Pastor Clay’s Potter’s Wheel
Have you heard the latest culture war controversy? Many are complaining Starbucks is taking
Christ out of Christmas with the plain design of their “holiday coffee cups.” This year’s
holiday cups transition from a plain bright red color on top to a deeper cranberry toward the
bottom, with no other images. Every year since introducing their holiday cups in 1997,
Starbucks has included some kind of design, such as snowflakes, presents, a sledding scene, a
snowman, ornaments, etc. However, the holiday cups have never featured an overt religious
design. So, why all the fuss this year? For an idea of the outrage, you may check out a 1:18
minute video by Josh Feuerstein which at the time I’m writing this article has gone viral and
been viewed 16,514,082 times. To read about and view the video you may copy and paste:
http://www.vox.com/2015/11/10/9707034/starbucks-red-cup-controversy
Or simply search “josh feuerstein starbucks red cup controversy.”
Here’s a friendly question: Instead of getting our Christmas wreaths all twisted out of shape
over disposable coffee cups, how about we direct our energy and passions toward things that
really matter? You know, like Jesus did! To truly “Keep Christ in Christmas” Jesus calls us to
comfort the suffering, feed the hungry, cloth the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the
stranger and the unwanted, include the lonely, care for the ill, love our enemies, and spread
goodwill and cheer! Faithful people accomplish this through individual acts of kindness and
generosity and through generous support of the church. Keeping Christ in Christmas in this
way is truly the church’s mission, not just in December, but throughout the year. Thank you
for your support so we (that includes you!) can continue this holy work of Christ.
Blessed and Merry Christmas to You and Yours,
Pastor Clay
December, 2015
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Grace Lutheran Church Council Meeting Minutes - October 19, 2015
Present: Paul Walheim, Sarah Madson, Nelson Hinz, Phil Karsnia, Sue Mokler, Doug Pinnow, Danny Hanson, Karen
Kelm, Pastor Clay, Katie Baird. Absent: Phil Karsnia, Chris Mokler, Kelly Hanson, Joanna Salmela, Jenny Schram
1. Meeting called to order at 6:03 pm
2. Prayer concerns and celebrations
3. Devotion: Pastor Clay —Luke - Appreciation for stories both written and shared orally.
4. Review and approve meeting agenda
a. add Constitution Review
b. add Exec Committee Report
5. Review and approve minutes from September (M/S/A – Sarah, Karen)
6. Review and approve Treasurer’s Report to audit (M/S/A – Nelson, Danny)
a. Discussion…envelope offerings down, Scrip down
b. Questions of Webster Funds and carry over
7. Ries Driving School - received request for classroom use for January, February, and May classes (M/S/A Sue, Karen)
a. Classroom rental fee is the total for one students
b. One student fee is $375 – payment has not been made for fall classes
c. We will send an invoice for fall classes and make sure previous payments are complete
8. Constitution Review
Sue reported on the progress she and Charlotte Sherman have made reviewing the Model Constitution changes
of ELCA that must be reflected in our document. Going forward Sue suggested that we have Council Secretary
be a contact so we do not get behind again. Danny suggested adding to the November agenda.
9. Review status of “term” audit team
Names of potential audit team members were suggested. Pastor Clay will call and ask and pick a random section
to audit.. question of how long and how often …this is required by By-Laws
10. Information/Listening Session Review - Discussion
11. Committee Liaison Review - review committee listing and make sure all is correct
a. Add Social Concerns Committee – Sarah is willing to be Council Liaison
b. Still need more people for committees – review once a month – leaders need to step up and ask people to
participate – encourage them.. new members need to be invited and encouraged
12. Fall Festival is Friday at Doug Pinnow’s …grills are there…desserts and side dishes are potluck…bring own meat…
Doug will smoke chickens, picnic tables will seat 30….can also bring chairs
13. Budget Review – Finance Committee will complete review Oct. 19-21 and a budget defense meeting for committee
chairs will be held November 8.
14. CPR Certification Date Status
New date will be scheduled – we need to let the usher teams know they are required to be re-certified. Paul will
communicate with Curt Belau to make sure ushers are aware.
15. Keys – 35 keys have been cut and on master list – the list seems to make sense of who would require access to the
building – two keys are lost
16. Credit cards…bills…requirement is that bills must be reviewed by the Committee Chair and approved before
payment. Attempting to get credit cards with just “Grace Lutheran Chuch” to be able to be used by congregation
members making purchases – hopefully 3-5 open cards Finance committee will be researching how best to do
this - Karen suggested that all committee Chairs have a copy of the tax exempt certificate and can utilize it
17. Status of insurance – Property committee is reviewing policies for property and liability insurance. Herm is working
with local agent for American Family and Lutheran Trust. Will report back.
