St. James Lutheran Church, ELCA PO Box 4596, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325-4596
Phone: (717) 334-2012 Fax: (717) 334-3596
Website: www.stjamesgettysburg.org
“We respond to God’s abundant grace by being
hearers, proclaimers and doers of the Word.”
Volume 63, No. 01 THE MESSENGER January 2018
MUSINGS from Pastor Mike [to muse (myooz), v. to think, gaze, or say wonderingly]
Three hundred years of experts were completely and utterly wrong in the information they gave Lewis and Clark as they set out on expedition to discover the Pacific Ocean.
A scholar’s mind, a pastor’s heart, and a whimsical flare for writing is what attracted me to this groundbreaking work on Christian leadership, entitled, Canoeing the Mountains. Tod Bolsinger gives us five navigational guides that I think can be helpful to us as we move into a new year:
1.) The world in front of you is nothing like the world behind you. 2.) No one is going to follow you off the map unless they trust you on the map. 3.) In unchartered territory, adaptation is everything. 4.) You can’t go alone, but you haven’t succeeded until you’ve survived the sabotage. 5.) Everybody will be changed (especially the leaders).
This book is about leadership in the church, but I think it is, more importantly, about commitment and engagement by church members into this organization we call “faith community.” If nothing I’ve written thus far on this page is enough to intrigue you, then maybe the title of the epilogue might do it: “Taking the Hill with Grandma!” Here’s a glimpse: “We have to love the kindly grandmas and grandpas, cute little children, cranky aunts and uncles, overcommitted brothers and sisters, sometimes irascible and often inspiring teenagers with whom God has called us to be spiritual family. We are all called to take the hill” [p. 220].
Thank you to our Long-Range Strategic Planning Committee that continues to meet monthly and work tirelessly, making sure we keep an eye on the future. Thank you to so very many of you who make sure this large congregation continues to be energized for mission. We have lots of individuals with the competence, courage and capacity to embrace the future of St. James. I believe there is a place for every one of you!
From my musings point of view, at the beginning of a New Year, let’s sound the call for all of us to be true adventurers for the mission of God in a rapidly changing world. Happy 2018!
Dinner & Worship Assistants Training WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2018 -- Dinner at 5:15 pm & Training at 6:00 pm
We invite adults and youth of all ages to join us for a time of “creating worship together” as we offer training (or re-training) for ushers, communion assistants, sacristy helpers, bell ringers, acolytes, greeters, flower deliverers, and youth greeters. The meal will be provided. Come as a family, bring your children, join in finding a part for you in our weekend worship services. We will be finished by 7:00 pm. We especially invite those who have considered helping at worship but haven’t known where they fit in! Join us this evening and we will help you find a role that matches your longing!
Come to Worship: Saturday 5:30 pm & Sunday 8:15 & 10:45 am Sunday School from 9:30-10:30 am
JANUARY 6 & 7 – BAPTISM OF OUR LORD We are called God’s beloved children through our Baptism, and then set on Jesus’ mission to re-create the world in the image of God’s vision of justice and peace. We remember aloud all those baptized over the past year. Readings: Genesis 1:1-5, Psalm 29, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 First Sunday Fellowship at 9:15 am; hosted by Endowment and Child Care Governance Committees. Food items collected at all services benefit local food pantries; under the auspices of Social Ministry.
Baptism of Our Lord On January 6 & 7, we will acknowledge those baptized since Baptism of Our Lord 2017, including these families in prayer as they continue to grow in their faith. “We welcome you into the body of Christ and the mission we share. Join us as we give praise to God and bear God’s creative and redeeming word to all the world.”
