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A Newsletter concerning the
Mission and Ministry
of St. John’s Ev.
Lutheran Church, La Porte, IN
Vol. 51
September 2002
No. 7
__________________________________________________________________
“As one family, we
lovingly proclaim Jesus Christ.”
From the Pastor & Staff—
How are you using your gifts from the Lord to further His
work at St. John’s? Good stewardship is everyone’s responsibility! Here is what
some Boards & Committees have been doing:
The Worship Committee has been working with Pastor
Koch on distribution of Worship Surveys during August to members attending
worship services. Results of this survey will be released to the congregation
when tabulated. Pastor Koch has been working with the Board of Missions &
Evangelism in working on a Natural Church Development (NCD) Survey to
determine where we are and what we need to do to be a growing congregation.
Pastor Beversdorf and Coordinator Debra Trowbridge have been working with the
Board of Elders and the Board of Public Relations on the correcting
and updating the membership database. This helps us contact members we haven’t
heard from in a while, and also helps in our work on a new Church
Directory.
The Board of Elders have also been working with Pastor Koch on a
Leadership Covenant and Discipline policies. The Board of Trustees has
been working on plans to repair and update the Church building (though funding
problems have delayed the start of the project until at least next year.) The
Board of Stewardship is working with Pastor Koch a on a plan to develop
better Stewardship among the members. The School Board is working
with Principle Dave Wippich on improving student discipline and dress codes, the
playground & property care. The Congregation Coordinator has been working with
the Board of Elders on reorganizing Church Office operations, and has
developed a Church Operations Manual and an Office Operations Manual on who does
what, and how it is done. We also have Internet access for all church staff
now. You may contact us directly to volunteer to help us at: pastorkoch@stjohns-lpin.org,
pastorjim@stjohns-lpin.org &
debratrowbridge@stjohns-lpin.org.
From The Worship Committee…
September Worship Service Information
(All sermons by Rev. Karl Koch unless otherwise noted.)
15th Sunday After Pentecost - “Let God & Let God”
Sat, Aug. 30 - Blended Worship Service - 7 pm
Sun, Sept. 1 - Traditional Worship Service - 8 am - Communion
- Modern Worship Service - 10:45 am
16th Sunday After Pentecost—IN Dist. Guest Preachers
Sat, Sept. 7 - Blended Worship Service - 7 pm - Communion
Sun, Sept. 8 - Rally Day Outdoor Worship Service - 10:30 am
Guest Preachers from IN District Outreach Ministries
(You may dress casual and bring lawn chairs & blankets;
some seating is provided. Service on lawn between
Church & School. Picnic follows in School. Bring a friend!)
17th Sunday After Pentecost - “How Well Can You Count?”
Sat, Sept. 14—Blended Worship Service - 7 pm - Communion
Sun, Sept. 15 - Traditional Worship Service - 8 am - Communion
- Modern Worship Service - 10:45 am
- Handicapped Accessible Service - 2:30 pm - Communion
18th Sunday After Pentecost - “Is This False Confidence?”
Sat., Sept. 21—Blended Worship Service - 7 pm
Sun, Sept. 22—Traditional Worship Service - 8 am
- Modern Worship Service - 10:45 am - Communion
19th Sunday After Pentecost— “Unbelievable Power”
Sat., Sept. 28—Blended Worship Service - 7 pm - Communion
Sun, Sept. 29—Traditional Worship Service - 8 am
- Modern Worship Service - 10:45 am- Communion
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From the School Principal…
Calendar of Events - School Activities:
8/29 PTL Open House and Ice Cream Parlor
6-6:15 assembly in gym -2-
6:15-7:00 teacher presentations on the quarter hour
9/5 Faculty meeting
9/6 Innesbrook begins
9/10 School Board
9/11 Picture Day
9/18 Midterm
9/23 Innesbrook ends – proceeds to cover art, music, and tech
St. John’s Faculty and Staff for 2002-2003:
Principal: David Wippich
Preschool/Daycare Director: Mrs. Rio Light
Kindergarten: Mrs. Karla Eigenmann
Grade One: Mrs. Marlene Will
Grade Two: Mrs. Sally Foglesong
Grade Three: Mrs. Lois Krider
Grade Four: Mrs. Jan Martinsen
Grade Five: Miss Jennifer Van’t Hof
Grade Six: Mrs. Mindy Bremer
Grade Seven: Mrs. Cheryl Hoard
Grade Eight: Miss Julie Stelter
Administrative Assistant: Mrs. Mary Rooney
Custodian: Mr. Barry Siddall
Top Ten Notes Worth Reading:
1. Mrs. Rosselli will be conducting music in
grades 5-8, which will be mandatory for the entire school by School
Board requirements.