18. Pastor’s Report
a. Sharing Table – Lisa McShane and Melanie Simpkins would like to be replaced…are willing to share all
information …Karen Kelm would consider if someone will work with her..she will ask some folks…
perhaps moving forward we should have a committee of 5-6
(continued)
b. General cleanliness of the church has been an issue – Pastor Clay has addressed with Dave, inquiring about
hours of work and jobs completed – Dave should be meeting with property committee …Pioneer Cleaning of
Pickett will be contacted about cleaning carpeting before Thanksgiving Meal. Discussion of huddle
conversation about carpet squares vs linoleum – purchasing green machine that could be used immediately for
spills…expectation is for people to clean up after themselves, but have back-up committee to recommend action
c. Good discussion yesterday on same gender marriage…Council will review total results and other
discussions…discuss in December and vote in January
d. Pastor brought forward a possible family situation to utilize in-house benevolence funds…Council will
continue to monitor the situation and keep diligent on assessing needs. (M/S/A Pastors Report – Doug,Sarah)
19. Youth and Family Ministry Report – no report
20. Paul asked everyone to use his petepuma email address
21. Concert at College – blue grass band is amazing – Oct. 30 Friday
22. Next meeting November 16 at 6pm
23. Paul will do devotions in November and do schedule.
24. (M/S/A Danny, Doug) Adjourn 7:45 pm
25. Close with the Lord’s Prayer
Respectfully Submitted by Sue Mokler, Secretary
COUNCIL MEMBERS (2015—2016)
Danial Hanson (2018 term) Kelly Hanson (2018 term) Nelson Hinz (2016 term) Philip Karsnia (2017 term) 713 Liberty Street 713 Liberty Street 328 Co. Road M 662 S. Grove Street Ripon, WI 54971 Ripon, WI 54971 Pickett, WI 54964 Ripon, WI 54971 715-220-7593 920-716-0715 920-589-3582 920-267-7686 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Karen Kelm (2018 term) Sarah Madson VP (2016) Chris Mokler (2016 term) Susan Mokler SEC. (2017) 450 Joy 429 Sandmar Drive 4921 Song Bird Court 6621 Rustic Meadows Dr. Ripon, WI 54971 Ripon, WI 54971 Omro, WI 54963 Pickett, WI 54964 920-229-2675 608-206-1951 920-279-6104 920-279-1573 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Doug Pinnow (2017 term) Joanna Salmela (2017 term) Paul Walheim PRES. (2018) W14271 Highland Terrace 545 Fairview Avenue 815 Newbury Street Ripon, WI 54971 Ripon, WI 54971 Ripon, WI 54971 920-896-2563 920-896-2397 920-748-7023 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
PAGE 3
Join us for worship, fellowship, and the birth of our Savior!
Sunday School
Christmas Program
10:30 am Service—Sunday, Dec. 20
SSunday Worship
December 27
1 service @ 9:00 am
Christmas Eve Worship
4:00 pm, December 24—communion
11:00 pm, December 24—communion
Christmas Day Worship
9:00 am, December 25—communion
Beautification Committee members for their time and effor t pulling information together for an updated look to Grace’s interior!
Kent Huseboe and Jon Heatley for their time installing a new garbage disposal in the kitchen in time for Thanksgiving!
Karen Kelm for volunteer ing to be the Shar ing Table Coordinator . Thank You to Leesa McShane & Melanie Simpkins for their years of service as Co-Coordinators for this outreach ministry.
Eden Mokler, Jenny Schram, & Macy Schendel for shampooing the carpet in the Fellowship Hall prior to the Thanksgiving Day meal! Thanks also to those who moved tables
PAGE 4
Mission of the month ELCA Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Svc.
Consider helping this worthwhile cause! Please make checks payable to Grace Lutheran Church with Dec. MOM written in the memo. If your name or envelope # is on the envelope you will get credit for your donation on your annual Grace Contribution Report. You may use your Grace envelopes—write MOM on the front & insert separate check.
Sharing Table Meal Ministry
Please join us for a meal here at Grace on Tuesday, December 8th. The meal is served from 5-6:30 p.m.
All are welcome at the
SCRIP Order Deadline: Sunday, December 6
Plan ahead for holiday gift giving! Only chance to order in December…
Help support Grace Lutheran Church this holiday season with your purchases of SCRIP gift cards! They make great stocking stuffers and gifts for anyone on your list! Your purchases made on the monthly order form will be reflected on a year-end rebate summary. You can use the rebate amount as a contribution to Grace
Lutheran Church on your taxes. ALL December SCRIP Orders Receive a FREE Gift!
A Message from Bea Denzin… Thank you for all the prayers, cards, and visits to Ripon
Medical Center, Markesan Rehab & Barrett House here in Ripon. Thanks to Pastor Clay and
all my Befriender friends for the help & caring. Thanks to my friends in the Rebekah
Circle—the mum plant was beautiful and got planted in the front at home. Thanks to
Marlene & Bruce for all of their care. The Social Concerns Committee is very busy this time
of year. Please assist them in their projects. God’s Blessings to all!
