a congrega tion of the evangelical lutheran church in america · pdf filea congrega tion of...

M e s s i a h L u t h e r a n C h u r c hA CONGREGATION OF THE

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Lutherans and Music

Looking forward to Valentinersquos Day Messiah will host an afternoonof classical music on Sunday February 12 at 400 pm featuringmusic from the Romantic era ndash Sonatas for Violin and Piano byJohannes Brahms and Gabriel Faureacute Our performers will beRussian violinist Larisa Elisha accompanied by Karla Rocker onpiano Both on are on the music faculty at Georgia Southern Awine and chocolate reception in the Narthex will follow theconcert

Of course music from the Romantic era isnrsquot directly about all things cupids and heartsWikipedia describes Romantic Music as having these qualities

bull a new preoccupation with and surrender to Naturebull a fascination with the past particularly the Middle Ages and legends of

medieval chivalrybull a turn towards the mystic and supernatural both religious and merely spookybull a longing for the infinitebull mysterious connotations of remoteness the unusual and fabulous the

strange and surprisingbull focus on the nocturnal the ghostly the frightful and terrifyingbull fantastic seeing and spiritual experiencesbull a new attention given to national identitybull emphasis on extreme subjectivismbull interest in the autobiographicalbull discontent with musical formulas and conventions

How blessed are we to be a part of a church that features such fine music I hope you canjoin us on Sunday February 12 for a time of music and fellowship

MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH OF SKIDAWAY ISLAND1 WEST RIDGE ROAD SAVANNAH GA 31411

The Rev Jason W Talsness Cell (770) 570-7407 E-mail skidawaypastorjgmailcomOffice Telephone (912) 598-1188 Office FAX (912) 598-1339E-MAIL messiahskgmailcom WEB wwwmessiahsiorg

Mission Statement

We a community of Christrsquos disciples empowered by the Holy Spiritcommit to grow in faith obey Godrsquos Word and encourage others toshare the joy of discipleship We strive to do this by praying invitinggiving serving studying encouraging and worshiping

February2017

MLC Newsletter ~ February 2017 ~ Page 2

MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH

PRESENTS

ldquoRomantic ExpressionsrdquoSonatas for Violin amp Piano by

Johannes Brahms and Gabriel Faureacute

Sunday February 12 2017 at 4 pm

Featuring Russian violinist Larisa Elisha ~ internationallyacclaimed soloist chamber musician and pedagogue

Accompanied by Karla Rocker Piano

Wine amp Chocolate Reception followingFree will donations appreciated

Not all Christians appreciate music in the way Lutherans have and do There are someChristian communities that say the only instrument to be used in worship is the humanvoice Others allow only the instruments mentioned in the Bible in the worship serviceLutherans have long embraced the western canon of music mostly due to our history

Luther and Music

Because this year is the 500th anniversary of the Reformation over thecourse of 2017 we frequently will have an eye toward Martin Luther(1483-1548) the church reformer whose understanding of Christianitygreatly shaped our own

Martin Luther loved music Besides being a priest and academictheologian he was a musician and a composer He once wrote ldquoNext to theWord of God the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the worldrdquo

The first factor in his love of music was that music was a vehicle for the Word of God Insinging and in listening when we experience the Word of God in music we areexperiencing the means of grace When reforming worship Luther championed the role ofthe laity singing in worship Singing was for everyone not just the priests and the choirwhich was the predominant practice in the churches in Europe at that time

The second factor in Lutherrsquos love of music was that it lifts onersquos spirits Luther often wroteabout how when he was down music lifted him out of melancholy This experience madehim a champion of all kinds of music not just sacred This was contrary to other reformersof Lutherrsquos day who took a more restrictive stance on the role of music in the church (seeJohn Calvin Ulrich Zwingli)

We are part of a marvelous musical heritage The next time yoursquore at church for worshipor a concert notice the impact music has on your soul and say a prayer of thanks for thegift of music

Sing to the LORD a new song sing to the LORD all the earth Psalm 96

In His Love

_ Pastor Jason Talsness


dagger Prayers of support Katherine Marshall her husband and the family andfriends of Katherinersquos father Charles W Boehringer 90 of Adamstown PAwho died on January 20 2017dagger Prayers of support for Argerie Martin her family and the friends of BillMartin who died on December 9 2016dagger Prayers of healing for our members friends and relatives undergoingspecial care and treatment Swede Anderson Carr Baldwin AlindaBorsani (Babettersquos sister) Cole and Elliot (twin sons born prematurely inSeptember to Meaghan Andrews (Tim Andrewsrsquo daughter) and her husbandRob Springer) Levi Ingvalson (Lana amp Eric Gilsterrsquos four year oldgrandnephew who has leukemia and is undergoing chemotherapy) AnneDobra (sister-in-law of Pattye amp Clarke Field) Lauren Townsend FulkChristine Kumagai Bridget (Shirley amp Phil Nackrsquos granddaughter) JudyNord Claire Schaet (Don Schaetrsquos daughter) Linda Shadel (LynnMcLauchlanrsquos sister-in-law) Bob Sears Jan Stinson (Greg Stinsonrsquos cousin)Marguerite Weisemann and Chuck Wood (Kathy Fritzrsquos father)