Thomas M. Butler Reese Avery Banaszek
Izabella McKenzie Cosden Brittney Nicole (Bollinger) Long
Ariana Maddison Cosden Liam Patrick Reilly
Eliza Ruth Crowell John Nicholas Scavitto
Connor James Clowney Jack Vincent Altemose
Anna Grace Reed Emma Kae Smith
Leighton Matthew Witherow Roman Andrew Mauston
JANUARY 13 & 14 – EPIPHANY 2 In John’s gospel, Jesus’ ministry begins with the call of disciples, who then bring others to Jesus. Our invitation to others should be, “Come and see.” Readings: 1 Samuel 3:1-10 [11-20], Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18, 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51
JANUARY 20 & 21 – EPIPHANY 3 Stories of the call to discipleship continue as the time after Epiphany plays out the implications of our baptismal calling to show Christ to the world. Readings: Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20
JANUARY 27 & 28 – EPIPHANY 4 Sunday morning worship led by the Miracle Workers. They are a group of special needs citizens who met at the Special Olympics and came together in faith at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Littlestown. They enjoy ministry work and leading worship at their church several times a year. They led Sunday services at St. James this past April 23, too. We hope you’ll attend church that day to see them in action! Prayers of Healing at end of all three worship services. Readings: Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28
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A NOTE FROM PASTOR ANDREW: One of the highlighted areas in need of attention from our Holy Cow Congregational Assessment was
congregational care. Since receiving these results, I have shared with staff and our Long Range
Strategic Planning Taskforce that I believe one of the ways to respond to this need may be through
the formation of small groups designated to fill a specific need. Through these conversations, it
feels as though the best place to start would be a group for those mourning the loss of a loved
one. With this, I would like to get feedback from people who would be interested in such a group.
It could be as simple as meeting at a local restaurant once a month for a time of food and fellowship
over lunch. If you would be interested in something like, or have other thoughts, this please contact
me via email ([email protected]) or phone me at (717) 334-2012 ext. 206.
MISSION SUPPORT CORNER – Extravagant Generosity (Pr. Andrew)
Matthew 2: 11
On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and
worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense
and of myrrh.
Throughout the season of Advent, we focused on the theme, Prepare the way: The path from crooked
to straight. We heard members of St. James share stories of how life has not always gone according
to plan, yet through God’s presence, new life has come.
As we move from the season of Christmas and into the season of Epiphany, our focus moves from
the birth of Christ, to how he is revealed first to the Wise Men, and then, to the world. Along with
the Wise Men, we are called to offer our best to Christ, bearing witness to God’s grace and mercy
made true through his birth.
What are some ways that you respond to God’s grace and mercy? How do you, through your
generosity, offer your best to Christ, that His light would shine into the lives of others?
“Financial Peace Course”
Several local churches are jointly coordinating a nine-week course where you’ll learn practical ways
to pay off debt, save for the future, and increase your levels of generosity. This course will walk
you through creating a plan to replace financial worries with financial peace. If you’re interested in
participating in the upcoming Financial Peace course: There will be a class preview on January 3 at
7:00 pm. Classes start on January 10 at 7:00 pm & meet every Wednesday for nine weeks at
Gettysburg United Methodist Church, 30 West High Street. To register go to –
daveramsey.com/findaclass; coordinator’s e-mail is [email protected]
Thank you to all of the volunteers, donors and St. James office staff who helped
to make this year’s Holiday Outreach Program a huge success! We couldn’t
have done this without you! Over 1,500 families, disabled and elderly people
in Adams County will have a brighter Christmas this year! Thank you!!
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This Haitian art was purchased by a member of the St. James Congregation during the 2017 Global
Mission Festival (sponsored by the World Outreach Committee) and given to St. James Lutheran
Church, in celebration of its partnership with Source of Life Ministries, Haiti. Its location and display
schedule shall be determined by the Art & Design Committee.
DECEMBER 20, 2017 COUNCIL REPORT SUBMITTED BY CRAIG REBER, COUNCIL SECRETARY
MINUTES/CORRESPONDENCE/ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• The Spiritual Gifts Coordinator position has been advertised in The Messenger and bulletins, and on these
websites: Indeed, Synod, and Seminary.