Keep Christ in Christmas this year by following the example of the wise men—taking time to honor the Christ child through acts of generosity and kindness. Amidst all the busyness, deadlines, travel, hustle, and bustle of this holiday season, who can you notice who would enjoy a visit, could use a helping hand, or
appreciate even a small gift of kindness? The Christ child came to earth to bring a new way, leading to new life. How can you share the same?
CHRISTMAS STARS Sunday, Dec. 13th @ 1:00 pm. Tickets are $17 each. Sign up to reserve your seat for this holiday-themed extravaganza celebrating and honoring the joy of the season! Please pay for your tickets promptly as Grace has already paid for all tickets. Several tickets remain...get yours today!
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Grace Christmas Cards
$8.00 per package
20 cards—21 envelopes
Stop in the office to purchase a package or two!
ADVENT CALENDAR SALE
Prepare for Christmas by opening a window each day during Advent. Choices: Upon opening each window, find a wonderful piece of gourmet milk chocolate & bible text that tells a part of the Nativity story. $10. OR Window only: reveals picture & bible text. $5. Available in the church office
2015 Poinsettia Orders Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church will once again be taking orders to decorate our sanctuary for Christmas with poinsettias. Poinsettias can be purchased in honor or memory of a friend or loved one. Or, you may make a
donation to help our local food pantries. Please fill out this form and return it to the church
office. The deadline for ordering is December 8.
In lieu of a poinsettia, I would like to make a donation of $_________.
I would like to order ________ plants at $10.00 each.
Name:________________________________________________
In Honor/Memory (circle one) of:
H/M__________________________________________________
H/M__________________________________________________
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE @ GRACE
Grace is hosting a blood drive on Tuesday, Dec. 15th from 12:30—5:30 pm.
Please contact the office if you can help staff the registration and/or snack table OR sign up on the volunteer list posted on the bulletin board. Snack donations are also needed. Thanks!
Give the gift of life this holiday season!
CONTRIBUTION ENVELOPES On December 31st please discard your 2015 contribution envelopes. Beginning January 1, 2016 new envelope numbers will be assigned.
Watch for the new envelope boxes in December.
2016 ANNUAL MEETING
The Annual Meeting and potluck will be held on Sunday,
January 31st after the late service.
Order forms
also available
in the bulletins
Nov. 29 and
Dec. 6
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SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGING CAMPAIGN
Help ring in the season and help make the season merry for those who are less fortunate by volunteering to ring bells for Grace! Our shifts are Friday, December 18th and Saturday, December 19th at Kmart. Sign-up sheets are posted on the bulletin board in the entryway.
THANK YOU in advance for your service!
Ready for your chance to Win? There is something for everyone including a “Baker’s Dozen” basket, a “Cheese
Lovers” basket, a “Man Cave” basket, the “Apple Wine Lovers” basket, and more!
Raffle Tickets are 1 for $1, 6 for $5, 30 for $20
Selling tickets between services and in the office during the week. Drawing will be December 13th at noon.
150th anniversary
Gift basket raffle
COOKBOOKS FOR SALE Order your Grace 150th Anniversary cookbook now!
$15 each Take home a treasured collection of recipes from many outstanding cooks.
This attractive cookbook makes an ideal gift or keepsake.
Cookbooks will be here in time for Christmas gift-giving!
Pre-order yours at Grace between services on Sunday or in the office during the week.
Proceeds will benefit the 150th Anniversary Fund—watch for the many events planned in 2016 for Grace members and the community!
DEADLINE: JANUARY/FEBRUARY GRACE NOTES
We are combining the January & February Grace Notes in 2016. Grace Notes Deadline is Thursday, December 17th at noon. Please look ahead to
February when submitting your articles and calendar dates.
PAGE 7
Property Committee Report—November
Present: Jon Heatley, Keith Walker, Tom Voight, Don Paulson, Nelson Hinz, and Council President Paul Walheim.
Old Business: Submitted budget. Budget discussed modifications were made to trim budget.
New Business: Received snow removal bid from Tri-City Lawn Care. Received letter from Kelly Peth regarding his purchase of Four Seasons Lawn Care, renamed Tri-City Lawn Care. Fire Dept. report- Will fix Exit lights. Garbage disposal will be installed in kitchen before Thanksgiving Day meal. Carpeting will be cleaned in Fellowship Hall.
Next Meeting Dec. 8, 2015 at 6:30 PM
Church Beautification Plans are moving forward on our project to update and beautify Grace’s interior décor. Our imaginative professional interior designer has provided color palettes, carpet samples, and décor options for us and we have gathered quotes to consider! Council and Finance Committee will be discussing this information as the next
step. Our Special Congregational Meeting scheduled for Sunday, November 29th is being rescheduled into the near future. We’ll keep you informed of the exciting developments in the coming days.
