WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Afternoon!

 

It is really hard to imagine this will be your last "What's Happening" report for the year of 2011, and that we are drawing our 50^th Anniversary year to a close as well.  This has been quite an eventful year for us as a church family.  Praise God for the many ways He has blessed us on our journeys!

 

We will have the Rod and Staff newsletter ready for you after the Budget Forum on January 8, so that we can include a report for you on the Forum.  In the meantime, here's a report of "What's Happening" at Good Shepherd in the next few weeks. . . .

 

1.       Fri. Dec. 30-Youth Lock-In begins at 7pm.  Contact Debbie Suchomel for details

 

2.       Fri. Dec. 30-Friday Night Bible Study at 7pm at the home of Sheri Valentis

 

3.       Sat. Dec. 31-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53).  Contact Kim Hanahan if you can lend a hand.

 

4.       Sun. Jan. 1, 2012-New Year's Day Worship at 10:30am

 

5.       Mon. Jan. 2-Monday Study at the Suchomel home beginning at 7pm (see note below)

 

6.       Tues. Jan. 3-Shepherd's Food Pantry is open from 6:30 to 8pm at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53)

 

7.       Wed. Jan. 4-Wednesday Study meets at 6:30pm (see note below)

 

8.       Thur. Jan. 5-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Bible Study meets at Stoughton's beginning at 7pm

 

9.       Fri. Jan. 6-Friday Bible Study meets at 7pm at Sheri Valentis' home

 

10.   Sun. Jan. 8-Worship at 9:30am followed by a Budget Forum Meeting.  The Praise Band will practice following the Budget Forum.

 

11.   Mon. Jan. 9-Monday Study at Suchomel's begins at 7pm

 

12.    Tues. Jan. 10-Ministry Teams Meeting Night at 7pm at the church

 

13.   Wed. Jan. 11-Wednesday Bible Study at 6:30pm at church

 

14.   Thur. Jan. 12-FLY (Finally Loving Yourself) Lady meets at 7pm at Lydia Faber's home

 

15.   Fri. Jan. 13-Friday Bible Study at 7pm at the home of Sheri Valentis

 

16.   Sat. Jan. 14-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt.53).  Please contact Kim Hanahan if you can help out.

 

17.   Sun. Jan. 15-The 50^th Anniversary "Final Fling" worship will be held at 9:30am at the Rec Center, with a catered luncheon following worship.  Sign up now so we know how many to plan for!

 

Monday and Wednesday Studies:

The groups will finish the study of the book, "The Uncluttered Heart" on Monday, January 2 at 7pm at the Suchomel's home, and/or on Wednesday, January 4 at 6:30pm at the church. 

 

The 50th Anniversary Team has sent invitations to the January 15^th "Final Fling" to wrap up our 50^th anniversary year celebration.  All are welcome to attend the worship service in the Drdak Room at the Rec Center at 9:30am and followed by a free-will donation catered luncheon.  Rev. Roy Moore, the founding pastor of Good Shepherd, will be our special guest.  Mark your calendars now, sign-up and be there as we celebrate this milestone event for our church!

 

The 50^th Anniversary Team continues to look for photos from any of our events to be placed on a display board for the January 15^th "Final Fling".  If you have any pictures that you are willing to share, please let one of the team members know.  Also, if you would like your pics returned after the event, the team will be glad to do so. 

 

"Radical" Book Study Group

Pastor Suzanne will be hosting a book study group based on the book, Radical, by David Platt.  Times/dates/meeting place for the group will be determined once our group is established.  Pastor is also hoping to offer an online group discussion of the book and possibly adding Skype so those who are not able to be with us in person can also join the group.  If you are interested in joining Pastor Suzanne for this group, please sign up at the Information Table and she will be in touch with you.  It is our hope to begin the study by the beginning of February.  Cost for the book will be $10.

 

Budget Meeting

The Council will be hosting a Budget meeting next Sunday, January 8, immediately following our 9:30a service (the only service for the day).  The purpose of the meeting is to answer questions, gather ideas and suggestions, and go over the proposed 2012 budget.  It is our hope that by doing this we can focus our January 29 Annual Congregational Meeting on the ministries of the church.  Hopefully you have already received a mailing regarding this meeting.  If not, please contact one of our Council members:  Sue Hattimer, Camille Garcia, Debbie Suchomel, or Judy Jordan.

 

Recap from last Sunday:  Last Sunday, on Christmas morning, we had the opportunity to come together, singing Christmas carols, hearing God's Word and gathering around the table for Holy Communion.  We also had the chance to make Miss Jean's day by singing one of her favorite Christmas carols via phone, as she wasn't able to make it in person.  It was a day of great celebration and joy as we remembered Jesus' birth!