Ministry Members Save these Dates for Meetings next Month (March)

Sunday March 12 at 430 pm Worship amp Music MinistryTuesday March 14 at 530 pm Evangelism MinistrySaturday March 25 at 900 am Caring Card MinistryTuesday March 28 at 1030 am Staff SupportMutual Ministry

February Announcements

Copies of the February issue of THE LUTHERAN the official news magazine of theEvangelical Lutheran Church in America as well as DAILY DEVOTIONAL BOOKLETS for the1st quarter of 2017 are available on the table in the entrance foyer of the sanctuary Alsoa limited number of LARGE PRINT devotionals are available

CERTAIN SCHEDULED MEETINGS amp EVENTS IN FEBRUARYlt Birthday Sunday is February 12 If your birthday is this month be sure to come to

church on the 12th so that we can celebrate your birthlt Craft n Gab will get together on Saturday February 4 at 930 amlt Confirmation Classes will be held at 100 pm on February 5 then 200 pm on the

following Sundayslt Womenrsquos Monday Morning Bible Study will meet on all Mondays in February at

930 am in the conference roomlt Menrsquos Breakfast amp Bible Study will meet each Wednesday in February at 800 am

in the card room at the Marshwood Club in The Landingslt Outreach Ministry is working on setting a meeting day and time in Februarylt Evangelism Ministry will meet at 530 pm on Thursday February 16lt Worship amp Music Ministry will meet at 400 pm on Sunday February 19lt Eucharistic minister training will be held at 300 pm on Tuesday February 21 in

the conference roomlt Church Council will meet at 530 pm on Tuesday February 21lt Evangelismrsquos Caring Card Ministry will meet at 900 am on Saturday February 25lt Staff SupportMutual Ministry will meet at 1030 am on Tuesday February 28

PLEASE REMEMBER IN PRAYER OUR SISTERS AND BROTHERS


Romantic Expressions ~ Sonatas for Violin amp Piano

Let yourself slip classically into a Valentinersquos Dayrsquos frame of mind by attending a superbconcert featuring Sonatas for Violin and Piano by Johannes Brahms and Gabriel FaureacuteEnchanting us with this music will be Russian violinist Larisa Elisha accompanied by KarlaRocker on piano The concert will be at 400 pm on Sunday February 12 2017 atMessiah Lutheran Church There will be an informal reception of wine and chocolate()after the concert

Dr Elisha is an internationally acclaimed soloist chamber musicianand pedagogue having performed and taught extensively throughoutEurope and the United States She was Concertmaster of the WitoldLutoslawski State Philharmonic Principal Violinist of the LeopoldinumChamber Orchestra and Artistic Director and First Violinist of theWratislavia String Quartet She was Professor of Violin Chamber Musicand Pedagogy at the K Lipinski Academy of Music in Wroclaw PolandShe has performed at the Concertgebouw Warsaw NationalPhilharmonic and Karajan Hall of the Berlin Philharmonie and hasmade numerous CD radio and television recordings

In the United States Dr Elisha was Violin Artist-in-Residence at Washburn University andConcertmaster of the Topeka Symphony Orchestra As Concertmaster of the Wichita GrandOpera she performed featured solos with Luciano Pavarotti Placido Domingo and JoyceDiDonato Continuing the tradition of Russian violinist David Oistrakh she holds Bachelorrsquosand Masterrsquos degrees from the State Conservatory of Belarus in Minsk where she was astudent and Teaching Assistant of Professor Olga Parkhomienko one of Oistrakhrsquos notedproteacutegeacutes Larisa Elisha earned her Doctorate degree at the K Lipinski Academy of Musicin Wroclaw Currently she is the Violin Viola Chamber Music Professor and Director ofUpper Strings Studies at Georgia Southern University

Accompanying Dr Elisha on piano will be Karla Rocker who joined theGeorgia Southern University faculty as Coordinator of Collaborative Pianoin the fall of 2002 after completing her doctorate in piano accompanyingand chamber music at Florida State University under the direction of DrCarolyn Bridger A native Texan Dr Rocker holds a degree in pianoperformance from New Mexico State University and the Master of Musicdegree in Piano Accompanying from Arizona State University Aftercompleting the masterrsquos degree Dr Rocker worked at West Texas AampMUniversity as the staff accompanist for the opera and choral programs

The concert is free but contributions will be gratefully accepted to help defray costs


The Coastal Cluster of the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA invites you to

Race The Power of An IllusionA Workshop

Saturday February 25 2017900 am ndash 300 pm

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church41 Main Street Garden City

