We dedicate our new hymnals today to the glory of our Lord. A hymnal contains the forms which bring to us God’s precious means of grace: the Gospel in Word and Sacraments. A hymnal contains many of the songs and prayers we use together to ask God’s grace and respond to it. A hymnal helps shape the bond of faith not only within a congregation but also among congregations united in a synod. A hymnal expresses the bond we share with saints of past centuries and brings us new songs for our time and for the future. So today it is our special joy to dedicate our new worship book to the glory of our Lord.
Stand
InvocationCW 154
Rite of Dedication
M: We gather today to dedicate our new hymnals.
C: We give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
M: Gracious Father, we know you desire to be with us. You delight in hearing the prayers and praise of your people.
C: Thank you, Lord, for the privilege of being your people, for the blessing of worship, for the comfort and strength you give in this place, for the praise and joy you prompt in our hearts.
M: We thank you for your many gifts: for language, for music, and for the liturgy as a setting for your marvelous grace in Baptism, in Holy Communion, and in the proclamation of your Word.
C: Bless us as we use this book.
M: Lord, you gifted the many people who helped prepare this book. Their service to you and to us is a rich blessing. For those who have labored diligently in developing this worship book,
C: We thank you, O Lord.
M: For those who use their time and ability to assist our worship – for those who lead us in worship, for singers and all other musicians, for those who prepare your house each week, for talent with flowers, banners, and all other arts,
C: We thank you, O Lord.
M: Lord, we confess that we have not always put our hearts and minds into worship as you desire. Forgive our sins of approaching you too casually, carelessly, infrequently, or without concentration on your presence in worship.
C: Send your Holy Spirit so that the words and music of this hymnal become the sincere prayers and praise of our hearts.
M: Bless our use of old songs and forms, that we more deeply recognize our connection with your people of all times and the value of their contribution to our worship.
C: Bless our use of new liturgies and songs, that we see anew the wonder of your ways and the privilege we have to praise you.
M: Bless us as we receive your priceless gifts and express our faith to you and to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
C: Bless our sincere participation in worship.
M: May others who do not yet know you learn something of your love and power through all we do here.
C: Move us to commit ourselves – heart and mind – to this vital part of our lives called worship.
M: To your glory, O Lord, and for the edification of your holy people we dedicate these hymnals, in the name of the Father and of the Son † and of the Holy Spirit.
C: Amen.
483 Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty Congregation
Text and music: Public domain
Confession CW 154
Absolution CW 154
Lord, Have Mercy CW 156
Glory Be to God CW 157
The Word CW 160
Salutation CW 160
Prayer of the DayCW 160
First Reading Isaiah 6:1-8
In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.”4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. 5 “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. 7 With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for. ”8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”
And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Psalm 67E O God, Show Us Your Mercy
O God, show us your mercy
and bless us with your grace;
and cause to shine upon us
the brightness of your face,
that so your way most holy
on earth may soon be known,
and unto ev’ry people
your saving grace be shown.
Let all the peoples praise you,
let all the nations sing;
in ev’ry land let praises
and songs of gladness ring.
For you will judge the peoples
in truth and righteousness,
your rule of perfect justice
all nations will confess.
Let all the peoples praise you,
let all the nations sing;
then earth in rich abundance
to us its fruit shall bring.
The Lord our God will bless us,
his richest blessing send,
and all creation praise him
to earth’s remotest end.
Second Reading 1 Corinthians 14:12b-20
12 So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church. 13 For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret what they say. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. 15 So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding. 16 Otherwise when you are praising God in the Spirit, how can someone else, who is now put in the position of an inquirer,[a] say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since they do not know what you are saying? 17 You are giving thanks well enough, but no one else is edified. 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20 Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
Gospel Acclamation CW 161
Gospel Luke 5:1-11
One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret,[a] the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. 2 He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. 3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.
745 Hark, the Voice of Jesus Crying Congregation
Text and music: Public domain
Sermon Luke 5:1-11, “Let Down Your Nets for a Catch!”
