the third sunday in advent december 11, 2011 as we...

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1 Advent Services at 8:30am & 6:30pm December 14, 2011 3K – 2 nd grade Now to December 12, 2011 “Visit to the Manger” December 18, 2011 Dedication of new church December 16-17, 2011 Living Nativity 6:00 – 8:00pm March 23 24, 2012 Women’s Getaway “Holy, Chosen, Treasured” at the Osthoff Resort As We Gather “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever!” (Hebrews 13:8) This fact has resounded throughout pages of history. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God who led Israel out of Egypt, the God who became flesh – Jesus Christ – is the same God we worship and serve today. Throughout Grace’s history, its ministry has been shaped by people – people who are working to do the Lord’s work. From its humble beginning in back room to the blessing of our new sanctuary on Cross View Way, the same Lord has been Lord of the church, using His people to do His work. Times of transition and change are hard, but one thing will never change: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” The Third Sunday in Advent December 11, 2011

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Advent Services at 8:30am & 6:30pm December 14, 2011 3K – 2nd grade

Now to December 12, 2011 “Visit to the Manger”

December 18, 2011 Dedication of new church

December 16-17, 2011 Living Nativity 6:00 – 8:00pm

March 23 – 24, 2012 Women’s Getaway “Holy, Chosen, Treasured” at the Osthoff Resort

As We Gather “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever!” (Hebrews 13:8) This fact has resounded throughout pages of history. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God who led Israel out of Egypt, the God who became flesh – Jesus Christ – is the same God we worship and serve today.

Throughout Grace’s history, its ministry has been shaped by people – people who are working to do the Lord’s work. From its humble beginning in back room to the blessing of our new sanctuary on Cross View Way, the same Lord has been Lord of the church, using His people to do His work. Times of transition and change are hard, but one thing will never change: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

The Third Sunday in Advent December 11, 2011

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Staff and elected Leaders of Grace Ev. Lutheran Church and School

Church Staff Rev. Robert Goodwin

Senior Pastor

Rev. Joel Howard Associate Pastor

Rev. Aaron Kuehn Associate Pastor

Rev. Warren A. Granke Pastor Emeritus

Mrs. Marlene Anderson Deaconess

Mr. William Cahill Minister of Music

Ms. Michelle Wenzel Assistant Minister of Music

Mrs. Carol Bird Business Manager

Mrs. Barbara Baas Mrs. Donna Hein

Secretaries

Mr. Dan Gettelmann Facilities Manager

School Staff

Elected Leadership John Jaeckel

President 262/255-2179 Charlie Kinas Vice President 262/628-8306

Michael Lessila Treasurer

262/478-7296 Patrick Foran

Elder 262/251-3771

Board of Directors Dave Maaske 262/251-4350 Gail Krajewski 262/255-7484 Larry Polahar 262/628-3183

Christine Palmert 414/559-4905

Mrs. Sharon Laabs, Principal Mrs. Melissa Flynn, 8th grade

Mrs. Amanda Rosenberg, 7th grade Mrs. Joy Yurk, 6th grade

Mrs. Joann Mueller, 5th grade Miss Nicole Steffan, 4th grade

Mrs. Tracy Parker, 3rd grade & Assistant Principal Mrs. Heather Culli, 2nd grade (AM)

Mrs. Cheryl Eggold, 2nd grade (PM) & Reading Specialist Mrs. Amy Scott, 2nd grade

Mrs. Amanda Schneider, 1st grade Mrs. Kimberly Knuppenburg, 5K

Ms. Gloria Strehlow, 4K Mrs. Jenny Winkelmann, 3K Mrs. Deanna Kellerman, 3K

Mrs. Gretchen Mauritz, Mrs. Kim Stiller, Mrs. Jill Jelinski, Teacher’s Aides

Mrs. Jennifer Robichaud, Athletic Director

Mrs. Mie Neumann, Administrative Assistant Mrs. Carol Bird, Mrs. Wiersma, Mrs. Vesche,

Mrs. Miller, Mrs. Stiller, Mrs. Busalacchi Extended Care

Rejoice worship offers a

contemporary liturgical form using a wide variety of Christian music.

The Traditional Service uses a liturgical format from The Lutheran Service Book

Holy Communion is celebrated at various services during the weekend.

Worship Services Thursday Traditional Worship 6:30 PM Saturday Rejoice Worship 5:00 PM Sunday Traditional Worship 8:00 AM

Rejoice Worship 9:30AM Rejoice Worship 11:00AM J.A.M. (Sunday School) 9:30AM Adult Bible Study 9:30AM

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DIVINE SERVICE SETTING ONE

The Lutheran Service Book page 151 THURSDAY AND 8:00AM SUNDAY

Greeting/Announcements Come, Thou Almighty King Please use the hymnals found in the pews. LSB 905

Invocation L In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. C Amen.

