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December, 2015 I Monthly Newsletter of Hope Lutheran Church I Wake Forest, NC

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Worship Services Advent SERMON Series - Exploring the Symbols of Revelation Wednesday Evenings, December 2 & 9 at 7:00PM Saturday & Sunday Mornings, November 28-December 20 During the season of Advent, as we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, we also look forward to his second coming. The book of Revelation, as difficult as it can be to understand because of its many symbols, actually provides a reassuring description of the End Times and the joy of Christ’s return. During Advent, we will explore six different symbols in Revelation that speak to some aspect of life we are all living today as Christians. We might live in an ever- changing world, but God gives us an unchanging vision of life everlasting with Christ in the Book of Revelation.

Christmas Pageant - The Loaned Manger Wednesday, December 16 at 7:00PM Everyone is invited to see the high-spirited, but meaningful, look at Christmas through the lens of the early Wild West in this year’s pageant, “The Loaned Manger.” For more details, see page 14 of this newsletter.

Choral Cantata December 13 at 8:30 & 11:00AM The Cantata, “A Mother’s Treasure,” will be presented on Sunday, December 13 during the 8:30 & 11:00AM worship services by the Senior Choir.

Carol Service of Holy Communion December 20 at 8:30 & 11:00AM A traditional Sunday service containing well-known Christmas carols, Advent and Nativity Bible readings, and Holy Communion.

Christmas Eve Services December 24; 3:00, 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, & 11:00PM Christmas Eve at Hope Lutheran Church celebrates the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with 5 different-styled services to meet your worship needs. You’re invited to worship with Hope this Christmas Eve! Children’s Christmas Services – 3:00PM & 5:00PM. “’Twas The Light Before Christmas” service is designed for

younger children and families with lots of interaction, songs, and humor. Family Candlelight Services - 7:00PM & 9:00PM. This family service contains a Children’s Message, Christmas hymns,

and the Nursery is provided for children ages 0-2. Traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight Service of Holy Communion - 11:00PM. This traditional late service contains

Christmas hymns, candlelight, and Holy Communion. Pre-service Christmas music begins at 10:30PM.

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FELLOWSHIP & SERVICE Altar Care Christmas Decorating Deck the Halls…at Hope! Altar Care Christmas Decorating will take place on Saturday, December 5 at 9:00AM by Altar Care volunteers, assisted by the Men of Hope. All are welcome to come help prepare Hope for the Holy season.

Christmas Poinsettias will adorn the chancel and windows at Hope. They may be purchased in memory or

honor of loved ones. Sign up at the Welcome Desk in the Narthex in December. The cost is $10 each with checks payable to Hope, earmarked “poinsettias.” The poinsettias may be taken home after the 11:00PM Christmas Eve Service.

Annual Christmas Angel Tree Outreach Angel Tree Begins: Wednesday, December 2 Gifts Due at Hope: Sunday, December 13 Each year Hope Lutheran Church adopts families in need for Christmas. Gift and food donations are delivered to these families for the holiday. This year we have a shorter timeline to meet the requests from Social Services, so all gifts need to be at Hope Lutheran by Sunday, December 13.

To participate, select an Angel ornament from the Christmas tree in the Narthex. The request from a family member will be on the front of the angel and specific instructions for the gift return will be on the back. The families are so appreciative of what we do for them. Contact Bette Barrett at 919-554-4951 if you would like to help distribute gifts.

Annual Christmas Cookie Exchange December 13 after the 11:00AM service on the Adult Education Floor, room 301 ‘Tis the season of special gatherings and Christmas cheer, a time to get busy baking; Hope’s Cookie Exchange is near. An afternoon full of laughter and friends; with plenty of homemade cookies and bars, to take home in the end!

Come join in the fun, fellowship, and cookies! Bring your favorite Christmas cookies (4 dozen in packages of six) to exchange for some other great cookies. Sign up in the Narthex or contact Nancy Repak at 919-279-3801 or kapernan@gmail.com. Don’t forget to bring a few copies of your recipe and few extra cookies to share!

NEW VERSION OF THE Live Nativity Saturday, December 12 at 6:30PM and Sunday, December 13 at 7:00PM Mark your calendar for a live, in-person presentation of the Christmas story here at Hope. On Saturday, December 12 at 6:30PM and Sunday, December 13 at 7:00PM, the Bible story of Christ’s birth will be shared on a child-friendly level. Saturday's Live Nativity will take place immediately following the worship service, and Sunday's performance will follow the Children's Ministry event. Each presentation will be approximately 20 minutes long. Refreshments will be served. All of Hope’s families and friends are welcome! Children are invited to bring a canned food item to help feed the hungry in our community, and place it in the stable at the end of the Live Nativity. Cookies are also needed, please sign up in the Narthex. Than k you!

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PASTOR PULS’

MESSAGE...DON'T MISS IT!

