November 2013
Realizing How Much God Loves You Luke 15:11-32
H ow do you see God’s love in your daily life? Jesus’ parable of the
prodigal son is a story of the deep and profound love of a father
for his son. This parable could also be named the parable of the
prodigal father. It is the father who is acting imprudently and extravagantly -
showering unconditional love on his sons, despite their selfish and jealous
behavior. Similarly, God’s most basic character is unconditional, extravagant
love for God’s children.
What experiences in life are brought to memory by this parable? Has there
been a time in your life when you wanted to go off to a far country or to start a
new adventure? It was not unusual for younger Jewish sons to venture away
from the ancestral home. In colonial England, it was not unusual for sons to
venture to the colonies to start a new life. And earlier in our own country’s
history, it was not unusual for sons to respond to the challenge, “Go west,
young man.”
Life in Jesus is always a call to live in a “new creation”, a “new age”. It is
sometimes difficult for us to grasp the significance of Jesus’ teachings. Yet as
our experiences evolve there are revelations that show us God’s love and
presence in our every day lives. The older son struggled to accept the loving
relationship of his father and brother upon the brother’s return. Yet the father’s
love was free, unmerited and unconditional to both sons. It is this kind of love
that God has for God’s people.
In reflecting on the breadth of God’s love, what steps might you take in your
life to enhance your realization of God’s love?
Prayer of the month for November 2013
Lord God, you are a loving Creator and Provider. Help us to see your
presence in our daily life, in the gift of life, in the gift of your son Jesus
Christ and in the community of faith - the Body of Christ on earth. Give
us the vision to look beyond our personal desires and needs. Give us the
sensitivity to hear your word above our daily activity. Open our eyes to
the times when we are like the sons in Jesus’ parable, only wanting for
ourselves. May the Holy Spirit give us guidance to know your loving
presence and will in our life. Amen.
Adapted from Stepping Stones of a Steward by Ron Valiet. Used by permission.
In this issue
Thanksgiving Services 3
Council News 4
Stewardship in 5 Simple Steps
7
Angel Tree Program 2012 9
A Place of Grace 11
Annual Christmas Bazaar 12
Herald’s Mail Box 13
St. John's Lutheran Church 8808 Harford Rd.
Parkville, MD 21234
Co-pastors
The Rev. Danny R. Hammons
The Rev. Maria J. Hammons
Secretary
Carol Erpenstein
Director of Music
Martha Requard
Preschool Teacher/Director
Lisa Horst
Preschool Teacher’s Aide
Niki Thoericht
Sexton
Al Johnson
Pastor Emeritus
The Rev. Richard Manning
Thank you God!
D ear Family and Friends of St. John's … Thanksgiving is a time
that we remember to be thankful for the food we eat all year long
…and that - most of us - will overeat on Thanksgiving Day. We
are not the first to celebrate our bountiful gifts in this way.
One of the main Jewish festivals is Purim - celebrated in remembrance of
being delivered from the threat of extermination at the hand of Hamman, a
Persian politician during the exile. The Festival of Purim is celebrated by
eating and drinking... in excess. (Read this story in the Book of Esther).
As we think about those early settlers on that “first Thanksgiving” in the
colonies, it was celebrated during a time when the colony had almost been
wiped out by disease and hunger. It was after the local community of native
people, the Wampanoag tribe, shared with the Pilgrims their knowledge of
local crops and helped them to survive, that they then held a feast. From that
day on, the pilgrims had plenty of Thanksgiving days and they all centered
around prayer, but that first thanksgiving day was a feast shared to celebrate
and give thanks that they survived.
The Israelites in exile and our Pilgrim ancestors shared a common victory -
and that is that their survival was provided by God working through others…
once through “Mordecai the Jew”, and again through the Wampanog tribe.
And both celebrated by sharing a feast. We, also, have ample reason to
celebrate this Thanksgiving with a feast, as we thank God for our abundance.
And while we’re at it, let’s also practice another tradition of Purim - sharing
food with those who don’t have any. GOD knows…we’ll have plenty!
Blessed Thanksgiving!
