American Lutheran Church, Gibson City, Illinois “Committed to Love and to Serve”

June/July 2019 Newsletter

From the Pastor

Paul is in prison when he writes a letter to the Ephesians (4:1-2): Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. 2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.

Let’s face it – in order to be patient with others, each one of us must learn to be patient with ourselves; and in order to be able to love others, we must first learn to love ourselves. I have been reminded of this since undergoing hip replacement surgery three weeks ago. I have had to re-learn how to be patient with myself, and how to love myself as a person who is created in the image of God. Loving myself, according to Paul, is not being selfish or self-centered; loving myself means being patient with myself as I recover from a major surgery. I have learned three things about patience over the past three weeks. First, after hip replacement surgery, I was admitted into a hospital room at 3:00 pm, and was up and walking on my new hip at 5:00 pm. The physical therapist got me walking right away to get the hip moving; to set the joint; and to prepare me for going home as soon as possible to reduce the risk of getting an infection, which is very prevalent in hospitals. I had to learn patience so I could take a deep breath, trust the doctors and therapists, and carry out the tasks that they asked me to do. Second, I had to learn patience to ensure a healthy recovery. I was instructed to go through my physical therapy exercises twice a day. Pushing for a faster recovery, I began exercising five times a day. When the therapist noticed that my leg was turning red and swelling excessively, she informed me that overdoing exercises causes inflammation and greatly increases the chances of getting infected. I had to be patient, slow down, and only exercise twice a day to ensure a healthier recovery. Third, I patiently stayed in the house for 17 days until seeing the surgeon for my follow-up visit. I was instructed to refrain from going to public places until the surgeon removed the staples and checked to make sure that all wounds were properly healed. Public exposure to open wounds increases the chances of infection. So, in order to heal properly I chose to be patient, follow instructions, and trust that God will heal my hip over time. Everyone heals differently. It is disrespectful to point fingers, brag, or put others down because their recovery may take longer, or not be as successful as that of ourselves or other people we know. Paul says that as Christians we are to be humble, gentle, patient and loving to others by supporting them, praying for them, and encouraging them to trust in God for healing and wholeness. When we learn to be patient with ourselves and to love ourselves, we cannot help but be patient and loving to every person that we meet. This is how Paul could be a Christian witness while in prison; why Jesus could forgive those who crucified him; and how we can show Jesus’s patience and love to people who are not at all patient or loving to us. God’s grace and peace be with you, Pastor Jim

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People in our Prayers

Dick Anstrom, father of Rich Anstrom is a resident of Gibson Hospital Annex. Michael Balda, a friend of Larry Richoz is battling multiple blood clots. Tom Bennett has returned to work in Springfield, but continues to recover from a serious automobile accident. Jerry Biggart, nephew of Bette Mohart continues to recover from a motorcycle accident and several subsequent surgeries. Carol Boyle is undergoing medical tests. Carrie Breum, grand-daughter of Frank & Margaret Stocker is teaching in Asia. Isaac Brucker is serving in the U.S. Army Airborne Unit at Fort Bragg, N.C. Jim Brucker has discovered that he has lung cancer. Lisa Buhs, daughter-in-law of Judy Buhs is battling MS. Emma Couillard, mother of Jeanette Bartells has health concerns. Pastor Jim Davis is recovering from hip replacement surgery. Heather Eisenhardt, grand-daughter of Bette Mohart serves at Great Lakes Naval Station, Chicago. Gabe Fairchild is battling cancer and kidney failure. Jeff Finis, cousin of Kevin Buhs is fighting cancer. Judy Friedlein, a long-time friend of Pastor Jim is battling cancer. Chuck Hay continues the long healing process of recovering from a serious leg injury. Nancy Hay is caregiver for Chuck and her father, Lou Wahls. Paul Hellyer, nephew of Kim Brucker is battling addiction. Denise Horton, a close friend of Molly Schroader is fighting cancer. Terry Hutchcraft is battling kidney disease. Dale Jones is a resident of Heritage Healthcare with dementia. Ada Kennedy is a resident of Gibson Area Hospital Annex. Drew Kirkpatrick is a former student of Kelly Tompkins who suffers from mental illness. Curtis Lindsey, grandson of Becki Reinhart has medical concerns. Nancy List is a resident of the Gibson Area Hospital Annex. Randy Long has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Jessica McCalip, a friend of Lanie Celeschi is battling Cystic Fibrosis, Osteoporosis, and arthritis. Gary McCullough is undergoing treatment for colon cancer. Kade Nichols is a 12-year-old nephew of Evelyn Andris recovering from brain surgery. Pastor Dennis Norton of First Baptist Church continues to heal from a double-lung transplant. Marilyn Quinn, sister-in-law of Judy Glascock is battling cancer. Allen Randecker, father of Kim Brucker is recovering from a serious fall and is battling double-vision. Jeff Randecker, brother of Kim Brucker suffers from depression. Ryan Reid, grandson of Frank & Margaret Stocker is serving in the U.S. Air Force in Japan. Mark Rhodes has health concerns. Steve Rhodes is recovering from cancer treatments on his neck. Betty Rice, sister of Evelyn Andris continues to undergo physical therapy. Christina Rodriguez, wife of a custodian at Ridgeview School, has a relapse of leukemia and needs a stem cell transplant (friend of Kelly Tompkins). Pastor Chrissy Salser is recovering from foot surgery. Sarah Sarantakos, future mother-in-law of Michelle Eggemeyer is recovering from stomach surgery. Ron Stevenson is recovering from surgery on Thursday, May 23rd to repair a ruptured tendon on his foot. Mary Timm has health concerns. Lou Wahls, father of Nancy Hay is a resident of Prairieview Lutheran Home, Danforth. Barb Williams is recovering from a recent fall.