TREASURER’S REPORT:
• Offerings have been increasing over the last month. The Giving Fund is running a deficit; however, the number
is lower than this time last year.
• God on the Ground – A new fund that St. James will be overseeing.
• When the Giving Fund interest is determined, distribution will be decided by Council.
• Treasurer’s Report motioned by Shawn Waybrant, seconded by Jim Lohuis; report approved.
NEW MEMBER: Roman Andrew Mauston/baptism; approved.
COMMITTEE REPORT:
• Pastor Andrew shared that Evangelism has had great success recently. The Advent Mid-week dinners and
worship services enjoyed a great turn out.
OLD BUSINESS:
• The Church Pictorial Directory will come out in February.
• The Budget Shortfall for 2017 was discussed by Jim Lohuis.
NEW BUSINESS:
• Ron Couchman moved that Advent and Christmas Special Giving Fund be given by thirds to: Worship Area
Renewal Fund, Mission Fund, and Current Giving Fund; motion seconded by Shawn Waybrant.
• Property Committee met to discuss and develop a Safety and Emergency Response Policy. Conversations will
continue amongst Staff, Property and Council.
• Council wants to thank our entire Church Staff for all their enthusiasm and hard work.
GOOD FOR GOD:
• Gettysburg Dental Associates will be making a donation for Gettysburg C.A.R.E.S.
• Gettysburg C.A.R.E.S. is sleeping overnight at St. James through Christmas morning.
• Source of Life, Haiti Mission Trip – nine members of our congregation will be going!
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ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL 9:30-10:30 AM
ADULT DISCUSSION CLASS meets in room 200, at the end of the main hallway; Judy Leslie, contact. Every Sunday we enjoy timely presentations and discussions. Join us!
Jan. 7: “Mountains of the Gods at Angkor (Lecture 29) by Professor John R. Hale” led by Jim & Susan Roach
Jan. 14: “Nonviolence: Through the Eyes of a Conscientious Objector” led by Phil Roth
Jan. 21: “A Frank Discussion of a Hard Topic: Suicide” led by Margaret Swartz
Jan. 28: “Migration is not a Crime” led by Judy Leslie
In January, the EXPLORING FAITH CLASS will be reading and discussing Paul Among the People: The Apostle Reinterpreted and Reimagined in His Own Time by Sarah Ruden. The book explores the writings of the evangelist Paul in the context of his time and culture, to recover his original message of freedom and love. Please join us in Room 300, upper level!
SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY meets in Room 303, upper level, elevator available. Winter Series: Faith in Action (lesson stands alone so join us as your schedule allows).
Jan. 7: A Sincere Faith (Daniel 1: 8-21) John Hartzell
Jan. 14: A Bold Faith (Daniel 3:19-23, 26-28) Jennifer Bradshaw
Jan. 21: A Prayer for an Obedient Faith (Daniel 9: 1-19) Jennifer Bradshaw
Jan. 28: A Strong Faith (Daniel 10: 10-19) Ron Couchman
PARISH RECORDS
DEATHS
December 10, 2017 Richard M. Kreisher December 19, 2017 Elizabeth A. Farrar
WEDDINGS
December 9, 2017 Erica Pennington & Adam Hogan
December 16, 2017 Sara Fleshman & Allex Hartzell
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If your child is interested in receiving
FIRST COMMUNION, please contact one of our pastors.
Also, if you would like
to PRE-ARRANGE FUNERAL SERVICES, please talk to a pastor.
During the Christmas Season, Outside Wreaths were given to the glory of God and in loving memory
of Our Parents; and, in loving honor of our Children and Grandchildren by John and Judy Seilhamer.
