"NEWS AND NOTES"
OF
January 2010 |
| FROM PASTOR BOB KUPPLER... |
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Just last week I read a story about a baby born after his father shipped out to serve in World War 2. There were no 1 year tours of duty back then. For almost 3 years, the boy knew only a picture of his dad. At bedtime, he and his mom would kneel beside the bed for prayer, and when they were finished, he would kiss the picture of his dad on the nightstand, and then jump into bed.
On the first wonderful night after his father returned from the war, mother, child and father knelt beside the boy's bed for prayer. After the "amen" his mom said, okay now, kiss your daddy goodnight; it's time to sleep. And the little guy got up, kissed the picture, and jumped into bed, leaving his dad on his knees with open - but empty - arms.
Something like this happens at Christmas. Too often we keep the tradition - we "kiss the picture" - but never receive the living, real God, who has come to us personally in Christ. This is why God has come to us in Jesus. God still wants to come close, very close; so close that we can rest in his intimacy, like children in their mother's arms, now and for eternity. God has come close to you in Jesus. Let him be part of your life; invite him to be close to you, to live in your heart, now and always.
Also ...
Twice within the span of 4 Sundays, unvontrollable events impacted our Sunday morning worship. On November 22nd, the power went out from 8 am - 11:30 am. None of the prepared slides or videos could be shown; no lights to see the worship folder; no organ music; no sound system to amplify the voices of the worship leaders, including our guest preacher, Ethnic and Urban Mission Strategist Pastor James Buckman. Despite no electricity in much of our town, almost 200 people worshipped the Lord, with lively and joyous singing, and most of all - the LIGHT of Christ was able to shine in our darkness.
Then again, for our Sunday December 20th worship, another Saturday night snowstorm (does it ever snow here on any other day?) dumped 8 - 10 inches of snow on all of us. But it didn't keep more than 110 of us - including 50 + children - from worshipping; it was the Sunday School Christmas Celebration, and there was much joy and enthusiasm expended in worship of the Lord.
In light of these 2 events, I thought it would be good to let you know this fact - we never cancel worship! No need to call and ask "is there worship today?" God's people will gather to worship the Lord! It may only be a few of us; it may be 110 or even 200!
Having said that, it's also good to know that we don't encourage foolish heroism...risking life or accident to make it to SHLC when the weather makes it dangerous to travel, especially up and down hills or with icy conditions. Use wisdom and discretion; and if you decide to remain home, spend a few moments in prayer and Scripture. Use a Psalm and a reading from one of the Gospels. God will bless you as you worship at home, too! | |
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OUR MERCY MISSION IN PLAINFIELD, NJ |
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8-10 inches of snow did not stop carloads of kids and adults from our annual Christmas gift-giving and Christmas caroling in downtown Plainfield on Sunday, December 20th. Several hundred brand new items (hats, gloves, socks) were distributed in about 20 minutes and there were many smiling faces and thank you's from the residents of Plainfield. It was a blessing to be able to participate. Also, thank you to Katie Gacos and her family for all their efforts and coordination. And...We're already thinking about our next project - backpacks and school supplies for school children, for distribution in August! |
| LENT BEGINS |
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| . . . with Ash Wednesday worship on February 17th. This year's theme for worship is "Living The Pass
. ionate Life." Lent worship will be at 7 pm each Wednesday, beginning Feb 17th, concluding on March 24th. Soup Suppers will not be part of this year's Lent opportunities, due to the inability to raise committed and reliable leadership for the events. |
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WORSHIP SCHEDULE FOR JANUARY |
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January 3rd - Epiphany Sunday
9:30 am - Worship with Holy Communion
"Mystery Solved"
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave at 9:45 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
January 10th - The Baptism of our Lord
9:30 am - Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave at 9:45 am)9:5
. 0 - 10:40 am Sunday School
January 17th - The Second Sunday after the Epiphany
9:30 am - Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave at 9:45 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
January 24th - The Third Sunday after the Epiphany
9:30 am - Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave at 9:45 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
January 31st - The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
9:30 am - Worship with Holy Communion
(Sunday School children begin with parents in the sanctuary and then leave at 9:45 am)
9:50 - 10:40 am Sunday School
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| SPECIAL PROJECTS IN NEED OF FUNDING |
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IT HAS BEEN MANY YEARS since some special needs an
. d projects (for our own congregation) have been placed before us as the Lord's people of SHLC. The Lord has amply provided for our needs (and wonderfully for the overseas missionaries we sponsor !!!) - through the faith-filled tithes and offerings of many...including, over the years, a goodly number of former SHLC'ers!
Now a few (relatively minor) "at home" unbudgeted needs have arisen, and we place them before you to consider as "over-and-above" offerings for the work of the Lord.
