The

GOOD NEWS GAZETTEMarch 2019

‘Christ Be Beside Me!’

From the Pastor's DeskPastor Bob Weidmayer

Let My People Go! Four little words yet, they speak so much! In the book of Exodus, God instructs Moses to lead the Israelites out of bondage to Egypt and into the promised land. In chapter 5 we read “Moses and Aaron went and said to Pharaoh, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘Let my people go, that they may hold a feast to me in the wilderness.’” (Ex. 5:1) We know the outcome of this proclamation. Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, God’s plagues rained down upon Egypt, the Passover and Israel’s release and finally the ultimate experience, passing through the Red Sea!

Let My People Go……. First thing we notice is the word “MY”. We are God’s people, the sheep of His pasture. “We are not our own, we were bought with a price, not with silver or gold but the holy Precious blood of Jesus Christ” (Luther’s Small Catechism) When we forget we are God’s people we fall into pride, or despair and all sorts of other sins in the attempt to control that which is rightfully “ours”. God reminded the Israelites time and time again as they wandered that He alone was their God and they were His people. He fed them, provided them water, protection, healing and forgiveness as they bowed before of a golden calf. Despite all this and more, the people of God flee from Him and He restores them.

Over the coming weeks of Lent and into Easter we will be studying on the book of Exodus. It will be the topic of our church services, Bible studies, and devotional lives through the Lenten devotionals available in the family room.

This series was created by Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing. A big thank to him for sharing it with us. Dr. Lessing is the senior pastor at St. Michael Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Prior to his current call at St. Michael, Dr. Lessing served as professor of exegetical theology and director of the graduate school at Concordia Seminary St. Louis.

We pray this Lenten journey reminds you that You are God’s chosen and highly favored child. We pray you join us on Sundays and Wednesday evenings as God comes to serve us through His Word

Page2

and Sacraments. We pray He draws you even closer to Himself and to each other as we hear those words echo even today as God proclaims, “Let My People Go!”

Lenten Service Schedule:Ash Wednesday, March 6, 7:00 p.m. with the imposition of Ashes and Holy Communion.Wednesday Lenten Services weekly 7:00 p.m. with Holy Communion.Palm Sunday April 14; 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.Maundy Thursday Seder, April 18; 5:30 p.m. Service with Holy Communion follows at 7:30p.m.Good Friday Tenebrae, April 19 at 7:00 p.m.Easter Sunday: Sunrise at Farmington Cemetery 6:00 a.m.Worship at St. John’s 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. with Holy Communion.

Serving Christ with you,Pastor Bob Weidmayer

________________________________________________________________________________

 

Preschool NewsLynda Scribner 

February was a fun filled month at Preschool! Both classes celebrated Valentine's Day in a big way! Children exchanged valentines and partied with their parents and grandparents. Thanks to all who provided special snacks and assistance.

It is so exciting to watch the 3's as they learn how to have fun making new friends and playing cooperatively. Such growth since the beginning of the school year. We've also seen so much improvement in listening skills, both in Circle time and centers.

The 4's/Multiage class is looking forward to a field trip to the Strasenburgh Planetarium in Rochester. In preparation, they are learning about God's creation of the earth, sun, moon and other stars.

On February 2nd, we were blessed with a very successful Open House. Our 4's/Multiage class is almost full. Our 3's class is not far behind. We continue to accept registrations every day. Please spread the word that we will schedule individual tours for parents/families who would like to visit and learn more about our program.

If you haven't done so already, please "Like" us on Facebook (St. John's Christian Preschool). We love to post pictures of our celebrations and adventures!

a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page3

Believe it or not, it's time to sign your child up for the 2019-20 school year. Registration for church members and families of currently/formerly enrolled students began on January 28th. Registration is open to the public beginning at our Open House on February 2nd from 9-11 am. We have added a new option for students in our 4's/Multiage class. We will be offering a 5 day program for those interested.