Poinsettias and/or donations for World Hunger were given to the glory of God and in loving honor of:
The Braband Family by a friend
Family Members by Jack and Sally Crist
Stacey L. Green, Rebecca L. Dooley and family, Lauren E. Hill by Wayne and Susan Hill
Our children, Alana and Hannah by Kim and Michael Guise
Our Children and Grandchildren by Mark & Peggy Terry
Our Faithful Choir Members by Tim and Barbara Braband
St. James Pastors and Staff by Dee Wells
Barbara Vossler-Siemaszko by Tom and Barbara Vossler
A. Lorraine Waybright by Bert and Sherry Waybright
Poinsettias and/or donations for World Hunger were given to the glory of God and in loving memory of:
My grandparents, Ruth and Edgar Allen by John Doerfler
Eloise Auxt by Phil and Tara Baugher
John H. Baugher by Phil and Tara Baugher
Kathleen Blum by her daughter, Carol Widerman
G. Richard and Glenna Boyer by their children and families: Carole, Anna, Peggy and Kenneth
Ned D. Crouse by Joyce Crouse and family
My mother, Mary A. Doerfler by John Doerfler
My grandparents, Mary and Joseph Doerfler by John Doerfler
W. Raymond and Evelyn M. Eiker by their daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Gene Riffle
Dennis Frankfort by his mother, Ruth Frankfort
Our father, Sebastian R. Hafer by Jane, Charlie, Susan and Bob
Our mother, Helen S. Hafer by Jane, Charlie, Susan and Bob
Joel and Lucille Hill, Gary M. Hill, Emmert and Hazel Colestock, John M. Colestock, Robert L. Morris by Wayne and Susan Hill
Calvin Johnson and all our parents: R.H. Johnson, Amelia and Lester and Gladys Starry by Dorothy Johnson, Larry Johnson, and Linda Starry
Margaret J. Keyser by E. Edward Keyser and family
Margie Keyser by The Christianson Family
Charles Kitzmiller by Phyllis Kitzmiller and family
Our parents: Martha and John Knittle and Helen and Michael Terry by Mark and Peggy Terry
Richard Kreisher by his wife, Lynne Kreisher
Harriett Kwitowski by Lexie Crowner
Our Loved Ones by Janice and Walter Krug
Our Loved Ones by Shirley and Dave Sanders and family
Our Parents by Judy and Ken Boyer
Our Parents by Charles and Anne Gomer
J. Herbert and Frances Raymond by Betty Raymond and Eugene Rakestraw
Nelson and Hazel Sixeas by Janet Rice and family
Carol K. Smith by Carroll B. Smith, Jr.
Luther and Lois Smith by Eric and Colleen Smith and family
Michael W. Smith by Carroll B. Smith, Jr.
Charlie Sterner III by his wife Bernadette and son Charlie and family
C.H. and Virginia B. Stevens by Tom and Barbara Vossler
William R. Vossler by Tom and Barbara Vossler - 6 -
“….and behold I bring you tidings of great joy ..."
Heartfelt thanks from all members of the World Outreach Committee to all friends and family of St. James Lutheran Church. Through your generosity we have fulfilled two of our mission goals, i. e., to "educate members about our Global Mission partners and to promote financial support of these partners." We received the following contributions during the Global Mission Festival held November 25 and 26.
$376.30 LWR-Puerto Rico Relief through the sale of chocolate and teas
$315.00 God's Global Barnyard through the sale of Advent ornaments
$ 33.50 Project Gettysburg-Leon through the sale of Nicaraguan coffee
$375.00 Source of Life Ministries through the sale of vanilla, ketchup, and art work
$850.00 Southern Christian Nurses Conference/World Mission Prayer League through the sale of scarves
Total contributions = $1949.80! Furthermore, the World Outreach Committee has committed an additional $500 from its annual budget to LWR-Puerto Rico. What a blessing the St. James Faith Community is! We wish you a Merry and Blessed Christmas!
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STEPHEN MINISTER TRAINING Please consider enrolling in Stephen Minister Training in the Spring if you are feeling called to this ministry. Dates and times will be available after a class of eight is formed. Stephen Minister training is an engaging, energizing experience that includes a mixture of lecture, video, group discussion, skill practice, and spiritual growth activities.