 

Preview of this Sunday:  This Sunday, on New Year's Day, we'll again gather to celebrate and sing praise to God.  We'll hear God's Word and gather at the table for Holy Communion.  We'll think about what we are expecting in the coming year and how God is ever-present in our lives.  Join us!

 

Thank you to those who have sent in their newsletter information for the January edition.  To those of you who haven't submitted their report yet, we'd appreciate getting it early next week. 

 

I'm wishing you all of the Advent blessings of hope, peace, joy, and love always.  Happy New Year!

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good morning!

 

There's a kind of hush around church today, but with an undercurrent of excitement as we prepare to celebrate the miracle of Jesus birth.  All of our Advent candles have been lit and we've talked about peace, joy, hope and love in our hearts and sharing these virtues with others in our lives as God planned.  Also the three wise men are on the move and making their way back toward Good Shepherd for the birth of Jesus.  They started their journeys from Glendale Heights, Downers Grove and Yorkville and are approaching Romeoville.  Be on the lookout for them or check our Facebook page for their progress.

 

Here's a report of "What's Happening" at Good Shepherd in the next few weeks. . . .

 

1.       Fri. Dec. 23-Friday Night Bible Study at 7pm at Sheri Valentis' home

 

2.       Sat. Dec. 24-Christmas Eve Worship Services will take place a 4pm for families and a candlelight service at 11pm

 

3.       Sun. Dec. 25-Christmas Worship will take place at 10:30am.

 

4.       Thur. Dec. 29-Deadline for January Rod & Staff newsletter articles from our ministry teams

 

5.       Fri. Dec. 30-Youth Lock-In begins at 7pm.  See Debbie Suchomel for details

 

6.       Fri. Dec. 30-Friday Night Bible Study at 7pm at the home of Sheri Valentis

 

7.       Sat. Dec. 31-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53).  Contact Kim Hanahan if you can lend a hand.

 

8.       Sun. Jan. 1, 2012-New Year's Day Worship at 10:30am

 

9.       Mon. Jan. 2-Monday Study at the Suchomel home beginning at 7pm

 

10.   Tues. Jan. 3-Shepherd's Food Pantry is open from 6:30 to 8pm at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53)

 

11.   Sun. Jan. 8-Worship at 9:30am followed by a Budget Forum Meeting.  The Praise Band will practice following the Budget Forum. 

 

PERSONAL CARE KITS FOR LWR collection date has been extended to the end of February.  This will give everyone interested in providing the basic personal care supplies a chance to gather them.  The list was in December's Rod and Staff newsletter, and is also available on the back table at church.  You would be surprised by how appreciated these basic items are to those served by Lutheran World Relief.  If you have any questions on how you can help, please contact Lydia Faber, Pat Hurdle, or call the church office. 

 

The 50th Anniversary Team has sent out invitations to the January 15^th "Final Fling" to wrap up our 50^th anniversary year celebration, which will be held in the Drdak Room at the Rec Center at 9:30am and followed by a free-will donation catered luncheon.  Rev. Roy Moore, the founding pastor of Good Shepherd, will be our special guest.  Mark your calendars now, sign-up and be there as we celebrate this milestone event for our church!

 

The 50^th Anniversary Team is still looking for photos from any of our events to be placed on a display board for the January 15^th "Final Fling".  If you have any pictures that you are willing to share, please let one of the team members know.  Also, if you would like your pics returned after the event, the team will be glad to do so. 

 

"Learning" Opportunity - Be "Radical"

Pastor Suzanne is going to host a small group that will be studying the book, "Radical Together."  Here's a brief description of the book, "In Radical, David Platt's plea for Christians to take back their faith from the American Dream resonated with readers everywhere, and the book quickly became a New York Times bestseller. Now in Radical Together, the author broadens his call, challenging us to unite around a gospel-centered vision.  How, he asks, might such a vision reshape our priorities as the body of Christ? How might well-intentioned Christians actually prevent God's people from accomplishing God's purpose? And, how can we best unleash the people of God in the church to carry out the purpose of God in the world?  Writing to everyone who desires to make an impact for God's glory—whether you are an involved member, a leader, or a pastor—Dr. Platt shares six foundational ideas that fuel radical obedience among Christians in the church. With compelling Bible teaching and inspiring stories from around the world, he will help you apply the revolutionary claims and commands of Christ to your community of faith in fresh, practical ways."

 

If you are interested in moving your faith forward and becoming more "radical" for God, join us for this special short-term small group study.  We will be offering opportunities to discuss the book online, as well as in person (times/dates to be determined).  If you are interested, please sign up at church so we know how many books to order.  They will cost $10 each.

