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 ●●●
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 during this Pentecost season. WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES † Saturday: 4:30p.m. at St. John’s † Sunday: 8:00a.m. at Emmanuel 10:00a.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 TODAYToday’s theme: The 10th Sunday after Pentecost – Jesus Gives the Bread of Life To Unify Us in Faith, Love and Purpose – It’s easy to become distracted as a member of a Christian congregation. Sometimes false teaching and opinions destroy a congregation’s unity. Sometimes it’s just plain hard to get along with your fellow Christians, and often long-standing resentment follows. Sometimes congregations get caught up in too many “projects” and “programs” that take them off their divine purpose. Only Jesus can overcome such distractions. He gives us his Word, the Bread of Life, to unify us in faith, love and purpose.
†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.
OPENING HYMN CWS 232, “Lord of My Life, Whose Tender Care”
† S E R V I C E O F THE W O R D †
Please 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
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:We have come into the presence of God, who created us to love and serve him as his dear children. But we have disobeyed him and deserve only his wrath and punishment. Therefore, let us confess our sins to him and plead for his mercy.
C: Merciful Father in heaven, I am altogether sinful from birth. In countless ways I have sinned against you and do not deserve to be called your child. But trusting in Jesus, my Savior, I pray: Have mercy on me according to your unfailing love. Cleanse me from my sin, and take away my guilt.
M:God, our heavenly Father, has forgiven all your sins. By the perfect life and innocent death of our Lord Jesus Christ, he has removed your guilt forever. You are his own dear child. May God give you strength to live according to his will.
C: Amen.
PRAYER AND PRAISE
M: In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.
OH, TASTE AND SEE
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Let us pray.
O Lord, your ears are always open to the prayers of your humble servants, who come to you in Jesus’ name. Teach us always to ask according to your will that we may never fail to obtain the blessings 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.
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 Exodus 24:3-11 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: A marvelous fellowship meal at Mt. Sinai pictures the fellowship we have with God in Christ
When Moses went and told the people all the LORD’s words and laws, they responded with one voice, “Everything the LORD has said we will do.” Moses then wrote down everything the LORD had said.
He got up early the next morning and built an altar at the foot of the mountain and set up twelve stone pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Then he sent young Israelite men, and they offered burnt offerings and sacrificed young bulls as fellowship offerings to the LORD. Moses took half of the blood and put it in bowls, and the other half he sprinkled on the altar. Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it to the people. They responded, “We will do everything the LORD has said; we will obey.”
Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, “This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you in accordance with all these words.”
Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel went up and saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of sapphire, clear as the sky itself. But God did not raise his hand against these leaders of the Israelites; they saw God, and they ate and drank.
PSALM 84
*Saturday: Sing in unison.
* Sunday: Cantor sings 1st line, congregation sings 2nd line, all sing refrains and Gloria.
How lovely is your dwelling place,*
O LORD Almighty!
My soul yearns, even faints,*
for the courts of the LORD.
Blessed are those who dwell in your house;*
they are ever praising you.
Refrain
Better is one day in your courts*
than a thousand elsewhere;
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God*
than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
O LORD Almighty,*
blessed are they who trust in you.
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.
SECOND LESSON Ephesians 4:1-7,11-16
Summary: Fellowship with God means unity with fellow Christians
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. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit– just as you were called to one hope when you were called– one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
VERSE OF THE DAY John 6:68
M: Alleluia. Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.
Please stand
GOSPEL LESSON John 6:1-15
Summary: A miraculous meal demonstrates the power of the true Prophet who came to give us fellowship with God
Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the miraculous signs he had performed on the sick. Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples. The Jewish Passover Feast was near.
When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.
Philip answered him, “Eight months’ wages (Greek-two hundred Denarii)would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!”
Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”
Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and the men sat down, about five thousand of them. Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.
When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.
After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.
Please be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY CW 538, “The Church’s One Foundation”
SERMON Exodus 24: 3-11
“HERE’S HOW WE GET IN GOOD WITH GOD”
Our relationship with God is…
Purchased with a hero’s blood (v. 4b-6, 8)
Personalized through the holy Word (v. 3-4a, 7, 12)
Pictured by a heavenly meal (9-11)
Please stand.
APOSTLES’ CREED
All: 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.
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 God’s Children to Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness 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 494, “Blest Be the Tie that Binds”
M:O Lord God, our heavenly Father, pour out the Holy Spirit on your faithful people. Keep us strong in your grace and truth, protect and comfort us in all temptation, and bestow on us your saving peace, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
M: As you go from here, remember this:
God’s love is from everlasting to everlasting,
from generation to generation.
Just as a father has compassion on his children
so God has compassion on those who fear him,
who listen to his voice,
and who do his will.
Go out in the knowledge that the everlasting love of God goes with you.
Amen.
Please be seated.
CLOSING HYMN CW 616, “Feed Your Children, God Most Holy”
School & Little Lambs Registration in St. John’s gym
Mon.
6:00p.m.
Principals’ Conference – Redeemer, FDL
Tues.
9:00a.m.
Joint Elders meeting at St. John’s
Wed.
Thurs.
12:00p.m.
Ladies Aid lunch and meeting at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.
4:30p.m.
St. John’s Worship
5:30p.m.
Evangelism meeting at St. John’s
Next week’s theme: August 8, 2021 The 11thSunday after Pentecost: To Attain Spiritual Food: Human Efforts Fail; God’s Gift Prevails
8:00 a.m.
Emmanuel Worship
9:00a.m.
Emmanuel Congregational meeting
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, Cheri Borzick, 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, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Neil Miller, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer & son Tim, Don & Doris Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Jennifer Strauss, Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), (added this week: )
-For Salem Adonis Michael Bignell, the son of our St. John’s member Michael Bignell and Destiny Thome, born on 7/12.
-For the family of Kenny Hillmer, our St. John’s member called to his heavenly home on 7/25.
– For marriage
– For missions
NEW CHRISTIAN WORSHIP HYMNAL PRE ORDER Be sure to check out our new CW hymnal display in Emmanuel parish hall and St. John’s link way. Here, you can also find a pre order sign up. The cost per hymnal is $24 each. You can submit your payment to Ciara in the office.
Starting today, St. John’s and Emmanuel also have weekly informational short videos and fliers, leading up to National Hymnal Sunday (Sept. 19), that will give you a better understanding of our new CW hymnal and what’s to come. You can find these on our Facebook page, website: www.stjohnsmontello.org, and email.
ATTENTION SOFTBALL PLAYERS OF EMMANUEL AND ST JOHN’S At 6:30pm, there is adult softball on the baseball diamond behind St. John’s. This is open to men and women who have graduated high school (recently or a long time ago!). We are not preparing for a future event, just gathering in fellowship and activity during the warmer months of the year. See you then!
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.
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
CHRISTIAN ONE LINERS (from a member) “It is easier to preach ten sermons than to live one.”
† S C H O O L N E W S †
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
Jesus Gives the Bread of Life
To Unify Us in Faith, Love and Purpose
The Tenth Sunday after Pentecost – B
God’s Word for Today
It’s easy to become distracted as a member of a Christian congregation. Sometimes false teaching and opinions destroy a congregation’s unity. Sometimes it’s just plain hard to get along with your fellow Christians, and often long-standing resentment follows. Sometimes congregations get caught up in too many “projects” and “programs” that take them off their divine purpose. Only Jesus can overcome such distractions. He gives us his Word, the Bread of Life, to unify us in faith, love and purpose.