Our classes have been known to fill up quickly. Be sure to register early if you are planning on having your child attend in the Fall. Any questions, please contact Lynda Scribner (585)298-1547 or email preschool@pumpkinhook.org. Thank you!

Financial SecretarySteve Torkelson

Our Financial Health

Giving through January 2019 - $13,354

Giving through January 2018 - $13,173

Due to the timing of some of the billings, and the church being closed January 20 th, we will publish giving and spending comparisons next month.

2 Corinthians 9:7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. We want to thank God for the Blessings he has bestowed on us through the members of St. John’s. We still need your continued financial support and prayers. We trust and pray that we are on the path He has set before us.

focused on growing families in faith

Page4

Keenagers Izzie Braun

The chili cook-off was a big success with 10 entries. The judges, Joyce Carr, Aaron Delehanty, and Steve Torkelson had a big decision and selected Marvin Miner and Flora Straight the winners. Thank you to all that contributed bread, corn bread, salad and cookies. Special thanks to Jen and Howie Barnes who set up and cleaned up.

All mature and responsible members of St. John’s are welcome to attend our Keenager activities and meetings. Our next gathering will be March 17th for lunch at the Bonefish Grill.

Any questions, please call:

Jean Heberle 585-654-6291 after 11:30AM please or

Izzie Braun 315-538-8725

Ladies Circle Claudia Poh

 

The ladies worked on our cards for our shut-ins at our February meeting. They will soon be in the mail.

Next month at our March 20th meeting we will be doing a book review. The ladies will be reading “The distance between us” by Reyna Grande.

The girls also discussed the “Spring Fling” which we will be hosting along with the Keenagers on Sunday May 19. Please mark your calendars for that date.

Remember, any and all ladies from our congregation are welcome to our group. Feel free to drop in and join us. Thanks!

a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page5

President’s Message

Howard G Barnes

Very soon we'll be entering the season of Lent. So now is the time for celebration, for sharing the good news and the good works of St John's. Every interaction we have with each other in our communities should be on sharing Christ's love for all of us. But how do we do it? How do we share our faith? Lets take a moment to share a couple of ideas.

We know today that social media is perhaps the most popular form of communication amongst most people. For the most part, we are on Facebook or Instagram, or Twitter or we follow blogs. How do we use these things to spread the message of Christ? First, find us on Facebook, Twitter or other social media and add us. Then like and follow articles and announcements that come along.

Have you looked at the St. John's web page recently? Over the last year, it has been revamped and upgraded. Our digital front door, a blend of the classic with the modern. Several blogs are linked and can be used as daily devotionals. Each of our news stories and articles can be shared to social media, most of them have a link at the bottom.

The big calendar in the hall still exists, but there is a digital version of it on the website. You can see what and when things are happening. Also, Servant leader are (or will be shortly) posted for easier reference along with the assigned readings for the week. Soon Sermons and video will be posted regularly.

To help us make some of these changes and advance St. John’s presence in the digital world, Stephen Maier will be interning this Spring. Look for changes and if there is something you think would help us - please let us know!

Our digital front door, as the light, the light of Christ. That light shining on a digital hill. Do we hide it under a bushel? No! Are we going to let Satan blow it out? NO, Let it shine, all the time, let it shine. Or in the digital world, share, like and forward... the light.

Picnic in the Park

Sunday, July 14th. Picnic in the Park!

Movie Night

focused on growing families in faith

Page6

We invite you to join us for our second movie night on March 24th at 4:30 pm, Invite your friends and come join us for a movie and discussion afterward!  The movie shown will be “The Passion” directed by Mel Gibson.

Notes from the Office Lance Eckler Pastoral Assistant

The season of lent is upon us and during this very important time of reflection is also the perfect time for fellowship. Please join us for a soup and sandwich dinner each Wednesday at 6 p.m. starting March 6th (Ash Weds.). A Service follows after each supper at 7p.m. I hope to see you all there!

As always, please do not hesitate to call the church office if you need any assistance.

