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| September 2007 Newsletter |
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Greetings, in the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! This month of September sees the kick-off of our congregation’s immersion into “Experiencing God.” We’ve said a few words about it here in the Newsletter, and there have been several mentions of it in the Message and the Prayers on Sunday mornings. But what is “Experiencing God?” Under that title, the workbook reads, “Knowing and Doing the Will of God.” And so, the picture we often see associated with this series is a picture of the face of Moses illuminated by the light of the burning bush. Haven’t you ever wondered what it would be like to have that kind of experience? To have God come in some unmistakable way like that and commission you to be about His work? Well, that’s what “Experiencing God” is about. The point the series makes is that God is always at work … and He is doing so all around us. The series helps us use the Scriptures to open up our spiritual eyes to see what God is doing. And also use His Word to open us up to His calling to join Him in His work. No, we are not talking about direct revelations … or burning bushes. But to be aware that God does use His Inspired Word, our circumstances, prayer, and even the church to reveal to us what He is doing and how each of us, and all of us collectively, as a congregation, are, and can be, part of what God is accomplishing. You know, at one point the disciples asked Jesus what works God would have them do, and Jesus replied, “Believe in the one He has sent.” Now, “believe” in this context means more than just recite the Creed. It means exercising faith and trust in our Lord for our salvation and for our lives in the here and now. You see, we are all here by God’s intent and purpose. Our journey together will be all about Our Lord. By His Spirit, drawing closer to Him , and also by His Spirit, putting our LIVES in His hands. So, we begin September 30. The Messages and the Adult Bible Study will take us through the high points of the 12 chapters in the series. We STRONGLY urge all of us to engage this material through small group discussion as well. The times and days of the week those groups will meet will be announced shortly. These are very exciting times! We ask your prayers that the Lord will be our guide. In Him, Pastor Fausel Blessed Again!Less than 10 days ago I was sitting on my back porch talking to God. Actually I was thanking Him for sending us so many new preschool child care students. God has truly blessed this new program. As a result we have 5 more preschoolers enrolled this year than last year. The preschool child care program is full on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Monday and Friday only have a few spaces left.As I was thanking God, I happened to say, “We sure could use 4 or 5 more new students in the grades, too.” Wouldn’t you know it, within five days of making that request of God, we enrolled four new students in K-8. We thank Him again for continuing to bless this ministry. As I write this on August 15, we anticipate starting the school year with 183 students in preschool through grade eight. In addition, there are two more preschoolers in childcare only for which we had no room in the three year old class. We look forward to another grand year of ministry as we are continually blessed by God. Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7 In Christ, Martin A. Brieschke We Give Him PraiseGod has given His people the gifts to do so much but yet it is said, “I don’t see where God is working”. This monthly feature will spotlight different areas where people have seen God at work through His people . No names will be used for these are acts of service to the Glory of God. For this month we give thanks and praise to God for:
Sunday School NewsIt is hard to believe it is the beginning of a new Sunday School Year!First of all, THANKS to all the volunteer teachers who taught during the summer. Second of all, Welcome to all of our classroom teachers. We hope that the summer offered fun, friendship and fellowship with family and friends near and far.
Note to Parents: Help is always welcomed and appreciated. Please think about being a part of your child's Sunday School experience! It will be great for you and your child! Call Heidi, Leanne or Diane Rowan with ideas and inquiries about where you can help. THANKS! Thrivent Basket AssemblyPlease come help the Jefferson County Thrivent Board assemble baskets for the Kentucky Health Twist and Bid Again Gala Silent Auction on September 11 at 5 PM in the school Library. All materials will be provided. All you need to bring is your creative eyes and hands to put them together. If you have any questions please contact Jan Darnell at jdarnell at insightbb.com or 477-6484.Men’s Ministry BreakfastPancake Breakfast2nd Saturday of the month Saturday, September 8, 8:00 – 9:30 AM Hope Under Construction: Insights Into the Life of Nehemiah Led by Paul Nickel Join us and bring a friend! Book ClubWe will meet September 2, at the Bristol on Hurstbourne Lane after the late service to discuss S Is For Silence, by Sue Grafton. Call Karen Osborne, 243-1765.Meals on Wheels Volunteers NeededIf you are interested in