WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Afternoon!

It has been really quiet but busy around the office this week, with
Pastor taking some well-deserved time off to enjoy with her family.
I'm getting ready to prepare the Annual Meeting folders, as well as do
a brief newsletter and calendar as we look ahead to 2013. Until we
get the information to you, please feel free to call me here in the
office at 815-886-4354 if you have questions about times or
activities.

Here is What's Happening at Good Shepherd over the next few weeks. . . .

1. Sun. Dec 30- Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am (announcements begin 10
minutes before each service) with Connection Café between services

2. Mon. Dec 31-Special New Year's Eve worship at 7pm

3. Tues. Jan 1, 2013-HAPPY NEW YEAR!

4. Thur. Jan 3-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Study at Stoughton's at 7pm

5. Fri. Jan 4-ALL ANNUAL REPORTS ARE DUE IN THE OFFICE TODAY

6. Fri. Jan 4-Friday Study meets at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

7. Sun. Jan 6-One Worship Service at 9:00am and will be followed by a
Budget Forum. All are encouraged to attend and help plan our 2013
budget.

8. Mon. Jan 7-Monday Study at the Suchomel's meets at 7pm

9. Tue. Jan 8-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 6:30-8pm at 2
Belmont Dr. at Rt. 53

10. Tue. Jan 8-Ministry Night at church at 7pm. All are welcome to
hear reports and help plan our various ministry activities.

11. Wed. Jan 9-First Wednesday Study of 2013 will meet at 6:30pm at
church. All are welcome!

12. Thur. Jan 10-FLY (Finally Loving Yourself) Lady meets at 7pm at
Lydia Faber's. Start 2013 out right by getting organized and learning
to love yourself as well.

13. Fri. Jan 11-Friday Study will meet at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

14. Fri. Jan 11-Crafters Night from 6pm at church. Bring your craft
projects and join us!

15. Sat. Jan 12-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30-11:30am
at 2 Belmont Dr. at Rt. 53. Helpers are always welcomed!

16. Sun. Jan 13-Worship at 8am* and/or 10am with Connection Café
between services (*new time)

New Year's Eve Worship - Before you ring in the New Year, why not give
thanks for the year that was? Join us on New Year's Eve at 7pm for a
special service of thanks and looking to the future. Holy Communion
will be offered.

A Vendor Fair is coming to Good Shepherd on February 9, 2013. Anyone
who is a direct selling vendor interested in a table should contact
Carrie Worthington via email carriejo.worthington@gmail.com for more
information.

Manna cards were successful (we made almost $300!) and will be offered
on a monthly basis. The next order form is ready and will be in
church this Sunday as well as being attached to this email. Orders
will need to be turned in by January 6, with delivery the following
Sunday. Use the cards for routine purchases and also to have on hand
at home for "extra" gift occasions that may come up.

Annual Reports Reminder - Council members, Ministry teams, and
financial folks - please remember that your annual reports are due to
Renea by Friday, January 4. The sooner you can get them done, the
better. Please email the reports to Renea, and copy Pastor Suzanne,
in a word document format. This makes it easier for editing purposes.
Questions? Please contact a Council member or Pastor Suzanne.

Romeoville Recreation Center Open House - Pastor Suzanne is looking
for a 4 or 5 people willing to serve at our table for this Open House.
It takes place on Tuesday, January 15 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. If you are
able to assist us, please email Pastor Suzanne. We basically need
someone to hand out flyers about the church, answer any questions that
come up, and invite people to church. This is an important, FREE way
for us to get the word out about our church. We hope you'll help!

Thank you!!! Pastor Suzanne and her family would like to thank the
congregation for the generous Christmas gift. They will use it to do
something together as a family. Thanks, again! May God bless you in
the coming year.

Pastor Suzanne is on vacation through January 2 in order to spend time
with her family. If you need to reach her for a confidential,
pastoral matter, please call her cell phone (815-355-2397).
Non-urgent messages can be left at the office with her assistant,
Renea, or via email and she will get back to you ASAP. Church matters
should be addressed by one of our church Council members - Sue
Hattimer, Camille Garcia, Judy Jordan, or Ronn Young-Black. Thanks!

Recap from last Sunday: Last Sunday, we lit our fourth candle on the
advent wreath - the candle of love. Pastor Suzanne reminded us of the
lyrics of a song by Foreigner, "I want to know what love is. I want
you to show me." We talked about how love is a verb and that how we
should people our love, or how we prove our love of God through our
action is very important. Who have you shown love to this week? Can
they tell what love is based on your actions?

Preview of this Sunday: Using text from Colossians, we'll talk about
how we are called to live as God's "chosen people." As we look to the
coming year, we'll think about how God might be moving us to change -
in our hearts, minds, and spirits, both as individuals and as a church
family.

Remember Grace, our Mooved by Eggsample cow. We can, with a few more
dollars, begin providing food pantry clients with milk and eggs by
February!

I am wishing you all the blessings of peace, love, hope, and joy as
well as health in 2013. Have a Happy New Year!

Renea Horn Johnson
Pastoral Assistant
Good Shepherd Church

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Afternoon!

In anticipation of the bad weather forecasted, both G2R and the
Shepherd's Pantry Quarterly Mtg. & Holiday Pot Luck have been
cancelled. While we may not get a lot of snow, both events would
rather everyone stays safely at home. The Pantry plans to reschedule
their event and we will pass along the information as soon as it is
determined.

Here is What's Happening at Good Shepherd over the next few weeks. . . .

