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July 2004 Newsletter
    
Deadline for Newsletter Articles for next month is the 15th of the month.
Email the Church Office or fax the office at 330-836-8872
Use Newsletter submission form here on the website or place in church office newsletter mail box.
Renewing Worship Liturgy
Introduced At 10:45 a.m. Worship
During the past three years the ELCA has been in the process of developing new worship resources to succeed the Lutheran Book of Worship (the green hymnal). These resources will be presented officially at the Churchwide Assembly in August of 2005.
We have already begun using songs/hymns from the Renewing Worship Songbook (note the "R" by the page number) and throughout the summer during 10:45 a.m. worship we will "test" portions of the liturgy.
The ELCA is requesting feedback from its members on these materials. After we have begun using the liturgy, please contact Pastor Jean if you wish to offer your comments to the ELCA.
SUNDAY JULY 4
One Worship Service - 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Featuring special music, patriotic hymns and reflections on:
Why I'm thankful to live in the United States.
Come early for Fellowship! Light Breakfast 9-9:45 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall
Voices of Faith"
Another opportunity is available for those who like to sing. The "Voices of Faith" will sing "The Battle Hymn" on July 4. You don't need to read music to sing. We will practice July 1 from 7:00-8:15 pm and child care will be provided. All are welcome!
Summer Music Schedule
July 4 - Voices of Faith, July 11 - Shirley Kmet and Rae Welker, July 25 - Joanne Caton
Summer Vacation
In the June "Beacon of Faith" Pastor Jean wrote: "Don't take a vacation from church this summer". I remember Pastor Stan commenting on a decrease in church attendance during the summertime. Therefore, I believe this is not just a problem in our church, but also a problem with many churches. One of Faith's most recent mission teams is the "Faith Saturday Worship Prayer Group". I am its Team Leader.
This is a group of dedicated members of Faith that make a commitment to pray each Saturday for our worship services and those individuals assisting particular services. I send through U.S. mail or E-mail a weekly memo to the team suggesting prayer petitions for their consideration. A new petition, that I will suggest for a month or two is: "Pray that more of God's families, especially Faith's family members, will be inspired to attend worship services no matter what the weather may be."
If you feel called to be a member of this team, please call me or Carolyn Wagar. Those who are not members of this team might want to consider using the above prayer petition in your prayers. May the good Lord bless you and keep you; may His face continue to shine on and through you and may you continue to find His peace that passes all understanding.
In prayer, Bill Pope
Time for Action!
Our congregation has as part of its Vision Statement, "…to transform followers into disciples with a faith that works in real life…." The followers would be you, me, the people in the pews. Since we are all called to become more like Christ and be His disciples, here are some ways to make that happen. I have included Scripture passages so that you can do a little personal mini Bible Study. Have fun!
Pray Frequently - we should be praying for discernment, wisdom, excitement, transformation, among many other things. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18); Continue to Learn - the more I attend seminary classes, the more I realize I have to learn! We should never think that we've learned everything God would like us to know. Attend a Bible Study, book study, or do a personal devotion each day. (Psalm 119:105); Worship Regularly - God doesn't take vacation. Missing worship is like missing a meal… you need it to survive! (Psalm 34:1-3); Invite, Invite, Invite! We have a great community of believers at FLC. Tell a friend or neighbor, a grocery clerk, your doctor. Tell somebody! (Romans 10:14-15); Serve Others - People matter to God. People matter to God. People matter to God. Not just people who look like us or think like us, but ALL people. We need to learn to love and serve them. (Mark 10:45); Give Early and Often - God loves us and forgives us, glory hallelujah! How do we respond to that news? Are we generous with our time, our talents, and our possessions? (Luke 6:38)
In prayer, Bill Pope
It was a dark and stormy night…
… when 20 women of Faith took a collective risk to participate in an Extreme Spiritual Makeover Retreat. Braving the late afternoon storm, on Friday, May 21, (one of the stormiest days this Spring), a convoy of women traveled to retreat at Loyola of the Lakes, a Jesuit retreat center in Clinton, Ohio.
Accommodations were comfortable and hospitable, despite the lack of electricity due to power outages from the storm! Nevertheless, all women in attendance found the "dark and stormy night" made our retreat from the world more meaningful. Flashlights and candles dotted the hallways and meeting room. Our evening devotions in the darkened chapel became a meditation on adapting to the unexpected and drawing closer to God in the moment.
The 24 hour retreat really just served as a springboard for our extreme spiritual makeovers - we realize it is a life-long process. Still, we studied scripture and considered practical advice on matters for our personal spiritual growth. We talked about our loving Creator who fashioned and made each one of us. We examined our attitudes and the need for forgiveness. We looked at our roles as women in the world. Guest appearances by Mary Magdalene, Gladys the High School Nerd and Noah's Wife, added to the excitement as they spoke of their own extreme spiritual makeovers. In closing worship, we shared symbols of our own faith journeys, noting that in Christ each one of us is a new creation.
