Author: kerry@inmarketsuccess.com

Invocation

Pastor: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Congregation:  Amen.

Call to Worship 

P: “Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, praise His name; proclaim His salvation day after day. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.” (Psalm 96: 1-3) 

C: We come . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S  incerely! 

     We come with  . . . . . . . . . T  hanksgiving! 

     We come . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A  doring! 

     We come . . . . . . . . . . . . . . R  ejoicing! 

P: We come in the name of God, “for great is the LORD and most worthy of praise.” (Psalm 96:4) 

C: Oh, come, let us adore Him! Christ, the Lord!

Processional “Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful”                                           Congregation

1.  Oh, come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant!

     Oh, come ye, oh, come ye to Bethlehem;

     Come and behold Him born the king of angels:

     Oh, come, let us adore Him,

     Oh, come, let us adore Him,

     Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord! 

2.  God from true God, and Light from Light eternal,

     Born of a virgin, to earth he comes,

     Only begotten Son of God the Father.

     Oh, come, let us adore Him,

     Oh, come, let us adore Him,

     Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!

3.  Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning;

     Jesus, to Thee be all glory giv’n!

     Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing!

     Oh, come, let us adore Him,

     Oh, come, let us adore Him,

     Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord! 

Congregation stands.

A Star Litany  (Response Refrain: “We Three Kings”)

Pastor:  “We have seen His star in the east and have come to worship Him.”  (Matthew 2:2)

C:  (sung)  Oh, star of wonder, star of night,

                   Star of royal beauty bright,

                   Ever leading, still proceeding,

                   Guide us with your perfect light!

P:  God made the two great lights–the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars.  (Genesis 1:16) 

Men:  “[God] determines the number of the stars, and calls them each by name.” (Psalm 147:4) 

P:  Christ, our Lord, has said, “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” (Revelation 22: 16) 

Women:  He is my Savior. He is my light and my salvation. He is the way for my life, the truth in whom I trust and the life that I shall lead. 

C:  I believe Jesus is Lord!

C:  Oh, star of wonder, star of night,

      Star of royal beauty bright,

      Ever leading, still proceeding,

      Guide us with your perfect light!

Men:  God says to me, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.” (Isaiah 43:1) 

P:  “When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place.” (Psalm 8:3)

Women:  “What is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?” (Psalm 8:4)

P:  Yet in Christ, God looks at us and says,

C:  “That’s good!”

C:  Oh, star of wonder, star of night,

      Star of royal beauty bright, 

      Ever leading, still proceeding,

      Guide us with your perfect light! 

P:  I am one of God’s stars, one of His lights shining for Him in a dark, dark world. 

Women:  “[And] those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” (Daniel 12:3) 

P:  God has called all of us to be lights and calls us to shine, like the stars in the heavens. 

Men:  “That you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.  (Philippians 2:15-16) 

C:  Lord, shine in us brightly and shine through us to others. Amen.

C:  Oh, star of wonder, star of night,

      Star of royal beauty bright,

      Ever leading, still proceeding,

      Guide us with your perfect light!

Prayer for the Day                                                                      Pastor

Lord Jesus Christ, bright Morning Star, we worship you this day with praise and thanksgiving. For the light with which You fill the earth, for the direction You give for us to follow, for the truth on which we stand firmly, for the opportunity to shine to others as You shine in and through us, we glorify Your name. Bless all our Christmas festivities and fill them with your presence among us as we celebrate your birth. You are our Lord! You are our Savior! In Your name we pray. Amen.

Congregation sits.

Hymn “As With Gladness Men of Old”                                              Congregation

1.  As with gladness men of old did the guiding star behold;

     As with joy they hailed its light, leading onward, beaming bright;

     So, most gracious Lord, may we evermore be led by Thee.

2.   As with joyful steps they sped, Savior, to Thy lowly bed,

     There to bend the knee before Thee, whom heav’n and earth adore;

     So may we with willing feet ever seek Thy mercy seat.

3.   As they offered gifts most rare at Thy cradle, rude and bare,

     So may we with holy joy, pure and free from sin’s alloy,

     All our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to Thee, our heav’nly King.

4.  Holy Jesus, ev’ry day keep us in the narrow way;

     And when earthly things are past, bring our ransomed souls at last

     Where they need no star to guide, where no clouds Thy glory hide.

5.  In the heav’nly country bright need they no created light;

     Thou its light, its joy, its crown, Thou its sun which goes not down;

     There forever may we sing, alleluias to our King. 

The Christmas Message                                                                                               Pastor

THE CHRISTMAS STORY, Part 1, Luke 2:1-7

SONG “In Those Days Caesar Augustus”                                                           Grades 1-5

THE CHRISTMAS STORY, Part 2, Luke 2:8-14                      Children &Congregation

Children:  And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

Congregation:  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

Ch:  But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.

C: Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

Ch:  This will be a sign to you:

C:  You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.

Ch:  Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

C:  Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.

Song:  “Christmas Jingle Bells”       All Children; Congregation joins on refrain after V1&2

Refrain:  Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!

  Sing and praise and shout hooray to the baby on the hay!

  Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,

  Sing and praise and shout hooray for Christ is born today!

THE CHRISTMAS STORY, Part 2, Luke 2:15-20              Children &Congregation

Ch:  When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another,

C:  “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

Ch:  So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

C:  When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child,

Ch:  And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

C:  But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

Ch:  The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

PreK-K Recitation    Let us gather round him,

        Rejoice and praise his birth.

        For the baby King named Jesus,

        Is our Savior come to earth!

Song “Christ Is Born”                                                                                           All Children

Recitation: It’s Time                                                                                          Grades 3-4-5

Song “Light One Candle“                                                                                 Grades 1-5

Recitation: Getting Ready                                                                             Grade 3-4-5

Hymn “I Am So Glad When Christmas Comes”                              Congregation

1.  I am so glad when Christmas comes,

    The night of Jesus’ birth,

    When Bethl’em’s star shone as the sun

    And angels sang with mirth.

2.  The little child of Bethlehem,

    The King of heav’nly grace,

    Came down from His exalted throne

    To save our fallen race.

3.  I love this precious Christmas eve

     And my dear Savior mild,

     And I shall not forget the truth:

     He loves me as His child.

4   I am so glad when Christmas comes:

     Let anthems fill the air!

     He opens wide for every child

     His paradise so fair.

Recitation                                                                                                                        Grades 1-2

   with Chorus “Twinkle, Twinkle”                                                              All Children

Recitation: Everything Is Ready                                                                   Grades 3-4-5

Hymn “Oh, How I Love Jesus”                                                                   All Children

Hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem”                                                     Congregation

1.  O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! 

     Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by;

     Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light.

     The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight. 

2.  For Christ is born of Mary, and, gathered all above

     While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wond’ring love.

     O morning stars, together proclaim the holy birth

     And praises sing to God the king, and peace to all the earth!

3.   How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is giv’n!

     So God imparts o human hears the blessings of his heav’n.

     No ear may hear his coming, but in this world of sin

     Where meek souls will receive him still, the dear Christ enters in!

4.   O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray; 

     Cast out our sin and enter in; be born in us today.

     We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell;

     Oh, come to us, abide with us, our Lord Immanuel.

Recitation: Star                                                                                                                      PreK & K

“S” is for Savior, now born as a child. 

“T” is for tender, so sweet and so mild

“A” is for amazing. God’s Son is our King.  So,

“R” is for royal. His praises we sing.

Song “Ev’rybody Ought to Know”                                                              All Children

Christmas Pageant Procession 

Song “In A Little Stable”                                                                        Aaron & Vicky Wachholz

Recitation:  God’s Son                                 Grades 3-4-5; Congregation joins on final verses

C:  There is no star that’s brighter.

      There is no light so bold. 

       Than God’s own SON, born Jesus, 

      Whom prophets had foretold. 

C:  And now with hallelujahs,

      In celebrating praise 

      We come as God’s dear faithful

      And praise Him all our days.

Hymn “Away in a Manger”                                     Children V1, Congregation V2-3

2.  The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,

     But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes.

     I love Thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky,

     And stay by my side until morning is nigh.

3.  Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask Thee to stay

     Close by me forever and love me, I pray.

     Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,

     And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.

Recitation: The Announcement                                                          All Children

Hymn “Silent Night”                                                                                   Congregation

1.  Silent night, holy night! All is calm, all is bright

     Round yon virgin mother and child.

     Holy Infant, so tender and mild, 

     Sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.

2.  Silent night, holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight;

     Glories stream from heaven afar, 

     Heav’nly hosts sing, Alleluia! 

     Christ, the Savior, is born! Christ, the Savior, is born! 

3.  Silent night, holy night! Son of God, love’s pure light

     Radiant beams from Your holy face 

     With the dawn of redeeming grace,

     Jesus, Lord, at Your birth, Jesus, Lord, at Your birth.

Congregation stands.

The Prayers

The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction 

P:  May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may the light of Christ, the bright Morning Star, ever shine upon you, guide you in His way, and give you hope. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 

C:  Amen. 

P:  Go in peace and shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the Word of Life. 

All:  Amen! Alleluia! Amen! 

Congregation sits.

Recessional Hymn “Joy to the World”                                                   Congregation

1.  Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

     Let earth receive her King;

     Let ev’ry heart prepare Him room

     And heav’n and nature sing, and heav’n and nature sing,

     And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing. 

2.  Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!

     Let all their songs employ 

     While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains

     Repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy

     Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

3.  He rules the world with truth and grace

     And makes the nations prove 

     The glories of His righteousness

     And wonders of His love, and wonders of His love,

     And wonders, wonders of His love.

Thank you to:

The Sunday School Children.  PreK-K:  Preston Jahr, Xzander Jahr, Grant Wolsdorf.  Grades 1&2:  Wesley Jahr, MaKinleigh Kaenel, Estrella Kaenel, Jaxon Wolsdorf, Trenton Jahr, Annalyse Van Treeck.  Grades 3-4-5:  Nolan Van Treeck, Molly Utke, Wally Wolsdorf.