1. TODAY-Thur. Dec 20-Deadline for submitting reports for the January
2013 Rod and Staff newsletter

2. Fri. Dec 21-Friday Study meets at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

3. Sat. Dec 22-Shepherd's Food Pantry is open from 9:30 to 11:30am at
2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53)

4. Sun. Dec 23-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am (announcements begin 10
minutes before each service) with Connection Café between services

5. Sun. Dec 23-Special "Light in the Midst of Darkness" Worship
service begins at 4:30pm (see information below)

6. Mon. Dec 24-Special Family Christmas Worship Service begins at 4pm
at the church

7. Mon. Dec 24-Special Candlelight Christmas Worship Service begins at
11pm at the church

8. Tues. Dec 25-Merry Christmas

9. Fri. Dec 28-Friday Study will meet at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

10. Sun. Dec 30- Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am (announcements begin 10
minutes before each service) with Connection Café between services

11. Mon. Dec 31-Special New Year's Eve worship at 7pm

12. Tues. Jan 1, 2013-HAPPY NEW YEAR!

13. Wed. Jan 2-Wednesday Bible Study at 6:30pm at church

14. Thur. Jan 3-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Study at Stoughton's at 7pm

15. Fri. Jan 4-ALL ANNUAL REPORTS ARE DUE IN THE OFFICE TODAY

16. Fri. Jan 4-Friday Study meets at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

17. Sun. Jan 6-One Worship Service at 9:30am will be followed by a
Budget Forum. All are encouraged to attend and help plan our 2013
budget.



"Light in the Midst of Darkness" - join Pastor Suzanne and others this
Sunday, 12/23 at 4:30pm as we lift up and worship with those who have
lost loved ones, are struggling with mental health issues, or just
have a hard time making it through the holidays. This service will
include songs and Scriptures that will offer hope to those who feel
they are in "darkness." We hope you'll help spread the word about
this service and maybe join us as we welcome others into our church.

Christmas Eve Worship - Join us at 4pm for our family-oriented worship
service or at 11pm for our traditional candlelight service. Both will
offer Holy Communion.

New Year's Eve Worship - Before you ring in the New Year, why not give
thanks for the year that was? Join us on New Year's Eve at 7pm for a
special service of thanks and looking to the future. Holy Communion
will be offered.

A Vendor Fair is coming to Good Shepherd on 2/9/13. Anyone who is a
direct selling vendor interested in a table should contact Carrie
Worthington via email carriejo.worthington@gmail.com for more
information.

Manna cards have all been distributed. Thank you to those who
participated in this fundraising program. We plan to offer the
opportunity to buy these gift cards from various vendors on a monthly
basis. The next order form will be included with the January Rod and
Staff newsletter and will need to be turned in by January 6.

World Finds gifts will be available at church once again on Sunday.
All sale profits will go to our Matthew 25 fund. Stop at the table
and look over these reasonably priced quality items that were first
offered at this summer's Music for Malaria Event.

Annual Reports Reminder - Council members, Ministry teams, and
financial folks - please remember that your annual reports are due to
Renea by Friday, January 4. The sooner you can get them done, the
better. Please email the reports to Renea, and copy Pastor Suzanne,
in a word document format. This makes it easier for editing purposes.
Questions? Please contact a Council member or Pastor Suzanne.

Recap from last Sunday: Our theme for the Third Sunday of Advent
was, "Joy." With our hearts still heavy from the news from Newtown,
CT, we talked together about how we can still find joy even in the
midst of pain and sorrow. Reading from Philippians 4, we were
reminded that the action of joy is rejoicing, something we are called
to do every day. We also revisited Paul's 4-Step Plan for Peace, from
Philippians 4 - Pray about everything; worry about nothing; tell God
what you need; thank Him for all He has done...then you will
experience His peace.

Preview of this Sunday: For this Fourth and final Sunday of Advent,
our theme will be "Love." As we make final preparations for the
celebration of Jesus' birth, we think about the love that brought Him
here, to be among us - Emmanuel, God with us. We'll think about how
this love changed the world and how it can continue to change the
world through all of us.

After the horrific tragedy in Connecticut last Friday, the need for
prayers and "light in the midst of darkness" is really great. It
makes us realize just what a blessing and how precious life really is.
I am wishing you all the blessings of peace, love, hope, joy and
health always. Have a Merry Christmas.

Renea Horn Johnson
Pastoral Assistant
Good Shepherd Church

Fwd: sshhhhhh...gift for Pastor

I have been asked to pass along the following message from Chris Daniels.  Pastor and Steve have been omitted from the list of those receiving this message, so please help us keep it a secret.  Also, please don't feel an obligation to gift Pastor.  You know it will be appreciated, but certainly is not expected.

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Chris Daniels <chris_audrey4196@sbcglobal.net>
Date: Sun, Dec 16, 2012 at 8:03 PM
Subject: sshhhhhh...gift for Pastor
To: Renea Horn <revassistant@gmail.com>

Hi Renea, Can you send out an email to folks that I will be collecting money for a Christmas gift and giving it to her on Christmas Eve...at the midnight service..thanks so much, Peace, Chris

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Morning!

A fence is being built around the field across from church, so we're getting a preview of the noises we can expect when they start to construct the new community center.  It will be interesting to watch the progress, won't it?

Here is What's Happening at Good Shepherd over the next few weeks. . . .

1. TONIGHT-Thur.  Dec 13-FLY (Finally Loving Yourself) Lady will meet at the home of Lydia Faber beginning at 7pm

2. Fri. Dec 14-Crafters Night at church from 6pm to midnight.  All crafters and their projects are welcome to come for an evening of crafty fellowship.  You can even learn scrapbooking if you are interested!