“The Best 50 Hours of Training You'll Ever Experience!”
Here’s what Stephen Ministers frequently say about their training:
• Stephen Minister training teaches principles and skills that equip you to provide high-quality, Christ-centered emotional and spiritual care to others. • You gain insight into the thoughts, feelings, and actions of people who are hurting. • You develop relational and caring skills you can apply to all aspects of your life. • You deepen your faith as the Holy Spirit fashions you into a Christ-centered caregiver. • You feel a special bond with those in your class—experiencing real Christian community. • Stephen Minister training is a lot of fun! • To discuss your interest in Stephen Ministry at St. James, please contact our congre- gation's Stephen Ministry leaders: Pastor Mike, Pastor Andrew, Jennifer Bradshaw, or Sue Hill by calling the church office at 717-334-2012. One of the leaders will return your call as soon as possible.
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Happy New Year! This month is full of retreats and a
new schedule for middle and high school youth groups.
Please contact Jess with any questions about the
schedule. Reminder about Youth Breakfast: if school
is delayed 2 hours, breakfast is delayed 2 hours. If
school is cancelled, there is no breakfast.
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 3RD: Youth Breakfast is back...
• 6:45 am at the Youth House (121/123 York St.)!
• 5:30pm High School Reading Group at the Foltz’.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 7TH, 5:00-7:00 PM: Dinner Church with St. John’s Abbottstown and the Upper Adams
Lutheran Churches. Join us for dinner and a quick service while we eat. We will meet at the New Hope Ministries
building in Hanover; they have agreed to let us use their awesome space and might even provide a service project
for us to do while we are there. It will be a great night--I hope you can make it! Please see the ad below!!
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10TH: MS & HS Wednesday Night Youth Group BEGINS!! We will meet for dinner,
discussion, and fellowship from 5:30-7:00 pm. Please come and go as you need, based on your schedule.
JANUARY 12TH-14TH: Middle School at Baltimore Quake.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17TH: MS & HS Wednesday Night Youth Group 5:30-7:00 pm at the Youth House.
JANUARY 19TH-21ST: High School Road Trip Retreat at OC, MD with Delaware/Maryland Synod.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24TH: K-5 Youth Group and Choir are back!!
5:30 pm MS & HS Youth Group at the Youth House (121/123 York St.).
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31ST: Hoss’s Youth Fundraiser…come support our Youth Groups!!
(MS & HS Youth Group will meet at Hoss’s tonight. Please meet us
at Hoss’s at 5:30 pm, and we’ll get our own table and eat together!!)
SAVE THESE DATES:
FEB. 2ND-4TH: 8th & 9th Grade Washington, DC Retreat
SUNDAY, FEB. 4TH 12 PM: Lunch & Youth Gathering
Meeting in the Youth House. Please try and be there,
as this is an important meeting if you are attending
Houston Youth Gathering!
FEB. 11TH-13TH: FASTNACHTS!! Please sign up to
Order here, or work a shift (or 3!) here.