Begin with listening to Jesus’ advice
Requires trusting Jesus’ power
Involves leaving things behind for Jesus
Apostles’ Creed CW 163
Prayer of the Church CW 164
Offering
549: 1,2 Across the Lands Choir
Text and music: Keith Getty, b. 1974; Stuart Townend, b. 1963; arr. Ruth N. Coleman, b. 1953
Lord’s Prayer CW 171
Blessing CW 171
549: 3 Across the Lands Congregation
Text and music: Keith Getty, b. 1974; Stuart Townend, b. 1963; arr. Ruth N. Coleman, b. 1953
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: “Wehave 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 DayPastor
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.
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.
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 inthe 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 MessagePastor
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 ina 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” AllChildren; 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 toldus 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 TimeGrades 3-4-5
Song “Light One Candle“Grades 1-5
Recitation: Getting ReadyGrade 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.
RecitationGrades 1-2
with Chorus “Twinkle, Twinkle” All Children
Recitation: Everything Is ReadyGrades 3-4-5
Hymn “Oh, How I Love Jesus”AllChildren
Hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem” Congregation
1. O little town of Bethlehem, how still we seethee 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!
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!
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: StarPreK & 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 SonGrades 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 SYSTEMUsing 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)
What was the covenant that God had made with Abraham?
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)
What do you understand by “when the time had fully come?”
What is the result of Jesus coming?
Gospel (Luke 1:68-75)
What did Zechariah acknowledge (v.72) when he broke into song at the birth of John the Baptist?
What is the result of God accomplishing his promise? (v.74-75)
Answers:
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?)
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.
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!
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?)
He saw this as the fulfillment of the “holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham” (See the Genesis 17 reading)
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.
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 LESSONHebrews 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!”
He came according to promise
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)
What is going to make little Bethlehem great?
What effect will that child of Bethlehem have on us today?
Second Lesson (Hebrews 10:5-10)
Why wasn’t God pleased with the sacrifices of the Old Testament times?
What assurances do you have now that Jesus has finished his work?
Gospel (Luke 1:39-55)
What amazing thing happened when Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting.
What does Mary’s song reveal?
Answers:
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.
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?)
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.
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?
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!
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.
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 1st line, pulpit side sings 2nd 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”
He reveals the true God (4b-5a)
He rescues sinners (5b)
He restores our status (6)
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)
Who is the “Ancient of Days” mentioned in verse 13?
According to verse 14, what did Jesus receive?
Second Lesson (Revelation 1:4b-8)
According to verses five and six, what has Jesus our King done for us?
Verse seven tells us that our King is coming with the clouds and everyone will see him. What is he coming to do?
What does it mean that Jesus our King is the “Alpha and the Omega”?
Gospel (John 18:33-37)
How is Jesus different from the kings of this world?
Answers:
The “Ancient of Days” is God the Father. The name “Ancient of Days” refers to the fact that he has existed from all eternity.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
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!
CWith 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.
CHis kindness and love are a crown on our heads.
P Each day that we live, he provides for our needs.
CHe gives us the strength of a young eagle.
P How great is God’s love for all who worship him?
CGreater than the distance between heaven and earth!
P How far has the Lord taken our sins from us?
CFarther 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,
Cand 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.
CLet 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 usTo 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 TheGospel, 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 5:13We 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
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 1st line, pulpit side sings 2nd 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…
An intimate union (v. 2-8)
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 PRAYERAFTER 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 PROJECTSPlease 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
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 379Amazing 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 100th 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
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 779, “I Sing as I Rise Today”
† T H E C O M M O N S E R V I C E †
Please stand.
M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
C: Amen.
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
C: Lord have mercy on us, Christ have mercy on us, Lord have mercy on us.
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.
M: In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.
GLORY BE TO GOD
Gloria in Excelsis
C: Glory be to God on high, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
We praise you, we bless you, we worship you,
we glorify you, we give thanks to you, your great glory,
O Lord God, heav’nly King, God the Father almighty.
O Lord, the only begotten Son, Jesus Christ;
O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us.
You take away the sin of the world; receive our prayer.
You sit at the right hand of God the Father; have mercy on us.
For you only are holy; you only are the Lord.
You only, O Christ, with the Holy Spirit, are most high in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: The Lord be with you.
C: And also with you.
M: Let us pray.