3. Fri. Dec 14-Friday Study meets at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

4. Sat. Dec 15-Church Council Meeting at 8:30am

5. Sun. Dec 16- Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am (announcements begin 10 minutes before each service) with Connection Café between services

6. Sun. Dec 16-Sunday School for ages 4 through 5th grade will meet at 9:15am in the church office

7. Mon. Dec 17-Monday Study at 7pm at the Suchomel home

8. Mon. Dec 17-3rd Monday Study at 7pm at the Sanchez home

9. Wed. Dec 19-Advent Lite Dinner will be served at 6pm-be sure to sign up so we have enough food for everyone. This will be followed by

10. Wed. Dec 19-Advent Book Study begins at 6:30pm and will be followed by

11. Wed. Dec 19-Advent Worship beginning at 8pm

12. Thur. Dec 20-Shepherd's Pantry Quarterly Mtg. and Holiday Pot Luck begins at 7pm at the Pantry

13. Thur. Dec 20-Deadline for submitting reports for the January 2013 Rod and Staff newsletter

14. Fri. Dec 21-Friday Study meets at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

15. Sat. Dec 22-Shepherd's Food Pantry is open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53)

16. Sun. Dec 23-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am (announcements begin 10 minutes before each service) with Connection Café between services

17. Sun. Dec 23-Special "Light in the Midst of Darkness" Worship service begins at 4:30pm (see information below)

18. Mon. Dec 24-Special Family Christmas Worship Service begins at 4pm at the church

19. Mon. Dec 24-Special Candlelight Christmas Worship Service begins at 11pm at the church

Readers wanted!!!

Pastor Suzanne is still looking for 5 or 6 people willing to share a Christmas story at our 4pm Christmas Eve service.  You are welcome to read a Christmas related story from your childhood or just a story that you enjoy.  This 4pm service is geared toward families with children and is a great place for special stories to be shared.  Please email Pastor Suzanne by this Sunday, 12/16, as she is already working on the services.  

"Light in the Midst of Darkness" - join Pastor Suzanne and others on Sunday, 12/23 at 4:30pm as we lift up and worship with those who have lost loved ones, are struggling with mental health issues, or just have a hard time making it through the holidays.  This service will include songs and Scriptures that will offer hope to those who feel they are in "darkness."  We hope you'll help spread the word about this service and maybe join us as we welcome others into our church.

Manna Gift Cards will be in church on Sunday.  Thanks to all who placed orders and helped to make the church almost $200!  We plan to continue the program on a monthly basis throughout the year, so please consider ordering gift cards for your everyday needs.  If you have questions or would like details about the program, please talk with Carrie Worthington or call the church office.

World Finds gifts will be available at church once again on Sunday.  All sale profits will go to our Matthew 25 fund.  Stop at the table and look over these reasonably priced quality items that were first offered at this summer's Music for Malaria Event. 

Annual Reports Reminder - Council members, Ministry teams, and financial folks - please remember that your annual reports are due to Renea by Friday, January 4.  The sooner you can get them done, the better.  Please email the reports to Renea, and copy Pastor Suzanne, in a word document format.  This makes it easier for editing purposes.  Questions?  Please contact a Council member or Pastor Suzanne.

Recap from last Sunday:   Our theme was, "Preparation."  We lit the second candle of our Advent wreath, the Candle of Preparation.  Using some of the text from Luke 3, about John the Baptist, we talked about how we prepare for Jesus.  We talked about the difference between preparing for the celebration of Jesus birthday, on Christmas, and preparing for the second coming of Jesus.  At our second service, Debbie Suchomel put it so wonderfully - the preparation for Jesus' first coming is about preparing externally; the preparation for Jesus' second coming is about preparing internally.  So, how are you preparing for Jesus?

Preview of this Sunday:  This Sunday, we'll light our Candle of Joy and, fittingly, our theme will also be, "Joy!"  We'll hear a song of praise from the prophet, Isaiah and the Psalmist, David.  We'll also hear from the apostle, Paul, in his words about rejoicing and finding peace.  As we come closer and closer to Christmas, we hope you'll take time to gather with your brothers and sisters in Christ to raise up our own praise and joy for the gift we have in Him.

Looking ahead-- Please mark your calendars now to reserve the following important dates--

January 6, 2013 - One service Sunday followed by a Budget Forum

January 27 - One service Sunday followed by Annual Congregational Meeting

Wishing you all the blessings of peace, love, hope, joy and health.  

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

Britt Kinder's mom's services

All,

We would like to ask, if you are able, that you come to Anderson Memorial Chapel, across from the church, at around 3:15p tomorrow (Sunday) for the wake of Joyce Kinder, Britt's mom.

At about 3:30p, Pastor Suzanne will ask Good Shepherd folk to gather around the family in a circle/blob and we will pray the Lord's Prayer together.

This "ritual" has come to mean a lot to the families for whom we do it, as well as to the people who are there to pray.

If you are not able to join us at that time, that is fine.  Pastor respectfully asks that, if you go prior to this, you don't inform the family, as we prefer to do it as a gift to them, of sorts.

Questions?  Please talk to Pastor at church and/or text her.

Thanks!

ARRANGEMENTS FOR JOYCE KINDER

Visitation and services for Britt Kinder's mother, Joyce, will held on Sunday, December 9th at Anderson Memorial Chapel.  She will be waked from 3 to 7pm with the funeral service taking place at 7pm.

Please keep the Kinder family in your prayers.

--
Renea Horn Johnson
Pastoral Assistant
Good Shepherd Church

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Welcome to December!

Hope that you have all received your December Rod and Staff newsletter which is chock full of information.  We ran out of space to post everything, so be sure to check this weekly email for the latest and any additional updates of activities.  