Pastor Danny & Pastor Maria
2
Wor
ship &
Mus
ic
Baptisms
October: None
Weddings
October:
Patrick Merrey & Jessica Wellman
Fro
m th
e
Pasto
r's D
esk
Worship & Music articles continue on page 3
Poinsettias For Christmas - Order Nov 10-Dec 1, 2013
Christmas is right around the corner! Poinsettias will cost $10
each (same as last year). Please look for the order form inserted
in the church bulletin beginning November 10 and ending on
December 1. No order will be accepted after December 1. Thank
you for placing your orders as quickly as possible. If you have
any questions, please contact Linda Watts at 410-676-7547
Worship & Music News (cont.)
Notes from the organ bench
I n the September
newsletter I
told you about
Ken Medema and the
invitation he received
to dance, and asked you
to consider accepting
the Lord’s invitation
to “dance” and take a
more active part in
worship. WOW! What
a response! The Adult
Choir added four new
members, the Handbells have a new ringer (or, as the ringers refers to
themselves, another “ding-a-ling”), there are five Tween singers, and the
Children’s Choir now has eleven singers. And, when outdoor soccer ends,
the children’s groups will grow by at least three more singers! And, there
have been offers by instrumentalists to add their talents! The Lord is good -
all the time!
With November ahead of us, the choirs are beginning to prepare for Advent
and Christmas. The Adult Choir will again be presenting a cantata, on the
last Sunday in Advent, December 22, during the 11 a.m. Worship Service.
The children will present their musical at the Family Service, 4:00 p.m. on
Christmas Eve. If you or someone you know would like to participate in
either of these activities, let me know and I will keep you informed of our
rehearsal schedule.
OH - do you have problems with your blood pressure? A few weeks ago
I heard a report of a study that showed that after people spent time singing
with others, their blood pressure readings dropped. What better reason do
you need to sing or play in one of the choirs? There’s always room for one
more in the choir.
Whether or not you accept my invitation to help make music at St. John’s,
remember to keep
Making a Joyful Noise,
Martha Requard
3
ALL SAINTS SUNDAY
Sunday, November 3
Services at 8:15 & 11:00 a.m.
We remember and honor those
saints who have gone before us.
Well done, good and faithful servants!
It’s time to “fall back”!
Don’t forget…
Change your clocks
Sunday, November 3,
at 2 a.m.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
JOIN US AS WE THANK THE LORD FOR OUR MANY BLESSINGS!
Thanksgiving Eve Ecumenical Service
Hiss United Methodist Church
Wednesday, November 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Thanksgiving Day Communion Service at St. John’s
Thursday, November 28, at 10:00 a.m.
4
Congre
gatio
nal
Counci
l
CONGREGATIONAL COUNCIL MEMBERS
Tony Jasinski, president
Lee Smith, vice president
Shirley Snyder, secretary
Chris Hills, treasurer
Cindy Weeks, financial secretary
Charles Bender
Sharon Carletti
Doug Meekins
Laurie Krieger
Bonnie Rogers
Sue Addison
Bonnie Spellman
What’s happening with the Council?
C ongregational Council President Tony Jasinski called the
October council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., and suspended
the regular order of business so that Beth Gray and her son,
Matt Scheindlinger, representing the Young Families, could present a
proposal for an Edible Community Garden. It would be located on the
lot next to the parsonage (where we began planting a community garden
a couple of years ago). Their proposal will be fully considered at the
November Council meeting.
Immediately after the presentation the council opened with devotions
led by Laurie Krieger, and then dealt with the usual monthly reports.
New business included discussions regarding recent damage to the Lab-
yrinth area. Pastor Danny and the Labyrinth Ministry Team will write a
letter to the residents on Manns Ave explaining the purpose of a Laby-
rinth and the park, “A Place for Grace” and ask them to talk to their
children and teens about respecting the sacredness of this space.
A request was received from the Young Families, and approved by
Council, that they be permitted to sell glow necklaces at St. John’s
Trunk ‘N Treat on Friday, October 25.