Confession and Absolution L If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. C But if we confess our sins, God, who is faithful and just, will forgive our sins and

cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Silence for reflection on God's Word and for self-examination.

L Let us then confess our sins to God our Father. C Most merciful God, we confess that we are by nature sinful and unclean. We have

sinned against You in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done and by what we have left undone. We have not loved You with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We justly deserve Your present and eternal punishment. For the sake of Your Son, Jesus Christ, have mercy on us. Forgive us, renew us, and lead us, so that we may delight in Your will and walk in Your ways to the glory of Your holy name. Amen.

L Speaks the Absolution C Amen.

Introit

Kyrie p. 152 L In peace let us pray to the Lord. C /sung/ Lord, have mercy. L For the peace from above and for our salvation let us pray to the Lord. C /sung/ Lord, have mercy. L For the peace of the whole world, for the well-being of the Church of God, and for the

unity of all let us pray to the Lord. C /sung/ Lord, have mercy. L For this holy house and for all who offer here their worship and praise let us pray to the

Lord. C /sung/ Lord, have mercy. L Help, save, comfort, and defend us, gracious Lord. C /sung/ Amen.

Gloria in Excelsis L Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. C /sung/ Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father:

We worship You, we give You thanks, we praise You for Your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God:

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You take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us. You are seated at the right hand of the Father; receive our prayer. For You alone are the Holy One, You alone are the Lord, You alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Salutation and Collect of the Day L The Lord be with you. C /sung/ And also with you. L Let us pray. … one God, now and forever. C /sung/ Amen.

Old Testament Reading Isaiah 55:10-11 10 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

L: This is the Word of the Lord. C: Thanks be to God. Epistle Reading Hebrews 13:8 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

L: This is the Word of the Lord. C: Thanks be to God.

Holy Gospel Matthew 28:18-20 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

L: This is the Gospel of the Lord. C: Thanks be to God.

The Apostles’ Creed Please see the inside back cover of the hymnal. Beautiful Savior Please use the hymnals found in the pews. LSB 537 Sermon (Thursday) “Yesterday, Today, and Forever” Pastor Aaron Kuehn (Sunday) “Yesterday, Today, and Forever” Pastor Warren A. Granke

Offering Special Music (8:00) “It is Well” Grace Choir

We Give Thee But Thine Own Please use the hymnals found in the pews. LSB 781 vs. 1, 2, 6 Prayer of the Church

Here special intercessions are made, each ending with; L: LORD in Your mercy; C: Hear our prayer.

L: Into Your hands we commend all for whom we pray trusting in Your gracious and holy will. Lord, remember us in Your kingdom and teach us to pray.

All: The Lord’s Prayer

Benediction

Go, My Children, with My Blessing Please use the hymnals found in the pews. LSB 922 sts. 1–4

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REJOICE WORSHIP SATURDAY, SUNDAY 9:30 & 11:00AM

Pre/Service Music Please use the screen to sing with the Praise Team. “My Life is in You, Lord”

Greeting/Announcements

Invocation L: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. C: Amen. Opening Songs “Come Now is the time to Worship” Chorus Come now is the time to worship

Come now is the time to give your heart Come just as you are to worship Come just as you are before your God Come

One day every tongue Will confess You are God One day every knee will bow Still the greatest treasure remains for those Who will receive You now (Chorus) (Verse 2X)

Come now is the time to worship Come now is the time to give your heart Come just as you are to worship Come just as you are before your God Come, come, come CCLI song #2430948 CCLI License No. 815263

“Mighty Is Our God” Mighty is our God. Mighty is our King. Mighty is our Lord, Ruler of ev'rything. Glory to our God. Glory to our King. Glory to our Lord, Ruler of ev'rything.

His name is higher, Higher than any other name. His pow'r is greater for He has created ev'rything. (Repeat from beginning then repeat first stanza) CCLI Song #60867 © 1989 Integrity's Hosanna! Music (c/o Integrity Music, Inc.) CCLI License No. 815263 We Confess Our Sins L: Let us confess our sins to God our Father. C: I, a poor sinner, plead guilty before God of all sins. I have lived as if God did not matter and as

if I mattered most. I have not honored my Lord's name as I should; my worship and prayers

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have faltered. I have not let His love live in me, and so my love for others has failed. There are those whom I have hurt, and those whom I have failed to help. My thoughts and desires have been stained with sin. I am sorry for all of this and ask for grace that I may amend my sinful life.