Here is What's Happening at Good Shepherd over the next few weeks. . . .

1. TONIGHT-Thur. Dec 6-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Study at 7pm at the Stoughton home

2. Fri. Dec 7-Friday Study at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

3. Sat. Dec 8-Shepherd's Food Pantry is open from 9:30-11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt. 53)

4. Sat. Dec 8-Praise Band Rehearsal at 1:30pm at the church

5. Sun. Dec 9-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am (announcements begin 10 minutes before each service) with Connection Café between services

6. Sun. Dec 9-Last day to turn in your Manna Gift Certificates order forms to the church

7. Sun. Dec 9-"Radical" Book Study will meet at 4pm at Pastor's home.  Please let her know ahead of time if you are planning to be there.

8. Mon. Dec 10-Monday Bible Study will meet at 7pm at the Suchomel's home

9. Tue. Dec 11-Ministry Night at church at 7pm  All are welcome to attend!

10. Wed. Dec 12-Advent Lite Dinner will be served at 6pm-be sure to sign up so we have enough food for everyone. This will be followed by

11. Wed. Dec 12-Advent Book Study begins at 6:30pm and will be followed by

12. Wed. Dec 12-Advent Worship beginning at 8pm

 

13. Thur. Dec 13-FLY (Finally Loving Yourself) Lady will meet at the home of Lydia Faber beginning at 7pm

14. Fri. Dec 14-Crafters Night at church from 6pm to midnight.  All crafters and their projects are welcome to come for an evening of crafty fellowship.  You can even learn scrapbooking if you are interested!

15. Fri. Dec 14-Friday Study meets at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

16. Sat. Dec 15-Church Council Meeting at 8:30am

17. Sun. Dec 16- Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am (announcements begin 10 minutes before each service) with Connection Café between services

18. Sun. Dec 16-Sunday School for ages 4 through 5th grade will meet at 9:15am in the church office

Sunday Book Study - Just a reminder that we'll be meeting at the home of Pastor Suzanne this Sunday.  If you are planning on attending the study, please email Pastor Suzanne so she knows how many to cook for...even those who come regularly should email her so she expects you.  Thanks!  Need her address or directions, please email or text her.

Ministry Night - Please join us next Tuesday, 12/11 at 7:00pm at church for our December Ministry Night.  We'll take a look back at our 2012 ministry events, give feedback on what worked and what we need to do differently.  We'll also look forward to 2013 and what God might be calling us to do.  All are welcome..whether you are part of a team or not!  Come, join us as we work and plan together!  Questions?  Please contact Sue Hattimer, Council President.

Readers wanted!!!

Pastor Suzanne is looking for 5 or 6 people who would be willing to share a Christmas story at our 4pm Christmas Eve service.  You are welcome to read a story from your own library or she can provide one for you.  If you are interested in participating, please email Pastor Suzanne by Sunday, 12/16, as she is already working on the services.  This 4pm service is geared toward families with children and will include stories, Christmas songs, and a special ending to take us out into the evening.

Manna Gift Card Order Forms are due in church on Sunday.  This is a perfect way to shop for those hard to get for people on your gifting list.  If you are interested in participating, please be prepared to place your orders by this Sunday, Dec. 9.  Order forms are available in the office or church.  You can also check our website for further information.

World Finds gifts will be available at church on Sunday.  All sale profits will go to our Matthew 25 fund. Stop at the table and look over the reasonably priced quality items that were first offered at this summer's Music for Malaria Event. 

Mooved by eggsample- Have you checked out our cow yet?  What do you suppose will be the next color of the heart spots that appear on Grace?  Do you know how to get them there?

Annual Reports Reminder - Council members, Ministry teams, and financial folks - please remember that your annual reports are due to Renea by Friday, January 4.  The sooner you can get them done, the better.  Please email the reports to Renea, and copy Pastor Suzanne, in a word document.  This makes it easier for editing purposes.  Questions? Please contact a Council member or Pastor Suzanne.

Recap from last Sunday:  Pastor Bergh gave us a message as we began the Sunday Advent season.  We lit the first candle on our wreath - the candle of Prophecy.  We heard from the prophet, Isaiah, as he prophesied about the future glory of Jerusalem.   We sang songs that reminded us of God's plan to bring Jesus into the world, a plan spoken about through the prophets, including Isaiah.  Who are the prophets of our day and what is God saying through them?

Preview of this Sunday:  This week, the second Sunday of Advent, we will light the candle of Preparation.  We'll hear from the prophet Isaiah again, as well as from the New Testament prophet, John the Baptist.  We'll think about what it means to both prepare ourselves, and others, for the coming of Jesus.  What exactly does it take to "be prepared?"  We hope you'll join us and invite a friend or two to join us too.

Looking ahead-- Please mark your calendars now to reserve the following important dates--

January 6, 2013 - One service Sunday followed by a Budget Forum

January 27 - One service Sunday followed by Annual Congregational Meeting

Please pray for the Kinder family on the passing this morning of Britt's mother, Joyce.  When information regarding services is available, we will post it on Facebook, or you can call the church office tomorrow.

Can you feel the anticipation building in readiness of celebrating the miraculous gift of Jesus?  That's what this holiday is all about.

Wishing you all the blessings of peace, love, hope, joy and health always.

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Evening!

 

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday giving thanks for all that God has provided to us.  This issue of What's Happening is coming to you from my home because I've been stricken with the flu.  It will be short since the Rod and Staff newsletter will be ready for you to get at church on Sunday.

 

Here's What's Happening over the next week. . .