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Happy Birthday – June

Ron Stevenson 1 Sara Bielfeldt 8 Allen Baker 26 Caleb Wahls 4 Patrick Celeschi 16 Olivia May 28 Morgan Triplett 5 Avery Bielfeldt 19 Kelly Tompkins 29 Michael Reiners 7 Joshua Nuss 22 Roger Gerth 30 Ryan Tompkins 7 Tucker Cribbett 26

Happy Anniversary – June Pastor Jim & Cynthia Davis 2 Jim & Jewel Lewis 25 Gayle & Judy Glascock 9 Ron & Evelyn Andris 30 Ryan & Misti Tompkins 24

Happy Birthday – July Jason Bleich 2 Marty Nuss 19 Darrell Nunamaker 25 Hannah Zalaker 4 Evelyn Andris 21 Carol Boyle 26 Colin Lasater 5 Lisa Buhs 21 Barb Bielfeldt 28 Nora Becker 11 Debbie Timm 21 Bette Mohart 28 Kris Cramer 16 Kelsey DeFries 22 Darrell Stroh 29 Marcus Duncan 16 Alexis Triplett 24

Happy Anniversary – July Kevin and Lori Buhs 18 Ted & Debbie Timm 21 William & Mary Ann Kreitzer 21 Marty & Roxann Nuss 23 Kyle & Lisa Buhs 27 We rejoice with the Family of Woods Matthew Lasater, who was baptized on May 26th. Woods is the son of Colin & Victoria Lasater. Sponsors are Brandon & Lauren Lasater and Chandler Gregerson. Grandparents are Dave & Lisa Gregerson and Frank & Jana Lasater. Great-grandparents are Jerry & Mary Tompkins. May God bless Woods as he grows in his knowledge and faith in God! Congratulations to Our Graduates:

Graduating from 8th Grade on Thursday morning May 30th were: Halie Heinz, daughter of Katie Heinz; and Reagan Tompkins, daughter of Ryan & Misti Tompkins.

Graduating from GCMS High School on Saturday, May 19th, were: Makenzi Bielfeldt, daughter of Janna & Leo Rexwinkle and John & Jessica Bielfeldt; Alayna Miller, daughter of Curt & Holly Miller; and Joshua Nuss, son of Marty & Roxann Nuss.

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Hooray for fathers -- A Houston newspaper asked readers to send

in thoughts about their fathers. Letters flooded in, and what people wrote

about their fathers is most inspiring.

A few comments:

• Dad was always there for me. He sacrificed to make sure that we had

what we needed.

• When disappointment came my way, Dad said, “Son, real life ain’t

about getting what you want but more about doing something with what

you get.”

• My dad was disabled, but he worked hard to make sure we children had

a good education and lived moral lives. He would say, “I want you to

succeed more than I did.”

• My dad wanted us to be Christians and took us regularly to church.

What would you write about your father?

