Messiah Lutheran Church November ~ 2014

14920 Hutchison Rd. Tampa, Florida (North of Ehrlich) 33625-5507

Rev. Dr. Dennis Goff - Vacancy Pastor 763-614-9585 dennis.goff@lcef.org

Tammy Nunes, Office Administrator 961-2182 (Office)

tnunes@messiahtampa.com 968-8895 (Office)

Fax 961-0592

Abby Moss, Family Life Minister 789-7143 (C) www.messiahtampa.com

Jody Schweichler, Preschool Director/Teacher 968-9534

Kim Capsas, Minister of Music/Organist 948-2767

Worship:

8:30 AM (Holy Communion 1st, 3rd and 5th Sundays) Christian Education:

9:45 AM Contemporary (Holy Communion 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays) 9:45 AM

11:00 AM (Holy Communion 1st, 3rd and 5th Sundays)

Thanksgiving – A Time for “Giving” Thanks

On the final day of creation, God said: “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness . . .” (Genesis 1:26). So, what is the “image” of God? What is God’s “likeness”? There are many, many ways to describe the image of God. But for the sake of brevity here, and for the purpose of this article, I want to highlight just one; and the image of God that I want to highlight is described in a number of places:

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I

live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20) “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself

as a ransom for all men” (1 Timothy 2:5-6). “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” (Isaiah 40:29). “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57). “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing” (John 6:63). “For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not

perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). You see, over and over again it is evident that clearly one aspect of God’s image is that He is a “giver.” And so if we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26), then we too are called to be “givers” as well. No wonder the apostle Paul says, “But just as you excel in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete ear-nestness and in your love for us, -- see that you also excel in this grace of giving” (2 Corinthians 8:7). Not only does Paul speak about our giving, but he encourages us to “excel” in it. With the above in mind, then it seems only natural for people in the body of Christ to talk about (and practice) “giving.” It’s a part of our life as a disciple. And it seems all the more natural to talk about our giving during the month of November when we are of the mind to celebrate “thanksgiving.” So, during the month of November here at Messiah we are going to focus on our giving under a theme of “Consecrated Stewards.” A few of the things that will be a part of this emphasis:

For four Sundays during the month of November, Pastor Goff, together with Rev. Tom Zehnder, will teach on what it means to be a “giver” in our life as a disciple of Christ. Rev. Zehnder was the former Dis-trict President of the Florida-Georgia District and is also a trained guest leader for Consecrated Stewards.

We have asked a few of Messiah’s members to share some personal words of encouragement on what God has taught them about being a “giver.”

We want to highlight some of the many ministries that take place at Messiah that demonstrate some of the ways in which Messiah members give to the Lord and others.

On the fourth Sunday of our Consecrated Stewards focus, Messiah members will be asked to complete an “estimate of giving” card as a part of your financial stewardship response for the coming year.

On Sunday, November 23, Messiah will celebrate its annual “Pre-Thanksgiving” meal which will also serve as a celebration for the response of God’s people in preparing their giving for the coming year.

The ministry of Messiah Lutheran Church is at a critical crossroads as you prepare for the calling of your next pastor. One of the best ways that a church can present themselves to their new pastor is by a healthy com-mitment to respond to God’s blessings in their giving. I pray that God will bless our time together this month as we do as St. Paul encourages, “But just as you excel in everything . . . see that you also excel in this grace of giving” (2 Corinthians 8:7).

Pastor Goff

Messiah Lutheran Church

14920 Hutchison Road

Tampa, Florida 33625

Non-Profit Organization

U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Tampa, FL.

Permit No. 3341 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Statement of Mission

We, the members of Messiah Lutheran, in grateful thanksgiving for the blessings of forgiveness, life and salvation through

Jesus Christ our Lord:

~ Consecrate ourselves to grow in faith

~ Devote ourselves to grow in service

~ Dedicate ourselves to grow in witness outreach

Reflect on all the Blessings

God has given you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

SERVING MESSIAH IN OCTOBER

8:30 AM 11:00 AM

ACOLYTES: 2 Blake Saylor Matthew Jones 9 Blake Saylor Maria Bellott 16 Evan Munzen Colin Gabriel 23 Delanie Matson Kyle Mavrides 27 - Thanksgiving ~ ~ 9:00 a.m. ~ ~ Need a Volunteer 30 Alvin Forte Pierce Rodrick ELDERS: 2 Mike Castro & Ed Picillo Mike Healey & Nathan Watters 9 Ed Picillo Gary Weber 16 Mike Castro & Mike Mekelburg Bill Meyer & Gary Weber 23 Mike Castro Mike Healey 27 - Thanksgiving Day ~ ~ 9:00 a.m. ~ ~ Mike Mekelburg 30 Mike Mekelburg & Ed Picillo Dale Laxton & Nathan Watters ALTAR GUILD: Donna Bartholomew & Susan Olds Janet Sasanko & Allyson Kessler GREETERS: 2 Keith & Beverly Bakalyar Rudy & Carol Cabina 9 Bill & Betty Hilbmann Udo & Allyson Kessler 16 Susan Olds Mike & Penny Healey 23 Erika Rebuck Marjorie Noyes 30 Bob & Diane Wawrzyniak Jim & Dianne Gardner PROJECTIONISTS 2 (8:30) Joshua Ellerbee (9:45) Annette Ryan (11:00) David Pergande