I saw this picture on a social media site recently. A bunch of teenagers are sitting in front of a magnificent, world-famous artistic masterpiece. They're completely captivated, though, by their cell phone screens. Rembrandt's Night Watch? They're missing it! This month, many of us may end up doing the very same thing. The days before Christmas are always so busy and hectic. Shopping, travel, baking, lights, wrapping, family obligations, trees, presents ... December can be a crazy time! We can get caught up, and completely captivated, in the whirlwind of pre-Christmas activities, can't we? Just like the young people in the picture, we can easily lose focus on what's really important. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, was born for you. Set aside some precious time this month to focus on that magnificent truth. Ponder it. Reflect on it. Talk to God about it. Worship God because of it. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, was born for you. Consider what this gift means for your life here on earth, and for your life in the world to come. Think about what your life would be if it hadn't happened. Imagine what our world would be like today if God had not given his Son to be our Savior. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, was born for you. Make sure that you, and your family, are focused in these days before Christmas on this glorious truth. You don't have to give up any of your other December obligations and traditions. Just keep a healthy spiritual focus in your home this month. Celebrate the greatest gift of all time. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, was born for you. Don't miss it! Pastor Wayne Puls wpuls@hopelutheranwf.org 919-554-8109

CONTACT

INFORMATION

Hope Lutheran Church & Preschool

3525 Rogers Road Wake Forest, NC 27587

919-554-8109, phone 919-554-0412, fax

Preschool 919-453-0388, phone

919-453-0319, fax

www.hopelutheranwf.org

WEEKEND

WORSHIP

SERVICES

Saturday at 5:30PM Sunday at 8:30AM & 11:00AM Nursery and Children’s Church

provided at all services

SUNDAY

CHRISTIAN

EDUCATION

Sunday School for

ages 3 – grade 4

Youth Bible Classes for

grades 5 – 12

Adult Bible Studies

Nursery and beginning

Sunday School provided for

ages 2 and under.

WEDNESDAY

NIGHT ALIVE

January 6, 2016

5:30 – 6:15: Dinner 5:30 – 6:30: Youth Praise Team 5:30 – 6:30: Beginner Handbells

6:00 – 6:30: Youth Handbells 6:30-7:45: Adult Handbell Choir

6:30 – 7:30: Children, Youth, and Adult Education

7:45 – 9:00: Senior Choir

The people of Hope Lutheran Church proclaim and live the Word and love of Christ. Mission Statement

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The staff of Hope Lutheran Church and Preschool express our thanks for the

privilege of serving and wish everyone a blessed Christmas!

Church Staff

Pastor Puls, Pastor Upchurch, Pastor Lineberger, Pastor Wagner, Krista Young, Beth Agner,

Shannon Janosko, Amy Elder, Carlin O’Brien, Jan McCluskey,

Barbara DeMarco, Steve Ebberts, & Paul Hieter

Music & Media Staff

Rob Varner, Joe Walters, Kathy Vockeroth, Tim Stroupe,

Ray Sharpstene, Michael Case, & Michael Reives

Preschool Staff Regina Fisher, Angela Baker, Sara Cutler, Tara Cook, Susan Kennedy,

Jamie Pless, Fran Sowisdral, Deborah Burns, Lisa Dotson, Amanda DeCilles, Stephanie Fowler, Christine Murphy, Amber Perry, Stefanie Saba, Crystal

Bright, Jannelle Pizzola, Denise Christopoulos, Jen Swearingen,

Jill Dillow, Amy Reigle, Carly Turman, Kathy DiPillo, Jackie Gardner, & Robin

DeSimone

Xplore Staff Billie Kay Roland, Bonnie Petersilge,

Kelly Friend, Melissa Replogle, Natasha Hoyle, & Joshua Clink,

& Cassandra Davis

Little Blessings Staff Erin Ames, Lindsay Mitchell, Angie

Meyer, Melissa Replogle, Kate Cerulla, & Tonya Watt

Nursery Staff

Erin Ames, Lauren Hugelmaier, Julie Gundry, Cynthia Leonard, Heleen Bloomer, Carly Turman,

Angie Meyer, Melissa Replogle, & Kathy Dipillo

Christmas Greetings from the Staff

Celebrate Hope’s 19th

Anniversary December 5 & 6; all services Every member of Hope, along with members of the community, are encouraged to join in giving thanks to God as we celebrate our congregation’s 19th Anniversary at our worship services on the weekend of December 5 & 6, 2015. When we think back to Hope’s beginnings, and look at what God has done here over the years, we certainly have much to celebrate! To God be the glory!

2016 Offering Envelopes Instead of asking you to pick up the familiar annual box of offering envelopes, your envelopes for 2016 will be mailed to you on a monthly basis. Watch for your first set of envelopes toward the end of December. Electronic giving options are available at Hope, as well. Please contact the church office if we can help you in any way.

2016 Calendars! Calendars are still one of the best tools for tracking our busy lives but with so many choices out there, it’s hard to decide which one to display in your home or office. Before you buy another calendar highlighting your favorite TV show or pictures of places you’ve never visited, stop by the Narthex and purchase what promises to be a “local” conversation piece!

Team TRIVIA NITE Saturday, January 30, 2016 Looking for an evening of laughter, fun, and fellowship? Willing to stretch your brain a little bit? Mark your calendars for Hope's next Team Trivia Nite on Saturday, January 30. Cool prizes, silent auction, free snacks and beverages, and more. A great time promised for all!

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Finally, did you get something from Krista re: her call decision? I'd like there to be something in there about that. Please include a "Save

the Date" notice regarding the commissioning service for her and Joel -- date's been changed to January 17, as you know, during the

11:00 AM service (reception to follow).

Year-End Appeal

November 15 - December 15, 2015

How Can You

Help?

If you're on pace with your 2015 pledge (regular offerings and/or

Hope STRONG campaign), and are doing all you can, just pray for God

to keep blessing our ministry. Thank you!

If you're behind on your 2015

pledge, can you try to catch up in the next month? These additional donations will go directly toward Hope's three important "growth

initiatives." Thank you!

If you've been blessed, and are

able to make a special contribution during the next month, your gift will directly

support our "growth initiatives." Just put it in your offering

envelope, or mark it "YEAR-END APPEAL."

Thank you!

Mission Update 2015 has been a great year for mission and ministry at Hope! There are many new members, 89 adults and 48 children, the preschool continues to grow, Summer VBS had an incredible 445 children, and our attendance remains strong with the 11:00AM service regularly filled to capacity.