 

1.      Fri. Nov 30-Friday Study will meet at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

 2.       Sat. Dec 1-*"Coffee with the Bishop" gathering at Shepherd of the Hill, Lockport, from 10:00 – Noon. 

3.      Sat. Dec 1-Family Scavenger Hunt begins at church at 6pm. All are welcome to come join the fun and fellowship!

 

4.      Sun. Dec 2-One Worship Service will be held at 9:30am at  the church

 

5.      Mon. Dec 3-Monday Study will be held at the Suchomel home beginning at 7pm

 

6.      Tues. Dec 4-Shepherd's Pantry will be open from 6:30 to 8pm at 2 Belmont Dr. (at Rt.53)

 

7.      Tues. Dec 4-M&M's Women's Bible Study will be at 7pm at the home of Jan Sanchez

 

8.      Wed. Dec 5-Advent Lite Dinner will be served at 6pm-be sure to sign up so we have enough food for everyone.  This will be followed by

 

9.      Wed. Dec 5-Advent Book Study begins at 6:30pm and will be followed by

 

10.  Wed. Dec 5-Advent Worship beginning at 8pm

 

11.  Thur. Dec 6-G2R (Genesis to Revelation) Study at the Stoughton's home begins at 7pm

 

12.  Fri. Dec 7-Friday Study will meet at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

 

13.  Sat. Dec 8-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30 to 11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr.

 

14.  Sat. Dec 8-Praise Band Rehearsal at church begins at 1:30pm

 

15.  Sun. Dec 9-Worship at 8:15 and/or 10am with announcements beginning 10 minutes before each service and Connection Café between services.

 

16.  Sun. Dec 9-Radical Book Study will meet at 4pm at Pastor Suzanne's home beginning at 4pm

 

Midweek Advent Events

Join us on Wednesday evenings at 6:00pm for a light supper, at 6:30pm for our Advent Book Study, "Christmas Gifts That Don't Break," and at 8:00pm for Advent worship. We hope you'll find these events a good opportunity for fellowship and conversation with your brothers and sisters from church, as well as a chance to focus on Jesus and his coming birth in the midst of a very busy season. PLEASE sign up for the supper so we make sure we order enough food - we'll be having soup, salad, and breadsticks from the Olive Garden. You are welcome to give a donation to help offset the costs. Books for the study are $4...not bad at all.

 

Sunday "Radical" Book Study

Next Sunday's (Dec. 9) session will be held at the home of Pastor Suzanne. Please call her if you need her address. This will be our last session before the holidays.

 

Need a little Christmas gift?  Want to give your spirit a lift?  Then be sure to visit the World Finds table at church.  All profits from the sale of the items will go to the Matthew 25 Fund.  Please put your payment in the envelopes provided and know that you will be helping someone in need.  If you have any questions, please talk to Chris Daniels, Jan Sanchez, Carol Erickson, or Pat Hurdle. Thank you for your support.

 

Do you shop online?  Do you purchase store gift certificates?  If so, be sure to check out the information at church about two new programs that will not cost you anything extra, but will earn funds for Good Shepherd Church.  We will have further details in December's Rod and Staff newsletter.

 

Recap from last Sunday: Our theme was, "Alpha and Omega." Using the text from Revelation 1, Pastor Suzanne shared a message about our God "who is, who always was, and who is still to come." Some of us can't let go of our past and so, it makes it difficult to see hope in the future. Or, we are stuck in the present, stagnant, and not doing what we need to do to move forward in our lives, particularly spiritually. Pastor Suzanne shared these powerful words, and an important reminder from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., "Let us remember that there is a creative force in this universe working to pull down the gigantic mountains of evil, a power that is able to make a way out of no way and transform our dark yesterdays into bright tomorrows." God is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last; the God who is, who always was, and who is still to come. God will be with us always - past, present, and future.

 

Preview of this Sunday: As we begin another season of Advent, we will light our Advent candles, the first one being the "Candle of Prophecy." And, as such, we will hear from one of the "major" prophets, Isaiah. We'll also hear a prophecy from the angel to Zechariah. And, we'll be reminded by the apostle, Paul, of his hope that our love will grow and overflow to each other. Be with us as we think about what God might be saying to us today through the "prophets" of our day. All are welcome! And don't forget, ONE service at 9:30am! Spread the word, please!

 

Be sure to get your Rod and Staff newsletter on Sunday.  It is packed with information about all of the special worship opportunities as well as in depth reports of what is happening, what has happened and what we plan to have happen.

 

Wishing you peace, hope, faith, love and health always!

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Happy Thanksgiving Eve!

 Since tomorrow is Thanksgiving, we are sending you this week's What's Happening (and two not happening) report today.  Here is What's Happening at Good Shepherd Church over the next week...

 1.      TONIGHT-Wed. Nov 21-Our annual Thanksgiving Eve Worship is at 7pm.  Afterward we'll enjoy pie and dessert fellowship.  Bring a friend, dessert to pass, and join us!

 2.      Fri. Nov 23-Rod and Staff December newsletter information needs to be submitted TODAY!  (NOTE:  The Friday Study will not be meeting tonight)

 3.      Sat. Nov 24-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30-11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr.

 4.      Sun. Nov 25- Worship at 8:15 and/or10am with Connection Café between services.  Announcements begin 10 minutes before each service.

 5.      Sun. Nov 25-"The Irresistible Revolution" Book Study will meet between 4 and 6pm at the home of Lydia Faber

 6.      Mon. Nov 26-Monday Bible Study at the Suchomel home begins at 7pm

 7.      Wed. Nov 28-Advent Book Study, "Christmas Gifts That Won't Break" meets from 6:30 to 7:45pm at church

 8.      Wed. Nov 28-Advent Worship Service at 8pm at church

 9.      Fri. Nov 30-Friday Study will meet at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

 10.  Sat. Dec 1-"Coffee with the Bishop" gathering on Saturday, December 1, at Shepherd of the Hill, Lockport, from 10:00 – Noon. 