L: Almighty God in His mercy has given His Son to die for you and for His sake forgives you all your sins. As a called and ordained servant of Christ, and by His authority, I therefore forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit.

C: Amen.

Readers: (Sat) Pat Foran; (9:30) Dawn Liker; (11:00) Charlie Hargan Old Testament Reading Isaiah 55:10-11 See page 4 in the bulletin New Testament Lesson Hebrews 13:8 See page 4 in the bulletin Gospel Lesson Matthew 28:18-20 See page 4 in the bulletin The Apostles’ Creed

Offering “Blessed Be Your Name”

Blessed be Your name Prince of Peace, Emmanuel God’s only Son, on earth to dwell blessed be your name. Blessed be Your name Everlasting. Great I Am Holy Babe of Bethlehem blessed be Your name. Ev’ry blessing You pour out I’ll turn back to praise. When the darkness closes in Lord, still will I say:

CHORUS Blessed be the name of the Lord, blessed be Your name. Blessed be the name of the Lord, blessed be Your glorious name.

Blessed be Your name Wonderful Counselor Messiah, Jesus, Lord of Lords, blessed be Your name. Blessed be Your name Glory to the newborn King Let all of Your creation Sing, blessed be Your name. Ev’ry blessing You pour out I’ll turn back to praise. When the darkness closes in Lord, still will I say: CHORUS 2X

You came on Christmas Day, All sin to take away. My heart will choose to say, “Lord, blessed be Your name!” (repeat then repeat chorus 2X) A Time of Prayer

Here special intercessions are made, each ending with; L: LORD in Your mercy; C: Hear our prayer.

L: Into Your hands we commend all for whom we pray trusting in Your gracious and holy will. Lord, remember us in Your kingdom and teach us to pray.

The Lord's Prayer Words Of Institution

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Songs During Communion “Amazing Grace – My Chains are Gone”

Amazing Grace How sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me I once was lost, but now I'm found Was blind, but now I see

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear And grace my fears relieved How precious did that grace appear The hour I first believed

CHORUS My chains are gone I've been set free My God, my Savior has ransomed me And like a flood His mercy reigns Unending love, amazing grace

The Lord has promised good to me His word my hope secures He will my shield and portion be As long as life endures CHORUS

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow, the sun forbear to shine. But God who called me here below, will be forever mine, Will be forever mine, You are forever mine. CCLI #4768151 © 2006 worshipt oget her .com songs (Admin. by EMI Chris t ian Music Publishi ng) sixsteps Music (A dmi n. by EMI Christ ian Music Publishi ng) Vamos Publishing (Admin. by EMI Christ ian Music Publi shing) CCLI License No. 815263

“Above All” Above all powers, above all kings, Above all nature and all created things. Above all wisdom and all the ways of man, You were here before the world began.

Above all kingdoms, above all thrones, Above all wonders the world has ever known. Above all wealth and treasures of the earth, There's no way to measure what You're worth.

Crucified, laid behind a stone, You lived to die, rejected and alone. Like a rose trampled on the ground, You took the fall and thought of me, above all. (Repeat from beginning)

Like a rose trampled on the ground, You took the fall and thought of me, above all. 26 72 8 85 19 99 In t e gr it y 's Ho s an n a! Mu s ic Len So n gs Pu b l is h in g CCLI License No. 815263

“Draw Me Close” Draw me close to You Never let me go, I lay it all down again, To hear You say That I'm Your friend.

You are my desire, No one else will do, 'Cause nothing else Could take Your place. To feel the warmth Of Your embrace Help me find the way, Bring me back to You.

You're all I want, You're all I've ever needed. You're all I want, Help me know You are near. CCLI Song #1459484 © 1994 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing (Admin. by Music Services) CCLI License No. 815263

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Dismissal Blessing/ Prayer of Thanksgiving Message Song

“I Love You, Lord” I love You, Lord, and I lift my voice To worship You, O my soul rejoice. Take joy my King in what you hear, May it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear. CCLI #25266 © 1978, 1980 House of Mercy (Maranatha! Music [Admin. By Music Services]) CCLI License No. 815263

Message “Yesterday, Today, and Forever” Pastor Warren A. Granke The Closing Prayer and Blessing C: Amen.