When it comes to stewardship & finances, 2015 has been a unique & interesting year. For many years, Hope has relied on ongoing campaigns to supplement the annual operating budget. By 2018, the goal is to eliminate the need for Campaign Gifts to supplement Hope’s operating budget.

In 2015, we asked members to "switch" their annual campaign gifts to regular church offerings, and many have done so! Have you made the switch?

How’s the switch going in 2015? Mixed results! Let’s take a look.

Our offerings, at the end of October, are $168,544 ahead of last year's pace. But when it comes to Hope’s 2015 total giving (regular offerings + campaign gifts), we’re running behind what’s needed to sustain our budget and keep Hope’s ministry strong. Here's how our 2015 total giving breaks down, after ten months. Regular offerings received so far are $59,209 short of our

current expected 2015 target figure. Hope STRONG campaign gifts are $16,233 behind pledges. Current $75,442 total giving shortfall for 2015.

How are we, as a church, going to respond to this situation? After all, we’re not just facing a challenging financial problem. We’re also looking at an exciting mission opportunity! Take a quick look with me.

Mission Opportunity Three important "growth initiatives" were included in our 2015 budget planning. We haven't spent a penny yet in 2015 in these areas, though, due to concerns with giving. Outreach ($10,000): targeted mailings to Wake Forest newcomers;

part-time staffing for expanded visitor follow-up. Worship ($10,000): preliminary staffing and resources to develop a fourth

weekly worship service at Hope. Cash Reserves ($16,000): ensure that 2015 budget year ends up in the

black, to further stabilize Hope’s finances after two full years of making monthly interest and principal mortgage payments (debt reduction).

Do these “growth initiatives” strike a chord with you? If so, be a part of the mission solution! Respond with bold faith and with eager gratitude for all of God’s blessings in our lives and in our church! Working together, we can take a huge bite out of that $75,442 total giving shortfall over the next month. Our year-end appeal is taking aim at that target, and helping make Hope’s mission possible.

Total Giving (end of October)

Expected

Received

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2016 Flower Chart The 2016 Flower Chart is located on the wall in the church office hallway. You may sign up to donate flowers in memory or in honor of loved ones or to observe special occasions. Flowers are $40.00 with checks earmarked “flowers.”

Holiday Closings The Church office will be closed on December 24 -25 and January 1, 2016. The Preschool will be closed on December 21 - January 1, 2016. Xplore Track Out Camp will be closed December 21-25 & January 1, 2016. Little Blessings will be closed December 21-January 1, 2016.

Year-End Gifts All gifts must be postmarked or received by Thursday,

December 31, 2015 in order to be included in your 2015

year-end record of giving. Please complete your pledges

by the end of the year. If you have questions about your

giving, contact Jan McCluskey at 919-554-8109 or

jmccluskey@hopelutheranwf.org. Thank you for all your

gifts and contributions in 2015!

Moved? Change Emails? Have you moved? Changed your email? Please contact Amy Elder at aelder@hopelutheranwf.org or 919-554-8109 with any changes to your family’s contact information.

Office Notes...

Expected

Received

ADULT EDUCATION Sunday Mornings, 9:45-10:45am; Visitors welcome!

ADVENT OF THE SAVIOR December 6-27, 4 weeks Location: Adult Education Floor, room 301 Leaders: Mike Featham, Pastor Puls, Pastor Lineberger The weeks preceding Christmas can be one of the most difficult times for us to focus on what’s most important- the birth of our Savior! We feel the weight of shopping for gifts, preparing for guests, decorating the house and attending parties all alongside our regular busy lives. Sometimes, it feels more like work than celebration.

For many of us, it takes great intentionality to make space for Christ during the Christmas season. Maybe that’s why the Scriptures offer so many angels from which to view the birth of Christ- the perspectives of his parents, his aunt and uncle, shepherds doing a day’s work, and even far off Magi. Each week, this Bible study takes a look at one of these perspectives and offers a chance to discuss how we can apply it to our lives today. Join us in the hopes of getting a fresh vision of the coming Christ!

THE REAL ST. NICK December 13, one session only Location: Adult Education Floor, room 302; Leader: Pastor Lew This single-session video-based Bible Study, hosted by the Rev. Dr. Ken Klaus— Speaker Emeritus of The Lutheran Hour - examines a man who, next to Jesus Christ, is the most visible figure during the holidays - St. Nicholas or Santa Claus - as we know him in western culture. Dating back to the third century, St. Nick is attributed with many benevolent and charitable acts of kindness and generosity. In the end what St. Nick has set down for us all is a lifestyle of service and going the distance for the Lord Jesus Christ.

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Small group ministry PRIMETIMER EVENTS

Christmas Party December 6 at 5:30PM Andy and Bette Barrett will host the annual Primetimer Christmas Party at their home. All PrimeTimers are invited to attend. Please contact Andy and Bette to let them know you are attending and what you are bringing, at andy27609@yahoo.com or 919-554-4951.

Wreath Laying Ceremony December 12 at Noon The PrimeTimers will attend the Wreaths Across America Ceremony at the Raleigh National Cemetery on Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh, on Saturday, December 12, 2015 at 12 noon. They will then head over to the restaurant at the State Farmer's Market to enjoy a fellowship lunch. Please contact Conrad and Lynda Watson at 919-761-1587 or watson.lynda@gmail.com for directions to the cemetery and arrangements for lunch.

CARDS AT HOPE BRIDGE GROUP

December 14 at 1:00PM Our next meeting will be the annual

cookie exchange event, so please bring 2 or 3 dozen of your favorite

Christmas cookies to share. They can be homemade or purchased. We will enjoy them while we play and then have enough left so that everyone

can go home with a plate of goodies. Contact Betty McAlear at 919-554-

9081 or bmcalear@nc.rr.com if you plan to come.