assisting with serving Meals on Wheels in the community of the church to people in need of nutritious meals on Mondays please contact Caroline Wesley at 244-6761. You can determine the amount of time you want to commit to the program.Golden OldiesJoining together in Christian Fellowship, Education, & RecreationAt each gathering you generally will find: Lunch at 12:00 PM Devotions Speakers on a variety of topics or entertainment Brief business meeting Usually meet the 3rd Monday ofeach month Occasional field trips or outings On Monday, September 17, we will enjoy a Kentucky Chautauqua presentation by Edward B. Smith as “Adolph Rupp, The Coach”. This program is funded in part by the Kentucky Humanities council and the National Endowment for Humanities. Please join us for the program and fellowship. It’s Almost Time For “Experiencing God”I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing. – John 15:5There is much being written in this newsletter about Experiencing God. You will read and hear much more over the months to come. Why? What is behind this saturated exposure to Experiencing God? Our goal is not to complete some mental or intellectual exercise. Our goal is not to provide you with the opportunity to learn a new set of facts or expose you to new or additional information. Our goal is that each and every member of our congregation will have a life-transforming encounter with God! Pastor Fausel’s 12 week sermon series will introduce each week’s theme and give us a taste of the week’s study has in store. Sunday morning Bible study beginning October 7th in the gym will take us a little deeper into the week’s theme. This will be the only adult Sunday morning Bible class through the end of January. But the real fleshing out of the bones will occur through the small group studies that will take place during the week. As of this writing there are at least 12 different times during the week when an Experiencing God small groups will be meeting. Watch for flyers in the Sunday bulletin containing details about each group. Sign up sheets for each of these groups are posted on the windows outside my office. The sign up sheet indicates the day and time each group meets as well as who is leading the group and where the group will be meeting. Each group is limited to 12 participants. Child care will be offered when needed. Small groups will meet once a week for about 90 minutes to review, share, and extend what participants have been studying independently during the previous week. Yes, there is daily homework involved. Elsewhere in this newsletter there is an announcement regarding the Introductory Information Potluck Dinner following the late service on September 30th. We encourage everyone to attend especially if you have signed up for a small group, are interested but have not sign up yet, have questions or even if you’re not interested or it’s not possible for you at this time. It is at this dinner where the whole experience will be laid out for you. You will get your questions answered. You will have the opportunity to commit yourself to this experience, receive the materials you need, meet your group leader, and be prepared to begin your first week’s work. If you are on the fence, you will be able to make an informed decision. If you are not able to participate at this time at least you will be informed. Because of budget constraints there will be a cost of $20 per person to cover your participants book and other materials needed for group leaders, videos, etc. Paul Nickel Director of Christian Education Look forward to Experiencing God through His Word in your daily life! Summer Sunday Morning Adult Bible ClassThis month and continuing through September 30th all adults are encouraged to attend the HEROES OF THE FAITH Bible Class that is meeting in the Fellowship Hall. Because of the comings and goings of our members during the summer months each study is designed to stand alone. That is, you will not feel lost or behind if you miss one or more weeks at a time. Pastor Fausel and Paul Nickel will be leading the study. Here is the schedule for September:September 2nd – Woman at the Well September 9th – Stephen September 16th – Philip September 23rd – Peter September 30th - Paul Find Out What All The Excitement Is AboutEXPERIENCING GODSmall Group Bible Study INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION POTLUCK DINNER Sunday, September 30th Immediately Following Late Service Notes from the Music DirectorDear friends in Christ,We are told that at the top of every music manuscript of the great Johann Sebastian Bach appear the two Latin words: “Iesu, iuva!”