(315) 986-3045 Monday through Friday 8:30AM- 12:30PM 

Teen ClassRyan Smith

Teen class is sponsoring a fundraiser for Family Promise. We have created a banner that needs your help! Teen class is going to be selling stars to finish the banner for $2 each or 6 for $10. The final banner will be unveiled at the end of March. 

Church Attendance 

Month: February Church Attendance (Sunday/Wednesday)a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page7

Week of 3rd 94/13 Week of 10th  111/9Week of 17th 79/18Week of 24th 95/16

TOTAL: services 379/56     

 Sign-Up Sheets in Family RoomShoveling: both services through April.

Movie Night: 4:30 PM, March 24th.

Want a new picture directory?: sign-up to order.

Ash Weds. Soup and Sandwich Supper: March 6th.

Seder Dinner: April 18th seating and servants.

Easter flowers: for our April 21st service.

Upcoming EventsJen Barnes

As we look forward through the Lent and Easter season - please remember to keep your eyes out for sign-up sheets!       Soup and Sandwich Suppers will be before services on Wednesday nights starting March 6 th.!  Sign up to bring your favorite soup or another goodie. We also are in need of people to make sure things are coordinated each week!       The Seder Dinner will be held on April the 18th. Look for signups for bringing items as well as the seating arrangements. We need a good count so that the proper amount of lamb can be ordered!      Keep your eyes open for the order forms for the Easter Flowers!

And don't forget about our monthly events! March 15th at 7pm will be our Euchre night. Come bring a snack and a drink of your choice and have a good time!  Don't worry you don't need a partner! March 24th at 4:30pm will be our movie night!  

focused on growing families in faith

Page8

NEXT ONE

Blessed Hope Ladies Luncheon. Come join a bunch of Christian Ladies for a wonderful meal and a Christian Speaker. The next luncheon will be March 15 with the speaker being Verity Swayne. *Reservations are due on or before the Friday before each luncheon.  If you would like more information - talk to Lyndia Scribner or Jen Barnes Call 585-554-3400 or email lccmail@letourneau.org

March 5th: Pancake Dinner 4:30-6:30PM

March 6th: Ash Weds. S&S dinner 6PM

March 11th: Council 7PM

March 10th: Elders 12:30PM

March 15th: Euchre night 7PM

March 24th: Movie Night 4:30PM

 March 2019 Servant List alter guild-8:30am- Luann Holtz ,11am- needed

Date   8:30 AM 11 AM

March 3 Greeter Candy Aldrich Jack&Joyce Paterson

  Reader Kevin Delehanty Linda Braun

  Ushers Ed Holtz Gerald Case

  Ushers Luann Holtz D. Kuehnert

  Communion Assistant Cindy Trullo/J. Barnes A.Schoenknecht&S.Habberfield

  Acolyte Mike Kirsch Laura Smith

March 10 Greeter Heidi VanAken Jack and Joyce Paterson

  Reader Linda Braun Al Schoenknecht

a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page9

  Usher Dale Power Gary Scribner

  Usher Cheryl Power Lynda Scribner

  Communion Assistant D. Dulmage Lauree Meehan

  Communion Assistant Jen Barnes Al Schoenknecht

  Acolyte Mike Kirsch Payton Walters

March 17 Greeter Kirsch family Jack&Joyce Paterson

  Reader Nicky Kirsch Phil Beiderbeck

  Usher Dale&Cheryl Power L. Armstrong &L.Scribner

  Communion D.Musfeldt&L.Braun L.Maier &K. Carpenter

  Acolyte Mikey Kirsch Laura Smith

March 24 Greeter Barnes Family Jack&Joyce Paterson

  Reader Howie Barnes Phoebe Eckler

  Usher D.Dulmage&Linda Armstrong GaryScribner/Gerald Case

  Communion Jen Barnes & C. Trullo Lauree Meehan & S.Habberfield

  Acolyte Payton Walters Laura Smith

March 31 Greeter Delehantys Jean Heberle

  Reader Jen Barnes Debbie Biederbecke

  Usher D.Dulmage&Ed Holtz Steve Maier&Al Schoenknecht

  Communion L. Holtz & C. Trullo Linda Braun & S.Habberfield

  Acolyte Mike Kirsch Laura Smith

focused on growing families in faith

Page10

April 2019 Servant List alter guild-8:30am -Linda Braun, 11am- Shari Schoenknecht