PINOCHLE GROUP - December 7 &

December 21 at 1:00PM at Hope Contact Darlene McKenney at

919-389-5422 or darmckenney@embarqmail.com or

Peggy Koehler if you plan to play. All skill levels welcome!

Night To Shine 2016 Save the Date: February 12, 2016 from 6:30-9:00PM Night to Shine, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, is a wonderful Prom event that celebrates God’s love for people with special needs. Last year 44 churches in 26 states and 3 countries participated. Hope was the only Lutheran church on the list. Worldwide, there were 15,000 volunteers and 7,000 honored guests joining together to celebrate. WOW!

Hope Lutheran will be a host sight again, and plans have already begun! If you would like to be a part of the planning team, please contact the church office at 919-554-8109.

Please mark your calendar to volunteer during the event. Volunteers are needed to host guests, work a station, set/clean up. Registration will begin in December, watch the bulletin for specific dates. Questions about volunteering can be directed to Bonnie Petersilge at bpetersilg@aol.com or Paula Reeves at PJR1022@live.com.

NEW THIS YEAR!!! Shop to Shine Saturday, January 23 from 1-3PM This year we will add a shopping day for female guests to try on donated dresses. Bring prom type dresses to Hope before and after services, January 16 and 17… all sizes and styles are needed. Volunteers are needed to help our guests feel welcome, find the right dress, and try new hairstyles. Please contact Shannon Janosko at sjanosko@hopelutheranwf.org if you’d like to volunteer during the event.

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OUTREACH & MISSION MINISTRIES

Adopt-A-Highway Saturday, December 19 at 9:00AM As part of Hope Lutheran’s commitment to serving the Wake Forest community, Hope has adopted Forestville Road, between Rogers Road and Burlington Mills Road. All volunteers 12 and older are asked to meet at Hope. Orange vests, gloves and water provided. Questions? Contact Jeff Vukovich at 919-556-9174 or jeff.vukovich@gmail.com.

Tri-Area Ministry

Food Donations The Feeding the Faith Small Group collects non-perishables for Tri-Area Ministry Food Pantry, which provides food for the needy in the community. In December, the food collection is canned meat and/or instant mashed potatoes. Please support Tri-Area by placing your nonperishable donations in the donation bin in Café.

Alms Fund at Hope Did you know? Donations are accepted and are used to provide financial support to families in our congregation. Just write “Alms Fund” in the memo line to have your donation allocated to this important ministry.

Brown Bag Ministry A huge thank you to confirmation, youth and pre-school families for your donations to the Thanksgiving Dinner Baskets.

Help Brown Bag say Merry Christmas!! Please drop signed Christmas cards in the Brown Bag bin in the café area before December 19. Cards will be handed out that day with our lunches.

Join us on Saturday, December 19 at 11:00AM to make and deliver lunches to area families in need. The group is usually finished about 1:00PM and all ages are welcome. Questions? Contact Nancy Repak at kapernan@gmail.com.

Thank You Thank you to all who have volunteered with the many opportunities for local

Outreach in 2015 on behalf of Hope Lutheran Church. There are many needs

in the community and I encourage all Hope’s members to step up to serve … Hope’s service does makes a difference! Please contact me if you learn of other

opportunities for Hope to serve. Shannon Janosko, Outreach Coordinator

HopeChest Thank You HopeChest Ministry offers free clothing

and small housewares to the community each quarter. The ministry depends on donations and volunteers from Hope

members. Thanks to generous donations and many volunteers the ministry touched the lives of many people in the community in 2015!

The next HopeChest event is scheduled

for Saturday, January 30, 2016.

HABITAT BUILDING INDEPENDENCE PROJECT INFORMATION Volunteers Needed! Construction is scheduled to begin December 11 with a Wall Raising Ceremony at 9:00am at the site and a worship service on the site on Sunday, December 13 at 3:00PM. The address of the site is 2610 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh 27603. For questions please contact Lynroy Thomas at lynroyt@nc.rr.com. Hope is scheduled to volunteer on Saturday, January 9, 2016 and the Men of Hope will be providing lunch for all volunteers. Volunteers are also needed on Thursdays and Fridays. Sign up today at http://vhub.at/lakewheeler or Hope’s website at www.hopelutheranwf.org.

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Touched By Hope 2015 Highlights On Saturday, November 7, 2015 the buildings of Hope Lutheran Church were transformed into a free medical/dental clinic for the fifth year in a row! In addition to offering free medical and dental care, Touched By Hope had a huge clothing closet, food pantry, children’s books, a warm meal, haircuts, family photos, manicures, facials and prayer partners for over 300 guests and their families. Thank you!! The clinic services were free to guests, financially supported through donations, a t-shirt fundraiser, and a significant monetary gift from the Wake Forest Koinonia Foundation. Additionally, many organizations donated money, materials, or services of some kind. To see a list of all of the supporting sponsors and donors, please visit Hope’s website at www.hopelutheranwf.org, selecting “Get Involved, Community Outreach.” Thank you!! Over 180 volunteers served, along with numerous professionals from our community. Many were blessed to be able to experience God’s impact in some very amazing ways - both in meeting the needs of those in our community, and in providing opportunity for the people of Hope Lutheran to be blessed by serving others for his glory. Thank you!!

For God’s Glory (pictured right)

Guests shopped at Hope Chest and were able to fill their closet thanks to your generous donations of clothing and accessories!

Children’s books and Bibles were piled high! Guests were able to bring home books for their children as early Christmas presents or just for fun.