— “Jesus, help!” The world’s mightiest master of music did not dare place his fingers on the organ or compose a single melody without first calling on his Lord for help. In Luther’s Small Catechism we are instructed to begin every day with a prayer to God for guidance and protection and then “go joyfully to our work, singing a hymn,” trusting that God will grant success to all that we undertake in His name. The secret of successful living, of progress and achievement, lies not in mastering the techniques of applied psychology or in the bold venturesomeness which comes from “knowing all the angles”— but in “abiding in the Vine” being grafted into the Savior, who is the Source of all our strength. “I am the Vine, you are the branches,” says Jesus, “he that abides in Me, and I in Him, the same brings forth much fruit, for without Me you can do nothing.” Paul had experienced the truth of this assertion. That is why he could say: “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Let us make sure that in every task we undertake, be it great or small, we are undertaking it with Christ and in Christ; then we can be confident that we will prevail through Christ! We now begin another school year after a summer of rest. In this newsletter are written many opportunities for you to “abide in the Vine” through Christian Education, and participation in the Ministry of Our Savior Lutheran Church. I encourage you to take advantage of these many opportunities for your personal growth. Join us in Bible Study. Bring your children and grandchildren! As we set forth having committed our endeavor to Him in prayer, let us launch forth cheerfully, boldly, confidently—knowing that in all things He will guide and bless us. Whatever the outcome, be it success or even seeming failure, we will know that our labors have been performed in His name and the results will be in accord with His good and gracious purpose. Yours in Christ, Scott Kamman Our Savior Music “Notes”Hymn of the month: The children in our dayschool learn a special hymn or song of the month as part of their worship and religion class experience. For the month of August, they will be learning the classic hymn, “With the Lord Begin Your Task,” from the German collection Morgen- und Abend-segen, Waldenburg, 1734. Read our theme verse for the school year, Colossians 3:17, and see if these lyrics weren’t perhaps inspired by that verse. With the Lord begin your task, Jesus will direct it; For His aid and counsel ask, Jesus will perfect it. Every morn with Jesus rise, And when day is ended, In His name then close your eyes; Be to Him commended. Chapel worship: Everyone is invited to worship with the school children each week as they gather for chapel on Wednesdays at 8:45 AM in the sanctuary. It is an excellent opportunity for midweek worship. Come and join us! Sep. 5 Pastor Fausel Sep. 12 Guest Pastor Sep. 19 Paul Nickel, DCE Sep. 26 Principal Marty Brieschke Answer to the August quiz: The song that proclaims “Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise” is “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” (LSB 686). September quiz: Which song reminds us “Not the labors of my hands can fulfill Thy Law’s demands”? Contemporary Worship Teams NEED YOU! Singers and musicians, if you are out there, know that we are still in need of volunteers to help us out at our 11:00 AM Majestic Celebration worship services. We are in special need of a keyboard leader and guitarists, as well as wind instrumentalists and vocalists. If you would like to sing or play on a regular basis, talk to Scott (426-1130). Time commitment depends solely on you, as little or as much as you desire. Summer is a great time to hop in and get your feet wet….give it a try! Hearing Assist devices: Had trouble hearing well in our sanctuary? These small sound amplifying devices are available from the ushers. Please ask for them! They amplify what is going through our sound system. If you would like to purchase your own personal set of earphones for use with the church sound system, please contact the church office. (These devices do not work outside the sanctuary.) Worship Notes! In an effort to try to help us all learn about our worship life and liturgy, we offer this little “tidbit” of information each month. It can serve as a review for you, an answer to that question, “Why do we do that?”, or as a teaching tool for our children or grandchildren. Please share this with your family. Discuss it prior to worship. If there is something you would like to have answered, let me know. I’ll do my best to find out! Check out this month’s edition of “Worship Notes!” THIS MONTH’S WORSHIP NOTES: Every once in a while, we stand for the last verse of a hymn. Why is that? We are standing to show reverence to God during the singing of a Trinitarian verse. Music MinistryOur Savior’s Fall Music Program will be starting up soon. We have many opportunities for service for those of you who have been blessed with musical talent and wish to use it for God’s glory. This is a great way to not only serve the Lord, but also do something that you enjoy. Please feel free to give our groups a try! We’d love to have you.Adult Choir will be starting up again on Thursday, September 6 with a choir open house and refreshments. We will continue to meet on Thursday evenings from 7:30 PM to 8:45 PM in the music room. Anyone, high school age or older, is welcome to join us. This is a great way to use your talents in an enjoyable way. We are especially in need of male singers. Come join us! Questions? Talk to Scott Kamman. Contemporary Worship Teams still graciously welcome any musician who is interested in using his or her talent to help us in our contemporary worship. Schedules for worship teams will be drawn up in August for the fall. If you would like to sing or play on a regular basis, talk to Scott Kamman. Time commitment depends solely on you, as little or as much as you desire. We are in need of both singers and instrumentalists. Adult