2. Matt Nelson will offer a hand chime choir class
on Saturday mornings at 9:00 a.m. to children in grades 5-8…time
tentative.
3. Playground will be filled with kelly green
recycled tire chips shortly…funded by fundraisers with money on hand.
4. School service project this year: We will
attempt to beautify school landscaping to make our facility more appealing
to the eye.
5. NLSA phase two accreditation will be conducted this year…A self
evaluation of many areas of ministry…completion by April will also qualify us
for renewed state accreditation.
6. The school will be integrating elements of
discipline with purpose into the curriculum beginning this year. This is
designed to teach the 15 life skills of self discipline with an emphasis on
Biblical associations.
7. We will be having a playground work day coming
up sometime in September. See the bulletin and school newsletter for
more information. The work times will involve resurfacing the playground
area (see #3). Please watch for dates and times; come and join us!
8. The School Board, Faculty, and PTL will be
sponsoring a school grounds beautification project this fall where we
will need parent and church volunteers to come and help spread new mulch and
plant new plants. If you are dividing perennials this fall and have no room
in your yard to accommodate your plants, we would appreciate your bringing
them to us to plant here at the school. Be sure to watch the church bulletin
and the school newsletter for further details!
9. Thank you from the School Board and Faculty
to the people responsible for trimming bushes and grasses around the school
building. We appreciate your efforts!
10. We ask that you join in prayer to support our
church and our school…The Lord needs you to come
back to church and help support this ministry with your
time, talents, and dollar contributions.
Devotion of the Month
The faculty and staff will be beginning a journey through
the Bible beginning with Genesis. The Bible reading is Genesis 1:1 – 2:25. The
question is, “What does it mean to be created in God’s image? The answer
…God’s creation of mankind was different from the creation of animals in a
qualitative sense. God created man in His own image…Clearly this does not mean
that Adam and Eve looked like God physically; God is a spirit. Rather, Adam
and Eve reflected God’s nature. They were holy…sinless. They had the capacity
to enjoy a loving relationship with God and with each other. They were
creative, and they exercised stewardship over nature. Of course, Adam and Eve
shattered all this when they fell into sin. Jesus came
-4-
to make restoration possible. All who believe in Him will
enjoy unblemished holiness, love, and creativity in heaven. Even now, our
unique place in both the creation and redemption gives us a great sense of
purpose and worth and a burning desire to reflect God’s goodness.” Taken from
Today’s Light Bible, Frequently Asked Questions.
***************************
From Sunday School Superintendent…
WHAT’S NEW AT SUNDAY SCHOOL…
Dear Friends in Christ:
It is with mixed feelings that I pen this message. As you may
know, I have been the Sunday School superintendent here at St. John’s since the
retirement of Mr. Henry Snyder. While I have enjoyed this work very much, and
have felt the Lord’s direction, I must admit that He has been speaking to my
heart about turning this responsibility over to a man.
The Bible sets the example…Christ is the head of the church,
the man is to be the head of the home, we have men pastors, etc. He has
impressed upon me that a man should be the head of the Sunday School. I feel the
need to comply with His leading. Therefore, as of August 18, 2002, I will hand
this position over to whomever the Lord will send. Please pray that the Lord
will bless and guide our new superintendent.
In His Service, Melody Povlock
The summer has flown by, as summers usually do! How was your
spiritual growth? Was there any growth? Someone in the scientific community once
questioned regarding whether or not a particular object was living or
inanimate…if it isn’t growing, it’s dead!!!
An extreme RALLY DAY is being planned for Sunday, September
8. All summer long we have been busy climbing FAITH MOUNTAIN, learning about
all the EXTREME people of faith! Wow! What courageous folks! From little David
fighting a 9 foot giant to Rehab hiding spies despite danger to her own life…
what examples of faith! It is our sincere hope that all
children and adults involved in faith mountain had a real faith building time on
this adventure!
Promotion Sunday will be held on September 15. This is
the week that children are promoted to their new classroom and will meet their
new teacher. This is also an EXCELLENT time to begin to come to Sunday School!
In July we once again hosted the “Fishing Pond” located in
the Lutheran Laymen League booth. Over 500 little fishermen and women
stopped by and received a reminder of Jesus’ love for them. You know, their
parents received the same message, too! Praise the Lord! Thanks to everyone who
came and manned the booth. We truly appreciated your time!