The Closing Song “Yesterday, Today and Forever” Everlasting God The years go by but You're unchanging In this fragile world You are the only firm foundation Always loving always true Always merciful and good So good

Chorus Yesterday today and forever You are the same You never change Yesterday today and forever You are faithful and we will trust in You We will trust in You

Uncreated One You have no end and no beginning Earthly powers fade But there is no end to Your kingdom Always loving always true Always merciful and good So good

Chorus 2x then sing: We will trust in You We will trust in You

Post-service (Sat. & 9:30) “Yesterday, Today and Forever” (11:00) “In Christ Alone”

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Concerning The Lord’s Supper

Out of love, our Savior Jesus Christ invites all of His followers to receive what only He can give: His own body and blood in, with, and under the bread and wine. It was His body and blood, broken and shed on the cross for us, that gives us what He promises, the forgiveness of sins and strength for our faith. In the Lord’s Supper we receive His body and blood in faith, trusting in His Word and promises.

The Lord’s Supper is both intimately personal and at the same time a public proclamation. We are united with our Savior as we receive the sacrament and united with one another as together we join in this shared meal. As we partake of the sacrament together, we give testimony not only to our faith in Jesus but to our unity of faith and bond of Christian fellowship.

If you wish to partake of the Lord’s Supper at Grace, please be guided by your response to these questions:

Do you believe that you are a sinner and in need of the forgiveness offered by Christ in the Lord’s Supper?

Do you believe that Christ’s body and blood are truly present in, with, and under the bread and wine even as Christ promised?

Do you believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, as taught at Grace Ev. Lutheran Church and, by your participation in the sacrament, give testimony to the faith we share?

Before communing for the first time at Grace, you are asked to please speak with one of the pastors. God’s richest blessings to all who come to His table!

Important Information for Those Wishing to Attend The Lord’s Supper

Children are welcomed at the Lord’s Table to receive a blessing, but should not partake of the Sacrament prior to Confirmation.

At the Thursday evening and Sunday 8:00AM services, when coming forward to receive the Sacrament at the altar, please kneel when welcomed to the Lord’s Table. The bread will be placed in your hand and you may choose to receive the wine either by individual cup or by common cup. It is helpful when receiving the common cup to guide the cup with your hand. Upon receiving the blessing, please stand and return to your pew via the side aisle. When you have returned to your pew, it is appropriate to say a short prayer before continuing with worship.

At the Saturday evening, Sunday 9:30 and 11:00AM services, ushers will usher everyone forward. The bread will be distributed by the Elder or Pastor first. You can choose the common cup or individual cup. If you prefer the individual cup, move to the Elder passing out the individual cups. Deposit the cup in the baskets at the front of the Pulpit or Lectern and then return to your seat. There will be a continuous procession forward and back to your seat.

Upcoming Messages

December 18 Pastor Rob Goodwin December 25 Pastor Joel Howard

December 29, 31, January 1 Pastor Aaron Kuehn

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SSeerrvviinngg iinn tthhee LLoorrdd’’ss HHoouussee This Week December 8-11, 2011

Thursday, 6:30pm Saturday, 5:00pm Sunday, 8:00am Sunday, 9:30am Sunday, 11:00am Preacher Pastor Aaron Kuehn Pastor Warren A. Granke Pastor Warren A. Granke Pastor Warren A. Granke Pastor Warren A. Granke Liturgist Pastor Aaron Kuehn Pastor Rob Goodwin Pastor Goodwin, Pastor Kuehn Pastor Goodwin, Pastor Howard Pastors Goodwin, Howard, Kuehn Readers Pat Foran Dawn Liker Charlie Hargan Organist Delores Jobe Delores Jobe

Special Music Grace Choir Elders Mark Kastens Pat Foran, Bob Huettner Ed Hilgendorf, Nick Gierach Jon Schumacher, Dennis Schmit,

Ed Hilgendorf, Nick Gierach Kevin Breckenfelder, Mark

Kastens, Jon Schumacher, Dennis Schmit

Usher Teams 4A 3A3 4 5 5A A/V Alex Parker Lorraine Hagedorn Lauren Nitsche Keith Kagerbauer

Altar Circle Karen Kingsbury, Wendy Picard Susan Sutherland, Heidi Farrell Greeters Steve & Patti Marsch Charlie Kinas Linda Guillot & Carol Lemberger Sandy Heckler Bob & Joanne Burgardt

Next Week December 18, 2011 – Dedication Service No Other Services Sunday, 10:00am

Preacher Pastor Rob Goodwin Liturgist Pastors Joel Howard & Aaron Kuehn Organist Bill Cahill, Michelle Goetzke

Special Music Grace Choir, Handbell Choir, Flute Choir, Grace School Students, JAM, Youth Praise, Grace Praise Team Usher Teams 6, 6A, 8, 8A

Acolytes Greeters Chuck & Cindy Knade, Kent & Donna Hein, Karl & Kristin Knorr, Doug & Lori LeClair, Jim & Gayle Pfeil