A N N O U N C E M E N T S 

January 2 – January 8

Sun.	8:00a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship
Mon.	8:00a.m.	School resumes
	3:30p.m.	A Basketball/Cheerleading practice
	6:30p.m.	Joint Choir at St. John’s
	7:30p.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
Tues.	3:30p.m.	C Basketball practice
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare in Princeton (week 1)
	6:30p.m.	Joint Worship Committee meeting at St. John’s
Wed.	8:00a.m.	School Chapel
	10:30a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	1:45p.m.	Early School Dismissal
	2:15p.m.	Public School Teen Confirmation
Thurs.	8:00a.m.	St. John’s Teen Confirmation
	12:30p.m.	Ladies Aid dessert/meeting
	3:30p.m.	A/C Basketball practice
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare in Montello (week 1)
Fri.	4:30p.m.	Basketball/Cheer games @ Fox Lake
Sat.	10:00a.m.	Basketball/Cheer games @ Mayville
	4:30p.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
Next week’s theme: January 9, 2022Epiphany 1 – The Baptism of our Lord
Sun.	8:00a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
	8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
	9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	10:00a.m..	St. John’s Worship with communion

C H U R C H   N E W S

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)

– For the sick and distressed…Caryl Bassett, Mike Brown, Ed & Warren Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Jan Dahlke, Ann & Roberta Davison (Beth Johnson’s daughters), Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Diane Eisermann, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Judy Freitag, Donna Gatzke, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Bob Klapper, Arden Klimke, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Diane Metcalf, Mary Anne Myers (Teacher Shelley Myers’ mother), Arlene Neale (Ruth Jones’ sister), Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Steve Parrish, Karen Radke, Wanda Sellnow (Principal Larry Sellnow’s mother), Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law) (added this week:  )

– For Christian Education and Mrs. Ashley Phillips who was called at the 12/19 St. John’s Voters meeting to serve as our Kindergarten teacher

– For the family of Pastor Rolfe Westendorf called home on 12/28 at the age of 88

– For Missions

NEW CHURCH ATTENDANCE SYSTEM Using your smartphones, please scan the code on the back side of the bulletin, using your phone camera, and fill out the prompted information. This new system directly notifies our pastor and keeps your current and our system updated. If you do not have a smartphone, please fill out the attendance card located at the end of each pew. Please it in the offering plate when you are finished. Thank you! 

GIFTS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS Please consider making a gift towards the following church or school projects. Your gift, to the project of your church, will be recorded under your member account in our Shepherd’s Staff program unless you specifically request it to be recorded as anonymous. Donor names and gift amounts are not published. Your gift can be placed in the offering plate, the locked drop box by the office, or mailed. Please contact the church/school office secretary, Ciara Neuhauser, if you have any questions. 

Continued…

Project Name & Brief Description                                                      Amount Needed

House Demolition                                                                     $9,500.00

(costs related to tear down of old Little Lambs house)

Church Piano                                           $1,500.00

Church A/V Upgrades                               $2,000.00

Ministerial Tuition Assistance                         No limit in place

(assistance for members pursuing the ministry)

Outreach Activities                                       No limit in place

(church and/or school outreach supplies, fees)                              No limit in place

St. John’s School Tuition Assistance                                   No limit in place

(assistance for parents of students)

School Technology Fund                            No limit in place

(maintain teacher and student computers, devices, smartboards)

S C H O O L   N E W S

BASKETBALL & CHEERLEADING Games Jan. 7 @ 4:30pm Fox Lake and Jan. 8 @ 10:00am Mayville. Come support your Jaguars!

God Fulfills his Covenant Pledge

The Second Sunday after Christmas – Series C

God’s Word for Today

God’s activity at that first Christmas time when Jesus was born was the unfolding of the grand covenant of world-wide blessings.  This is the covenant that had been made to Abraham around 2000 years earlier. Now approximately 2000 years after Jesus’ birth we continue to reap the benefits.  Through Christ we enjoy a “dear Father – son” relationship with the almighty God himself.

First Lesson (Genesis 17:1-7)

1.  What was the covenant that God had made with Abraham?
2. What did he command as the way to seal this covenant to make its reality constantly evident to the people? (Gen 9-14)

Second Lesson (Galatians 4:4-7)

3. What do you understand by “when the time had fully come?”
4. What is the result of Jesus coming?

Gospel (Luke 1:68-75)

5. What did Zechariah acknowledge (v.72) when he broke into song at the birth of John the Baptist?
6. What is the result of God accomplishing his promise? (v.74-75)

Answers:

1. He was going to make Abraham the “father of many nations,” be their God and provide them the land as their own.  In Gen 12:3 he clarifies that “all nations will be blessed” because of him.  It is from his descendants that the Savior would be born for the benefit of the whole world. (Do you see this includes you?)

2. All the male children were to be circumcised as a sign of the covenant.  In the next generations it was to be an automatic rite carried out on the boys when they were eight days old.  It would connect them with the covenant God and his blessings to his people.

3. God’s plans for us have not only a specific purpose but also a specific time schedule.   Jesus was born at a specific time because all the elements God was putting in place were ready. His countdown was over.  What wisdom we see in the way he carried it out so that the world would know the Savior!

4. God’s Son became fully human and under law (including circumcised on the eighth day).  He did this so he could free us from the curse of law.  Now we receive the full relationship and blessings of being free sons (inheriting children) of God.  (Do you live in the security, peace and love of that relationship?)

5. He saw this as the fulfillment of the “holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham”  (See the Genesis 17 reading) 

6. We will not only be rescued from our enemies (the curse of sin, the fear of death and the power of the devil), but will also be able to serve him without fear (no longer a slave but a son- Gal 4:7)

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
12-23	104
12-24		253
12-25		56
12-26	42	71
St. John’s Altar Committee for January 2022:Kathy North & Lucy Laun

Help us stay in touch!

Scan the code below using your smartphone camera and fill out the prompted information. Don’t have a smartphone? That’s ok! Fill out an attendance card located at the end of each pew and place it in the offering plate located at the entry of each church. 

Welcome to our visitors!

Find & Like us on Facebook

Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org

Pastor Pete Zietlow: 608-408-7830, Email: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com

Principal & 6-8 Grade Teacher Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, 

Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org

3-5 Grade Teacher Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021

K-2 Grade Teacher Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554

Little Lambs Director Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816

Church/School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: 608-297-2866

Church/School Address: 313 E Montello St. Montello, WI 53949

Church/School Email: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 4^th Sunday of Advent

A Ruler Will Come

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

Pastor Peter Zietlow

December 18, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s 

December 19, 2021

8:00a.m. Emmanuel

10:00 St. John’s

† PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP †

We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES

M: We light four Advent candles remembering Jesus, the Son of God and Son of Mary. He came to share our humanity.

C: We remember Jesus whose name means Savior. He came to save his people from their sins.

M: We hear his call to give him a place in our hearts.

C: We light four Advent candles as a sign of our joy and hope.

M: Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest.

C: Through your Word and Spirit may our souls be blessed

Four Advent candles are lit.

OPENING HYMN                                                                 CW 23, Oh, Come, Oh, Come, Emmanuel

† THE COMMON SERVICE †

 Please stand.

 M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 

CONFESSION OF SINS      

We confess to God that we have failed to live up to the perfect standards in his law, and we plead for his mercy.

M: Beloved in the Lord; let us draw near with a true heart and confess our sins to God our Father, asking him in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to grant us forgiveness. 

C: Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful and that I have disobeyed you in my thoughts, words and actions. I have done what is evil and failed to do what is good. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. But I am truly sorry for my sins, and trusting in my Savior Jesus Christ, I pray: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. 

LORD, HAVE MERCY

Kyrie

M: God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son † and of the Holy Spirit.  

M: In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.

GLORY BE TO GOD

Gloria in Excelsis

PRAYER OF THE DAY 

M: The Lord be with you. 

M: Let us pray.

Stir up your power, O Lord, and come. Take away the burden of our sins and make us ready for the celebration of your birth, that we may receive you in joy and serve you always; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. 

Please be seated for the day’s Scripture readings.

† THE WORD †

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

FIRST LESSON                                                            Micah 5:2-5a (today’s sermon text)

Summary: A Ruler will come out of Bethlehem

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites.

He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be their peace.

PSALM 85

* All sing refrains, read verses and Gloria. 

You showed favor to your land, O LORD;*

you restored the fortunes of Jacob.

You forgave the iniquity of your people*

and covered all their sins.

Show us your unfailing love, O LORD,*

and grant us your salvation.

Refrain

I will listen to what God the LORD will say;*

he promises peace to his people, his saints.

Surely his salvation is near those who fear him,*

that his glory may dwell in our land.

Love and faithfulness meet together;*

righteousness and peace kiss each other.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

SECOND LESSON                                                                                                      Hebrews 10:5-10

Summary: Christ came to do God’s will

Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: “Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. Then I said, ‘Here I am—it is written about me in the scroll— I have come to do your will, O God.’”

First he said, “Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them” (although the law required them to be made).  Then he said, “Here I am, I have come to do your will.” He sets aside the first to establish the second. And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

VERSE OF THE DAY                                                                                  Matthew 1:23    

M: Alleluia. The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel. Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON                                                                                                Luke 1:39-55 

Summary: Mary’s Song of Praise

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea,  where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.  When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.  In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!  But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?  As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!”

And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.  He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.  He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful  to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers.”

NICENE CREED

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and became fully human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,

who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Be seated. 

HYMN OF THE DAY                                                   CW 65, O Little Town of Bethlehem  

SERMON                                                                                                      Micah 5:2-5a

“Make Room For the Prince of Peace!”

1. He came according to promise
2. He came to be your Peace

Please stand.

Please be seated.

ADVENT SEASON & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Read by pastor, IP pg. 15)

Please stand. 

LORD’S PRAYER   

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.          