Date Worship

Attendance General Fund Offering received

2019 Budget Weekly amount needed *

April 28 54 $2,298.00 $2,460.58

May 5 47 $2,131.00 $2,460.58

May 12 46 $1,677.00 $2,460.58

May 19 43 $1,743.00 $2,460.58

Monthy Total $7,849.00 $9,842.32

*(In order to meet our anticipated needs for 2019, our weekly offering needs to meet or

exceed this amount)

Would you like a supply of offering envelopes to keep at home for convenience in filling out ahead of worship services? Please contact Rona Eyer or Gerry Gallagher and they will get those to you. Or—feel free to take some from the pews for future use as they are replaced/replenished each week. And, if you have any other concerns about supplies in the pews, please let us know. Thank You! Each Sunday, tune in to WGCY Radio, 106.3 FM for “Sing for Joy” from St. Olaf College

in Minnesota from 7:00 – 7:30 am, sponsored by St. John’s, Anchor; and “Moments of

Grace” featuring Pastor Jim from 7:30 – 7:45 am, sponsored by American, Gibson City.

Remember to pray for those who are attending the 32nd Annual Synod Assembly

on June 6-7-8, 2019. The Assembly is being held in the

BOS (Bank of Springfield) Center in Springfield, Illinois.

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Hi! It’s me, Church Mouse. It has really been a very busy time around here this past month. So many things going on like Holy Week, Easter Brunch and Easter service; oh, and by the way… please don’t clean up so well…. I couldn’t find a single crumb to snack on! Then there was the Little Achiever’s graduation and a big birthday party and just so many fun things. One thing is for sure, I have heard a lot of chatter about so many things that I want to share a compiled list of “Golden Rules to Use

at Church” (or anywhere for that matter.) ✓ If you open it – please close it. ✓ If you turn it on – please be sure to turn it off. ✓ If you unlock it – please lock it. ✓ If you move it – please put it back. ✓ If it belongs to someone else – please ask permission to use it. ✓ If you borrow it – please ask permission first – then please return it. ✓ If you don’t know how to operate it – please ask someone for assistance or leave it

alone. ✓ If you use it – please take care of it. ✓ If you break it – please admit it. ✓ If you can’t fix it – please call someone who can. ✓ If you mess it up – please clean it up. ✓ If it’s none of your business – please don’t ask questions. ✓ If something or someone upsets you – please let them know – talking to others

about it is just plain gossip. If everyone would try and following these suggestions, things would be a whole lot easier and I think people would be much happier too! Well, I hope everyone has a really great month and I look forward to sharing with you next month! Sincerely, Church Mouse

Coffee & Conversation is taking a break for the summer. Please let Pastor Jim know if you are interested

in attending this monthly event. If there is enough interest, then meetings will resume in September.

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Summer 2019: Lessons from Esther – Our St. John’s/American WELCA Bible Study Summer Session begins this month (June). This three session-study is brought to us by Kay Ward, a bishop of the Moravian Church who lives at Marquardt Manor, a Moravian retirement community in Watertown, Wisconsin. She continues to serve in ministry as a pastor to pastors and intercessor for the church. Before retiring from the staff of Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, she served in team ministry with her husband, Aden. Kay was the first woman to be elected a bishop in the 541 years of the Moravian Church (the Unitas Fratrum).

The Book of Esther is one of the latest writings of the Old Testament, perhaps written to inspire

Jews who had been scattered in the diaspora. The narrative takes place in the court of the King of

Persia, King Ahasuerus. Some think that it was written to explain and establish the Jewish festival

of Purim.

Session one: For such a time as this: Esther the queen — Voices in the king’s court – Session One sets the scene for the story of Esther and her adopted father, Mortecai. Esther

and Mortecai are Jews living under the rule of the Persian king, King Ahasuerus. When Esther

becomes the queen, her faith is tested. The Jews, those who have been carried off from their

homeland, struggle with living as strangers in a foreign land. In this session we will think about

how our culture may challenge our faith.

Session two: For such a time as this: Esther saves the Jews – Finding our voices – In Session Two we’ll learn how, when the Jews are threatened, Esther uses her strong faith and

the love of her people to embolden her to act. Through some clever schemes, intelligence and a

realistic assessment of her situation, Esther is able to save her people. “For such a time as this” is

Mortecai’s gentle reminder to Esther that God has placed her in the king’s court to use her voice.

How might God be reminding us of our need to find our voice as we live out our faith?

The St. John’s/American WELCA Bible Study group will meet on June 13th at 2:00 pm in Parish Hall at St. John’s, Sibley

with Carol Bielfeldt being our Bible Study Leader and Evelyn Andris serving as Hostess.

The St. John’s/American WELCA Bible Study group will meet on

July 11th at 2:00 pm at the home of Gerry Gallagher. Gerry will be the Bible Study Leader and Hostess.

The Women of ELCA of both American Lutheran and St. John’s, Sibley would love

to have you join us for these Bible Studies!