Vice President Lee Smith, who also chairs the Finance Ministry Team,
presented the proposed 2014 Budget. After extensive discussion, the
Council approved the budget for presentation to the congregation
for initial review and feedback on Sunday, November 3, at 9:30
a.m., in the Fellowship Hall.
The council will consider the congregation's feedback at its November
meeting. The final draft will be presented to the congregation for discus-
sion and approval at the Congregational meeting set for December 8.
Mark your calendar for the
FALL CONGREGATIONAL
MEETING
Sunday, December 8
(one Service Sunday)
10:00 a.m. Youth Service!
11:00 a.m. Annual Meeting with
reception of New Members!
Congregational Pot Luck
Luncheon follows!
► Budget ◄
► Council Elections ◄
125th Commemorative Gifts Available
If you are looking for possible Christmas gifts, there are still St.
John’s 125th Anniversary Commemorative items available.
Christmas Balls - $10
Cookbooks - $10
Cat’s Meow Blocks - $15 (only a few are left)
Blankets - $40
To purchase any of the above items, visit the display table set up at
the Christmas Bazaar or stop in the church office.
5
Sunday School news
Con
greg
atio
nal C
are Please remember these individuals in your prayers
For health and healing: Marlene Meyer, Mary Lynn Lenz, Dale Pickett,
Dot Vogt, Mildred Kempske, Ann Powell, Bill Rogers, Ephraim Shaud,
Rosalie Coffman, Pat Denk, Tammy Heyl, Sheena Bittner, Dick Weger,
Mil Schaffer, Doris Warfield, Bill Ortloff, Bob & Mil Baxter for family &
friends Lisa Curnoles, Alan Fox, Cheri Lauman, Mandy Kent, Joe Janovec,
Jennifer Merrick, Lou Markel, Sadie Selzer, John Bielat, Greg Wellman,
Claire Svehla, Richard Healy, Aaron Ochalek, Shirley Upchurch, Albert
Gross, Beverly Nirenberg; for the military & their families: Maria Burgos,
Keith Gibson, Brian Hedges, Tony Rossi, Jesse Testudine, Chaplain Chris
Frigm, and all those in harm’s way; and for our homebound parishioners:
Richard and Alma Arnold, Murhl and Evelyn Bauer, Alice Belth, Agatha
Biensach, Joan and George Cooper, Mary Curnoles, Carmen and Norma
DeMarino, Lucille Dembeck, Ruth Derrickson, Pete and Marge Francis,
Georgia Franz, Ellie Fry, Mabel Gehring, Betty Glassband, Henry & Bernice
Graf, Jim Hines, Paul Huber, George Hutschenreuter, Paul Insley, Helene &
Stewart Jung, Eddie Kempske, Mildred Kempske, Bunny Kucharski, John
Lotterer, Evelyn McGuire, Jerry Mead, Marlene Meyer, Margaret Middleton,
Eurith Morris, Bill Ortloff, Edie Petr, Nancy Ritz, Carolyn Robey, Ruby
Schaum, Elaine Schlicht, Larry Shepherd, Mary Sigmon, John Sperl, Charles
and Dot Stairs, Gerry Stipek, Edna Stratmeyer, Doris Subock, Cass Tracey,
Helen Trainor, Elaine Turek, Ilene Vicarini, Dot Vogt, Emma Volz, Dick
Weger, Clara Westphal, Helen Wheeler, Phyllis Williams, John WInebrenner,
and Fran Wolinski.
Chr
istia
n Edu
catio
n
& Pre
scho
ol
We offer prayers and sympathy
to the family and friends of
Peggy Schaefer
John Wellman
Robert Vicarini
Theodore Burkhardt
Christian Ed/Preschool articles continue on page 6
By Rachel Hills
During the month of November, the Sunday School will continue to
collect canned goods, which will be donated to the food pantries that
the church supports. Please bring canned goods to your child’s classroom
by the end of November.
Help us update our
records! If you have not
completed a registration form
for your child this year, please
ask your child’s teacher for a
copy or stop by the Christian
Education office on the 2nd
floor.
This month, Sunday School
children in the nursery class
through 5th grade will be
learning Bible stories about
Hezekiah, Esther, the three men in the fiery furnace, and Daniel. Ask them
to tell you what they have learned about these important people from the
Old Testament.