Almighty and merciful God, it is only by your gift of grace that we come into your presence and offer true and faithful service. Grant that our worship on earth may always be pleasing to you, and in the life to come give us the fulfillment of what you have promised; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
C: Amen.
Please be seated for the day’s Scripture readings.
† T H E W O R D †
The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.
FIRST LESSON Proverbs 9:1-6
Summary: Wisdom has set her table
Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn out its seven pillars. She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine; she has also set her table. She has sent out her maids, and she calls from the highest point of the city. “Let all who are simple come in here!” she says to those who lack judgment. “Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of understanding.
PSALM 1
* Lectern side sing 1st line, pulpit side sing 2nd line, all sing refrains and Gloria.
Refrain: Blessed are they who hope, who hope in the Lord.
Blessed is the man
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked*
or stand in the way of sinners.
But his delight is in the law of the LORD,*
and on his law he meditates day and night.
He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season*
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
Refrain
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,*
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,*
but the way of the wicked will perish.
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 5:15-20
Summary: Be filled with the Spirit
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
VERSE OF THE DAY Hebrews 4:12
M: Alleluia. The Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Alleluia.
C: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Please stand.
GOSPEL LESSON John 6; 47-58 (today’s sermon text underlined)
C: Glory be to you, O Lord!
Summary: Eating and drinking Christ by faith
Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, yet they died. But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which anyone may eat and not die.
I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”
Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”
Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live forever.”
C: Praise be to you, O Christ!
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 185, ”O Holy Spirit, Grant Us Grace”
SERMON John 6: 51-58
Work and Strive for the Bread of Life
It alone has legitimate value
It alone has lasting benefits
Please stand.
C: Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your HolySpirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with your free Spirit. Amen.
Please be seated.
† O F F E R I N G S O F G I F T S & P R A Y E R S †
THE OFFERING
Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord. Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained. Guests need not feel obligated to contribute. The plate is located in the church entryway.
PRAYERS
The Offering Prayer, Prayer for Faithfulness to God and Intercessory Prayers are spoken by pastor. Please see announcement details of today’s Intercessory Prayers.
Please stand.
LORD’S PRAYER
All: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.
† H O L Y C O M M U N I O N †
PREFACE
M: The Lord be with you.
C: And also with you.
M: Lift up your hearts.
C: We lift them up unto the Lord.
M: Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God.
C: It is good and right so to do.
M: It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give you thanks, O Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who promised that wherever two or three come together in his name, there he is with them to shepherd his flock till he comes again in glory. Therefore, with all the saints on earth and hosts of heaven, we praise your holy name and join their glorious song:
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY
Sanctus
C: Holy, holy, holy Lord God of heavenly hosts: heav’n and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he, blessed is he, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna in the highest.
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
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.”
M: The peace of the Lord be with you always.
C: Amen.
O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD
Agnus Dei
C: O Christ, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us.
O Christ, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us.
O Christ, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; grant us your peace. Amen.
Be seated.
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.
DISTRIBUTION
During the distribution the congregation may sing one or more hymns.
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.
DISTRIBUTION HYMNS CW 354, “Lamb of God, We Fall before You”
*Sunday only,
PERSONAL PRAYERAFTER 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.
Please stand.
SONG OF SIMEON
Nunc Dimittis
C: Lord, now you let your servant depart in peace according to your word. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared before the face of all people, a light to lighten the Gentiles and the glory of your people Israel.
M: O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
C: And his mercy endures forever.
M: We give thanks, almighty God, that you have refreshed us with this holy supper. We pray that through it you will strengthen our faith in you and increase our love for one another. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
C: Amen.
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. Amen. Amen.
Please be seated.
CLOSING HYMN CW 616, “Feed Your Children, God Most Holy”
† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †
August 22 – 28
Sun.
8:00a.m.
Emmanuel Worship with communion
10:00a.m.
St. John’s Worship with communion
Mon.
6:30p.m.
Joint Choir resumes at St. John’s
Tues.
3:00p.m.
First day of soccer (3rd – 8th grade)
Wed.
10:00a.m.
Montello Care Center Devotion
5:30p.m.
Faculty/Staff Gathering at Sellnow’s
Thurs.
3:00p.m.
Soccer practice (3rd – 8th grade)
Fri.