 

Monday and Wednesday Studies:

The groups will finish the study of the book, "The Uncluttered Heart" on Monday, January 2 at 7pm at the Suchomel's home, and/or on Wednesday, January 4 at 6:30pm at the church.  Neither group will be meeting next week.

 

Recap from last Sunday:  Last Sunday, as we lit our fourth candle on the Advent wreath, the candle that represents love, Pastor Suzanne reminded us that, like hope, peace, and joy, in order to experience love outside of ourselves, we need to experience it within us.  Then, instead of Pastor preaching to us, she invited us to "preach" to each other.  And, boy, did you all preach!  Thank you to everyone who shared their testimonies about what love is, how you've experienced God's love, and/or how important sharing God's love is.  If you missed last week's services, we hope you'll ask your brothers and sisters about what you missed.

 

Preview of this Sunday:  This Sunday, we'll celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ with the singing of Christmas carols, readings and Holy Communion.  Join us for our one service at 10:30am as we focus on what the day is all about - Immanuel, God with us!

 

I'm wishing you all of the Advent blessings of hope, peace, joy, and love always.

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good morning!

 

 Isn't it hard to believe that 2011 is almost gone?  We will be sending a letter out shortly regarding a meeting on January 8 following worship to discuss the 2012 budget. 

 

Here's a report of "What's Happening" at Good Shepherd in the next few weeks. . . .

 

1.       TONIGHT-Thur. Dec. 15-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Bible Study at the Stoughton's

 

2.       Fri. Dec. 16-Friday Bible Study at 7pm at Sheri Valintis' home.  Parents are welcome to bring their children.

 

3.       Sat. Dec. 17-Church Council will be meeting at 8:30am

 

4.       Sun. Dec. 18-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am.

 

5.       Sun. Dec. 18-Sunday School for age 3 through 5^th grade will meet at 9:15am.

 

6.       Mon. Dec. 19-Monday Advent Study at 7pm at the Suchomel home.

 

7.       Mon. Dec. 19-3^rd Monday Study meets at 7pm at the Sanchez' home.

 

8.       Wed. Dec. 21-Wednesday Advent Study at 6:30pm

 

9.       Wed. Dec. 21-Advent Worship at 8pm

 

10.   Fri. Dec. 23-Friday Night Bible Study at 7pm at Sheri Valentis' home

 

11.   Sat. Dec. 24-Christmas Eve Worship Services will take place a 4pm for families and a candlelight service at 11pm

 

12.   Sun. Dec. 25-Christmas Worship will take place at 10:30am.

 

13.   Mon. Dec. 26-Monday Study at the Suchomel's begins at 7pm

 

14.   Fri. Dec. 30-Youth Lock-In begins at 7pm.  See Debbie Suchomel for details

 

15.   Fri. Dec. 30-Friday Night Bible Study at 7pm at the home of Sheri Valentis

 

16.   Sat. Dec. 31-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53).  Contact Kim Hanahan if you can lend a hand.

 

17.   Sun. Jan. 1, 2012-New Year's Day Worship at 10:30am

 

PERSONAL CARE KITS FOR LWR collection date has been extended to the end of February.  This will give everyone interested in providing the basic personal care supplies a chance to gather them.  The list was in December's Rod and Staff newsletter, and is also available on the back table at church.  You would be surprised by how appreciated these basic items are to those served by Lutheran World Relief.  If you have any questions on how you can help, please contact Lydia Faber, Pat Hurdle, or call the church office. 

 

Have you checked our display board with various holiday help pleas from several local organizations?  These will provide you with an opportunity to extend assistance in many ways, large and small, that are guaranteed to warm a lot of hearts (including your own).   Isn't that what the season is all about??

 

The 50th Anniversary Team will be passing out invitations to the January 15^th "Final Fling" at church this Sunday.  The team is also looking for photos from any of our events to be placed on a display board for the January 15^th "Final Fling".  If you have any pictures that you are willing to share, please let one of the team members know.  Also, if you would like your pics returned after the event, the team will be glad to do so.  Remember to get your invitation at church this Sunday and mark your calendar now for our "Final Fling" on Sunday, January 15^th at 9:30am at the Rec Center.  Thanks!

 

WISE MEN ON THE MOVE!  Find out how they can come and visit your home as they make their way back toward Good Shepherd for the birth of Jesus.  Chris Daniels can give you more information.