Guests were given bags full of non-perishables, as well as fresh produce locally-grown . Numerous drives helped collect 250 bags worth of food.

Although we were unable to offer an optical clinic this year, we gave away over 50 pairs of reading glasses.

The dental clinic served 100 guests. The Dental Bus remained open until after 4:00 p.m. What a blessing!

Fresh haircuts were given in the spa section along with manicures and facials. Guests left feeling pampered and renewed!

Although it was wet, it didn’t stop the guests from coming to receive services they needed. Armed with umbrellas, Hope was ready to welcome everyone!

This year’s clinic theme came from Micah 6:8, where we are told what the good Lord desires of us, “To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” Job well-done!

Family portraits were a popular stop for many families. It was the first time that some families had such a nice keepsake for their mantle.

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Youth events Youth ministry at Hope Lutheran focuses on

friendships, faith, and service. See below for all the

exciting events in December, remember, friends are

always welcome!!

YOUTH CHRISTMAS PARTIES It’s time to celebrate with your friends at Hope! Bring a snack, $5 wrapped gift, and friends to the party for your group. Don’t forget to wear your craziest (or borrow your Grandma’s) Christmas attire! To sign up for a party, visit www.hopelutheranwf.org, selecting “Get Involved, Youth.” 5-6 Grade: Friday, December 4 from 7:00-9:00PM 7-8 Grade: Saturday, December 5 from 6:30-8:30PM 9-12 Grade: Sunday, December 6 from 6:30-8:30PM

Calendar Items NO Sunday school on December 27, 2015. In order to

give all families and teachers a much needed break, there will be no children or youth Sunday School classes.

Wednesday night alive begins on January 6, 2016. Mark your calendars for Wednesdays full of dinner, fun, and classes for children, youth, and adults.

Thank you from Brown Bag

Ministry!! Brown Bag Saturday was a day of smiles for the unexpected! All of the families that received the fixings for a Thanksgiving Dinner were so appreciative. Please extend our thanks to the many youth and their families that made it possible. You could see all was done for the glory of God by the abundance of food made available. Colossians 3: 23-24: Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

High School Christmas Service project -

Christmas with Crossnore December 11-13, 2015; $50/person Plan & lead a family-style Christmas Party for children living at Crossnore, enjoy the fresh mountain air, make friends from other churches... and have a wonderful time! The Crossnore School provides hope and healing in a homelike, residential education setting for children from families in crisis. The group stays at Camp Linn Haven for the weekend. $50 per person covers transportation, food, lodging and supplies. Sign up today at www.hopelutheranwf.org, selecting “Get Involved—Youth.”

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A note from krista I really don’t like “goodbyes”… I never have. Thankfully, we don’t have to say our final goodbyes here on this earth.

So many memories fill my mind over the years… Van rides, lock-ins, camping, crazy games, Confirmation Sundays, fundraisers, manhunt, Camp Agape, moving furniture around the youth center, lots of letters of recommendation, Camp Linn Haven, loud music, capture the flag, trips to NYG, graduation blessings, , funny answers at children’s messages, children singing at preschool chapel, open Bibles, deep questions about faith, holding hands in prayer circle, building true friendships, hearing concerns and worries, “Hey God,” sharing joys, watching confirmation students grow up to be awesome young men and women of God, and so much more….

What an amazing honor it has been to serve here at Hope. I truly believe that the young people here are the best of their generation. It means so much to have a church that supports and champions teenagers in this day and age.

I have grown and learned so much from the people of Hope. Things that will forever impact me are: your generous support of pastoral staff, open, and friendly welcoming of folks, your prayer, encouragement, and care for each other, your commitment to serving the community, and your dedication to living and proclaiming the Word and love of Jesus in all things.

So, as hard as “goodbyes” feel today, I know without a doubt that we will see each other again.

My family and I will be keeping Hope as our home congregation. This allows us to come back to visit at least every two years when we are in the US on home leave. We will have opportunities to share our adventures through newsletters and prayer cards, and will be just an email away. We may even see some of you on short term mission trips to Ethiopia in the future.

We will keep you all in our prayers as God leads you through another time of transition and your continued ministry. So, THANK YOU so much for this amazing decade. I have been truly blessed beyond compare and know that God has used you to prepare me for the mission ahead.

“See y’all soon!” Peace, Krista and family, <><

Save the date!!! Commissioning service for krista and joel January 17, 2016 during the 11:00AM service with reception to follow (new date) On Sunday, January 17, 2016, we will be having a Commissioning Service for Krista and Joel, and a celebration of Krista’s ministry at Hope. Afterwards, everyone is invited to stay for a reception in Krista’s honor. Krista has served faithfully here at Hope for the past ten years, and she has made a significant impact on the life and history of this congregation. Her love of children and youth, her passion for the Gospel, her smile and laugh, her joyful spirit, and so many other wonderful attributes will be missed in our church. Please keep Krista, Joel, Sydney, and Grace Young in your daily prayers are they embark on their new adventure.

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Calendar Items NO Sunday school on December 27, 2015. In order to give

all families and teachers a much needed break, there will be no children or youth Sunday School classes.

Wednesday night alive begins on January 6, 2016. Mark

your calendars for Wednesdays full of dinner, fun, and classes for children, youth, and adults.

Kingdom Kids’ and FLASH –

Christmas Party December 13 from 4:30-7:00PM Join us for crafts, games, and Caroling in our annual Kingdom Kid's and FLASH Christmas Party. There is no cost for this event! Dinner WILL be served as many kids will be coming straight from Christmas Pageant practice. Also PLEASE make sure your kids are dressed for the COLD weather. We will be caroling after the sun has set and it will be cold!! Register at www.hopelutheranwf.org, under “Get Involved, Children.”