WITH SYMPATHY
We extend our sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Alton Meyer, age 87, who completed his earthly pilgrimage on November 7th, and Alice Jorgensen, age 101, who completed her ear thly pilgrimage on November 22nd.
We are indeed grateful for the response to our Stewardship Campaign for the coming year. Embracing an attitude of gratitude is a way of life and will be a source of blessing for you. More than 67 households have already responded with Time & Talent and Pledge Cards. This is a good response for the first weeks and we are encouraged that many of you said you would return yours soon. The coordinators of the ministries you selected look forward to being in touch with you.
Your financial pledge indicates a strong commitment to our congregation and worldwide church needs. Together we can eradicate disease and famine and bring the Good News to countries throughout the world. We are the hands of God and work in ways that no individual or congregation can do alone.
Thank you for all that you do. The Stewardship Team
ACTIVE/VOTING GRACE MEMBERSHIP IS… per our Constitution “Voting members are confirmed members. Such confirmed members, during the current or preceding calendar year, shall have communed in this congregation and shall have made a contribution of record to this congregation.”
NEW DEVOTIONALS You may pick up a copy of the January, February, March Christ In Our Home Devotional in the narthex or the church office.
PAGE 8
On This Christmas Morn
by Deborah Ann Belka
A promise to the world, a child to be given
so many years foretold so all could be forgiven.
Moonless night shining, with the Morning Star
calling watchful shepherds to come from afar.
Wise Men carry gifts, meant for only a King angels up in heaven Glory ~ Glory ~ sing.
God became a man,
the Good News is born begotten Son arrives
on this Christmas morn.
Our mighty God concedes, to the wickedness of man
the Prince of Peace comes to bridge the empty span.
Wonderful is His name, Counselor to the meek
the Son was born of flesh to give power to the weak.
Our everlasting Father, knows our fallen state
so He sent His only Son to save us from our fate.
A promise to the world,
our Lord and Savior is born sing ~ Praises to His Glory ~
Christmas in Bethlehem
The ancient dream: a cold, clear night made brilliant by a glorious star, the smell of incense, shepherds and wise men falling to their knees in adoration of the sweet baby, the incarnation of perfect love.
~Lucinda Franks
Christmas gift suggestions:
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.
~Oren Arnold
Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and be-hold, everything is softer and more beautiful.
—Norman Vincent Peale
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NOVEMBER was a month full of things for which we are thankful at Grace Pre-School! This month, preschoolers in both our morning and afternoon classes had daily opportunities to talk about the people and things for which they are thankful- parents, siblings, toys, pets, friends, trips to the park are just a few examples.
In the spirit of thankfulness, we extend our heartiest thanks to those who generously share their time, talent, monetary gifts and prayers. Many thanks to our Mystery Visitors from Grace Lutheran Church (Pastor Clay, Peg Salmela,
Ruth Ann Smith, Mickey Veleke, Barb Becker, Kay Kelch, Lisa Jorgenson, and Sue Mokler). We enjoy the books you read and the time you spend to talk with us! Thank you to the Property Committee for all the work you do to maintain the facilities so that we have a safe place to learn and play! Thank you to all who participated in our fundraisers this fall. Your participation (whether it was manpower, donation of supplies, or purchase of items) is very greatly appreciated. It is because of all of you that we are able to continue our ministry to serve young children and their families. We pray that you will be richly blessed for your generosity of time, treasure and talent!
Five friends celebrated their birthdays this month: Alexis (5), Naomi (5), Landon (5), Madison (4) and Kayden (4).
Our community helper for the month of November was a baker. Christina, a cake decorator from Pick ‘n Save, visited our morning class and decorated a special cake for our snack. She gave our afternoon class a tour of the bakery and helped us decorate our own cupcakes for a most delicious treat!
In the coming weeks, we will prepare for our annual Christmas program, which will be held on Thursday, December 10th. We invite you to join us at 7pm in the Fellowship Hall as we celebrate the birth of Christ.
Upcoming Events for December: December 4: Visit our Living Window during the Dickens of a Christmas in downtown Ripon. December 4-6: Vote for the Grace Pre-School tree in the Enchanted Forest at the former Suds on the Square in Ripon. December 10: Christmas Program @ 7pm December 17: Last day of school December 21-January 4- No School (Christmas Break)
To Nelson Hinz for all his work on the heating unit in the Preschool rooms over the past few weeks, ensuring our little ones
are comfortably warm as our weather turns colder.
For a successful Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser! We especially thank the Albright family – Wayne, Dave, Laura and Brady – for moving the large pancake griddle, and the FFA
alumni for the use of the griddle, Katie Modrow for expert culinary skills, several Confirmation students for helping during crunch-time and to all the Grace Preschool
families who contributed items or their time to the event. We are also GRATEFUL to Kelly and Danny Hanson, the winners of our 50/50 Raffle, for donating their portion of the winnings back to the Preschool.