In celebration of our 75th Anniversary as a congregation, Pastor David Pavesic will be our Guest Preacher on Sunday, July 14th. Pastor Dave is currently serving Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Tucson, Arizona.

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St. John's Lutheran Church of Anchor Presents

The St. John's Players in

“The Church Basement Ladies Sequel.”

Dinner Theater for both shows: Saturday, June 8, 2019

Doors open at 6:00; Curtain at 7:30 Sunday June 9, 2019

Doors open at noon; Curtain at 1:30

Adults $20.00; 12 & under and 62 & over $15.00

For Reservations contact Jeff Dowell Call/Text (309) 369-4395 / Email: jeffreyjtd@yahoo.com

Little Achievers Academy will be hosting two weeks of Community Summer Camp. The first week will be June 17 – 21, and the second week will be July 8 – 12. These camps are for 3 to 5-year-olds and will be held in the mornings. If you are interested, please contact Kari DeFries at (217) 649-4003. We have an opportunity to serve our community on July 26th & 27th by helping with the food distribution of the Gibson City Food Pantry at the Hospital.

• 5 people are needed on Friday night, July 26th, 6:30 pm to set up for Saturday.

• 8-10 helpers are needed at 8:30 on Saturday morning, July 27th, to help with the food distribution – some to hand out the food, some to help clients take their food out to their cars, and some to help deliver food.

• The food pantry is open from 9:00 – 11:00 am, but most of the work is done by 10:00 if you cannot stay for the entire distribution.

• Please car pool or park in the northeast corner of the County Market parking lot. Please leave the Food Pantry parking lot for clients.

• The Food Pantry is located at 619 E. First Street (the old Alco building).

• Please help us feed those who are less fortunate by helping out for a couple of hours. If you have questions, please feel free to contact Gary Lutterbie at (217) 784-5647. Central/Southern Illinois Synod-Wide Mission Trip – Labor Day Weekend – from 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 31st through noon on Monday, Sept 2nd – The New and Renewing Congregations Committee is sponsoring a synod-wide mission trip to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. Make new friends across the synod while painting, cleaning, doing repair work, landscaping, worshiping, and sharing in a service project for the Mt. Vernon community! Registration is $25/individual or $20/person for congregational groups of 3 or more. For more information, including lodging options and to register online go to www.ccsis-elca.org/synodmissiontrip.

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Servants United Update . . . . . .

• Pastor Ed still talking up Servants United

Capturing the Spirit of Shared Ministry Pastor Ed Hudelson was recently invited to Wisconsin. The request came from the East Central Synod of Wisconsin and a group of seven congregations who are considering how to best share in ministry with one another. Pastor Hudelson was one of the founding pastors of the Servants United Parish in Central/Southern Illinois Synod and is passionate about the vision and potential of geographic parishes for both congregants and pastors who serve them. The Servants United Parish is six congregations in the northeast conference of C/SIS who have joined together to share opportunities and resources for ministry. When fully staffed the parish is served by three pastors (there is currently a vacancy due to Pastor Hudelson’s recent retirement). Together with his wife, Cheryle, Pastor Hudelson shared insights and encouragement and answered questions about the formation and operation of a geographic parish with about 35 people from seven congregations and synod staff. Director for Evangelical Mission, Pastor Jean DeVoll-Donaldson, expressed her gratitude for the Hudelsons’ willingness to travel (through snow in April!) and share the process of forming a parish saying, “We appreciated his sharing that for a geographic parish to gain traction, it must be the people of the parish that must embrace the possibilities—that pastors and synod staff cannot effectively be the drivers of establishing the partnerships necessary to carry on over time. Pastor Hudelson’s enthusiasm, provision of concrete examples, and wisdom born from experience were just what a group of our congregations needed at this stage in their consideration of potential partnership as a geographic parish.” Being church together means that we learn from one another and are willing to try new things. Thank you to Pastor Ed and Cheryle Hudelson for inspiring others to consider new approaches to ministry!

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Servants United Happenings . . . . . cont.

• Ministry Site Profiles for St. John’s, Anchor; Trinity, Chenoa; and Servant United Parish have been submitted to the Synod. There will be a Call Committee meeting on Tuesday, May 28th at Trinity, Chenoa at 7:00 pm. Our member of the Call Committee is Mike Eyer; Beth Meyer is the representative from St. John’s, Sibley.

• On Sunday, October 27th, there will be a joint Servants United Worship Service hosted by Community Lutheran in Cornell. The service will be held at Cornell Grade School.