First Lesson (Exodus 24:3-11)
How did the people respond to the words and laws that Moses brought them from the Lord?
In what two ways was this covenant (agreement) with the Lord sealed?
Second Lesson (Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16)
What concept does Paul emphasize in verses 2-7?
What special gifts has Jesus given to his Church? What is the ultimate purpose of their work in the Church?
How is unity attained in the Church?
Gospel (John 6:1-15)
What concern did Jesus have for the great crowds who were following him? What was Philip’s response?
How did Jesus show his power? How did some wrongly react to Jesus’ miracle?
Answers:
They said with one voice that they would do everything the Lord had commanded.
Moses sealed the covenant by sprinkling the people with the blood of the covenant. The Lord sealed the covenant by eating and drinking with the seventy elders of Israel.
Paul emphasizes that Christians are to desire unity and “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” That means being “humble and gentle.” We need to “be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Jesus has given the Church public ministers of the gospel (“pastors and teachers”). The ultimate purpose of their work is that the Church might “reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature.”
Unity is reached through a faithful proclamation of the truth, the Word of God, the Bread of Life.
Jesus wanted to give the people something to eat. Philip thought that it was the people’s responsibility to find food for themselves.
Jesus fed the entire crowd with just two fish and five loaves of bread. Some people, seeing this miracle, wanted to make Jesus a worldly king by force. But Jesus had not come principally to give physical bread but spiritual bread, the Bread of Life.
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
7-24
7-25
St. John’s Altar Committee for July 2021:Lucy Laun&Kathy North
SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
Monday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm
●●● 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 ●●●
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 226, “To Your Temple I Draw Near”
† 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.
M: Grant us, Lord, the spirit to think and do what is right that we, who cannot do anything that is good without you, may by your help be enabled to live according to your will; 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 Jeremiah 23:1-6
Summary: The Messiah is the true Shepherd, the Lord our Righteousness
“Woe to the shepherds who are destroying and scattering the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord. Therefore this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says to the shepherds who tend my people: “Because you have scattered my flock and driven them away and have not bestowed care on them, I will bestow punishment on you for the evil you have done,” declares the Lord. “I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and increase in number. I will place shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or terrified, nor will any be missing,” declares the Lord.
“The days are coming,” declares the Lord,
“when I will raise up for David[a] a righteous Branch,
a King who will reign wisely
and do what is just and right in the land.
In his days Judah will be saved
and Israel will live in safety.
This is the name by which he will be called:
The Lord Our Righteous Savior.
PSALM 23
* All sing in unison.
Refrain: The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
The LORD is my shepherd,*
I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;*
he leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;*
he guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,*
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Refrain
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.*
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,*
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
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 2:13-22
Summary: The Shepherd is also the Cornerstone of the Church, his believing sheep
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
VERSE OF THE DAY Isaiah 55:11b
M: Alleluia. My Word will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Alleluia.
C: ♪ Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Please stand.
GOSPEL LESSON Mark 4:35-41
C: ♪ Glory be to you, O Lord!
Mark 6:30-34 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: The compassionate Shepherd gives spiritual rest: the forgiveness of sins, life & salvation
The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
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 772, “When Jesus Came From Nazareth”
SERMON Mark 6: 30-34
Our Accountability and Jesus’ Compassion
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 the Spread of God’s Word in Our Country 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 to 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.
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 309, “Draw Near and Take the Body of the Lord”
CW 545: 1-2, “Send, O Lord, Your Holy Spirit”
*On Sunday only.
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 545, “Send, O Lord, Your Holy Spirit”
*On Saturday, sing all verses. On Sunday, sing verses 3.
*See above.
WELS CONNECTION
*Sunday at St. John’s.
Songs are reprinted under OneLicense.net #A-722228.
Next week’s theme: August 1, 2021 The 10thSunday after Pentecost: A Miraculous Meal Points to Fellowship With God
8:00 a.m.
Emmanuel Worship
9:00a.m.
Emmanuel Council meeting
10:00 a.m.
St. John’s Worship
11:00a.m.
School & Little Lambs Registration in St. John’s gym
† 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, Cheri Borzick, 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, Ken & Louise Hillmer, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Neil Miller, Shelley Myers, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer & son Tim, Don & Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Jennifer Strauss, Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), (added this week: )
– For our synod (7/26-28 WELS Convention in-person & Zoom at LPS–Watertown–Emmanuel lay-delegate Darrell Buchholz)
– For contentment
– For our communicants
ATTENTION SOFTBALL PLAYERS OF EMMANUEL AND ST JOHN’S Starting this Sunday, July 25 @ 6:30pm, there will be adult softball on the baseball diamond behind St. John’s. This is open to men and women who have graduated high school (recently or a long time ago!). We are not preparing for a future event, just gathering in fellowship and activity during the warmer months of the year. See you then!
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.
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
CHRISTIAN ONE LINERS (from a member) “Many Christians want to serve God…but only as advisers.”
† S C H O O L N E W S †
SCHOOL AND LITTLE LAMBS REGISTRATION Sunday, August 1 at 11:00a.m. in St. John’s gym. You can find all registration materials online at our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org under the School option. Please bring your completed materials that day along with payment. We look forward to seeing you and the students!
KWIK TRIP/SUBWAY AND HOT LUNCH These services will be available for any school family that would like to sign up this year at registration. We look to start in October. More information will be sent home at a later date.
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
Jesus Gives the Bread of Life
By His Faithful Word
The Ninth Sunday after Pentecost – B
God’s Word for Today
Last week we saw how Jesus gives the Bread of Life through faithful public ministers. This week we focus on their message. In order to be a faithful public minister, you must proclaim God’s faithful Word. When people don’t proclaim the whole truth of God, they destroy faith and ultimately turn people away from Jesus. It is only through his faithful Word that Jesus creates and strengthens faith (Ro 10:17). Nothing else will do!
First Lesson (Jeremiah 23:1-6)
Who were these “shepherds” (prophets) who were destroying and scattering the Lord’s flock (his people)?
Since others were not faithfully proclaiming his Word, what did the Lord plan to do?
Second Lesson (Ephesians 2:13-22)
3. How did Jesus bring together the Jews and the Gentiles into one Christian Church? (vv 15-16)
4. Upon what does Paul say this Christian Church is built?
Gospel (Mark 6:30-34)
5. What did Jesus want his disciples to have? What stopped them?
6. How did Jesus feel about the crowds that followed him? Why did he feel that way?
7. How did Jesus respond to the people’s needs?
Answers:
The shepherds to which God refers are the false prophets in Judah during the days of Jeremiah.
The Lord would come himself, in the person of Jesus Christ, to shepherd his flock by his faithful Word.
Jesus brought these two groups together by fulfilling and abolishing the Old Testament law, which separated the Jews and Gentiles. Salvation and membership in the Church is not to be based on following certain rules and regulations, as so many still preach today. Instead, Jesus won forgiveness, salvation and entry into eternal life for all people through his death on the cross and powerful Easter resurrection from the dead.
The Church is founded upon the faithful word of the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament apostles. Jesus, who is himself the Word of God (Jn 1:1), is the chief cornerstone.