 11.  Sat. Dec 1-Family Scavenger Hunt begins at church at 6pm.  All are welcome to come join the fun and fellowship!  Be sure to sign up at the back of church.

 12.  Sun. Dec 2-One Worship Service will be held at 9:30am

 Thanksgiving Eve Worship:  Join us this evening at 7pm for a special worship service focused on giving thanks. Before you go to spend time with your families, come gather with your church family as we thank God for the many blessings He has given us.  And, be sure to stay after for our dessert fellowship.  Please bring a friend, a dessert to share, and join us!  All are welcome!  (NOTE: There will NOT be a Wednesday study tonight.)

Advent Book Study and midweek worship:   We invite you to join Pastor Suzanne and others from the Wednesday study for a 4-week Advent Book Study of the book entitled "Christmas Gifts That Won't Break."   It starts November 28 and goes through the Wednesday before Christmas.  The study will take place from 6:30-7:45pm, followed by Advent worship at 8pm. Books are $4 each. The book and these midweek worship services are a great opportunity to stay focused on what really matters in the midst of this busy holiday season.  Join us and invite a friend too.

 Have you seen the Mooved by Eggsample cow?  We hope you'll check out and support this special fundraiser for providing milk and eggs to our Shepherd's Food Pantry.

 Recap of last Sunday:  Last Sunday, Pastor Suzanne gave a personal testimony of the time she and her family spent at the Point Breeze Fire Department in Breezy Point, Queens, NY.  She talked about how, when the people had lost everything, the one thing they held onto was their faith.  Using Jesus' words from Mark 13, Pastor reminded us that the buildings around us - no matter how big and beautiful - will fall away; our material things will fall away.  What will remain is our faith.  We need to hang on to it in good times and bad.  Pastor also spoke about trust and commitment and, using Paul's words from 1 Timothy 6, reminded us that money in and of itself is not bad.  It is "the love of money that is at the root of all kinds of evil."  How we spend our money reflects what we value.  As we look to a new year and making new commitments to the church, Pastor Suzanne encouraged us to think about how we spend our time and our money and how these will reflect our trust, commitment, and faith in God.

Preview of this Sunday:  This Sunday, our theme will be, "Alpha and Omega."  We'll look at several Scripture verses that remind us that God is, was, and is to come and how the never-changing, never-failing love of God can carry us through anything.  We invite you to join us in the post-Thanksgiving lull before the "hurry up and get ready for Christmas" journey begins.  All are welcome!

Please remember to get your Rod and Staff December newsletter information to me by Friday.  I will be here waiting for your reports!

Driving to work in the fog this morning, I was thinking about what I am thankful for, since I know we are invited to share that information at the Thanksgiving Eve worship.  I am personally thankful for the choices that have been and are given to me.  Have you thought about yours?  I look forward to sharing them with you tonight.

Here's wishing for you all the blessings of peace, hope, joy, health, thankfulness, and love always.  Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

Renea Horn Johnson, Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

REMINDER FROM GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Afternoon,

We just wanted to send you a reminder that this Sunday, November 18th is Commitment Sunday, a day when we dedicate our Faith Promises to God's work at Good Shepherd for 2013.  By now you should have received your Stewardship packet which includes the 2013 Faith Promise form.  Please prayerfully consider your 2013 commitment to Good Shepherd and bring your form with you to worship on Sunday.  At both the 8:15 and 10am Worship Services everyone will have an opportunity to bring theirs forward for a blessing.  

--
Renea Horn Johnson
Pastoral Assistant
Good Shepherd Church

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Good Afternoon!

 Pastor and her family made it back safely on Tuesday, and what an uplifting message she has to share about the New Yorkers who have been working together and supporting each other on the road toward recovery from devastating losses resulting from Hurricane Sandy.  It is like a miracle among the rubble.

 Here is What's Happening at Good Shepherd Church over the next few weeks...

 1.      TONIGHT-Thur. Nov 15-The Annual Preschool Thankful Dinner will be held from 6:30 to 8pm at the Preschool.  Bring a dish to pass and a non-perishable donation.  Please call the Preschool (815-886-4356) to let them know you're attending.

 2.      Fri. Nov 16-Reports for the Church Council need to be submitted to the office today

 3.      Fri. Nov 16-NEW!  Scrapbooking and Crafters will meet for the first time at the church beginning at 6pm and plan to go until midnight!  They have plans to meet at least twice a month.  See Carrie Worthington for further information.

4.      Fri. Nov 16-Praise Band rehearsal at church begins at 6:30pm

 5.      Fri. Nov 16-Friday Bible Study will meet at 7pm at the Voruz home.

 6.      Sat. Nov 17-Harvest Saturday!  Help is needed beginning at 10:30am (see info below)

 7.      Sun. Nov 18-Worship at 8:15 and/or10am with Connection Café between services.  Announcements begin 10 minutes before each service.

 8.      Sun. Nov 18-Sunday School for children 4 years old to 5^th Grade meets at 9:15am in the church office.

 9.      Sun. Nov 18-A New Member class will be conducted by Pastor Suzanne in the office following the 10am Worship service.  All are welcome to attend and learn about our church and the ELCA.

