 2014 has been anything but a lamb thus far, as we have certainly experienced some rather severe and brutal weather. In fact, we haven't had these sub-zero temperatures in over 20 years. But such is life here in the upper Midwest! For better or worse...it is home and we adapt. Amidst the frigidness of recent times, I received a letter that truly brought me unmeasurable comfort and joy. If I may, I'd like to share this letter with you and I hope that the kind words and genuine sincerity warms you as thoroughly as it warmed me: "Dear Father Manny,
I cannot let this year end without saying a most sincere THANK YOU for all St. Nicholas has done for me.
It seems that every time I turn around, there is either a financial or emotional setback in my life. St. Nicholas has given me the strength to face these issues.
I have met some very good people at the church and they are always glad to see me. I could not ask for more.
May only the best in 2014 come your way.
signed...."
My friends, it does not get any better than this. What an honor it is to know that the good people of St. Nicholas continue to reach out and care for those in need. Whether it is our heart-felt prayers or a bag of groceries, a hug and warm welcome to a "new comer" or clean socks for the homeless, we are there. Thank you, my friends. Regardless of the terrifically bitter and biting cold, this is a very warm and loving place. All are welcome and we truly mean it. - Manny |
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We look forward to baptizing Addison Lilly on Sunday, January 12. We hope you'll be there to join as we welcome our newest member!
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Annual Meeting & Potluck Luncheon
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Sunday, January 26, 2014 after the 10AM service
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Please make plans to join us for our 2014 Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 26 following the 10AM service. Please bring your questions, concerns, and a dish to share. More details will follow soon.
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Bitter cold go away come again some other day...well, go away, period! With the weather being so severe, we canceled all "after church" programs last weekend. However, we certainly plan to be at "full speed" for the rest of the month. Celebration Weekend will be this coming weekend January 11 and 12, as we will celebrate with all those who have a birthday, anniversary or any other special event this month. On January 18 and 19 we will celebrate Varied Voices, Healing Weekend, Children and Young People's Formation and Bible Study.
If you're not in too much of a hurry after this weekend's Liturgies, we could use some help taking down our beautiful Angel Christmas Tree. Perhaps on Saturday the Creche could be dismantled and put away along with the smaller trees and angels. Come Sunday, the tree taken apart and put away. Mind you...the tree is heavy and requires at least 4 people. Any assistance would be warmly welcomed.
There is no Choir Rehearsal until February.
Food Pantry is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15th, the 3rd week of the month.
Manny will be in the office all day on Wednesdays if any one wishes to stop in and visit.
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This Weekend's Worship Participants
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Saturday, January 11 / Sunday, January 12
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 Saturday Lector (all readings): Cyndi DeBock Sunday Lectors: Laura Lampe, Hank Mandziara Sunday Intercessor: Tameica Williams Sunday Chalice Bearers: Joanne Mangiarancia, Sandra Glos Sunday Coffee Hour Host(s): Volunteer(s) needed |
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The Community of St. Nicholas is praying for:
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Repose of the soul of Dale Richie, a seminary classmate of Manny. Dale died a few days before Christmas all alone, in his apartment. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
For members of our community who are unemployed, over and under employed: that all may find peace in a chosen and desired vocation that sustains and affords a comfortable life. For all our St. Nicholas community members who are under the weather and in need of healing and prayers: may they find peace and be blessed with sound and better health. Ruth Harber, Joanne Mangiaracina, Connie Nicholson, Taylor Gans, Richard Gans, Eunice Dohra, Corky Stratton, Ken Tamaksi and any one else in need of our continued prayers and well wishes. For our military personnel who are overseas and engaged in battle: that they soon return home safe and secure. For those who are suffering from the pain of depression: may their burdens be lightened and may they find healing. For the members of the Support Groups at St. Nicholas who endure, "one day at at time," in their daily battles against addiction.
***"Vince," who has Lyme Disease.
(**written prayer requests)
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Congratulations to Deacon Tom Smith who, on January 12th, will celebrate 40 years of Ordained Ministry to the Episcopal Church and in particular to St. Nicholas Church. God bless you Tom for your efforts and dedication.
For the generosity of the Support Group Members who made financial and material donations to St. Nicholas during the holiday season...your immense kindness is so warmly appreciated and valued.
For our friends who continue to shovel away the snow and scrape the ice so we may safely enter and exit our facility.
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This Week on the Episcopal Church calendar
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Here is what we are celebrating
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