On August 25 we took a field trip to Hamilton Communities
in New Carlisle, IN to host a birthday party for the residents. While there,
we performed a little skit about Joshua and the walls of Jericho, directed by
Mr. Mark Bublitz. We also sang a song and served birthday cake to everyone.
There are so many wonderful ways to share Jesus’ love with others, aren’t
there?! Thanks to everyone who chaperoned and assisted with this outreach. May
God bless you all!
Those with perfect attendance for June and July were as
follows:
June – Jeremy Berker, Brandon Gropp, Austin Gropp, Brooke
Baima, Tyler Berker, Abbie Michaels, Jenna Marie Kalsow, Alexander Kelsey,
Taylor Baima, Bethany Figolah, Chelsea Levandoski, Victoria Kelsey. They
received a bracelet for their perfect attendance.
July – Jeremy Berker, Jared Michaels, Brooke Baima, Tyler
Berker, Abbie Michaels, Nickolas Owens, Storm Shortt, Lindsey Hull, Jenna Marie
Kalsow, Alexander Kelsey, Taylor Baima, Sky Shortt, Kathryn Scherer, Larry
Keller, Brittany Scherer. They were each given a boomerang.
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From Our Boards & Committees…
VOTERS ASSEMBLY
The August 7, 2002 meeting was called to order by Vice
Chairman Jim Crum. Pastor Koch opened the meeting with prayer.
Minutes from the regular meeting of May 8 were read & and
approved. Pauletta Schuster was welcomed as a new voting member.
Pastor’s Report
Pastor Koch reported the following:
· The possibility of an exchange of consulting services
between Pastors Kurth and Koch in the areas of Stewardship and Natural
Development
· A demographic survey has been provided by Pastor
Dubbelde
· An introduction of the leadership covenant
· Possible attendance at an upcoming workshop
· A survey will be conducted for boards to complete
showing recent accomplishments
· The pastor’s discretionary fund will be used to pay for
demographic information from the Lutheran Church Extension Fund at a cost of
approximately $400. This information will be used by the call committee
· A recommendation that a review of the accounting
procedures be done
· Introduced Seminarian Kurt Klingbeil who will be
helping out in our congregation for the next couple of weeks
· Plans to add various Bible classes
Pastor Beversdorf reported that he sees people in the
hospital and their homes. He leads them in devotion, prayer, and Holy
Communion. He serves under the supervision of the Elders as Pastor of
Visitation, however, his job has not been defined. He reports that his job is
a joy, but often a burden: On average, he visits 1 person per hour, or 20 per
week. He suggests that 2 full time pastors would be needed to see each person
once a month. We are presently worshipping about 20% of our members. He
encourages all of us to keep in contact with shut-in members.
Principal’s Report
Mr. Wippich elaborated on his written report (attached):
The theme for the school year will be: “Jesus Christ is
Above All,” based on a song by Michael W. Smith
· There are potential enrollees and an ad is being placed
in the newspaper in the hopes of drawing more
· The school will be asking church members to help in the
accreditation process to be done this year
In response to a question concerning declining enrollment,
Mr. Wippich said that he does not believe the decline in the upper grades is
related to the newly established dress code.
Pastor Koch announced that Mr. Wippich and Mrs. Bremer will
be installed in the 8:00 service on Sunday, August 18.
Church Council
It was moved and seconded that we reinstate Mrs. Elna Grau
from Trinity Lutheran Church. The motion passed.
It was moved and seconded that we not send out financial
statements to 350 families who have not given financially nor attended
communion during this calendar year. The motion passed.
It was moved and seconded that a building committee be
formed to take over the task of keeping on top of Project 2000 so that it will
not die out. That this committee consist of at least 2 members of the Board of
Trustees, the treasurer, 2 members from the Board of Stewardship, a member of
the Board of Public Relations, and any volunteers in good standing in the
church not to number over 12 total. The motion passed.
It was moved and seconded that we replace the school fire
alarm system at a cost not to exceed $20,800.00. The motion passed.
It was moved and seconded that we form a committee to look
into the way we do our bookkeeping. The motion passed.
It was moved and seconded that the preschool and daycare be
reincorporated to be included with the school for all spiritual, managerial,
and financial matters. The motion passed.