• The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Sunday, June 30th, at 2:00 pm in Chenoa at Trinity Lutheran.

• Pulpit Exchange on June 30 – Pastor Chrissy at St. John’s, Sibley and American, GC Pastor Ruth Hansen at Community, Cornell and St. Peter’s, Dwight Pastor Jim at Trinity, Chenoa and St. John’s, Anchor

• Pulpit Exchange on July 28 – Pastor Ruth Hansen at St. John’s, Sibley and American, Gibson City Pastor Chrissy at Trinity, Chenoa and St. John’s, Anchor Pastor Jim at Community, Cornell and St. Peter’s, Dwight

Activities happening at other churches . . . .

➢ Women’s Bible Study on Book of Revelations led by Pastor Chrissy Salser at the home

of Cheryle Hudelson, 1307 Navaho, Pontiac, IL – every Friday at 9:30 am.

➢ A Second Helping (Church Basement Ladies) Dinner Theater (For additional

information, see page 7).

➢ Anniversary Picnic – Community, Cornell – Sunday, June 23rd, 10:30 am – meal at

noon – followed by music, games and activities.

➢ Joint Worship – Community, Cornell and St. Peter’s, Dwight – Humiston Woods in

Rowe, IL – 10:00 am – September 29th.

➢ Bible Study, 8:30 a.m., 2nd Wednesday of the month at Old Log Cabin for breakfast,

then to announced location for Bible Study, Community Lutheran Church (Cornell).

➢ Quilting, 8:00 – 11:00 a.m., 1st, 2nd & 3rd Tuesdays of the month, Community Lutheran

Church (Cornell).

➢ Quilting, 9:00 – Noon, 4th Monday and 4th Tuesday, St. Peter’s ELC (Dwight).

➢ Food Distribution and serve food to families, 3:00 – 5:30 p.m., 1st Monday of the month;

unload trailer of food from Midwest Food at Noon, St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran

Church (Dwight).

➢ “Sing for Joy” from St. Olaf College (MN) from 7:00 – 7:30 a.m. each Sunday morning

on WGCY 106.3 in Gibson City, sponsored by St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

(Anchor).

➢ “Moments of Grace” radio program featuring Pastor Jim Davis of Servants United on

WGCY 106.3 in Gibson City broadcasts every Sunday morning from 7:30 – 7:45 a.m.,

sponsored by American Lutheran Church (Gibson City).

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Worship Assistants – June*

Head Usher – Mike Eyer / Asst. Usher – Dave/Chandler Gregerson Altar Guild – Sharon Nunamaker and Vickie Reiners

June 2nd June 9th Coffee/Refreshments – Coffee/Refreshments – Acolyte – Willy Stevenson Acolyte – Kim Brucker Greeters – Phyllis Fouss and Greeters – Darrell & Sharon Nunamaker Evelyn Andris Asst. Minister – Margaret Stocker Asst. Minister – Ryan Tompkins Reader – Ron Andris Reader – Tina Anstrom Comm. Assts. – Lisa and Chandler Comm. Assts. – Tina Anstrom and Gregerson Willy Stevenson Offering Counter – Kevin & Lori Buhs Offering Counters – Ron & Evelyn Andris Sound Tech – Tom Brucker Sound Tech – Ron Andris

June 16th June 23rd Coffee/Refreshments – Coffee/Refresh – Acolyte – Willy Stevenson Acolyte – Kim Brucker Greeters – Tobie & Darcy Thompson Greeters – Darlene Kane and Asst. Minister – Reagan Tompkins Betty Brokate Reader – Willy Stevenson Asst. Minister – Kim Brucker Comm. Assts. – Jewel Lewis and Reader – Cynthia Davis Misti Tompkins Comm. Asst. – Lori Buhs and Offering Counter – Willy Stevenson Willy Stevenson Sound Tech – Ron Andris Offering Counters – Darrell & Sharon Nunamaker Sound Tech – Tom Brucker

June 30th

Coffee/Refreshments – Acolyte – Willy Stevenson Greeters – Allen & Bev Baker Asst. Minister – Jim Spangler Reader – Ryan Tompkins Comm. Assts. – Sharon Stroh and Willy Stevenson Offering Counters – Kevin & Lori Buhs Sound Tech – Ron Andris

*If you are unable to attend church on the date listed, please trade with someone or find a replacement, and contact the Church Office so the

change can be noted in the bulletin. Thank you for sharing your time and talents to enhance our worship experience!

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Worship Assistants – July*

Head Usher – Gary Lutterbie / Assistant Usher – Mike Peters Altar Guild – Barb Bielfeldt and Mary Ann Kreitzer

July 7th July 14th Coffee/Refreshments – Coffee/Refreshments – Acolyte – Kim Brucker Acolyte – Willy Stevenson Greeters – Ron & Willy Stevenson Greeters – Brad & Kelly Tompkins Asst. Minister – Cynthia Davis Asst. Minister – Jewel Lewis Reader – Sharon Stroh Reader – Mary Ann Kreitzer Comm. Assts. – Julie DeFries and Comm. Assts. – Mike Bleich and Mike Eyer Willy Stevenson Offering Counters – Ron & Evelyn Andris Offering Counters – Darrell & Sharon Sound Tech – Tom Brucker Nunamaker Sound Tech – Ron Andris

July 21st July 28th Coffee/Refreshments – Coffee/Refreshments – Acolyte – Kim Brucker Acolyte – Willy Stevenson Greeters – Lois Rhodes and Greeters – Jon & Stephanie Carol Boyle Rosenbeck Asst. Minister – Willy Stevenson Asst. Minister – Ryan Tompkins Reader – April Nettleton Reader – Margaret Stocker Comm. Assts. – Rodney Schrack and Comm. Asst. – Darrell & Sharon Lisa Gregerson Nunamaker Offering Counter – April Nettleton Offering Counter – Willy Stevenson Sound Tech – Tom Brucker Sound Tech – Ron Andris

American Evangelical Lutheran Church – Gibson City, Illinois

Church Council Minutes ~ April 17, 2019

*If you are unable to attend church on the date listed, please trade with someone or find a replacement, and contact the Church Office so the

change can be noted in the bulletin. Thank you for sharing your time and talents to enhance our worship experience!

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Members Present: Mike Eyer, Barbara Bielfeldt, Darcy Thompson, Gary Lutterbie, Rona Eyer, Lori Buhs, Jim Spangler, Pastor Jim Davis. Excused: Darlene Kane

Call to order: President Mike Eyer called the meeting to order at 6:34 PM.

Prayer and Devotions: Pastor Davis led the Council in devotions and prayer.

Reports: Secretary: The 03/2019 Council minutes were available for Council members’ approval and were approved by email vote.

Treasurer: Darcy reported the 04/17/2019 checkbook balance is $42.15. The 03/31/2019 detail Financial Reports are posted on the bulletin board on the west wall of the Parish Hall. A discussion was held on missing LLA items, paper towels and toilet paper and having a locked supply cabinet/checkout system before the next school year.

Financial Secretary/Little Achievers Academy Liaison: Lori Buhs reported she attended the Little Achievers Academy Board meeting on 4/14/2019. Nineteen students have enrolled for next year’s four year old class. The morning class is full. Pre-K graduation will be 5/14/2019. Summer camps will be 6/17 thru 6/21 and 7/8 thru 7/12. They asked for permission to add playground equipment. Lori Buhs moved to allow LAA to add playground equipment. Jim Spangler seconded and the motion passed by voice vote. LAA requested permission to place new flooring (1/2 carpet and 1/2 linoleum) in the classroom. This will be paid by LAA. Barb Bielfeldt moved to allow LAA to place new flooring in their classroom. Rona Eyer seconded and the motion carried by voice vote.

Deacon: Rona Eyer reported she and Mike donated the new tissue dispensers in the pews. She would like to include in the newsletter a reminder for members to use the offering envelopes and can ask her or Gerry for a supply to take home. She will look into the difference in cost of attendance cards versus pew pads. She updated the Council on how the Thrivent grants and Choice Dollars work. It was suggested a Thrivent representative speak to the congregation on this subject. She will check with Thrivent rep Larry Burton.

Parish Education: Pastor Jim reported Darlene Kane is interested in a group reading of a book by Max Lucado. She would like a notice placed in the Newsletter when members would like to meet.

Trustee: Gary Lutterbie reported two new smoke alarms donated by Jim Spangler have been installed. Mike Bleich had Delbert Tjarks overhaul the lawn mower for the coming year.

Vice President: Jim Spangler is asking for suggestions for activities the Congregation would like to do. Perhaps field trips or attending a Corn Belters game could be done.

President: Mike Eyer suggested the storage rooms need to be cleaned and organized. Darcy wants to have a cleaning day in August and the storage rooms could be included at that time.