This retreat started out with a mysterious opening scene. There was an exciting plot line, great character development, and a satisfying conclusion. The women who attended made new friends and experienced spiritual growth. They sang together, laughed together and prayed together. They studied scripture and worshiped our Lord. And even though all good stories come to an end… this one doesn't want to! It promises to be "just the beginning." Carolyn Wagar reports that, due to such an overwhelmingly positive response, another Women's Retreat is already in the works, probably scheduled for February when many of us could use a little break from the winter blahs. All women of Faith are invited to attend.
Graduates
Graduating from High School - Katie Gottas, Abby Pennov
Ted Mallison, son of Karen and Jeff, graduated from Kent State University with an Education Degree in History.
Ken Shook graduated from Kent State University with a B.B.A., Bachelor of Business Administration Degree, on May 8, 2004.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
July 12 - July 16 - 9 am - 12:00 pm
For children age 3 to completed 4th grade. , The cost is $20.00 per child, maximum of $40.00 per family., "Camperships" are available if needed. New this year-5th - 8th grades sign up to be a Jr. Counselor, Pre-register today!!!
Interested in volunteering? Contact Beth Gsellman(330-867-4569)
Summer Youth Retreats Scheduled
The dates for the summer retreats are as follows: (Be sure to mark them on your calendars now! We hope to see all of you). High School (all those entering grades 9-12) Wednesday, July 28 3:00 p.m. -11:00 p.m.
Middle School (all those entering 7th & 8th grade) Wednesday, August 4 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Both retreats will be held on our property in Sullivan. Don't worry, transportation will be provided! We'll have a chance to hike, canoe, do the "low ropes" course, see all of Leo's animals (finally) and lots more. It will be a great chance to continue to fellowship and strengthen our foundation as a group.
Please plan to attend! Leo and Wendy will be calling!
Early Service
Faith Early Service is in need of Usher and Altar Guild volunteers. One usher is needed for August and one for November 2004. One altar guild attendant is needed for September and one for November, 2004. Please contact Don or Barbara Dillahunt to serve in these Levitical positions.
Summer Giving
We give thanks for the faithful giving of Faith members; your support of the church's ministry is APPRECIATED!
As summer approaches, and more and more folks are away on Sundays, the Finance Team encourages your continued financial support of our ministry … and wants to make it easy. Did you notice that in your envelope packet for July, August and September (it arrived recently in the mail) there are several envelopes that you can use to send your offering to the church? It will be great to see you in worship often this summer, but when you are unable to be here, it will be good to know you are remembering the church in your prayers and with your gifts!
School Supplies Project
Summer has just begun, but we're already thinking about the re-opening of school at the end of August. Once again, Summit County Children's Services is asking for our help in their annual campaign to collect and package school supplies. These donations provide school supplies to children in needy client families and to foster children. The goal is to help more than 1,000 children start the year with the necessary tools. The last day to bring in these supplies is Sunday, August 8. Please help us! Thank you! The Service Committee
Suggestions: For kindergarten through Middle/High School
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat Volunteer Builders Coalition
The Habitat for Humanity HVB Coalition will be building another house this year. The site and a partner family have already been selected. This will be the coalition's 14th house. Construction will begin on August 6. Many volunteers will be needed to help with construction, landscaping, dry walling, and painting.
HVB will also be participating the Fairlawn 4th of July Parade. Volunteers are needed to ride on the float and to walk with the float and pass out Habitat literature. Please contact Lauren Brown at 330-668-8993 if you are interested in participating
THANK YOU!
Thank you for your donations to Calvary Lutheran Church in East Cleveland. We collected $1, 855.
Attention
Attention all Sunday school/Explorers club students, past and present: In a future "Moments of Faith," we want to pay tribute to our Faith Lutheran Church teachers. We want to hear from adults who remember a teacher from their growing up years, and we want to hear from children and youth who are currently in Explorers Club. Just say "I remember (teacher's name) and (a lesson, an activity, a comment, an example, etc. the teacher presented, said, etc.). Your name (and year he/she was your teacher, if you recall)." No need to elaborate. Please send to Steve Thompson via email at st@uakron.edu by July 12, 2004. We'll publish all replies!
Greetings from Colorado!
Dear Friends in Christ,Greetings from Colorado! I'm beginning my tenth month of internship. I don't know if this is possible or not, but time seems to have gone by really fast and really slow. My mom was able to come out for a week in April. But, other than her visit I have not had visitors from home. Whenever I was working at the church, time went fast. But, on days off, especially holidays, I missed home. Denver has an outdoor amphitheatre called Red Rocks. It's an amazing place, but I still prefer the green grass at Blossom Music Center. There really is no place like home.
