JANUARY 2016 - By The Way
COMING IN JANUARY...
TO THE LITTLE HOME CHURCH PULPIT
A Series of Sermons - "Being Christian Today Ain't Easy"

January 10 -- Pain Management
January 17 -- Living with Fear?
January 24 -- Where Is Our God When You Need Him?
January 31 -- Our Christian Future

All are at 9:30 am -  See you then!
PASTOR'S MESSAGE
Welcoming Jesus

"When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was." (Mt. 2:9) It's a New Year, 2016, another year for Little Home Church, but a different year, a year of anticipation and of the unknown. This Epiphany passage speaks to our year ahead.

Over the years LHC has had a "star," a vision, of where to go to be the church of this community and the church God is calling us to be. In 2016 we have an ongoing challenge to discern how LHC can be a vital church serving the community and we have a Revisioning Team to lead us. And if that isn't earthshaking enough, we also look to bring a new pastor on board this year. Two very significant benchmarks that will help determine our LHC future. One is the pathway of what kind of sustaining and missional church we will be and the other is welcoming a spiritual leader to help guide that revision.

If we are "wise" people following a spiritual "star" of re-vision, we will recognize that we must end up at the "place where the child is." No Jesus: no revision that will last; no Pastor that will stay; no church worth its salt. So let's welcome Jesus into everything we do: into our worship; meetings; outreach; decisions; fellowship; etc. All we need to do is ask for his presence to guide us, to light the way and we will be a church of enlivened spirit!
 
With you on the journey,
 
Pastor David
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WORSHIP SCHEDULE
SUNDAY SERVICE 9:30 AM

January 3 Holy Communion; Epiphany Sunday
Sermon: "Who's Got the Light?" - Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12
 
Sermon Series Begins: "Being Christian Today Ain't Easy"
January 10 - Pain Management - Scripture: Luke 22:39-46
January 17 - Living with Fear - Scripture: Exodus 3:1-9
January 24 - Where Is God? - Scripture: I Samuel 17:24-49
January 31 - Our Future - Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20


JANUARY DATES

Bible Study - Wednesdays, 10 am - Currently studying the New Testament book of Luke


Choir Practice - Wednesdays, 7 pm

Playdate - Mondays, 9 to 11 am

A Book & A Prayer - Tuesday, Jan 5, 7 pm  More

Church Council Meeting - Tuesday, Jan 12, 7 pm

Friday Night at the Movies - Friday, Jan 8, 7 pm  More

Men of LHC Breakfast - Saturday, Jan 9, 8:30 am, Colonial Restaurant

January BTW Deadline - Tuesday, Jan 19

 

Congregational "Janual" Meeting - Sunday, Jan 31, 10:30 am - It's a 'Pledge Party'  More

 


2016 Fireworks party - Happy New Year Display celebrations 2016 written in lights trails and fireworks.

janualmeeting
'JANUAL' MEETING - SUNDAY, JAN. 31
IT'S A 'PLEDGE PARTY' CELEBRATION

Join us on Sunday, January 31 immediately after the worship service to CELEBRATE the wonderful success of our 2016 Stewardship Campaign. The 'Pledge Party' is for everyone to enjoy, whether you made a pledge for 2016 or not, we all can share in the achievement because we all participate in LHC.

We will then convene the 'JANUAL' Congregational Meeting to review and approve a
LHC Budget; learn the final results of the 2015 Challenge Pledge; hear the specific outcome of the 2016 Stewardship Campaign; and check in with the ongoing Search & Call process to find a new Pastor. Our opportunity as a church member in the Congregational tradition is the important responsibility we have to participate in the financial and leadership direction of our church. Please plan to attend this meeting, hear all the good news, and celebrate 2016...!

Kathleen Sullivan Kaska, Moderator-elect 
Bob Kaska, Stewardship
REVISIONING
TEAM IN PLACE & MOVING FORWARD

The LHC Revisioning Team has met and outlined a strategy to move forward with the next step in the process of determining the missional direction into our future. To recap the journey to date, it began with an in-depth assessment by an unbiased third party who created a seventy-two page report for our review. Approximately thirty-five folks gathered together to discuss and analyze the findings and what they might mean for us at LHC. Based on all of your input, it was decided to continue the process by discerning a missional direction that will take us into the future.