Grace Preschool is TRULY BLESSED to have the support of so many kind hearts!
Grace Sunday School - Info and Updates
December 2015
*** NO SUNDAY SCHOOL ***
November 29th
May you enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving with a grateful heart!
*** Sunday School Christmas Program ***
S.S. Christmas Program Practice – Dec 19th 9 – 10:30am
S.S. Christmas Program – December 20th at the 10:30 Service
Cookie and Punch Reception to follow Program
*** NO SUNDAY SCHOOL ***
December 27th and January 4th
May joy and peace of Christ be yours at Christmas and throughout the
New Year!
*** SUNDAY SCHOOL MISSIONS ***
S.S. envelope monies help to support the following worthy causes:
ELCA Global Barnyard
Child Sponsorship of Fahmi - through Compassion International
ING AHEAD
Sunday School Teachers Meeting – January 17th at 10:30
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for
the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14 (NIV)
PAGE 10
PAGE 11
From our youth & family minister...
Youth and Family Schedule for December:
December 6th… 345 Club, Middle School and High School Youth will work together to bake, decorate, and deliver cookies to our shut-ins. We’ll begin at 9:15 during the Sunday School hour for those who are not rehearsing for the Christmas Program. Everyone can join us at 10:30 to continue baking, decorating and then arrange for delivery of the cookies.
Everyone is welcome to join us!!! – Adults included in this invitation!!!!!
December 20th… The Sunday School classes will be presenting the Christmas Program at the 10:30 service! Cookies and beverages will be served following the program.
Blessings to you all during this season of JOY
From Vibrant Faith Ministries
Vibrant Faith @ Home: This time of year we remember our blessings and give thanks for the many gifts we receive from our Father throughout the year.
Bread of Life At this stop on your Bible trek, you'll see how Jesus turned a little bit of food into enough to feed 5000 people! And, you'll find out how Jesus is the Bread of Life. (Just for Kids)
Teaching Thankfulness to Toddlers Fun and age-appropriate ways to express the meaning of thankfulness for all the gifts that God has given. (Young Families)
Doodling Our Faith Stories Busy families don't always take time to notice how the Spirit is helping them to grow in their relationship with God. By talking, writing, and doodling together, you can learn more about faith from one another. (Young Families)
An A+ in Appreciation Fall brings change to everyone. Students are meeting new teachers and new friends. Celebrating those who got us through these days can be a special gift. (Young Adults)
Little Thanks Fall harvest gives God' people a natural prompt to give thanks for the bounty of the Creator. Offering thanks for the seemingly inconsequential blessings of daily life can help to balance and ground our faith. (Adult / Couple)
Church Bulletin Bloopers
Don’t let worry kill you off—let the Church help.
Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the
help they can get.
The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They
may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
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WOMEN OF GRACE
FROM WOG President, Sheri Bradshaw
Women of Grace ALL women are invited and encouraged to join in our activities. Watch
the bulletins and announcements on the bulletin board. We would also love to have you join a
circle--talk to any circle member, Sheri Bradshaw, or Norine in the office.
Nativity Display Come and enjoy the Nativity Sets at church Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4
and 5th, for the Dickens of a Christmas Celebration.
Budget Meeting We will have a Women of Grace Budget Meeting on January 17th,
2016. Watch the bulletins for time and location.
Serving Groups If you are not currently listed as a volunteer for one of Grace’s serving
groups, please consider signing up to be “on call” to bake a pan of bars or prepare a salad when
a funeral arises. You always have “right of refusal” if the particular date requested does not
work into your schedule. If you work outside the home and cannot assist in serving at a funeral,
this would be another way to help us out! Please contact Sheri Bradshaw or the office if you are
willing to SERVE by baking and/or working at a funeral or if you have any questions.
Samaritan’s Purse The Social Concerns Committee wishes to thank everyone who contributed to or filled shoeboxes for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child. With the Thrivent Financial Action Team’s $250 gift card, we were able to purchase enough hygiene products to fill 55 shoeboxes.
Share Your Love Tree The star and angel tags from the Green Lake and Ripon Santa Club are hung on the Christmas tree in the narthex! Pick a tag, shop for gifts, wrap your gifts, and return them to Grace by December 6th. Remember, the tag needs to be placed on the outside of the package.
Cookie Walk Sunday, December 13th between services. The cost will be $7.00 a pound. Please have your cookies at the church before the 8:00 service. Keep track of your time making them for Thrivent Financial. They will again give us $100 if we make $300. All proceeds go to World Hunger.