It was moved and seconded that the following changes
regarding our Mission Projects be made:
That we end our financial support of First Timothy
Lutheran Church in Indianapolis, Harvest Lutheran Church in Mooresville, and
Crown of Life Lutheran Church in Frankfort; That in place of these churches,
we support the ministry of Deacon Tomas Angon who works with Hispanics in
our area. That we change the way we distribute our Mission Fund money from a
pre-determined dollar mount given monthly to dividing by percentage the
total amount received quarterly.
The motion was passed and seconded.
It was moved and seconded that we have one or more special
offerings to be given to the La Porte Ministerial Association Fund which will
then be transferred to the Salvation Army. The motion was passed and seconded.
It was moved and seconded that we modify and use the
Leadership Covenant form.
Following a brief discussion, a motion was made, seconded,
and passed that this motion be tabled.
It was moved and seconded that Pastor Kurth be asked to
help with the fall stewardship campaign. The motion passed.
It was moved and seconded that we eliminate from our
constitution (page 8) the following found in Article V – Section B- Right of
Calling and Article IV – Membership, Section C. – Voting Membership, Number 3
– Restrictions, which reads as follows: Women voters cannot exercise the vote
in matters of calling, oversight, and removal of pastors and called teachers
or in matters relating to membership changes such as transfers, Confessions of
Faith, excommunications, or removals from the congregation. This will
effectively grant full voting rights for all people of voting age in our
congregation. The motion passed.
It was announced that Marlene Will will serve on the Board of
Public Relations and Norma Faulstich will serve on the Board of Parish
Fellowship.
Treasurer’s Report
Jeff Scherer answered questions relating to the General
Operating Fund report (attached).
It was reiterated that an awareness needs to be made of
actual money on hand. Questions were raised regarding the ability to continue
meeting payroll and paying bills.
Jeff was shown appreciation from the assembly with applause.
Special Committees
Call committee: Jim Crum reported that interview questions
have been formulated and information about our congregation has been gathered to
share with candidates.
New Business
There was no new business. Since there were no communications
or announcements a motion to adjourn was entertained. The meeting was adjourned
at 8:40. Pastor Beversdorf closed the meeting with prayer.
Respectfully submitted, Penny Nelson, Secretary
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CHURCH COUNCIL
FINANCE SECRETARY’S REPORT FOR JULY…
2001 Total Attendance - 1,814 2002 Total Attendance - 1,320
2001 General Fund - $42,190.16 2002 General Fund - $34,462.89
2001 Building Fund—N/A 2002 Building Fund—$983.00
2001 Mission Fund - $2,049.50 2002 Mission Fund—$1,616.35
2001 Scholarship Fd - $1,144.20 2002 Scholarship Fd -
$1,211.30
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ELDERS
DEAF/ HEARING IMPAIRED MINISTRY
St. John’s offers worship and Bible study for Hearing
Impaired members of our congregation and the surrounding communities. On the
2nd Saturday of each month we have a CITI (Church Interpreter Training
Institute at Ft. Wayne Seminary) certified Interpreter for the Deaf signing at
the 7 p,m. worship service.
On the 4th Saturday of each month at 6 p.m. we have a Bible
Study with an Interpreter for the Hearing Impaired in the School Ladies
Lounge. Both hearing and Deaf members are invited to attend this study by
Indiana Missionary for the Deaf, Rev. Jerry Munz. We are currently studying the
book of Genesis. For more information on our ministry programs for the hearing
impaired, contact Congregation Coordinator, Debra Trowbridge, at (219) 362-3726
or e-mail debratrowbridge@stjohns-lpin.org.
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MISSIONS & EVANGELISM
NATURAL CHURCH DEVELOPMENT SURVEY
The Board of Missions and Evangelism would like to thank all
who participated in the Natural Church Development survey. Hopefully, soon, we
will have the results to report to you from the Church Smart Resource Center!
JESUS VIDEOS CAMPAIGN
The Board of Missions and Evangelism needs your help telling
the Good News of Jesus Christ. Similar to last year, we will be purchasing
videos that tell the story of Jesus. These videos will be given to people in the
community of La Porte that would like to get to know Jesus a little better.
If you would like to donate towards this effort either
monetarily or with your time, please contact Tracy Fronk by calling
574-654-3957, or email hoosierbuck@aol.com. Contributions may also be placed in
the Sunday offering by using the special “Jesus Video” envelope, the weekly
contributions envelope, or a pew envelope marked “Jesus Videos”. Thank you!.
PREGNANCY ASSISTANCE
Did you know that according to the Center for Disease
Control statistics, 1,186,039 abortions were performed in 1997? That’s about
one every 30 seconds!