December Activities * Denotes Communion Service

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 11 8:00 AM Traditional Worship * 9:30 AM Rejoice Service * 9:30 AM JAM 11:00 AM Rejoice Service *

12 6:30 PM Knitting 6:30 PM PTL Meeting

13 7:00 PM Volleyball 7:30 PM Grace Choir

14 8:30 AM Advent Service 5:00 PM Confirmation 6:30 PM Advent Service 6:30 PM Stephen Ministry 7:00 PM Handbell Choir 8:00 PM Men's Basketball

15 3:00 PM Student Council Christmas Fun & Games 6:30 PM Mom to Mom No Worship Service 7:30 PM Praise Team Practice

16 3:00 PM 2nd Grade Brownies 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Living Nativity

17 No Worship Service 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Living Nativity

18 9:00 start at Kenwood Blvd.; 10:00 Church Dedication Service at Cross View Way 5:00 PM Junior Youth 7:00 PM Senior Youth

19 20 8:00 AM Sewing 6:00 PM Board of Elders & Trustees 7:00 PM Volleyball 7:30 PM Board of Directors 7:30 PM Grace Choir

21 8:30 AM chapel 3:00 PM Daisies 5:00 PM Confirmation 6:00 PM Boy Scouts Meeting 7:00 PM Handbell Choir 8:00 PM Men's Basketball

22 9:30 AM Play and Pray No Worship Service 7:30 PM Praise Team Practice Christmas Break begins

23 2410:00 AM Rejoice Family service w/HC 12:00 PM Rejoice Family Service w/HC 2:00 PM Rejoice Family Service w/HC 4:00 PM Traditional Family Service 6:30 PM Traditional Family Service w/HC 11:00 PM Candlelight

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Go to our website www.grace-connect.org for church and school information, calendar, weekly bulletin, and much more.

Please call the Church Office

Office hours are Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm

when you have a new baby to be included in the prayer.

when you or a family member are entering the hospital.

if you have a prayer request for the Prayer Chain or for worship services.

This Week

Please remember to pick up a prayer list each week to use in your daily devotions. They can be found on the information wall in the narthex.

Join us for coffee, treats, and fellowship after the 8:00 & 9:30am services in the kitchen/fellowship hall. Thanks to the Youth Groups for serving us today.

Flowers are the Altar will given by Charles & Susan Riesenberg in honor of their 40th wedding anniversary (12/11); Brian & Laura Schloesser in honor of their son, Austin’s 21st birthday.

Advent Services continue 3K – 2nd grades on December 14. Everyone is welcome to attend either service at 8:30am or 6:30pm.

Cross Processional This weekend, December 11th at noon (after the 11:00 service) we will be taking the cross down from the front of the church and processing it to our new location at Cross View Way. We will be securing the cross on the back of a truck and driving it to the new church. We invite you to be a part of this processional. The procession will be followed by a short prayer service after bringing the cross into the new church. Please note: we have been reminded that we need to obey traffic laws along the way – including stop lights and stop signs. Pick up route directions with a map from the table in the narthex. If you have any questions, please contact one of the pastors. We are excited to celebrate the moving of the cross together!

Please pick up your 2012 offering envelopes in the Fellowship Hall. Please do not use them until January.

Christmas Stockings should have been returned by this weekend. If you did not bring it, please call Debbie Davis, 262-502-0199.

Special Announcements

Announcements for the weekly bulletin are due on Monday by email to [email protected], by phone or a note dropped off at the church office.

Giving Opportunity As we approach the dedication service, there have been some interest and queries if there are any items needed for the new church that individuals could make a specific donation towards. The answer is yes! There are many items that we are looking for donations to help fund. If this is something that interests you, please contact one of the pastors to review the list of the items, opportunities and dollars needed. It is truly a blessing to have such a generous family here at Grace.

There will not be Public School Confirmation classes on December 28th.

The Living Nativity will take place at the Cross View location on Friday & Saturday, December 16 & 17. Performances will be every half hour from 6:00 – 8:00pm. Cookies are needed and help is needed to help serve the hot chocolate and cookies. Please bring the cookies to the new church by Friday, December 16th and call the church office if you can help.

Scrip News - Due to School Christmas Break, orders for the week of December 19th will be ready for pick up at the Church Office (Cross View Way) on Thursday, December 22. Please call the office for hours. 262-251-0670. Due to the Scrip Company holiday closings and

Dedication Service set for December 18, 2011 Our final Sunday services at the Kenwood sanctuary are this weekend. During these services we will celebrate the ministry that God has done among and through us in that church home, looking back at the blessings of the many years of ministry in Christ’s name. It is a special weekend of celebration with Pastor Emeritus Warren Granke returning to preach. At the end of the 11:00am service, the cross in the sanctuary will be removed and processed out of the building to its new home on Cross View Way.