Children’s Christmas Services December 24 at 3:00PM & 5:00PM Come and join us for special services geared just for kids and kids at heart! “’Twas The Light Before Christmas” service is designed for younger children and families with lots of interaction, songs, and humor.

Pageant practice The pageant is almost here! Please see below for rehearsal times. Questions? Contact Beth Agner at bagner@hopelutheranwf.org or 919-554-8109. December 6 and 13 from 1:30-4:30 All participants December 2 and 9 from 5-7 Speaking parts only Christmas pageant December 16 at 7:00PM (participants

arrive at 6:00)

Children’s ministry events & news

In the small town of Incarnation, Christmas is celebrated with grit, giddy-up, and gusto! They like to think of themselves as “the most Christmassy town in the west.” But with the advent of the electric

light, some fret that the outsiders will threaten the peace of their little town while others see the chance to spread the Good News of the birth of Jesus.

Everyone is invited to see the high-spirited, but meaningful, look at Christmas through the lens of

the early Wild West in this year’s pageant, “The Loaned Manger.”

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Preschool Christmas Programs The Preschool children will present their Christmas Program “Celebrating the Birth of Jesus” to their families December 16, 17, and 18 at 9:30AM.

School closings The Preschool will be closed for the holidays beginning Monday, December 21 through Friday, January 1. All classes resume on Monday, January 4.

Parents’ night out fundraiser A Parents’ Night Out fundraiser was held on November 20 and was a huge success! Thank you to all the preschool parents and church members who supported the event.

Fall 2016 registration Registration for Fall 2016 will begin mid-January. We offer half day and full day options for ages 2 to 5. Visit www.hopelutheranwf.org to learn more about the different classes. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis, for the following groups and dates: Hope Members – Tuesday, January 19 at 8:30AM (this is the ONLY date to receive priority registration as a Church

Member.) Currently Enrolled/Siblings – Wednesday & Thursday, January 20 & 21 at 8:30AM. Community – Friday, January 22 at 8:00AM.

Hope Lutheran Preschool News

Our holiday themes include “A Merry Little Xplore Christmas” and a “Colorful Countdown to 2016.” Campers will be participating in two service projects,

“Cookies for Cops” and “Community Helper’s Christmas Survival Kit.” We will also ring in the new year with a colorful New Year’s Eve party.

Don’t forget our many discounts options! Visit www.hopelutheranwf.org to learn more.

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! Hope was privileged to welcome 71 people (47 adults, 24 children and youth) into our congregation this fall. If you see a new face, introduce yourself and welcome them to Hope!

Allen: Ewa, Craig, Sara, Julia

Angus: Carol Austin: Jeff, Danielle, PJ, Drew

Bolick: Matthew, Callen Eiesland: Barbara

Garlington: Jerry, Liz Harrell: Warren, Pam Harrison: Bill

& Parlér: Hilda

Hayes: Jason, Traci, Cheyenne, Wyatt

Hodsden: Bill, Shelly, Lillian, Sarah

Howard: Steve, Melissa, Dustin, Bryce, Savannah,

Heidi, Emily

Jordan: Joe, Laura, James, Patrick

Kocher: Lauren Lee: David, Amy, Brayden Loveless: Mike

Matthews: Nate, Megan, Emory O’Connor: Craig O’Neill: Gary, Teri, Cuyler Parker: Kyle, Becky Parnell: Karen

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Peterson: Jim, Karen, CJ Rogers: Kristy, Libby, Carson

Rosonke: Pete, Carissa, Rylee, Sam

Sasanko: Janet

Not pictured:

Flo Shafer & Diane Parker

Scherrer: Eric, Tamara, Jackson, Matilda

Shless: Stuart, DeMarchi: Cathy

Woolard: Cynthia

Thank you! With my sister passing away, losing my job, the sewage backup, and surgery, it's been a wild ride these last couple of months. Thank you all for the words of comfort, the cards, phone calls, visits, prayers, and monies, especially to Mr/Ms Anonymous (Jesus knows who you are!). God continues to bless me with my wonderful sisters and brothers in Christ. I see His love in all that you do for me and others. This is truly a congregation our Father continues to love and bless. Thank you again! Hugs, Brenda Duensing

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Happy

Birthday! Henry Lumpkin, 12/1 Reese Phillips, 12/1 Kelcey Rogers, 12/1 Linda Turman, 12/1

Lauren Edwards, 12/2 Samantha Hardee, 12/2

Melissa van Rensburg, 12/2 Richard Wood Jr., 12/2

Kate Zwickis, 12/2 Beth Agner, 12/3

Robb Dussault, 12/3 Jacob Gundry, 12/3 Jack Kannan, 12/3 Sue Seaman, 12/3

Jananne Spencer, 12/3 Harold Haun, 12/4 Frank Henley, 12/4

Laura Rom, 12/4 KariAnne Dills, 12/5

Nancy Hipsman, 12/5 Stephanie Hollemback, 12/5

Brodie O’Donnell, 12/5 Kirsten Kusy, 12/6

Christopher Long, 12/6 Charlie Melhinch, 12/6

Michael Cesar, 12/7 Ian Christine, 12/8

Janet Gagnon, 12/8

Peyton Womble, 12/8 Rob Ellison, 12/9

Shannon Janosko, 12/9 Dick Richardson, 12/9

Jessica Steinmiller, 12/9 Elaine Willers, 12/9

Michelle Cerniauskas, 12/10 Beverly Parmelee, 12/10

Tom Readling, 12/10 Brian Harris, 12/11 Bill Wellnitz, 12/11

Wayne Bradley, 12/13 Corey Garrity, 12/13

Sherri Hall, 12/13 Annabelle Hunter, 12/13

Allen Kannan, 12/13 Conner Morris, 12/13

Jake Phetteplace, 12/13 Linda Wellnitz, 12/13

Mary Jane Haske, 12/14 Bill Turman, 12/14

Joshua Dickens II, 12/15 Andrew Dubiel, 12/15 Joshua Hutton, 12/15 Jan McCluskey, 12/15 Cindy Schaffer, 12/15

