Immanuel Lutheran Church

Immanuel eNewsletter

April, 2012

 Happy Easter!

In This Issue
"The Ultimate Gift"
New Member Orientation
Worship News
Children's News
3:16 Middle School News
12:29 High School Youth Group
Mission
Fellowship and Meetings
Thanks
Register Immanuel eNews
Welcome Picture
Worship Times

 

Holy Week Schedule

 

April 1st, Palm Sunday

8:15 a.m. Classic Worship;

9:45 & 11:07 AM Contemporary Worship

Procession with Palms and Special Music - All

Services

 

 April 5th, Maundy Thursday

        5:30 p.m. Potluck Dinner

        6:15 p.m. Worship - "The Gift of a Perfect Day"

        Last Supper Drama and Communion

        Stripping of the Altar

 

April 6th, Good Friday        

7:00 p.m. Tenebrae Worship Service - "The Gift of Sacrificial
Love"

April 8th, Easter Sunday

8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. - Celebrative Easter

Worship - "The Ultimate Gift!", Easter Cantata -"Rise Up"

 7:30 - 10:30 a.m. Easter Breakfast

 

This would be the perfect time to invite a friend, family member, or co-worker to come with you to Immanuel for this holy season.

 

New Member Discovery Orientation

 

If you have been worshiping at Immanuel and would like information about our congregation, its ministries, or would like to become a member, join Immanuel's Pastors and Staff for our Discovery Orientation on Sunday, April 29th at 12:30 p.m. at church. A pizza lunch will be served. Please sign up on the Worship Card if you plan to attend, so we know how much pizza to order! Let us know also if you need child care during the session.

 

These sessions offer a great opportunity to learn about Immanuel's mission and values, God's Plan of Salvation, to discover how you can get involved in a variety of ministries, and to ask your questions! New members will be received on the date of their choice.

 

Church Council

 

A warm welcome to Jody Teske, Matt Dahlgren, Lynsey Fleck, and Matt Schulz to the church council! Your gift of service to our congregation is so appreciated! Thank you!

 

Congratulations to the current officers of our Church Council:

President                      Scot Hodkiewicz

Vice President               Frank Peiler

Secretary                      Lynsey Fleck

Co-Treasurer                 Ron Ganansky and Paul Sepe

 

Thank you to our officers and council members who lead with kindness, wisdom and foresight for our congregation.

 

Sunday Morning Adult Study

 

The adult Sunday School Class meets at 9:40 Sunday mornings in Pastor Mary Ann's office. On Sunday, April 15th, we will be starting a new book to complete our year on the study of Heaven. All are welcome to join us as we study "Love Wins" by Rob Bell. Any questions, please call Kate Harrod at 279-3681.

 

Haiti Mission Team

 

The Haiti mission team meets Monday, April 9th at 6:30 p.m. at Judy Huemann's home, 245 Elmwood Avenue, Lake Geneva. The team will be traveling to Haiti the week of April 25th.

 

Men's Breakfast and Bible Study

 

Men are all welcome on Sat., April 28th at 7:30 a.m. to gather at church for a delicious breakfast, and scintillating conversation about God's Word! Bring your favorite food to share for the meal - and come with a hunger to go deeper in your relationship with Christ.

 

Saturday Morning Bible Study

 

The Saturday morning Bible study group will meet at 10:00 a.m. on April 14th at Vena Bodine's home, W3020 Weaver Road, Elkhorn (723-8082).

 

Shepherds In Christ

 

Shepherds in Christ meets Tuesday, April 3rd at 7:00 p.m. at the home of Harry and Jackie Kuehl, 1342 Pleasant Street, Lake Geneva (203-5296). We will be studying Chapter 5 of "The Story". If you are interested in joining, please call Harry or Jackie for more information.

 

WORSHIP NEWS

 

Parking

 

If you park in the handicap spots, or anywhere in the parking lot, please be sure you pull your vehicle all the way forward. If you are using the handicap spot, please display the handicap sticker if it is not on your license plate. It is sometimes hard for our neighbors and the garbage trucks to maneuver in the parking lot. One neighbor has struggled to get her car out of the garage if cars are not pulled all the way forward. We appreciate your cooperation!

 

Sunday School Singers

 

The Sunday School Singers will be performing on Sunday, May 13th at the 8:15 and 9:45 a.m. service. What a blessing to hear the children sing their praises to the Lord! Special thanks to Nathan Buntrock, Emmet Schulz, Blake Lancour, Elizabeth Bunge, Camryn Lukenbill and Vincent Faul for their solos on March 25th! It is such a treasure to have our children sing their praises to the Lord!

 

Praise Team

 

Weekly rehearsals are every Wednesday at 8:00PM. The team is preparing new music and special songs for Lent and Holy Week. New vocalists are also welcome! Great job introducing the new song on March 11th-it helps keep worship fresh and innovative. Thank you for your superb leadership throughout Lent! We are so blessed by our growing instrumental section. Contact John Ivan at [email protected] if you are interested in joining the team.