6
Christian Ed. & Preschool (cont.)
First Communion Classes will be held on three consecutive
Wednesday evenings, December 4, 11, and 18. Classes will begin at 7 pm,
and last no longer than 45 minutes. We will meet in the Christian Education
Room (on the second floor). The program we use is designed for children and
parents, so we ask that one or both parents attend with their children. Together
we will talk about God’s gift of love that comes to us in the Lord’s Supper and
what Communion means to us.
The children will then receive their First Communion on Christmas Eve at
St. John’s Family Service at 4 p.m. Note: First Communion at St. John’s is
generally offered to children 8 or older. However, if your younger child is
asking to receive communion and you would like to discuss this possibility,
please talk with the Pastors.
Please call or email the Church Office to indicate your desire to attend so we
can plan accordingly -- (410-665-1234) or [email protected].
Congratulations! These Students did
not miss any Sundays in September!
Corinne Brock
Emily Brock
Brandon Crites
Brody Evans
Hayden Evans
Landry Evans
Marissa Evans
Gabby Gray
Hannah Gray
Zachary Hills
John Meyers
Kirsten Miller
Matthew Miller
Garrett Morgan
Emily Rash
Michael Rash
Taylor Retkowski
Faith Rykaczewski
Matthew Scheindlinger
Sarah Scheindlinger
Abigail Schwartz-Mitchell
Genevieve Schwartz-Mitchell
Katherine Schwartz-Mitchell
Ephraim Shaud
Chad Votta, Jr.
Autumn Winterling
These students missed only one
Sunday during September!
Annie Bennett
Jack Bennett
Karli Cappucci
Kyle Cappucci
Abbie Coffman
Carly Coffman
Ryan Cummings
Austin Flagle
Sarah Flagle
Nate Grisez
Joshua Hills
Erin Hyman
Morgan Perzan
Noah Shull
Olivia Shull
Sophia Shull
Ethan Sommer
Kurtis Sommer
Giavanna Tilton
Kayla Tilton
Gabrille Tindall
Jacob Tindall
James Paul White
Adult Forum: Cost of Discipleship Dietrich Bonhoeffer:
Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance,
baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution
without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace
without the Cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
...Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it
calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and
it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it con-
demns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly be-
cause it costs God the life of His Son: "ye were bought at a price," and what has
cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did
not reckon His Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but deliver Him up for
us. Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.
Synod News … "Listening Posts" The Delaware-Maryland Synod is engaged in a year-long strategic
planning process that is expected to result in a Strategic Mission
Plan for the years 2014-2018. Called "Vision 2018: Discerning God's
Plan," this process is designed to involve as many people as possible
to collect the broadest possible input from across the synod. It is
based on prayerful discernment and communal Bible study to seek
God's will for our Synod as we move forward in mission in a changed
landscape. You are invited to attend one of these “listening posts”.
The "listening posts" which are nearest to St. John’s are:
Saturday, November 2, 2013, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
Ascension Lutheran Church, 7601 York Road, Towson
Prince of Peace , 8212 Philadelphia Rd., Rosedale
Good Shepherd Lutheran, 1515 Emmorton Rd., Bel Air
Saturday, November 9, 2013, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
Epiphany Lutheran Church, 4301 Raspe Ave.,
Baltimore, MD 21206
7
Ste
war
dship
Stewardship in 5 Simple Steps
By Rev. Rob Blezard, Stewardship of Life Institute
W hen my congregation sends out it annual “Stewardship Seeds”
campaign package, we include a flier that outlines a five-step
process for determining a level for giving. We call it “5 Simple
Steps”.
Most people don’t know where to start when it comes to giving. Here is a
simple five-step process to help you along. Please follow the steps even if
you are pretty sure you won’t make changes to your giving pattern. As with
many aspects of faith, the process is as important as outcomes.
Step 1: Make a Blessings List - Let’s face it: Most of us take our blessings
for granted most of the time. Start by listing all your blessings. Invite family
members to help you list all your blessings in the following areas: 1) Health.