 

Our friends at United Presbyterian Church, who jointly sponsor Shepherd's Food Pantry, are holding a "Breakfast With Santa" this Saturday, Dec. 17 from 9 to 11:30am.  Their all you can eat menu includes sausages, pancakes, fruit, juice, coffee, tea and toppings for the cost of $3.00 for children to age 11 and adults $5.00.  In addition, for $2.00 you can get a picture with Santa!

 

Recap from last Sunday:  Last Sunday we lit our 3^rd candle of Advent, the candle of Joy.  Pastor talked to us about the importance of having joy in our hearts and how true joy comes from knowing Jesus Christ.  She challenged us to be" joy-sharers", not "joy –suckers", by sharing the joy with others.

 

Preview of this Sunday:  This Sunday we will light the 4^th and final candle of Advent, the candle of love.  Join us as we hear about Gods love for us and all people.

 

Have a warm, wonderful week and remember the real reason for the season!  I'm wishing you all of the Advent blessings of hope, peace, joy, and love always.

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Morning (now turned Afternoon)!

 

I hope this finds you all warm, comfortable and looking forward to celebrating the excitement of Jesus birth.  Here's a report of "What's Happening" at Good Shepherd in the next few weeks. . . .

 

1.       TONIGHT-Thur. Dec. 8-FLY (Finally Loving Yourself) Ladies will meet at 7pm at Lydia Faber's home.

 

2.       Fri. Dec. 9-Friday Bible Study meets at 7pm at the home of Sheri Valintis.

 

3.       Sat. Dec. 10-Shepherd's Pantry will be open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (At Rt. 53)

 

4.       Sun. Dec. 11-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am.  (NOTE:  The Praise Band will not rehearse today.)

 

5.       Mon. Dec. 12-Monday Advent Study at Suchomel's beginning at 7pm.

 

6.       Tues. Dec. 13-Ministry Teams Meeting Night at 7pm.  We would like all ministry teams to be represented as we will be continuing the discussion we started last month.

 

7.       Wed. Dec. 14-Wednesday Advent Study at 6:30pm.

 

8.       Wed. Dec. 14-Advent Worship at 8pm

 

9.       Thur. Dec. 15-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Bible Study at the Stoughton's

 

10.   Fri. Dec. 16-Friday Bible Study at 7pm at Sheri Valintis' home.  Parents are welcome to bring their children.

 

11.   Sat. Dec. 17-Church Council will be meeting at 8:30am

 

12.   Sun. Dec. 18-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am.

 

13.   Sun. Dec. 18-Sunday School for age 3 through 5^th grade will meet at 9:15am.

 

14.   Mon. Dec. 19-Monday Advent Study at 7pm at the Suchomel home.

 

15.   Mon. Dec. 19-3^rd Monday Study meets at 7pm at the Sanchez' home.

 

16.   Wed. Dec. 21-Wednesday Advent Study at 6:30pm

 

17.   Wed. Dec. 21-Advent Worship at 8pm

 

18.   Fri. Dec. 23-Friday Night Bible Study at 7pm at Sheri Valentis' home

 

19.   Sat. Dec. 24-Christmas Eve Worship Services will take place a 4pm for families and a candlelight service at 11pm

 

20.   Sun. Dec. 25-Christmas Worship will take place at 10:30am.

 

Be sure to check our display board with various holiday help pleas from several local organizations which will provide you with an opportunity to extend assistance in many ways, large and small, that are guaranteed to warm a lot of hearts (including your own).   Isn't that what the season is all about??

 

We still have a FREE HP printer/copier/scanner available to anyone who needs it.  Call the church office (815-886-4354) if you are interested.

 

The 50th Anniversary Team is looking for photos from any of our events to be placed on a display board for the January 15^th "Final Fling".  If you have any pictures that you are willing to share, please let one of the team members know.  Also, if you would like your pics returned after the event, the team will be glad to do so.  Also, remember to mark your calendar now for our anniversary "Final Fling" on Sunday, January 15^th at 9:30am at the Rec Center.  Thanks!

 

Recap from last Sunday:  As we continued our Advent journeys, we lit the second candle on our Advent "wreath," the candle of peace.  We talked about what it means to have peace in our lives - on an individual and a global level.  We talked about what the absence of peace looks like - chaos, turmoil, conflict, etc.  And, we listed what we think of when we think about peace - comfort, tranquility, calm, etc.  We talked about how moving from chaos to tranquility takes work.  And we talked about how peace really starts from within.  How peaceful is your life?  What are you doing to make it more so?

 

Preview of this Sunday:  This Sunday, we'll continue our Advent journey by lighting the candle of Joy.  We'll think about how we can experience more joy in our lives and how we can carry that joy of this season into the lives of others around us, particularly those who find this season difficult.  Come join us as we joyfully gather in Jesus' name.