Team Reports: Christian Fellowship: We will have an Easter Breakfast at 9 and worship at 10:30 on 4/21/2019. Sibley St John’s will have worship at 7:00 and breakfast after. Pastor will hold services at the Annex at 1:30 and Heritage Manor at 2:30 with patients and families. Anchor St John’s is hosting a luncheon on 4/27/2019 and Cynthia Davis will be giving Devotions.

Community Resource: Our church helped with the Food Pantries on 03/23/2019 and 04/13/2019. We will be helping with the Pantry sometime after July.

Prayer Team: The Prayer Team meets the 1st and 3rd Thursday’s of the month.

Stewardship: Nothing new to report at this time.

Pastor’s Report: Pastor handed out a summary of his Pastor’s Report for March, 2019. The report is on the Church bulletin board.

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Pastor Davis was asked to lead the Lutheran Men in Mission – OYTL Retreat in Omaha, Nebraska on 3/14/2019 thru 3/17/2019. He received approval from Servants United President Larry Dodds, American Lutheran Council President Mike Eyer and the Council Presidents of St John’s Sibley and Anchor. Gary Keim’s funeral was on Saturday, 3/16/2019. Pastor met with the Keim family to arrange the funeral and they approved Pastor Nick Carlson of New Beginnings Church to officiate at Gary’s funeral in the absence of Pastor Davis.

As interim Pastor for Anchor St John’s, he is meeting with the Ridgeview Pastors.

Pastor will have Maundy Thursday services at Sibley St John’s at 6:30 PM. Good Friday services will be at American Lutheran with the Presbyterian Church at 7:00.

Pastor officiated at Gary Keim’s private graveside burial on Sunday afternoon on 4/14/2019.

A Befriender’s meeting will be held on 4/24/2019 at 8:30 AM. They hope to have programs up and running by end of year. Colin and Victoria Gregerson Lasater request to have their son Woods baptized on 5/26/2019. Confirmation will be done in June or July.

Pastor Chrissy is having foot surgery in Rockford on 4/23/2019.

Pastor Jim will have hip replacement surgery on 4/29/2019 at 9:00 AM. Eleven Pastors volunteered to help out during his recuperation. Pastor Christine McNeil will officiate at our 5/5/2019 service and Pastor Emil Blobaum will officiate on 5/12/2019.

Pastor and Cynthia are planning a cruise for 1/9/2020 thru 1/25/2020 and will miss two Sunday services.

Approval of Reports: Gary Lutterbie moved to approve all reports as read. Lori Buhs seconded and motion passed by voice vote.

Servants United Parish: Rotation Sunday will be 4/28/2019 with Pastor Jim doing Anchor and Chenoa. Pastor Ruth Hanson will do Sibley/Gibson City. Dwight and Cornell will have a lesson and carol service. Servants United Parish will be submitting the paper work for the Pastor’s Call. Pastor Chrissy and Pastor Jim will be the interim Pastors.

Darcy Thompson’s 3 year term on the Servants United Parish Council will be ending in February, 2020. She will not be representing our Church for another three year term after that date. She feels it is important that others from our Congregation be more involved with the Parish and asked the Council to spread the word of the open position. The Servants United Parish Treasurer is an appointed position so her replacement will not automatically take over the Treasurer’s job. If agreed by the Servants United Parish Council, she could continue being the Treasurer without being on the SUP Council.

Old Business: The Council luncheon with retiring members Curt Miller and Ryan Tompkins will meet at 12:30 at Burgers and Beer on Sunday, 4/28.

New Business: None

Next Meeting: The next meeting will be on Wednesday, 5/15/2019 at 6:30 PM.

Adjourn: Jim Spangler moved to adjourn. Darcy Thompson seconded and motion passed by voice vote at 9:04 PM.

The meeting was closed by reciting the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully Submitted ~ Barbara Bielfeldt, Secretary

THESE MINUTES WERE APPROVED BY CHURCH COUNCIL ON MAY 15, 2019

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June 2019

1 Saturday

2 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am

3 Monday

4 Tuesday

5 Wednesday

6 Thursday Pastors Prayer Meeting – 8:00 am – Country Kettle Prayer Team – Comfort Room – 1:00 pm 32nd Annual Synod Assembly – The BOS Center in Springfield, Illinois

7 Friday 32nd Annual Synod Assembly – The BOS Center in Springfield, Illinois

8 Saturday 32nd Annual Synod Assembly – The BOS Center in Springfield, Illinois

9 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am

10 Monday

11 Tuesday Bible Study at Holly Brook – 2:30 pm

12 Wednesday Quilting – Parish Hall – 9:00 am Worship with Holy Communion – Heritage Health Care – 2:00 pm

13 Thursday Pastors Prayer Meeting – 8:00 am – Country Kettle WELCA Bible Study – American/St. John’s, Sibley – St. John’s Parish Hall – 2:00 pm