Handbell Choir will be starting up on Thursday, September 13. We will meet on Thursday evenings directly before the choir rehearsal, beginning at 6:30 PM in the choir room. Anyone, high school age or older, is welcome to join us. Basic music note reading ability is our only requirement. If you’ve played handbells before, we will need you this fall!! Talk to Scott Kamman. Junior Handbell Choir is for any child from Our Savior Lutheran Church or School in grades 4-8 who has an interest in playing and has some music reading skills. We will be having an informational meeting for new ringers and their parents on Wednesday, August 29 in the music room, from 3:30 to 4:00 PM. If you wish to be involved, but cannot make the meeting, please notify Mr. Kamman. Beginning the first week in September, we will be practicing after school from 3:30 - 4:30 PM in the music room, with beginners meeting on Wednesdays and returning advanced ringers on Tuesdays. Talk to Mr. Kamman if you have questions. Our Savior Lutheran School Band will be starting up this fall for our school children in grades 3-6. Look for more information in upcoming Panther Tales and school mailings. Scott Kamman can be reached at 426-1130 or by email at SRKamma at aol.com. Worship and Spiritual Care WorkshopThe Indiana District is sponsoring a Worship and Spiritual Care Workshop on Saturday, September 15 from 9 AM to PM at Advent Lutheran Church in Zionville, Indiana. The plenary Address “A Lutheran Spirituality” will be given by Rev. Klemet Preus with sectionals presented by Kantor Hildebrand, Rev. David Koeneman, Rev. David Peterson, reading session, and organist workshop, role of hymnody in teaching the faith, the use of the LSB as a devotional resource and the Lutheran view of the rubrics. The cost (which includes lunch) is $25/per person. Registration forms are available from the church office. A flyer for this program is located on the church bulletin board.Why Our Savior Lutheran Church Needs ChristCare Small Group MinistrySmall group ministry is a biblical way for Our Savior Lutheran Church to serve members’ needs, equip them for a life of discipleship, and reach out to others with Jesus’ love.COMMUNITYGod created people to live in Christian community -- one of God’s most precious gifts. ChristCare small groups are one of the best places for people to experience life-giving relationships with Jesus and with one another.People long for warm, meaningful relationships with others, but often find it difficult to form and keep them. ChristCare small groups overcome obstacles of awkwardness and superficiality by providing people with comfortable ways of building personal relationships that can grow and deepen over time. Congregation members -- both new and sometimes even established members -- can have a hard time developing a sense of belonging. ChristCare small groups make it possible for members to connect personally with others, establish strong bonds of friendship, and be part of the life and mission of Our Savior Lutheran Church. CAREPeople in our congregation have a variety of needs for care. ChristCare small groups are an excellent way to provide specific kinds of nurturing care:
DISCIPLESHIPJesus’ Great Commission is to “Go...and make disciples...” ChristCare small groups are fertile ground for growing disciples and helping members mature in faith.ChristCare small group members are prepared for Christian life and service through the Biblical Equipping that takes place in ChristCare small groups. ASSIMILATIONNew church members are much more likely to remain members when they form meaningful relationships in the congregation. People more easily form such relationships in ChristCare small groups.Research indicates that 80% of new members are willing to join groups, and will do so if groups are available. SPIRITUAL GROWTHChristians grow spiritually when they regularly encounter God’s Word. Relevant, participatory Bible study is a major part of ChristCare small groups.Through word and deed, ChristCare small group members help one another understand that God cherishes them. In ChristCare small groups, members discuss their relationship with Jesus and encourage one another to trust God more completely. CONGREGATIONAL GROWTHChristCare small group members get excited about their groups and invite others to come and experience the same blessings.ChristCare small groups are an attractive “port of entry” into Our Savior’s congregational life, especially for those who may be reluctant to come to a formal worship service at first. Those who are not Christians come to believe in Jesus as Christ’s love is lived for them and shared with them in ChristCare small groups. Many people will seek out our congregation when word gets out that we provide ChristCare small group experiences of a Christian community. Meet Our ChristCare Groups! For information about when and where these groups meet, please contact the leader. Seniors Sharing Our Faith Focus: All Seniors Leader: Norm Kendt Phone: 254-1612 Single Seniors for Women Focus: Single Senior Women Leader: Emily Hayes Phone: 253-5541 C2P2 – ChristCare’s Proud Parents Focus: Parents of Elementary and Middle School Children Leader: Scott Kamman Phone: 254-1308 Soul Food Focus: Anyone interested in in-depth Bible study Leader: Mark and Pat Otten Phone: 244-5903 