That’s why the work of PAC is so important – saving lives
of unborn babies. This year’s Walk for Life to be held Sept. 7 will again help
fund the work of PAC. If you would like to walk and need a pledge form, call
324-4646. If you would like to sponsor a walker, call Monyean Hahn at
362-8390.
PAC fall Wish List:
VCR (new or used) for counseling room
Newer furniture for counseling room
Enfamil with iron (powder)
Maternity clothing
Child safety gates
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PARISH EDUCATION
SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT NEEDED
We are in need a new Sunday School Superintendent, as current
Superintendent Melody Povlock would like to teach and be an assistant to the new
superintendent. We believe a man would be best suited for the position. Please
pray about this! If you feel called to lead the children of St. John’s in this
way, or know someone we should contact, please contact Christel Bublitz at
325-0831.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Despite seemingly discouraging circumstances, God moved
mightily through our VBS, “Let the Children Come”. It was truly exciting
to see Him work, and it was a powerful testimony of what the Lord will do when
His church is obedient to His call. The Holy Spirit really shaped the program,
bringing together just the right Bible verses, stories, songs, crafts,
activities and testimonies to teach and reinforce the Gospel message, as well as
our need to make a life long commitment to grow in the Lord. We were able to
serve 68 children of all ages who got along wonderfully together, older ones
helping younger. The adults who worked as group leaders were great, and the
dedication & enthusiasm of the teen helpers was an inspiring blessing. By the
end of the week, even small children knew 4 to 5 key Bible verses as well as
several songs that expressed them, and were able to understand and tell the
Gospel story using the colors of the “Wordless Book”. A few of the kids
excitedly reported that they had shared the Gospel with others. We had enough
simple supplies donated to make two fun crafts each day relating to our lessons,
and we were able to provide daily snacks. Jesus wanted to spend time with our
children, and He reached them, providing everything we need. Thank you so much
to all who participated, and to God be the Glory! To those of you who were
involved in preparing for the originally scheduled VBS, but were unable to
be with us this week, a tremendous thank you for all the hard work you did. I
know it was a disappointment not to be able to see it through, but God knows and
loves you for your dedication and all you did for Him. The experience you gained
from your work will undoubtedly be an enormous help for next year’s VBS. Because
of the “down home” nature of the program we did this year, we did not need to
use any of the money that was donated during the week of VBS, & it will be saved
for next year. - Sue Rosselli, 2002 VBS Director .
MEMBER GET-TOGETHERS
We will be starting up our Suppers 8 program again this fall,
but with a few changes. We decided to have just two sessions per year instead
of three to give the groups a little more time to meet. We would also like
to try to add a little different format.
The choices will include once a month get-togethers
with three families (adults and children) for a meal and devotions, once a month
get-togethers for adults only for a meal and devotions and once a month
get-togethers with adults for devotions and dessert only. These get-togethers
are a great way to meet, and get to know better, other members of the
congregation. We will be mixing new members with “older” members who can
help them.
Our program will start up again in October, so watch the
bulletin this month for sign-up information in the bulletin.
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PARISH FELLOWSHIP
RALLY DAY OUTDOOR SERVICE & CHURCH PICNIC
“Bring a Friend Sunday”
St. John’s 13th Annual Outdoor Service & Church Picnic will
be held on Sunday, September 8. Everyone is expected to bring a guest -
friend, relative or neighbor - to this special event. Please introduce them to
others and help them feel at home! Name tags will be available from the
Board of Missions & Evangelism at the sign-up desks. (In case of rain, Worship
will be held in the Gym.)
Sunday School Rally Day begins at 9:15 a.m. There will be one
Worship Service Sunday at 10:30 a.m. on the lawn between the Church and the
School buildings. You may bring a lawn chair or blanket and dress comfortably
for the weather. The Worship Committee and Congregation Coordinator have
arranged for special guest preachers: our Deacon for our Hispanic Ministry
(and our new Missions project!), Deacon Tomas Angon, and the Assistant for
Outreach Ministries for the Indiana District.
We will focus on mission projects, especially our Hispanic Ministry & our
Deaf Ministry. Our Interpreter for the Deaf, Shawn Klingbeil will be
interpreting at this service and her husband, Seminary Student Kurt
Klingbeil will assist with the service.
Please make a point to welcome the Hispanic American guests
we have invited to join us!
Immediately following the service (about Noon) is the
Church Picnic, organized by the Board of Parish Fellowship. St. John’s
members are asked to bring their own table service and a large dish to share.