9 (8:30) Michael Cox (9:45) Nathan Nester (11:00) Michael Bohren

16 (8:30) Teresa Klicker (9:45) Kathy Larson (11:00) Mark Lemke

23 (8:30) Kevin Garriott (9:45) Annette Ryan (11:00) David Pergande 27 - Thanksgiving Day ~ ~ 9:00 a.m. ~ ~ Kathy Larson

30 (8:30) Michael Cox (9:45) Nathan Nester (11:00) Kathy Larson

COFFEE: 2 Floyd Skeins 9 LWML 16 Ernie & Gail Munzen 23 Donna Bartholomew 30 Thrivent CONTEMPORARY SERVICE 9:45 a.m. USHERS: ELDERS: ACOLYTES 2 Floyd Skeins & Sara Skeins Ron Dial Emma Irwin 9 Joni Daniel & Jolianna Daniel Ron Dial & Bob Harrigan Angelina Dial 16 Ron Dial & Sarah Parker Bob Harrigan Tyler Matthews 23 Steve & Gaylene Gay Ron Dial & Bob Harrigan Aryn Nester 30 Floyd Skeins & Sara Skeins Bob Harrigan Emma Irwin

November Birthday Blessings!November Birthday Blessings!November Birthday Blessings!November Birthday Blessings!

The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

Psalm 126

1 Barbara Packer

Patricia Plager

2 Pastor Holstein

Debbie Schoppa

3 Silvia Bannister

Udo Kessler

4 Michael Gregg

Mary Plotkowski

Amy Podosek

5 Phil Mattice

Connor McKenzie

Grace McKenzie

6 Meghann Thacker

7 Ralph Lloyd

Paul Meyer

Sandi Windsor

8. Tim Buchanan

Bob Link

Joseph Martin

10 Joni Daniel

Alice Edge

Sadie Irwin

11 Allison Ekendiz

12 Anne Hanto

Megan Jackson

Karen Lundy

Hunter Rodrick

13 Tim Hohl

Thelma Mavrides

Bruce Noyes

Mike Parnow

15 James Capsas

Carol Harrigan

Craig Rozell

David Spiwak

16 Connie Buckner

Pam Dalton

17 Beatrice Rose

Laura Vest

David West

18 Barbara Johnson

Steven Mane

Mark Scheimann

20 George Lamp

Luann Laxton

22 Rob Hilbert

23 Martha DeWeese

Cindy Munro

Shilo N’Dao

24 Harold Johnson

25 Brianna Martin

26 Sonya Kessler

Phyllis Mattice

Pat Scalise

27 Lysle Ellis

Karen Neidig

28 Lenna Ellerbee

30 June Cole

Kit Judge

Reading Through the New New Testament in 90 Days

Reading Guide

WEEK ELEVEN

□ Sunday, October 26 Worship: 8:30, 9:45, 11:00

□ Monday, October 27 Colossians 4, I Thessalonians 1-2

□ Tuesday, October 28 I Thessalonians 3-5

□ Wednesday, October 29 II Thessalonians 1-3

□ Thursday, October 30 I Timothy 1-3

□ Friday, October 31 I Timothy 4-6

□ Saturday, November 1 II Timothy 1-3

WEEK TWELVE

Sunday, November 2 Worship: 8:30, 9:45, 11:00

– ALL SAINTS SUNDAY

Monday, November 3 II Timothy 4, Titus 1-2

Tuesday, November 4 Titus 3, Philemon 1, Hebrews 1

Wednesday, November 5 Hebrews 2-4

Thursday, November 6 Hebrews 5-7

Friday, November 7 Hebrews 8-10

Saturday, November 8 Hebrews 11-13

WEEK THIRTEEN

Sunday, November 9 Worship: 8:30, 9:45, 11:00

Monday, November 10 James 1-3

Tuesday, November 11 James 4-5, I Peter 1

Wednesday, November 12 I Peter 2-4

Thursday, November 13 I Peter 5, II Peter 1-2

Friday, November 14 II Peter 3, I John 1-2

Saturday, November 15 I John 3-5

WEEK FOURTEEN

Sunday, November 16 Worship: 8:30, 9:45, 11:00

Monday, November 17 II John 1, III John 1, Jude1

Tuesday, November 18 Revelation 1-3

Wednesday, November 19 Revelation 4-6

Thursday, November 20 Revelation 7-9

Friday, November 21 Revelation 10-12

Saturday, November 22 Revelation 13-15

WEEK FIFTEEN

Sunday, November 23 Worship: 8:30, 9:45, 11:00

Monday, November 24 Revelation 16-18

Tuesday, November 25 Revelation 19-21

Wednesday, November 26 Revelation 22

Thursday, November 27 THANKSGIVING WORSHIP – 9:00 am

Ministries & Activities

Adult Bible Study (Sunday 9:45 a.m.)

Mark Lemke - “Books of the Bible” - Ministry Center Room 201

Bible Study - “Book of Concord” - Ernie Munzen - CLC - Middle

Altar Guild - Lois Draper @ 961-8287 or Judy Riveiro @ 961-9471

Angel Stitches - CLC - Room 1 - Contact Judy Riveiro @ 961-9471 or Lynn Turke @ 960-7289

Assimilation - CLC - Conference Room - Contact Bruce Noyes @ 264-0760

Bakalyar’s Neighborhood Bible Study - At her home - Contact Beverly @ 300-3085

BAMOMS - CLC - Middle

Blind Ministry Luncheon - CLC - Middle - Contact Diane Wawrzyniak @ 962-3585

Boy Scouts - Ministry Center - Room 204 & Gym

Center for Hispanic Studies - Ministry Center - Room 204

Choir - Sanctuary - Monday - Contact Kim Capsas @ 598-8160 or Facebook

Christian Education Mtg. - Copier Room - Contact Loraine Eden @ 732-3078

Cub Scouts – Pack 18 - CLC - Middle, Room 1,2,3 & Conference Room

Florida Suncoast Decorative Artist - CLC - Middle

Handbells - Sanctuary - Monday - Contact Kim Capsas @ 598-8160 or Facebook

LifeLight Bible Study - CLC - Conference Room - Wednesday @ 10:00 a.m.

LWML - Contact Nancy Lemke at 264-5095

Memorial Garden Committee - Cry Room - Contact Lu Heine @ 569-9377

Men’s Bible Study - CLC - Conference Room ~ Wednesday Morning 7:00 a.m.

Messiah’s Followers Forever - Ministry Center ~ Contact Barbara Packer @ 428-6204

Narcotics Anonymous - Ministry Center - Youth Room

Pinochle - contact David West at 972-8861 or westbaysol@hotmail.com; play monthly

Preschool Fellowship - Ministry Center - Gym

Senior Adults - Lois Dworkin - 727-648-4365 or Dorothy Biegert - 961-0659

Social Ministry - CLC - Conference Room

Stephen Ministry Support - Ministry Center - Rm. 201- Walt Halfmann, 792-8406

Trail Life - CLC

Wednesday Evening Adult Bible Study ~ 6:45 - 7:45, Ministry Center #201

Young Adults 20’s - 30’s - Abby Moss, 789-7143

Youth Choir/Flag Team - Contact Kim Capsas @ 598-8160 or Facebook

Youth Sunday Afternoon - Ministry Center - Gym & Youth Room - Abby Moss, 789-7143

Suitcase Drive!

Benefits foster children in Hillsborough County. Last year, your Thrivent Chapter provided Christmas gifts for some of the more than 4,000 children currently in some form of State supported Foster Care in our county. During this project we were made aware of a critical need for suitcases for these kids. Here is what the Foster Care Coordinator for The Children’s Home told us: “When a child is lucky enough to be moved to a foster home or to a permanent (adoptive) home they often have no way of moving their clothes and other posses-sions other than in plastic garbage bags. This sends a terrible message to these kids about how they are viewed and valued. Having a suitcase gives them a small measure of dignity and would increase rather than further decrease their sense of self-esteem and would make moving a little easier.” Bob Krouse, Foster Care Co-ordinator for The Children’s Home What Can You Do to Help? Bring your unneeded/unwanted suitcases to your church where your Thrivent con-gregational advocate will collect them between November 2- 16. They don’t need to be new, just clean and functional. All sizes are needed and wheeled ones are preferred. No Suitcases? Please consider donating a couple of dollars toward the renting of a truck to pick up and deliver them to The Children’s Home before Thanksgiving. Please contact your congregational advocate, Thrivent representative or jerry.hansen@thrivent.com if you have any questions.

Thank you in advance for your donations!

Morning LWML Meeting ~ Tuesday, November 11th at 10:30 a.m. in the CLC.

Evening LWML Meeting ~ Thursday, November 20th at 7:30 p.m. at Cathy Most’s home.

DATE CHANGE: Newsletter Information ~ All directors, committee members, and anyone else desiring to place announcements in the December Newsletter, please e-mail to Tammy at tnunes@messiahtampa.com by Tuesday, November 11th. Carrollwood Care Center Birthday Parties ~ The monthly birthday for this month will be held Wednesday, November 19th at 2:15 PM at Carrollwood Care Nursing Home (located right behind Messiah). Any questions? - call Diane Gardner at 813-920-4749 or Mary Plotkowski at 813-960-9220 Senior adults will meet for lunch at 11:30 on Thursday, November 20th at Pizza Villa at 21501 Village Lakes Shopping Center (rt 54). Please have your reservations in by Monday,17th to Dorothy Biegert at 961-0659 or Lois Dworkin at 727-648-4365 or email lrdmom@gmail.com. Personnel Committee: Messiah is re-establishing a personnel committee to review staff policies and procedures. If you have Human Resource experience, or would be interested in serving on this short-term committee, please contact Joel Mathews, (813) 265-1402, or email at jmathews2528@netscape.net. New LED Sign: Permits have been secured and work will be commencing on replac-ing our aging sign in front of the church with a new LED sign. This will allow us to advertise our many ministries, activities, and Preschool to the over 14,000 vehicles that pass by us each day. We are in need of people to prepare the graphics - no ex-perience necessary, training will be provided! Contact or text Grant Walters 813-504-1038 or e-mail waltersg@mindspring.com.

Reminder…

Set your clocks back

Saturday Night

November 1st

Hispanic Ministry

Selling Cuban Sandwiches

The Hispanic Ministry at Messiah will be offering Cuban sandwiches on Sunday, November 2nd. Be sure to stop by the table after each service to take home your Cuban sandwiches. Cost is $5.00.

This is for the purpose of raising funds to provide Christmas gifts for the children.

Thank you for your blessings!

Resealing and Repainting the Parking Lots

We need to reseal and repaint the parking lots and at the same time will be

adding some additional handicap spaces. In order to accomplish that task we

will be doing that on November 25th and 26th. The parking lots will be closed

to all traffic on those days and will be re-opened about 4:00 PM on the 26th.

Please do not schedule any activities on the evening of the 25th. We apologize

in advance for any inconvenience this will cause but we tried to pick dates

when there was no school and hopefully limited use of the church facilities.

Thanks for your co-operation in this matter.

I WANT YOU TO ATTEND THE

PRE-THANKGIVING & CONSECRATION DINNER

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23 - 5:30 PM

WE PROVIDE THE TURKEY, POTATOES, GRAVY,

ROLLS AND STUFFING

BRING EITHER SALAD, VEGETABLE OR DESSERT

SIGN-UP SHEET ON THE BULLETIN BOARD

Messiah’s Social Ministry

“SILENT AUCTION”

Bidding Begins Sunday, November 9th and Ends

Sunday, November 16th

NOTE THE DATE! The beautiful, themed gift baskets are getting their final touches in October and will be on display for bidding on November 9th and 16th. There will be gift baskets appropriate for many occasions, especially for folks on your Christmas list. There will remain only 39 days ‘til Christmas at auction’s end!

Funds raised will support Messiah’s Social Ministry projects to assist disadvantaged individuals, children, and families in our community. Join with other Messiah members and help make this year’s Auction another, big success!!

Benefit for Hope Children’s Home

Our chapter is supporting the Avila Golf & Country Club’s tournament for Hope Children’s Home. We would like to sponsor a bedroom in honor of Thrivent member and officer Sharon Mekelburg. Sharon loved the home and worked to support it for years. We will assist with the silent auction at the Night of Hope, November 22. Dinner and silent auction. Golf tournament is held Monday, November 24. Please contact Jerry.hansen@thrivent.com or 813-443-5088 for more information of volunteering, donating items or golfing!

Thank you in advance for your donations!

Ticket Order Form

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!Hear Ye! Hear Ye!Hear Ye! Hear Ye!Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Castle Maidens and Minstrels are Making Ready the King’s Banquet Hall

for Messiah Music Ministry’s

Yuletide Renaissance Feast and ConcertYuletide Renaissance Feast and ConcertYuletide Renaissance Feast and ConcertYuletide Renaissance Feast and Concert

(Madrigal Dinner)(Madrigal Dinner)(Madrigal Dinner)(Madrigal Dinner) Please fill out entirely and submit to the King’s mailbox or to the church office during the week. Reservation form must be accompanied by check made to Messiah Lutheran Church. Kindly

secure your reservation by December 1st. All tickets must be purchased in advance.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.

(Doors open for seating at 5:45 p.m.) Please indicate the tickets you wish to purchase.

____Adults $22.50 ____Children under 12 $15.00 ____Royal Patron Table for 6 $165 ____Royal Patron Table for 7 $185 ____Royal Patron Table for 8 $205 ____Pair of Royal Tickets $65.00 ____Royal Foursome $115.00 Total enclosed____________

Reserved Seating includes a Sumptuous, Catered Feast served to you and entertainment by the King’s Court Singers, jester and instrumentalists. Additionally, Royals may take part in a knighting ceremony, visit with the King and Queen, and receive noble trinkets befitting their station. The generous support of Royal Patrons helps covers costs associated with this event.

Name: Sir/Lady____________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________ Phone___________________ email______________________ Remember, in order to reserve you must attach your check with this form. Pick up my tickets at church in advance____________ (preferred method) Please mail my tickets___________

Messiah Lutheran Church

14920 Hutchison Road

Tampa, FL 33625

Phone 813-961-2182

Carrollwood Care Center

Please keep our volunteers in your prayers as we go to celebrate the residents having

birthdays in the month of November - the date is Wednesday, November

19th at 2:15 PM and the place is Carrollwood Care Nursing Home

(located right behind Messiah). Continue to donate small gifts for the

residents (bed socks, slipper-sox, lap robes, handkerchiefs, etc) and place

in the box in the narthex - thank you!

WITNESS TO "THE LEAST OF THESE"

An exciting opportunity for training and application of personal witnessing is waiting for

you! If you feel the Holy Spirit's call to experience the blessings of sharing the Good News

with prison inmates in a well organized and experienced event, please consider volunteer-

ing. The Bill Glass "Behind The Walls" is coming to Florida, this time to Jacksonville Dec 4-

6. Go to http://billglass.org to learn more, and to register. Platform Guests (entertainers

and speakers) are presented first to get the inmates interested, then we step in and go

over the tract with them. If you would like a ride or have questions, see Dale Laxton, (813-

495-7118), to coordinate (I have a 7 passenger van). We will drive up Thursday afternoon,

training is Thursday evening, and we will return Sat evening, 6 Dec, after going into the

facilities Fri and Sat. Let's get a good group going! Registration deadline is November

12th.

Women of Messiah – LWML

Three ladies from Messiah attended the District LWML convention in Jacksonville. We

had a great week-end, only wish more ladies could have attended. We voted on nine

mite projects for the next two years which totaled $71,757.00. A list of the projects will be posted on the

church bulletin board so you can see where your mite donations will go.

The morning group of ladies will meet on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 10:30 a.m. in the CLC conference

room. We will be making plans for the upcoming Advent by Candlelight tea and sorting invitations to go

out to all the ladies of the congregation. Please bring canned goods to this meeting to be given to social

ministries outreach for Thanksgiving. The evening ladies will meet on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m. at

Cathy Most’s home, 7103 Halifax Ct. All ladies are welcome.

The Advent by Candlelight Tea will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. We are still in need of a few

ladies who are willing to host a table for this event. The hostess would decorate and set a table with

whatever Christmas or Advent decorations they wish. It is always a lovely time to prepare for the Christ-

mas season. Desserts, coffee and tea are provided. This year our entertainment will be Praising Hymn, a

group who will perform Christmas music for us. You won’t want to miss this event so mark your calendars

and invite your lady friends and family.

FOOD BASKETS FOR COMMUNITY NEEDY

Collecting through December 15th

Your help is needed for this holiday mission which is co-sponsored by Messiah Social Ministry and Messiah Elders. Economic conditions are especially bleak for families of the unemployed and underemployed around us. Cash or check donations, marked “Food Baskets”, may

be deposited in the collection plate using envelopes in the pew rack. Additionally, dona-tions of non-perishable food items are welcome and may be deposited into the collection container you will find in the narthex. Messiah Social Ministry and Messiah Elders will coordinate delivery of your gifts of food to needy families identified in our local area. Thanks, in advance, for your support and generous spirit to show God’s love by sharing His bountiful blessings.

We need staffing for the following 4 positions: � 2 teachers

� 2 helpers

Substitute teachers: persons who can teach or help on short

notice.

It is required that all teachers and helpers attend a child abuse prevention seminar to be announced later. We promise you our support if you sign up. There is a sign up list on the portable bulletin board. We only have one month left to fill these positions. If you want to preview the lessons this fall, please go to: http://group.com/sunday-school/live.

Thanksgiving Weekend Special Services & ProgramsThanksgiving Weekend Special Services & ProgramsThanksgiving Weekend Special Services & ProgramsThanksgiving Weekend Special Services & Programs

Sunday, November 23rd, 5:30PM Congregation Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner.

Thursday, November 27th, 9AM Thanksgiving Worship Service.

Sunday, November 30th, 9:45AM Special Sunday School/Bible Class for all

ages in the CLC.

Normal Sunday School/Bible Class resumes December 7th.

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!Hear Ye! Hear Ye!Hear Ye! Hear Ye!Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

The Castle Maidens and Minstrels areThe Castle Maidens and Minstrels areThe Castle Maidens and Minstrels areThe Castle Maidens and Minstrels are

Making Ready the King’s Banquet HallMaking Ready the King’s Banquet HallMaking Ready the King’s Banquet HallMaking Ready the King’s Banquet Hall

for Messiah Lutheran Church’sfor Messiah Lutheran Church’sfor Messiah Lutheran Church’sfor Messiah Lutheran Church’s

Yuletide Renaissance Feast and ConcertYuletide Renaissance Feast and ConcertYuletide Renaissance Feast and ConcertYuletide Renaissance Feast and Concert

(Madrigal Dinner)(Madrigal Dinner)(Madrigal Dinner)(Madrigal Dinner)

Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.

Adults ($22.50) Children under 12 ($15)

Patrons: Royal Tables for 6 ($165), 7 ($185), or 8 ($205), Royal Pair ($65) and Royal 4 ($110) are

also available. The generous support of Royal Patrons helps cover costs associated with this special event.

This year we have invited Steinbrenner High School’s Premier Choir Entourage to delight us with merry

melodies, and join Messiah Choir and Youth in serving and entertaining our guests. We encourage you to

invite guests to enjoy this inspirational event, which is family appropriate.

Reserved Seating Includes a Sumptuous and Bountiful Catered Feast, Reserved Seating Includes a Sumptuous and Bountiful Catered Feast, Reserved Seating Includes a Sumptuous and Bountiful Catered Feast, Reserved Seating Includes a Sumptuous and Bountiful Catered Feast,

served to you, and Entertainment by the King’s Court Singers, Jesters, and served to you, and Entertainment by the King’s Court Singers, Jesters, and served to you, and Entertainment by the King’s Court Singers, Jesters, and served to you, and Entertainment by the King’s Court Singers, Jesters, and

Minstrels.Minstrels.Minstrels.Minstrels.

Please submit a ticket request form to order tickets. (Place in the castle on Please submit a ticket request form to order tickets. (Place in the castle on Please submit a ticket request form to order tickets. (Place in the castle on Please submit a ticket request form to order tickets. (Place in the castle on

Sundays, or by mail.) Please contact Kim Capsas (598Sundays, or by mail.) Please contact Kim Capsas (598Sundays, or by mail.) Please contact Kim Capsas (598Sundays, or by mail.) Please contact Kim Capsas (598----8160) for group 8160) for group 8160) for group 8160) for group

sales. sales. sales. sales.

Kindly secure your reservation by December 1st.Kindly secure your reservation by December 1st.Kindly secure your reservation by December 1st.Kindly secure your reservation by December 1st.

Do you decorate for Christmas with wreaths and greenery?

Then consider placing an order with the Messiah youth group for your 2014 Christmas wreaths and greenery. Proceeds will go towards the Middle School Gathering, Summer Service Project, and future youth

service projects. Order forms are available on the youth bulletin board or from any teen. Orders must be turned in by Sunday November 16th.

Greenery will be delivered during the first week of December.

12” Candle Ring (candle not included) for $25 _____

20” Deluxe Wreath with Bow $30 _______

20” Advent Wreath $30 _________

22” Deluxe Wreath with Bow $32 _______

26” Deluxe Wreath with Bow $36 _______

22” Rustic Wreath $32 ______

26” Rustic Wreath $36 _____

28” Cross Wreath $36 _____

28” Door Swag with Bow $28 _______

15ft Cedar Garland $32____

Would you like to give a wreath as a gift for someone who lives out of town? Would someone out of town like to buy from us? You can still help

us! Log onto http://www.alpinefarms.com/shop/ and click Shop. Order what-ever item you like, send it wherever you like and when it is time to input billing information credit our group under Fundraiser Group Code with

the sale by typing in MEFL (for Messiah Florida). A portion of that sale will then benefit our youth group (online pricing is higher and profits are

smaller so we prefer you order from us, but this is a great opportunity for out of state family to be involved or to give a special gift to someone that

will also benefit us). Thanks for your support!

THANKSGIVING DAY WORSHIP ~ We invite you to pause on our National Day of Thanksgiving and offer worship, praise and gratitude to our Gracious Lord God. The service is at 9:00 a.m. Dress is casual, we know it’s a busy day. But do join your family at Messiah to sing hymns of thanksgiving in celebration of all the physical and spiritual blessings our generous God has bestowed on us. Our Thanksgiving Day offering will be designated to support the work of our Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Epidemics & Infectious Diseases Response Fund. Gifts given will go to areas affected by the spread of Ebola. Disaster Response is committed to providing food supplies and other essentials, particularly for people who can’t get to their work-places to make a living. They also offer sanitation and cleaning supplies to households as a preventive measure and are engaging with Lutheran congregations and schools to edu-cate people on how Ebola is spread and contained. Food will also be provided to Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, in remote areas where basic supplies are not available. Our generous offering on Thanksgiving will help those struggling with their basic everyday needs.

PRESCHOOL NEWS

November is a special month at our preschool as we will be talking with the children about the many blessings we receive and teaching them about the first Thanksgiving. We will also be celebrating Thanksgiving

in our classrooms with our own special feasts.

We wish to thank the congregation for helping make our recent fundraising ac-tivities so successful. We appreciate the donations of books for our Used Book Sale and everyone who purchased books and Enjoy the City Coupon Books. With the help of matching funds from Thrivent Financial the preschool raised close to $2,000 from these fundraising events! Your support is greatly appreciated as all money raised will be used to purchase educational materials and programs for our preschoolers.

We currently have some openings in our three year old program. For more infor-mation or a tour of the facilities call Director Jody Schweichler at 813 968-9534.

Our next school board meeting will be November 3rd at 1:00 P.M. Any questions call Jerry Hansen at 813 622-9661. Thank you.

Have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving

“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them,

for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”

Messiah Lutheran Church Tampa, Florida

Nomination of Pastor for Consideration

Instructions: Members who wish to suggest a name of a pastor to be considered for our Call List are asked to complete this form so the Call Committee has some information on the pastor and why they were nominated. Return completed forms to the church office. All nomination forms will be for-warded to the District President. Be sure to sign it, otherwise it will not be recognized as valid. You may submit more than one name; however, use a separate form for each pastor. Nominations will be accepted October 1 through the congregational meeting on November 2, 2014. Only pas-tors of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod will be considered.

Having carefully and prayerfully considered the pastoral needs of our congregation, I wish to nominate the following pastor as a Candidate to be considered for a Call to Messiah Lutheran Church. Name of Pastor: Address: Address or Church Name City State Zip I believe he will meet our needs for the following reasons:

☐ I know him personally. How/where do you know him?

How long known?

☐ I DO NOT know him personally. Source of your information?

Signature: “I will raise up shepherds over them who will shepherd them, and they shall not fear any longer or be dismayed, nor shall any be missing, says the Lord.” (Jeremiah 23:4 NRSV)

Attention Youth! Looking for something to do dur-

ing Thanksgiving break? Check Out These Events!

Join us when you’re off of school on Monday November 24th at

9:45AM for a special service project with Metropolitan Ministries.

Wear your closed toed shoes and get ready to help with

the Tent Event. We will be busy sorting and packing gro-

ceries that will be given to families in need for Thanksgiv-

ing. The project will go from 10:45-2PM. We’ll grab some

lunch after our shift and return to Messiah around 4PM. If

you want to attend but can’t meet us at the designated

time because of working parents, talk to Abby and we

can coordinate a pick up. We can take 15 middle school

and high school youth and we need at least 3 adults. Sign

up if you can help. We have to turn names and numbers in ahead

of time. The deadline to sign up is Sunday November 9th.

All Youth (grades 5-12) Celebrate your week off of

school for Thanksgiving break by joining us for

Grand Prix Racing Night Tuesday November 25!

Meet at Grand Prix at 7PM. Cost is $20/person.

Grand Prix is located at 14320 N. Nebraska Ave.

Grand Prix requires an attendance

number ahead of time so you must

sign-up to attend. If we don’t meet

the minimum requirement of 10 by

November 16th we will have to can-

cel. Sign-up today! Our event will go

from 7-9PM. Parents, we need several

chaperones for this event. Talk to

Abby Moss if you can help. *Let us know if cost is an issue, we don’t want anyone to not

be able to attend because of cost. *

Thanks to everyone for their help with the Fall Festival on Sun-day October 26th. Thanks to Lorraine Eden for coordinating trunks, and the Confirmation class and youth for running the

games and activities. Thanks to Outreach for doing registration and Assimilation and Social Ministry for handling food. This event was truly an all hands on deck event! Thanks for your

help! We couldn’t have done it without you.

Middle School Gathering!

If you registered to attend the Middle School District Gather-ing (Grades 6-8) the retreat is November 7-9. We will depart from Messiah at 5:15PM on Friday the 7th, and stop for dinner on the road. We will return to Messiah on Sunday November 9th~1PM (we will stop for lunch on the way home). Talk to Abby Moss or Mr. Paul Dworkin with questions. Packing lists were emailed out several weeks ago. Let us know if you need a list.

Would you like to help?

Messiah is challenged to bring unwrapped new toys for

the Toys for Tots Service Project at the Middle School

Gathering. If you would like to contribute, bring a new

unwrapped toy and place it under the Youth Bulletin

Board. Any toy donations will be added

to what we provide and taken and given

out at the Middle School Gathering.

Thanks for getting involved!

Playgroup will not meet November 24 as school is not

in session.

A prayer for your personal witness outreach in 2014:

Lord, lay some soul upon my heart,

And love that soul through me;

And may I nobly do my part

To win that soul for Thee.

~ Tucker

2014 God’s Creation Calendars 2014 God’s Creation Calendars 2014 God’s Creation Calendars 2014 God’s Creation Calendars

We still have a few calendars left. Get them while supplies last. Cost is $7.00 each.

See or contact Abby or any youth group member to purchase.

They make great Christmas gifts. Proceeds raised will benefit Youth Group programs.

Call Committee Update Congregational Meeting: On Sunday, November 2, at about 12:15 pm, a congregational meeting will be held in the Ministry Center. The purpose of the meeting is to 1) accept and close the list of pastor nominees, and 2) approve the congregation’s priorities for the pas-tor. Please join us for this important meeting as we move a step closer to calling a pastor. Call Process Update: Following the congregational meeting on November 2, the Congre-gation Self-Study and list of pastors submitted by members will be forwarded to the District, where information will be gathered on each pastor. Once we receive this information from District, the Call Committee will begin the process of reviewing all pastors’ qualifications in light of the established priorities, and conduct interviews. Congregation Self-Study: The Board of Directors of the Florida-Georgia District has asked churches calling a pastor to complete a “congregation self-study” document. This document is designed to assist the district president in understanding the church, its situa-tion, needs, and ministry. A copy of this document is available in the church office if you wish to review it. While not secret, it is sensitive and we ask that it not be copied or re-moved from the office. Pastor Priorities: Based on priorities identified in surveys and forums conducted by the Call Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee, the Call Committee has established priorities we feel the pastor should focus on in his ministry. This document will be approved on November 2 at the congregation meeting. It is available on the church website on the Call Committee tab. Qualification for our Pastor: Messiah’s constitution requires that any pastor serving our congregation must “profess acceptance of, and pledge faithful adherence to, the confes-sion of this congregation” (Art. VI). Those confessions include the “books of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired and revealed word of God” and the “Symbolical Books contained in the Book of Concord of the Year 1580”. (Art. II) The pastor must also be a member of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. (Art. III).

Prayer Requests: Please continue to keep the Call Committee, our Vacancy Pastor Rev. Dr. Dennis Goff, the new Pastor, and the call process in your prayers, and for the Holy Spirit’s continued guidance. Please remember our Minister of Family Life, Abby Moss, as she takes on many additional duties. May our Father’s will be done. Call Committee: Please contact any member if you have questions or concerns. You may also send a message through Messiah’s website, under the Call Commit-tee tab. Committee members are: Joel Mathews, John Dufresne, Claudia Bohren, Mike Mekelburg, Sherri Irwin, Walt Halfmann, Wayne Jackson, Sandi Windsor, and Abby Moss.

Youth Sunday Afternoon Open Gym & Youth NightYouth Sunday Afternoon Open Gym & Youth NightYouth Sunday Afternoon Open Gym & Youth NightYouth Sunday Afternoon Open Gym & Youth Night For youth grades 5For youth grades 5For youth grades 5For youth grades 5----12 12 12 12 ----Sundays from 4pmSundays from 4pmSundays from 4pmSundays from 4pm----6pm ~ 6pm ~ 6pm ~ 6pm ~

We begin with a short devotion. Parents we need your help as chaperones ,we especially need help on the 3rd.we especially need help on the 3rd.we especially need help on the 3rd.we especially need help on the 3rd. Open Gym dates for November are 2, 9, 16, & 30

No Open Gym November 23 because of the Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner. Consider having your whole family join us at 5:30pm for dinner instead!

NEW!NEW!NEW!NEW! Senior High, we ’ ve heard your desire for a time change, & we are expanding! Senior High, we ’ ve heard your desire for a time change, & we are expanding! Senior High, we ’ ve heard your desire for a time change, & we are expanding! Senior High, we ’ ve heard your desire for a time change, & we are expanding! Introducing the 2nd Sunday of the Month Introducing the 2nd Sunday of the Month Introducing the 2nd Sunday of the Month Introducing the 2nd Sunday of the Month Senior High Only Night! Senior High Only Night! Senior High Only Night! Senior High Only Night! Lets get to-

gether on Sunday the 9th at 6:30PM at Messiah for food and fellowship. Bring a salad, side dish, or dessert to share, main course/drinks provided!

We will still offer a 4th Sunday of the month off site event, we are just adding to it!

Senior High, the 4th Sunday of the Month Senior High, the 4th Sunday of the Month Senior High, the 4th Sunday of the Month Senior High, the 4th Sunday of the Month Senior High Only Night Senior High Only Night Senior High Only Night Senior High Only Night will be will be will be will be replaced this month by the Prereplaced this month by the Prereplaced this month by the Prereplaced this month by the Pre----Thanksgiving Dinner on the 23rd.Thanksgiving Dinner on the 23rd.Thanksgiving Dinner on the 23rd.Thanksgiving Dinner on the 23rd.

Invite your whole family to join us at 5:30PM on Sunday November 23rd in the Ministry Center. Sign up to attend.

Lets enjoy some food and fellowship all together with our whole church family.

From Abby… (Not to be confused with Dear Abby,) “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your

bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and

proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed

by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what

God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2

At the start of last month I was able to attend the FL/GA District all church workers conference or President’s Convocation in Orlando. This was the theme verse, focusing on renewal, from the inside out. It seems like such a simple concept, but as in many things, I need to be hit in the head with it before I get it. Rest and renewal is not external, it comes from the internal, it comes from

God’s Word.

During the last few months of transition at Messiah rest and renewal has been more difficult to come by. Maybe you feel the same way?! Maybe the weight of the school year and all the

activities is taking a toll on you. Maybe in an unstable economy you find yourself working twice as hard in order to make sure your job is secure. Maybe someone in your family is facing illness or you are caring for an aging parent, and the stress is getting to you. I know for me the stretch of year from Labor Day weekend until Thanksgiving can often seem like the longest time frame all

year.

I have often tried with no avail to rest and recharge and get a handle on stress. I have tried to sleep more, eat better, cut caffeine, read a self help book, or work out more (all good things) but none of it seems to help. Then this verse. These are the world’s answers for how to rest and re-charge, these are not the answers that provide long term sustenance. God’s Word and Prayer is

what truly makes the difference. In our weakness, we find strength in Him.

I had a doctrine profession in college who used to quote Martin Luther who said, “If I fail to

spend two hours in prayer each morning, the devil gets the victory through the day. I have so

much business I cannot get on without spending three hours daily in prayer.” I’m not saying spend three hours in prayer (that would be awesome though) but the point is there. When God is first all else falls into place and has the proper perspective. On days we are most overwhelmed, we must cast our cares on Him. Psalm 46 is a great Psalm (look it up). Verse 10 says, “’Be still,

and know that I am God.’” This isn’t easy but it is when we are still and know that He is in con-trol, that our problems seem less overwhelming. It is when we see His will more clearly. It is

where we find the strength for another day or another trial. It is where true hope, not as the world gives, can be found.

This month, as we focus on Thanksgiving, may we reject what the world has to offer but allow

God to renew our hearts and minds by showing us His Will. May we find rest and renewal in the quiet moments of devotion and prayer. May we seek His perfect will for our lives and Be Still.

Messiah Lutheran Sunday School

2014-2015 List of Teachers and Helpers:

Adults: Mark Lemke

Nursery: Lorraine Eden

Preschool/Kindergarten: Cathy Minardi & Jackie Burnett

1st - 5th Grade: Ministry Center, Abby Moss, Jeff Bohren, Meghann & Marc

Thacker, Jim & Shirley Doerr and others

3rd & 4th & 5th & Grade: Paul Dworkin

Substitutes: Pat Harding, Bill Reimers

Secretary: Kathy Larson

6th, 7th & 8th Grade: Paul Dworkin (MC Room 204)

Superintendent: Ernest Munzen

High School: Volunteer Needed

Adults: Book of Concord with Ernest Munzen

November brings the Fall season to a peak with Thanksgiving Din-ner being the highlight for many families. For Christians, it is a time to come to God and thank Him for His many blessing and His boun-tious provision. Parents can concentrate on family devotions that teach how God is our Provider. A good verse to memorize is Psalm 145:15:

“The eyes of all look expectantly to You, and You give them their

food in due season.”

LIVE curriculum helps get your kids to actually read their Bibles... strengthen their Bible skills...and learn key Bible truths. Its large group/small group format is perfect for Sunday School. Group’s LIVE Children’s Curriculum is all about helping kids grow their friend-ships with Jesus. As they experience the Scriptures and do the activities, they’re building that relationship in a real and relevant way. With LIVE Children’s Curriculum, kids get into the Bible and the Bible gets into kids! And you’ll get into the Bible, too. Every week kids will explore God’s Word in large groups and small groups called Bible Crews. Worship and prayer will be responses to what they’ve learned.