Women of Grace Christmas Lunch
Dorcas Circle invites all WOG Wednesday, Dec. 9th @ 11:00 am Tuscumbia Restaurant, Green Lake
Choice of entrees:
Berry Chicken Salad with croissant
Turkey Bacon Ranch Wrap with side of fruit
French Dip on Hoagie with side of fruit
Reuben Sandwich with side of fruit
$12 includes tax & tip. Beverages (except water) are extra.
Deadline for sign-up is December 7th
Call Karla @ 294-6500 if you have any questions.
WANTED: CRECHE SETS
Grace will again be hosting the Dickens of a Christmas Nativity display. If you can share your creche, please bring it to the church by Thursday, December 3rd with a 3x5 card explanation of where it came from. The hours of display during that weekend will be 4pm-8pm on Friday, December 4th and again on Saturday, December 5th 9am-3pm. The displays will still be shown on Sunday morning for you to see between or after services.
Questions? Please call Judy DeWar at 748-5398.
Social concerns COMMITTEE
5th Monday LWR Workday: November 29th @ 9:30 in the Fellowship Hall. We will work on quilts & organizing our stash. Please bring scissors!
Stephanie Bradshaw 12/01 Leesa McShane 12/01 Corey Schoff 12/01 Kelley Thrasher 12/04 David Weinkauf 12/04 Sarah Madson 12/05 Zane Meyer 12/05 Amanda McShane 12/07 Dan Meyer 12/07 Tom Davis 12/08 Gloria Gelhar 12/08 Louden Hoxie 12/08 Merle Czerwinski 12/09 Edward White 12/09 Macy Schendel 12/10 Lee Jess 12/11 Jason Kimpel 12/12 Arnold Malzhan 12/12 Sara Simonis 12/12 Rosalie Jess 12/13 Kathleen Webster 12/13 Maxwell Huseboe 12/14 Alexis Mokler 12/14 Anne Abhold Falk 12/15 Jessica Johnson 12/16 RaeAnnon Sasada 12/16 Kathy Welch 12/16 Garrett Heberer 12/18 Jon Hillier 12/18
Sue Leitz 12/18 Alyssa Lind 12/19 Kris Miller 12/19 Jodi Percey 12/19 Shirley Hinz 12/21 Andrew Madson 12/21 Respalje, Courtney 12/21 Lennon Simonis 12/21 Emily Gryske 12/23 Krystal Meyer 12/23 Hailey Portz 12/23 Marion Wittchow 12/24 Sabra Larson 12/25 Lauren Martinez 12/26 Emma Draeger 12/27 Abigail Slate 12/28 Duane Luker 12/29 Douglas Pinnow 12/29 Angela Draeger 12/30
Edward & Rogene Scoville 12/12/1959
Kermit & Lois Weiske 12/13/1952
Scott & Phyllis Baldwin 12/18/1982
Lynn & Terry Mathias 12/23/1983
Jeff & Paula Paulson 12/31/1977
Visit the Homebound... Keith & Myrna Walker
Barrett House: Bea Denzin, Eugene Wittchow
CopperLeaf: Florian Laper
Lake View Estates: (Fond du Lac) Don Lueck
Fountain View: Fred Boese, Marion Boire
Maple Crest: Vi Fude, Joan Kedrowski, Arlene Lind
Markesan Residence: Orin Galow
Prairie Place: Shirley Stewart, LaRayne Sweeney, Audrey White
Russell Manor: Gail Albright, Arlene Thiem
PAGE 13
Altar Flowers The Altar Flowers sign-up calendar is posted on the wall next to the church office door in the entryway. You may designate Altar Flowers in honor or memory of loved ones or a special occasion. The cost for Altar Flowers is $15.00. A side arrangement can also be provided if the altar flowers are spoken for. Please remember to clean the liners and return them to the office by Wednesday of the following week. For information, contact the church office.
The 2016 Flower Chart is on it’s way!
Sponsor a Bulletin If you would like to sponsor a Sunday worship bulletin, please indicate on the calendar the Sunday you wish to sponsor and the event it commemorates (if there is one). The cost of a weekly sponsorship is $25 and can be paid to Norine in the church office.
The UP Side
We must try to contribute joy
to the world. That is true no
matter what or problems, our
health, our circumstances. I
didn’t always know this, and
am happy I lived long enough
to find it out.”
“The person who says it
cannot be done should not
interrupt the person doing
it.”
END OF YEAR CONTRIBUTIONS
PLEASE NOTE: For bookkeeping
purposes, please plan to have all contributions for
Grace turned in to the office by December 31st.
PAGE 14
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e. P
leas
e do n
ot
chan
ge
the
bo
ard w
ithou
t noti
fyin
g t
he
off
ice.
Th
ank y
ou f
or
your
hel
p w
ith o
ur
wors
hip
ser
vic
es.
IF
YO
U C
AN
NO
T H
EL
P o
n t
he
date
(s)
ass
ign
ed, p
lease
fin
d s
om
eon
e t
o t
ak
e you
r p
lace
. P
lea
se n
oti
fy t
he
off
ice
of
the
chan
ge.