· Due to insurance risks, we've had to remove the (seldom used) concrete walkways that stretched from our 2 driveways that connected the Fellowship Hall with the Library entrance with the Sanctuary side and front entryways. Tree roots have broken and raised the concrete, creating dangerous walking conditions for all who venture out on them. Removal of the seldom used walkways was the preferred option, due to the costs involved (more than $20,000) with repair/replacement. The removal project was about $2800, and it included landscaping and seeding.
· We would like to carpet the hallway that runs alongside the sanctuary (this is the hallway that is parallel to the sanctuary, which we use to enter the sanctuary from the rear; this is where the artwork hangs). Carpet that matches the rest of the hallways and library in our building will cost about $1400.
· We wish to purchase a set of "electronic" drums for use in our contemporary worship services. The "acoustic" drums now in use belong to a member and we would like to return them. Electronic drums will allow us to regulate the sound and volume, making a more balanced musical accompaniment. More information below.
· Chancel renovation In order to better accommodate the Praise Band for contemporary worship as well as for our blended services, and in order to free up the "traffic jam" by the piano that occurs with Holy Communion, a small renovation plan is underway. The Praise Band will be permanently moved to the left side of the chancel (where the "children's lesson" currently is presented). Some minor carpentry changes will be made in order to enhance the flow of people; the door to the closet will be moved; electric and sound wiring will be rerouted away from the aisles and into the new Praise Band area; the communion rails will be more securely fastened to the floor; the 2 pews in front of the pulpit will be removed - to bring balance to the sanctuary seating and to provide additional space; the piano will be moved to the pulpit side; and the children's lesson will permanently be presented in the area where the piano now sits, allowing for video and projection of the children's lesson. In addition, new flooring will be installed in all 3 areas: the 2 areas in front of the pews, and the area where the Praise Band will be located. It is estimated that the renovation will take no more than 2 days. The cost has not yet been finalized.
Please prayerfully consider these needs, and as you are led by the Lord, and able, choose those needs that you would like to help provide, and making your check payable to SHLC, noting the project you have chosen. |
| PA-RUM-PUM-PUM-PUM! NEW DRUMS! |
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We are upgrading the contemporary worship experience with the addition of an electronic drum set. Electronic drums have the sound of acoustic drums while allowing us to better blend the sound with the band and for recordings. The Praise Team's ministry is to bring a joyful song to the Lord, who is the source of all our praise, and to His people and those who have yet to hear the Good News. With this drumset and other enhancements, we can improve the quality of music offered for praise - not for ourselves, but so that the Lord's message is conveyed most effectively. One SHLC family has committed a matching gift of $2,500 toward the purchase of the new equipment, which is halfway to our goal of $5,000. Make your check payable to SHLC noted "drums".
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| ALTAR FLOWERS |
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FLOWERS! FLOWERS!
The 2010 Flower Chart is ready and hanging in its spot in the hallway. This is a meaningful way to remember or celebrate a special date or person, at the same time helping to beautify the chancel on a Sunday.
Detailed directions are provided at the chart, or speak with Joyce Millhagen for help. A minimum donation of $25.00 is requested before or on the date you have chosen.
Thank you from the Altar Guild!
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| 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 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!
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 will study the Scripture readings for the coming Sunday. Check the worship folder for the current week's meeting time. The next meeting is January 6th at 7 pm in the conference room. Info needed? contact Joyce Millhagen at 908-647-3097 or Marilyn Becker at 732-356-2881.
THURSDAY: will meet weekly beginning on January 14th from 1:30 - 2:30 pm at the Sparling's home (11 Holly Drive, Morris Plains) to study 1 John. Info needed? contact Pastor Sparling at 973-538-2704.
FRIDAY: will meet biweekly at 7 pm to study the Gospel of John. The next meeting is scheduled for January 8th at the Palla's (24 Beech Dr., Morris Plains; 973-539-6074) Info needed? Contact Russ Baccaglini at 973-539-7930. |
| 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. |
| 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): The group is discussing "Some Assembly Required - Instructions for an Amazing Marriage". The next meeting is scheduled for January 25th at 7 pm. The location is to be determined. Info needed? Contact Bill Vreeland at 908-221-1779 or wvreeland1@aol.com.
Tuesday (2nd & 4th): The group is discussing "knowing Jesus". The next meeting is scheduled for January 12th at 7 pm. The location is to be determined. Info needed? contact Matthew Wessel at 908-625-5756 or weezyl@aol.com.
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| KOBON MINISTRY |
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 Dear Friends,
As I write this, it's been two weeks since my prostate surgery. The surgery does not seem to have produced the expected results and the surgeon says I will need more of the same surgery. At present I am waiting for
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an appointment for a second opinion. Meantime, I am taking the advice of a pastor friend and "going with the flow". At such times my mother would speak of the need for a "tonic". Well the tonic came in today's mail - all the way from PNG! It is a letter from Mark Jambal, teacher at our newest school at Tingi (or Alnangum).