Sat.
4:30p.m.
St. John’s Worship
Next week’s theme:- August 29, 2021 The 14thSunday after Pentecost: Faith Generates the Right Choice–Following Christ
8:00 a.m.
Emmanuel Worship
10:00 a.m.
St. John’s Worship
† C H U R C H N E W S †
INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)
– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & 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, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Arden Klimke, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Neil Miller, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Kathy Ninneman, Karen Radke, Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Linda Lou Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), Shirley Wilkens (added this week: )
– For the family of Michael Albrecht of Christ Alone–Mequon, our former principal at St. John’s–Montello, called to his eternal home on 8/15 at the age of 52
– For Gene & Sharon Crook who will celebrate their 62nd wedding anniversary on 8/22
– For Earl “Pete” and Lucy Laun who will celebrate their 52nd wedding anniversary on 8/23
– For the family of our St. John’s member, Don Smith, called to his heavenly home on 8/19
– For the suffering and dying here in the US and overseas in Afghanistan & Haiti
– For our communicants
NATIONAL HYMNAL SUNDAY, SEPT. 19 There will be sign up sheets for the National Hymnal Sunday celebration on September 19, to help Ladies Aid plan on how many people will be attending the potluck luncheon. At Emmanuel the sheets will be in the hallway. At St. John’s they will be in the linkway on the table where the display is. The sheets will out starting the weekend of August 28 and 29 and the final date for sign up will be September 12. If you miss signing up, we encourage and welcome you to join and attend the celebratory potluck on Sunday, September 19.
ST. JOHN’S / EMMANUEL JOINT CHOIR will be starting this Monday, August 23. We will be preparing for National Hymnal Sunday for the next two weeks. We will not have choir practice on Labor Day, but we will continue practice on Mondays at 6:30 for the rest of the year. All members high school age and older are welcome to join! Please contact Lynn Sellnow if you have any questions(email: lynnsellnow@stjohnsmontello.org phone: 616-826-0816).
Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 1 Chronicles 16:9
NEW SIDEWALK The sidewalk along the west side of St. John’s has been replaced this summer. Memorial gifts received in memory of Robert Mateske, Sr. made this project possible.
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE will take place at the Endeavor, WI fire station on Friday, August 27 from 11am – 6pm. You may register online or call Ruth Jones 608-587-2646. Thank you for giving!
SATURDAY WORSHIP SERVICES No Saturday 4:30pm St. John’s worship service on 9/11 & 9/18.
CHRISTIAN ONE LINERS (from a member) “When you get to your wit’s end, you’ll find God lives there.”
CROSSES The Time of the Church is the longest season of the church year. Green represents growth-growing the Church through witnessing and missions-becoming “fishers of men.”
This season appears 1st and 2nd Sunday of Epiphany and ends Transfiguration Sunday just before Lent. It reappears the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost and ends on Reformation Sunday.
Please pick up your ribbon today! If you are in need of a cross or would like to gift to someone, please help yourself. They are available and both Emmanuel and St. John’s. Thank you again to Gene Crook (Emmanuel) and LuAnn Zieman (St. John’s) for creating and coordinating!
CHURCH NEWSLETTER The St. John’s church newsletter will be sent out via email to the congregations. Need to sign up on our mailing list? Please call the office. If you wish to receive a hard copy, we offer a yearly subscription for $10.00.
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
School HVAC Purifying System (air purifying system installed for classrooms) Donation received Thank you to our anonymous donator!
Church & School Computer Server Upgrade (costs for replacing server) $10,351.64
House Demolition (costs related to tear down of old Little Lambs house) $9,500.00
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
School Athletic Fund (jerseys, equipment, tournament 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 †
Jesus Gives the Bread of Life
That Our Faith Might Not Stumble
The Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost – B
God’s Word for Today
Living as a Christian in this world is not an easy thing to do. The devil will place many obstacles in our way, all of which are bound to sin and unbelief. But Jesus has won the victory over Satan and gives us a way out of every temptation (1 Co 10:13). Most of all, our Savior gives us his words of promise, forgiveness and life, the Bread of Life. As we nourish our faith on this Bread of Life, we will be emboldened in our struggles against our spiritual enemies.