A time of conversation about racism and how we as a Churchcan begin to recognize racism and act for justice in our nation

The Anti-racism team from the synod led by Cathy Crimi will present a film ldquoRace ThePower of an Illusionrdquo with opportunities for discussion in small and large groups MessiahLutheran would like to have at least five members attend

Morning refreshments will be provided but participants are asked to either bring their ownbrown-bag lunch or $10 for the cost of a light lunch This should be a thought provokingworkshop so to attend please sign up on the sheet posted on the kiosk in the NarthexPlease indicate whether you will bring your own lunch or will pay $10 for a light lunch

More from our Southeastern Synod

One of the newest ministries of the Southeastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Churchin America (ELCA) is the Southeastern Synod Advocacy Team As members of the ELCAwe believe that we are freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor God uses our handsthrough our direct service work and our voices through our advocacy efforts to restoreand reconcile our world Through faithful advocacy the ELCA lives out our Lutheran beliefthat governments can help advance the common good

ELCA advocacy works for change in public policy based on the experience of Lutheranministries programs and projects around the world and in communities across the UnitedStates We work through political channels on behalf of the following biblical valuespeacemaking hospitality to strangers care for creation and concern for people living inpoverty and struggling with hunger and disease

For more information please visit wwwelca-sesorg


Envelopes for 2017 are set out ona table in the Narthex

PLEASE take yours and make lifeever so much easier forour bookkeeper

MondayFebruary 20

Parkinsonrsquos Support GroupA Parkinsonrsquos support group meets the 4th Wednesday of eachmonth at 300 pm at the Skidaway Island United Methodistchurch

Skidaway Island Chapter of AlcoholicsThis group has meetings on Mondays Tuesdays Thursday and Saturdays at 730am at Skidaway Island Methodist Church Meetings on Wednesdays and Fridays areat 730 am at St Peterrsquos Episcopal Church

Stroke Support GroupThis group of survivors meets to encourage each other on the 3rd Thursday of eachmonth from 400 to 500 pm at Messiah Lutheran Caregivers also are welcomeFor more information please call Messiah member Shirley Nack (598-7047)

Savannah Essential Tremor Support GroupThis group meets the 1st Thursday of each month (except during July and August)from 300 pm to 430 pm at the Lewis Cancer amp Research Pavilion at StJosephCandler on Paulsen Street For more information please contact Messiahmember Gerry Quirk (598-8174)

On January 7 our ownFayha Polite auditioned forG e o r g i a A l l S t a t eOrchestra and passed theaudition She was the onlystring player in Chatham

County to make it into the All-State Orchestra Fayha willplay cello on March 4 with the All-State Middle SchoolOrchestra in Athens Congratulations Fayha


Diane BoydDirector

NOTES FROM

THE CHORAL DIRECTORMary Maner

Februaryrsquos Rehearsal Schedule

Menrsquos ChorusWednesday February 1 at 630 pmWednesday February 15 at 630 pm

Chancel ChoirEach Wednesday at 700 pm

Womenrsquos Choir and Youth ChoirEach Sunday after worship at 1005 am

Come join a choir share your talents andenjoy the joy of Christian fellowship

FebruaryrsquosRehearsal ScheduleBrass Plus will meet at900 am on all Saturdaysin February

Childrenrsquos Choir willresume on SundayFebruary 19 during theSunday School hourWe will meet in thelibrary See you then

Joy Olson


Each Wednesday at 545 pmEach Saturday (except Febr 11 amp 25) at 1000 am

Men amp Women of Messiah If you are interested in playinghandbells please call or text Diane Boyd at (912) 414-5972Wersquod love to have you join this fun group


News from the Christian Education MinistryBarbara Tinker Chairman

Confirmation Classes will be held at100 pm on February 5 then200 pm on the following Sundays

Youth Sunday School (6th gradendashhigh school) led by Steve Derr willmeet in the back hall classroom each Sunday in February They areusing the Lutheran Traditions curriculum from Augsburg Fortress

Christian Itrsquos Not What You Think

You are invited to join us for an 8-part series that will explore howJesus wanted his followers to live The words used to describeChristians today often bear little resemblance to what Jesus wanted hisfollowers to be known for We will use short 15 minute thought DVDsegments from Andy Stanleyrsquos provoking messages We will haveample time to delve into the questions in the study guide Barb Tinker

is the engaging facilitator for this study that continues on February 5 12 and 26 andMarch 5 and 12 (see following article for what happens on February 19) Please enjoy 20minutes of fellowship and then join us Sundays at 1020 in the conference room

Preparation for Lent

There are many varying traditions and practices around the season of Lent including thoseldquogiving up thingsrdquo for Lent otherwise known as a fast (from sugar technology meat etc)Pastor Talsness will lead a one-session discussion on how Christians can deepen their faiththrough Lenten practices taking place as a part of Adult Sunday School after worship onSunday February 19 Lent begins on Ash Wednesday which is March 1 this year All arewelcome