Jesus wanted his disciples to have a vacation. They didn’t get it when large crowds followed them wherever they went.
Mark says that he had compassion on them because, spiritually-speaking, they were wandering aimlessly like lost sheep with shepherd.
He began to give them the Bread of Life by his faithful Word, teaching them to truths of God.
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
7-10
10
7-11
55
77
7-17
11
7-18
43
135
St. John’s Altar Committee for July 2021:Lucy Laun&Kathy North
WELCOME TO OUR CHURCH HE IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN INDEED! ALLELUIA! 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 during this Easter season.
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 TODAYToday’s theme: 8th Sunday after Pentecost – Jesus Gives the Bread of Life Through Faithful Public Preachers – It’s not easy giving a faithful proclamation of God’s Word. Public ministers serve as God’s representative to a sinful world, and the world is often not willing to accept God’s message of truth. The Old Testament prophet Amos found that out; St. Paul found that out; Jesus’ newly-called apostles would find that out. Yet faithful public preachers are a most necessary and divinely-instituted way in which the gospel of Jesus is proclaimed to all nations. Thank God for faithful public preachers and teachers of the gospel! By them Jesus gives us the Bread of Life.
†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.
WELS CONNECTION
*Sunday only.
† G A T H E R I N G R I T E O N T H E W O R D O F G O D†
God’s people long ago gather together for strength from God and for mutual encouragement. This alternate beginning for worship may be used on any occasion to remind God’s people of the blessings of his Word.
Please stand.
M: In the name of the Father and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Spirit.
C: Amen.
HYMN 221: 1 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word
1 Blessed Jesus, at your Word We are gathered all to hear you.
Let our hearts and souls be stirred Now to seek and love and fear you,
By your teachings, sweet and holy, Drawn from earth to love you solely.
M: Oh, how I love your law!
C: I meditate on it all day long.
M: Your commands make me wiser than my enemies,
C: for they are ever with me.
M: I have more insight than all my teachers,
C: for I meditate on your statutes.
M: How sweet are your words to my taste,
C: sweeter than honey to my mouth!
HYMN 221: 2 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word
2 All our knowledge, sense, and sight Lie in deepest darkness shrouded
Till your Spirit breaks our night With the beams of truth unclouded.
You alone to God can win us; You must work all good within us.
M: All scripture is God- breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
C: so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Tim. 3:16,17
M: Yet so often we have despised God’s Word and failed to gladly hear and learn it. For this and all our sins, we bow before God and humbly ask his 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.
HYMN 221: 3 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word
3 Gracious Savior, good and kind, Light from Light, from God proceeding,
Open now our heart and mind; Help us by your Spirit’s pleading.
Hear the cry your people raises; Hear and bless our prayers and praises.
M: God gave his Word so ”that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31). The Scriptures testify about Jesus, who lived a perfect life for you, died on the cross to pay for all your sins, and rose again to assure you of your salvation. 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: (spoken) Amen.
HYMN 221: 4 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word
4 Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Praise to you and adoration!
Grant that we your Word may trust, Confident of our salvation,
While we here below must wander, Till we sing your praises yonder.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Almighty God, we thank you for planting in us the seed of your Word. By your Holy Spirit help us to receive it with joy and to bring forth fruits in faith and hope and love; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Be seated.
†T H E W O R D †
The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.
FIRST LESSON Amos 7:10-15
Summary: The Lord called Amos to proclaim his message even though some would not listen
Then Amaziah the priest of Bethel sent a message to Jeroboam king of Israel: “Amos is raising a conspiracy against you in the very heart of Israel. The land cannot bear all his words. 11 For this is what Amos is saying:
“‘Jeroboam will die by the sword, and Israel will surely go into exile, away from their native land.’”
Then Amaziah said to Amos, “Get out, you seer! Go back to the land of Judah. Earn your bread there and do your prophesying there. Don’t prophesy anymore at Bethel, because this is the king’s sanctuary and the temple of the kingdom.”
Amos answered Amaziah, “I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.’
“By Faith” is a beautiful confessional hymn written by modern-day hymn writers Keith & Kristyn Getty and Stuart Townend. This hymn, along with several other new hymns by these composers, will be included in our new hymnal coming out soon.
SCHOOL CHILDREN SING By Faith
*At Sunday, St. John’s: In place of Psalm. The congregation may join in singing verse 5.
PSALM 78
*At Saturday, St John’s: All sing in unison.
*At Emmanuel: Sing refrain in unison, lectern side sings 1st line, pulpit side sings 2nd line.
O my people, hear my teaching;*
listen to the words of my mouth.
I will utter things from of old,*
what we have heard and what our fathers have told us.
We will not hide them from our children;*
we will tell the next generation
the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD.
Refrain
The LORD decreed statutes for Jacob*
and established the law in Israel,
so the next generation would know them,*
and they in turn would tell their children.
Then they would put their trust in God*
and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.
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
EPISTLE LESSON Ephesians 1:3-14
Summary: God chose us in Christ before the creation of the world
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love hepredestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.
In him we were also chosen,having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.
VERSE OF THE DAY Deuteronomy 30:14
M: Alleluia. The Word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it. Alleluia.
Please stand
GOSPEL LESSON Mark 6:7-13 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: Jesus sends out the twelve
Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.
These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”
They went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
Please be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY CW 770, Oh Christ, Who Called the Twelve
SERMONMark 6: 7-13
“Jesus Reaches People Through His Messengers”
Sent with his power (v.7)
Sent under his protection (v.8-11)
Sent for his purposes (v.12-13)
Please stand.
APOSTLES’ CREED
All: 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.
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 Called Workers 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 778:1-3, How Shall They Hear, Who Have Not Heard
M:O Lord God, our heavenly Father, pour out the Holy Spirit on your faithful people. Keep us strong in your grace and truth, protect and comfort us in all temptation, and bestow on us your saving peace, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
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.
Please be seated.
CLOSING HYMN CW 778:4-5, How Shall They Hear, Who Have Not Heard
Next week’s theme: July 25, 2021 he 9thSunday after Pentecost: The Savior Is Our Compassionate Shepherd
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, Cheri Borzick, 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, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Neil Miller, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer & son Tim, Don & Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Jennifer Strauss, Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Linda Lou Wacholtz, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), John Wildt – (added this week: Roger Hillmer)
– For worker training
CHRISTIAN ONE LINERS (from a member) “Most church members are kind, polite, and thoughtful…until you try to sit in their pews.”
ST. JOHN’S VOTERS’ MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Membership Changes: Adult Confirmation BIC: Amanda Finger Teen Confirmation: Alyssa, Emma, & Katie Mann and Olivia Zuehls Profession of Faith: Cheryl Smith Transfer in: David & Kristi Schrimpf & Son Logan from St. John’s, Baraboo, WI. Releases: Irene Palmer to Catholic; Jacob Polk to ELCA; Kenon & Mary Smith to LCMS. Transfer Out: Phyllis Farrell to Grace, Dalton. School Merger – Report update in bulletin; likely no action until 2022-2023 school year. St. John’s enrollment projected up by 10-15 students for 2021-2022 school year. New Hymnal to be presented in December. Karl Whitrock Memorial $181,000 to be invested with Thrivent. Budget Approved with a deficit of $108,000 due to following needs: 1) second pastor $70,000 2) New boiler & A/C for parsonage $20,000 3) new garage roofs & doors $10,000 4) school curriculum $8,000 5) school aides $20,000.