Date   8:30 AM 11 AM

April 7 Greeter Candy Aldrich Sandy Bastian

  Reader Kevin Delehanty Linda Braun

  Ushers Ed Holtz Gerald Case

  Ushers Luann Holtz D. Kuehnert

  Communion Assistant Cindy Trullo/J. Barnes A.Schoenknecht&S.Habberfield

  Acolyte Payton Walters Laura Smith

April 14 Greeter Heidi VanAken Marty Barmaster

  Reader Linda Braun Al Schoenknecht

  Usher Dale Power Gary Scribner

  Usher Cheryl Power Lynda Scribner

  Communion Assistant D. Dulmage Lauree Meehan

  Communion Assistant Jen Barnes Al Schoenknecht

  Acolyte Mike Kirsch Payton Walters

April 21 Greeter Kirsch family Jack&Joyce Paterson

  Reader Nicky Kirsch Phil Beiderbeck

  Usher Dale&Cheryl Power L. Armstrong &L.Scribner

  Communion D.Musfeldt&L.Braun L.Maier &K. Carpenter

  Acolyte Mikey Kirsch Laura Smith

April 28 Greeter Barnes Family Sue Habberfield

  Reader Howie Barnes Phoebe Eckler

  Usher D.Dulmage&Linda Armstrong GaryScribner/Gerald Case

  Communion Jen Barnes & C. Trullo Lauree Meehan & S.Habberfield

  Acolyte Payton Walters Laura Smith

a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page11

Family promise Of Ontario CountyCandy Aldrich

Monthly Game Izzie Braun

Euchre night was a great success for those who attended. There were 12 of us which included some people that I had never met before. We had a tournament thanks to Howie Barnes who was manager of the screen that kept a record of our wins. Thank you, Jen Barnes for working in the kitchen and getting things ready. We all brought food and our own drinks. There was a lot of yelling EUCHRE!!

Look for the next Euchre night in the GNG and plan on coming. All ages are welcome as long as you have a little knowledge of the game. The next Euchre night is Friday, March 15 @ 7PM Hope to see you there!

focused on growing families in faith

Page12

Mission and MinistryCandy Aldrich

Save the date! We will be holding a “yard” sale on Saturday, August 3, 2019 from 9 am – 3 pm in the Ed. building at the church. Yes, this is the same weekend as the Pumpkin Hook Carnival. A table and 2 chairs will be available to use for $10, with the profits going toward the support of our mission child, Escarleth Ortiz-Terceros in Bolivia. This offer is open to church members and to anyone in the community. You may speak to Kim Baxter, Cheryl Power or Candy Aldrich if you have any questions.

Directory

The draft of the directory is done, However, there are many people without pictures or information in the directory. A copy is by the coffee pot. Feel free to use the backdrop, take your own picture and send it in. if you would like to arrange for your photo to be taken contact

Nikki at nakirsh@gmail.com. Thank you!

WOW! Wednesday Worship Service Assistant NEEDED.Worship on Wednesday is every Wednesday night at 7PM.

We are looking for people to assist during the service in ushering, greeting, etc.