Bill Seaman, 12/15 Eric Swenson, 12/15

Sandra Turgeon, 12/15 Josh Hederick, 12/16 Taylor Rotosky, 12/16

Nadine Lewis, 12/17 Noah West, 12/17

Shelly Rotosky, 12/18 Tony Wagner, 12/18 Sam Jones III, 12/19 Ryan Moran, 12/19

John Morrow, 12/19 Kenneth Siegel, 12/19 Dillon Weidner, 12/19

Ben Wester, 12/19 Jerry Alvis, 12/20

Peyton Faris, 12/20 Lauren Garrett, 12/20 Spencer Jones, 12/20 Jim Markworth, 12/20

Erin Mecum, 12/20 Kim Nugent, 12/20

Caydence Barker, 12/21 Lindsay Fisher, 12/21

Tara Martin, 12/21 Christine Murphy, 12/21

Bob Nielsen, 12/21 Angelina Rebollar, 12/21

Bill Carter, 12/22 Myla Lambert, 12/22

Jena Hoh, 12/23 Fran Najdecki, 12/23 Trevor Rush, 12/23

Hannah Stroot, 12/24 Cole Cooke, 12/25

Nicole Cooke, 12/25

Erin Barker, 12/26 Lidia Cullen, 12/26

Auden Lindberg, 12/26 Georgianna Rasmussen, 12/26

Dan Baker, 12/27 Luis Fondo, 12/27

Jeremy Moran, 12/27 Grace Niesel, 12/27

Sean Roy, 12/27 Debra Verny, 12/27 John Pates, 12/28

Nick Rotosky, 12/28 Dylan Wilcox, 12/28

Bentley Agner, 12/29 Alex DiMartino, 12/29

Elizabeth Henley, 12/29 Bonnie Petersilge, 12/29 Brooke Koehler, 12/30

Beth Webb, 12/30 Josh Ellis, 12/31

Myra Emanuele, 12/31 Carroll Hortman, 12/31

Isabelle Upchurch, 12/31

Happy

Anniversary! Bill & Ann Jasper, 12/2

Tim & Kathy Stroupe, 12/3 Rob & Kathy Bailey, 12/6

Mark & Sharon Gipner, 12/14 Chris & Cathy Smith, 12/17

Bill & Deborah Winiewicz, 12/17 David & Diane Lynn, 12/18

Mike & Jenny Farmer, 12/19 Jeff & Beth Lasater, 12/21

Ronny & Pat Burman, 12/22 Frank & Elizabeth Henley, 12/26

Ron & Barbara Beltran, 12/27

Matt & Mary Hitzeman, 12/28 Michael & Brenda Kris, 12/28 Dick & Elaine Kruger, 12/28

Bill & Sue Seaman, 12/28 Frank & Eileen Dreier, 12/29

Darren & Tammy Dunne, 12/29 David & Kati Zick, 12/29

Russell & Kristen Hayes, 12/31 Joseph & Shelly Hummel, 12/31

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Prayer Requests from DECEMBER 1 Praise and Thanksgiving for…Hannah Chlystek’s cousin, who recently had a baby; the baptism of Bill & Sue Seaman’s grandson, Sebastian Seaman; the baptism of Shane Patrick Parker, son of Brett & Rhonda Parker; Comfort for…the family and friends of Ian Reynolds who died in a car accident this weekend; Strength and Healing for…Joe Walters & Kathy Bailey’s mother, Joanne Walters, hospitalized with chest pain and pneumonia; Jena Hoh, recovering from hip surgery, Todd Marker’s mother, Carolyn, recovering from heart surgery; Carol Sala, sister-in-law of Mike & Rita Kaess, diagnosed with cancer; Amber, friend of Ashley Sargent, who broke her arm; Diane, friend of the Najdecki’s, battling cancer; Roseann Caretsky, friend of Elizabeth Lopez, recovering from surgery; Diane Lynn as she continues to battle rheumatoid arthritis, and severe back & joint pain; Guidance, Protection, and Safety for…Miss Krista and family as they pray about their decision; Nicolette Fritz’s godfather who deployed for a year and for all the soldiers and their families; people around the world in crisis; a friend who recently found Jesus; Hannah Chlystek’s family and friends; Deborah, friend of Margaret Carlson, whose sons are struggling with addiction.

Prayer Requests from DECEMBER 7-8 Praise and Thanksgiving for… Touched by Hope guests and volunteers; for Richard’s successful surgery; Comfort for… Bonnie Onofrio and family, as they grieve the death of Bonnie's granddaughter, Hayley Serrano; Betsy & John Grimes, dear friend of Anne Hall, at the death of Betsy’s mother; Barry Bowling and family at the death of his uncle, JK Sherron; Strength and Healing for…Jake Warner, friend of the Nevitt’s, diagnosed with cancer in his foot; Al Neubaum and his family; Joanne Walters, mother of Kathy Bailey and Joe Walters, recovering from a heart attack and stroke; Jerry Bremer, brother-in-law of Marilyn Bremer and uncle of Carrie Alvis, having heart issues; David Lee’s friends, Sara and Joel Manning, and Sara battles cancer; Sammy Hoh, recovering from a concussion; Guidance, Protection, and Safety for…Miss Krista and the Young Family as they prayerfully seek God’s guidance; persecuted Christians in Nigeria, Kenya, Syria, and Iraq and for those who are struggling; Rafael Ramos, working as a policeman.