 

Youth Praise Team

 

The Youth Praise Team is exploding with excitement and enthusiasm. Welcome to all our newcomers. You all did a fabulous job on March 18th. It is not too late to join our group (6th -12th grade). If you enjoy weekly rehearsals and working as a team, we encourage new faces and voices always to this ministry. The team rehearses on Wednesdays at 5:00PM throughout Lent. Starting April 11th, the time will switch to 5:30PM. Contact John Ivan with questions/concerns.

 

 Bells of Immanuel

 

Our magnificent Bells of Immanuel rehearse on Sundays, from 9:15-10:15 a.m. Wonderful job ringing on Wednesday March 14th. We will ring on Maundy Thursday (April 5). Newcomers are always encouraged to give this ministry a try. They meet in the small room on the top floor of the church. Director Ellen Hanson will show you how to ring and which part to read. Thanks to Ellen for her superb leadership!

 

Easter Cantata/Musical

 

Rehearsals for our glorious Easter musical are Wednesdays at 6:45PM (immediately following the mid-week Lent service). We also have two Sunday rehearsals, (Sun. March 25 and Sun. April 1) at 12:15PM, and a significant Dress Rehearsal on Saturday, April 7th at 10:00AM. We will perform the cantata on Easter morning (April 8th) for all three services. It promises to be an inspirational proclamation of the powerful Easter Gospel.

 

Website - www.immanuellakegeneva.org

 

Check out our website for information about the ministries at our church. If you click on the "sermons" link, you will find video links for the sermons and special events! Spread the word!

 

Our Middle School Youth

 

 

 

At Youth Quake... 
 

CHILDREN'S NEWS!

 

Just for Kids Daycare Ministry

 

Just for Kids provides morning care (6:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.), and afternoon care (3:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) for children in the Lake Geneva School District.  There are openings still available! We provide breakfast/snacks, homework help, games, crafts, and more. Stop in the office to pick up registration forms.

 

Sunday School

 

Sunday School Snacks needed! We have over 50 children who attend Sunday School each week, and our program provides juice and snacks for these kids. If you are able to provide a snack, please drop it off downstairs, or in the box marked, "Sunday School Snacks" by the backdoor. Thanks!

 

Special Thanks

 

Thank you to all our great volunteers that helped with the March Early Release Day. We want to also thank Kohl's Department Store for their continued monetary donation to our community programs.
 
Thank you to Tami Buntrock and the Sunday School Children and Teachers for singing during the 1st and 2nd Services March 25th! What an amazing gift of song to share!

 

No Sunday School Easter Sunday


 
Just a reminder, there will be no Sunday School on Sunday, April 8th. Also, Just for Kids will be closed April 2nd to April 6th for the Lake Geneva Schools Spring Break.
 

Games Needed

 

Thank you to everyone who donated toys to our Nursery Area. What a fantastic surprise for all the children! We are still looking for new or gently used games and books, and also a Barbie House and supplies. Please call Brianna (248-4211) or drop the items off in the church basement area. Thank you!

 

Easter Egg Hunt


Join us on Friday, April 6th, for our annual Easter Egg Hunt. The program runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon, and is free! We will listen to the Easter Story, color Easter Eggs, hunt for eggs, and make fun Easter Crafts. We are looking for donations of: eggs, candy(to fill eggs), snacks, juice/juice boxes, and prizes. If you would like to donate, please contact Brianna at 248-4211 or label items "Easter Egg Hunt" and drop off in the church basement. Thanks so much!
 

Parents and Tots


The next Parents and Tots Outing will be held at Veteran's Park (behind Wal-Mart) on Wednesday, April 25th. Meet us at the park around 11:30 a.m. and bring a lunch. All are welcome.

 

Sunday Morning Nursery Staff


A nurseryis provided during each service for children 5 and under in the basement. Children older than 5 years are encouraged to join their families during the church service or in Sunday School. We provide "Busy Bags" and "Grams" to help our older children stay focused during worship.

 

 

Vacation Bible School

 

 It is that time of year again to plan for Vacation Bible Camp! We are looking for volunteers to help with crafts, games, food, leadership, music and more! Each year we lead 200+ children in fun-filled lessons on our Lord! Please consider volunteering! Vacation Bible Camp is held at Immanuel July 29th - August 2nd from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. This year's theme is "Sky: God's Awesome Adventure." Watch for more information to come!


 VBS Theme 2012

 

Early Release Day

 

The next Early Release Day is set for Thursday, April 12th, from 1:30 - 3:45 PM. The school bus will drop kids off at the church for this ministry. The kids enjoy crafts, games, snacks, and more. We are always looking for volunteers to help with center activities. Please call Brianna at 248-4211 if you are interested.

 

Huge thanks to everyone who donated snacks and juice and to those who volunteered their time for our early release day in March! We are so blessed with your kindness!

 

 

 

 
 
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Prayers 

 

Serving in the military

 

Tim Sireno, Andy Sireno, Michael Ruby, Mark Ingbretson, Jimmy Flores, Knud Klingberg, Thomas Migut, Alex Novak, Cassie Puryear, Jesse Puryear, Daniel Tschida, John Allison.

 

Battling cancer

 

Kim Audetat, Ron Bachman, Brenda Backhaus, Mardi Bauman, Gary Bettisch, Martin Bishop, Jon Carlson, Chris Columb, Danny Coleman, Kathy Dalin, Dorothy Deering, Alfred Gruber, Danny Johnson, Jane Johnston, Jason Kazinski, Nick Palozzolo, Ozzie Salas, Barb Searle, Shelly Shepstone, Bob Sitze, Garvin Smith, Marty Smith, Bonnie Tiso, Shirley VandeZande, Marie Voss, Sara Wahlstedt. 

 

Health and strength

 

Mary Alderson, LaVerne Anderson, Carol Bice, Bill Binn, Sr., Grace Bunge, Thomas Cherney, Danielle Cloutier, Loretta Combs, Reva Combs, Mary Dee Connor, Ron Deering, Mamie Deluca, Megan Domalik, Stan Domalik, Tyler Eppers, Ron Erickson, June Eytcheson, Evan Fay, Susie Fleischer, Mary Fleschner, Bob Freitag, Bernice Fry, Pete Garcia, Donna Gerke, James Giese, Carolyn Hallett, Bill Harrod, Cassandra Hedges, Jim Hefty, Jonathan Hibbard, Doug Hitz, Tony Huml, Mark Ingbretson, Norris Ingbretson, Morgan Johnson, Ruth Johnson, Johnalee Kawalec, Herman Keisler, Sgt. Zachary Knud Klingberg, Jeff Kohl, Mildred Kwiatkowski, Jean Laack, David Leach, Don Ledenbach, Ruth Lenon, Brian Long, Mary Rose Long, Muriel Madaus, Howard Madsen, Tiffany Majors, Craig Middleton, Lori Miller, Larry Moe, Tom Mol, Dean Nelson, Jeremy Nelson, Wesley Nixon, Dean Noble, Carol Nocek, Carrie Novak, Greere O'Donnell, Joel Ortiz, Patricia Owen, Eldon Peacock, Dan Peterson, Mary Plunkett, Lydia Polek, Lucee Pond, Paul Portwich, Bill Schulz, Rebecca Schulz, Helen Swan-Hapke, Rick Sylvester, Al Szumanski, Gina Torbeck, Mark Trimazo, Elaine Vorpagel, Laura Wagner, Jennifer and Eric Weber, Doug and Sandy Wilson, Jeff Wilson, Colleen Wysocki.

 

In Hospice Care

  

Eldon Peacock and Bill Schulz

 

Expecting a child

 

Jessica Beaudet, Liz Ehlert, Tiffany Erbentraut, Cathy Peterie, Jill Peters.

 

Surgeries and Recovering

 

Lynn Gerlitz, Ken Hanson, Mary Rose Long.

Sympathy

 

 

+The family of Beth White in the loss of her niece's boyfriend who died to Christ on February 25th.

 

+Nickie Freitag, sister-in-law of Linda McWherter, died to Christ on February 26th.

 

+Jeanette Kreutzer, mother of Amy Faul, died to Christ on February 27th.

  

+Ozzie Teegen died to Christ on February 28th.

 

+Dick Scott, friend of John and Carolyn Warfield, died to Christ on March 1st.

 

+Dee Carter, mother of Aimee Yakes, died to Christ on March 2nd.

 

+Lori Sobzak, sister-in-law of Kim Hetz, died to Christ on March 8th.

 

+Ruth Conell died to Christ on March 8th. 

 

+Dorothy Bollwahn, aunt of John Bollwahn, died to Christ on March 15th.

 

+Michelle Watke died to Christ on March 15th.

 

+Mother of Mark Herich's girlfriend, Pam, died to Christ on March 22nd.

 

+Evelyn, sister of Shirley Broihahn, died to Christ on March 24th 

 

 

 

 

 

Congratulations!

 

+Congratulations to the Badger High School's Boys Bowling Team, who tied 1st in District, including Zach Belanus, Al Crisman, John Guske. John and Zack are in the top 6 of the District and competed individually! John Guske was 31st in the State Bowling tournament, which was the best in our district! We are so proud of John, Al and Zach!

 

+Congratulations to Jeremy Nelson, and his hockey team for winning State! Awesome!!

 

+Congratulations - 18 boys crossed over from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts at the Blue and Gold banquet on February 25th!

 

+Congratulations to Riely Mikrut , Dani Neuman and the Badger Culinary Team getting 2nd in state! Congratulations to Dani Neuman who won a gold medal at regionals in baking.

 

+Congratulations to Director of Bands at Badger High School, Greg Bunge and the 2012 Badger Jazz Ensemble who have been selected as one of the TOP 15 Jazz Ensembles in the NATION. The Badger Jazz Ensemble will compete in New York City May 4-6. They will work with Wynton Marsalias and ALL the members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. A CD was submitted for evaluation - 1,700 application packets were sent in September to bands in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and a few European schools. WOW TOP 15!!! Two other Wisconsin bands will also make the trip...Beloit Memorial and Eau Claire North. IF our band places in the top three while in New York, we would perform the final concern with Wynton Marsalias as the guest! How cool! Stay tuned for special concert and benefit opportunities!

 

+Congratulations to Coaches Dave Jooss and Tom Jooss, to players Annie Gaugert, Tristan Sproul and the Badger Girls' Varsity Basketball team on winning Conference!

 

+Congratulations to Ben Larwa who is heading to Hong Kong for a semester of studies through the Carlson School of Business at the University of Minnesota!

 

+Congratulations to Clay Wahlstedt and the Destination Imagination team taking 1st place! They got top honor of a DaVinci Medal for Clay's invention of a three-wheeled forklift.

 

+Congratulations to Adam Boales and his fianc�, Sarah Murphy, on their engagement!

 

+Congratulations to Josh Cruz Schmidt who is officially adopted into the Schmidt family! Congratulations to the whole family!

 

Births

   

+Congratulations to Yvonne Mol on the birth of her great-grandson, Jaxen Lee, on March 2nd!

 

+Congratulations to Andy and Stacy Smith on the birth of their daughter, Kinlee Kalena, on March 20th! She was a healthy 8 lbs. and 21.5" long; absolutely gorgeous!

 

+Congratulations to Dennis and M.J. Lyon on the birth of their granddaughter, Amelia Grace Moscati, on March 15th.

New Members

 

A warm welcome to our new members! They may have been listed in last month's newsletter, but we have added some personal information about our new members! 

 

Scott Cunningham

60 Johnson Terrace

Williams Bay, WI 53191

262-203-4048

 

Scott is a financial consultant. You probably know Scott as he has been ushering at the 8:15 and 9:45 a.m. services!

 

Rob, Georgene, Trevor, Ian and Luke Darbro

W1220 Beechwood Road

PO Box 492

Pell Lake, WI 53157

262-279-3305

 

Rob works at Burris Equipment in Waukegan, IL. Georgene loves to watch children, clean houses and make scrapbooks, invites and cards! Trevor is a freshman at Badger. Ian is in 7th grade and Luke is in 6th grade. Welcome to the Darbro family!

 

Brad, Ellen, Sydney and Lynsey Gulbrandson

5469 371st Avenue

Burlington, WI 53105

262-537-2130

 

 

Ellen is a RN at Wheaton Franciscan Health Care, All Saints Hospital in Racine.  Brad is the Director of Retail Vertical Markets for Johnson Control.  Sydney is 11 and Lyndsey is 9!

Ed and Laura McDonough

N480 Armsby Road

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

262-275-6906

 

They have two grown sons (27 & 24) that live in Milwaukee. One is a police officer. Laura is a stay at home mom and is rehabbing their home. Ed works for Daz, a computer consulting firm in California.

 

Georgia Owens

869 Sweetbriar Drive

Elkhorn, WI 53121

 

Georgia is married, has 3 grown children, 4 grandkids and a great-grandson! She is a Clinical Nurse Specialist at Lakeland.

 

3:16 MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS!

 

Confirmation Class meets on Sundays in the Youth Room during the Middle (9:45) service. The curriculum includes: the Old Testament, New Testament and Luther's Catechism. Middle Schooler's are growing their faith and preparing for the Right of Confirmation held in the fall of their 9th grade year. This class is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th Graders. New kids are welcome anytime! NOTE: There is no Confirmation Class on the 1st Sunday of every month so that all students can attend worship with their families.

 

April 1st: Reminder: NO Class, Confirmands attend WORSHIP WITH THEIR FAMILIES :)

 

6th, 7th, and 8th Grade "3:16" Middle School Youth Group meets every Wednesday night in the Youth Room of Immanuel (3rd floor) from 6:30 - 8:00pm. We're learning about the Bible and how it applies to our lives while studying THE STORY as part of our church wide study. We watch a video, play games, sing, have small groups, hang out, and have a blast! We welcome everyone and love meeting new friends. Please come be part of the fun, and feel free to bring your friends along too!

 

April 4th - April 5th: Spring Break LOCK IN for Middle School Youth Group from 8:00pm - 8:00am. Come to Youth Group on Wednesday night during Spring Break and be "Locked In" the church for hours of FUN, and stay until the next morning! Movies, games, food, friends, FUN! Attend Youth Group March 28th to get the scoop and sign up.

 

 12:29 HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP

 

We are so excited to be a part of the church-wide Bible study...and to offer two different nights for our high school students:

 

On Sunday nights from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. we will meet at church in the youth room. We are excited to have this be a student led group (an adult leader will be on hand for any questions, insight/input that may be needed).  There is no youth group on Sunday, April 1st or 8th.

 

On Wednesday nights from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. we will meet at the Hibbard home, W1161 Trieste Drive, Lake Geneva (248-1782).  There is no youth group on Wednesday, April 4th.

 

Both groups will be studying "The Story", so if you can't make one night, maybe the other night will work. For the final Wednesday in Lent, March 28th, the group will meet at 7:15 p.m. to allow time to come from the worship service. We can carpool to save the parents a trip out. They would just have to pick up at 8:30.

 

High School Seniors and Parents/Guardians: Every year at graduation, we present the graduates with beautiful handmade quilts. We need to know how many teens are graduating so the wonderful quilters can start sewing! Please call the office at 248-4211 with your graduate's name, when graduating (December or May) and if he/she knows what college they are attending.

 

High School Mission Trip

 

We are so excited to be heading to Crown Point, New Mexico to work with the Navajo Nation and Next Step Ministries. The dates are July 15th - 22nd, give or take a day of travel as the plans are still in the works.

 

If you would like to support our youth with a monetary contribution, please make checks payable to Immanuel Lutheran Church and on the memo line write "Youth Mission Trip" and the name of the person you would like to sponsor or blank for a general donation. Thank you!!!

 

Envelope Fundraiser

 

We have started an "envelope fundraiser"! Check out the bulletin board with envelopes numbered 1-144. Each number represents a dollar amount; for instance, if the envelope is marked 100, you would donate $100.00 if that is the envelope you choose.   If each envelope is filled with the amount written on it, we will raise $10,000 for our mission trip! The envelope is addressed if you would like to mail it to us, or you can put it in the offering plate. Thank you so much for helping us raise funds so that we can make a difference in another community.

 MISSION

 

Blood Drive Dates for 2012

 

Mark your calendars for the 2012 blood drives: Monday, April 9th (please note the dated changed to accommodate another location making way for more donors!) and Monday, October 15th from 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. If you would like to self-register online and schedule a preferred time, please use this link: www.bcw.edu/ImmanuelLutheran. Share the gift of life with someone by donating blood.

 

Bone Marrow Donor Drive

 

Marrow transplant patients need your support right now. 10,000 patients need a marrow transplant. Only half receive one. Half is not enough. Over 70% of the time a donation can be made by giving blood; about 30% need the needle in the hip technique. Our beloved Scot Hodkiewicz will be informing us how each one of us can become a bone marrow donor! Join us on Sunday, May 6th, when a specialist will be here with forms to fill out and to draw a blood sample from potential donors.

 

Card Ministry

 

Our Card Ministry will gather on Thursday, April 19th at 6:30 p.m. at church. This fabulous group makes greeting cards to encourage folks who are ill, hospitalized, or grieving. All are welcome - and there is no cost to participate!

 

Material Needed for Quilters

 

Wanted - Any old, clean, used sheets and unused cotton fabric. Please donate for the Tuesday Quilters.

 

Cookie Ministry

 

The next cookie ministry date is Friday, April 13th at 8:30 a.m. at church. Anyone is welcome to join in on this ministry. Please bring a batch or two of cookies baked in a disposable container to the kitchen at church. Thank you to all who participate in this ministry!

 

St. Vincent/DePaul Meal Program (Milwaukee Soup Kitchen)

 

Our next service to the Soup Kitchen is May 20th. It would be great to see our youth return to this service. They've always been great ministers to the people. Special thanks to Tammie Carstensen for the cozy blankets she donated to the Soup Kitchen.

 

Side By Side Screening

 

Side By Side screeningis the 3rd Tuesday of each month, April 17th, at 7:00 p.m. at the First Congregational UCC Church, 715 Wisconsin Street, Lake Geneva. Funds are available for rental assistance, utilities and prescription medicines. Applicants must reside in the Lake Geneva School District. Bring a copy of the bill you need help paying.

 

Health Newsletter

 

"Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." 1 Corinthians 5:*
 
      

In this month's health newsletter, Parish Nurse, Karen Stein, addresses GERD - Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease. For more information or to see the whole article, please check out Karen's newsletter at www.immanuellakegeneva.org and click on "April Health Newsletter". Copies are available at church.

 

Donations for Needy Families

 

We have a number of families struggling to feed themselves. We welcome contributions for the purchase of grocery gift cards. Please mark your check "grocery gift cards" in the memo line. Thanks for making a difference!

                                     

Quilters Welcome!

 

Come join us on Wednesday mornings with our Quilting Ministry! This group of devoted women makes quilts for the newly baptized, our high school graduates, and for those over 80. They meet at 9 a.m. each Wednesday in the basement of the church. If you prefer to make quilt tops at home, the group will quilt them here at church. Jobs are available both for those who sew and for those who do not!

 

Partnership with Puerto Rico

 

We are so excited for our partnership with Iglesia Evangelica Luterana Si�n in Bayamon, Puerto Rico! Watch for information as we start planning our first mission trip to our sister congregation. If you would like to be a part of the initial planning team, please contact the office.

 

Haiti Orphanage

 

Even though it has been almost two years since a deadly earthquake ravaged Haiti, countless Haitian children remain homeless and live in the streets. There is literally no room for them anywhere. Haitian missionary, Gigi Polycarp, is answering God's call to build Bethlehem Home in Jeremie, Haiti. It will be a safe haven for ten Haitian orphan girls. While the shell of the house is constructed, Gigi has asked our team to build a bathroom and an outdoor, covered kitchen with a fire pit.

 

We have a Mission Team going to Haiti April 24th - May 1st, to help with construction and other needs. Jeremie is on the opposite end of the island from Port au Prince. Team members include Todd Huemann, Kris Longhorn-Keyes, Rhonda Perkins, Laurel and Matt Schulz, and Pastor Mary Ann.

 

Financial gifts to create "a home" for these 10 orphans would be a truly life-giving gift. Please make checks out to Immanuel, and mark them "Bethlehem Home."

 

First Love Mission Trip to Kenya

 

Join us on our short-term team ministry trip to Kenya scheduled for June 9 - 24, 2012. The Kenya Summer 2012 team will focus on continued construction projects on the First Love Kenya Children's Home property in Nairobi, the Kids Clubs at Raila Educational Center located in the Kibera Slum and medical ministry. The cost for this 2 week ministry trip is approximately $3,650 per person. This price includes airfare, lodging, food, cost of visa, and a donation towards the cost of materials used in construction and Kids Clubs. There is also an optional 2 day safari which you could avail yourself of for an additional cost of approximately $925 per person. This optional safari will take place during the middle of the ministry trip, June 16-18. If you are interested, please contact Tom and Linda Clinton at [email protected]

 

We Care Program at Sentry

 

The We Care program is still available at Sentry. If you buy your groceries at Sentry, please ask for the "We Care" sticker on your receipt and turn the receipt in to church. The funds raised help support the card, cookie, and prayer shawl ministries.

 

Alanon Meetings

 

Monday at 6:30 PM. - in Junker Lounge just off the kitchen in the basement.

  

AA Meetings

 

Sundays at 3:45 PM; Mondays and Wednesdays at 8:00 PM. - in Junker Lounge just off the kitchen in the basement.

 

Coupons for Servicemen and Women

 

Servicemen can use all coupons (except restaurant and store specific). Coupons are good for 6 months past the expiration date. If possible, please cut them out before you bring them in. Thank you from Mary Rose Long and the American Legion Auxiliary.

 

WC Food Pantry

 

The WC Food Pantry is open Wednesdays from 1:00-5:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM, on the corner of Highway H North and Hwy. NN. WC would like to request large bottles of laundry detergent that they will break down into smaller containers and dish soap.If you have any questions or would like to request a pickup, please call Norma Nelson, 279-9698, or 614-595-8681. Thank you for your help.

 

The Lake Geneva Food Pantry

 

The Lake Geneva Food Pantryis open Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9:00 - 11:30 AM at First Congregational Church, 715 Wisconsin Street. Recommended Shopping List for the Pantry:  Canned Soup, Macaroni and Cheese, Breakfast Cereal, Canned Vegetables, Crackers, Flour , Sugar, Juice, Canned Fruit, Stuffing Mix, Pasta, Spaghetti Sauce, Canned Dinners, Boxed Dinners, Laundry Detergent, Bath Soap, Deodorant, Toothpaste, Shampoo, Toilet Paper.

 

Cub Scout Fish Fry!

 

Mark your calendar for Friday, April 13th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at church for the Cub Scout Fish Fry! Menu: Fried and baked fish, potato, coleslaw, rolls, dessert, tea, coffee, water and lemonade. $8.00 for adults, children 10 and under $5.00. All profits benefit our local Cub Scouts!

 

Walworth County Emergency Homeless Shelter

 

The traveling homeless shelter for men will be at Chapel on the Hill the week of May 20-26. We partner with the Chapel by making and/or serving dinner and breakfasts and by having men staff the shelter overnight. Men who can stay overnight are desperately needed. If you can help in any way, please sign up on the Worship Card, or call Jeanie at Chapel on the Hill 245-9122 for more information. Thanks!

 

Agape House

 

Agape House has been blessed with the gift of "hundreds" of formal dresses in all sizes and for all occasions. We will share this blessing with all for a minimum donation of $20.00 for each new dress! The sale will take place at Agape House in the Gym at 215 S. Main Street, Walworth at the following times: Friday, March 30th - 2:00 to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, March 31st - 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and Sunday, April 1st - 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Shop, have fun, and help bless this important community ministry. "...to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes...a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." Isaiah 61:3

 

 

Zach Harrod

 

For up-to-date information on Zach Harrod and his mission work in Prague, check out www.zachharrod.com. Zach has accepted a new role as the acting local director of Athletes in Action in Prague. Please pray for him that he would be a servant leader and care well for his staff, yet lead with energy and courage and that God would use the next 6 months to create more momentum for OUR ministry here in Prague and throughout Czech.

 

 

A Day In Time Memory Program

 

A Day In Time, Inc. is looking for caring, sensitive, patient men and women to work in our Much Needed Group Activity and Respite Program. A Day in Time provides stimulating and enjoyable activities to individuals in early to middle stages of Alzheimer's or related Dementia, and provides Respite time away for their Caregivers.   Flexible shifts are available: 9 AM-12 p.m. or 12-3:30 p.m.

 

 

Immanuel Church Garden

 

Yes, it is that time of year again! On April 15th, Mikaela Harrod and Doug Harood will have interest handouts for our members and friends. Please return the information sheet, with your name and phone number on it, to Doug or Mikaela. The garden plots are 15 yards x 15 yards. You will be contacted once the garden area is ready to plant. Call 279-3681 for additional information.

 

 

Foster Care Program

 

Want to make a permanent, lasting impact in the lives of children in your community? Have you thought about doing foster care or supporting foster parents in the work they do? Anu Family Services is hosting informational meetings in our area. Hear about how to become a foster parent or a respite provider; hear about what's involved and the benefits; hear about Anu's model and approach; Q&A with staff. On Monday, April 2nd, from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. we will hold an informational meeting at Lake Geneva Public Library, 918 W. Main Street. Other meetings available are Tuesday, April 17th, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Young Memorial Library, 431 W. Center Street, Whitewater or Tuesday, April 24th, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. at Aram Public Library, 404 E. Walworth Avenue, Delavan. For more information, please contact Shannon McCarthy at 262-742-2720. 

 

FELLOWSHIP & MEETINGS

 

WELCA Ladies Luncheon

 

The WELCA Ladies Luncheon is scheduled for Wednesday, April 4th, at 12:00 p.m. at Hawks View Golf Club, W7377 Krueger Road, Lake Geneva. Please call Lois Larson at 262-248-4535 by Tuesday, April 3rd, if you are able to attend

 

A Day In Time Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group

 

A Day In Time Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group meets on the 3rd Friday of every month, 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the upper level of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Free onsite respite available to caregivers who wish to be a part of the support group while their loved one will engage in the activity program.

 

Book Club

 

The Book Club will meet on Wednesday, March 28th at 2:00 p.m. at Arbor Village in Lake Geneva. We will review the book Killing Lincoln by Bill O'Reilly. Everyone is welcome!

 

Catalyst 2012 - Men's and Teen Boy's Conference at Calvary

 

The men's and teen boy's conference, which is aimed at helping men of all ages encounter Jesus Christ and grow as men of God in their homes, their workplaces, their social groups and their churches, will be held at Calvary Church on April 13th and 14th. Registration and other information is available online at www.calvarycommunity.net. The keynote speaker is Ken Bevel, who starred in the movie "Fireproof" and "Courageous".

Registration deadline is April 8th. Cost is $30.00 for adults and $20.00 for teens.

 

Lutheran Marriage Encounter Weekend Retreat

 

Lutheran Marriage Encounter Weekend Retreatwill be held April 20th-22nd at Hyatt Deerfield Hotel in Deerfield, IL. Check-in is 7:15 p.m. on Friday to about 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. To register online go to www.GodLovesMarriage.org and click on "How to Register". Or you can contact Jan Gerzevske at 630-294-5014.   More information is available at www.northernillinoislme.org. There is a $45 application fee.

THANKS

 

+Thank you sooo much for the Valentines card and $5. Having the support of my church is a part of my making the Dean's list with a 3.74 GPA my first semester at Whitewater. J Thank you! Allison Hetz

 

+Thank you to Don Tolar for repairing the table for the Bells and for all the other repairs you help out with at church! We are so thankful for all you do!

 

+Thank you to Mickey Tolar for all her help in reorganizing and sorting through all the "stuff" we accumulate through the years! You are amazing for seeing where things are needed and making room for more!

 

+Thank you to Mickey and Don Tolar for over 15 years of organizing the prayer chain! Christ's love shines through you in all you do! Thanks just doesn't seem enough!

 

+Thank you to Linda Burkart for organizing the Lenten Soup and Sandwich Dinners! We so appreciate all the hard work that it takes to make a dinner happen! Thank you to your helpers, Robert "Hawk" and Karen Taylor! You're all amazing!

 

+Dear Pastors, As we begin this Lenten time of reflection, we gain more appreciation of our identity and those who support us. In this spirit, Side by Side confesses its negligence in sending a timely thank you to your generous Congregation for 2011. You've always been there with monthly financial support. Where would we be without enthusiastic members for Side by Side? Immanuel sends us the cream of the crop. We love every one of them! There's a bond between all of us that rises above any doctrinal differences that at times ensnares such efforts with other groups. We credit your two Pastors with setting the tone that allows such co-operation. Our Lord must be smiling on us.

 

The year of 2011 saw growth in opportunities to serve those who came to us. We financially assisted 206 of the 269 family units who applied for help. All were guided to other appropriate resources and references. We applied $49,602 to mortgages/rent, utilities, and prescription medicines in general. Following standards that needed to be devised, we ended the year with a positive bank balance while having ministered in some way to all who petitioned Side by Side. The average grant was $240.78 per family.

 

Again, we thank you for being the generosity of Jesus to those who live in the Badger School District. To all of your congregation, who obviously understand the compassion of Christ, may your season of Lent be especially fruitful. In gratitude, Side by Side.

 

+Thank you to Jan Bice, Beth Dahlgren, Donna Hove, Susan Krinn, and Mickey Tolar for making phone call reminders to update our directory! Your gift of time and kindness to our family and friends is so greatly appreciated!

 

+Thank you to Charlie Brown for donating copies of the devotional booklet, "Men of Integrity"!

 

+Thank you to Mark McAuliffe for painting at the church! The gift of bright and fresh clean walls is such a gift! Thank you!

 

+Thank you to Joe Twist for providing us with cleaning supplies! It is such a generous gift!

 

+Dear Cookie Ministry-Thank you so much for the yummy surprise after my "feet" surgery!! Our whole family enjoyed it all. What a great ministry we have here at Immanuel! - Karrie Gibson

 

+To the Quilting Group and the Cookie Committee - Procrastination has its limits! I want to sincerely thank the quilting group for the beautiful quilt commemorating my 80th birthday. It is a real work of art and is truly appreciated. In my wildest dreams, I never expected to reach such a milestone. And then to have cookies and Christmas carols delivered (in the rain). That was over the top! I want to thank you all so very much! -Harvey (& Lois) Larson

 

+Thanks to all the cookie ministers for the tray of cookies! Very good! Your thoughtfulness means a lot to us - more than we can say - and our warm appreciation comes with this thank you note today. The Teegen family

 

+Dear Cookie Ministry, Thank you so much for donating the 6 month certificates for the Youth Dessert Auction Fundraiser. As most of you know, the youth did very well from the auction to raise the money needed to serve the Navajo Tribe in New Mexico. Thank you so much for helping them make that happen. Isn't it amazing what cookies can do? Not only do they minister to our church and community but they are also being used to help people in New Mexico. Thanks again! Love Ellen "I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints." Philemon 1:4-5

 

+Thank you to Joe Porubcan who was so kind to cut down our broken crab apple tree.

 

+To the Kitchen Ladies and to all that made food - Thanks so much for your help. A little kindness makes such a difference in a day...Your thoughtfulness certainly made a difference in mine. Thanks again. Thanks everyone for all the help. Everything was great. I needed your help. The Teegen family

 

+We would like to thank everyone that came to Ozz's funeral, and the cards, cookies, flowers and the food from everyone. We also would like to thank Pastor Mark for the beautiful service. We could not have done it without all your help. Thank you again! The Teegen Family

 

+Thank you to Donna Christensen for volunteering to take care of the pens and pew envelopes weekly. We appreciate your kind heart to serve!

 

+Thank you to Riely Mikrut and Kelsey Nocek for presenting at our worship service during Lent and for preparing the bulletins! Kelsey and Riely are shadowing Pastor Mary Ann as an intern project through Badger High School. We are so blessed to have them share their gifts with us! You're amazing!

 

+Thank you to all who have prepared meals for Sara Wahlstedt and her family during her chemo treatments. What a gift of caring and compassion for their family!

 

+Thank you to all the delicious cooks and bakers who have provided us with amazing meals during our Lenten gatherings. We have had record turnouts and delicious meals! We appreciate all the yummy food!

 

+Dear Immanuel Friends, Thank you for your thoughtful and kind card of condolence. It was a comfort to the entire family. This is a difficult time for all of us and your support in words, prayers and deed are greatly appreciated. A special note to all the wonderful bakers of the Cookie Ministry... your treats were delicious and well shared among our family! Thank you for the special delivery! Sincerely, Aimee Yakes

 

+Thanks, you really made my day...and that is for sure! Thanks for the cookies. What a nice surprise and such a nice tray full! You must know how big our family is!! Herman is doing good and glad to be home after 18 days in the hospital. God has been good to us and we are very blessed to have you at Immanuel. Thanks, Herman and Betty Keisler

 

+Special thanks to Chris Nelson, Ellen Evans, Eileen Weyrauch and Cynthia Hibbard for donating tickets so that some of our high school teen girls could attend the Revolve "Dream On" Tour in Milwaukee on March 10th.

 

+Thank you so much for the ticket to the Dream On Tour. I had so much fun and I really got a lot out of it. I also want to thank you for taking us to and from! I can't wait to go next year! Love, Tess Bakken

 

+Dear Cookie Ministry, Thank you so much for the wonderful plate of cookies you delivered to our home. They were delicious! Your kindness brightened our day and we hope you know what a blessing you all are and to everyone's lives you touch. Thank you again! -Joe and Cindy Twist

 

+Thanks to Dennis Yakes for playing lovely instrumental guitar music on Sunday, February 26th for the Healing Service. It helped create a divine atmosphere during the healing prayers!

 

+Thanks to the Praise Team for introducing new music, "Forever Reign", on March 11th. We love the forward progression and new music that keeps worship exhilarating. Thanks for your superb leadership!

 

+Thanks to the Youth Praise Team for performing (at all three services) their special song, "The Motions". It is wonderful to see our youth forming a strong foundation with God and having fun doing it!

 

+Thank you to Tammie Carstensen and Harbor Shores for donating sheets and blankets! The blankets were given to the Soup Kitchen - they were so thrilled and blessed to have warm, cozy blankets for the homeless. The Quilters are thankful for the sheets, which they will use in their quilts.

 

+Dear Don, Mickey and Friends of Immanuel, Thanks once again for your donation of blankets and candy. Both of these things put a big smile on the faces and the hearts of our meal program guests. You are a special blessing to encourage others to follow in your kind footsteps by reminding them that there are people like yourselves that will help unconditionally. Blessings, Casey and St. Vincent DePaul

 

+Thank you to Tom and Lori Hartz, Adam King and staff at Simple Caf�! The High School New Mexico Mission Team Fundraiser was a huge success because of your generosity! What a fabulous and fun staff to work with! Thank you to all who supported our mission team-you are making a difference here and in New Mexico! Thank you!! - The 2012 High School Mission Team

 

+Women of Immanuel, Thank you very much for the Valentine's Day card. It feels great to feel cared about! The money was also much appreciated. Thank you, Emily Schulz

 

+Dear Friends of Bethlehem Home, I want to say again and again thank you so much for the kind donation we received toward our cause. I truly appreciate your support of our Mission. Together we can make a difference. Together we can change the lives of the children! You are making a difference. Thanks again for your kindness and contribution. May the Lord bless you all. Respectfuly, Gigi, Polycarpe, Founder, President of Bethlehem Home

Many Blessings to You!
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