 

Our moveable wall panels arrived yesterday!   Come see what a difference they make to our worship area!  Have a warm, wonderful week and remember the real reason for the season!  I'm wishing you all of the Advent blessings of hope, peace, joy, and love always.

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Hello and Happy December!

 

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and counted the many blessings we tend to take for granted in our daily lives.  The Rod and Staff newsletter was mailed on Monday, so this will once again be an abbreviated version of "What's Happening" at Good Shepherd in the next few weeks. . . .

 

1.       TONIGHT-Thur. Dec. 1-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Bible Study at the Stoughton's begins at 7pm.

 

2.       Fri. Dec. 2-Friday Bible Study meets at 7pm.  Parents are welcome to bring their children.

 

3.       Sat. Dec. 3-Baby Shower at 2pm

 

4.       Sun. Dec. 4-"Bread of the World" Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am

 

5.       Sun. Dec. 4-Sunday School at 9:15am for age 3 to 5^th grade.

 

6.       Sun. Dec. 4-Youth Laser Tag event will be held following the 10am worship.  Contact Debbie Suchomel for details.

 

7.       Mon. Dec. 5-Monday Advent Bible Study at 7pm at Suchomel's

 

8.       Tue. Dec. 6-Shepherd's Pantry, 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53) will be open from 6:30 to 8pm

 

9.       Wed. Dec 7-Wednesday Advent Bible Study at 6:30pm

 

10.   Wed. Dec. 7-Advent Worship Service at 8pm

 

11.   Thur. Dec. 8-FLY (Finally Loving Yourself) Ladies will meet at 7pm at Lydia Faber's home.

 

12.   Fri. Dec. 9-Friday Bible Study meets at 7pm.

 

13.   Sat. Dec. 10-Shepherd's Pantry will be open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (At Rt. 53)

 

14.   Sun. Dec. 11-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am.  Praise Band rehearsal will follow the last service.

 

Budget Forum:

The Council would like to thank those who attended the Budget Forum this past Tuesday.  We appreciate your input - your questions, ideas, etc.  We would like to ask everyone to put January 8 on your calendar and make it a priority to be at our next Budget Forum.  It will be immediately following our one service on that day.  This forum will be an opportunity to see the proposed 2012 budget, to ask questions, to give input, etc.  It is the goal of the Council to have all questions answered and discussed at this meeting so that our Annual Meeting on January 29 can be focused on lifting up our ministries and the mission of our church.  Please do your best to be at the meeting on January 8.  ALL are welcome!

 

"Journey with Jesus" - Midweek Advent Services

We hope you'll join us for our midweek Advent services.  They take place on Wednesdays at 8pm.  Our theme this year is "Journey with Jesus."  Last night, we heard from Jesus' mother, Mary.  Next week, we'll hear from his earthly father, Joseph.  Come, take time out of the busyness of this season to refresh your spirit and reconnect with the meaning of the season.  Join us as together we journey with Jesus.

 

Check out our display of holiday help pleas from various organizations which will provide you with an opportunity to extend assistance in many ways, large and small, that are guaranteed to warm a lot of hearts (including your own).   Isn't that what the season is all about??

 

Do you need a printer?  One of our members is giving away a HP printer/copier/scanner to anyone who needs it.  Call the church office (815-886-4354) if you are interested.

 

The 50th Anniversary Team is looking for photos from any of our events to be placed on a display board for the January 15^th "Final Fling".  If you have any pictures that you are willing to share, please let one of the  team members know.  Also, if you would like your pics returned after the event, the team will be glad to do so.  Thanks!

 

Recap from last Sunday:  We began the season of Advent with the lighting of our Advent wreath.  The candle of hope was the first candle lit.  Pastor Suzanne shared the beginning of Jesus' New Testament story through the reading of the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 1.  She also talked to us about the importance of hope, especially in our world today.  How are you connecting your faith story with having hope?

 

Preview for this Sunday:  As we continue our Advent journey, we'll light the second Advent candle - of peace.  Pastor Suzanne will share readings from Mark, 2 Peter, and Isaiah.  We'll see how the prophet of old and Jesus' disciple connect and still are relevant to us today.  We'll think about what it means to be a messenger preparing the way for Jesus' coming.

 

Please call church (815-886-4354) to let us know if you didn't get your Rod and Staff newsletter, or if we need to correct your address in our records.  Have a warm, wonderful week and remember the real reason for the season! 

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Afternoon!

 

 It's good to be back in the office, though it is hard to believe I just got back two days ago!!  We have been really busy getting the Rod and Staff newsletter together and hope to have it for you in church this Sunday.  With that in mind, this will be an abbreviated version of "What's Happening" at Good Shepherd in the next few weeks. . . .