Meets every other Sunday YALL - Young Adult Lutheran Life Focus: Young Adults Leader: David & Leah Robison Phone: 938-4766 Meets every Wedendsay, 7:30 - 9:00, at 1505 Cadence Ct Your ChristCare Equipper Team Charles and Marsha Puckett, 473-1691 Paul Nickel, 426-1130 International LLL Convention for 2008 in LexingtonThe 2008 International LLL Convention Committee continues organizing this exciting event to be held in Lexington, KY on July 24-27, 2008. Members discussed plans in the works for a fulfilled Family Night and the speakers who will inspire us with God's Word. The convention committee chairs took a special tour of the Lexington Convention Center Complex, where many of the convention events and meetings will be held, and the Radisson and Hyatt Hotels, which will serve as the convention hotels.If you interested in serving as a volunteer for the convention, the committee is still looking for chairpersons to serve the Children/Nursery and Transportation Committees, as well as a pastor to chair the Worship Committee. If you think you or someone you know has the talents and desire to serve as a chair for one of these committees, please contact Roger Fischer, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or 859-548-2625. Many volunteers will also be needed during the days of the convention itself. More information on those opportunities will be available as the convention approaches. You can also assist the 2008 Convention committee as it continues its preparations by pre-registering for the convention. Advance registration is open and helps to provide seed money for convention planning. Please consider registering early. This will be an event you won't want to miss! Plus, by registering early, you can receive a special commemorative leather coaster featuring the 2008 International Convention logo. More information is available from registration chairman Greg Walts, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or 812-923-8803. The Survey Says — Part IILast month we shared responses from the first four questions of the Congregational Survey done in the spring. This month we’ll look at questions #5-#8.Year SA A NO D SD NROnce again it appears that our congregation’s attitude toward facility availability has improved. 96% of those responding either agreed or strongly agreed with the statement. We encourage those who wish to use the school facilities to contact our head of the Buildings and Grounds department, Mr. Mike Shorter, to make arrangements. 6. The school communicates effectively 04 14% 53% 9% 21% 3% 0%This question had one of the most drastic improvements in the last three years. We are especially pleased that so many of you are feeling better about communication from the school. We often get positive comments about the availability of the Panther Tale in church mailboxes each week. Please feel free to contact Mr. Brieschke whenever you have a need to communicate. 7. I am willing to financially support the 04 53% 36% 4% 7% 0% 0%We thank God for the continued tremendous financial support the school receives each year. We annually budget approximately $185,000 of support from the congregation. The last two years we have not needed all that. God continues to send us more and more students which helps us meet our financial obligations. 8. Our Savior School provides opportunities 04 40% 41% 14% 4% 0% 0%If you are looking for an opportunity to be involved in the school ministry through your volunteer time, there are two areas of special need – the library and hot lunch programs. Both require a regular commitment of time and are always a challenge to fill. Call the school office if you would like to help out in this way. Next month we’ll look at the last four questions of the survey. Coming This Fall We All Will Be Experiencing GodThrough . . .A 12 Part Sermon Series And . . . Sunday Morning Bible Studies Related to the Theme of the Week And . . . In-Depth Small Group Studies Offered at Different Days and Times of the Week Extending the Theme of the Week God is at work around you. Will you join Him? Over the years God has used the truths of Experiencing God to awaken believers to a radically God-centered way of life. As a result, millions have come to know God intimately, to recognize His voice, and to understand His will for their lives. God is inviting you to experience Him in an intimate love relationship through which He reveals to you His will, His ways, and His work. Through the biblical understandings assimilated through this study, God can teach you how to – know when He is speaking to you; recognize His activity around you; adjust your life to Him and His ways; identify what He wants to do through you; respond to His activity in your life. When you recognize where God is working, you can join him in what He is doing. Then you will experience God doing through you what only He can do. Those Who Have Loved Ones Serving In the MilitaryThe members of Emily Hayes’ ChristCare group would like to stay in touch with your loved ones by writing letters and sending cards. Please contact Emily Hayes, 253-5541, or Nora Horecny, 425-6419, with the address so they can begin to contact your loved one.October Is Stewardship Month - Or Is It?Once a year, the members of Our Savior (and probably many, many other congregations) participate in the Stewardship Program that sets the pace for the oncoming year in the areas of personal commitments. Why do we just make such a "big deal" during this time period? Stewardship is a daily, not annual, part of our lives. How are you doing with this thing called Stewardship?For the next 30 days, keep track of your personal stewardship practices on a daily basis. I think you will find that you do indeed daily practice the art of personal giving in many different ways. We need to look forward to being good stewards. Becoming more mindful of your good deeds will really boost your outlook on life and remove those gloomy days of despair and frustration. Did I say despair and frustration? It is normal to focus on events of your day, however for the next 30 days (and hopefully forever after that), you will come to realize just how much good every day is to you. The positives will far outweigh the negatives and your face will probably have a bit of a grin which in turn will absolutely brighten someone's day --- and the domino affect is working! Lend a helping hand, make that long overdue phone call or write that letter! Say "Good Morning" to the folks you have never met! Help a fellow employee, kiss a baby, buy someone a cup of coffee or just say THANKS! STEWARDSHIP isn't just a special day anymore --- it's an everyday happening! Peace, Larry, Stewardship '07 P.S. Don't forget to THANK GOD while you are at it -- HE IS AN EVERYDAY HAPPENING TOO! Redeemer Golf ScrambleSeptember 8, 2007 @ 8 AMShawnee Golf Course $48/per person (includes cart & green fees) All proceeds benefits the churches building fund for a new furnace. There will be Door prizes, longest drive and closet to the hole contest. For questions or additional information please contact Redeemer at 776-5945. Entertainment Book 2008Entertainment Books for 2007-2008 are available form LWML for $20 in the church office. Make your checks payable to LWML.. The Entertainment Books have discount Coupons for local restaurants, entertainment activities, services, and other discounts. Come by the church office to purchase one. These books make great gifts. Some restaurants included are Café Emilie, Shalimar, Magdalena’s, Ferd Grisanti, Bootleg Bar-B-Q, Burger King, Steak & Shake, Baskin Robbins, Graeters, Sonics, and numerous local pizza establishments just to name a few. For entertainment there are coupons for the Zoo, Holiday World, movie theaters, Frazier Historical Museum, Speed Museum, Ali Center, Puzzle Dome, Champs, Iceland, Renaissance Park, bowling, golf, and many more. If you have any questions please contact Billie Detroy.Adult Square DancingAdult couples who are interested in learning to square dance are invited to two Open Houses sponsored by the Belles ‘N’ Beaus Square Dance Club. The Open Houses will be held here in the gymnasium of Our Savior at 7 PM on Tuesday evenings September 11 and 18. Lessons will begin on September 25 and will continue through February 19.Although there is a charge for the lessons, the two Open Houses are free. Refreshments will be served. Guests will be guided through some of the basic calls by the club caller, ob Braden. Club members will also be on hand to “square-up” with you. Prior square dancing experience is not necessary. Dress is casual. Thank YouDear Christian Friends,I thank you for your prayers, cards, and phone calls following my surgery and during my recovery. All of which meant so much to me. Our Lord has great healing power through Himself and others. Shirley Atkins Women’s RetreatCamp Lakeview is offering a fantastic Women’s Retreat on October 12-14. Special guest speaker Linda Harlow will focus her session on the theme, “Woman by God’s Design”. To pamper you, the weekend includes many interesting sectionals, an optional massage, manicure, recreation, and a Saturday evening banquet. For more information, pick up a brochure, in the rack next to the church office. Come away for some spiritual renewal. Leave your worries behind and treat yourself to a weekend off! Don’t delay in sending your reservation.Canoeing for Everyone - September 8The canoe trip will be on the Elkhorn Creek near Frankfort, Kentucky. Children and adults of all ages are welcomed to join in the fun. The part of Elkhorn Creek where we will be canoeing , the water will be swift and the scenery beautiful with ledges, ripples, and small rapids– wonderful for a family float trip. The stream is known for its small bass population. You may bring your fishing pole, provided you have the a fishing license. Registration forms are located in the school office and on the bulletin board out side the church office. Completed forms and checks made payable to Our Savior Lutheran School are to be returned to the school office by September 5.This is a wonderful fall fellowship opportunity for everyone. There are only 47 spots on the coach bus. So get your reservation in early. Only paid reservations will be guaranteed a seat on the coach bus. The bus will depart from the church parking lot at 8:15 AM on September 8. and return approximately at 4 PM. If you plan to drive yourself, please allow enough driving time (approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes) to meet us there as we will not be waiting on anyone who comes late. You will need to bring the following items: Suntan