You have been so gracious to me. I will always have a place in my heart for Faith Lutheran. The gifts you sent this last year, during my internship, I don't know how to tell you the extent of how much they helped me. Your encouragement makes me want to be the best I can be. It adds new meaning to the saying, "To whom much is given, much is required." I pray that I have been and will be a good steward.
I'm beginning to plan my return to Columbus, which will take place some time during the third or fourth week of August. Although I am anxious to return and finish seminary, it will be hard to say goodbye to my internship site and to the beautiful state of Colorado. Interns are in a somewhat strange place. We know our expiration dates the first day on the job. I've become immersed in the life of this congregation, but soon I will move to a new place. My feelings are all over the place.
I know your thoughts and prayers are with me, and I continue to pray for you. God's peace be with you always,
John Maroni, 1734 W. Crestline Ave., Littleton, CO 80120
Fairlawn July 4th Parade
Parade begins at 6:30 p.m. (The route is on Market Street from Fairlawn Towne Plaza to Summit Mall.) Arrive at 5:30 p.m. to walk with the float and pass out candy OR to distribute bottles of water
with a message from Faith! Celebrate July 4 with your family of Faith
Scrapbooking
July 6 - 6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Child Care Provided
Summer Learning Opportunity
Many people have expressed a desire to read and study the book, "A Purpose Driven Life" by Pastor Rick Warren. Carolyn will be leading this study on Wednesdays July 7 and July 14. There will be two identical studies at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Childcare will be provided. You do need a copy of the book, but you do NOT need to read the book before we begin. This book can be found at all major book stores, Christian book stores, and at a discount in Sam's Club.
Family Fun Day!
FREE Band Concerts! FOOD! CLOWNS! MORE!
Bake Sale!
Invite your friends and family to attend the Great American Bake Sale here at Faith Lutheran Church and help raise money to feed the over 13 million hungry children in our country.
WHEN:Saturday, July 17 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
WHERE:Faith Lutheran Church
WHAT:Bake sale and so much more! Animals- Refreshments-Clowns-Face Painting
WHAT ELSE:Our very own Flashlight Band will be providing FREE outdoor concerts.
Moms of Faith
We will be off in the month of July due to my moving. We will resume our meetings on the first and third Monday evenings of each month in August. Please call me if you have any questions. God's Peace. Joanne Caton 330-865-6744.
Faith Golf Outing
July 25 - 3:00 p.m. PINE VALLEY GOLF COURSE - REIMER ROAD, WADSWORTH - Watch your Weekly Beacon for more details.
SUMMER BIBLE STUDY with Pastor Jean
The Book of Revelation from the Inspire Bible Study Series
Six Weeks Wednesdays, 7-8 p.m., July 28-September 1 OR Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m., July 29-September 2 Child Care will be provided at both
Sunday, September 12
One service for all at 10:00 a.m., Rally Day Activities for Explorer's Club and Picnic for the entire congregation following the service. Watch for full details in the August Beacon of Faith
THANK YOU!
From Blanche Werrbach:Thank you ever so much for the beautiful prayer shawl. I shall treasure it forever. Thank you again and may the Good Lord watch over you and keep you in his love.
From Nancy, Jim, and Hazen Tobar: Dear Friends at Faith,I would like to thank you for your prayers and kind words during my sister's illness. Your kindness and caring mean so much to us.
From Mothers Together:On behalf of Mothers Together, we would like to thank you for your generous support over the years. We truly appreciate all you do to keep Mothers Together a part of Faith Lutheran Church. It has been a pleasure working with you. We look forward to seeing you in the fall.
ACCESS
From Barbara Reiter, Executive DirectorOn behalf of the board members, satff and clients at ACCESS, Inc. I thank you for your June 16, 2004 contribution of 80 sack lunches. Your continued support is truly appreciated.
It is with donations such as yours that ACCESS is able to meet the wide variety of our clients' needs. Since 1984, ACCESS' emergency shelter has provided services to over 11,500 women and children, while our Step II transitional housing program has served 30 single women since opening in 1997. Thank you for helping us to provide a holistic, safe and supportive environment for homeless women and children in our community.
In Our Prayers:
Health Concerns: Faith member Tom Parsons, Faith member Bill Evan's wife Diane, Faith member Andy Simpson
Special Prayers: For all military personnel who have been deployed to Iraq and surrounding areas, and for their families, with special prayers for those who have endured injury or loss. For Joshua Dunning, half-brother of Faith members Jasmine and Carly Dunning. Joshua is serving in the military in Iraq and recently lost a friend there.
In Times of Loss: For Faith member Nancy Tobar and family upon the death of her sister Diane Ristau on May 17.
For Faith members Ron and Carol Garman and family upon the death of Ron's mother on June 17.
In Thanksgiving: We rejoice with Faith member Larissa White, daughter of Barry and Norma White, and Chris Hatt who were married at Faith Lutheran Church on June 12.We rejoice with Ken and Anita Wilson upon the baptism of their son, Gregory Peter, on June 13.
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