The celebration of God’s ministry here at Grace will continue in our new sanctuary on Cross View Way with a dedication service on December 18th. This day will begin with a small prayer service at the Kenwood sanctuary beginning at 9:00am. Following this service, at 10:00am we will begin our dedication of the new sanctuary with a procession into the new building on Cross View Way. This dedication service will be the only service held during that weekend.

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School Christmas break, we will not be submitting orders for the weeks of December 26 & January 2. Orders will resume the week of January 9th. Please plan accordingly.

Fruitcakes for sale the MLHS Ladies Guild is once again selling fruitcakes for $9. Call Karen Eurich, 251-2485 to order.

The ladies of Stitching by Grace have been busy preparing for Christmas and the cold months ahead. They have made 12 Christmas quilts, 106 pairs of mittens and 55 caps all which will be given to needy families this Christmas. They are on display in the Narthex.

Christmas is just around the corner. Beat the crowds at the mall and stock up on cookbooks for gifts for everyone on your Christmas list. We have plenty of cookbooks in stock! They are in the office on weekdays or on Sundays you will find someone by the door between 9AM and 11AM. The cost is $20 and the proceeds go to Grace’s music program

Cookbook Corrections Please make a note of the following corrections in your book and pass them on to those you may have given one to. p 218 JAMBALAYA – 15 oz. chicken stock not 32

oz. p.132, EASY BEEF BURGUNDY -- ½ soup can

burgundy wine p.132, SHERRIED BEEF -- Bake 1 hour covered

and 3 hours uncovered. p.142, SLOW COOKER LASAGNA -- 1 (6 oz.) can

tomato paste p.344, BLACK FOREST DESSERT -- 1 (8 oz.) tub

Cool Whip p.256, FRED’S BIRTHDAY BARS -- 1 ½ c.

graham cracker crumbs (instead of 2 c.)

Entertainment Books are awaiting your purchase at $35 each. Books can be used through Nov 2012. Hundreds and hundreds of buy one/get one free or 50% off offers.

FPU is back for a new session. Sign up for the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace

University class that will be offered from 5:00 to7:00 PM on Sunday evenings starting January 15. This 13 week series of 2 hour, video-based classes is for adults of all ages, single or married, who want to learn how to bring more financial peace and stability to their lives. Anyone who has taken the class before is encouraged to come back as they work through the baby steps and need a refresher. If you have taken the class before there is no charge if you bring your materials with you.

Class Cost: The first lesson is free. All you need to do is register to attend. If you want to continue, the cost is $100 for materials. A couple needs only one set of materials. If there is enough interest in childcare we will attempt to hire a sitter. There may be a cost to you for this. Please let us know the number of children that will need care. For information contact Marge or Bryan Buchholz, (262-628-8847) or Doug LeClair, (414-331-8652), or go to www.daveramsey.com.

Thank you to everyone who has made a commitment and to those making donations to the Extending His Reach Capital Stewardship Campaign. Total Commitments $1,487,050.00 Total Contributions to date $1,214,510.61

Our Serving Ministry at Grace Identifying, equipping and releasing people to do ministry.

Placing the right people in the right places for the right reasons at the right time. When this occurs, the results transform a congregation and change lives.

As we prepare to move to our new worship center on Q, additional help is needed in many ways. We want to go 'above and beyond' to serve. We will need: Greeters It’s a fun, simple but very important task to

greet our worshipers with a warm smile and handshake. You may be the first impression someone has when they come to Grace! Sunday morning childcare Adults and junior and

senior high students are needed. Your turn would come up once every 4-6 weeks. You provide a great service so that parents can attend worship. Coffee hosts Our new serving area is located in the

narthex and we want to provide a warm and welcoming area for conversation and fellowship.

Contact Deaconess Marlene with the service and times that best fit your schedule for any of these serving opportunities.

For questions or to learn more about serving opportunities, contact the person coordinating that ministry or Deaconess Marlene Anderson. We look forward to hearing from you!

Stephen Ministry

“It has been nice to have someone to talk to in order to help me sort things out. I had been so lost in my situation that I didn’t know where to go, but my Stephen Minister has helped so much.” If you think a Stephen

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Minister may be the right thing for you or someone you care about, contact Deaconess Marlene.

Connections – because life is better together!

Make Bible study a part of your weekly schedule.

Sunday mornings at 9:30 am - Sarah Mueller & Dick Maas The study on 1st Timothy

Ken & Betty Bahr’s Bible class the Book of Job, bi-weekly on Mondays at 7 PM. Phone: 262-255-4643. At W158 N9752 Broadleaf Lane, Germantown.