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Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
CHURCH OFFICE & CHILD CARE
CLOSED
2
1:30 pm Staff Meeting
(OFFICE CLOSED)
5:00 pm Endowment 6:00 pm Child Care Gov. 6:30 pm Property (note Jan. change) 7:00 pm Evangelism 7:30 pm Worship & Music
3
6:45 am MS/HS Breakfast 9:30 am Child Care Chapel 10:00 am Bible Study 10:30 am Prayer Shawl 5:30 pm High School Reading Group at the Foltz’ 7:00 pm Mission Fund
NO Elementary Choirs & Youth Groups
4
10:00 am Creation Care 6:00 pm Christian Education 7:30 pm Adult Choir
NO Bible Study
5
6 Baptism of Our Lord
Food Donations Weekend
5:30 pm Communion
7 Baptism of Our Lord
Food Donations Weekend
8:15 am Communion 9:15 am Fellowship 9:30 am Sunday School 10:45 am Communion 5:00 pm Dinner Church at New Hope’s Hanover Center
8
7:00 pm Personnel
9
1:30 pm Staff Meeting (OFFICE CLOSED)
10
6:45 am MS/HS Breakfast 8:30 am Executive 9:30 am Child Care Chapel 10:00 am Bible Study 10:30 am Prayer Shawl 5:30 pm Middle & High School Youth Group
NO Elementary Choirs & Youth Groups
11
10:00 am Bible Study
NO Adult Choir
12
Jan. 12-14
Middle School at Baltimore Quake
13 Epiphany 2
5:30 pm Communion
14 Epiphany 2
8:15 am Communion 9:30 am Sunday School Second Sunday of Service 10:45 am Communion
15
The Messenger DEADLINE
16
1:30 pm Staff Meeting (OFFICE CLOSED)
7:00 pm Library 7:15 pm Social Ministry
17
6:45 am MS/HS Breakfast 9:30 am Child Care Chapel 10:00 am Stephen Ministers 10:00 am Bible Study 10:30 am Prayer Shawl 5:30 pm Middle & High School Youth Group 7:00 pm COUNCIL
NO Elementary Choirs & Youth Groups
18
10:00 am Bible Study 7:30 pm Adult Choir
19
Jan. 19-21
High School Road Trip Retreat
at OC, MD
w/DE-MD Synod
20 Epiphany 3
5:30 pm Communion
21 Epiphany 3
8:15 am Communion 9:30 am Sunday School
10:45 am Communion
7:30 pm Martin Luther Choir
22
10:00-2:00 pm Quilting 1:30 pm Archives
23
1:30 pm Staff Meeting (OFFICE CLOSED)
6:00 pm World Outreach 7:00 pm Mission Support 7:30 pm Art & Design
24
6:45 am MS/HS Breakfast 9:00 am Messenger Volunteers & Messenger mailed 9:30 am Child Care Chapel 10:00 am Bible Study 10:30 am Prayer Shawl 3:30 pm Elementary Choirs & Youth Groups 5:15 pm Dinner followed by 6:00-7:00 pm Worship Assistants Training 5:30 pm Middle & High School Youth Group
25
10:00 am Bible Study 7:30 pm Adult Choir
26
Jan. 26-29
Jess Smith in Houston, Texas for ELCA Youth
Gathering Preview & Continuing Ed.
27 Epiphany 4
5:30 pm Communion & Prayers for Healing
28 Epiphany 4
8:15 am Communion & Prayers for Healing 9:30 am Sunday School 10:45 am Communion & Prayers for Healing
29
30
1:30 pm Staff Meeting (OFFICE CLOSED)
31
6:45 am MS/HS Breakfast 9:30 am Child Care Chapel 10:00 am Bible Study 10:30 am Prayer Shawl 3:30 pm Elementary Choirs & Youth Groups 5:30 pm Middle & High School Youth Group at Hoss’s
Hoss’s Youth Fundraiser
FEBRUARY 2-4 Washington, DC Confirmation Retreat at Luther Place
ST. JAMES
LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA
PO BOX 4596, GETTYSBURG, PA 17325-4596
The Messenger will next be
processed Wednesday, Jan. 24.
All articles must be e-mailed to
BY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15!
PLACE
POSTAGE
HERE
LABEL
Calling St. James at (717) 334-2012 Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Wednesday, 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
When calling our church office, you will reach the automated
phone system. Please leave a message on staff members’ voice-
mails by immediately pressing their extension number listed below.
201 Katheryn M. Clowney Office Manager
202 Debra L. Nimtz Administrative Assistant
205 Pr. Michael E. Allwein Senior Pastor
206 Pr. Andrew R. Geib Associate Pastor
207 Jessica L. Smith Youth Minister
209 Timothy E. Braband Minister of Music
215 G. Thomas Bender Building Superintendent