Dat
e G
reet
ers
Lec
tors
A
coly
te
Co
mm
un
ion
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 6
—8:
00 a
m
Gra
ce K
ouba
, Lay
ne N
euen
feld
t S
andr
a S
tein
brin
g A
pril
Kut
sche
nreu
ter
Lynn
& T
erry
Mat
hias
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 6
—10
:30
am
Mac
y &
Ver
onic
a S
chen
del
Ter
ry Z
imda
rs
Pay
ton
Dra
eger
D
onna
Bro
der,
Lis
a W
iese
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 13
—8:
00 a
m
Jean
Kaf
er, K
athy
Wel
ch
Lyn
Gry
ske
Ede
n M
okle
r N
A
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 13
—10
:30
am
Gra
ce K
ouba
, Lay
ne N
euen
feld
t Jo
lene
Mey
er
Jens
ine
Sal
mel
a N
A
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 20
—8:
00 a
m
Joel
& J
anie
Bro
ckm
an
Set
h Z
imda
rs
Apr
il K
utsc
henr
eute
r Jo
el &
Jan
ie B
rock
man
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 20
—10
:30
am
Loki
Lar
son,
Tom
my
Sch
ram
Y
outh
M
acy
Sch
ende
l N
A
Thu
rsda
y, D
ecem
ber
24—
4:00
pm
R
osal
ee J
ess,
Ann
Sch
ultz
Jo
hn S
tein
brin
g
Luth
er O
lsen
, Joa
n W
ade,
A
nn S
chul
tz, R
uth
Ann
Sm
ith
Thu
rsda
y, D
ecem
ber
24—
11:0
0pm
H
erm
& S
ue L
eitz
Jo
an W
ade
D
anny
& K
elly
Han
son
Frid
ay, D
ecem
ber
25—
9:00
am
S
cott
& P
hylli
s B
aldw
in
Pau
l Vel
eke
P
aul &
Mic
key
Vel
eke
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 27
—8:
00 a
m
Rog
er &
Mar
gie
Lang
eber
g Jo
dy L
arso
n B
rodi
e W
ittch
ow
NA
Sun
day,
Dec
embe
r 27
—10
:30
am
Cra
ig &
Sar
ah M
adso
n F
amily
Li
sa B
elau
NA
Us
he
r Te
am
s
Te
am
1
Te
am
2
Te
am
3
Te
am
4
Te
am
5
Sun
, Dec
. 6—
10:3
0 am
Thu
rs, D
ec. 2
4—4:
00 p
m
Sun
, Dec
. 13—
8:00
am
T
hurs
, Dec
. 24—
11:0
0 pm
S
un, D
ec. 1
3—10
:30
am
Frid
ay, D
ec. 2
5—9:
00 a
m
Sun
, Dec
. 20—
8:00
am
S
un, D
ec. 2
7—8:
00 a
m
Sun
, Dec
. 6—
8:00
am
S
un, D
ec. 2
0—10
:30
am
Sun
, Dec
. 27—
10:3
0 am
Se
ek
to
do
go
od
, an
d y
ou
wil
l fi
nd
th
at
ha
pp
ine
ss w
ill
ru
n a
fte
r y
ou
.
-
Ja
me
s F
re
em
an
Cla
rk
e
Sun
day
M
on
day
T
ue
sday
W
ed
ne
sday
T
hu
rsd
ay
Fri
day
Sa
turd
ay
1 7:
30 P
M H
all U
se
2 11:3
0 A
M R
AM
A
5:30
PM
Han
dbel
ls
6:30
PM
Adu
lt C
hoir
6:30
PM
Con
firm
atio
n
3 6:00
PM
Chr
is E
d .
4 P
C—
Dri
ll
12-2
:00P
M H
all U
se
4-8:
00 P
M D
icke
ns
Nat
ivity
Dis
play
@
Gra
ce
5 P
C—
Dri
ll
9-3:
00 P
M
Nat
ivity
Dis
play
10
-11:
00 A
M B
ell
Cho
ir @
Dic
kens
6 S
CR
IP D
ead
line
Sh
are
Yo
ur
Lo
ve T
ree
Gif
t D
ead
line
8:
00 A
M W
ors
hip
wit
h C
om
mu
nio
n
9:15
AM
SS
, Con
firm
, Adu
lt F
orum
9:
15 A
M A
ll Y
outh
—B
ake
& D
eliv
er
Coo
kies
10
:30
AM
Wo
rsh
ip w
ith
Co
mm
un
ion
7 12:0
0 P
M B
LT
1:30
PM
Sta
ff M
eetin
g
6:00
PM
Per
sonn
el M
tg.