lotion and a hat An old pair of sneakers (river rocks are sharp) A picnic lunch, drinking water, or drinks (no glass bottles) Trash bag Insect spray Change of clothes for the ride home The cost of the coach and canoe rental is $30/person Children under 80 pounds may ride between 2 paying adults for a $10 fee but canoes only have seats in the front and the back. Divorce Support GroupDivorce hurts. Someone you may know who is going through a divorce is hurting.It is hard to know how to help someone who is going through a divorce. It takes a long time and a lot of work to heal the pain that comes with the breakup of a marriage. DivorceCare is a special weekly seminar and support group for people who are separated or divorced. If you know someone going through a divorce, make sure he or she knows about DivorceCare. It might just be the best thing you could do to help. DivorceCare meets on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8 PM, has begun to meet at Grace Lutheran Church, 1787 Klerner Lane, in New Albany. For more information and schedule call Kristi at 502-303-3500. Missional Planning and Childcare Project Team UpdateThe Architectural Evaluation of our current campus has been completed. It has been determined that we do not have sufficient land to add an Open Arms Childcare on the property. This does not mean that we cannot make some additions to the existing buildings in the future, but no large expansion is possible.We have dropped Church Development Partners as a potential source of help for us at this time, since they are unable to take on any new projects. We have identified other resources to help when needed. A first pass at a proposed Business Plan to operate an Open Arms Childcare Center on Ford Daycare property (now closed) has been completed by Open Arms using data we supplied them. The proposed plan indicates that operating an Open Arms Childcare center at this site could be self sustaining for operating costs as well as support a full time pastor and pay for the mortgage. The proposed plan is being reiterated by Mike Chinberg using actual tuition rates in the area and local wage scales to get a more realistic picture of what is possible. The proposed plan can be easily modified and adapted to any other site that we may consider. Larry Jung the Indiana District LCEF VP visited us on July 17th, and met jointly with the Missional Planning Committee and Childcare Project Teams. He toured 3 potential Childcare sites (including the Ford property). He told us that the Ford property was his first choice, but that the other sites could also work. We reviewed the proposed Business Plan with him. He said if the business plan was backed up by a Market Study, the LCEF would loan us the money to purchase the property and cover startup costs. He asked the question of the group “Is there a congregation consensus that agrees on the idea of starting a new worshipping community using the Open Arms approach”? Discussion followed and the group agreed that it didn’t really know if there was a major consensus of the congregation that supports Childcare, or if the majority is waiting to be led and sold on the idea. Larry recommended that before we proceed further, the congregation should first participate in the Strategic Ministry Planning (SMP) process to determine God’s Will in carrying out the Great Commission. The SMP process is facilitated by the LCEF and helps individual churches to arrive at a consensus on what God’s Will is for the future direction of their ministry. The two committees unanimously agreed that Our Savior should participate in the SMP process and also recommended to the Church Council that the congregation participate. The August Church Council Meeting unanimously approved for Our Savior to participate in the Strategic Ministry Planning (SMP) process. A separate letter is being mailed to all members explaining this decision and the Strategic Ministry Planning process. The Indiana District will pay one half the cost of the SMP process. The proposed time schedule will tie-in with, and complement “Experiencing God”. In view of the decision to participate in SMP process the joint committees decided that no decision on potential childcare sites will be made and that no funds will be spent until after the SMP process is completed. However, the committees decided that with all the work that has already been done in investigating the Ford property that we should complete the initial investigation and determine whether or not it is a good potential site. The feeling of the committees is--if the Lord really wants Our Savior to utilize this site, He will make it available to us in the future. On August 16, 2007, a group of Missional Planning and Childcare Team members and others toured the property. Also joining the group will be the Indiana District Architectural Advisor, Don Amt and Lisa Dickey an experienced Childcare Director from Oswego, IL. These two individuals will give us their professional advice on the suitability of the property for an Open Arms Childcare Center and a new worshipping community. A report on the suitability of the property will be written and saved for future reference. Work on developing the Missional Plan has been suspended until the Strategic Ministry Planning process has been completed. Norm Kendt |