Tuesdays 11:45-12:45 a study of the Gospel of John, taught by Deaconess Marlene Anderson. The Gospel with a profound effect on so many people, offering otherwise unrecorded details of Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and life. Class will meet Dec. 13 and then not until Jan. 3 in the new church.

Fourth Thursdays 9:30am Starting the 4th week in January, we are starting a new study called “God’s Word, Power to Shape our Lives” led by Myrtle Boese. The place of meeting to be determined.

Mission of the Month & Acts of Grace

Mission of the month --Wind River Mission church in Fort Washkie WY-- The last two years Acts of Grace has assisted in sending 2 mission teams to this church where they have helped with various building projects. The church, which is located on an Indian reservation in WY, has needs which extend beyond just the building. We would like to support them to further their out reach into this community where the hope that God's Love brings is sometimes hard to find. To make a donation make checks payable to Grace Lutheran Church with Mission of the Month on the memo line and on the envelope.

Boots and Blankets! There are many who through the winter snowy seasons have nothing to keep them warm or protect them from the elements. On the streets, there are many homeless who are in need of blankets to help them make it through the winter. Bethany in Milwaukee hands out blankets throughout the winter to those who are in need. Manna helps serve those who are in need of boots through the winter months. We are looking to support both of these ministries through a blanket and boots drive. If you are able to donate gently used boots, blankets, and sleeping bags please bring them to the church office or place them in the box in the back of church. If you have a cat or dog please launder blankets ahead of time to protect from the allergies others might have.

Thank You - Dear Sister and Brothers in Christ, All of us at the South Wisconsin District office would like to thank you for your Thanksgiving turkey donation generosity. Without your help and partnership, hundreds of families would not have received a complete Thanksgiving meal. We partnered with Brookfield Lutheran Church because of their experience with purchasing, assembly and distribution. The volunteerism was nothing less than extraordinary. During a short period of time, the Brookfield volunteers assembled 1,152 complete Thanksgiving meals that included green beans, corn, sweet peas, potatoes, rice, yams, apple juice, stuffing, cranberry sauce, bag of apples, pumpkin pie, pie topping, dinner rolls and of course a turkey. This act not only feeds the physical body, but provides witness to the Gospel. Jesus speaks of this in Matthew 25:37-40, “Then the righteous will answer Him, Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink...the King will reply, I tell you the truth, Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for Me.” The 1,152 turkeys is a great number, but I hope and pray that we all will continue to show our love of Christ and Gospel witness 365 days a year. God’s richest blessings, Bob Mason SWD Mission Advocate

Manna The Manna Committee is in need of pots, pans, silverware, dishes, lamps, quilts & blankets and all furniture. All items must be in good, useable condition. Call Arlene Dassow, 414/466-8797, with questions or for pick-up.

Women’s Ministry

Knitting classes are being held on the 2nd & 4th Mondays of the month at 6:30pm in the 6th grade class room. Contact Jane Fritsch at 262/628-5052 for more information.

Thank you for your Mites. Thank you to everyone who placed pennies, dimes and dollars in the LWML Mite Box. Your contributions have made it possible for Grace women to send a check for $120 to help support LWML mission projects here at home and around the world. Thank you for helping share the love of Jesus. The date has been set. The theme has been chosen for the 2012 Grace Women’s Getaway. Plan to attend Holy, Chosen, Treasured March 23 & 24 at the Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, WI. Our speaker will be Dr. Lois Mueller of CUW, speaking on Brain Gym-using simple

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body movements to train your brain. We want you to be there!

Mom to Mom

On Dec 15, bring your ideas and learn more about “Ideas for Celebrating the Holidays with Children at 6:30 in the Fellowship Hall. Whatever your age or stage in life as a mom – Mom to Mom is for you! Childcare is available on a donation basis.

Children’s Ministry

JAM Sunday school is for children 3years old – 5th grade on Sundays at 9:30am in the gym.

JAM reminder: In lieu of the Christmas program this year, the children will be singing at the dedication service on Dec. 18th. Children will sit with their families and be called forward to sing.

JAM will not be held again until January 8th.

Play and Pray, for mothers and their pre-school children, meets in the choir room on the 2nd Thursdays at 9:30 and off-site on the 4th Thursdays. Contact Amy Raymond for more information at 262-502-0618 or [email protected].