The Menrsquos Breakfast amp Bible Study will meet each Wednesday inFebruary at 800 am in the card room at the Marshwood Club in TheLandings

NOTE Please let Pastor Jason know if you plan to attend so thataccurate reservations may be made You donrsquot need to be a member ofThe Landings Club to attend and have breakfast Also off-island menmay contact Pastor Jason for a gate passamp Bible Study


Join the Monday morning Womenrsquos Bible Study for thefollowing three weeks when Pastor Jason will be doing astudy on ldquoJesus in the Gospelsrdquo This study was introducedin Sunday School and if you did not attend then you haveanother opportunity to learn more about our Savior

When this study is concluded we will proceed with theseven-week Kerygma study entitled ldquoGalatians and Jamesrdquo

This study will introduce us to the major themes of the epistle and also will introduce usto Paul the Galatians the false teachers the Roman world and the Jewish concept ofTorah We then will have four weeks of James which raises many questions one beingwhether the author is the brother of Jesus

Join us on Monday mornings at 930 in the Conference Room For more informationplease talk to Argerie Martin (598-8211 martinw720aolcom)

Calling All Children

On Sunday February 26 the children are invited to stay after SundaySchool for an afternoon of scenery painting and preparations for LentWe will need the help of some parents We will have lunch at thechurch More information will follow

News from the Parish Life Ministry

Donrsquot forget to sign up to co-host the Sunday MorningCoffeeTeaLemonadeWater Hour If yoursquove never done it pleaseconsider doing so soon The sign-up sheet is posted on the kiosk in theNarthex The morning is much better when we have fellowshiptogether

To church on Sundays To Menrsquos or Womenrsquos Bible Study To otherevents at church Maybe you arenrsquot driving any more ndash or not at nightndash or just donrsquot feel up to driving The Parish Life Ministry has theanswer for you It has a Transportation Committee (a subcommitteeof the Sonshine Committee) on call to help even on a limited basis todoctor appointments and for errands Members of the committee arePam Allen Milda Blaney Mary and Fred Buck Andrea Felkins Lynnettaand Verne Hartson Virginia and Ken Hylander Diane Munroe Shirleyand Phil Nack Tammy and Gerry Quirk Dave Ridberg Barb Tinker and Linda Turk Tobook a ride contact Pam Allen (Home 598-9746 cell 663-7235 e-mailallenprcomcastnet)

MLC Newsletter ~ February 2017 ~ 0

This ongoing group of crafty gabbers will gettogether on Saturday February 4 from 930 ndash100 They do some crafting but mostly theyenjoy each otherrsquos company Everyone iswelcome Bring a ldquoprojectrdquo and come join inthe ldquogabbingrdquo For more information talk toArgerie Martin Connie Squibb or Joy Olson

Craft

lsquon

Gab

ldquoSonshinerdquo Committee at Messiaha part of Parish Life Ministry

What does the committee do

We provide care for Messiah members who are in need ofsupport by preparing and delivering meals to those who arenew parents to those who are recovering from injuryillness or hospitalization or to those who have lost amember of their immediate family

For church members who are incapacitated we typicallyprovide meals for one to two weeks until the family can make long-term arrangements ifnecessary We also can run errands if needed

For new parents we usually take a meal after mom and baby have returned home

For a family that has lost a loved one we offer a meal at their home for the family andperhaps overnight guests who have arrived for the funeral or memorial service

How does the committee work

The pastor or a member of the congregation notifies the coordinator of a need Thecoordinator contacts the family of the person(s) in need to offer help and to schedule mealsandor errands Then the coordinator e-mails committee members asking for volunteersto fill the needs

Sometimes one member will offer to prepare an entire meal More often members havethe choice of preparing a main dish a salad and bread or a dessert Committee membersthen deliver the dishes to the homes of those we are serving

How do I become a member of the ldquoSonshinerdquo Committee

We currently have approximately 20 members on this committee The more members thebetter If you are interested or have questions contact Andrea Felkins (912-598-2801 orahfelkinsgmailcom)

Andrea Felkins CoordinatorSonshine Committee


LETrsquoS EAT The first Progressive Dinner for 2017

WHAT is a progressive dinner you ask It is a fun way to sharefellowship and get to know other members over dinner with eachcourse served at a different location and mixed with differentpeople

The DATE Saturday February 25 Sign up as a single or a couple (and yes you may bringfriends if you sign them up What a great way to introduce them to Messiah)

The HELP Please consider opening your home to host a course for this event No placeis too big or too small Wersquore adjustable Recipes are available if needed

bull Main course ndash a chicken dish at the choice of the hosthostessbull Appetizer course ndash a couple of simple appetizersbull Dessert at the church

The Cost Bring a winebeer of choice if you wish unless otherwise directed by the host