 

1.       TONIGHT-Wed. Nov. 23-Thanksgiving Eve Worship at 7:30pm followed by a pie fellowship time.  Bring your favorite pie (or dessert) to share and join us.  All are welcome!

 

2.       Thur. Nov. 24-Happy Thanksgiving to all!  Be sure to thank God for all the blessings which many of us take for granted.

 

3.       Sat. Nov. 26- Shepherd's Pantry is open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53).  Volunteers are welcome as well!

 

4.       Sun. Nov. 27-Stewardship Sunday Worship at 9:30am followed by a catered luncheon.  Tree decoration at the Rec Center follows the luncheon.

 

5.       Mon. Nov. 28-Monday Study at the Suchomel home begins at 7pm

 

6.       Tues. Nov. 29-Open Forum Budget Meeting from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the church.

 

7.       Wed. Nov. 30-Wednesday Bible Study meets at 6:30pm.

 

8.       Wed. Nov. 30-Advent Worship Service at 8pm.

 

9.       Thur. Dec. 1-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Bible Study at the Stoughton's begins at 7pm.

 

10.   Fri. Dec. 2-Friday Bible Study meets at 7pm.  Parents are welcome to bring their children.

 

11.   Sat. Dec. 3-Baby Shower at 2pm

 

12.   Sun. Dec. 4-"Bread of the World" Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am

 

Our Evangelism Team has arranged to sponsor a Christmas tree at the Rec Center and we plan to decorate it in gold to commemorate Good Shepherd's 50^th Anniversary.  Would you like to help?  Contact Chris Daniels.  The decorating is to happen this weekend.

 

Check out our display of holiday help pleas from various organizations which will provide you with an opportunity to extend assistance in many ways, large and small, that are guaranteed to warm a lot of hearts (including your own).   Isn't that what the season is all about??

 

Advent Study books:  Pastor Suzanne has received the Advent Study books.  If you are participating in the Monday or Wednesday group for this 4-week study, please get a book from her ASAP.  We need to read week one BEFORE our first group sessions meet next week.  Thanks!

 

Recap from last Sunday:  Our theme was "giving is proportionate."  Reading from 2 Corinthians 8, as well as the story of the widow's mite from Luke 21, we were reminded that it is the quality of the gift and the giver that is important to God versus the quantity.   Paul tells us that God wants us to give what we have, not what we don't have.  Pastor Suzanne encouraged us to take the example of the the Macedonian believers who "first dedicates themselves to the Lord."  Before we decide on our faith commitments for 2012, she encouraged us to dedicate ourselves to God and seek His guidance on what He is calling us to give.

 

Preview for this Sunday:  As we come together to "Celebrate Generosity" we'll think about how the resources we have can and are used for the glory of God's Kingdom and how we can all make a difference in the world through the blessings we have received - no matter how large or small.

 

Hope to see you tonight for the Thanksgiving Worship and pie fellowship afterward.  This is a wonderful, heartwarming way to, as a church family, give our thanks for all the blessings we enjoy, and also to share stories and family traditions of Thanksgivings gone by!  I'm wishing for you all the blessings of peace, hope, faith, joy, health and love.

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

A word from our Celebrate Generosity Prayer Chair, Laura

Greetings Good Shepherd Family,

 I continue to pray for our "Celebrate Generosity" campaign and hope you have been doing the same.  For the majority of you, the first you heard of the campaign was in my letter or maybe it was today when John spoke at Church.  I find myself wondering if any of you are feeling a bit weary or perhaps you may even be struggling a little bit right now.  You want to be the hands and feet but you don't feel you have enough of anything to even sustain you. You don't have enough energy, enough time, enough patience or enough money.  I would not be speaking the truth if I were to tell you that I have not been struggling myself.  This past week, I found myself emotionally and physically exhausted. 

 

I was reminded that Jesus is forever faithful.  "Come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest" (Matthew: 11:28).  I went to Friday night Bible study and I found my rest.  There were fellow believers ready with hugs, listening ears and encouraging words and prayers.  I realized there are times when we are there to help lift the spirits of others and there are times when we simply feel like all we want to do is rest in the arms of someone who truly cares.  Yes, Jesus truly cares.  He always has and always will and that is why He has given us each other.  I need my Good Shepherd Family!   

 

Often we talk about the ministry we do for others outside of our Church.  Today, I give thanks for the ministering we do within our own Church Family. Heavenly Father, I give thanks to you for giving us the opportunity to be a blessing to each other.  I give thanks that when one or more of us are weak, you give others the strength to help lighten our load and lift our spirits.  