7:00
PM
Eve
Circ
le
8 Dea
dlin
e: P
oin
sett
ia
Ord
ers
9:
00 A
M O
shko
sh C
on
5:00
PM
Sha
ring
Tab
le
6:30
PM
Pro
pert
y
9 1
1:00
AM
Dor
cas-
Wom
en’s
Lun
ch @
T
uscu
mbi
a N
oo
n -
Reb
ekah
5:
30 P
M H
andb
ells
6:
30 P
M A
dult
Cho
ir 6:
30 P
M C
onfir
mat
ion
10
7:00
PM
Pre
Sch
ool
Chr
istm
as P
rogr
am
11
12
13
Co
oki
e W
alk
S
CR
IP C
ard
Pic
k-U
p
8:00
AM
Wo
rsh
ip
9:00
AM
Cof
fee
Hou
r 9:
15 A
M S
S, C
onfir
m, A
dult
For
um
10:3
0 A
M W
ors
hip
1:
00 P
M X
mas
Sta
rs P
erfo
rman
ce
14
1:00
PM
LW
R Q
uilti
ng
15
12:3
0-5:
30 P
M
Red
Cro
ss B
lood
Driv
e
6:00
PM
150
th
Ann
iver
sary
Com
mitt
ee
Mee
ting
16
5:30
PM
Han
dbel
ls
6:30
PM
Cho
ir ca
rolin
g
6:30
PM
Con
firm
atio
n
17
No
on
G
RA
CE N
OT
ES
DE
AD
LIN
E—
JAN
&
FE
B C
OM
BIN
ED
N
EW
SL
ET
TE
R
18
19
9-10
:30
AM
SS
C
hris
tmas
P
rogr
am P
ract
ice
20
8:
00 A
M W
ors
hip
wit
h C
om
mu
nio
n
9:15
AM
SS
/Con
firm
, Adu
lt F
orum
10
:30
AM
Ch
ildre
n’s
Ch
rist
mas
P
rog
ram
—co
oki
e &
pu
nch
rec
epti
on
to
fo
llow
in F
ello
wsh
ip H
all
21
12:0
0 P
M B
LT
1:30
PM
Sta
ff M
eetin
g
6:00
PM
Cou
ncil
Mee
ting
22
23
6:30
PM
Con
firm
atio
n
24 C
hri
stm
as E
ve
Offi
ce C
lose
s N
oon
4:00
PM
Wor
ship
w
ith C
omm
unio
n
11:0
0 P
M W
orsh
ip
with
Com
mun
ion
25 C
hri
stm
as D
ay
Offi
ce C
lose
d 9:
00 A
M W
orsh
ip
with
Com
mun
ion
26
27
9:00
AM
Wo
rsh
ip
10:0
0 A
M C
offe
e H
our
NO
SS
/Con
firm
, Adu
lt F
orum
28
29
30
31
New
Yea
r’s
Eve
—O
ffic
e
clo
ses
@ n
oo
n
Dea
dlin
e: G
race
20
15 f
inan
cial
co
ntr
ibu
tio
ns
Ble
ssed
is
the
sea
son
w
hic
h e
ng
ag
es t
he
wh
ole
wo
rld
in
a
con
spir
acy
of
love
!
~
Ham
ilto
n W
righ
t M
abie
Grace Lutheran Church
430 W. Griswold Street
Ripon, WI 54971
Potter’s Wheel, Council Minutes and Members,
Holiday Worship Opportunities 1-3
TY, MOM, Sharing Table, SCRIP, Annual Meeting, Poinsettias, Christmas Cards, Advent Calendar, Christmas Stars, Contrib. Envelopes,
Blood Drive
4-5
GN Deadline, Salvation Army, Cookbooks, Basket Raffle, Beautification, Active Grace Membership, Devotionals, With Sympathy,
Property Committee, Stewardship
6-7
Christmas, Pre-School News, TY, SS Info,
Y&F, Bulletin Bloopers 8-11
Social Concerns, LWR Workday, WOG Lunch, Crèche Sets, WOG News, December Birthdays & Anniversaries, Homebound, End of Year
Contributions, UP Side, Altar Flowers, Bulletins
12-13
Worship Assistants for December, Calendar of
Events, Inside This Issue, Coming Events 14-16
COMING EVENTS!
December 4-5 Dickens Nativity Display
December 6 SCRIP Order Deadline
December 6 Share/Love Gifts Deadline
December 8 Poinsettia Order Deadline
December 8 Sharing Table Meal
December 9 WOG Lunch @ Tuscumbia
December 13 Cookie Walk/SCRIP card pick-up
December 17 Grace Notes Deadline
December 20 Children’s Christmas Program
December 24 2 Worship Services
December 25 Worship Service
December 31 Office closed @ noon/End of Yr.
Website: www.gracelutheranripon.com
Grace’s Email: [email protected]
Grace is also on Facebook!
Inside This Issue: