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Immanuel eNewsletter
May, 2012
Happy Mother's Day! |
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 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you." Jeremiah 29:11-13
The proposed plans for our new church building and our Grace Overflowing Groundbreaking Capital Appeal were unveiled in April! Stop by church to see the plans!
Key Dates for Grace Overflowing
Groundbreaking Appeal!
Give of your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back-given back with blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way generosity begets generosity. Luke 6:38
Friday, May 4th Day of Prayer for our Grace Overflowing
Appeal - Please stop by church anytime today to pray for Immanuel and our future. On Facebook? Check out the Grace Overflowing for Immanuel Lutheran Church Facebook page and commit to praying for Immanuel Lutheran Church as we prepare to launch our building program. Please pray with us daily that our "Grace Overflowing" efforts give glory to God and reach our community with the Good news of Jesus Christ!
Sunday, May 6th Advance Gathering at Geneva National Grand
Ballroom from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. - Want to be a pacesetting contributor in our groundbreaking appeal? You are invited!
Sunday, June 3rd Invitation-to-Prayer Sunday; Appeal
packets distributed to all households.
Sunday, June 10th Commitment Sunday - Commitments received
at worship
All-church Celebration Gathering "Sock Hop"
at the Riveria from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. The Sock Hop will feature an ice cream social, root beer floats, entertainment and much, much more! You won't want to miss the event of the year!
The Grace Overflowing Groundbreaking Appeal Leadership Team has begun its work. We thank the following individuals who have agreed to serve as leaders:
Core Group Leaders: Dan Bice, Kate Harrod, Merle Peiler, Earl Vorpagel, Pastor Mary Ann, Pastor Mark
Spiritual Emphasis Leaders - Todd Huemann, Grace Peterson
Resource Coordinators - Jayne Erickson, Yvonne Mol
Advance Group Leaders - Jim Drescher, Bobbi Gutman, Steve Hibbard, Barb Kwiatkowski
Children/Youth Leaders - Carolee Barnett, Brianna Deering, Cynthia Hibbard
Creative Arts Leaders - Jeff Bakken, Robyn Bakken, Erin Huemann
Special Event Leaders - Dan & Edith Draper, Kristin Larkin
Telephone Host Leaders - Jan Bice, Beth Dahlgren
Home Delivery - Bill & Marilyn Carr
Building Team Update
The Building Team hosted two unveiling gatherings of the proposed new building plans in April! We had great attendance and a great response! It's not too late to tell us what you think! Forms are available in the office or online at at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/QSTCTRX. Please share your thoughts with us!
Huge thanks to the building team in all that they have done and continue to do! It's an incredible task! Our awesome team includes Jerry Baker, Scott Cunningham, Nancy Daily, Jeff Erickson, Jeri Gaugert, Georgia Gehrmann, Pete Juergens, Matt Kuehl, Tom Larwa, Mark Moller-Gunderson, Vijay Narayanan, and Mickey Tolar,
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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.
Immanuel Lawn Signs
Immanuel lawn signs are available in the overflow and narthex. Please feel free to take one to post in your yard!
Sunday Morning Adult Study
The adult Sunday School Class meets at 9:40 Sunday mornings in Pastor Mary Ann's office. We are currently studying "Love Wins" by Rob Bell. All are welcome to join us! Any questions, please call Kate Harrod at 279-3681.
Haiti Mission Team
On Sunday, April 22nd, we commissioned our Haiti mission team as they left for Haiti on April 24th. The team includes Kris Keyes-Longhorn, Todd Huemann, Rhonda Perkins, Riely Mikrut, Laurel and Matt Schulz and Pastor Mary Ann. Please hold them in your prayers as they are building a home for 10 orphan girls.
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 May 19th at Loretta Frank's home, N2020 County Road H, #437, Pioneer Estates, Lake Geneva. Call Loretta for directions at 248-3059.
Shepherds In Christ
Shepherds in Christ meets Tuesday, May 1st at 7:00 p.m. at the home of Joan Dee, W4271 Oriole Lane, Lake Geneva (245-5215). We will be studying Chapter 7 of "The Story". If you are interested in joining, please call Joan for more information. |
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WORSHIP NEWS
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!
Easter Cantata
What a glorious celebration of our Savior's resurrection! Special thanks to so many that helped tremendously throughout: Bruce Reek for hours of sound help, set-up, rearranging, mixing, etc., Jaime Ivan for days of help recording, producing, making CD's, and arranging "Alive", Rick Ruby for his unfailing help with re-aiming lights and running video, Bud Patchin for designing and making our spacious new risers, Rich McWherter for helping set up so much stuff during Holy week, Don and Mickey Tolar for their help organizing and fixing odds and ends, Kathy Middleton for serving as both rehearsal and performance accompanist, Pastor Mary Ann for her exquisite narration (that she wrote) during the cantata, and each and every one of you for your role. From the altos to the xylophone, the whole ensemble united and made a glorious sound! I could not be happier with you all! Thank you for the opportunity to direct such a special event. -John Ivan
Praise Team
Immanuel is so blessed through you continued leadership of music at the contemporary services. Thanks also for leading inspiring, reflective, and celebratory music (respectively) during Holy Week!
The collaboration between vocals and instruments is truly inspiring-I personally feel blessed to be a part of.
Rehearsals are Wednesday nights at 8:00PM. We will begin learning several new pieces to introduce to the congregation in the upcoming months. Call or email me if you are interested in joining the team. - John Ivan
Bells of Immanuel
Wonderful job ringing at the Maundy Thursday service! The conclusion to worship was especially inspiring-your song set the perfect tone for Good Friday. Thanks to Ellen Hanson for her exquisite leadership! Bells rehearse Sunday mornings from 9:00AM-10:00AM upstairs. Contact Ellen Hanson or come to rehearsal-if you can count to 4, then you can join the team. :)
Youth Praise Team
Youth Praise Team sang during all three services Sunday April 22nd. It is such joy seeing our next generation praising God and having fun doing it! WOW, keep up the excellent work! Rehearsals for YPT are Wednesday nights at 5:30PM. All youth (6th-12th grade) are welcome to join as we need help singing, playing instruments, and even learning how to run the sound board. Contact John Ivan with questions/concerns.
Jubilate!
Jubilate choir (for all ages and services) has several special anthems planned in coming months: a special anthem on May 6th, and on May 27th to honor our veterans for Memorial Day. The choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings at 7:00PM and encourages newcomers. |
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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 the people who donated to our annual Easter Egg Hunt! About 70 kids enjoyed snacks, crafts, egg coloring, and the "special" hunt with candy and prizes. This would not be possible without all the wonderful families at Immanuel who help make the blessed holy season so special for our children. As we shared the story of Good Friday, we were all reminded how lucky we are that Jesus died for our sins!
Bibles for 3rd Graders
Sunday, April 29th we will give our Sunday School 3rd Graders Bibles during the second service. If your child did not receive a Bible last year, they can also be a part of this special presentation. Children should report to Sunday School first, and we will bring them up for their part in the service.
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!
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 nursery is 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 Camp
Mark your calendars for Immanuel's, Vacation Bible Camp! This year's theme is "Sky: Everything is possible with God", running from July 29th to August 2nd. The program is open to children ages Preschool (potty-trained please) to 6th Grade, and runs from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. nightly. We need your help! Immanuel is no longer coordinating the program with the UCC Church, and therefore need lots of extra help this year. Please consider volunteering, even if you cannot help the whole week. We need helpers to lead the children from group to
group, at all age levels. High School and Middle School (7th/8th) Youth are needed to help serve as leaders as well. Contact Brianna for more information (248-4211), and watch for registration forms coming soon!
Bake Sale for Vacation Bible Camp
To help with the cost of Vacation Bible Camp, we are holding our 2nd annual Mother's Day Bake Sale. We are looking for people to donate baked goods to sell on Sunday, May 13th. Items can be bagged individually or plated, to sell as great last minute gifts for mom! The cost to feed 200 kids and 75 volunteers is a lot, so any donation would be appreciated. Please bring donations to the kitchen marked "VBC Bake Sale". Thank you for helping us continue to make this program a success!
Early Release Day
The next Early Release Day is set for Thursday, May 10th, 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 April! 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, Sharon Aspenson, Ron Bachman, Al Bettisch, Carol Bice, Bill Binn, Sr., Grace Bunge, Alice Carroll, Thomas Cherney, Danielle Cloutier, Loretta Combs, Reva Combs, Ron Deering, Mamie Deluca, Megan Domalik, Tyler Eppers, Ron Erickson, June Eytcheson, Evan Fay, Susie Fleischer, Mary Fleschner, Amber Fox, Bob Freitag, Bernice Fry, Pete Garcia, Donna Gerke, James Giese, Theresa Giese, Zachary and Angela Giovannoni, Haiti Mission Team, Carolyn Hallett, Lorraine Hanneman, Ken Hanson, Bill Harrod, Cassandra Hedges, Jim Hefty, Erik Heinz, Jonathan Hibbard, Doug Hitz, Tony Huml, Hundrsrucker family, Pastor Eric Jelnik, Cat Johnson, John Johnson, Morgan Johnson, Ruth Johnson, Sarah Johnson, Terri Johnson, Johnalee Kawalec, Mari Knopp, Emma Kohl, Jeff Kohl, Mildred Kwiatkowski, Jean Laack, Joyce Lang, David Leach, Don Ledenbach, Ruth Lenon, Jennifer Litelia, Brian Long, Howard Madsen, Tiffany Majors, Jim Michalek, Craig Middleton, Lori Miller, Larry Moe, Tom Mol, Dean Nelson, Wesley Nixon, Dean Noble, Carol Nocek, Carrie Novak, Greere O'Donnell, Joel Ortiz, Patricia Owen, Dan Peterson, Carolyn Phillips, Mary Plunkett, Lydia Polek, Lucee Pond, Paul Portwich, Molly Reek, Rick Ruby, Bill Schulz, Rebecca Schulz, Bea Sutton, Helen Swan-Hapke, Rick Sylvester, Al Szumanski, Helen Teegen, Mark Trimazo, Meagan and Rhiana Vandercar, Elaine Vorpagel, Laura Wagner, Doug and Sandy Wilson, Jeff Wilson, Colleen Wysocki.
In Hospice Care
Bill Schulz
Expecting a child
Megan Burg, Jill Peters.
Surgeries and Recovering
Molly Reek, Sharon Aspenson, Ken Hanson |
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Sympathy |
+Ken Wells, father of Bill Wells, died to Christ on March 29th.
+ Murial Madaus, mother of Jeanne Madaus, died to Christ on March 31st.
+Joseph Zyla died to Christ on March 31st.
+Eugene Heckel, father of Leif Heckel, died to Christ on April 9th.
+Colin Barnes, nephew of Joanie and Bill Fields, son of Lance and Jeanna Barnes, died to Christ on April 10th.
+Eldon Peacock, husband of Bev Peacock, died to Christ on April 10th.
+Harry Smith, father of Marty Smith, died to Christ.
+Del Stutzman died to Christ on April 12th.
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Congratulations! |
+Congratulations to Dr. Marie Hinzpeter, granddaughter of Spud and Ruth Hinzpeter, was married on April 14th to Dr. James Dorsey in Chapel Hills, NC.
+Congratulations to Annie Gaugert on signing a scholarship letter of intent for golf and track to Valparaiso Univeristy!
+Congratulations to Joe, Becky and Jada Melito on welcoming Quinn and Josh Hersud to their family!
+Congratulations to Dan Sepe on being Valedictorian of his 2012 Badger High School graduating class!
+Congratulations to Clay Wahlstedt and his Destination Imagination "Starburst" team on placing first! The team goes to Knoxville, TN on May 20th for globals with 26 countries and other states competing!
+Congratulations to Cody Fleischer on placing in the top ten in the state for Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills Competition. The state competition is in May in Madison.
+Congratulations to Riely Mikrut and Elliott Huemann - two of 12 students recognized by Mercy Medical Systems for their outstanding service to community. |
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Births |
+Congratulations to Jason and Cathy Peterie on the birth of their son, Ethan Thomas, on March 28th!
+Congratulations to Terry and Carol Madsen on the birth of their granddaughter, Georgia Grace, on April 5th!
+Congratulations to Steve and Judy Guy on the birth of their grandson, Brody James, on April 8th!
+Congratulations to Jake and Tiffany Erbantraut on the birth of their daughter, Margaret Ann, on April 10th!
+Congratulations to Doug and Liz Ehlert on the birth of their daughter, Grace Elizabeth, on April 12th!
+Congratulations to Roxann and Chris Migut on the birth of their grandson, Elijah Kulvin Salter, to daughter Heather and her husband, Alex, on April 20th. |
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New Members |
A warm welcome to our new members!
Bev Barnett
PO Box 160
Twin Lakes, WI 53181
262-279-6445
barnettmodels@earthlink.net
Bev loves the variety of age levels and spirit of Christ at Immanuel! She grew up in Libertyville.
Ben Bolton
323 Fairway Circle
Edgerton, WI 53534
608-444-9945
b-kj-2005@hotmail.com
Ben's wife, Kathi, and son, Jacob, joined two years ago! Ben is busy building big ships worldwide!
Andy Kerwin
1719 Miller Court
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
avillage@genevaonline.com
Andy manages Arbor Village Assisted Living. He helps with the Walk to End Alzheimers and is in graduate school for Gerontology!
Georgia Owens
869 Sweetbriar Drive
Elkhorn, WI 53121
jowens6@charter.net
Georgia is a clinical nurse specialist at Lakeland. She is married, has 3 children, 4 grandchildren and a great grandson!
Anita Smith and Austin
N2020 County Road H, #561
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
850-694-2809
barefootntropical@gmail.com
Anita and Austin just moved back from Florida! Austin is a freshman at Badger and plays tenor sax!
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New Address |
Al and Carrie Novak
6331 First Avenue
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
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Website and Facebook |
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!
Check us out on Facebook:
- Immanuel Church
- Grace Overflowing for Immanuel Lutheran Church
- Immanuel Lutheran Crew
- Immanuel Lutheran Music Ministry
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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 Rite 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.
May 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 the church wide study for our curriculum this year. Our Youth Group will continue to meet through June 13th each Wednesday. We'll have more fun things planned for the summer too...watch a video, play games, sing, 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!
Mark your calendars for July 29th - August 2nd. Our Middle School kids are an integral part of our Vacation Bible Camp Leadership Team. We need all of you amazing kids to help lead the little ones. :)
A HUGE thank you to Greg Kunes and Kunes Country Auto Group (Delavan) for donating a 15 passenger van for our trip to Youth Quake!! What a tremendous blessing and gift this was for our Youth. |
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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 meet at church in the youth room. This is a student led group, with adult help as needed.
On Wednesday nights from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. we meet at the Hibbard home, W1161 Trieste Drive, Lake Geneva (248-1782).
Both groups are studying "The Story", so if you can't make one night, maybe the other night will work.
Recognition Sunday for Our High School Seniors - May 27th
16 high school seniors will be recognized on Sunday, May 27th and presented with a beautiful, handmade quilt specially designed for them by our amazing quilters! As our graduates move on to their next stage in life, the quilt is a reminder of the ever-present love of Jesus and the love from their faith community. Please join us on the 27th as we celebrate with them!
High School Mission Trip
On July 14th, 15 high school teens and 4 adults will travel by train to Crown Point, New Mexico to work with the Navajo Nation and Next Step Ministries.
We are in need of donations of work gloves, nail aprons, hammers and tape measures for each participant. There is also a need for utility knives, extension cords, levels, tin snips, hammer staplers, circular saws, cordless drills, sawzall, sledge hammer, carpenter pencils, chalk line, dry line, pry bars and spade shovels. Tools can be dropped off in the office.
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!!!
Need Help with Your Yard work?
Our high school mission team wants to help you with your yard work! On Saturday, April 28th and May 5th, they are willing to do your yard work for you. Please sign up on the clip board on Sunday or contact Cynthia at 248-4211 to make arrangements. They are volunteering to do the yard work, but a donation to the mission trip would be greatly appreciated!
Envelope Fundraiser
We have started an "envelope fundraiser" for our summer High School mission trip! 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. 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 the Navajo Nation at Crown Point, New Mexico.
30 Hour Famine
As her senior project, Riely Mikrut organized a 30 Hour Famine to raise awareness on hunger, poverty, injustice and what God thinks about it all. The participants included Riely, Kiley Pearce, Kelsey Nocek, Elliot Huemann, Jake Gates, Erin Huemann, Randi Mikrut and Taylor Romine. Thank you for enlightening us on the needs of children around the world and congratulations on raising almost $4,000, which will feed 11 children for a year! What a compassionate and inspiring senior project! |
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MISSION
Blood Drive
Thank you so much to all who participated in the blood drive in April! We saw 25 donors and collected 24 units which will save up to 72 lives! We also saw 2 donors that contributed dual red donations which will be a generous donation for our local patients who benefit. Again, without sponsors like you we could not meet our obligations to our local hospitals and patients in the communities we serve. Our next blood drive is 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.
Material Needed for Quilters
Wanted - Any old, clean, used sheets and unused cotton fabric. Please donate for the Tuesday Quilters.
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.
Immanuel's Relay for Life Team
Immanuel's Relay for Life team is back this year! Are you interested in helping to raise money for the American Cancer Society while exercising and having fellowship with other church members? Join Immanuel's Relay for Life team! The event takes place on Friday, July 20th and Saturday, July 21st, 2012. The theme this year is "Ray of Hope." There is a $10.00 per person registration fee. Please contact Ashley Miu at 262-325-4443 if you are interested in joining this great cause!
Card Ministry
Our Card Ministry will gather on Thursday, May 17th 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!
Cookie Ministry
The next cookie ministry date is Friday, May 11th 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! This is our last gathering until September and it's a very special day...our beloved Pastor Mary Ann's birthday!
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.
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!
Side By Side Screening
Side By Side screening is the 3rd Tuesday of each month, May 15th, 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
"For the soul of every living thing is in the hand of God, and the breath of all mankind." Job 12:10
In this month's health newsletter, Parish Nurse, Karen Stein, addresses Asthma. May is National Asthma Awareness Month. For more information or to see the whole article, please check out Karen's newsletter at www.immanuellakegeneva.org and click on "May Health Newsletter". Copies are available at church.
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!
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 between the ages of 3-5. 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.
Our mission trip is en route to Haiti as of this writing. They are going 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, Riely Mikrut, 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 Kenya
Jambo Rafiki! (Swahili for "Greetings Friend") - The Baraka ladies have been sewing like crazy! Their products have been sold through various organizations and have raised thousands of dollars that help develop skills and purchase more materials. First Love has built the Baraka Centre' from those funds and now they even have a gift shop to sell their products to missionaries visiting the orphanage.
I plan to go back in early August to teach more sewing, embroidery and card and jewelry making. I need your help. Please pray for us as we walk with these faithful ladies to help them develop skills so they can support their families. The estimated cost of the trip is $4,000.00. This includes airfare, housing at the First Love Orphanage, food, visa, project supplies and a donation of food and staples for each of the 60 ladies in the group. If you are able help with the funding, please write your check to Immanuel and mark it "Baraka Women". If you have sewing supplies to donate, I would love to take them along. We need needles, pins, thread, seam rippers, zippers, buttons, safety pins, bias tape, ribbon, thimbles, etc. If you are interested and able, please consider helping with this financial part of my efforts. I know and appreciate all you have already done to stand beside me in helping these needy women living in the second largest slum in the world. Thank you! -Ginger Peterson, 101 Trina Avenue, NE, Kennesaw, GA 30144 gingerlea57@gmail.com
Partnership with Puerto Rico
We are so excited for our partnership with Iglesia Evangelica Luterana Sión 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. Special thanks to Pastor Bill White who shared the message on April 22nd.
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. Donations can be placed in the pink box by the office. 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 Pantry is 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.
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!
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 5 months to create more momentum for OUR ministry here in Prague and throughout Czech. "He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it." (1 Thes. 5:24 ESV) Recently Zach was asked to share what God has been teaching him as of late and he quickly replied with three words - GOD IS FAITHFUL. There is nothing earth-shattering about this, is there? No. It's a truth about God.
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. |
FELLOWSHIP & MEETINGS
WELCA Ladies Luncheon
The WELCA Ladies Luncheon is scheduled for Wednesday, May 2nd, at 12:00 p.m. at Sprecher's Restaurant, 111 Center Street, Lake Geneva. Please by Tuesday, May 1st, 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.
A Day In Time Memory Keepers Club
Keep your brain sharp through this monthly, interactive brain fitness club. Learn self-help techniques that include: brain preservation, mind exercises, reducing stress, nutrition tips, aging wellness, education and guest speakers. It is the 3rd Tuesday of every month in the Junker Lounge from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. This is a free program; however a nominal donation per session is greatly appreciated to cover costs of handouts and refreshments.
Book Club
The Book Club will meet on Wednesday, April 25th at 2:00 p.m. at Arbor Village in Lake Geneva. We will review the book Stones from the River by Ursula Hegi. Everyone is welcome!
Southern Lakes Masterpiece Chorale
Southern Lakes Masterpiece Chorale presents "Mass of the Children" on Friday, May 4th at 7:00 p.m. at Elkhorn High School Auditorium. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Advance sales call 608-741-5074. Our church member, Michele Rindfleisch, is in this wonderful concert. If you have any questions, please call Michele at 262-642-2507.
Women of Faith One Day Event - June 23rd
Join us for a one day Women of Faith empowering event in Hoffman Estates, IL on Saturday, June 23rd from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. A group of 20 tickets ($61.00 each) have been purchased for this event . We would love to get a group of teens and women from our community to go! Contact Cynthia at 248-4211 for more information or to purchase a ticket. The guest speakers are:
Sheila Walsh: A multi-talented author (with more than three-and-a-half million books sold!), speaker, singer, television personality, and dog-walker who does it all while wearing killer heels. Her transparency takes our breath away as she shares the real issues she-and many of us-deal with every day.
Ken Davis: One of the most sought after speakers in North America, Ken has appeared on television and stage around the world and is the host of the popular daily radio show, "Lighten Up," heard on over 800 stations across America. He spent 15 years working for Youth for Christ, and in the last 30 years has traveled the world as a top motivational and inspirational speaker. Ken provides a unique mixture of side-splitting humor and inspiration that never fails to delight and enrich audiences of all ages.
Scott MacIntyre: Since captivating the nation as a finalist on American Idol, Scott has continued to move audiences to laughter, tears, and standing ovations all over the world. His contagious spirit of optimism and heartfelt stories take us on an emotional journey of love and yearning, hardship and hope, from someone who deeply understands the challenge of overcoming enormous adversity.
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THANKS
+Thank you to all who participated in the Maundy Thursday Last Supper Drama! You all were amazing! We all felt a part of the Last Supper. Thank you for bringing it to life and giving us a visual!
+Thank you to all who participated in the Good Friday Passion Drama! Again, amazing! It's so hard to witness the crucifixion, but so riveting in knowing we have Easter with our Risen Lord. Thank you!
+Thank you to everyone for your donations and continued support for the Lake Geneva Food Pantry. Jean Benedict, Director
+Thank you to Ellen Hanson for leading our small group. She is doing a fantastic job teaching our class on Tuesday nights. We are so glad we got the opportunity to meet her along with the rest of the church family. Blessings of which we have so many, Joan Sutkay
+Thanks to All and Carrie Novak for donating a sewing machine to the quilters!
+Thanks to all who remembered my mother, Muriel, who is now at peace in the Lord's hands. Jeanne Madaus
+I want to thank everyone for their help with making this year's Easter Breakfast another overwhelming success. We served 380 people this year! I also want to thank you for your prayers as I continue to learn what is going on with my health. I am undergoing lots of tests and hope to learn more in the next month. Rick Ruby
+Thanks to Frank Guske for turning the palms from Palm Sunday into beautiful palm crosses.
+Thank you to Jan and Dan Bice, Gary and Pat Parsons, Yvonne Mol and Toni Jooss for doing a "spring" cleaning on the kitchen!
+Great Easter service! We are so blessed to have John with us! Thanks!
+Thank you to Kim Hetz, Angie Schmidt, Olivia Bergersen, Karen Baumgartner, Vijay Narayanan, Pastor Mark and Shannon Blay for delivering the Easter flowers to our shut-ins. What a blessing you are!
+Thank you to Kim Hetz, Teri Voss, Jeri Gaugert, Laurie Lois, Cynthia Hibbard, Rhonda Ganansky, and Madgel Schluga for making delicious cookies/desserts for the unveiling gatherings. Absolutely yummy!
+Huge thanks to the Building Team for their past and continued work on our new church building. It is an incredible and sometimes daunting task to try to put it all together. You are doing a fantastic job and we are looking forward to see how the plans progress!
+What a surprise-the gift of the Easter lily from Immanuel Lutheran Church. Our sincere thank you for the plant, it's beautiful; four blooms and showing two buds. Again, thank you for your kindness. Art and Jo Anderson
+Thank you to Loretta Frank and Cynthia Hibbard for inputting the information for the directory. Thank you to Rick Ruby for taking all the pictures. You are a blessing!
+Thank you for the gift of lilies, coffee cake and juice left over from Easter! They were much appreciated! -The staff and residents of New Life Lodge
+Dear Friends in Christ, We are a church that is known for rolling up our sleeves and getting to work. Because of your generosity, a mother in Cambodia is discovering that what she's learned through a farmers' co-op and rural development program can help her earn a steady income from her family's vegetable garden. Because of your generosity, a young woman in Haiti is discovering new meaning to her life as she learns the construction skills that will empower her to help her country rebuild. Because of your generosity, a widow in India is earning a living with her special puffed rice recipe and a little start from a microfinance and training program. Your gifts to ELCA World Hunger helped nurture all their new hopes. Thank you! Thank you for your dedication and generosity to ELCA World Hunger, our church's ministry with people who are hungry in nearly 60 countries around the world. You really do make a difference in people's lives. Thank you! - The Rev. Daniel Rift, Director, ELCA World Hunger
+A heartfelt thank you to Pastor Mark, Pastor Mary Ann and members of Immanuel who have been so thoughtful and caring. Each and everything you have done is so appreciated. It makes me feel blessed to be remembered with cards, gifts, prayers and more. You have brightened my days! Nannette Yakes
+To Pastors Mary Ann and Mark, Members of Immanuel and the Cantata Singers: "Oh, What a Glorious Day," goes the song!! Words cannot express from the bottom of my heart the joy and blessings I have received from all at Immanuel. What an amazing church family!! Thank you for all the gifts and most of all "your love"! Love, Kathy Middleton
+Thanks to Kathy Grenning for her wonderful leadership through Lent and especially at the Maundy Thursday service. Thanks for sharing your gifts and singing an evocative solo that added so much to the service.
+Thanks to Brenda Follensbee for her lush solo for all three services on Palm Sunday! The piece and her voice celebrated Jesus' entry, yet was foretelling of what was to come. Thanks for sharing your gifts and offering your praises through song! Your talent is touching and we look forward to hearing you again.
+Thanks to Jubilate for the poignant, sensitive, and powerful anthem on Good Friday! I could feel the Holy Spirit in the room as you sang and played with such conviction. Thanks to the instrumentalists for their lush accompaniment, and vocalists for their compelling words.
+Thanks to Adrianna Fueredi for her lovely harp solo on Good Friday. She is such a talented young lady and we are thrilled to see her using her gifts to glorify God's people. Wonderful job and we are eager to hear you again soon! Keep up the great work!
+Thanks to Elizabeth Bunge for her special solo, "Jesus Loves Me" sung on Good Friday. It was such a tender moment in the service and she sang beautifully! It was just precious...thanks for sharing and keep using that voice to praise God!
+To the entire CHOIR, ORCHESTRA and TECH guys- THANK YOU SOSOSOSOSO MUCH for all your hard work, dedication and commitment to the Easter Cantata. Words cannot express my feelings and joy that came over me yesterday. The sound was OVER THE TOP and it was a GLORIOUS DAY!!! Also thanks to Bud for the awesome risers, CD's, $29 binders - hahahaha and all your hard work for us. WE ARE ALL A TEAM FOR JESUS!!!! Love you all, Kathy.
+Dearest Family and Friends, Many of you heard that my nephew, Colin Barnes, was killed in an ATV accident yesterday. Thank you for all your kind words and prayers. This will be a very difficult time for us and especially for my brother and his family. Colin was an energetic, enthusiastic 9 year old, with a love for life. He will be dearly missed. Parents, hug your children and never forget to tell them how much you love them! We love you all! Joanie, Bill, Sarah, Brady and Tanner
+Thank you to Don Schmitz for donating his penny collection and 4 boxes full of hard cover books for the High School Youth to sell for donations for their New Mexico mission trip in July! We thank all who have donated in various ways! Each one of you is making a huge difference in our teen's lives! Thank you! Thank you! -The 2012 High School Mission Team |
| Many Blessings to You! | |
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