 10.  Mon. Nov 19-Monday Bible Study at the Suchomel's home at 7pm

 11.  Mon. Nov 19-3^rd Monday Study at the Sanchez home begins at 7pm

 12.  Tue. Nov 20-Church Council will meet at 7pm

 13.  Wed. Nov 21-Our annual Thanksgiving Eve Worship is at 7pm.  Afterward we'll enjoy pie and dessert fellowship.  Bring a friend, dessert to pass, and join us!

 14.  Thur. Nov 22-HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!

 15.  Fri. Nov 23-Rod and Staff December newsletter information needs to be submitted TODAY!

 16.  Sat. Nov 24-Shepherd's Food Pantry will be open from 9:30-11:30am at 2 Belmont Dr.

 17.  Sun. Nov 25- Worship at 8:15 and/or10am with Connection Café between services.  Announcements begin 10 minutes before each service.

 18.  Sun. Nov 25-Advent Book Study between 4 and 6pm this afternoon.

 Scrapping Crafters, who plan to meet two Friday nights a month, will have their first meeting tomorrow night at the church beginning at 6pm!  If you'd like to learn about scrapbooking, Carrie has volunteered her services in getting started.  Paper crafters are also planning to work (and visit) as well.  And, even though they're planning to stay until midnight, you are welcome to drop in and spend as much time as you wish.  All are welcome to come join in the "crafty" fun and fellowship.

 Harvest Saturday:  Help is still needed on Saturday for Harvest Saturday from 10:30am (sign in) to 3pm, to collect and sort.  People are also needed to bring pickups at 2:30pm to St. Andrews and help take food to the Pantry.  Please contact Kim Hanahan if you plan to be there.  Thanks!

 Thanksgiving Eve Worship:  Join us Wednesday evening at 7pm for a special worship service focused on giving thanks. Before you go to spend time with your families, come join with your church family as we thank God for the many blessings He has given us.  And, be sure to stay after for our dessert fellowship.  Please bring a friend, a dessert to share, and join us!  All are welcome!  (NOTE: There will NOT be a Wednesday study on this night.)

Advent Book Study and midweek worship:   We invite you to join Pastor Suzanne and others from the Wednesday study for a 4-week Advent Book Study of the book entitled "Christmas Gifts That Won't Break."   It starts November 28 and goes through the Wednesday before Christmas.  The study will take place from 6:30-7:45pm, followed by Advent worship at 8pm. Books are $4 each. The book and these midweek worship services are a great opportunity to stay focused on what really matters in the midst of this busy holiday season.  Join us and invite a friend too.

 An invitation from Bishop Wollersheim has been extended to attend the upcoming "Coffee with the Bishop" gathering on Saturday, December 1, at Shepherd of the Hill, Lockport, from 10:00 – Noon. 

In Bishop Gary Wollersheim's report to the Synod Assembly this past June he shared the following thoughts:  

"The year 2012 marks the 25^th anniversary of the founding of the Northern Illinois Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).  The word "synod" literally means "walking together."  By God's grace, we have walked together faithfully realizing that we can do more together in terms of God's mission than we can do individually.  God's work.  Our hands."

 

Please note that these "Coffee with the Bishop" meetings are intended for all rostered leaders and all congregational members.  The meetings will provide the opportunity to view the 25^th Anniversary DVD, which was shown during the Bishop's report at the Synod Assembly this past June, as well as provide time for questions from those attending. 

 

Recap from last Sunday:  Pastor Bergh gave us a message last Sunday and we also heard more from our Stewardship Team.  With Scriptures that reminded us that God provides for our needs, we remember that we always have enough with God.

 Preview of this Sunday:   Using a variety of Scripture, we'll be looking at the concept of money and commitment, as we come together to lift up our financial Faith Promises to God.  What does the Bible say about money?  How does our spending reflect our priorities?  How does our commitment to our Jesus journey bear itself out in our daily lives?  Join us!

 

This is a lot of information to absorb, so if you have any questions or want further details, feel free to call the office for the latest update on activities!  Here's wishing you all peace, hope, joy, health, and love always. 

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

BOOK STUDIES HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Please excuse this second email, but I realized that the "Irresistible Revolution" wasn't included on the What's Happening I sent earlier today.  The study will take place this Sunday, Nov.11th at 4pm at the home of Lydia Faber.

 

Also, Pastor is asking that anyone interested in an Advent Book Study be sure they sign up on the sheet in the back of church.  This 4-week study will meet on Wednesdays from November 28 to December 19th at 6:30pm at the church with Advent worship services will taking place at 8pm following the study.  Cost per book will be between $7 or $10.  However, if you are unable to afford the book, we will cover the costs.

 

Carrie Worthington asked me to let you know that, if you are interested in learning scrapbooking, she will be happy to help when they meet on Nov. 16.  See Carrie for more information.

 

Have a great weekend!

--
Renea Horn Johnson
Pastoral Assistant
Good Shepherd Church

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH

Hello!

 

Have you recovered from the time change confusion?  Are you missing all of the political propaganda we were flooded with?  I'm missing the sunshine and hope to find my happy light bulb to chase the seasonal gloom away!

 

Here is What's Happening at Good Shepherd Church over the next few weeks...

 

1.      TONIGHT-Thur. Nov 8-FLY Lady (Finally Loving Yourself) will meet at 7pm at Lydia Faber's home.  Come get organized and feel better about yourself.