The SIGN-UP Starts Sunday February 5 and ends February 16 This is a first come firstserved basis The maximum number of participants is dependent on the number of peoplewilling to host As Christ ate with his disciples so shall we have fellowship and eat Nomatter how big or small wersquore doing this

The MISC bull Yes you can call the church office to get your name on the listbull If you are vegan or have food allergies please let us know and we will work to

make everyone welcomebull Do you have children but canrsquot get a sitter Let us know

Looking forward to getting to know you better over dinner If you have questions pleasecalle-mailor just ask Peggy Pearson (598-5238 parkpearaolcom)

Save the Dates

Wednesday March 1 Ash WednesdaySunday April 16 EasterSaturday March 11 Donut and Coffee Sale for Flea MarketThursday May 4 National Day of Prayer


NewsContributed by

Tom OlsonPresident

News from the Property MinistryTim Andrews Chairman

Here and There Around the Church

The replacement of the roof is complete The next item on the listis removal of trees toppled or damaged during Hurricane Matthew

Eucharistic Ministers Training

Twice a month members of Messiah bring communion to members intheir homes or the hospital This ministry has been such a success thatwe need to expand our pool of ministers

All those interested in receiving instruction in how to be a Eucharistic minister are invitedto a one-hour training session on Tuesday February 21 at 300 pm in the conferenceroom You will learn the process of how we bring communion to someone in a hospital orhome Written resources will be provided If after the class you choose to participate youwill be paired with an experienced Eucharistic minister for a visit Please indicate yourinterest by signing up on the sheet posted on the kiosk For further information pleasecontact Jan Hazel or Pastor Talsness

This yearrsquos Council is looking forward to a new year that already has beenbuilt through the great work of last yearrsquos Council and establishedcommittees for Strategic Planning and the Capital Campaign TheStrategic Planning process has developed strengthening and growthpossibilities for the next three to five years And of course the CapitalCampaign has provided a very positive direction over the next three yearsMessiah Lutheran truly has been blessed With our blessings we willhopefully continue to provide blessings to our members to our guests andvisitors and blessings to those we meet through outreach

As we begin the new year Church Council is having a ldquoRetreatrdquo onFebruary 4 to allow us time to discuss items that the regular monthlymeetings donrsquot always allow time for

One of the main discussion items will be the Strategic Plan recently provided by theStrategic Planning Committee At the January Council Meeting John Duren and severalof the committee members (Corinne Samuels Ken Hylander and Frank Camizzi) presentedtheir document of the Strategic Plan Councilrsquos reaction to the document was very positiveWe want to be able to present the Strategic Plan to the congregation so we can have yourvote of approval to proceed forward After the retreat we should be able to start sharingwith the Congregation We look forward to serving our congregation

Peace and blessings to all


News from the Worship amp Music MinistryTom Olson Chairman

This should be a wonderful worship year for Messiah Lutheran Thisyear is the 500th Anniversary of Martin Lutherrsquos impact on theReformation Throughout the year we hope to share the history of theReformation through worship songs Bible Study the LentenWednesday 4-D (dinner drama discussion dessert) Look forward tothese opportunities and donrsquot be surprised if you are asked toparticipate is some manner

We also have started ldquothe hymn of the monthrdquo We want to add share and teach hymnsto the congregation that they may not know Music is a great way to share messages andthoughts of faith

The Worship and Music Ministry will be starting to work with the Strategic Plan developedthis past year by the Strategic Planning Committee led by John Duren The Strategic Planprovides interesting Action Items intended to help Messiah Lutheran strengthen and growAs we work with the Strategic Plan you will be introduced to new andor expanded worshipideas As the year goes on wersquoll share with the congregation new programs ideas andthoughts

Throughout the year the Worship and Music Ministry is open to any comments or questionsfrom Messiah Lutheran members Any of the members of the Ministry are open to thesecomments and questionsPastor Jason Tom Olson Diane Boyd Mary Maner Joy OlsonConnie Squibb and Janet Reardon

God bless you all

Hymn of the Month ndash February

My Life Flows on in Endless Song (763) is our Hymn of the Month for February You willhear it each week within the service ldquoThe peace of Christ makes fresh my heart afountain ever springing All things are mine since I am his How can I keep from singingrdquo

A Prayer for Every Day All Year Long

When it comes to prayer there is no shortage of things people and situations to includein prayerful conversations with God Sometimes it helps to have a little prompting areminder of special concerns or causes for thanksgiving that might otherwise slip by usThe ELCArsquos Prayer Ventures offers such prayer prompts for every day

Prayer Ventures are daily suggestions for prayer that can be used for personal prayer timeadapted for use in worship or shared with members Posted for download a month inadvance at wwwELCAorgenResourcesPrayer-Ventures they include concerns of thechurch and world and ministries to remember in prayer Itrsquos free and fresh each month