Please be seated.  

HYMN                                                                                                CW 399:1,2 To God Be the Glory

M: Blessed Lord, you have given us your Holy Scriptures for our learning. May we so hear them, read, learn, and take them to heart, that being strengthened and comforted by your holy Word, we may cling to the blessed hope of everlasting life, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. 

M: The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.

The Lord look on you with favor and (+) give you peace.

Please be seated. 

CLOSING HYMN                                                                                CW 399:3 To God Be the Glory

*Bulletin page 12.

† ANNOUNCEMENTS †

December 19 – December 25

Sun.	8:00a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
	9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship
	11:00a.m.	Teacher Call meeting at St. John’s
	3:00p.m.	Piano Recital at St. John’s
Mon.		Christmas Spirit Week at St. John’s School
	6:30p.m.	Joint Choir at St. John’s
	7:30p.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
Tues.	6:00p.m.	School Board Zoom meeting
Wed.	8:00a.m.	School Chapel
	10:00a.m.	Montello Care Center Devotion
	10:30a.m.	Adult Bible Study
	1:45p.m.	Early School Release
	2:15p.m.	Public Teen Confirmation Class at St. John’s
Thurs	8:30a.m.	St. John’s School Christmas Rehearsal
	9:30a.m.	School Christmas Parties
	11:30a.m.	Early School Release
	6:30p.m.	Emmanuel Christmas Worship
Fri.		Christmas Eve
		Christmas School Break
	4:00p.m.	School Christmas Eve Service at St. John’s
Sat.		Christmas Day
	9:00a.m.	St. John’s Christmas Day Worship
		No St. John’s 4:30p.m. Worship
Next week’s theme: December 26, 2021 Christmas 1 – Christ Came to Be Our Brother
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion

† CHURCH NEWS †

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)

–  For the sick and distressed…Caryl Bassett, Mike Brown, Ed & Warren Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Jan Dahlke, Ann & Roberta Davison (Beth Johnson’s daughters), Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Judy Freitag, Donna Gatzke, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Bob Klapper, Arden Klimke, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Diane Metcalf, Mary Anne Myers (Teacher Shelley Myers’ mother), Arlene Neale (Ruth Jones’ sister), Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Steve Parrish, Karen Radke, Wanda Sellnow (Principal Larry Sellnow’s mother), Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law) (added this week:  )

– For those affected by last week’s tornados

– For the family of our St. John’s member, Louise Hillmer, called to her heavenly home on 12/13

– For Ed and Marlene Buchholz who will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on 12/25

SUNDAY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS SERVICE AT ST. JOHN’S has been rescheduled for Sunday, Jan. 2. We will have practice on Thursday, Dec. 30 9:30-11:30am.

CHRISTMAS CARDS are available for purchase in St. John’s lower level. Cards range from $1-$5. Come get them while they last!

CHRISTMAS EVE FELLOWSHIP AT EMMANUEL Dec. 23 after the Christmas Eve Worship Service.  All members and guests are invited for light refreshments and cookies. If you have extra cookies, please bring a plate to share.

NEW CHURCH ATTENDANCE SYSTEM Using your smartphone, please scan the code on the back side of the bulletin, using your phone camera, and fill out the prompted information. This new system directly notifies our pastor and keeps you current and our system up to date. 

If you do not have a smartphone, please fill out the attendance card located at the end of each pew. Place it in the offering plate when you are finished. Thank you! 

NEW HYMNALS The hymnals are here! If you haven’t picked yours up yet, please find them on the pew in the linkway or see Ciara in the office. It seems as though we should start using them, but for several reasons we need to be patient. We want the use of our new hymnals and worship tools to start out as comfortably as possible so we need a little time to explore the musicians’ resources and the technology resources. Please be patient. We hope to begin using them sometime soon after the first of the year. Now is a great time to become familiar with the hymnal itself. If you purchased one, take it out and open it up. You will find some differences, but overall there is a great amount of continuity between Christian Worship and our new hymnal, Christian Worship 21 (CW21). 

If you have any questions about the hymnal or would like to order one, please contact a member of the worship committee. Thank you. May God be praised with our new worship tools!

WLA CAPITAL CAMPAIGN Thank you from Winnebago Lutheran Academy for having us visit your church services recently.  It was a privilege to share with you some WLA Association news along with our plans to build a new high school campus.  Please contact Kevin Ehlke with any questions you may have at 920-539-4041 or kehlke@wlavikings.org. If you would like to give in support of our current capital campaign, please use the brochures provided at your church or go to our website forward.wlavikings.org/donate.  Gifts can be mailed to WLA or given online at our website.  Thank you for your continued support of WLA!

GIFTS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS Please consider making a gift towards the following church or school projects.  Your gift, to the project of your choice, will be recorded under your member account in our Shepherd’s Staff program unless you specifically request it be recorded as anonymous.  Donor names and gift amounts are not published.  Your gift can be placed in the offering plate, the locked drop box by the office, or mailed.  Please contact the church/school secretary, Ciara Neuhauser, if you have any questions.

Project Name & Brief Description_____________________          _                               Amount Needed                   

Church & School Computer Server Upgrade                                                                                $6,621.64

(costs for replacing server)                                                

House Demolition                                                                                                                 $9,500.00

(costs related to tear down of old Little Lambs house)                                                   

Church Piano                                                                                                                                    $1,500.00

Church A/V Upgrades                                                                                                                      $2,000.00

Ministerial Tuition Assistance                                                                                              No limit in place

(assistance for members pursuing the ministry)                     

Outreach Activities                                                                                                                No limit in place

(church and/or school outreach supplies, fees)                                                         

St. John’s School Tuition Assistance                                             No limit in place

(assistance for parents of students)                                    

School Technology Fund                                                                                                       No limit in place

(maintain teacher and student computers, smartboards)                     

† SCHOOL NEWS †

BASKETBALL & CHEERLEADING No practice Dec. 20-Dec. 31

CHRISTMAS BREAK Dec. 24-Jan. 2

God’s Great Promises Become Reality

The Fourth Sunday in Advent – Series C

God’s Word for Today

God left enough clues for the people of the Old Testament to know what was coming in the Messiah.  This not only included the city in which He would be born, but also what his great work would be – the sacrifice “once for all.”  How exciting it must have been for those who realized it was now happening! 

First Lesson (Micah 5:2-5a)

1. What is going to make little Bethlehem great?
2. What effect will that child of Bethlehem have on us today? 

Second Lesson (Hebrews 10:5-10)

3. Why wasn’t God pleased with the sacrifices of the Old Testament times? 
4. What assurances do you have now that Jesus has finished his work?

Gospel (Luke 1:39-55)

5. What amazing thing happened when Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting.
6. What does Mary’s song reveal?

Answers:

1. In connection with Christmastime the city of Bethlehem will be known throughout the world because the ancient of days, the ruler of Israel, the Savior will be born there.
2. He will be our peace and calm our hearts.  He will be the one who watches over us like a shepherd but with the power of the universe at his disposal.  Such a picture of his tender care for us will reach throughout the world. (Do your realize that peace?)
3. The ritual offerings of the sacrifices could not do away with sin nor could they calm the guilty conscience.  They did however help the nation of Israel realize the death sentences of sin as well as look forward to the promised substitute, the Messiah who would provide eternal forgiveness.
4. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross of Christ had to be done only once and it became effective for everyone.  Because of it, we are considered holy in God’s sight and prepared for being transformed to be like him. (Is this the central part of your faith and life?
5. The baby in her womb, John the Baptist, leaped in her womb for joy.  Then the Holy Spirit filled Elizabeth with new insight and thrill for what was happening.  What awesome things the Holy Spirit does in connection with the message of Jesus!
6. Mary knew that like the rest of the world she needed a Savior.  Now God was carrying out the promise that was clearly spoken to Abraham and anticipated for generations.  Generations to come would look at this event and see how God powerfully lifts the humble up to experience the great things he won for us.

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
12-8
12-11		13
12-12	51	51
St. John’s Altar Committee for November 2021:Kay Maass & Jennie Utke

Help us stay in touch! 

Scan the code below using your smartphone camera and fill out the prompted information. 

Don’t have a smartphone? That’s ok! Please fill out an attendance card located at the end of each pew and place it in the offering plate or give it to an usher. 

The 4^th Sunday of End Times

Christ the King

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

Pastor Peter Zietlow

November 20, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s 

November 21, 2021

8:00a.m. Emmanuel

10:00am. St. John’s 

† PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP †

We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.

OPENING HYMN                                                          CW 217, The Head that Once Was Crowned

† THE COMMON SERVICE †

 Please stand.

 M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 

CONFESSION OF SINS      

We confess to God that we have failed to live up to the perfect standards in his law, and we plead for his mercy.

M: Beloved in the Lord; let us draw near with a true heart and confess our sins to God our Father, asking him in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to grant us forgiveness. 

C: Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful and that I have disobeyed you in my thoughts, words and actions. I have done what is evil and failed to do what is good. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. But I am truly sorry for my sins, and trusting in my Savior Jesus Christ, I pray: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. 

LORD, HAVE MERCY

Kyrie

M: God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son † and of the Holy Spirit.  

M: In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.

GLORY BE TO GOD

Gloria in Excelsis

PRAYER OF THE DAY 

M: The Lord be with you. 

M: Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ, by your victory you have broken the power of the evil one. Fill our hearts with joy and peace as we look with hope to that day when every creature in heaven and earth will acclaim you King of kings and Lord of lords to your unending praise and glory; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. 

Please be seated for the day’s Scripture readings.

† THE WORD †

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

FIRST LESSON                                                                                                  Daniel 7:13, 14

Summary: The eternal King has an eternal Kingdom

 “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence.  He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”

PSALM 45

* Lectern side sings 1^st line, pulpit side sings 2^nd line, all sing refrains and Gloria. 

My heart is stirred by a noble theme*

as I recite my verses for the King.

You are the most excellent of men,*

and your lips have been anointed with grace.