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.
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
† S C H O O L N E W S †
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
Jesus Gives the Bread of Life
Through Faithful Public Preachers
The Eighth Sunday after Pentecost – B
God’s Word for Today
It’s not easy giving a faithful proclamation of God’s Word. Public ministers serve as God’s representative to a sinful world, and the world is often not willing to accept God’s message of truth. The Old Testament prophet Amos found that out; St. Paul found that out; Jesus’ newly-called apostles would find that out. Yet faithful public preachers are a most necessary and divinely-instituted way in which the gospel of Jesus is proclaimed to all nations. Thank God for faithful public preachers and teachers of the gospel! By them Jesus gives us the Bread of Life.
First Lesson (Amos 7:10-15)
Was Amos proclaiming a popular message in Israel?
What did the king’s representative tell Amos to do, and how did Amos respond to the king’s command?
Second Lesson (Ephesians 1:3-14)
What comforting teaching of Scripture does Paul address in these verses?
What is the “mystery of [God’s] will” (verse 9)?
Gospel (Mark 6:7-13)
What is an apostle? What were the Twelve called to do?
What instructions did Jesus give them and why?
Answers:
As is the case with the Lord’s faithful public preachers, Amos did not have a “politically correct” message for the people of Israel, announcing that the popular king would die by the sword and that Israel would go into exile. Most interestingly, Amos proclaimed this message during the height of the Northern Kingdom’s greatest prosperity (2 Kgs 14:25).
Amaziah told Amos to go back to Judah, his homeland, and to stop prophesying in the land of Israel. Amos responded that he was not a prophet of his own choosing; instead he had been commanded by the Lord to say these things.
Paul tells the Ephesians and us that our salvation was planned by God before the creation of the world. God chose us in Christ to be his children. Sadly, some have undermined this comforting doctrine of eternal election with their speculations about God’s hidden will and have frightened the consciences of Christians. Paul wants us to be comforted by his words, not frightened! God loved you and chose you in Christ from all eternity! Believe it; it’s true!
The mystery (something that is hidden for a time) of God’s will to which Paul refers in this letter is that God’s salvation is for all people, not just for the descendants of his Old Testament people. The “you” of verse 13 is the Gentile Christians in Ephesus. (cf. also Eph 3:4-6).
An apostle is “one who is sent.” The apostles were called to proclaim the good news about Jesus.
The Twelve were instructed not to take anything with them except a staff. If any place did not except their testimony, they were to move on to other places.
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
7-10
7-11
St. John’s Altar Committee for July 2021:Lucy Laun&Kathy North
SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
Monday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm
●●● 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.orgChurch & 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 ●●●
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 during this Pentecost season. WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES † Saturday: 4:30p.m. at St. John’s † Sunday: 8:00a.m. at Emmanuel 10:00a.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 TODAYToday’s theme: The 6th Sunday after Pentecost – Life Finds Strength in Struggles – It is when life is at its worst that we have opportunity to see God at his best. His mercy is new every morning and accomplishes the impossible – against all odds. Faith turns to God and responds with rich joy and amazing generosity.
†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.
OPENING HYMN CWS 785, “O Lord of Nations”
*On Sunday, Choir sings v. 1-2, 4-6 and congregation sings 3, 7.
This beautiful hymn “O Lord of Nations” will be included in our new hymnal coming soon. It was written for Thanksgiving 2001, the first Thanksgiving after the terrifying events of September 11. It is a beautiful hymn that includes praise and petition fitting for our celebration today.
OPENING HYMN CW 232, “Lord of My Life, Whose Tender Care”
*On Saturday.
† S E R V I C E O F THE W O R D †
Please 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
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:We have come into the presence of God, who created us to love and serve him as his dear children. But we have disobeyed him and deserve only his wrath and punishment. Therefore, let us confess our sins to him and plead for his mercy.
C: Merciful Father in heaven, I am altogether sinful from birth. In countless ways I have sinned against you and do not deserve to be called your child. But trusting in Jesus, my Savior, I pray: Have mercy on me according to your unfailing love. Cleanse me from my sin, and take away my guilt.
M:God, our heavenly Father, has forgiven all your sins. By the perfect life and innocent death of our Lord Jesus Christ, he has removed your guilt forever. You are his own dear child. May God give you strength to live according to his will.
C: Amen.
PRAYER AND PRAISE
M: In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.
OH, TASTE AND SEE
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Let us pray.
O God, you have prepared joys beyond understanding for those who love you. Pour into our hearts such love for you that, loving you above all things, we may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
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 Lamentations 3:22-33 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: The Lord’s compassions never fail
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. 23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”
25 The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; 26 it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. 27 It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young.
28 Let him sit alone in silence, for the Lord has laid it on him. 29 Let him bury his face in the dust— there may yet be hope. 30 Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him, and let him be filled with disgrace.
31 For no one is cast off by the Lord forever. 32 Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. 33 For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone.
PSALM 30
* Men sing 1st line, women sing 2nd line, all sing refrains and Gloria.
Sing to the LORD, you saints of his;*
praise his holy name.
For his anger lasts only a moment,*
but his favor lasts a lifetime;
weeping may remain for a night,*
but rejoicing comes in the morning.
Refrain
To you, O LORD, I called;*
to the Lord I cried for mercy.
Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me;*
O LORD, be my help.
You turned my wailing into dancing,*
that my heart may sing to you and not be silent.
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 2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 13-14
Summary: God’s generosity overflows though the lives of believers
And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2 In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. 5 And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. 6 So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. 7 But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you[a]—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
8 I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
13 Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. 14 At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality…
VERSE OF THE DAY Mark 8:34b
M: Alleluia. If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Alleluia.
Please stand
GOSPEL LESSON Mark 5:21-24, 35-43
Summary: The Lord’s compassion gives life
21 When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22 Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 He pleaded earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.” 24 So Jesus went with him.
A large crowd followed and pressed around him.
35 While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?”
36 Overhearing[a] what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
37 He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 But they laughed at him.
After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.
Please be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY CW 414, “I Leave All Things to God’s Direction”
SERMON Lamentations 3:22-33
“The LORD Is My Portion”
Though he brings grief (v. 28-33)
Still, I will wait for him (v. 22-27)
Please stand.
APOSTLES’ CREED
All: 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.
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, For the Lord To Show Compassion Prayer 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 618:1-3, “Before the Lord We Bow”
M:O Lord God, our heavenly Father, pour out the Holy Spirit on your faithful people. Keep us strong in your grace and truth, protect and comfort us in all temptation, and bestow on us your saving peace, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
M: As you go from here, remember this:
God’s love is from everlasting to everlasting,
from generation to generation.
Just as a father has compassion on his children
so God has compassion on those who fear him,
who listen to his voice,
and who do his will.
Go out in the knowledge that the everlasting love of God goes with you.