The Revisioning Team is compiling a list a community agencies to interview about what they find to be the needs in their community and how Little Home Church might be of assistance. At various points during the process the Team will also seek input from the congregation. Once the interviews have been completed, the Team will collate the information for review and analysis. Your Church Council will then receive a draft recommendation from the Team for their review, discussion and approval.

Questions may be directed to members of the Team at any time. Susi Winquist (Chair); Kathy Haben; Karen Kaluzsa; Bob Kaska; Kathleen Sullivan Kaska; Alex Kentfield; Susannah Lesswing; Peg Schramuk; Jim Winquist.

Shalom, Susi Winquist
movie
FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES
'DIETRICH BONHOEFFER' - JANUARY 8 AT 7 PM

Join us for an evening of theology and history as we view the PBS documentary of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. In 1930 Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a brilliant young theologian just beginning his career. After an extended trip to America, he returned to Germany as Hitler was rising to power. Bonhoeffer quickly saw the connection between Hitler's treatment of the Jews and the racial discrimination that he had seen in America. Ominously, two days after Hitler was declared Chancellor, as Bonhoeffer delivered a radio address denouncing Hitler, he was cut off. This is the compelling story of one man's struggle against Nazism and its intimidation of the German Church. Rare archival footage and interviews with his students and family bring this chilling true story of life.

Any questions? Please contact Maureen O'Donnell at 630.462.0331 or odonnellmo13@gmail.com
bookclub
A BOOK & A PRAYER BOOK CLUB
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7

God is Red: A Native View of Religion by Vine Deloria Jr.
 
In 'God is Red,' Chinese dissident journalist and poet, Liao Yiwu--once lauded, later imprisoned, and now celebrated author--profiles the extraordinary lives of dozens of Chinese Christians, providing a rare glimpse into the underground world of belief that is taking hold within the officially atheistic state of Communist China. Liao felt a kinship with Chinese Christians in their unwavering commitment to the freedom of expression and to finding meaning in a tumultuous society, even though he is not a Christian himself. This is a fascinating tale of otherwise unknown personalities thriving against all odds. 

Meets 1st Tuesday of every month, 7 pm in the Parish Hall
Kathy Haben
WORSHIP & SPIRITUAL GROWTH
A MINISTRY OF MANY

While Jane Shelton and her family rally their support at Sam's bedside at St. Anthony's Hospital in Colorado, I will be assisting with the duties and responsibilities of WSG Ministry. Please contact me or the Church office with suggestions or concerns.

The Holidays are behind us now and we can take a deep cleansing breath and relax. In light of the challenges LHC faced with the absence of your WSG leader Jane, our congregation pulled together and accomplished some wonderful things. It was a busy time and if I were to try to name all the folks who stepped in to help when help was needed most I would surely miss someone. So, I will say thank you, thank you, and thank you to all for making this a truly blessed Christmas tide!

As we settle down for the cold months of winter know that life goes on at LHC. There are many opportunities for you to take an active role in the ministry of LHC. Please check the Flower and Fellowship sign-up sheets in the Parish Hall or the church website and consider being a part of Worship as a Pulpit Associate or Usher.

Shalom, Susi Winquist
OUTREACH MINISTRY
CHRISTMAS GENEROSITY & PLAYDATE FUN

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Sir Winston Churchill

Once again Little Home Church showed their giving hearts and spirits. Thank you to those who helped to provide 45 Christmas dinners to Neighborhood Food Pantries. And if that wasn't enough, 80 gifts were delivered to the Wayne Township General Assistance Office helping make Christmas a little brighter for eight families. Thank you to Lori Prang for once again coordinating 'The Giving Tree' with such a beautifully fun display and organized system of gift distribution--Elf Extraordinaire. Also, our Women's Advent Worship & Tea event collected $470 for Tammy's Trace, the new affordable housing for women veterans provided by Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans.

'Playdate' had some neat activities happening in December. First there was a visit from Rik, the bee keeper, who shared his knowledge on bees, honey, and all that happens in those hives. Each family went home with a jar of fresh honey...Yum! The group decorated Christmas cookies right before the holiday...and were pretty tidy about it too. Finally, the Monday after Christmas found us enjoying a visit from Anna and Elsa, of the movie "Frozen." Elsa even brought her icy weather with her. We can't wait to see what fun January brings.