(Try to bring enough for you and your guests.) Food will be served in the
Cafeteria, but you may sit wherever you like. A children’s “Fishing Pond”
and Ice Cream by A.A. L. will follow in the Cafeteria. Then at 1 p.m. games
will begin. Volleyball will be in the Gym (lead by Jessica Shelby & Jose
Luis Cortes) , Bingo in the Cafeteria (run by the Board of Parish Fellowship),
and Bible Trivia in the Music Room (run by Kurt Klingbeil).
We can always use your help with clean-up when it is over.
We expect to begin wrapping up about 2-2:30 pm. Please help us make this a “real
neighborly” outreach event!!
AEROBICS CLASS
The Step Aerobics class is still in full swing and have even
added an extra day!! They are doing Step-Aerobics at St. John’s on Monday,
Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings! Julie Sinclair is the aerobics instructor.
These classes are for men and women. They include a warm-up, a cardio
portion, strength training, abs, and cool down. All fitness levels will be able
to participate, but plan to sweat! (Showers will be available.) Bring clean gym
shoes and comfortable clothes. The class takes place Mondays, Tuesdays, and
Wednesdays, starting promptly at 5:30 p.m. and ending by 6:30 p.m. For more
information, contact Julie at (219)326-0585 or sinergy@csinet.net.
ST. JOHN’S SENIORS
The scheduled dates for the Senior’s Potlucks this
quarter are as follows: Sept. 18, Oct. 16., and Nov. 13 on Wednesdays at
11:30 a.m. in the School Cafeteria. All Seniors in the congregation are invited
to attend - you don’t need to wait to be asked! If you would like more
information, contact Martin Vollrath at 219-324-7537.
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PUBLIC RELATIONS
CHURCH PICTORIAL DIRECTORY
The 2003 St. John’s Pictorial Directory is coming along!
Our second week of family photo sessions with Lifetouch Portraits takes place
Monday, September 23 to Saturday, September 28. If you have not yet signed
up to have your portrait taken, please call the Church Office as soon as
possible at 219-362-3726. Every member who does will receive a free 8 X 10
photo and a free Church Directory. For more information you may contact
directory chairman Pauletta Schuster at 362-1605 or board of Public Relations
Chairman Delores Keller at 362-8778.
This month also we will take photos of each Board,
Committee and Organization at their regular meeting for the directory. If
you will not be meeting in September, please contact Debra Trowbridge to arrange
a time for your organizations photo. We would like everyone included!
LUTHERAN HOUR MINISTRIES PMT
St. John’s Lutheran Hour Ministries group is helping to
sponsor another Parish Media Team Event Level One for the La Porte area on
Saturday, October 26 (probably at the Ramada Inn, La Porte. LHM headquarters
is working out the details and they will be put in the next Newsletter.) This
seminar on media and resources helps church members learn how to promote their
ministries, how to use newspapers, radio, internet, etc., and how to think like
a visitor when doing marketing, making signs, etc. If you are interested in
participating, contact St. John’s Lutheran Hour Ministries Ambassador Debra
Trowbridge at 219-362-3726 or 574-654-7815 or debratrowbridge@stjohns-lpin.org.
St. John’s Lutheran Hour Ministries Group sponsors the
following Lutheran Hour Ministries Programs in our area:
* “Woman to Woman” - Sundays at 7:30 a.m. on WLOI
1540 AM
* “The Lutheran Hour” - Sundays at 10:30 a.m. on
WLOI 1540 AM
(right before St. John’s Worship Service Broadcast at 11
a.m.)
* “On Main Street” - Sundays at Noon on La Porte
Cable Ch. 43
* Project Connect booklets (racks in the Narthex and School)
If you would like to donate toward the continuance of
these important outreach ministries, please use a pew envelope and mark it
“St. John’s Lutheran Hour Ministries (or LHM)”.
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SCHOOL BOARD
PLAYGROUND RESURFACING
The School
Board has purchased 75 recycled timbers, 7,500 sq. ft. of barrier cloth, and
64,000 pounds of “Ground Scape Kids” rubber nuggets. We are going to need a lot
of help when it arrives to install and have fun together. The date has been
set for Saturday, September 14, with a rain date of Sunday, September 15. If
you can install timbers, spread mulch, cook, eat, supervise or play, call
School Board Chairman, Annette Williams, at 326-8017 to participate in this
fun-filled family day. Help us with the beautification and safety updating of
our church & school.