 

Dear friends, may you always know the blessing we have in worshiping in a place where you can truly come as you are.  May you always find open arms to hold you when you need them and when you find yourself well rested and healed, may you offer your open arms to someone else.  Above all, may you always know that the ultimate healer truly is Jesus.  He sustains us and knows us inside and out. He provides us with all that we need. Take some time to rest in His presence. 

 

Peace and Love,

 

Laura Voruz

--
Renea Horn Johnson
Pastoral Assistant
Good Shepherd Church

Fwd: Giving is an act of worship...something to ponder

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Suzanne Hurdle <revhurdle@sbcglobal.net>
Date: Thu, Nov 10, 2011 at 8:15 PM
Subject: Giving is an act of worship...something to ponder
To: Renea Horn <revassistant@gmail.com>

Renea,
Please forward this email to the congregation.  Thanks.



People often ask me, "What is Stewardship?  What does it mean?"  The best definition I've heard is this one:

"Stewardship is ...
     all that we do
     with all that we are
     and all that we have
     after we say 'I believe.'"

Last Sunday, John Ploense, our Stewardship Team Chair, told us that "giving is an act of worship."  During our "Cultivating Fruitfulness" journey,  we talked about what "passionate worship" looks like.  To me, seeing someone give an offering to God is passionate worship.  Seeing someone make that connection between their faith and their finances is what stewardship, worship, and our spiritual journeys are all about.

When you think about giving a gift, an offering, to the church, do you consider it an "act of worship?"

Something to ponder...

 

Peace.

Pastor Suzanne Anderson-Hurdle

office - 815-886-4354

cell - 815-355-2397

 

--
Renea Horn Johnson
Pastoral Assistant
Good Shepherd Church

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Afternoon!

 

 I've been really busy trying to complete tasks here in the office since I will be out of town all next week.  Therefore, the next What's Happening report will be sent to you on Thanksgiving Eve, November 23.   Here is a report of "What's Happening" at Good Shepherd in the next few weeks. . . .

 

1.       TONIGHT-Thur. Nov. 10- FLY Lady (Finally Loving Yourself) meets at 7pm at the home of Lydia Faber.  All ladies are invited to come and bring a friend as well for this fun, uplifting evening.

 

2.       Fri. Nov. 11-Friday Bible Study meets at 7pm at the home of Sheri Valintis.  All are welcome.  Parents, bring your children too.

 

3.       Sat. Nov. 12 Shepherd's Pantry is open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53).  Volunteers are welcome as well!

 

4.       Sat. Nov. 12-'Tweeners (age 21 to 99) Wine Tasting will be at the home of Ronn and Tim Young-Black beginning at 6pm.  Bring a reasonably priced bottle of your favorite wine (no more than $20) and a dish to share for this fellowship event.

 

5.       Sun. Nov. 13 Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am with Connection Café between services.  The Praise Band will rehearse following the 10am worship.

 

6.       Mon. Nov. 14 Monday Night Bible Study meets at Suchomel's beginning at 7pm

 

7.       Wed. Nov. 16 Wednesday Bible Study at 6:30pm. 

 

8.       Wed. Nov 16-Special Monthly Evening Worship at 8pm.

 

9.       Thur. Nov. 17-Preschool Annual Thankful Dinner will be from 6:30 to 8pm at the Preschool.  All are welcome to participate and are asked to bring a dish to share and a can of food for the food pantry.  Also, please call the Preschool (815-886-4356) to let them know you will be attending so they can have enough seating.  (NOTE:  G2R will not be meeting tonight.)

 

10.   Fri. Nov. 18-Harvest Saturday set-up at 6pm.  Contact Kim Hanahan if you can help!

 

11.   Fri. Nov. 18-Friday Bible Study meets at 7pm at the home of Sheri Valintis.  All are welcome.  Parents, bring your children too.

 

12.   Sat. Nov. 19-Church Council Meeting at 8am

 

13.   Sat. Nov. 19-Harvest Saturday volunteers to assemble at 10:30am in St. Andrew's parking lot.

 

14.   Sun. Nov. 20-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am.  Sunday School for age 3 to 5^th grade at 9:15am.

 

15.   Sun. Nov. 20-Youth (6^th grade through high school ages) is going to play laser tag!  Be sure to sign up ahead of time.  Contact Debbie Suchomel for details.

 

16.   Mon. Nov. 21-Monday Study meets at Suchomel's at 7pm.  3^rd Monday Study meets at the Sanchez home beginning at 7pm.  (Double Monday Study Night!!)

 

17.   Tues. Nov. 22-Stewardship Leadership Dinner

 

18.   Wed. Nov. 23-Thanksgiving Eve Worship at 7:30pm followed by a pie fellowship time.  Bring your favorite pie (or dessert) to share and join us.  All are welcome!