First Lesson (Proverbs 9:1-6)
What “main character” do we meet in these verses, and what are her characteristics?
What invitation does she offer to all?
Second Lesson (Ephesians 5:15-20)
What encouragement does Paul give in verse 15?
How are we to speak to one another as Christians?
Gospel (John 6:51-58)
True or false: Jesus is talking about Holy Communion in these verses.
What’s the difference between the manna that was sent in Old Testament times and the Bread of Life?
Answers:
We meet wisdom. She is prepared for a feast and very hospitable.
Wisdom invites us to come to her home and eat, to walk in the way of understanding, and to leave our simpleton, worldly way of thinking. Such heavenly wisdom leads us on the right path that our faith might not stumble.
Paul encourages us to be careful in how we live our lives as Christians, to be wise in the decisions we make, understanding the Lord’s will for us.
We aren’t to use unwholesome talk. Instead, we should speak to one another spiritually, “with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs … giving thanks to God the Father for everything.”
False. Holy Communion had not yet been instituted when Jesus spoke these words in John 6. Instead, when Jesus says that we must eat his flesh and drink his blood to have eternal life, he’s talking about faith in him, spiritual eating. Jesus’ flesh and blood (his humanity) can be a huge stumbling block to people’s faith. Isaiah prophesied that the Savior would “have no beauty or majesty to attract us to him” (53:2). This Jesus was a homeless man (Lk 9:58) from an insignificant city (Jn 1:46). When people saw Jesus’ flesh and blood, it was difficult to believe that he was the Messiah. Even John the Baptist would wonder whether Jesus was who he claimed to be (Mt 11:2-6).
The sending of manna came to an end; Jesus, the Bread of Life, endures forever and gives eternal life.
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
8-14
10
8-15
51
102
St. John’s Altar Committee for August 2021:Lucy Laun&Kathy North
The Source of Spiritual Food for Spiritual Strength and Life
St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches
Montello & Mecan, WI
Pastor Peter Zietlow
August 14, 2021
4:30p.m. St. John’s
August 15, 2021
8:00a.m. Emmanuel
10:00a.m. St. John’s
St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church 313 East Montello St. Montello, WI 53949
Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949
WELCOME TO OUR CHURCH We extend a warm welcome to everyone worshiping with us today! We ask God that he fill our hearts with peace, joy and understanding as we praise Him together.
WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES † Sunday: 8:00a.m. at Emmanuel 10:00a.m. at St. John’s † Saturday: 4:30p.m. at St. John’s
Each worship service is posted to our website. If you don’t have internet access or are unable to attend today’s service, DVDs, sermons and the bulletin are available for your use at home. You may pick them up in the office or request them to be mailed. Please contact our secretary Ciara Neuhauser at the church office or Pastor Zietlow.
HOLY COMMUNION Communion is offered at both Emmanuel and St. John’s on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month and at St. John’s on the Saturdays before those Sundays. Private communion by request is also available from Pastor Zietlow or a church Elder at your home. Please call Pastor or the church office to schedule private communion.
GOD’S WORD FOR TODAYJesus Gives the Bread of Life That We Might Fulfill the Impossible – Have you ever been faced with an impossible task? When a job seems impossible, it’s difficult and frustrating to even attempt fulfilling it. For Christians, trusting in Jesus, believing his promises and loving others as he loves us sometimes seems impossible. But in today’s lessons we are shown how Jesus gives us the ability to fulfill impossible tasks by giving us the Bread of Life. Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing (Jn 15:5). But with God, nothing is impossible (Lk 1:37).
†P R E P A R A T I O N F O R W O R S H I P †
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.
*Saturday, St. John’s and Emmanuel, please proceed to bulletin page 5 and begin with Divine Service II.
†H O L Y B A P T I S M A T S T. J O H N ‘ S ·S U N D A Y †
This order incorporates Holy Baptism into congregational worship combining the sacrament of baptism with the confession of sins. Martin Luther said that confessing sins and receiving forgiveness is nothing else than a reliving of baptism. Thus this order provides opportunity not only to baptize but also to recall the lasting blessings of baptism.
HYMN CW 296:1-2, “Our Children Jesus Calls”
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: Our Savior Jesus Christ commanded baptism when he said: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” All of us are born into this world with a deep need for baptism. From our parents we inherit a sinful nature; we are without true fear of God and true faith in God and are condemned to eternal death. But Jesus took away our sin by giving his life on the cross. At our baptism he clothes us with the robe of his righteousness and gives us a new life. Our sinful nature need not control us any longer. We recall what baptism means for our daily lives as we speak these words:
C: Baptism means that the sinful nature in us should be drowned by daily sorrow and repentance, and that all its evil deeds and desires be put to death. It also means that a new person should daily arise to live before God in righteousness and purity forever.
M: As baptized children of God we confess our sins:
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.
The Rite of Baptism continues at the font.
SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM
M: In obedience to the command of our Lord and trusting in his promise, you have brought this child to be baptized. Jesus told us: “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” It is in baptism that God grants the new life of forgiveness, joy, and peace to little children. By the power of God’s Word, this gracious water of life washes away sin, delivers from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe.
The minister applies water to the person presented for baptism as he says:
____, I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
The Almighty God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—has forgiven all your sins. By your baptism, you are born again and made a dear child of your Father in heaven. May God strengthen you to live in your baptismal grace all the days of your life. Peace be with you.
Please stand.
EXHORTATION
M: Brothers and sisters in Christ:
Our Lord commands that we teach his precious truths to all who are baptized. Christian love therefore urges all of us, especially parents and sponsors, to assist in whatever manner possible so that ____ may remain a child of God until death. If you are willing to carry out this responsibility, then answer: Yes, as God gives me strength.
C: Yes, as God gives me strength.
M: Let us pray:
Merciful Father in heaven, we thank you for the blessing of baptism by which you offer and grant the forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation. Help us to regard our baptism as the robe of righteousness we are to wear all the days of our life. Look with special favor on ____ and grant him a rich measure of your Spirit that he may grow in faith and godly living. Make us willing to carry out our responsibilities to those who have been baptized, so that all of us may finally come to the blessed joys of heaven, through Jesus our Lord.
C: Amen.
Please be seated.
HYMN CW 296:3, “Our Children Jesus Calls”
†D I V I N E S E R V I C E II †
Divine Service II is a version of the historic liturgy of the Christian church.
HYMN CW 108, “Jesus, Refuge of the Weary”
Please stand.
INVOCATION
The name of the triune God and the sign of the cross remind worshipers of their baptisms.
M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
C: Amen.
CONFESSION
M: Friends, let us approach God with a true heart and confess our sins, asking Him in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to forgive us.
C: Lord of life, I confess that I am by nature dead in sin.
For faithless worrying and selfish pride, for sins of habit and sins of choice, for the evil I have done and the good I have failed to do, You should cast me away from Your presence forever. O Lord, I am sorry for my sins. Forgive me, for Jesus’ sake.
ABSOLUTION
The use of the keys is that special power and right which Christ gave to His church on earth: to forgive the sins of penitent sinners. John 20:21-23
M: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. In His great mercy, God made us alive in Christ even when we were dead in our sins. Hear the Word of Christ through His called servant:
I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
C: Amen.
LORD, HAVE MERCY
Kyrie: Kyrie is the Greek word for Lord. The expression “Lord, have mercy” is one of the oldest worship responses in the Christian church. Mark 10:47
M: In peace, let us pray to the Lord.
For the well-being of all people everywhere, that they may receive from You all they need to sustain body and life, hear our prayer, O Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.
M: For the spread of Your life-giving Gospel throughout the world, that all who are lost in sin may be brought to faith in You, hear our prayer, O Christ.
C: Christ, have mercy.
M: For patience and perseverance in this life, that we may not lose the hope of heaven as we await Your return, hear our prayer, O Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.
M: Lord of life, live in us that we may live for You.
C: Amen.
GLORY BE TO GOD
Luke 2:14 (sung to the tune of Hymn 152 “I Know that My Redeemer Lives”. Christians praise God by proclaiming the great things He has done to accomplish our rescue from sin. “Glory to God in the Highest” has been a Christian song of worship since the fourth century.
All glory be to God on high! Your name, O Lord, we glorify;
We praise You for Your peace and grace, Your favor toward our fallen race.