Next week’s theme:- July 11, 2021 The 7thSunday after Pentecost: Proclaim the Word Whether People Listen or Not
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, Cheri Borzick, Mike Brown, Ed Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Dan Finger, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Luanne Mittlesteadt, Shelley Myers, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer & son Tim, Don & Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Jennifer Strauss, Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Linda Lou Wacholtz, Dixie Wagner, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), John Wildt – (added this week:)
– For Jan Dahlke who celebrated her 87th birthday on 6/29
– For Haven Mae Ackerson, the daughter of Samuel Ackerson and Jaida Thome, baptized on 7/3 at St. John’s
– For missions
– For Independence Day
ST. JOHN’S VOTERS’ MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Membership Changes: Adult Confirmation BIC: Amanda Finger Teen Confirmation: Alyssa, Emma, & Katie Mann and Olivia Zuehls Profession of Faith: Cheryl Smith Transfer in: David & Kristi Schrimpf & Son Logan from St. John’s, Baraboo, WI. Releases: Irene Palmer to Catholic; Jacob Polk to ELCA; Kenon & Mary Smith to LCMS. Transfer Out: Phyllis Farrell to Grace, Dalton. School Merger – Report update in bulletin; likely no action until 2022-2023 school year. St. John’s enrollment projected up by 10-15 students for 2021-2022 school year. New Hymnal to be presented in December. Karl Whitrock Memorial $181,000 to be invested with Thrivent. Budget Approved with a deficit of $108,000 due to following needs: 1) second pastor $70,000 2) New boiler & A/C for parsonage $20,000 3) new garage roofs & doors $10,000 4) school curriculum $8,000 5) school aides $20,000.
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 again resume starting in July. It 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.
CONFIRMATION GOWNS If you have a confirmation gown that you, or someone you know, is not using and want to donate it to church for future confirmands, please drop by the office. Thanks!
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
† S C H O O L N E W S †
CONFIRMATION GOWNS If you have a confirmation gown that you, or someone you know, is not using and want to donate it to church for future confirmands, please drop by the office. Thanks!
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
St. John’s Lutheran PRINCETON Soccer Camp 2021 – Jesus Always Makes The Save!
When: July 6th – 8th Time: Times will be run differently this year. Please see below for age group and time: K3-1st Grade: 4:30 pm – 7 pm 2nd-6th Grade: 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm Where: St. John’s Lutheran School 227 Harvard St. Theme: Jesus Always Makes The Save!
Soccer camp begins with registration each evening at 4:30, and each camp participant will receive dinner and a T-shirt. And it’s all FREE! Boys and girls, ages 3 through 12 are welcome!
In the game of soccer, the goalie needs to make the save again and again or the team has no chance of victory. In life, the Bible tells us that our victory is assured because Jesus has come to seek and to save the lost. Your children are invited to a three-day camp where they will learn how to “make the save” in soccer and grow closer to their Savior Jesus. Drills, exercises, and scrimmages will help them set goals for soccer. Breaks for devotions, music and other activities will help them set goals for life as they grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ their Savior.
It is when life is at its worst that we have opportunity to see God at his best. His mercy is new every morning and accomplishes the impossible – against all odds. Faith turns to God and responds with rich joy and amazing generosity.
First Lesson (Lamentations 3:22-33)
When things were miserable around him, from what did the writer get his hope?
What good can God be accomplishing for us in sufferings?
Second Lesson (2 Corinthians 8:1-9,13,14)
What was so amazing about the “grace of giving” seen among the Macedonian churches?
Of what would the Corinthian’s giving be a “test?”
What was the motivation behind their giving?
Gospel (Mark 5:21-24a, 35-43)
How did Jairus show faith in Jesus?
What words did Jesus speak in v. 36 that should stick with us?
Answers:
1. When we feel we hit “rock bottom,” we too should be reminded that things would be far worse. God could have given us full punishment for our sins (yes, even the “small” ones). It is because of God’s great love that you are still alive! But look around you. His mercies show themselves faithfully every morning in the sunshine and the rain – in the little joys that come our way. Look for it every day. Since his compassion will never fail us, we should wait patiently for the timing of his blessings.
2. There is strength given in the testing field of suffering. It begins as he strips away pride and self-righteousness and teaches us true humility and a greater dependence on God alone. (see Rom 5:1-6, Hebrews 12:7-11, 1 Pe 1:3-9).
3. The overflowing joy sprang up not from outstanding wealth but from severe trials and extreme poverty. In spite of the obvious needs they had, they were rich in generosity – even giving beyond their ability. What a testimony to God’s power in them.
4. Paul wanted to test the sincerity of their love by their faithfulness in giving. It is so easy to say you love the Lord and love his people. The proof is in the doing. (Look at the actions of faith displayed in Matthew 25:34-40 or James 2:14-18)
5. The motivation for our sacrificial generosity centers in Christ who gave up the riches of heaven to come to the poverty of this world in order to win for us the outstanding inheritance of heaven. Who would not want to “give themselves first to the Lord,” when they truly understand that? (2 Cor 5:13-15)
6. Jairus came to Jesus knowing he could do what no one else could. He believed that Jesus could put his hands on his dying daughter and she would be healed.
7. When Jesus said, “Don’t be afraid, just believe, “ he was speaking to an impossible situation in the eyes of the world. The child was dead by human observation. But nothing is impossible with God. He lovingly restored her life. That is all the more reason we should never give up hope.
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
6-26
6-27
46
77
St. John’s Altar Committee for July 2021:Lucy Laun&Kathy North
SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
Monday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm
●●● 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 ●●●
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 during this Pentecost season.
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 TODAYListen for the Message God is Giving You! – Preaching the message of God is not a popularity contest. The size of the crowd and the level of cheering is not what it is all about, but rather being faithful in speaking God’s word to the specific people and situation. Sometimes that ruffles feathers. The response from people and the obstacles in life are humbling but should lead us to pay attention to the message and not the messenger (unless of course it is Christ himself).
†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.
OPENING HYMN CW 176, Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord
† S E R V I C E O F W O R D & S A C R A M E N T †
Please 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
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: 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.
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.
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.
God of all power and might, you are the giver of all that is good. Help us love you with all our heart, strengthen us in true faith, provide us with all we need, and keep us safe in your care; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
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 Ezekiel 2:1-5 (today’s sermon text) Summary:Ezekiel’s call to rebellious Israel
He said to me, “Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.” As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me.
He said: “Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day. The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says.’ And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them.
PSALM 143
* Sing in unison the refrains and verses.
O LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy;*
in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.
Do not bring your servant into judgment,*
for no one living is righteous before you.
My spirit grows faint within me;*
my heart within me is dismayed.
Refrain
Answer me quickly, O LORD;*
do not hide your face from me.
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,*
for I have put my trust in you.
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God;*
may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.
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 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Summary: Christ’s power in Paul’s ministry became more evident through Paul’s weaknesses
To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
VERSE OF THE DAY Luke 8:15
M: Alleluia. Happy are they who hear the Word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience. Alleluia.
Please stand
GOSPEL LESSON Mark 6:1-6
Summary: Jesus, a Prophet without honor
Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed.
“Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him, that he even does miracles! Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.
Jesus said to them, “Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor.” He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. And he was amazed at their lack of faith.
Please be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY CW 536, Lord Jesus Christ, the Church’s Head
SERMON Ezekiel 2:1-5 God Commissions His Prophet
By preparing the prophet to listen to his Word (v.1,2)
By showing the prophet the scope of his task. (v.3,4a)
By assuring the Prophet of the Lord’s effectiveness (v.4b,5)
Please stand.
NICENE CREED
All: 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 Loved Ones Absent From Worship 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.
†T H E S A C R A M E N T †
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.
He raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms and placed all things under his feet for the benefit of the Church.
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
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.
O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD
Agnus Dei
Please 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.
COMMUNION HYMN CW311, Soul, Adorn Yourself with Gladness
*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.
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.
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.
Please be seated.
CLOSING HYMN CW 291, We Have a Sure Prophetic Word
Next week’s theme: July 18, 2021 The 8thSunday after Pentecost: God Established Our Ministry
8:00 a.m.
Emmanuel Worship
10:00 a.m.
St. John’s Worship with school children singing
11:00a.m.
Evangelism meeting at St. John’s
† 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, Cheri Borzick, Mike Brown, Ed Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Jan Dahlke, Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Dan Finger, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Luanne Mittlesteadt, Shelley Myers, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer & son Tim, Don & Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Jennifer Strauss, Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Linda Lou Wacholtz, Dixie Wagner, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), John Wildt – (added this week: )
– For Liola Crown who will celebrate her 96th birthday on 7/13.
– For our communicants
CHRISTIAN ONE LINERS (from a member) “Don’t let your worries get the best of you; Remember: Moses started out as a basket case.”
ST. JOHN’S VOTERS’ MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Membership Changes: Adult Confirmation BIC: Amanda Finger Teen Confirmation: Alyssa, Emma, & Katie Mann and Olivia Zuehls Profession of Faith: Cheryl Smith Transfer in: David & Kristi Schrimpf & Son Logan from St. John’s, Baraboo, WI. Releases: Irene Palmer to Catholic; Jacob Polk to ELCA; Kenon & Mary Smith to LCMS. Transfer Out: Phyllis Farrell to Grace, Dalton. School Merger – Report update in bulletin; likely no action until 2022-2023 school year. St. John’s enrollment projected up by 10-15 students for 2021-2022 school year. New Hymnal to be presented in December. Karl Whitrock Memorial $181,000 to be invested with Thrivent. Budget Approved with a deficit of $108,000 due to following needs: 1) second pastor $70,000 2) New boiler & A/C for parsonage $20,000 3) new garage roofs & doors $10,000 4) school curriculum $8,000 5) school aides $20,000.
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.
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
† S C H O O L N E W S †
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
Listen for the Message God is Giving You!
Pentecost 7 – B
God’s Word for Today
Preaching the message of God is not a popularity contest. The size of the crowd and the level of cheering is not what it is all about, but rather being faithful in speaking God’s word to the specific people and situation. Sometimes that ruffles feathers. The response from people and the obstacles in life are humbling but should lead us to pay attention to the message and not the messenger (unless of course it is Christ himself).
First Lesson (Ezekiel 2:1-5)
What did God call Ezekiel to do?
What was the test of Ezekiel’s effectiveness?
Second Lesson (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
Does a greater level of faith guarantee God will grant your prayer request?
For what reason did God not remove that specific struggle Paul was experiencing in his life?
Gospel (Mark 6:1-6)
What obstacle did Jesus meet while preaching in his hometown?
Of what was their response evidence?
Answers:
1. Ezekiel was to go to the Israelites who had rebelled against God. God had a specific people and a specific message on which he was to focus his life from this point on.
2. Popularity was not to be the deciding factor in determining his effectiveness. He continues to remind Ezekiel that he is going up against a rebellious and stubborn people. His effectiveness will be gauged on his faithfulness in saying God’s words to them no matter how much opposition he gets from them.
3. Often well-intentioned Christians will say that someone’s situation didn’t get better because they didn’t have enough faith. Paul was surely a man of great faith. The Lord had revealed to him things others had never seen and heard. God is not a “genie in a bottle” to respond to our shortsighted requests in prayer. Ultimately God’s loving plans for us dictate his wise, caring response.
4. The Lord knew how sinful nature can pull us away from him (especially pride). The “thorn in the flesh” was God’s tool to keep Paul humble and to keep him connected to his real strength – the Lord. When we are “weak,” we despair of our selves and finally give the task over to God. God’s power stands out more brilliantly with the miracles he accomplishes when we are “weak.”
5. The people remembered Jesus as a kid and pictured him as a carpenter. This isn’t what they expected of a preacher. Since they were so familiar with him and his family, they were unwilling to see past the person and listen to the preaching.
6. Their response showed their lack of faith. They were amazed at his wisdom and the miracles he did, but they let their reasoning get in the way. Instead they should have seen them as evidence that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and by believing they would have had life in his name. (Jn 20:30-31)
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
7-4
14
7-4
57
65
St. John’s Altar Committee for July 2021:Lucy Laun&Kathy North
SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
Monday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm
●●● 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 ●●●
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 384:1-3, “By Grace I’m Saved”
† 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 for your great glory. O Lord God, heavenly 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.
O Lord, our God, govern the nations on earth and direct the affairs of this world so that your Church may worship you in peace and joy; through your Son, Jesus Christ 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 Job 38:1-11 (Saturday’s sermon text)
Summary: God’s wisdom over creation
Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm. He said: “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me.
“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone— while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?
“Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and wrapped it in thick darkness, when I fixed limits for it and set its doors and bars in place, when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt’?
PSALM 46
* All sing in unison.
Refrain: The mighty Lord is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. ♪
God is our refuge and strength,*
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way*
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam*
and the mountains quake with their surging.
Refrain
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,*
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;*
God will help her at break of day.
“Be still, and know that I am God;*
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
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 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 (Sunday’s sermon text)
Summary: God’s reconciling love forms a new creation
For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
VERSE OF THE DAY Galatians 4:6
M: Alleluia. Because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” Alleluia.
C: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! ♪
Please stand.
GOSPEL LESSON Mark 4:35-41
C: Glory be to you, O Lord! ♪
Summary: Jesus’ power over creation
That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”
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 401, “Your Works, Not Mine, O Christ”
SERMON
Saturday
Job 38:1-11
“Trust in the LORD; He is greater and you!”
Sunday
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
“The Old Has Gone-The New Has Come”
New Status
New Life
New Work
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 Holy Spirit 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, Vacation Time Prayer 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, and we praise you especially for the glorious resurrection of your Son, the true Passover Lamb, who by his sacrifice took away the sins of the world and by his resurrection restored everlasting life. 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.
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 HYMN CW 310, “I Come, O Savior, to Your Table”
*Sunday only.
1 I come, O Savior, to your table, For weak and weary is my soul;
O Jesus, you alone are able To satisfy and make me whole.
Refrain:
Lord, may your body and your blood Be for my soul the highest good!
2 Oh, grant that I in manner worthy May now trust solely in your Word,
And, conscious of the sins before me, Look only unto you, O Lord.
Refrain
3 Unworthy though I am, O Savior, Because I have a sinful heart,
Yet you your lamb will banish never, Nor will your faithfulness depart.
Refrain
4 Oh, let me loathe all sin forever As death and poison to my soul,
That I through willful sinning never May see your judgment take its toll!
Refrain
5 Your heart is filled with fervent yearning That sinners may salvation see
Who, Lord, to you in faith are turning; So let me, too, come trustingly.
Refrain
6 Weary am I and heavy laden; With sin my soul is sore oppressed.
Receive me graciously and gladden My heart, for I am now your guest.
Refrain
7 You here will find a heart most lowly That feels unworthy in your sight,
That duly weeps o’er sin, yet solely Your merit pleads, as it is right.