SCHOOL YARD BEAUTIFICATION
St. John’s School Board has set aside money to do some
landscaping around the school. All of the school children are going to
participate in cleaning up and planting plants around the school. If you
have any plants that you will soon be dividing, and would like to donate them to
the school, let us know as soon as possible. If you have design knowledge and
would like to help or have donations, (plants or monetary) please call
School Board Chairman Annette Williams at 326-8017.
BOXTOPS 4 EDUCATION
Did you know there is a way to give money to the school just
by using everyday products, like cereal, cake mixes, and bread dough? It’s
called “Boxtops 4 Education”. On hundreds of items found in your grocery store,
there is the Boxtops for Education symbol. All you have to do is cut it out,
and drop it in the box in the School Office, or send it to school with your
child. The school earns 10 cents for every box top. Last year we earned over
$300! Our goal this year is to double that number. We will be having an all
school contest starting at the end of September, so start clipping those
coupons!
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SOCIAL MINISTRY
The Board of Social Ministry has received requests for nine
children to receive assistance with School tuition, and all are eligible to
receive aid. Requests for tuition assistance are made through the School Office.
As of March 31st, the Board of Social Ministry has a balance of $13,296.52 on
hand from Benevolent Fund and other donations. Food baskets are delivered to
St. John’s needy families monthly. If you know a member in need, call Nancy
Winn (324-9221), Rich or Renee Rutz (362-7896), Deanna Murray (362-8084), Alyce
Compton (324-3807), or Suzanne Howell (326-8694).
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STEWARDSHIP
The Board of Stewardship “GROW” Group’s first meeting takes place on
Tuesday, August 27 at 7 p.m. Anyone who had signed up to help Pastor Koch
with the Fall Stewardship Campaign through the “GROW” Group should attend.
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TRUSTEES
The Board of Trustees recommended that a Building
Committee be formed to continue the work of “Project 2000 and Beyond”. They
are currently working with the Board of Stewardship and the School Board on the
Financial Planning Committee for 2003. Part-time custodian Joanne Lisak
has been hired as a full-time custodian for the school year. New carpeting was
installed in the 3rd Grade classroom this summer. Volunteers are need to trim
the bushes at the Church cemetery. If you can help, contact Paul Shelby or the
Church Office.
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YOUTH BOARD
JUNIOR & SENIOR HIGH YOUTH
The Youth are back from their trip to Peru and ready to start a new school
year of activities. Youth meetings are every Sunday night at 6 p.m. in the
School building. Currently Jr. High and Sr. High Youth are holding Bible
Study and activities together. On the last Sunday of the month (September
25th) they hold their Teen Non-Traditional Worship Service at 6 p.m. (instead
of the meeting). For more information on Youth Group activities, call Youth
Advisor Cheri Schuelke at 219-325-8247.
JUNIOR HIGH YOUTH ADVISORS
St.
John’s Youth Board is now taking applications for Junior High Youth Advisors.
Applicants must be communicant members of St. John’s, 21 years of age or
older. Assistant Youth Leaders may be 18 years of age or older. For more
information, contact Youth Board Chairman, Julie Childress, at (219) 785-4232.
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News from Indiana District & Synod…
EVANGELISM CONFERENCE IN INDY
Can we clone Christians in order to grow the Church? Probably
not. Attend the Indiana District Evangelism Conference on Saturday, September
14th, 2002, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Indianapolis to learn effective
ways to grow. As for cloning, attend the workshop on how to witness our faith in
the face of advances in bioethics that is part of this conference. Cost is $3.00
for lunch. Register by calling the Church Office at 219-362-3726.
WORSHIP & SPIRITUAL CARE WORSKSHOP
The IN District Worship & Spiritual Care Committee is
sponsoring a workshop on Mon., Sept. 16 at Faith Lutheran Church in
Greenfield, IN, just east of Indianapolis off 1-70. The day begins at 9 a.m.
with Matins at 9:30 a.m., followed by sessions that include: “Worship &
Current Culture”, “Directing the Children’s Choir”, “Music for the Adult Choir”
or “Music for the Children’s Choir”. The day ends with Suffrages at 3:15
p.m. Cost is $25.00 per person, which includes a noon lunch.
Pre-registration deadline is Aug. 30. Call the Church Office for info.
JR. & SR. HIGH YOUTH IN INDIANA DISTRICT
Jr. High Youth Rally for the Indiana District takes place
September 13 & 14 at Camp Lakeview or September 14 & 15 at Camp Lutherhaven. The
theme is “This Changes Everything” - Eph. 2:1-10. Sr. High Youth Rally
for the Indiana District takes place in Indianapolis November 8-10.