Gird your sword upon your side, O Mighty One;*

clothe yourself with splendor and majesty.

In your majesty ride forth victoriously;*

let your right hand display awesome deeds.

Refrain

Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever;*

a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.

You love righteousness and hate wickedness;*

therefore God has anointed you with the oil of joy.

I will perpetuate your memory through all generations;*

therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

SECOND LESSON                                                                Revelation 1:4b-8 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: Jesus is the eternal Prophet, Priest, and King

 John, To the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen. “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

VERSE OF THE DAY                                                                              Revelation 22:13    

M: Alleluia. I am the Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON                                                                                              John 18: 33-37

Summary: Jesus is our true King

 Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” “Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?” “Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?” Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.” “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

NICENE CREED

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and became fully human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,

who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Be seated. 

HYMN OF THE DAY                                       CW 731, The King Will Come at Age’s End  

SERMON                                                                                              Revelation 1:4b-8

“BEHOLD YOUR KING”

1. He reveals the true God (4b-5a)
2. He rescues sinners (5b)
3. He restores our status (6)
4. He raises our eyes (7-8)

Please stand.

Please be seated.

CHRIST THE KING PRAYER

*Read responsively.

M: To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and 

power for ever and ever! 

C: Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory. 

M: You are worthy, 0 Christ our King, to receive honor and glory and praise, for you 

created all things and by your will they were created and have their being. 

C: Alleluia! For our Lord God Almighty reigns! 

M: You are worthy, 0 Christ our King, to receive honor and glory and praise because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased us for God. From every tribe and language and people and nation, you have called us into your kingdom and have made us priests to serve you, our God and Father.

C: Help us live as royal priests.

M: We give thanks to you, 0 Christ our Shepherd-King, because you have searched for us and found us. Lead us to the green pastures and quiet waters of your saving love, so that we may enjoy peace and comfort for our souls.

C: Heal our hearts when they are broken with sin and guilt. Strengthen us when 

we are weak. 

M: We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign. Come with your mighty power to break and defeat every evil plan and purpose of the devil, of the ungodly influences and ideas of the world, and of our own sinful nature. Use your power to calm the unrest among nations and peoples so that your kingdom may spread and grow.

C: Strengthen our confidence in knowing that your kingdom will never be destroyed. 

M: 0 Christ our King, you have supremacy over all. You will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples with equity. You have destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. Reign in our hearts that we may serve you more faithfully and speak more boldly to others of your saving love.

C: Praise be to the Lord God, who alone does marvelous deeds. May the whole earth be filled with his glory.

Special prayers and intercessions may follow.

M: Hear us, Lord, as we bring you our private petitions.

Silent prayer.

M: Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who

pierced him. The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever, King of kings and Lord of lords.

C: The Lord God Almighty reigns! Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! Amen.

Please stand. 

LORD’S PRAYER   

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.          

Please be seated.  

HYMN                                                                            CW 341:1-3, Crown Him with Many Crowns

M: Blessed Lord, you have given us your Holy Scriptures for our learning. May we so hear them, read, learn, and take them to heart, that being strengthened and comforted by your holy Word, we may cling to the blessed hope of everlasting life, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. 

M: The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.

The Lord look on you with favor and (+) give you peace.

Please be seated. 

CLOSING HYMN                                                            CW 341:4, Crown Him with Many Crowns

*Bulletin page 13.

† ANNOUNCEMENTS †

November 21-27

Sun.	9:00a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with mission presentation by Shannon Bohme, WELS Mission Journeys Coordinator
	8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
	9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship with mission presentation  by Shannon Bohme, WELS Mission Journeys Coordinator, and lunch
	11:15a.m.	Missions Presentation and Lunch at St. John’s
Mon.	8:00a.m.	School Chapel
	6:30p.m.	Joint Choir at St. John’s
	7:30p.m.	Adult Bible Study
Tues.
Wed.		No school – Thanksgiving break
	10:30a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	6:30p.m.	St. John’s Thanksgiving Devotion
Thurs.		Thanksgiving
	9:00a.m.	Emmanuel Thanksgiving Devotion
		No school – Thanksgiving break
Fri.		No school – Thanksgiving break
Sat.	4:30p.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
Next week’s theme:-  November 28, 2021Advent 1 –Prepare for Christ’s Coming: Your Redemption is Drawing Near
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion

† CHURCH NEWS †

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)

– For the sick and distressed…: Caryl Bassett, Mike Brown, Ed Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Jan Dahlke, Ann & Roberta Davison (Beth Johnson’s daughters), Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Donna Gatzke, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Bob Klapper, Arden Klimke, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Steve Parrish, Karen Radke, Wanda Sellnow (Principal Larry Sellnow’s mother), Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law) (added this week: )

– For Steve Hilke & Ariel Zellmer who were united in marriage on 10/29

– For Mrs. Sylvia Straschinske called at our 11/14 St. John’s Voters meeting to serve as Kindergarten teacher at St. John’s Lutheran School

– For WELS missions, including WELS Mission Journeys & Coordinator Mr. Shannon Bohme

SAVE THE DATE December 2, 2021 starting at 5:30 P.M.

Ladies Aid is inviting all members from St. John’s and Emmanuel to a potluck Christmas dinner. Sign up sheets for main dishes, salads or dessert will be in the linkway at St. John’s and in the entrance at Emmanuel. Plan to arrive about 5:30 for social hour with punch and snacks with dinner to follow at 6:00 P.M. Entertainment to follow dinner. 

HOLIDAY TRAIL St. John’s is participating in this year’s community Holiday Trail event. At our stop, we will have the Scholastic Bookfair, Thai Village craft sale and baked goods (by our St. John’s Cheerleading team and families). The date is Nov. 20 starting at 9:00a.m. in St. John’s gym. 

WLA CAPITAL CAMPAIGN Thank you from Winnebago Lutheran Academy for having us visit your church services recently.  It was a privilege to share with you some WLA Association news along with our plans to build a new high school campus.  Please contact Kevin Ehlke with any questions you may have at 920-539-4041 or kehlke@wlavikings.org. If you would like to give in support of our current capital campaign, please use the brochures provided at your church or go to our website forward.wlavikings.org/donate.  Gifts can be mailed to WLA or given online at our website.  Thank you for your continued support of WLA!

MISSION FESTIVAL COMING TO EMMANUEL & ST. JOHN’S on Sunday, November 21.  Guest speaker during worship services will be Mr. Shannon Bohme, coordinator of WELS Mission Journeys, which provides an opportunity for all WELS members to walk together in the Great Commission. Through church- or school-based volunteer trips to WELS mission fields at home and abroad, members have the opportunity to engage in Christian service.  Pre-trip training led by a team leader equips volunteers to have significant impact during their trip, which are self-funded by the team. While volunteering, the learning and sharing of outreach ideas will allow teams to explore how they can use their God-given abilities to engage in outreach activities in their home congregation upon their return home. With the Lord’s blessing, these trips will inspire a lifelong journey of service and outreach for all who volunteer.

   Following the 10 a.m. service at St. John’s, all are invited to a lunch (Freewill Offering will be taken) in the lower level.  Please plan to stay for a short afternoon presentation by Mr. Bohme. He will highlight what is happening in home missions and discuss where we want to go as a synod with 100 new church plants in 10 years starting in 2023!  That’s exciting mission work!

ADVENT PREPARES US FOR CHRISTMAS

Here’s a great way to get ready for Christmas! A midweek quiet time of worship and devotion is a good and God-pleasing way to celebrate the season. On Wednesdays, 3:30 (at Emmanuel) and 6:30 (at St. John’s) Advent devotions are being prepared for you. The theme for this year is: The Wonder of It All! Old Testament believers, Job, Noah, and a prophet named Joel, will help us see the Wonder of God’s Power, the Wonder of God’s Promise, and the Wonder of God’s Judgement. Take time this Advent to do this.

GIFTS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS Please consider making a gift towards the following church or school projects.  Your gift, to the project of your choice, will be recorded under your member account in our Shepherd’s Staff program unless you specifically request it be recorded as anonymous.  Donor names and gift amounts are not published.  Your gift can be placed in the offering plate, the locked drop box by the office, or mailed.  Please contact the church/school secretary, Ciara Neuhauser, if you have any questions.

Project Name & Brief Description___________________________________________          _                               Amount Needed                   

Church & School Computer Server Upgrade                                                                                                                  $5,851.64

(costs for replacing server)                                                

House Demolition                                                                                                           $9,500.00

(costs related to tear down of old Little Lambs house)                                                   

Church Piano                                                                                                                                                                            $4,000.00

Church A/V Upgrades                                                                                                                                                            $2,996.29

Ministerial Tuition Assistance                       –                                                                                                        No limit in place

(assistance for members pursuing the ministry)                     

Outreach Activities                                                                                                                                                     No limit in place

(church and/or school outreach supplies, fees)                                                         

St. John’s School Tuition Assistance                                         No limit in place

(assistance for parents of students)                                    

School Technology Fund                                                                                                                                           No limit in place

(maintain teacher and student computers, smartboards)                     

† SCHOOL NEWS †

SCHOLASTIC BOOKFAIR Today is the last day to visit the bookfair (open 9:30-11:30am) Don’t forget those Christmas gifts!

Christ the King

Fourth Sunday of End Time – B

God’s Word for Today

The majesty of the King of Kings shines forth in our readings for this morning. Jesus rules as King over all things. He deserves all glory, honor and praise. He is the eternal King who will come again in glory to judge. He is the King who left his majestic throne to humbly give his life for his subjects.

First Lesson (Daniel 7:13,14)

1. Who is the “Ancient of Days” mentioned in verse 13?
2. According to verse 14, what did Jesus receive?

Second Lesson (Revelation 1:4b-8)

3. According to verses five and six, what has Jesus our King done for us?
4. Verse seven tells us that our King is coming with the clouds and everyone will see him. What is he coming to do?
5. What does it mean that Jesus our King is the “Alpha and the Omega”?