14 Friday Flag Day

15 Saturday

16 Sunday** Father’s Day Worship – 10:30 am

17 Monday Little Achievers Summer Camp – June 17th – 21st

18 Tuesday Little Achievers Summer Camp – June 17th – 21st

19 Wednesday Little Achievers Summer Camp – June 17th – 21st Church Council Meeting – Parish Hall – 6:30 pm

20 Thursday Little Achievers Summer Camp – June 17th – 21st Pastors Prayer Meeting – 8:00 am – Country Kettle Prayer Team – Comfort Room – 1:00 pm

21 Friday First Day of Summer Little Achievers Summer Camp – June 17th – 21st

22 Saturday

23 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am

24 Monday

25 Tuesday Pastor at Ford County M-Team Meeting – Noon

26 Wednesday

27 Thursday Pastors Prayer Meeting – 8:00 am – Country Kettle

28 Friday

29 Saturday

30 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am – Pulpit Exchange Servants United Council Meeting – Chenoa – 2:00 pm

** Each Sunday, tune in to WGCY Radio, 106.3 FM for “Sing for Joy” from St. Olaf College (MN) from 7:00 – 7:30 am, sponsored by St. John’s, Anchor; and “Moments of Grace” featuring Pastor Jim from 7:30 – 7:45 am, sponsored by American, Gibson City.

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Cleaning House? Our Annual Garage Sale is scheduled for August 22, 23 and 24th in Parish Hall. Start saving those priceless treasurers for the sale!

July 2019

1 Monday

2 Tuesday

3 Wednesday

4 Thursday Independence Day

5 Friday

6 Saturday

7 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am Annex Worship – 1:30 pm Heritage Healthcare Worship – 2:30 pm

8 Monday Little Achievers Summer Camp – July 8th – 12th

9 Tuesday Little Achievers Summer Camp – July 8th – 12th Bible Study at Holly Brook – 2:30 pm

10 Wednesday Little Achievers Summer Camp – July 8th – 12th Quilting – Parish Hall – 9:00 am Worship with Holy Communion – Heritage Health Care – 2:00 pm

11 Thursday Little Achievers Summer Camp – July 8th – 12th

Pastors Prayer Meeting – 8:00 am – Country Kettle WELCA Bible Study – St. John’s Lutheran, Sibley – 2 pm – at the home of Gerry Gallagher

12 Friday Little Achievers Summer Camp – July 8th – 12th

13 Saturday

14 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am / Pastor David Pavesic, Guest Preacher

15 Monday

16 Tuesday

17 Wednesday Church Council Meeting – Parish Hall – 6:30 pm

18 Thursday Pastors Prayer Meeting – 8:00 am – Country Kettle Prayer Team – Comfort Room – 1:00 pm

19 Friday

20 Saturday

21 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am

22 Monday

23 Tuesday Pastor at Ford County M-Team Meeting – Noon

24 Wednesday

25 Thursday Pastors Prayer Meeting – 8:00 am – Country Kettle

26 Friday

27 Saturday

28 Sunday** Worship – 10:30 am – Pulpit Exchange

29 Monday

30 Tuesday

31 Wednesday

** Each Sunday, tune in to WGCY Radio, 106.3 FM for “Sing for Joy” from St. Olaf College (MN) from 7:00 – 7:30 am, sponsored by St. John’s, Anchor; and “Moments of Grace” featuring Pastor Jim from 7:30 – 7:45 am, sponsored by American, Gibson City.

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American Lutheran Church

905 East First Street Gibson City, IL 60936 217-784-4841 americanluthgc@sbcglobal.net www.americanlutherangc.com

Office Hours: Gerry – Tue, Wed & Thurs – 9 am – noon

Pastor Jim – Thursday – 9 am – noon / Other times by appointment (Pastor’s day off is Monday)

Church: 217-784-4841 / Parsonage: 217-784-5444 / Cell 309-826-4968

June/July 2019 Newsletter

Pastor – Jim Davis Parish Secretary – Gerry Gallagher

President – Mike Eyer Vice President – Jim Spangler

Secretary – Barb Bielfeldt Treasurer – Darcy Thompson

Financial Secretary – Lori Buhs Deacon – Rona Eyer

Parish Education – Darlene Kane Trustee & Council Representative – Gary Lutterbie

Trustees – Mike Peters and Rodney Schrack