherd Pre-school families, Drs. Baum, Nettune and Banaziak, the Girl Scouts and a $300 grant from Thrivent Financial, we were able to assemble 128 Emergency Health Care Kits for Lutheran World Relief. Girl Scout Troop 1154 and the Boy Scouts helped with the assembly.
ELECTION DAY BAKE SALE. Thrivent is supplementing the proceeds which will go to the Food Bank Network. Please bring fresh fruits, bars, snacks, baked goods to SHLC's kitchen on Sunday and Monday (11/1 & 11/2). Thank you for signing up and participating. Info? Contact Lee Delitzscher @ 908-647-4497.
THRIVENT SUPPLEMENTED PROJECT  for Comedy Night Fundraiser at Liberty Corner Firehouse on 11/7. Set up and clean-up cres are still needed for Satuday afternoon and Sunday. See Julia Sabella for more information. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will be matching the funds raised $1:$3 up to $600. For more information call Julia Sabella @ 908-630-9297.
DECEMBER 4TH: Our sisters at Redeemer are hosting a Christmas party. All are invited! Please contact Julia Sabella @ 908-630-9297 for details.
SAVE THE DATE: The women's annual  Christmas party and auction will be held Monday evening, December 7th @ 6:45 pm until ??? in the SHLC library. Please think about what you would like to make (or buy) for the auction. There will be a silent auction, with some special items being auctioned off by Marlene Bauer. We also ask everyone to bring an horsd'oeuvre or dessert. Watch for the sign-up.
THRIVENT ELECTION UPDATE: The entire slate as presented was voted in on October 25th.
LWML: Julia Sabella has been re-elected zone secretary. SHLC is the next host church for the Spring Zone Rally scheduled for April 18th. Our area includes churches in Sussex, Morris and Somerset counties. Suggestions and/or topics are welcome. Call Julia.
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| NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS |
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11/2 - Jim Becker
Gwenyth Reiss
11/3 - Markus Dickson
Daniel Hosler
11/4 - Joseph Bastante
Mike Delgado
Adam Stager
11/8 - Christian Infusino
11/10 - Melanie Richards
11/12 - Daniel Fenco
11/14 - Kenny Criddle
11/15 - Ryan Hellings
11/16 - David Wieber
11/17 - Jan Pomplun
11/18 - Norman Davis
Sophia DeMarchi
11/19 - Hazel Draper
Lea Marx
11/21 - Evelyn Pankuch
11/26 - Emma Gil
11/27 - Sarah Richards
11/28 - Carol Ekholm
Joan Meyers
Jennifer Schnarr
11/29 - Richard Kortmann
11/30 - Sharon Breslin
Chase Hanson
Sorry if we have omitted a member's birthday. Please contact 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. |
| NOVEMBER ANNIVERSARIES |
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11/3 - Ginny & Joseph Bastante
11/18 - Lisa & John Rosenthal
11/25 - Ginny & Bob Kirczow
11/30 - Kathy & Win Winter
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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| UPDATE FROM ARMY FIRST LIEUTENANT TIM KUPPLER |
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September 30, 2009
All,
Hello everyone! I hope this email finds you all well and in good health. I miss you all and wish that I could be at home this fall, my favorite time of year. I have great memories of the weather, cross country and being with my friends again at the beginning of school. I'm doing very well, although the past few days have been pretty busy. In about five days the outgoing unit will leave and my unit will be in charge of our area of operations, so we are almost done with the handover period. I'm learning so much every day about my new job, which I'm not really trained for, but familiar with, -"IA training", - advising and working with the Iraqi Army. My company (70 soldiers), got broken up by platoons. Three of the four platoons are off at different bases with different missions. My platoon remained with my battalion at our base, and all the officers from the company remained as well. This group, comprised of 26 soldiers, including 5 officers, make up our Battalion "MiTT" team, which stands for Military in Transition Team. This basically means we are the group of soldiers that trains and advises the Iraqi Security Forces (Iraqi Army, Iraqi Police, National Police). The team I'm on is strictly working with the Iraqi Army, "IA".
So for the past week or so I've been visiting all the battalions in our brigade...there are four battalions, each with a different geographic area of responsibility. Our brigade is pretty important because there is a major oil refinery that produces a majority of Iraq's oil-- there is a pipeline which the IA must protect. There is also a large power plant and fertilizer plant. Also, national elections are coming up in January so we are going to help them prepare their security plans for that event-- needless to say, our area is pretty significant due to these key parts of Iraqi infrastructure. Each officer on our team is paired with an IA counterpart on their brigade staff. I'm paired with the IA Intelligence Section, or G2. At the brigade level I work with two IA Majors, so that is interesting working with someone older than me and of higher rank. At the battaloin level, the intel officer is either a Major or Captain. But on a day to day basis I'll be working with the Majors at Brigade since the Brigade Headquarters is co-located on our base.