Registration takes place August 31 to October 5th. (Please register early -
limit of 500). Theme is “Let Us Fix Our Eyes on Jesus” - Heb. 12:2.
For more info see Debra at the Church Office.-
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St. John’s 13th Annual
Rally Day Outdoor Service
& Church Picnic
Sunday, Sept. 8, 2002
Schedule of Events:
9:15 a.m.
- Sunday School Rally Day Activities (in Church Basement) & Adult Bible Classes
(in School)
10:30 a.m. - Outdoor Service (on church lawn) with a Guest
preacher from LCMS IN District Outreach, & No. Cen. IN Hispanic Ministry Deacon
Tomas Angon. An Interpreter for the Deaf will also be present.
Noon - Potluck Picnic in School Cafeteria
12:30 p.m. - Fish Pond for the Children
1 p.m. - Games: Volleyball in the Gym, Bingo in the
Cafeteria, Bible Trivia in the Music Room
and Ice Cream served in Cafeteria
2 p.m. Clean-up (Please stay & help if you can.)
All are asked to bring a friend or relative!
St. John’s Members Please Bring: At least one friend,
neighbor, or relative; lawn chairs or blankets; a large dish to share; table
service for you and your friends
Refreshments/cups provided by Walther League Chorus.
Ice Cream provided by A.A. L. Branch #317.
St. John’s Luth. Church, at Kingsbury & Monroe
(Hwy. 4),
La Porte, IN 219-362-3726 www.stjohns-lpin.org
St. John’s Lutheran Church & School
111 Kingsbury Avenue, La Porte, IN 46350
Church—(219) 362-3726 (voice mail) School
(219)362-6692 (voice mail)
FAX—(219) 362-2237 TDD (for hearing impaired) (219)
362-4742
Web site: www.stjohns-lpin.org General E-mail:stjohns@stjohns-lpin.org
Church Staff
Intentional Interim Pastor—Rev. Karl Koch - (574) 876-9848
(cell)
or email: pastorkoch@stjohns-lpin.org
Visitation Pastor—Rev. James Beversdorf - (219) 465-3921
(home)
or email: pastorjim@stjohns-lpin.org
Congregation Coordinator & Interim Office Manager—Mrs. Debra
Trowbridge - (574) 654-7815 (home) or debratrowbridge@stjohns-lpin.org
Volunteer Pastors’ Secretary - Imogene Dahl - (219) 324-6668
Bookkeeper & Interim Office Assistant - Mrs. Stacy Tharp
Director of Music Ministries—Mr. Matt Nelson - (219) 362-7317
(home)
Organist—Mrs. Susan Rosselli - (219) 324-8364 (home)
Head Custodian—Mr. Barry Siddall - (219) 325-2956 (pager)
Assistant Custodian - Mrs. Joanne Lisak
School Staff
School Principal—Mr. David Wippich (219) 362-9288 (home)
Ms. Mary Rooney (Admin. Asst.), Mrs. Rio Light (Daycare/
Pre-school), Mrs. Karla Eigenmann (Kindergarten), Mrs. Marlene Will (1st Grade),
Mrs. Sally Foglesong (2nd Grade), Mrs. Lois Krider (3rd Grade),
Mrs. Jan Martinsen (4th Grade), Mrs. Jennifer Van’t Hof (5th
Grade),
Mrs. Mindy Bremer (6th Grade), Mrs. Cheryl Hoard (7th Grade) ,
Miss Julie Stelter (8th Grade).
Congregation Officers & Board Chairmen:
President—Mr. Chuck Link, Jr.—(219) 326-1069
Vice President—Mr. James Crum—(219) 324-2985
Treasurer—Mr. Jeff Scherer—(219) 362-5333
Secretary—Mrs. Penny Nelson—(219) 362-7317
Elders—Mr. Mark Jerndt—(219) 326-1177
Trustees—Mr. Paul Shelby—(219) 369-1363
School Board—Mrs. Annette Williams - (219)326-8017
Missions & Evangelism—Elyse Heidel—(219) 326-1866
Parish Education—Mrs. Christel Bublitz—(219) 325-0831
Parish Fellowship—Mrs. Jeanette Darby—(219)362-3891
Public Relations—Mrs. Delores Keller—(219) 362-8778
Social Ministry—Mrs. Nancy Winn—(219) 324-9221
Stewardship—Mr. Dwayne Rogers— unlisted
Youth Board—Mrs. Julie Childress—(219) 785-4232
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