2) Family. 3) Friends. 4) Security. 5) Housing. 6) Faith. 7) Possessions.
8) Finances. Add to the list as you think of more blessings.
Step 2: Pray Over Your Blessings - In the morning or at bedtime - whenever
you pray - look over your list and thank God for your blessings. For each, say
aloud or in your thoughts, Ï thank you, God for ______.” Make copies for
other members of your family and ask them to pray too.
Step 3: Re-read the Materials - The packet you received with your pledge
card contains a lot of information. After you’ve prayed over your blessings for
a few days, read through the materials one more time. Give the ideas prayerful
consideration.
Step 4: Pray for Guidance - In your prayers, ask that God will lead you
deeper into faith, bringing the Holy Spirit into your life in refreshing ways.
Pray that God will help you decide on an appropriate response for all that God
has given you.
Step 5: Make a Plan for Follow Through - When you have reached a
decision on a level of giving by week, month or year, make a plan for follow
through. You have made a commitment to yourself, why not let the church
know so we may better plan our finances? Consider signing up for the Simply
Giving, which enables you to make automatic offerings from your bank. If
you need offering envelopes, please ask the church office.
And whatever you decide, GOD BLESS YOU!
IRA ROLLOVER!
The Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was carried over through 2013,
to those who wish to make a charitable contribution from their IRA.
Donors age 70 1/2 can ask their IRA custodian to make a gift in
2013 to St. John’s Lutheran Church. The transfer will be a tax-free
transfer to the church, and thus equivalent to a 100 percent charitable
deduction. Please check with your financial advisor to see if this is
appropriate for you.
CONSUMER ALERT
Verizon has reduced the number of 411
directory assistance calls from four to
two per month. Each call after two will
cost you $1.99.
Here are some things you can do to help
you to obtain free Directory Assistance
information and help you avoid fees.
Obtain Verizon white pages from
www.verizon.com/whitepages
For the residential directory call
1-800-888-8448. You can get either
a paper or CD-ROM version of the
white pages.
Physical or visual disabilities?
Verizon cannot charge for directory
assistance for persons with disabili-
ties that prevent them from using a
telephone directory. If a customer
has such disabilities, he/she should
contact Verizon to get this re-
striction in the customer’s record.
If the customer with disabilities
does not get a satisfactory response
from Verizon, contact the Public
Service Commission to make a
complaint at 1-800-735-0474 or
1-800-735-2258 (TTY/Voice).
Cell phone users without data plans
should check their cell phone plans
for the cost of directory assistance
calls charged by their cell phone
providers.
Stewardship matters in all
avenues of our lives.
8
Soc
ial M
inistry
Social Ministry articles continue on page 9
Getting ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas Seasons
By Sharon Carletti
WOW! How time flies. Here it is November already and time to gear
up for our busy Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. We will be
packing shoeboxes for CAN (Community Assistance Network) on
Monday December 2 in the Music Room. You may have noticed the
collection boxes in the stairwells to the second and third floors. Now
is time to bring in all those empty shoeboxes you have accumulated
over the past few months. Of course we will need things to pack in
these empty shoeboxes. We need donations of children’s hats, gloves/
mittens, small toys that will fit easily into a shoe box. We have chil-
dren from about 18 months through
14 years and need appropriate items
for each of their ages. Younger girls
typically like small dolls, crayons,
coloring books, small stuffed animals,
etc. The younger boys mostly like
small trucks, army men, balls, yoyo’s
and monsters. The older children ap-
preciate puzzle books, playing cards,
paint and craft kits, barrettes, combs,
etc. If you have children or grandchil-
dren of these ages ask them and choose
something they would like to get for
Christmas. Remember for many of
these children this small shoebox may
be the only present they unwrap for
Christmas. Let’s join together and let
them know someone cares about them.
Also, many at St. John’s may be unaware that we accept the names
of needy children in hopes of fulfilling their Christmas wishes.
Many of the children’s names are passed to us from the guidance
counselor at Carney Elementary school and others are identified
though our pastors or through letter of calls made directly to the
church from desperate parents and guardians. Last year we were able
to “adopt” 16 children. Adopting one of these children can be very re-
warding. I am asking all ministry groups at St. John’s as well as
individuals and families to consider adopting one of these children.