Their culture is very different from ours. During meetings we don't "get to business" right away, but "schmooz" for as long as needed about all topics, smoking, drinking chai tea, which is very hot and very sweet. Everyone is very friendly and receptive to help and advice from the Coalition Forces. It is important to build rapport and a strong relationship so they get to know you. A funny story-- today I also tried their coffee, which is from Turkey, very hot, almost like an espresso...you take shots less than an ounce at a time, it is so strong. It was pretty good coffee, in fact. I took the shot and gave the glass back to the soldier serving it, but he poured me another shot...so I took it and gave the glass back, but he poured another one! Finally my interpreter told me if you only hold the glass up, like I was doing, he'll fill it again...to say "enough" you have to hold the glass up and shake it, then he will take it away! Very interesting...Today I also took my "staff" with me, one Sergeant and two Soldiers from my team who will be working with me, to introduce them to the IA officers in the Intel section. They invited us for dinner, which was very nice...fresh bananas, green peppers, tomatoes, fresh, still warm pita bread and like a beef patty, almost like a breakfast sausage patty. So even though I'm very busy meeting the staffs at brigade and battalion levels, it is very interesting and pretty fun, actually. One thing I've noticed is that people are people, no matter where you are. Everyone jokes, laughs, has the same concerns about health and family. I noticed this when I visited Peru, too. Once I get to know them and settle in we will talk more about their goals, training, advising and going over how I can help do their intelligence job better.
Mark Adams, a family friend (grandson of former SHLC members Jeanne and Chuck Miller) who is deployed to Iraq also, wrote in an email back home that the IA think he is "cute" and want to take pictures with him! Similarly, in Iraq if they like you or or are friends with you they will often hold hands for a few seconds while walking and talking, even the males. It's pretty normal, similar to the kisses on the cheek that they do. Yesterday before a meeting one IA officer held the hand of the American Lieutenant I'm replacing-- so as a joke I said "I hope I can fill the shoes of my predecessor, he seemed to have done a great job working with you (ie, he had built such a positive relationship with this officer, the IA officer took his hand, I hope I can do such good work during my time here)". To my surprise, after the meeting with this officer he took my hand for a few seconds, even though he had just met me a couple hours ago! So I can empathize with Mark! It seems I made a good first impression, let's hope I don't mess it up!
Several of you have asked about the weather...I'm in north-central Iraq, in between Mosul and Baghdad, a few miles away from the Tigris River. So, it's relatively dry here, very flat...there's one "mountain range" that runs parallel to the river, but otherwise the terrain is very flat and pretty much a pure desert. I'll try to post some pictures online soon. It's still hot (90-95 degrees) during the day, not humid, and about 65 at night, which feels very cold comparatively. So the weather is actually quite pleasant this time of year.
That's basically the latest for now, please feel free to write and I'll try to answer you individually as much as I can! I do appreciate reading how you all are doing - it's a great treat!
Take care,
Tim |
| THRIVENT FINANCIAL FOR LUTHERANS ANNOUNCES CHANGES FOR 2010 |
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Thrivent Financial leaders have decided to end GivingPlus and Care in Congregations funding in 2010 in order to launch Thrivent Choice, which appeals to more of their members. Other program changes will be made for 2010 as a result of financial and industry factors and the need to reduce spending on tax-exempt programs and outreach. While Thrivent Financial remains strong and stable, they are not immune from market conditions and have adjusted their tax-exempt(or fraternal) spending accordingly. Even with the reductions, they will provide $125 million in 2010 to support tax-exempt membership programs and outreach.
Member choice will be a major component of the new Thrivent Choice program. Eligible members will be able to direct funds to Lutheran organizations they care about, including their congregation. Still under development for a spring 2010 launch, here's a preview of the two main elements of the program:
· Voting: All adult benefit and associate members will have an opportunity to vote
on how to direct charitable funding among a short list of national charities.
· Choice Dollars: Eligible benefit members will be able to direct dollars to
thousands of Lutheran non-profit organizations (all organizations enrolled in
GivingPlus can enroll in the new program) and congregations.
o Eligibility for Choice dollars is based on a member's relationship
with Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. So whether it's the
Thrivent Financial life, health or annuity products they own or their
involvement with their local Thrivent chapter, that relationship
could translate into a gift to the Lutheran institution or congregation
of their choice.
o On average, eligible members will be able to direct between $25 and
$100, though some may direct significantly more. This is
independent of the amount each member chooses to give to the same
organization as a personal donation - it's a Thrivent Financial contribution
directed by the member.
Both Voting and using Choice Dollars will be simple and easy with Thrivent Choice. Members can direct their contribution online or over the phone.
Please look for updates as the program is launched next spring. |
| SUNDAY SCHOOL NOTES FROM BECKY |
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Thursday, November 12th @ 12:00: - Moms of Teens lunch - details to follow.
Wednesday, November 18th @ 7pm - Sunday School teacher's meeting to prepare for the Christmas program. At least one member of each team should be there.
Saturday, December 19th, 11 am - noon:dress rehearsal for the Christmas program. It is imperative that all children and Sunday School teachers attend.
Sunday, December 20th @ 9:30 am - Sunday School Christmas program during worship.
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