Gospel (John 18:33-37)

6. How is Jesus different from the kings of this world?

Answers: 

1. The “Ancient of Days” is God the Father. The name “Ancient of Days” refers to the fact that he has existed from all eternity.
2. Having humbled himself to pay for the sins of the world, God the Father exalted Jesus once again to his rightful position as King of Kings. He received authority, glory and power. He receives the praise and worship that is his alone. His kingdom and power will never end.
3. Our King has freed us from sin by his blood. He has made us citizens of his heavenly kingdom. He has made us priests who have the right to approach him and serve him. To him be glory and power forever and ever!
4. He is coming to judge the living and the dead. Those who rejected him and continue to reject him will see him. He will send them to their eternal punishment in hell. He will then take us, his faithful subjects to be with him forever in his heavenly kingdom.
5. The letters Alpha (__) and Omega (__) are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. Jesus, our King, is the beginning and the end. He is eternal.
6. His kingdom is not of this world. Jesus is the king and ruler of all things in this world and the next. His kingdom will have no end. Geographical borders do not bind his subjects. Those on the side of truth, i.e., those that believe in Jesus are citizens of his kingdom. Jesus, our King, offered the ultimate sacrifice by dying on the cross in order to win for us salvation. As our King he offered his life in humble service.

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
11-13		16
11-14	29	97
St. John’s Altar Committee for November 2021:Kay Maass & Jennie Utke

It Is the Gift of God:

Celebrate Reformation Sunday 500 Years After the Diet at Worms

October 30, 2021

4:30 p.m. St. John’s

October 31, 2021

8 a.m. Emmanuel

10 a.m. St. John’s

Pastor Peter Zietlow

Pastor’s Greeting:  On April 18, 1521, Martin Luther stood to answer the questions put to him by the Roman church inquisitor Johann Eck, the secretary to the Archbishop of Trier.  He had received the papal decree earlier that demanded he recant his teaching or be excommunicated.  He had refused and Pope Leo declared him a heretic.  He was officially excommunicated ten days before the Diet, which was a formal assembly of churchmen, began.  After Luther’s opening statement, Eck told him all matters had long been settled by church councils; he was only to answer the question:  do you recant or not?  Luther’s answer: “Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Scriptures or by clear reason (for I do not trust either in the pope or in councils alone, since it is well known that they have often erred and contradicted themselves), I am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted, and my conscience is captive to the Word of God.  I cannot, and I will not retract anything since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience.  Here I stand; I cannot do otherwise; God help me!  Amen”

Congregation Hymn sung to the tune of CW 477 “What Is the World to Me”; 3 verses with new lyrics by Arden W. Mead interspersed with liturgy from Psalm 103 spoken responsively by Pastor and congregation:

By grace we have been saved, by God’s abundant favor.
 It is the gift of God through faith in Christ, our Savior.
  No merit may we claim, no effort of our own;
             It is the gift of God through faith in Christ alone. 

P With all my heart I praise the Lord, and with all that I am I praise his holy name!

C With all my heart I praise the Lord! I will never forget how kind he has been.

P The Lord forgives our sins, heals us when we are sick, and protects us from death.

C His kindness and love are a crown on our heads.

P Each day that we live, he provides for our needs.

C He gives us the strength of a young eagle.

P How great is God’s love for all who worship him?

C Greater than the distance between heaven and earth!

P How far has the Lord taken our sins from us?

C Farther than the distance from east to west!

When we were dead in sin, God sent his Son to save us.
  It is the gift of God that life eternal gave us.
             By God’s abundant grace we with the Lord are raised.
   It is the gift of God, whose name fore’er be praised.

P The Lord is always kind to those who worship him,

C and he keeps his promises to their descendants who faithfully obey him.

P God has set up his kingdom in heaven, and he rules the whole creation.

C Let all of God’s creation and all that he rules come and praise the Lord.

P With all my heart I praise the Lord.

We are God’s workmanship created in Christ Jesus.
          It is the gift of God that thus his mercy frees us
                   To live in holiness the life that God desires.
                      It is the gift of God that such good works inspires.

Prayer of the Day 

Your Word tells us, Lord, that it is by grace we are saved, not by works, and that it is a gift from God, lest anyone should boast. Let us bask in the blessing of this true gift from you of our salvation from sin, death and the devil, not because of anything we have done but because of what your Son did for us on the cross by dying in our stead for our transgressions and rising to life three days later that we might live a new life in heaven with you. May this miraculous message, uncovered again during the Reformation, which we celebrate this day, be our guiding light and our bold claim in how we live our lives for you. Amen.

Choir:  This Is My Word Text based on Isaiah 55:10-12; words and music by Pepper Choplin

The First Lesson  Isaiah 55:1-11

 “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; listen, that you may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a ruler and commander of the peoples. Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations you do not know will come running to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor.  Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.  Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.  ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the LORD.  ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.  As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,  so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.’”

Psalm 46  The Reformation Psalm is sung by the congregation to the tune of CW 441 “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” with words as follows:

God is our Refuge and our Strength, our Helper ever near.
 The Lord of hosts is on our side to shelter us from fear.

Though mountains fall and storms arise and fearful tempests blow,
Our God is with us, and he leads where peaceful waters flow.

God’s steadfast help will surely come as certain as the dawn.
The Lord of hosts is on our side, so let all fear be gone!

The trembling nations hear his voice, their awesome Sov’reign own:
“Be still, and know that I am God, and I will reign alone!”

Come and behold what God has done: as adversaries yield,
He breaks the bow and snaps the spear and burns with fire the shield.

O God our Refuge, God our Strength, accept the praise we bring
For mercy shown by grace alone through Christ, our Savior-King!

The Second Lesson, Ephesians 2:1-10  (Sermon Text)

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.  All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

The Alleluia verse is sung by the congregation to the tune of CW 322, “On What Has Now Been Sown”:

It is God’s gift alone that we to Christ belong,
                             Who claims us as his own and will our whole life long.
 Alleluia! By faith alone God’s gift we own. Alleluia!

Rise for The Gospel, John 17:1-10 

 After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.  For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.  Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.  I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.  And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.  I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word.  Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you.  For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me.  I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours.  All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them.

Congregational Hymn, CW Supplement 756, “We Walk by Faith and Not by Sight,”  5 verses

We walk by faith and not by sight;                                                No gracious words we hear                                                           From him who spoke as none e’er spoke,                                   But we believe him near.

We may not touch his hands and side                               Nor follow where he trod,                                                              But in his promise we rejoice                                             And cry, My Lord and God!”

Help then, O Lord, our unbelief,                                          And may our faith abound                                                    To call on you when you are near                                      And seek where you are found.

For you, O resurrected Lord,                                               Are found in means divine:                                           Beneath the water and the Word,                                    Beneath the bread and wine.

Lord, when our life of faith is done,                                         In realms of clearer light,                                                          We may behold you as you are                                         With full and endless sight.

The Sermon:  Ephesians 2:1-10  “By Grace You Are Saved” Grace that’s 1.Needed (vv 1-3)  2.Offered (vv 4-7)  3.Reflected (vv 8-10)

Rise for the Creedal Hymn sung by the congregation to the tune of CW 256, “How Great Thou Art”

We all believe in God, almighty Father
who shattered chaos, said, “Let there be light!”
Sun, moon and stars show forth his praise together,
All things on earth his wisdom and his might.
God loved the world so much he freely gave his only Son the lost to save.
God loves each child; by faith we understand it is God’s gift—a Father’s hand.

We all believe in God’s true Son, Christ Jesus,
Born of a virgin, for us crucified.
His holy death and resurrection frees us
To rise from sin, and in his grace abide.
Ascended to his throne in heav’n on high with saving love he still is nigh.
He will return as Shepherd, Judge and King. He is God’s gift—his praise we sing!

And we give thanks for God the Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Father and the Son,
By whose blest inspiration we inherit the benefits of all that Christ has done.
The holy Church is gathered ’round the Word where God’s good news in faith is heard.
Forgiven and forgiving, we shall rise to claim God’s gift of Paradise.

Piano Interlude  Keira Breiwa playing “Lord Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word” and Molly Utke playing “A Mighty Fortress is Our God”

Prayers based on Martin Luther’s Small Catechism Creed spoken responsively by Pastor and congregation:

P O God the Father Almighty, we offer our thanks for richly and daily providing us with all that we need to support the bodies you have given us and the lives we are privileged to live. 

C Make us truly grateful for your gifts of goods and clothing, house and home, spouse and children, property, and all that we call ours—that we may regard them as your blessings and dedicate them to your service.

P O Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, for us and for our salvation you became true man. 

C It is your gift alone that purchased and won us from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil—not with gold or silver, but with your holy, precious blood and your innocent suffering and death. Keep us firm in that saving faith.            

P O Holy Spirit, we acknowledge all the gifts of God today only because you have called us by the Gospel, enlightened us with your gifts, sanctified and kept us in the true faith.  Continue to inspire us in all these ways, we pray, that the things we do may show forth your glory.

C By your Word and sacraments, you have united us with the whole Christian Church on earth. Continue to call, gather, enlighten, and sanctify more believers, and keep them with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.    Amen

The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction  It is the gift of God that he has blessed us and keeps us.  The Lord bless you and keep you.  The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious unto you.  The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.  Amen.

The Closing Hymn, CW 201, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” 4 verses

A mighty fortress is our God, A trusty shield and weapon;

He helps us free from ev’ry need That has us now o’ertaken.

The old evil foe Now means deadly woe;

Deep guile and great might Are his dread arms in fight;

On earth is not his equal.

With might of ours can naught be done; Soon were our loss effected. But for us fights the valiant one Whom God himself elected.  You ask, “Who is this?” Jesus Christ it is,

The almighty Lord. And there’s no other God;

He holds the field forever.

Though devils all the world should fill, All eager to devour us,

We tremble not, we fear no ill; They shall not overpow’r us.

This world’s prince may still Scowl fierce as he will,

He can harm us none. He’s judged; the deed is done!

One little word can fell him.

The Word they still shall let remain, Nor any thanks have for it;

He’s by our side upon the plain With his good gifts and Spirit.

And do what they will—Hate, steal, hurt, or kill—

Though all may be gone, Our victory is won;

The kingdom’s ours forever!

Text: Martin Luther, 1483–1546; tr. composite.

† ANNOUNCEMENTS †

October 31 — November 6

Sun.	8:00a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
	9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship
Mon.	3:30p.m.	A Team Basketball starts in Princeton
	3:30p.m.	Cheerleading practice starts in Montello
	3:30p.m.	Hand In Prayer meeting at St. John’s
	6:30p.m.	Joint Choir at St. John’s
	7:30p.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
Tues.	8:00a.m.	School Chapel
	9:00a.m.	Joint Elders meeting at St. John’s
	3:30p.m.	C Team Basketball practice starts in Princeton
	6:30p.m.	Joint Worship meeting at St. John’s
Wed.	10:30a.m.	Adult Bible Study
	1:45p.m.	Early School Release
	2:15p.m.	Public Teen Confirmation Class at St. John’s
	2:30p.m.	St. John’s Faculty Bible Study
	6:30p.m.	Evangelism meeting at St. John’s
Thurs.	8:00a,m.	St. John’s Teen Confirmation class
	12:00p.m.	Ladies Aid  dessert & meeting
	3:30p.m.	A Team Basketball practice in Princeton
	3:30p.m.	C Team Basketball practice in Montello
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.	4:30p.m.	St. John’s Worship
Next week’s theme: November 7, 2021End Times 2: Last Judgement
	Day Light Savings Time
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
9:00a.m.	Emmanuel Council meeting
10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship

† CHURCH NEWS †

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)

– For the sick and distressed: Caryl Bassett, Mike Brown, Ed Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Jan Dahlke, Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Donna Gatzke, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Carol Hamberger, Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Bob Klapper, Arden Klimke, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Karen Radke, Wanda Sellnow (Principal Larry Sellnow’s mother), Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law) (added this week: )

– For the family of our St. John’s member Elsa Russell, called to her Savior’s side in heaven on Thursday 10/28

– Election Day (11/2)

SAVE THE DATE Our next Ladies Aid meeting is Thursday, Nov. 4 at 12:45p.m. This will be a dessert only (no lunch) meeting. See you there!

SAVE THE DATE Sunday, Nov. 14 at 11a.m. St. John’s Teacher Call Voters meeting. 

HANDS IN PRAYER The Hands In Prayer Group from Emmanuel and St. John’s church members want to invite anyone that would like to join us at our next meeting. At this meeting you will learn a little more about what we enjoy doing for our two churches and the community. We would love to have you join our Christian group.  This meeting will be held on November 1st at 3:30 PM in the church basement of St. John’s.  No crafting skills are needed.  Our meetings are based on Hebrews 10:24 & 25 – “Let’s us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let encourage one another – all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

JOINT REFORMATION SERVICE After a year’s hiatus, The WLA Association Joint Reformation Service will be on TODAY, October 31st, at 3:00 p.m., at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 1600 South Main Street, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.   The WLA Traveling Choir will be bringing God’s Word to us in song under the direction of Mr. Dale Witte, who will also serve as organist.  Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary’s Dean of Chapel, Rev. Aaron Christie, will be our guest preacher.  The presiding minister will be St. Peter’s new pastor, Rev. Luke Boehringer.  We pray you will come and praise God for allowing our congregations to build on the three pillars of the Lutheran Reformation—that we are saved:  Sola Gratia (by Grace Alone),  Sola Fide (by Faith Alone), and Sola Scriptura (by Scripture Alone).

WLA CAPITAL CAMPAIGN  Thank you from Winnebago Lutheran Academy for having us visit your church services recently.  It was a privilege to share with you some WLA Association news along with our plans to build a new high school campus.  Please contact Kevin Ehlke with any questions you may have at 920-539-4041 or kehlke@wlavikings.org. If you would like to give in support of our current capital campaign, please use the brochures provided at your church or go to our website forward.wlavikings.org/donate.  Gifts can be mailed to WLA or given online at our website.  Thank you for your continued support of WLA!

MISSION FESTIVAL COMING TO EMMANUEL & ST. JOHN’S on Sunday, November 21.  Guest speaker during worship services will be Mr. Shannon Bohme, coordinator of WELS Mission Journeys, which provides an opportunity for all WELS members to walk together in the Great Commission. Through church- or school-based volunteer trips to WELS mission fields at home and abroad, members have the opportunity to engage in Christian service.  Pre-trip training led by a team leader equips volunteers to have significant impact during their trip, which are self-funded by the team. While volunteering, the learning and sharing of outreach ideas will allow teams to explore how they can use their God-given abilities to engage in outreach activities in their home congregation upon their return home. With the Lord’s blessing, these trips will inspire a lifelong journey of service and outreach for all who volunteer.

   Following the 10 a.m. service at St. John’s, all are invited to a lunch (Freewill Offering will be taken) in the lower level.  Please plan to stay for a short afternoon presentation by Mr. Bohme. He will highlight what is happening in home missions and discuss where we want to go as a synod with 100 new church plants in 10 years starting in 2023!  That’s exciting mission work!

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY:  COLLECTING BOOKS FOR TOTS  FINAL CALL!! During October congregational members are invited to donate new or gently used storybooks for ages 1-5 for Smart Start Day Care, Inc. in Montello.  Board books would be especially welcome.  St. John’s Sunday School children are sponsoring this community service project.  They are learning to “shine for Jesus in their community.”  Will you help us?  A collection box is located in the linkway.

GIFTS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS Please consider making a gift towards the following church or school projects.  Your gift, to the project of your choice, will be recorded under your member account in our Shepherd’s Staff program unless you specifically request it be recorded as anonymous.  Donor names and gift amounts are not published.  Your gift can be placed in the offering plate, the locked drop box by the office, or mailed.  Please contact the church/school secretary, Ciara Neuhauser, if you have any questions.  

Project Name & Brief Description                                 Amount Needed   

Church & School Computer Server Upgrade                              $7,851.64

(costs for replacing server)                                                

House Demolition               $9,500.00

(costs related to tear down of old Little Lambs house)                                                   

Church Piano                                                                               $6,000.00

Church A/V Upgrades                                                                    $2,996.29

School Athletic Fund   $1,000.00

(jerseys, equipment, tournament fees)               

Ministerial Tuition Assistance                       –                     No limit in place

(assistance for members pursuing the ministry)                     

Outreach Activities                                                              No limit in place

(church and/or school outreach supplies, fees)                                                         

St. John’s School Tuition Assistance 

(assistance for parents of students)                     No limit in place

School Technology Fund                                                    No limit in place

(maintain teacher and student computers, smartboards)                     

† SCHOOL NEWS †

TRUNK OR TREAT Thank you to everyone who attended this year’s Trunk or Treat. What a great turn out it was! Be sure to check out our school Facebook page for pictures. A big thank you to everyone who volunteered their time to make this event happen. “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians 5:13 We hope this can continue to grow so we can continue to support those around us with God’s word and some fall fun…so spread the word for next year! 

BASKETBALL & CHEERLEADING Starts this week! A Team practice is Monday, Nov. 1 at 3:30pm in Princeton gym and Cheer practice is at 3:30pm in Montello gym. Player families: please refer to our Facebook groups for more information. Go Jaguars!

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
10-23		17
10-24	33	135
St. John’s Altar Committee for October 2021:Kathy North & Lucy Laun

The 20^th Sunday after Pentecost

God’s Gift of Marriage

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

Pastor Peter Zietlow

October 9, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s 

October 10, 2021

8:00a.m. Emmanuel

10:00a.m. St. John’s 

†PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP †

We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.

†SERVICE OF WORD AND SACRAMENT † 

The “Service of Word and Sacrament” is a version of the historic liturgy of the Christian church. This order may be used as an alternate to “The Common Service” when Holy Communion is celebrated.

OPENING HYMN                                                         CW 230, Lord Jesus Christ, Be Present Now

*Saturday only. 

JOINT CHOIR                                                                                  God’s Love and Power Proclaim

*Sunday, in place of opening hymn. 

Stand

M:     The grace of our Lord (+) Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.

C:     And also with you.

CONFESSION OF SINS 

M :    God invites us to come into his presence and worship him with humble and penitent hearts. Therefore, let us acknowledge our sinfulness and ask him to forgive us.

The congregation may kneel.

C:        Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful, and that I have disobeyed you in my thoughts, words, and actions. I have done what is evil and failed to do what is good. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. But I am truly sorry for my sins, and trusting in my Savior Jesus Christ, I pray: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.

M:       God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son (+) and of the Holy Spirit.

C:       Amen.

†PRAYER AND PRAISE †

LORD, HAVE MERCY

Kyrie

M:       For all that we need in life and for the wisdom to use all your gifts with gratitude and joy, hear our prayer, O Lord.

M:       For the steadfast assurance that nothing can separate us from your love and for the courage to stand firm against the assaults of Satan and every evil, hear our prayer, O Christ.

M:       For the well-being of your holy Church in all the world and for those who offer here their worship and praise, hear our prayer, O Lord.

M:       Merciful God, maker and preserver of life, uphold us by your power and keep us in your  tender care:

M:      The works of the Lord are great and glorious; his name is worthy of praise.

O LORD, OUR LORD

PRAYER OF THE DAY

M:       Let us pray.

            Almighty God, in your bountiful goodness keep us safe from every evil of body and soul. Make us ready, with cheerful hearts, to do whatever pleases you; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. 

Be seated

†THE WORD †

FIRST LESSON       Genesis 2:18-24    

Summary: God established marriage

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

¹⁹ Now the Lord God had formed out of the ground all the wild animals and all the birds in the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. ²⁰ So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals.

But for Adam^[a] no suitable helper was found. ²¹ So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man’s ribs^[b] and then closed up the place with flesh. ²² Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib^[c] he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.

²³ The man said,

“This is now bone of my bones
    and flesh of my flesh;
she shall be called ‘woman,’
    for she was taken out of man.”

²⁴ That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.

PSALM OF THE DAY 139b

Lectern side sings 1^st line, pulpit side sings 2^nd line, all sing refrains and Gloria. 

O LORD, you created my inmost being;*

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;*

your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you;*

your eyes saw my unformed body.

Refrain

All the days ordained for me*

were written in your book before one of them came to be.

How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!*

How vast is the sum of them!

Were I to count them,*

they would outnumber the grains of sand.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

SECOND LESSON                                                                                                        Ephesians 5:21-31

Summary: The roles of husband and wife

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord.  For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.  Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her  to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,  and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.  In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.  After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church—for we are members of his body.  “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”

VERSE OF THE DAY                                                                                                   Hebrews 2:12

M:       Alleluia. I will proclaim your name to my people; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you. Alleluia. 

Stand

GOSPEL                                                                               Mark 10:2-16 (today’s sermon text underlined)

Summary: Jesus teaches about marriage and family

Some Pharisees came and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?”

³ “What did Moses command you?” he replied.

⁴ They said, “Moses permitted a man to write a certificate of divorce and send her away.”

⁵ “It was because your hearts were hard that Moses wrote you this law,” Jesus replied. ⁶ “But at the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female.’^[a] 7 ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife,^[b] 8 and the two will become one flesh.’^[c] So they are no longer two, but one flesh. ⁹ Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

¹⁰ When they were in the house again, the disciples asked Jesus about this. ¹¹ He answered, “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. ¹² And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.”

¹³ People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. ¹⁴ When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ¹⁵ Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” ¹⁶ And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.

Be seated

HYMN OF THE DAY                                                                                             CW 600, O Perfect Love

SERMON         Mark 10:2-12

“God’s Design for Marriage Endures”

It is to be…

1. An intimate union (v. 2-8)
2. An undivided union (9-12)

Stand

NICENE CREED

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth,

of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God,

eternally begotten of the Father,

God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God,

begotten, not made,

of one being with the Father.

Through him all things were made.

For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven,

was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary,

and became fully human.

For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate.

He suffered death and was buried.

On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures.

He ascended into heaven

and is seated at the right hand of the Father.

He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,

and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit,

the Lord, the giver of life,

who proceeds from the Father and the Son,

who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified,

who has spoken through the prophets.

We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church.

We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.

We look for the resurrection of the dead 

and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Be seated

OFFERING

PRAYERS 

*Read by pastor.

Stand

LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

†THE SACRAMENT †

Our Lord Jesus has given us a holy supper in which we receive his true body and blood for the forgiveness of sins and the strengthening of our faith. In this supper we celebrate the gift of his redemption, we bear witness to the fellowship we share as confessors of the truth, and we proclaim his death until he returns. 

M:      The Lord be with you.

M:      Lift up your hearts.

M:      Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

M:       Praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In love he has blessed us with every spiritual blessing. By the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, he empowered his Church to be witnesses of Christ to the ends of the earth.

Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ. To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and thanks and honor and glory for ever and ever. 

HOLY, HOLY, HOLY 

Sanctus 

WORDS OF INSTITUTION 

Matthew 26:26-28; 1 Corinthians 11:24-25

As he speaks the Words of Institution, the minister both proclaims the words of Jesus to the congregation and sets apart the bread and wine for the Lord’s use. The sign of the cross reminds us of Christ’s death.

M:       Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night He was betrayed, took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.”

            Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is My blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”

             The peace of the Lord be with you always.

O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD 

Agnes Dei  

Be seated for the distribution

PERSONAL PRAYER BEFORE COMMUNION

Lord, I am not worthy to be a guest at your holy table. But you are the friend of sinners, and you will not cast me out. This bread is your body, which bore my sins upon the tree. This wine is your blood, which purifies me from all guilt. At your invitation, I come rejoicing. Receive me, my Savior. Amen.

At St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church we practice close Communion. If you are a guest at worship today and interested in receiving the Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor prior to the service. 

DISTIBUTION HYMN                                                                     CW 372, I Lay My Sins on Jesus

PERSONAL PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for nourishing me in this sacrament with your body and blood. You have given me forgiveness, life and salvation. Let me always remain in you as a branch remains in the vine. Send me out in the power of your Spirit to live and work to your praise and glory. O living Bread of heaven, how richly you have fed your guest! The gifts you now have given have filled my heart with joy and rest. Lord grant me that thus strengthened with heavenly good, while here my course on earth is lengthened, I serve with holy fear. And when you call my spirit to leave this world below, I enter through your merit where joys unmingled flow. Amen.

Stand

THANK THE LORD

M:       Hear the prayer of your people, O Lord, that the lips which have praised you here may glorify you in the world, that the eyes which have seen the coming of your Son may long for his coming again, and that all who have received in his true body and blood the pledge of your forgiveness may be restored to live a new and holy life, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. 

BLESSING

M:      Brothers and sisters, go in peace. Live in harmony with one another.

           Serve the Lord with gladness.

 The Lord bless you and keep you.

           The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.

           The Lord look on you with favor and (+) give you peace.

CLOSING HYMN                                                       CW 506, Oh, Blest the House, Whate’er Befall

† ANNOUNCEMENTS  †

October 10 – 16

Sun.	9:00a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
	8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
	9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
	11:00a.m.	WLA Presentation
	11:30a.m.	Voters meeting at St. John’s
Mon.	6:30p.m.	Joint Choir at St. John’s
		No Adult Bible Study
Tues.	8:00a.m.	School Chapel
Wed.		NO Adult Bible
	1:45p.m.	Early School Release
	2:15p.m.	School Faculty Bible Study
		NO Public Teen Confirmation Class at St. John’s
Thurs.		NO St. John’s Teen Confirmation Class
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.	4:30p.m.	St. John’s Worship
Next week’s theme:-  October 17, 2021The 21st Sunday after Pentecost:Beware of Greed
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
8:30a.m.	Sunday School at St. John’s
9:00a.m.	Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
10:00a.m.	St. John’s Worship
	LWMS Mission Pie Sale

†  C  H  U  R  C  H      N  E  W  S  †

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)

– For friends and loved ones in their need: Caryl Bassett, Mike Brown, Ed Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Jan Dahlke, Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Donna Gatzke, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Carol Hamberger, Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Bob Klapper, Arden Klimke, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Kathy Ninneman, Karen Radke, Elsa Russell, Wanda Sellnow (Principal Larry Sellnow’s mother), Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law) (added this week: Donna Gatzke )

– For Winnebago Lutheran Academy

– For our communicants

VOTERS MEETING TODAY Join us after our St. John’s worship! 

FALL LWMS MISSION OFFERINGS totaled $316.00.  75% goes to our present Beaver Dam Circuit projects:  HM-Family Ministry Outreach & WM-Central Africa Medical Mission.  25% goes to international LWMS projects to be voted on in spring.  Thank you to all who shared their gifts for missions!

MISSION FESTIVAL COMING TO EMMANUEL & ST. JOHN’S on Sunday, November 21.  Guest speaker during worship services will be Mr. Shannon Bohme, coordinator of WELS Mission Journeys, which provides an opportunity for all WELS members to walk together in the Great Commission. Through church- or school-based volunteer trips to WELS mission fields at home and abroad, members have the opportunity to engage in Christian service.  Pre-trip training led by a team leader equips volunteers to have significant impact during their trip, which are self-funded by the team. While volunteering, the learning and sharing of outreach ideas will allow teams to explore how they can use their God-given abilities to engage in outreach activities in their home congregation upon their return home. With the Lord’s blessing, these trips will inspire a lifelong journey of service and outreach for all who volunteer.

   Following the 10 a.m. service at St. John’s, all are invited to a lunch (Freewill Offering will be taken) in the lower level.  Please plan to stay for a short afternoon presentation by Mr. Bohme. He will highlight what is happening in home missions and discuss where we want to go as a synod with 100 new church plants in 10 years starting in 2023!  That’s exciting mission work!

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY:  COLLECTING BOOKS FOR TOTS  During October congregational members are invited to donate new or gently used storybooks for ages 1-5 for Smart Start Day Care, Inc. in Montello.  Board books would be especially welcome.  St. John’s Sunday School children are sponsoring this community service project.  They are learning to “shine for Jesus in their community.”  Will you help us?  A collection box is located in the linkway.

COMING NEXT SUNDAY – DELICIOUS PIES FOR SALE!  Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 17.  The women of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society are hosting a mission pie sale.  Plan to take home a delicious homemade pie for just $10.00.  All proceeds will help our local LWMS with mission projects and presentations.

SEND ONE SISTER  “Hooked forever!” That’s a common comment from women who have the opportunity to attend an LWMS Convention. Here’s another: “Once you’ve experienced the Convention, you don’t want to miss it! There’s no better place to hear and learn how our WELS missionaries and their families are working to spread God’s Word around the world! The 2022 annual Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society Convention will be held June 23-26 in Rochester, NY.  The Send One Sister program challenges LWMS Circuits to encourage first-time attendees by assisting them with expenses for their first Convention. Any woman who would like this opportunity at “free money” to attend a convention, must submit an application no later than October 1, 2021.  Ask Linda Wachholz (608-369-2635) for an application.

FALL LWMS RALLY TO BE HELD AT PRINCETON on Saturday, October 16.  Tom & Janie Niedfeldt (former owners of Tom’s Christian Tours) will speak about the mission work of distributing proclaimers, solar-powered audio Bibles that help our mission fields reach more people with the saving gospel message. 9:30 registration; 10:15 Bible study; 11:15 business meeting; 11:45 lunch; 12:45 devotion/speaker.  All are welcome!  “I will come and proclaim your mighty acts” Psalm 71:16.  A carpooling signup is located in the linkway or call your LWMS reporter, Emmanuel Helen Stelter 608-297-7116 or St. John’s Linda Wachholz 608-369-2635.

GIFTS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS Please consider making a gift towards the following church or school projects.  Your gift, to the project of your choice, will be recorded under your member account in our Shepherd’s Staff program unless you specifically request it be recorded as anonymous.  Donor names and gift amounts are not published.  Your gift can be placed in the offering plate, the locked drop box by the office, or mailed.  Please contact the church/school secretary, Ciara Neuhauser, if you have any questions.  

Project Name & Brief Description                                                                                                                   Amount Needed

Church & School Computer Server Upgrade (costs for replacing server)                                                             $7,851.64

House Demolition (costs related to tear down of old Little Lambs house)                                                   $9,500.00

Church Piano                                                                                                                                                                           $6,000.00

Church A/V Upgrades                                                                                                                                                           $2,996.29

School Athletic Fund (jerseys, equipment, tournament fees)                                                       $1,000.00

Ministerial Tuition Assistance (assistance for members pursuing the ministry)                     No limit in place

Outreach Activities (church and/or school outreach supplies, fees)                                                         No limit in place 

St. John’s School Tuition Assistance (assistance for parents of students)                     No limit in place

School Technology Fund (maintain teacher and student computers, smartboards)                     No limit in place

†  S  C  H  O  O  L      N  E  W  S  †

SAVE THE DATE: TRUNK OR TREAT Wednesday, October 27 at 4:00pm at St. John’s parking lot. 

Don’t Underestimate Jesus and His People!

Pentecost 20 – B

God’s Word for Today

God’s plan for man was perfect. He created woman for man. They were to “become one flesh”. Sin entered the world and separation replaced union – separation from God and from one another. Divorce brings suffering. But thanks be to God, Jesus “even suffered death, so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone” and create new life and new promise of union.

First Lesson (Genesis 2: 18-24)

1. What lesson did God teach Adam by having him name the animals?

2. What does the expression “one flesh” mean?

Second Lesson (Hebrews 2: 9-11)

3. Does the word “perfect” mean Jesus wasn’t perfect?

4.What was Jesus’ goal in life?

Gospel (Mark 10: 2-16)

5. If marriage is to be forever, why did Moses hand down some conditions that made divorce possible?

6. What remains God’s standard for marriage?

Answers:

1. God taught Adam that he was incomplete and needed companionship as well someone to partner with him for reproduction.

2. The phrase “one flesh” expresses the depth of unity in marriage – physically, emotionally and spiritually. Since the woman was created from man, the two originally were one, and when they came together, they again are one.

3. Jesus, being God from eternity and without sin, already was perfect. However, through His incarnation, life, suffering and death, He acquired the experience and knowledge of what it is like to be human.

4. Jesus’ goal was to “redeem those under law.” He accomplished that goal through suffering. He did this by submitting himself to the Law.

5. Moses handed down some conditions for divorce only because the people had totally disregarded God’s will for them. Their hearts were hard.

6. God’s standard for marriage is the union of a man and a woman for life.  “Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.”

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
10-2
10-3	39
St. John’s Altar Committee for October 2021:Kathy North & Lucy Laun

St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church

Montello, WI 

August 23, 2021

In loving memory of 

Donald Smith

March 31, 1929 – August 19, 2021

In loving memory of 

Donald Smith

March 31, 1929 – August 19, 2021

† CHRISTIAN FUNERAL †

This order of worship is intended for the funeral or memorial service of one who has departed from this life in the Christian faith. With the Word of God, the Christian church comforts the bereaved family and friends and confesses its lasting hope in the resurrection of the dead in Christ.

GREETING AND PRAYER

M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

We have come together to seek God’s comfort in our sorrow and to rejoice in the promise of the resurrection. Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who said, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus, you wept at the grave of your friend Lazarus, and you consoled Mary and Martha in their distress. Draw near to us who mourn for ______, and dry the tears of all who weep. Calm our troubled hearts, dispel our doubts and fears, and lead us to praise you for having brought him to faith. In your rising from the dead, you conquered death and opened the gates to eternal life. Strengthen us with your Word, and lead us through this earthly life until at last we are united with you and all the saints in glory everlasting. Amen.

PSALM 23

The Lord is My Shepherd

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
     He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
     he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

HYMN       The Old Rugged Cross

Will enter…

RESURRECTION COMFORT

M: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. The apostle Paul writes to the Romans: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Jesus gives us this comfort: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.”

M: Death has been swallowed up in victory! Thanks be to God!

C: He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

M: When Christ, who is our life, appears,

C: Then we also will appear with him in glory.

M: We will be before the throne of God

C: And serve him day and night in his temple.

M: Never again will we hunger;

C: Never again will we thirst.

M: For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be our shepherd; he will lead us to springs of living water.

C: And God will wipe away every tear from our eyes.

M: Let us pray.

God of all grace, you sent your Son Jesus to destroy the power of death and to open the kingdom of heaven to all believers. Make us certain that because he lives, we too shall live. Comfort us with your promise that neither death nor life nor things present nor things to come shall be able to separate us from your love which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

C: Amen.

SCRIPTURE LESSONS

John 16:22

So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.

Romans 6:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in^[a] Christ Jesus our Lord.

Revelation 21:1-4

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,”^[a] for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. ² I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. ³ And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ⁴ ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’^[b] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

HYMN 379                                Amazing Grace – How Sweet the Sound

Will enter…

SERMON                                                                                                                                                         Romans 6:23 

            “Sin’s Wages & God’s Gift”

APOSTLES’ CREED

I believe in God, the Father almighty,

maker of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, 

born of the virgin Mary, 

suffered under Pontius Pilate, 

was crucified, died, and was buried.

He descended into hell.

The third day he rose again from the dead.

He ascended into heaven

and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.

From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy Christian Church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

DUET                                                                   The Lord’s Prayer

*Sung by Julie & Paige Klawitter.

PRAYERS

The following responsive prayer or another prayer may be said.

M: Almighty God, we praise you for the great company of saints who have finished their lives in faith and now rest from their labors. We remember especially our loved one, ______, whom you have redeemed by the blood of your Son and received as your dear child through Holy Baptism. We thank you for giving him to us as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your compassion, comfort all who are sad in this hour. Lord, in your mercy,

C: Hear our prayer.

M: We praise you for your love in Christ, which sustains us in life and death. In our earthly sorrows, help us find strength in the fellowship of the church, joy in the forgiveness of sins, and hope in the resurrection to eternal life. Lord, in your mercy,

C: Hear our prayer.

M: You do not leave us comfortless but strengthen and care for us through your Word and sacrament. You give us family, friends, and neighbors to help when there is loneliness now and in the days to come. Brighten our future with a firm trust in your promises and care. Lord, in your mercy,

C: Hear our prayer.

A special prayer or intercession may follow.

M: Remove our fears, and make us bold to pray with confidence as our Savior has taught us:

LORD’S PRAYER

C: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

BLESSING

M: The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.

The Lord look on you with favor and (+) give you peace.

C: Amen.

RECESSION

Donald Glenville Smith, age 92 of Dalton passed away peacefully Thursday, August 19, 2021 surrounded by his family at his home.  Don was born in Galesburg, North Dakota to Henry and Selma (Stundahl) Smith on March 31, 1929.  He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army.  On October 10, 1953, Don was united in marriage to Doris Irene Peterson in Hendrum, MN.   

Don owned and operated several Locker Plants/Grocery Stores in Minnesota and North Dakota before becoming an Union Ironworker.  After retirement, Don was the founder and operated Grandpa’s Shelters & Sheds.  He and Doris moved to Buffalo Township in 1964 and became involved in the community.  Don served on the Marquette and Columbia County Fair Boards, State of Wisconsin Association of Fairs, Marquette County 4-H Leadership Association as well as being a proud member of American Legion Post #351 of Montello and Ironworkers Union #383 for many years.  He was a longtime member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Montello.  

He enjoyed playing cards, rollerskating, dancing, traveling and spending time with friends and family.  Don will be remembered for being a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather.  He created a replica model in honor of the 100^th Anniversary of the Ferris Wheel, it can be seen at the Marquette County Historical Society in Westfield.  In 1994, Don was inducted into The Hall of Fame of the Wisconsin Association of Fairs.  Don was a long time active member of the American Legion with 72 years of continuous service.  In 2021, Don designed and donated a Legionnaire Trailer to be used in parades to transport The American Legion Honor Guard; with the help of many, the trailer was completed and it’s first parade was the 2021 4th of July Parade in Harrisville.  He always had a secret cookie for his grandkids in his pocket and will be remembered for his sense of humor.  

Don leaves behind his wife of 67 years, Doris and four children:  Lana (Tim) Madole of Salem, Cheryl Smith of Dalton, Jeff of Dalton and Jody (Michelle) of Montello as well as seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by sisters:  Phyllis Farrell of Dalton and Shirley Fleith of Jamestown, ND as well as many Godchildren and other extended family members. 

Don is preceded in death by his parents, son, Donald Dean Smith, brothers: Theodore “Palmer”, Sivert, Harold, Hans Peter, Dwayne; sisters: Grace Hunter, Thelma Hahn-Burkle, Betty Lou Peterson, Verna Roidt and Dee Rhodes. 

A special thank you to the St. Croix Hospice Team, Sandy Gerbitz, Rebecca Kearns and April Petroski.  Thank You for all the care, support and your dedication was remarkable.  

A funeral service for Donald Smith will be held on Monday, August 23, 2021 at 11:30 AM at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Montello.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 until 11:15 AM at the church.  Pastor Pete Zietlow will preside and immediately following the service military honors will be performed by American Legion Post #351.  Following the traditional service, Donald will be cremated and inurned at the Greenwood Cemetery, Town of Buffalo.  In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the family for several memorials that will be established in Don’s name. 

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family.  www.CrawfordFH.com