Prayer Requests from DECEMBER 14-15 Praise and Thanksgiving for…Good test results for Coleman. Please pray for continued good results through his cancer battle; Comfort for…Glen at the tragic loss of his son; Strength and Healing for…Pam Jay’s friend, Elizabeth,

recovering from a car accident; Luis Fondo’s co-worker, recovering from surgery; Brian Kruger, recovering from his 4th surgery; Al & Donna Neubaum; Jena & Sammy Hoh recovering; Jim Livengood, Sharon Strom’s father suffering from lung disease; Elmer Jensen, grandfather of Todd Meyer, hospitalized; Murphy family, as Jason & Jennifer’s young son, Wyatt, recovers from minor surgery; Guidance, Protection, and Safety for…the women attending Hope’s retreat this weekend; Paula Reeve’s nephew, Eric; Andrew, in need of direction and guidance; Via de Cristo retreat guests and team at Camp Agape this weekend. For God’s love to be felt by every person there.

Prayer Requests from DECEMBER 21-22 Praise and Thanksgiving… the birthday of Kay Sahl, a member of Hope who resides in a senior care home, will turn 96 on November 25. Call the church office for her address to send a card; Comfort for…Donna Neubaum and family as they grieve the loss of her husband, Al Neubaum. The memorial service is Saturday, November 28 at 11:00AM, at Hope with a reception immediately following the service; the family of Salvatore Russo, who miss him dearly, especially on his birthday; friends of Rodger and Virginia Fulbright, Robbie Quin family at the death of their son; Peggy Seneca at the loss of her husband, Ernest; friends of the Clark’s, the Fitzpatrick family, mourning the loss of Skyler; the Paris terrorist victims and their families; Strength and Healing for…the Bannerman family as the mother recovers from a car accident; Sara, friend of David Lee, as she battles cancer; Mike, good MRI results this week; Dexter Cooley, friend of the Clark Family, as he continues his battle with cancer; Barb Welch having heart issues and her son, TJ who has moved to a rehab facility after a 4 month hospitalization; Brian Lane’s friend, Heather Jester, diagnosed with a brain tumor and recovering from surgery; Tucker, friend of Weston Lane, Mary Langsdorf, recovering from gall bladder surgery; Warren Harrell, with severe back pain; Maureen Giglio, hospitalized with pneumonia and lung infection; Guidance, Protection, and Safety for…Julie Garrett’s friends who just found out they are having triplets; those who have exams and tests to do their best.

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3525 Rogers Road

Wake Forest, NC 27587

Phone: 919.554.8109

Fax: 919.554.0412

Web: www.hopelutheranwf.org

Saturday Celebration Service

5:30PM

Sunday Worship

8:30AM & 11:00AM

Sunday Christian Education Hour

9:45AM

Hope Lutheran Church & Preschool

3525 Rogers Road

Wake Forest, NC 27587

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Ministry Leadership Team: Rodger Fulbright (Chair), Joe Hummel (Vice Chair), Mike Siderio (Secretary), Beth Theiss, Rob Petersilge, Jeff Vukovich, Susan Hooper, Tracie White, Marilyn Bremer, David Morgan, Peter Mueller, and Beatrice Siaw.

Ministry Staff: Rev. Wayne Puls…………….………………..………….……….……Senior Pastor Rev. Lew Upchurch…..………………………….……….………Associate Pastor Rev. Larry R. Lineberger……………….…………..…Assistant to the Pastor Rev. Preston Wagner……………………………………………..Pastor Emeritus Krista Young…….……....Director of Christian Ed. & Youth Ministry Beth Agner…….….Director of Christian Ed. & Children’s Ministry Shannon Janosko…………........………………………..Parish Administrator Amy Elder………………………….….………Communications Coordinator Jan McCluskey…………….……….………………………..…………….Bookkeeper Carlin O’Brien………………………………...……...Receptionist/Office Asst. Steve Ebberts…………………………………………………...Facilities Manager Paul Hieter…..………………………….Evening Receptionist/Office Asst. Rob Varner…………………….……….………..Organist and Choir Director Kathy Vockeroth……………..………….……….…Hand Bell Choir Director Joe Walters, Michael Case, Tim Stroupe, Ray Sharpstene..Praise Team Regina Fisher………….………………….…………………….Preschool Director Angela Baker…………...………...…Preschool Administrative Assistant Sara Cutler, Tara Cook, Susan Kennedy, Jamie Pless, Fran Sowisdral, Deborah Burns, Lisa Dotson, Amanda DeCilles, Stephanie Fowler, Christine Murphy, Amber Perry, Stefanie Saba, Crystal Bright, Jannelle Pizzola, Denise Christopoulos, Jen Swearingen, & Jill Dillow……………………………………………………………...…...…Teachers Billie Kay Roland..………………………………… Xplore Program Director Bonnie Petersilge, Kelly Friend, Melissa Replogle, Natasha Hoyle, Cassandra Davis & Joshua Clink……...………………………..…..Xplore Staff Erin Ames, Lauren Hugelmaier, Julie Gundry, Cynthia Leonard, Heleen Bloomer, Carly Turman, Angie Meyer, Melissa Replogle, & Kathy Dipillo ………………….…………………..………Nursery Attendants Erin Ames…...……………………..…….……….…...Little Blessings Director Lindsay Mitchell, Angie Meyer, Melissa Replogle, and Kate Cerulla ………………….………….…………………………………......Little Blessings Staff