 

2.      Fri. Nov 9-Friday Bible Study will meet at 7pm at the home of Laura Voruz

 

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

 

4.      Sun Nov 11-One worship service will be held at 9:30am at the church

 

5.      Sun Nov 11-Book Study will meet at 4pm at Lydia Faber's home

 

6.      Mon. Nov 12-Monday Study will meet at 7pm at the Suchomel home

 

7.      Tues. Nov 13-Ministry Teams meeting at 7pm at the church

 

8.      Wed. Nov 14-There will not be Bible Study tonight.  All are encouraged to attend the Heroin Awareness Event at Romeoville High School (see information below)

 

9.      Thur. Nov 15-The Annual Preschool Thankful Dinner will be held from 6:30 to 8pm at the Preschool.  Bring a dish to pass and a non-perishable donation.  Please call the Preschool (815-886-4356) to let them know you're attending.

 

10.  Fri. Nov 16-Reports for the Church Council need to be submitted to the office today

 

11.  Fri. Nov 16-NEW!  Scrapbooking and Crafters will meet for the first time at the church beginning at 6pm and plan to go until midnight!  They are planning to meet at least twice a month.  See Carrie Worthington for further information.

 

12.  Fri. Nov 16-Praise Band rehearsal at church begins at 6:30pm

 

13.  Fri. Nov 16-Friday Bible Study will meet at 7pm at the Voruz home.

 

14.  Sun. Nov 18-Worship at 8:15 and/or10am with Connection Café between services.  Announcements begin 10 minutes before each service.

 

15.  Sun. Nov 18-Sunday School for children 4 years old to 5^th Grade meets at 9:15am in the church office.

 

 

Heroin Awareness Event - Please join the Romeoville Police Department and the Valley View School District this Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00p at Romeoville High School for a very important discussion on the prevalence of heroin in and around our community.  There will be a variety of speakers, including the mom of the young man who died on the day of one of our Special Congregational Meetings.  If you have kids, work with kids, or just care about the kids of our community, please make every effort to attend this meeting.  Thanks!

 

Pastor on vacation-- Pastor Suzanne is on vacation through Monday, November 12.  During this time, if you have a pastoral emergency, please call or text Pastor on her cell phone (815-355-2397) and she will make arrangements to get someone to you.  Non-emergency messages can be left with Renea in the church office (815-886-4354).  Church matters can be handled by one of our Council members - Sue Hattimer, Cami Garcia, Judy Jordan, or Ronn Young-Black.  Please pray for safe travel for Pastor and her family.

 

Joliet Job Corps Worship - We are hoping to worship with the lgbt students at Joliet Job Corps next Sunday, November 18 at 6pm.  Pastor Suzanne will be confirming this when she gets back.  If you are interested in going for worship, please email Pastor Suzanne so she can keep you updated.  Thanks!

 

LOOKING AHEAD:  Be sure to mark your calendar for Wednesday, November 21 at 7pm.  This is our annual Thanksgiving Eve Worship and Dessert Fellowship.  After our worship service, where we will give thanks to God for all our blessings, we will gather a time of fellowship...and dessert.  Please bring a dessert to share and join us!

 

Recap from last Sunday: Last week, our theme was, "It's All About Love."  Using several Scripture readings including Deuteronomy 6, Mark 12, and 1 John, Pastor Suzanne talked about the Great Commandment and how we are called to live that out in our lives.  The Great Commandment, "Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love our neighbor as yourself," is something Jesus calls us to do.  We discussed why it is sometimes hard to love our neighbors...and ourselves.  We talked about why the Deuteronomy text does not include loving God with all your mind, while the text from Mark (with Jesus' words) does.  As we've discussed before, our mindset often changes how we act.  So, if we are loving God with all our mind, let alone our heart, soul, and strength, perhaps it will become easier to love our neighbors...and ourselves.  Our challenge for the week was to think about how we can do better at loving God and loving others.

 Preview of this Sunday:   This week, our theme will be, "Always Enough."  We'll get to hear the story of Elijah and the widow from 1 Kings; we'll hear Paul's words about the generous farmer; and we'll hear Jesus' words and observations about the widow's offering.  We'll think about what it means to have enough...what does that really mean?  Be sure to join us!

 

One final note:  We want to express a big THANK YOU to all those who helped out with the Estate Sale for Darlene's benefit.  Whether you were here a lot or a little, all of us working together was really heartwarming and Darlene appreciates it more than words can express.

 

I'll be off tomorrow to take care of some personal business, but will back in the office on Monday.  Here's wishing you all peace, hope, joy, health, and love always.  

 

Renea Horn Johnson

Pastoral Assistant

Good Shepherd Church

 

Fwd: ELCA responds to Hurricane Sandy

Pastor Suzanne and the Church Council have requested I forward this message from the ELCA to you.

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ, God's word of promise is given to all who are facing uncertainty, damage and disruption following Hurricane Sandy and its subsequent storms. That word of promise is Christ is with you always. With Paul we can say, "If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it." (1 Corinthians 12:26) As members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we remain in prayer, responding generously and working tirelessly to rebuild lives, congregations and communities. We are not doing this work alone. Through ELCA Disaster Response, we are joining with our congregations, affiliates and other partners in our shared commitment to restore communities. As we have shown in past disasters, we stay until the work is done. That is the ELCA's commitment. Please continue to respond with prayers, generous gifts of time and money, and the commitment to a sustaining presence. Visit ELCA Disaster Response at www.ELCA.org/disaster for updates, downloadable bulletin inserts, worship resources and ways to make contributions online. Thank you for your prayers and generosity as we respond together and do God's work in Christ's name for the life of the world. In God's grace, The Rev. Mark S. Hanson Presiding Bishop Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

This email was sent to members and friends of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. To update your email address or your communication preferences, please send a note to constituent.care@elca.org. To ensure that you continue to receive these emails, please add constituent.care@elca.org to your address book or safe list.

© Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 8765 W Higgins Rd, Chicago, IL 60631  800-638-3522 | Home | Privacy Policy | Bishop Hanson Message Archive