Mark gives an update on various programs and projects including the Living Word Schools which he sees as the foundation for a more comprehensive educational system for his people. The next stage of this system is a Primary (Grade) School. People from the government continue to drag their feet on the Primary School. In an attempt to expedite things by facilitating transportation for teachers and school supplies, the people have taken the initiative to make an airstrip with the help of some basic tools we provided thanks to your gifts. Mark also wants to see more of the young people who have succeeded in continuing their education outside the Kobon area get further training and be involved in education in their own communities.
Mark finishes his letter by telling of another new beginning. He and Living Word School teacher Edile Laule are to be married on December 26! They will be entering 2010 as husband and wife, with hopes and dreams not only for their own future but the future of this and future generations of Kobon, Minimib and Haruai. Now how's that for a tonic to make one feel better!
May the Lord grant them, and you, a happy and successful year.
In His Love and Grace,
Pastor John and Maila
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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
Karen Lemke
908-766-2858
Contemporary Worship Leader & Youth Engager
Faith Martin
908-766-2858
Music Director
Children's Ministry
Becky Johnsen
908-892-0946
Christian Preschool
Martha Gilmore, Director
908-766-1430
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| GENTLE SHEPHERD CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL
2010-2011 REGISTRATION |
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Gentle Shepherd Christian Preschool registration for 2010-2011 is as follows:
January 11th - current church
members
January 12th - current GSCP
families
January 13th - GSCP Alumni
families
January 14th - new families
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a tour please call Martha Gilmore at 908-766-1430. |
| NEXT NEWSLETTER DEADLINE |
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The deadline for the next issue of the newsletter is Sunday, January 11th. Please send all articles to cheryl@shlc.net or drop them off in the office. |
| UNDECORATING THE SANCTUARY |
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Sanctuary "undecorating" will be on Saturday, January 9th, from 9 to 11 am. Willing workers, both men and women, are needed to help in this project. If you can help, please call Cheryl in the church office at 908-766-2858. |
| QUILTERS MEET |
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The SHLC Quilters will meet January
8th and 22nd @ 9:30 am in the room by the water fountain. Quilts
. made by the group are donated to Lutheran World Relief. |
| FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY |
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Please continue to bring your groceries in for the food bank.
Thank you.
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| CHOIR REHEARSALS |
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CHILDREN'S CHOIR rehearsal is Thursday evenings from 4:15 - 5:00 pm for those in Kindergarten through grade 8.
ADULT CHOIR rehearsal is Thursday evenings from 7:30 - 9:00 pm.
HANDBELL CHOIR
rehearsal is Thursday evenings from 6:15 - 7:25 pm for all ages. |
| 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
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| WOMEN'S GUILD MEETING/LUNCHEON |
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Wednesday, January 13th
11:30 am (following Bible
. Study)
China Pagoda Buffet
Route 22 East & Rock Avenue
Green Brook
Spouses/partners invited.
Carpooling available.
Agenda includes - Seminary Food Bank checks, etc.
Info? Contact Julia Sabella at 908-630-9297. |
| SERVE THE LORD DURING WORSHIP |
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| We need people to help the team that creates slides and fund 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 and special events.
Audio men/women: check sound during service. |
| USHERS NEEDED |
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We are looking for people who are willing to serve as an usher, once a month, on Sunday morn
. ings. 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@shlc.net. |
| JANUARY BIRTHDAYS |
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1/1 - June Feigenwinter
1/3 - Melissa Nora
1/6 - Gary Crawford
1/7 - Brian Cusack
Joy Elowsky
1/8 - Courtney Norton
1/9 - Emily Barnard
Liam Harrison
1/11 - Sari Springsteel
1/14 - Dottie Brunssen
1/16 - Edwinna Reiss
1/17 - Julia Schnarr
1/20 - Danielle Delgado
1/21 - Erica Caughron
Deborah Infusino
Dick Schuler
1/23 - Marilyn Becker
Ilmar Kalnin
Bob Noelke
Jordan Sabella
Christine Schnarr
Jake Springsteel
1/24 - Diane Noelke
1/25 - Eric Wald
Ryan Wald
1/26 - Melissa Connolly
1/27 - Nora Islinger
1/29 - Nicole Engstrom
1/30 - Lisa Funk
Alan Marx
1/31 - Ola Odedele
We are sorry if we have omitted a member's birthday. Please contact cheryl@shlc.net 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. |
| JANUARY WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES |
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1/26 - Joan & Joseph Zarnick | |
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