 

19.   Thur. Nov. 24-Happy Thanksgiving to all!  Be sure to thank God for all the blessings which many of us take for granted.

 

20.   Sat. Nov. 26- Shepherd's Pantry is open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53).  Volunteers are welcome as well!

 

21.   Sun. Nov. 27-Stewardship Sunday Worship at 9:30am followed by a catered luncheon.

 

"Busy Bags" for kids

Chris Daniels and Pastor Suzanne are working on putting together "busy bags" for our little ones in worship services.  Because the preschool toys, books, etc. have to be off-limits to the kids due to DCFS rules, we thought it would be nice to have something for the kids to play with, read, color, etc. during church.  So, we're looking for a few gently-used toys, books, coloring books and crayons for children under age 10.  If you have something to donate, please bring it to church on Sunday.  We'll have a box or bin for you to drop them in.  Thanks!

 

The Preschool Thankful Dinner is planned for November 17^th from 6:30 to 8pm.  All are welcome to attend this annual event where silverware, plates, cups, drinks, meat and entertainment are provided by the Preschool.  Those attending are asked to bring a dish to pass as well as a non-perishable food donation for Shepherd's Pantry.  If you plan to attend, please call the Preschool (815-886-4356) so we can make sure to have enough seating and food available. 

 

Do you have any extra tables to lend the Preschool for their Thankful Dinner?  Please call the Preschool (815-886-4356) as soon as possible to make arrangements.  Thanks!

 

Our Evangelism Team has arranged to sponsor a Christmas tree at the Rec Center and plans are underway to decorate it in gold to commemorate Good Shepherd's 50^th Anniversary.  Would you like to help?  Contact Chris Daniels.  The decorating is to happen on the weekend following Thanksgiving.

 

Watch for a display of holiday help pleas from various organizations which will provide you with opportunities to extend assistance in many ways, large and small, that are guaranteed to warm a lot of hearts (including your own).   Isn't that what the season is all about??

 

Monthly Midweek Special Service-The Worship Team will host another midweek special service next Wednesday, November 16 at 8pm.  Join us at church for a time of quiet reflection, prayer, and communion, as we recharge our spirits.  All are welcome!  These services last no longer than 45 minutes.

 

Recap of last Sunday:  We had the pleasure of having former pastor, Rev. John Schumacher, be our guest preacher for the day as we continued our 50th Anniversary celebration.  Pastor Schumacher talked about several things including the "thin places," which he described as the places between the sacred and the secular - times like Thanksgiving and Christmas invite us into these thin places.  He also described how we, as Lutherans, look at saints in four different ways: biblical - St. Paul, for example; historical - St. Francis, Luther, etc.; those baptized people of God who now rest in God; and the baptized people of God - you and I - called to the mission of proclaiming the Gospel.  Pastor Schumacher talked about how he learned to tithe from his internship pastor and how he and his wife, Judy, moved from thinking about Sunday as the last day of the week, when they gave their leftovers to thinking about Sunday as the first day of the week and giving God the first of what they have.  Finally, he invited us to answer two questions, related to the Gospel reading from Matthew 25:  1) How do we prioritize our resources for mission; 2) How do we ensure that we have the resources we need to carry out the mission God has given us?  God has give us the "oil" (see Matthew 25), now, what will we do with it?  If you missed his message, it was recorded.  Let us know if you'd like a copy.

 

Preview of this Sunday:  As we continue our theme of "Celebrate Generosity," we'll talk about how giving is systematic and how giving regularly, or systematically, is good for us and good for the church.  We'll talk about what a tithe is and what the Bible has to say about tithing.  We'll think about how our giving is deeply connected to our spiritual journeys.  We hope you'll join us!

 

Looking ahead to Advent:

Since you won't be receiving the next What's Happening until Thanksgiving Eve, we wanted to let you know about our upcoming Advent services.  They will begin on Wednesday, November 30 at 8pm, (following Wednesday Bible Study) and will run each Wednesday evening through December 21.  The services will be no longer than an hour and our theme will be "Journey with Jesus."  We hope you'll join us for these special times, as we prepare our hearts and spirits for the coming of the infant Jesus in the past, as we think about Jesus in our present time, and as we anticipate the Second-coming of Jesus in the future.  All are welcome.

 

Well, it is time to wrap up today's edition.  Even though I will be gone next week, please leave any messages on our telephone here at church (815-886-4354) and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.  I will be back in the office on Monday, November 21^st.  Until then, I wish you all the blessings of peace, hope, faith, joy, health and love.

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church