Please contact the office if you would like to serve in this capacity at our midweek services,thank you!

a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page13

Long Term Prayer List March 2019:Bill Heltzel (Nancy Wints’ brother) Nadine Printup (friend of Meades’)D. Kuehnert (Don’s brother)Allen Hammerick (Laura’s son Shirley Netzband (Jeff’s mother) Don Nugent (father of Chuck Thomas)Lindsey Trullo (Cindy’s daughter)Amy Gaesser (Laura Hammerick’s sister) Mildred O’Neil (Charlene Musfeldts’ sister)Noelle Henning (Roger’s daughter-in-law)Jackie Dippert (friend of Laura Hammerick)Kenneth Soscia (friend of Buckingham’s & Jenkins)Jane Barmaster,Autumn, & Emily ( Martha’s family)

Steve Preston (Carpenters’ friend) Richard Almekinder (Karen Netzband’s father)Roger Carpenter Jodi & Casey (Victor Students)Gordon Hill Karen CareyDoug Snyder Charlene & Katie(Barmaster friends)Don Arnold Jack TalbotGlenn Bastian Mia HowieJon Santmyer (Preschool Dad)Ken Scoscia (Friend of Sharon Jenkins) Kailee (Friend of Jean Heberle)  Mary Frederes (Ann King’s Mother) Linda Wade (Mary Ballou’s friend)Ashley Chand (Brian Maier’s fiancé)John Paul Braun (Izzie’s grandson)Military and their Families: LCpl Bryan Podgorski (Carpenters Grandson) ET3 Adam Hopseeker (Friend of Barnes) A1C Brian Heckman (Heckman family) LT Paul Kuehnert (Don’s nephew) AEAA Rebekah Thorpe (Barnes Family) For additions or changes please call: Jean Heberle (585)654-6291OR the church office (315)986-3045. Thank You.  

focused on growing families in faith

Page14

Pancake Dinner

a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page15

Sunday School News

Linda Braun

Dear Friends in Christ,

The first part of this year has been very cold. But, St. John’s has provided a warm place to visit, study, sing and worship. Thank you for brining your children and yourselves to Sunday School. I thought I’d share 3 verses that might help us stay focused on our families.

Exodus 20:12 - Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

Joshua 24:15—But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.

Proverbs 22:6 - Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.

Sunday School Attendance:

1/6 1/13 1/20 1/27 Avg./TotalK-8 16 23 cancelle

d 23 21

Teens 3 4 3 3Adults 11 9 0 10Totals 30 36 26 31

January Perfect Attendance

Congratulations to the following students for achieving perfect attendance

during the month of January 2019

Aaron and Morgan Baxter Lia, Jennifer and Ryder Holtz

focused on growing families in faith

Page16

Blood DriveMary Zuege

THIRD ANNUAL SCHREINER MEMORIAL BLOOD DRIVEHere comes the THIRD ANNUAL SCHREINER MEMORIAL BLOOD DRIVE

Tuesday, April 16 from 1:30pm-6:30pm

Please be on the look-out for volunteer sign-up sheets.

The sheets will be out on March 31.

We will need people to supervise registration and the canteen

in one hour shifts.

Teens and confirmands can serve as there will always be an adult present for support.

If you wish to donate blood, please go to the Red Cross website where you will be able to make an appointment that is convenient for you.

When blood is needed, there really is nothing else that can take its place!

Any questions?

Ask Mary Zuege. Thanks!

a caring congregation reaching out to all

Page17

focused on growing families in faith

Page18

 

153 Church AvenueHamlet of Pumpkin Hook Farmington, NY 14425

St. John’s Lutheran Church The Good News Gazette—

March 2019 ‘Focused On Growing Families In Faith’ ‘Christ Be Beside Me!’

a caring congregation reaching out to all

WORSHIPSundays

8:30 am & 11 am 

Wednesdays 7pm

  Come as you

are

Pastor Robert Weidmayer

pastor@pumpkinhook.org

Pastoral Assistant Lance EcklerStjohns@

pumpkinhook.org

Council President Howie Barnes

President@pumpkinhook.org

Preschool Director Lynda Scribner

315 ◦ 986 ◦3045 Office M-F 8:30-12:30pmwww.PumpkinHook.org

Non-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Macedon, NYPermit # 13

193746