Refrain
8 By faith I call your holy table The testament of your deep love,
For by your gift I now am able To know the heart of God above.
Refrain
9 What higher gift can we inherit? It is faith’s bond and solid base;
It is the strength of heart and spirit, The covenant of hope and grace.
Refrain
10 This feast is manna, wealth abounding Unto the poor, to weak ones pow’r,
To angels joy, to hell confounding, And life for me in death’s dark hour.
Refrain
11 Your body, giv’n for me, O Savior, Your blood, which you for me have shed—
These are my life and strength forever; By them my hungry soul is fed.
Refrain
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.
St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church 313 East Montello St. Montello, WI 53949
Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949 Pastor Pete Zietlow
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 during this Pentecost season.
WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES † Saturday: 4:30p.m. at St. John’s † Sunday: 8:00a.m. at Emmanuel 10:00a.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 TODAYToday’s theme: The 4th Sunday after Pentecost – Don’t Underestimate Jesus and His People! – On Independence days people celebrate the growth and power of the nation. Yet there is a more powerful kingdom that has grown up from humble beginnings. It is the kingdom of God, which often makes unnoticeable progress in conquering hearts for Christ. Yet stepping back to look at it you can see its tremendous growth. Those who are part of it will be longing for the final outcome when they are “clothed” with immortal life away from the struggles of the world.
†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.
WELS CONNECTION
OPENING LITANY
M: See what love the Father has given us,
C: that we should be called the children of God.
M: You are my sons and daughters, this day I have begotten you.
C: See what love the Father has given us.
M: As many received him, to them he gave power to become the children of God.
C: See what love the Father has given us.
M: Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
C: See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called the children of God.
OPENING HYMN CWS 753, “Father, God of Grace, You Knew Us”
† S E R V I C E O F W O R D †
Please 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
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:We have come into the presence of God, who created us to love and serve him as his dear children. But we have disobeyed him and deserve only his wrath and punishment. Therefore, let us confess our sins to him and plead for his mercy.
C: Merciful Father in heaven, I am altogether sinful from birth. In countless ways I have sinned against you and do not deserve to be called your child. But trusting in Jesus, my Savior, I pray: Have mercy on me according to your unfailing love. Cleanse me from my sin, and take away my guilt.
M:God, our heavenly Father, has forgiven all your sins. By the perfect life and innocent death of our Lord Jesus Christ, he has removed your guilt forever. You are his own dear child. May God give you strength to live according to his will.
C: Amen.
PRAYER AND PRAISE
M: In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.
OH, TASTE AND SEE
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Let us pray.
O God, protector of all the faithful, you alone make strong; you alone make holy. Show us your mercy and forgive our sins day by day. Guide us through our earthly lives that we do not lose the things you have prepared for us in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
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 Ezekiel 17:22-24
Summary: The Lord builds His Kingdom from the Messianic shoot
“`This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it; I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain. On the mountain heights of Israel I will plant it; it will produce branches and bear fruit and become a splendid cedar. Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches. All the trees of the field will know that I the LORD bring down the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish.’”
“`I the LORD have spoken, and I will do it.'”
PSALM 92
* Cantor sings 1st line, congregation sings 2nd line and refrains.
How great are your works, O LORD,*
how profound your thoughts!
The senseless man does not know,*
fools do not understand,
that though the wicked spring up like grass*
and all evildoers flourish,
they will be forever destroyed.*
But you, O LORD, are exalted forever.
Refrain
The righteous will flourish like a palm tree,*
they will flourish in the courts of our God.
They will still bear fruit in old age,*
they will stay fresh and green,
proclaiming, “The LORD is upright;*
he is my rock, and there is no wickedness in him.”
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 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
Summary: Kingdom living – by faith not by sight
Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
VERSE OF THE DAY Psalm 132:9
M: Alleluia. May your priests be clothed with righteousness; may your saints sing for joy. Alleluia.
Please stand
GOSPEL LESSON Mark 4:26-34(today’s sermon text underlined)
Summary: Internal and external growth of God’s Kingdom
He also said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain– first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come.”
Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed you plant in the ground. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade.”
With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.
Please be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY CW 559, “Lord of the Living Harvest”
SERMON Mark 4:26-29
“The Word of God Works Like a Seed” (It is…)
Imperceptible
Powerful
Productive
Please stand.
APOSTLES’ CREED
All: 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.
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, Father’s Day Prayer 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 324:1-3, “Almighty God, Your Word Is Cast”
M:O Lord God, our heavenly Father, pour out the Holy Spirit on your faithful people. Keep us strong in your grace and truth, protect and comfort us in all temptation, and bestow on us your saving peace, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
M: As you go from here, remember this:
God’s love is from everlasting to everlasting,
from generation to generation.
Just as a father has compassion on his children
so God has compassion on those who fear him,
who listen to his voice,
and who do his will.
Go out in the knowledge that the everlasting love of God goes with you.
Amen.
Please be seated.
CLOSING HYMN CW 324:4, “Almighty God, Your Word Is Cast”
Next week’s theme:- June 20, 2021 The 5thSunday after Pentecost: God Governs Creation
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, Cheri Borzick, Ed Buchholz, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Sharon Crook, Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken & Sally Elmer, Mike Farrell, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Thomas Marcelain (Dawn’s son), Luanne Mittlesteadt, Shelley Myers, Phil Nelson (Melanie Zuehls’ step-father), Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer & son Tim, Don & Doris Smith, Mary Smith, Tom Stempniak (Carol’s husband), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Linda Lou Wacholtz, Dixie Wagner, Kathy Weinfurter (Ken Pabelick’s mother-in-law), John Wildt, Bill Zamzow (Kay Maass’ brother-in-law) – (added this week: Dan Finger)
– For laborers in God’s harvest field
– For the family of David Finger, age 62, Dan’s father, called to his heavenly home on 6/13
VOTERS MEETING Save the date: Sunday, June 27 immediately following 10:00am St. John’s service.
LADIES AID Ladies Aid would like to invite all Emmanuel and St. Johns ladies to our summer meeting on July 1 at 12 noon. We will have a light lunch before the meeting, please feel free to join us and see what we are all about. Please RSVP, so we know how many to prepare for, to Dolly Eggert at 414-294-9382
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 again resume starting in July. It 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.
APPLIANCES Do you (or someone you know from our congregation) need a washer, dryer, refrigerator, or stove? Our retired Little Lambs house has these items in working condition. Please contact the office for more information.
OUR KIDS COMPLETE 2020-2021 MISSION PROJECTS Thank you to our school children and Sunday school children for their generous gifts to missions and to parents for supporting them as they actively practiced Jesus’ command “to go and make disciples.” Kids may not be able to go into the mission field, but they can still share the Message by giving to missions. St. John’s School and Little Lambs children gave $951.53 to their Kids C.A.R.E. project, Children’s Outreach Ministry, which helps congregations start programs to minister to small children and builds bridges to sharing Christ with their families as well. Their gift will be pooled with those given by kids around the WELS and presented at the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society Convention, June 24-27. The Sunday school children gave $654.68 to Costa Maya Ministries in Mexico. Their gifts will aid the building of a new church as well as helping with children’s programs. To God be the glory!
CONFIRMATION GOWNS If you have a confirmation gown that you, or someone you know, is not using and want to donate it to church for future confirmands, please drop by the office. Thanks!
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
† S C H O O L N E W S †
OUR KIDS COMPLETE 2020-2021 MISSION PROJECTS Thank you to our school children and Sunday school children for their generous gifts to missions and to parents for supporting them as they actively practiced Jesus’ command “to go and make disciples.” Kids may not be able to go into the mission field, but they can still share the Message by giving to missions. St. John’s School and Little Lambs children gave $951.53 to their Kids C.A.R.E. project, Children’s Outreach Ministry, which helps congregations start programs to minister to small children and builds bridges to sharing Christ with their families as well. Their gift will be pooled with those given by kids around the WELS and presented at the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society Convention, June 24-27. The Sunday school children gave $654.68 to Costa Maya Ministries in Mexico. Their gifts will aid the building of a new church as well as helping with children’s programs. To God be the glory!
LITTLE LAMBS REGISTRATION OPEN We are currently accepting registrations for St. John’s Little Lambs 2021-2022. Forms are available from the school office, church Information Room or from Director Lynn Sellnow.
FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES
CONFIRMATION GOWNS If you have a confirmation gown that you, or someone you know, is not using and want to donate it to church for future confirmands, please drop by the office. Thanks!
LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to donate and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s church and school that you can choose from:
Church General, School General, House/Parking Lot, Family Easter Festival, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, School Technology, Church Video/Audio System, Security System, Tuition Assistance, Athletic Fund, Outreach Events, School Server Upgrade, School HVAC/Purifying System
St. John’s Lutheran PRINCETON Soccer Camp 2021 – Jesus Always Makes The Save!
When: July 6th – 8th Time: Times will be run differently this year. Please see below for age group and time: K3-1st Grade: 4:30 pm – 7 pm 2nd-6th Grade: 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm Where: St. John’s Lutheran School 227 Harvard St. Theme: Jesus Always Makes The Save!
Soccer camp begins with registration each evening at 4:30, and each camp participant will receive dinner and a T-shirt. And it’s all FREE! Boys and girls, ages 3 through 12 are welcome!
In the game of soccer, the goalie needs to make the save again and again or the team has no chance of victory. In life, the Bible tells us that our victory is assured because Jesus has come to seek and to save the lost. Your children are invited to a three-day camp where they will learn how to “make the save” in soccer and grow closer to their Savior Jesus. Drills, exercises, and scrimmages will help them set goals for soccer. Breaks for devotions, music and other activities will help them set goals for life as they grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ their Savior.
Some of you may have heard that your church leaders are making plans to lead us into the future as far as our educational system here at St. John’s is concerned. We are looking at ways to meet the educational needs of our church and community. The Church Council has been kept aware of the ongoing meetings, but most of you may not have been updated for some time.
The St. John’s School Board sent out a survey to our school parents last winter regarding a possible move of our upper grades to Princeton. The response from our school families was quite positive overall.
Leaders from St. John’s have had numerous meetings with leaders from our WELS congregations in Princeton and Green Lake. These started before the pandemic, stalled for quite some time during the pandemic, and have now picked up again. Our leadership is very interested in joining with Princeton and Green Lake (and possibly other neighboring churches) to form a federation school for grades 3-8 at the St. John’s, Princeton facility. We have received great support and interest from Princeton and are hoping to move forward with this vision.
The main reason for this idea is to allow for growth in our early childhood program. Our larger early childhood classes could greatly benefit from being in separate classrooms. In addition, many families are requesting extra childcare options. Because of this, there is interest in building a new facility that would be able to provide full-time childcare, beginning at the infant/toddler level. There is currently a great need for childcare in our area. A committee is in the process of studying our long-range plans and needs as a congregation.
Another reason for this proposal is that the upper grades would be much better served by having larger class sizes and a larger gym so we can provide activities and competitive sports for our students.
There had been talk of moving grades 3-8 to Princeton already next school year. However, Princeton’s council met and is presenting a plan to their voters to join with Montello for a federated school (rather than this being an east campus of St. John’s, Montello) beginning in the 2022-23 school year. By working together, we can more efficiently accomplish the work of spreading the Gospel to the children of our congregations, as we train the next generation of church leaders.
At the past two joint meetings between Princeton and Montello, the main topic has been budget since both congregations need to know what their financial obligation will be before they can approve the plan. Obviously that obligation will be contingent on the possibility of other congregations joining as federation members. At our most recent meeting, we toured the facility and found it to be in very good shape (for having no occupancy since its closure in 2011). There will need to be a few upgrades (especially carpeting and technology), but nothing too intrusive.
We are currently awaiting full approval from the Princeton congregation to move forward with the next planning stages. At that point, our leaders will also bring this to the congregation to ask for full support. This merger will definitely not happen until at least the 2022-23 school year.
Your leaders are excited for this opportunity to expand our ministry, and we pray that God will use and bless our efforts to spread His Word so that His Kingdom can grow.
Don’t Underestimate Jesus and His People!
Pentecost 4 – B
God’s Word for Today
On Independence days people celebrate the growth and power of the nation. Yet there is a more powerful kingdom that has grown up from humble beginnings. It is the kingdom of God, which often makes unnoticeable progress in conquering hearts for Christ. Yet stepping back to look at it you can see its tremendous growth. Those who are part of it will be longing for the final outcome when they are “clothed” with immortal life away from the struggles of the world.
First Lesson (Ezekiel 17:22-24)
1. What will he do with the “top of the cedar tree?”
2. What will the new tree attract?
Second Lesson (2 Corinthians 5:1-10)
3. Why does Paul call this life (his body) “a tent?”
4. What difference will that make in our lives?
Gospel (Mark 4:26-34)
5. How does Jesus help us understand the kingdom of God with the illustration of the growing seed?
6. What else do we learn about the kingdom of God from the mustard seed?
Answers:
1.God uses the picture of breaking off the top of a cedar tree and planting it to vividly prophesy the miraculous success of his people. They would start off insignificant and small. But this kingdom of God would grow more powerful than the nations around because Jesus will be at its core.
2. This kingdom of God would have a worldwide influence. People with every kind of background from all over the world will find safety and shelter in its “branches.” (See the parable of the mustard seed – Matthew 13:31-32)
3. Our bodies on this earth are not our permanent dwelling but just temporary (like a tent). We groan with the pains and struggles of our bodies, but know that God has given us more – eternal life! The more we understand what is coming up, the more we will long for it. How much is this a part of your daily perspective?
4. Because we know confidently look ahead to the judgment, we make it our goal to please him and do all for the glory of God. Christian living is not a matter of rules and regulations but joyful response to the gospel as we join in unfolding God’s effect on the world.
5. The growth of God’s kingdom is God’s work as he provides consistent progress toward bearing fruit for the final harvest. The seed of the gospel unfolds God’s ruling activity in people in often-unnoticed development. Can you look back and see the progress God has made in your faith life?
6. The kingdom of God in a big world sometimes seems small and insignificant, but it grows to be the largest. The parable emphasizes the extraordinary power and growth of the gospel as it brings growth to the church where all peoples can find its benefit (“perch in its shade”).
Attendance
Emmanuel
St. John’s
6-12
18
6-13
65
79
St. John’s Altar Committee for June 2021:Delores Cotte&Diane Eisermann
SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
Monday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm
●●● 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 ●●●