Being able to make a difference in one of these children’s lives really
teaches us the true meaning of Christmas. St. John’s is a very “giving”
congregation and I am looking forward to your support. Call the
church office (410-665-1234) if you might be interested in adopting a
child for Christmas!
The 2013 Salvation Army Angel Tree Program
It’s that time again! Our Salvation Army “Angel Tree” will be set up in
the narthex beginning on Sunday, November 10. We will have a total of
90 angels this year, so be sure to select yours before they are all taken.
Each angel contains the code number for a needy child, his/her clothing
size, and a suggestion for a special toy or toys that would make that
child’s eyes light up on Christmas morning. For those of you who have
never adopted an angel before, it’s easy. Just follow these steps:
1. Select and remove an angel from the tree, and record your selection
on the Master Record List by the tree. This way, if you lose or mis-
place the angel, we can give you the information that it contained.
2. Purchase one or more of the items your child has requested. (Be
sure to include batteries for any toys that need them).
3. Do not wrap the item(s)!
4. Detach the bottom section of the angel tag, containing the child’s
code number, and attach it securely to the gift/s. Take the top
(angel) section home.
5. Return the gift(s) with the tag firmly attached to church, and place
them under the tree in the narthex by Sunday, December 1. The
Salvation Army makes only one pick-up, so please do not bring
them to church after that date. You can contact the Salvation Army
directly to locate a last minute gift drop location.
6. Hang the top part of the angel tag on your Christmas tree at home to
remind you that your adopted angel will have a special Christmas
because of your generosity.
If you are unable to sponsor an angel alone, consider joining with friend
or family to sponsor one. Just remember that once you “adopt” the an-
gel, your child is counting on you to bring in your gift or gifts by the
deadline. Just think of the happiness and hope these gifts will bring to
children and their parents. We are blessed to be able to share what we
have and, in doing so, make a difference in the lives of these families.
Thank you for support this worthwhile cause!
For any questions, please call the project coordinators, Karen or Bob
Merrey at 410-665-2572.
Social Ministry News (cont.)
9
The Busy Bees are looking
for volunteers who crochet to
make lap robes for the V.A.
hospital. We have been blessed
with plenty of donations of yarn
so no need to buy any. If you can
help, yarn can be picked up any
Wednesday morning.
Thanks for your help.
Peace, Bonnie Rogers
Don't forget!
Gifts are due
by Sunday,
December 1,
at the latest!
10
Con
greg
atio
nal
Life
It's almost here...
St. John's Annual Christmas Bazaar!
Saturday, November 9
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Features will include candy, crafts, white elephant, gifts, books,
jewelry, specialty tables, and light lunch. For additional information
call Carolyn 410-686-0063.
St. John's Craft Table will showcase the very best of our own
handiwork. Stop by to pick up some memorable pieces as gifts
and mementoes.
This year's Quilt Raffle … RAVENS THEME!
This year's beautiful, queen-sized quilt (87" by 105"), handmade and donated
by the Quarter Inchers Quilt Guild, is a Ravens theme and features the purple
and black Ravens logo. Tickets are $1 each, six for $5, and 13 for $10. Tickets
may be purchased from Joan Saby, (410) 254-9604, or any of the Busy Bees.
See you there!
For our November Men-in-Mission breakfast,
we will enjoy Tall Cedars’ pancake breakfast
on November 2 at 8:00 a.m. The breakfast will
be held at the Tall Cedars Lodge on Putty Hill
Avenue at Old Harford Road. Please let Jim
Morrow, John Kraft or Dave Ermer know if
you will be attending. All men are welcome!
(If you don’t know us, just ask the Pastors to
point us out to you!).
The regular Men-in-Mission meetings continue on Tuesday evenings
from 7:00-8:00 p.m. in the Youth Room. We are currently studying the
times of Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Mark your calendars… we will have a mini-retreat on Saturday,
February 8, 2014. More information will appear in the December-
January Newsletter.
We continue to offer pick-up and drop-off services to enable folks to
attend church on Sundays. Anyone interested please call Jim Morrow
at 410-668-0823.
Jim Morrow and John Kraft delivered two full van loads of clothes to
the Karis House which is a home for women and children. It is part of
Baltimore Rescue Mission. Thanks to the congregation for your dona-
tions and have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Keith Duerling
Sunday Lunch Bunch
November 10
Razorback's Raw Bar & Grill
826 Dulaney Valley Rd., Towson
After 11 a.m. Worship
Call Lee & Laurie Krieger
(410) 882-0302
by Thurs., Nov, 7
to make a reservation.
Young at Heart
November 6 at Noon
in the Fellowship Hall
lunch and a movie.
This month we’ll be watching
Song of Bernadette.
Hope to see you there!
Wednesday Lunch Bunch
Please join us at Bowman Restaurant
9306 Harford Road in Carney on Wed., Nov. 20, at Noon.
For reservations/additional information, call Carolyn at
(410) 686-0063.
Congregational Life articles continue on page 11
St. John’s Dedicates “A Place of Grace” By Jimalee Mehan
The pastors and people of St. John’s, along
with Vicar Betty Lou and Glenn Deuchler,
gathered together in St. John’s Park on the
chilly but sunny afternoon of October 20 to
give thanks and praise to God and dedicate
our new labyrinth, A Place of Grace, to the
glory of God.
Many hands and hearts helped to create our
labyrinth as an opportunity for us to walk
with God. Labyrinths date back to ancient
times as a tool to help people center their
lives and become open to God’s presence
and voice. It is offered as a spiritual gift to
you, St. John’s disciples, and to the Parkville community. May all who
walk this labyrinth, today, tomorrow, and in the future, find what they
seek and what they need… direction and wisdom; strength, comfort
and encouragement; a deeper sense of self and their place in God’s
good creation; and an awareness of God’s presence in the beauty that
surround them.
Everyone enjoyed delicious food and wonderful fellowship immediately
following the dedication at a reception hosted by the Labyrinth Ministry
Team and catered by Barb and Ed Mueller.
Our Thanks go to the glory of God and …
Vicar Betty Lou Deuchler for her vision, enthusiasm, and hard work
in making St. John’s labyrinth a reality.
The Lutheran Home and Hospital Foundation for the financial grant
to support our project.
The people of St. John’s for donating their time, talent, and treasure,
in building & maintaining our labyrinth, and offering it as a spiritual
gift to our local community.
May God’s peace surround all who travel the journey!
11 Congregational Life articles continue on page 12
Congregational
Life (cont.)
Come One, Come All
Ye Creatures of God
Sunday,
November 3,
at 3:00 p.m.
At St. John’s Park
“A Place of Grace”
If inclement weather,
we will meet in the
Fellowship Hall.
From The Herald’s mailbox…
To the Wonderful Pastors and People of St. John’s,
Thank you so much for your love and support during the recent loss of my
father-in-law, George. We really appreciated the funeral visits, the many
comforting cards, phone calls, and yummy fudge. We are so blessed to have
such special people in our lives.
With much gratitude,
Carol Erpenstein and family
********
Dear Members of St. John's,
Thank you for all the cards, calls, and expressions of sympathy I received
after my son Russell's sudden death. It’s comforting to know so many care.
Ruth Skarda
********
Dear Pastor Maria and Danny,
Paul and I would like to express our heartfelt feeling and thank-you for
keeping us in your prayers and thoughts. It has certainly strengthened me
physically and mentally through my ups and downs. Claire and Rosalie
also deserve a great deal of thanks for their visits.
Betty and Paul Glassband
********
Dear Sisters & Brothers
Grace to you and peace from God our Father. and the Lord Jesus Christ!
Thank you for so warmly receiving me on Sunday the 6th of October. You
not only received me. but were open and receptive to the message I brought
concerning our ministry with the Community of St. Dysmas!
First of all. thank you for being the people of God in Parkville. You are a
blessing. I was welcomed before I reached the entrance to the building. I felt
both worship services to be filled with the Spirit. The folks who gathered for
worship that morning reflected the Kingdom of God! All in the community
of St. John Church touched my soul!