Our grateful thanks to You we bring, for Your great glory, heav’nly King,
For all, O Father, You have done, through Jesus Christ, Your only Son.
O Lamb of God, to You we pray. You take all human sin away.
Have mercy, Lord; receive our prayer; from God’s right hand, Your mercy share.
You, Christ, are holy– Lord alone; the Father’s glory You made known.
We by Your Spirit sing again: “All glory be to God!” Amen.
†T H E W O R D †
SALUTATION
This greeting has deep roots in Christian worship and marks the beginning of the Word section of this service.
M: The Lord be with you.
C: And also with you.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Let us pray. Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve. Pour upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Please be seated.
FIRST LESSON 1 Kings 19:3-8 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: An angel strengthens Elijah
Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, LORD,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep.
All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.
PSALM 34
Saturday: sing in unison.
Sunday: men sing 1st line, women sing 2nd line, all sing refrains and Gloria.
Taste and see that the LORD is good;*
blessed are they who take refuge in him.
The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous*
and his ears are attentive to their cry.
The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,*
and he delivers them.
Refrain
The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;*
he delivers them from all their troubles.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted*
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
The LORD redeems his servants;*
no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.
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 4:30–5:2
Summary: Spiritual living flows from God who has forgiven us
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
VERSE OF THE DAY Hebrews 11:1
Alleluia. Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Alleluia.
Please stand.
GOSPEL LESSON
M: The Gospel according to John 6: 41-51.
C: Glory be to You, O Lord.
Summary: Jesus is the Bread of Life, the True Source of Spiritual Food
At this the Jews began to grumble about him because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” They said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, ‘I came down from heaven’?”
“Stop grumbling among yourselves,” Jesus answered. “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the Prophets: ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me. No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the Father. I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life. I am the bread of life. Your forefathers ate the manna in the desert, yet they died. But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which a man may eat and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”
M: This is the Gospel of the Lord.
C: Praise be to You, O Christ.
Please be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY CW 446“I Am Trusting You, Lord Jesus”
SERMON 1 Kings 19:3-9
“We’ve Got Nowhere To Go But To God”
Giving up (3, 4)
Getting help (5-7)
Going on (8)
Please stand.
NICENE CREED
Public confession is faith’s response to God’s saving Word. Christians composed the Nicene Creed in the fourth century to defend the Bible’s teachings that both Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are true God, equal to the Father in one eternal, undivided Trinity.
C: 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.
Please be seated.
†O F F E R I N G S O F G I F T S & P R A Y E R S †
THE OFFERING
Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord. Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained. Guests need not feel obligated to contribute. The plate is located in the church entryway.
PRAYERS
The Offering Prayer, Prayer for Delight In God’s Word Both His Laws and His Promises and Intercessory Prayers are spoken by pastor. Please see announcement details of today’s Intercessory Prayers.
Please stand.
LORD’S PRAYER
All: 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.
HYMN CW 473:1-3,“Savior, I Follow On”
CLOSING PRAYER & 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.
Next week’s theme: August 22, 2021 The 13thSunday after Pentecost: Eating Spiritual Food Equals Believing in Christ
8:00 a.m.
Emmanuel Worship with communion
10:00 a.m.
St. John’s Worship with communion
† C H U R C H N E W S †
INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)
– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & 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, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Arden Klimke, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Neil Miller, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Kathy Ninneman, Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, Don & Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Linda Lou Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), Shirley Wilkens (added this week: Louise Hillmer, Roger Hillmer, Arden Klimke, Kathy Ninneman, Shirley Wilkens)
– For the family of our St. John’s member, Liola Crown, called to her heavenly home Wednesday evening (8/11)
– For Salem Adonis Michael Bignell, the son of Michael Bignell and Destiny Thome, baptized today (8/15) at St. John’s
– For blessings received
NATIONAL HYMNAL SUNDAY, SEPT. 19 There will be sign up sheets for the National Hymnal Sunday celebration on September 19, to help Ladies Aid plan on how many people will be attending the potluck luncheon. At Emmanuel the sheets will be in the hallway. At St. John’s they will be in the linkway on the table where the display is. The sheets will out starting the weekend of August 28 and 29 and the final date for sign up will be September 12. If you miss signing up, we encourage and welcome you to join and attend the celebratory potluck on Sunday, September 19.
CHRISTIAN ONE LINERS (from a member) “Well, this explains a lot! A pastor said: “You need to join the Army of the Lord!” My friend replied, “I’m already in the Army of the Lord, Pastor.” Pastor questioned, “How come I don’t see you except at Christmas and Easter?” He whispered back, “I’m in the secret service.”
CROSSES The Time of the Church is the longest season of the church year. Green represents growth-growing the Church through witnessing and missions-becoming “fishers of men.”
This season appears 1st and 2nd Sunday of Epiphany and ends Transfiguration Sunday just before Lent. It reappears the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost and ends on Reformation Sunday.
Please pick up your ribbon today! If you are in need of a cross or would like to gift to someone, please help yourself. They are available and both Emmanuel and St. John’s. Thank you again to Gene Crook (Emmanuel) and LuAnn Zieman (St. John’s) for creating and coordinating!
CHURCH NEWSLETTER The St. John’s church newsletter will be sent out via email to the congregations. Need to sign up on our mailing list? Please call the office. If you wish to receive a hard copy, we offer a yearly subscription for $10.00.
GIFTS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTSPlease 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
School HVAC Purifying System (air purifying system installed for classrooms) $1,770.00
Church & School Computer Server Upgrade (costs for replacing server) $10,351.64
House Demolition (costs related to tear down of old Little Lambs house) $9,500.00
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
School Athletic Fund (jerseys, equipment, tournament 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 †
Jesus Gives the Bread of Life
That We Might Fulfill the Impossible
The Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost – B
God’s Word for Today
Have you ever been faced with an impossible task? When a job seems impossible, it’s difficult and frustrating to even attempt fulfilling it. For Christians, trusting in Jesus, believing his promises and loving others as he loves us sometimes seems impossible. But in today’s lessons we are shown how Jesus gives us the ability to fulfill impossible tasks by giving us the Bread of Life. Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing (Jn 15:5). But with God, nothing is impossible (Lk 1:37).
First Lesson (1 Kings 19:3-8)
What was Elijah grumbling about?
What did the Lord command Elijah to do?
Second Lesson (Ephesians 4:30 – 5:2)
What model of love does Paul present in these verses?
How is that love going to manifest itself, according to Paul?
Is it easy to show this type of unconditional love to others?
Gospel (John 6:41-51)
With what statement of Jesus were the people have difficulty and why? How did Jesus react?
What important truth about our Christian lives does Jesus make clear in verses 44-45?
Answers:
Elijah was complaining about his life as a prophet of God. He was being chased by wicked Queen Jezebel (1 Kgs 19:2), and now he simply wanted to die.
The Lord wanted him to get up and eat. He sustained Elijah when the prophet thought that his situation was impossible.
Paul encourages us to love others just as Christ loves us. Jesus’ love is a sacrificial and forgiving love.
Paul gives an extensive list in 4:31-32.
For sinners like us it is impossible to have this type of love for one another unless Jesus gives us the Bread of Life, his Word of forgiveness. Jesus’ love and forgiveness for us moves us to love others in similar ways.
They grumbled at the fact that Jesus called himself the “bread that came down from heaven.” His claim that he was from heaven seemed to be blasphemous. Jesus told them to stop their grumbling.
Jesus points out that apart from the working of his heavenly Father, we are unable to believe in him and come to him. The Father does this work of winning and wooing us to faith through the Holy Spirit (cf. 1 Co 2:9-10). The Holy Spirit brings us to faith by supplying us with the Bread of Life, the truth about Jesus our Savior. Apart from the working of the Holy Trinity, our faith in Jesus would be an impossible task for us.
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
7-31
12
8-1
57
108
8-7
8-8
50
St. John’s Altar Committee for August 2021:Lucy Laun&Kathy North
●●● Welcome To Our Visitors! Find & Like us on Facebook Visit our website:www.stjohnsmontello.org Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail:zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816 K, 1st & 2nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554 3rd-5th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021 Principal & 6th – 8th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow:616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail:scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org ●●●