Valerie Baldwin
SEARCH & CALL COMMITTEE
AN UPDATE

The Search & Call Committee has reviewed the profiles of approximately 40 candidates for the Pastor position of Little Home Church since early June, 2015. Of those candidates whom we think may possibly be a good fit, we requested a video of a sermon. In a few cases, we were able to visit the church where the candidate presently serves to hear him or her deliver a sermon. One candidate withdrew after the first interview, and we abandoned interest in two other candidates after the first interview. We rejected one other candidate after the second interview. We interviewed an additional candidate but still are undecided as to how to proceed in his case. The arrangements for interviews of two other candidates are pending, with one scheduled to take place in the first week of January. One final candidate in whom we were interested and had requested an interview, withdrew following receipt of LHC's profile.
 
Communication has been slowed by the Holiday season. But we are undaunted by the slowness of finding the right fit for LHC. We are counting on the patience and encouragement of the congregation to support us as we continue the search. Search & Call Committee: Greg Abell; Carol Berger; Anne Bouchard; Matt Hadfield; Judy Hopkins; and Alex Kentfield

Judy Hopkins
COMMENTS FROM THE MODERATOR
WHAT YOU SEE

My first 'By The Way' Moderator's Comments had a picture of me taken (more than) a few years ago. A few months later, I 'fessed-up and included a somewhat more up to date likeness of me, and promised to eventually show a photo of my real self. Well, as far as being this year's moderator goes, this latest picture clearly shows that "what you see is what you got!" When going shopping with my wife, Christa, I am constantly taken aback when I see this "old guy" walking alongside me in the clothing stores. It always takes a second or two, but I quickly realize that the figure is me in the mirror! What we see is not what we see. Most people often do not see things as they are; but rather see things as they are. Our brain, through our vision, puts its own "spin" on things, based on internalized measures and values, not the measures and values of the external or real world. We often see what we want, what we hope, and even at times what we fear or wish to avoid; all frequently having less than a full measure of reality. 

As we go forward into a new year, we have several significant opportunities and challenges ahead of us. We continue to search for a permanent pastor to mentor us, help us and work alongside of us as we re-vision our purpose and calling as a congregation. We can justly be confident in who we are; after all we've been a part of the local landscape for almost 150 years. Yet we also understand that many things have changed over these years, particularly in the past 20 or so years. The local landscape has significantly changed, and so must we. 

The early history of our congregation is well documented in "The Plow and the Cross." Our congregational church forefathers busted sod to plant their fields of grain and other crops, and in thanksgiving for the Lord's bounty and grace, built a church that has served them, and us, well. However, almost 150 years later, we must find new ways to till the fertile fields that have opened around us, and nourish the seeds of wider community involvement and service, and re-build our church from the inside (us!) out to better fulfill a newly discerned mission. It is my fervent hope and prayer that although our church's exterior may look the same to the naked eye in ten years, it will not be the same church.
Peace,

Alex Kentfield, alex.kentfield@sbcglobal.net 
Larry D.
A THANK YOU
Thanks to all who played a part in any of the music during Advent and Christmas. And many thanks to those who offer support to our programs with financial gifts, time and talent, and kind words.
 
Here is a prayer by Thomas Troeger to get us started in 2016.
 
"Source of all that is good and true and beautiful,
to whom whales and birds and crickets sing,
keep constant in your musicians
that your spirit works through them
to reach a vast and carried host of souls
who gather in church
for hope, assurance, grace, beauty,
for some sign of your care,
for solace from grief and loss,
for strength to stand for justice,
for a glimpse of wonder and mystery,
for a response to a need so hidden that it is known to you alone.
 
Assure your musicians that the rehearsals they lead,
the anthems they sing,
the hymns they play,
the psalms they accompany,
the service music they offer,
the solos they sing,
the instrumental works they perform,
the programs they organize,
the words of encouragement they give
are again and again
the vessel of your Spirit
for healing the bruised, the lost, the broken
and for setting free the holy aspirations of the heart.
 
And since the souls that are saved
be the secret ministries of music
often find it too self-revealing,
too frightening,
to offer their thanks in person,
may their unarticulated gratitude
be gathered by the wind of your Spirit
and be borne in the hearts of your musicians
as a gift to renew their faith
so that they may continue to be instruments
of proclamation and pastoral care
as they lead your people
in singing your everlasting praise
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen  
 
Larry Dieffenbach, Director of Music, Organist, larry@littlehomechurch.org
A PILGRIMAGE TO THE ABBEY

A group from Little Home Church: Judy Hopkins; Norm Miller; Frank Muno; Barb and Chip Braulick; and Pastor David made a pilgrimage on November 20 through 23 to the Abbey of Gethsemani near Bardstown, Kentucky. Started in 1848, this is the first Trappist Benedictine Monastery in the U.S. Our group participated in the seven times of worship where we hear and can respond to the monks chanting The Psalms. Besides beautiful and inspirational worship, the monastery grounds, library, retreat house, and chapel all provided us with time for spiritual reflection. The monk's hospitality was warmly received and their bourbon fudge and fruitcake was delicious.