SOURCE seeds for the parish


From our Photo Album

Ladies Epiphany Tea January 7

January 8

Pastor Talsness installed new Councilmembers Linda Jacla and Barbara Tinker andTreasurer Parker PearsonNot shown Steve Allen and George Lawrence


Pastor Jason with Birthday Honorees (left to right) John Duren Jane Maulbetsch PatCummiskey Greg Stinson Pam Allen Pattye Field Khoa Nguyen and Ken McLauchlan

January 22


Messiah Lutheran ChurchStatement of Income and Expenses for January 1 ndash December 31 2016

Steve Allen Finance Ministry Chairman

Income

Offerings

InterestBuilding Use

Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments

bull The above is an unaudited statement of the operating fund of Messiah Lutheran

Complete 2016 financials that will include a complete balance sheet and other

funds statements will be presented once the audit committee completes its audit

of 2016

bull On January 15 2016 our total mortgage balance was $1405859 As of

December 31 2016 the balance was $1290687 This balance consists of

$746293 for the sanctuary and $544394 for the fellowship hall

wwwMessiahsiorg


Highlights from Church Councilrsquos Meeting on January 17 2017

Please note the following highlights have been taken from the draftminutes that will be presented for approval at Councilrsquos February 2017 meeting

bull Pastorrsquos Report Pastor Jason reported the followinglt Luther Seminary (wwwluthersemedugodpause) offers an e-mail devotional with

about 18000 subscribers Pastor has been asked to write a weekrsquos worth ofdevotions due in March to be published in May

lt The Southeastern Synod of ELCA annual convention which includes worshipworkshops and meetings will be in Chattanooga TN May 26-28 We expect to sendtwo lay representatives as well as Pastor Talsness Please contact Pastor if youknow of someone or you would like to attend (church covers expenses)

lt Visitations Home - 6 Hospital - 5 and Outings - 1bull Outreach Ministry Report

lt Sandy Schmoll reported that the ministry members are recovering from a busyNovember and December She advised Council that Steve Derr is retiring this yearso a new contact will need to be established with CGCA (Love Thy Neighbor) Theministry will be supporting the Crop Walk in April

lt Crop Walk Lynn McLauchlan reported that this yearrsquos Crop Walk will be on April 30She asked that all Council members participate in some way (walking or monetarily)Other churches will be asked to participate in this event

bull Parish Life Ministry Report Lynn McLauchlan reported on the followinglt Messiah Directory Final copy of individual membership information is completed and

Tim Andrews will merge the member data and photos to be submitted to thepublishing company

lt Fellowship Dinners Not as many people are participating as in years past TomOlson said that Norrita Thorne and Lana Gilster are willing to organize Lynn willmeet with them to give them advice on setting up

bull Finance Ministry Report Steve Allen Chair and Parker Pearson Treasurerlt They distributed a Balance Sheet and an Analysis of Revenues and Expenses

Questions were presented regarding DesignatedMemorial Gifts and Sea Island Bank(Operating Budget) accounts As a matter of time President Olson suggested thatSteve and Parker cover these questions in more detail at the Council Retreat onFebruary 4 2017

bull Property Ministry Report Tim Andrews reported that he will do a walk through of ourgrounds for lawn sprinkler etc damages and determine who will be responsible for thecosts involved in repair Rot repair will begin soon He will meet with St PeterrsquosEpiscopal Church to discuss the trees downed from Hurricane Matthew and responsibilityfor cost of removal Tim will get a bid from Cunningham Tree Service He also will getbids for cleaning floors pew seats and carpeting The shed has been cleaned out

bull Stewardship Ministry Report George Lawrence reported that we have 58 pledgestotaling $389234 for 2017 (Budget $405500) There were 62 pledges last year buta lesser dollar amount Time and Talent sheets will be coordinated by the ChurchSecretary and given to appropriate Ministry chairs

bull Worship amp Music Ministry Report Tom Olson reported several items includinglt Christmas Eve Service There is concern about the substantial amount of candle wax

dripped on the pews at the Christmas Eve service Church volunteers have cleanedthe pews Next year a pre-service meeting will be held with ushers acolytes andreaders to be sure they understand format and layout of service


This is Christrsquos church There is a place for you here

We are the church that shares a living daring confidence in Godrsquos grace Liberatedby our faith we embrace you as a whole person mdash questions complexities and allJoin us as we do Godrsquos work in Christrsquos name for the life of the world

SOURCE wwwELCAorg

lt 500th Anniversary of the Reformation The ministry is planning the format signageand advertising for the celebration

bull Unfinished Businesslt Strategic Planning A report was presented by Chair John Duren and Committee

members Frank Camizzi Ken Hylander Corrine Samuels Layne Rabold (not present)and Pastor Talsness More than 100 surveys were completed and almost 100members participated in one or more focus group meetings From this informationthe committee created the Strategic Plan with five specific key objectives Detailedcharts were created with Objectives Goals and Plans with the key objectivesindicating Action Owner Timing Resources needed and Measurements Throughthis plan it is believed that the actions defined will cause Messiah to better serve theneeds of our community They also created a new Mission Statement based on theMember Survey results as follows

ldquoIn the name of Jesus welcome everyone growin Faith support One Another and serve Othersrdquo

Council members recognized the countless hours spent on this project andcomplimented the committee on the resulting Strategic Plan John will make apresentation to all members (paper copies of the Plan will also be available) WayneFell Director of Evangelical Mission will be at Messiah on January 24 at 930 amThe team will review this plan with him and have invited Council members to attendTim Andrews made a motion ldquoto approve the Strategic Plan to be presented to MIFand Synodrdquo The MOTION was seconded and passed

lt Three Year Capital Campaign Steve Allen reported that to date there are 77 pledgestotaling $695076 As of January 17 2017 $94000 has been received As anexample for distribution purposes for every $4 received $3 will go towardFellowship Hall mortgage reduction and $1 to Capital Improvement Pledges havebeen made in various ways ie one time weekly monthly and 1 2 and 3 yearperiods If amounts pledged are all received in three years the Fellowship Hallmortgage could be paid off A separate checking account has been established forthe Capital Campaign The following MOTION regarding the Finance Ministryrsquosaction was read by the Council Secretary seconded and passed

The Property portion of the campaign will be $150000 We will earmark$50000 of the collections for each of the three years totaling $150000 at theend of three years towards the building maintenance reserve to be used forunbudgeted building needs The remainder of the funds collected will be usedagainst the mortgage balance of the Fellowship Hall A check will be sentmonthly to the MIF from these remaining funds

VOLUNTEERS FOR FEBRUARY 2017

SUNDAYS FRONT DOORGREETERS

EVANGELISMGREETERS

USHERS READERS COMMUNION ASSISTANTS

ACOLYTES

February 5Holy Communion

Norrita amp Jerry Thorne Carol amp John Duren Mary amp Fred BuckJane Maulbetsch amp Pat Cummiskey

Pat Cummiskey Pat CooperChristine Lind

A Lyric OlsonC Fayha Polite

February 12 Shirley amp Phil Nack Linda JaclaRon Maner

Cheryl amp Frank LiebgottNorrita amp Jerry Thorne

Lynnetta Hartson A Fayha Polite


Jane Maulbetsch amp Pat Cummiskey

Mac OliverLayne Rabold

Lynnetta amp Verne HartsonPeggy amp Parker Pearson

Steve Derr Diane MunroeSandy Schmoll

A Ana TalsnessC Peter Talsness

February 26 Lynnetta amp Verne Hartson Peggy PearsonConnie Squibb

Milda amp Terry BlaneyDiana amp Geoff Wilson

John Duren A Fayha Polite

SUNDAYS COFFEE HOUR FLOWERS NURSERY AUDIO-VISUAL

OFFICEHELPERS(Fridays)

February 3Lynnetta Hartson

February 10Char Ramshaw

February 17Cheryl Liebgott

February 24Marcie Perry

ETERNAL CANDLE

Terri amp Terry Breyman

ALTAR GUILD

Lynnetta Hartsonamp Norrita Thorne

EUCHARISTICMINISTERS

February 5Pat Cooper amp John

February 19Lana Gilster amp Ron Maner

February 5 Pat CummiskeyLinda Jacla

1 Peggy amp Parker Pearson2 Sandy Clarke

Shirley Nack Peter Talsness

February 12Birthday Sunday

Pattye FieldCheryl Liebgott (cake)

1 Andrea amp Robert Felkins2 Norrita amp Jerry Thorne

Barb Tinker Ken McLauchlan

February 19 Linda JaclaConnie Squibb

1 Argerie Martin2 Mary amp Fred Buck

Ann Green Frank Liebgott

February 26 Jeff SamuelsEthel Baldwin

1 Cathie amp Kirk Barefoot2 Diane Munroe

LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews

Messiah Lutheran Church of Skidaway Island1 West Ridge RoadSavannah GA 31411

MESSI A H LU T H E R A N CH UR C H - A ST EP H E N MI N I S T R Y CO N G R EG A TI O N

CHURCH COUNCIL

Tim Andrews Property Ministry Chair timandrews1114comcastnetSteve Allen Finance Ministry Chair StevenHAllengmailcomLynnetta Hartson Staff SupportMutual Ministry Chair lhartsoncomcastnetLinda Jacla Evangelism Ministry Chair ljaclagmailcomGeorge Lawrence Stewardship Ministry Chair mppgglcomporiumnetTom Olson Worship amp Music Ministry Chair TolsonkernengineeringcomSandy Schmoll Outreach Ministry Chair savsandycomcastnetBarbara Tinker Christian Education Ministry Chair tinkerbarbaragmailcomJason Talsness Pastor skidawaypastorjgmailcom Cell phone (770) 570-7407

CHURCH OFFICERS (Jan 1 ndash Dec 31 2017)Tom Olson PresidentTim Andrews Vice PresidentLynnetta Hartson Recording SecretaryParker Pearson Treasurer

CHURCH STAFF

Jason Talsness PastorMary Maner Choral DirectorDiane Boyd Church OrganistCynthia Sharpley Church Secretary (Hrs MonndashFri 2-5 pm)Barbara Roush Church Bookkeeper (Hrs Tues mornings)

Help Keep Our Records CurrentHave you changed your e-mail address Moved Have a new mailing address New homeor cell telephone number New work telephone number Please share updates with thechurch office by calling 598-1188 or e-mailing MessiahSkgmailcom

Newsletter production by Parish Life Ministry

MLC Newsletter ~ February 2017 ~

MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH

PRESENTS

ldquoRomantic ExpressionsrdquoSonatas for Violin amp Piano by

Johannes Brahms and Gabriel Faureacute

Sunday February 12 2017 at 4 pm

Featuring Russian violinist Larisa Elisha ~ internationallyacclaimed soloist chamber musician and pedagogue

Accompanied by Karla Rocker Piano

Wine amp Chocolate Reception followingFree will donations appreciated

Not all Christians appreciate music in the way Lutherans have and do There are someChristian communities that say the only instrument to be used in worship is the humanvoice Others allow only the instruments mentioned in the Bible in the worship serviceLutherans have long embraced the western canon of music mostly due to our history

Luther and Music

Because this year is the 500th anniversary of the Reformation over thecourse of 2017 we frequently will have an eye toward Martin Luther(1483-1548) the church reformer whose understanding of Christianitygreatly shaped our own

Martin Luther loved music Besides being a priest and academictheologian he was a musician and a composer He once wrote ldquoNext to theWord of God the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the worldrdquo

The first factor in his love of music was that music was a vehicle for the Word of God Insinging and in listening when we experience the Word of God in music we areexperiencing the means of grace When reforming worship Luther championed the role ofthe laity singing in worship Singing was for everyone not just the priests and the choirwhich was the predominant practice in the churches in Europe at that time

The second factor in Lutherrsquos love of music was that it lifts onersquos spirits Luther often wroteabout how when he was down music lifted him out of melancholy This experience madehim a champion of all kinds of music not just sacred This was contrary to other reformersof Lutherrsquos day who took a more restrictive stance on the role of music in the church (seeJohn Calvin Ulrich Zwingli)

We are part of a marvelous musical heritage The next time yoursquore at church for worshipor a concert notice the impact music has on your soul and say a prayer of thanks for thegift of music

Sing to the LORD a new song sing to the LORD all the earth Psalm 96

In His Love

_ Pastor Jason Talsness




































MondayFebruary 20








Diane BoydDirector

NOTES FROM









Joy Olson



























Craft

lsquon

Gab
























Save the Dates



NewsContributed by

Tom OlsonPresident

















God bless you all










January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF







































MondayFebruary 20








Diane BoydDirector

NOTES FROM









Joy Olson



























Craft

lsquon

Gab
























Save the Dates



NewsContributed by

Tom OlsonPresident

















God bless you all










January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF





Diane BoydDirector

NOTES FROM









Joy Olson



























Craft

lsquon

Gab
























Save the Dates



NewsContributed by

Tom OlsonPresident

















God bless you all










January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF



























Craft

lsquon

Gab
























Save the Dates



NewsContributed by

Tom OlsonPresident

















God bless you all










January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF















Save the Dates



NewsContributed by

Tom OlsonPresident

















God bless you all










January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF





NewsContributed by

Tom OlsonPresident

















God bless you all










January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF










God bless you all










January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF







January 8




January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF






January 22




Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF







Income

Offerings


Total Income

Expenses

PastorStaff

Administration

Mortgage

Property

Ministries

Total Expenses

Net Income (Loss)

Actual

$416530

2496

$419026

$184177

20809

107500

62562

7779

$382827

$36199

Budget

$403000

0

$403000

$178328

26400

108000

75000

11800

$399528

$3472

Over (Under)

$13503

2496

$16026

$ 5849

(5591)

(500)

(12438)

(4021)

($16701)

$32727

Memo December

2015 YTD Actuals

$429423

3113

$432536

$182589

13669

102000

61302

11008

$370568

$61968

Comments




of 2016




wwwMessiahsiorg






















SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF

























SOURCE wwwELCAorg










EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF






EVANGELISMGREETERS


ACOLYTES























ETERNAL CANDLE


ALTAR GUILD

















LynnTownsend

Tim Andrews



CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF






CHURCH COUNCIL



CHURCH STAFF




a congrega tion of the evangelical lutheran church in america · pdf filea congrega tion of...

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