Vacation Bible School Even though the snow is about to fly, we are starting to think about next year’s Vacation Bible School for our children at Grace and in this community. We are very grateful for the direction and leadership given by Kathryn Reinders and Julie Nysse over the past few years. As they step down from leading VBS, we are looking for volunteers to continue this vital ministry. If you are interested in helping direct VBS or have questions, please contact Pastor Joel Howard. Children are important to the ministry here at Grace, prayerfully consider serving the Lord in this way.

Youth Ministry

Check out the YOUTH website gograceyouth.com or call Erick or Kristy, 262/442-5182 for more information on activities.

The youth groups meet on the 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month as follows in the youth room:

Junior Youth (6th – 8th grade) 5:00 – 6:30pm Senior Youth (high school) 7:00 – 8:30pm

Jr and Sr Youth Annual Christmas Caroling and Party Sun December 18th from 5-8pm both groups will join together to carol at two local nursing homes and then return for our party. Please bring a snack to share and a $5 gift for the gift exchange. The gift should be appropriate for both a girl or a boy. This is a family event and siblings and parents are encouraged to join us. Drivers needed! Call Erick or Kristy at 262-257-0271.

Grace Lutheran School Please visit the school section of our website www.grace-connect.org for information, calendar, and a link to Fast Direct.

Classroom Highlights By Jenny Winkelmann

3K has been very busy preparing for Jesus' birthday. We enjoyed making a paper chain to help us count down the days until Christmas. We are working very hard to get ready for our Advent program next Wednesday with the 4K, 5K, 1st and 2nd graders. We are singing many neat songs and doing our own fingerplay. We learn about one letter of the alphabet each week and do many fun activities and projects that coordinate with that letter. This month we will learn G for Gingerbread, C for Christmas, and J for Jesus. We practice writing and learning letter sounds each day. Most of us are writing our names by ourselves now and some of us are even writing our last names! We are growing every day and our teachers are so proud of how much we have learned so far this year! We hope that you and your family have a blessed Christmas season!

Events Elsewhere

Retirement Celebration The band director at MLHS, Del Schmidt, is retiring at the end of this school year after 41 years of service. The Retirement Concert will be March 17, 2012 at 3:00pm and will feature both high school bands along with an alumni band. A Celebration Buffet will follow at the Schwabenhof at 6:00pm. Advance reservations are required and should be sent to [email protected]. Buffet price to be determined but will not exceed $25.00 per adult, with children at half price. We are hoping for a large turnout and due to the size of the room, reservations will be accepted on a first come first served basis.

Milwaukee Lutheran High School is in need of an assistant girls tennis coach and 3 to 6 individuals to be a part of the chain crew for football games (all levels) for next fall (2012). If interested contact Keith Kalous – Athletic Director at (414) 461-6000 ext. 208 or by email [email protected]

The Living Word LHS Music Department Christmas Concert will be held Sunday, December 18 at First Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cedarburg at 4:30 PM. Band and choirs will share some Christmas inspiration.

Herzing University Online has designed a community scholarship for individuals who reside or work in Menomonee Falls. Up to twenty $1000 scholarship will be awarded to qualified individuals. Herzing University is located at Lilly Rd and Main Street. See the church office for additional information and application.

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Christmas Worship Schedule All services at the Cross View Way location

Help Decorate the Church for Christmas The plant(s) with your name on can be

picked up after the Christmas Day service.

Please fill out the order form below and include cash or check made out to Audrey

Gresen and place it in her mailbox, or turn it in to the church office.

The deadline for ordering is December 14.

You may also make a donation in the amount of your choice to go towards bulletins and children’s Christmas books. Please make check payable to GRACE and specify it is for bulletins.

--------------------------- ------------------- Name ________________________________________

Phone Number _________________________________

Color Preference (please circle) red, white

6”- $9.50 7” -- $17.50

8” - $22.50 10” - $32.50

I would like to donate (any dollar amount)

Enclosed is $ ________ (flowers) $ _______ (donation)

In memory or in honor of________________________

Bring Christmas to life at Grace! Friday & Saturday, December 16 & 17

6:00-8:00 pm

This will take place on our brand new church grounds!!

Narrated story with live characters and animals Presentations every 30 minutes Refreshments after each performance A Christmas gift for every child

This moving presentation will take you back to the first Christmas night – an experience to make your Christmas

complete. Invite family, friends, and neighbors to join you and introduce them to Grace Lutheran Church and School!

Chris

tmas

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ve

10:00AM Rejoice Family Service with Communion 12:00PM Rejoice Family Service with Communion 2:00PM Rejoice Family Service with Communion 4:00 PM Traditional Family Service 6:30PM Traditional Family Service with

Communion 11:00PM Candlelight Service

9:30AM Christmas Day with Communion

5:00PM New Year’s Eve Service with Communion