Ask our pilgrims about their visit...!
Child on a beach with hands cupped holding stone pebble with the word hope engraved concept for faith, love, spirituality and religion
OUR LOVE & PRAYERS

Recently hospitalized or ill:
Sam Shelton, For updates on Sam Shelton, go to:

Our deepest sympathies:
To the family and friends of Ethyln "Dulie" Ware who recently passed away. A memorial service will be held later in January.

To the Lesswing family who lost two loved ones:
Mark's father, Allan L. Lesswing passed away on Dec. 15 and Susannah's father, John Ingraham passed away on Dec. 26. Please keep Mark, Susannah, Bryan, Kate and Will in your prayers. 

Thank you to all our service men and women.
We continue to keep SSG Greg Haben in our thoughts and thank him for his service to our country. 


FLOWERS & FELLOWSHIP
SCHEDULE FOR THE MONTH

Be a part of the spirit of Sunday. Please consider providing flowers for the altar or hosting some light treats to share in the Parish Hall after Sunday worship. Email/call the church office or use the sign-up sheets hanging on a the East bulletin board in the Parish Hall. A reminder call or email will come from the office so you can note what should be listed in the Sunday service bulletin. Check the church web site for updates. Check the listing

Flowers  Jan 3/Muno; Jan 10/Bergland; Jan 17/(open); Jan 24/(open); Jan 31/LHC Council
Fellowship  Jan 3/Haben; Jan 10/Bergland; Jan 17/(open); Jan 24/(open); Jan 31/LHC Council

Thank you for your help in making our church look and feel beautiful on Sunday morning...!


'HAPPY BIRTHDAY' WISHES

Jan 2 - Bob Schless
Jan 6 - Gary Withall, Jean Muno, Greg Schramuk
Jan 8 - Greg Abell
Jan 11 - Wanda Hochstetter, Christa Kentfield
Jan 12 - Will Lesswing
Jan 16 - Pat Bartell
Jan 25 - Clara Shelton
Jan 31 - Jeff Schramuk
A MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE
COLLEGE CARE BOXES FROM LHC

Dear Little Home Church Family,

After a stressful week of midterms, papers, and other obligations, you can imagine my excitement when I saw a package with my name on it. I looked at the return address and was overjoyed to see that it was my "goodie" package from my church! It may seem like a small act of kindness to all of you, but for me it was a reminder of the support and love from my Little Home Church family. School can be stressful at times, but knowing that you are thinking of me keeps me going through the tough times. Thank you for sending me these packages throughout my four years at school and for thinking of me. I truly appreciate all the work and effort that goes into putting together these packages. Can't wait to come back and sing for my winter break.

Love, Kate Lesswing
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CHURCH LEADERSHIP
THANK YOU TO OUR CHURCH STAFF AND COUNCIL VOLUNTEERS

Pastor - Reverend Dr. David Russell
Pastor Emeritus - Reverend Dr. Don Heinrich
Director of Music/Organist - Larry Dieffenbach
Office Manager - Lori Prang 
Custodian - Odie Perry 
 
Church Council
Moderator - Alex Kentfield
Moderator-elect - Kathleen Sullivan Kaska
Stewardship - Bob Kaska
Evangelism - Ann McLaughlin
Outreach - Valeri Baldwin
Congregational Life - Barbara Braulick
Christian Education - Frank Muno
Worship & Spiritual Growth - Jane Shelton
Facilities - Anne Bouchard and Chip Braulick
Members at Large - Susi Winquist and Carol Berger
Financial Treasurer - Art Zwemke
Financial Secretary - Ann McLaughlin
Clerk - Kristin Thornton
Learn more
Little Home Church by the Wayside UCC
32W128 Army Trail Road, Wayne, IL 60184
630.584.4013

Editors: Lori Prang and Kathleen Sullivan Kaska

OFFICE SCHEDULE: 
Monday - Thursday , 9 am to 3 pm
Closed Friday, Saturday and Sunday

PASTOR DAVID: Cell 847.890.2774