I also give thanks to God for your partnership with the Community of St.
Dysmas. I appreciate your prayers and the good wishes that I can extend to
the men and women who worship through that special congregation. We are
changing lives through the Good News of Jesus Christ!
I am aware that Saint John Lutheran Church has a strong history. May you
have an extra portion of the Holy Spirit in the months ahead!
In Christ,
The Reverend Gerry Rickel
Pastor of the Community of St. Dysmas
P.s. Also a hearty thanks for your continued support of the
Baltimore Seafarers Ministry.
Mutual Ministry Team Members For 2012
Karen Merrey, chair
Bob Berner Milt Dutcher
Michelle Evans Sue Addison
Mike McDonough Claire Miller
Do you have a concern about ministry at St. John’s?
The purpose of the Mutual Ministry Team is to
provide a safe place to work through such concerns.
Contact Karen Merrey, (410) 665-2572,
for more information.
12
Congregational
Life (cont.)
Don't forget!
The December & January issues of The Herald
will be combined.
Articles are due Tuesday, Nov. 13.
13
Nov
embe
r
Cel
ebra
tions
Birthdays...Birthdays...Birthdays...
Did we miss your celebration?
Please call the church office,
(410) 665-1234.
Baptismal Anniversaries
Wedding Anniversaries
11/02
Phyllis Duerling
Trevor Suznick
Charles Winebrenner, Jr.
11/04
11/05
11/06
11/08
11/09
11/10
Peter Gerber
Makenzi Streb
Amanda Buddenbahn
Kayla Sparks
Dana Heyl
Luther Holland
Karen Merrey
Robert Gray
Rachel Ermer
Linda Watts
Lila Gordon,
Bernice Graf*
Virginia Manuel
Tony Maxwell
Phyllis Williams*
Ryan Billman
Brett Francus,
Leeza Wager
11/11
11/12
11/13
11/14
11/16
Brian O'Connell
Ava Straw,
Christopher McCann,
Alice Teel
Betsy Cummings
Michelle Evans
Bonnie Rogers
Desiree Shelley
Noah Shull
Trudy Anderson
Madison Townsley,
Maureen Vogtman
11/17 Charles Bender, Jr
Ethan Guinn
Allison Smith
11/18
11/19
11/20
11/21
11/22
11/23
11/24
11/25
George Cooper, Jr.*
Stephanie Graf
Diana Greensfelder
Daniel Single
Marie Erline
Dale Pickett, Sr.
Nancy Fox
Betty Hedgespeth
Gabrielle Tindall
Larry Addison
Alma Arnold*
David M. Evans
Barbara Gray
Nicole Shindel
Ruth Derrickson*
Helene Jung*
Robert Schindler, Jr.
Louis Gerber, III
John Straw, III
11/26
11/28
Joshua Gerber
Helen Wheeler*
Jimalee Mehan
11/01 Chris & Nicole Johnson
11/04
11/09
Bob & Wilma White
Scott & Kerri Magness
Michael & Donna McDonough
11/10
11/15
Eric & Susan Neifeld
Pete & Marge Francis
11/21
11/24
Clint & Amy Wagner
Margaret & Jason Marshall
11/27 Henry & Ruth Dreier
This
month (date
unknown)
11/01
Trudy Anderson
Peggy Buckless
Rebecca Mullinix
Michael Buckless
Brennan Dunn
Zachary Hills
11/04
11/05
11/07
11/09
11/11
11/12
11/13
11/14
11/16
Linda Gerber
Carson Bittner
Abigail Schwartz-Mitchell
Grant Kellner
Molly Cummings
Heather Murawski
Steven Shull
Rayven Collinsworth
Zachary Menges
Kelly Haacke
Emerson Reese
Robert Bailey
Chad Votta, Jr.
Kurtis Sommer
11/20
11/21
11/23
11/25
11/26
11/27
11/28
11/30
Clara Westphal
Justin Sommer
Abigail Coffman
Maleyna Klinedinst
Kylie Magness
Charles Testudine
Nathan Shindel
Julianna Maxwell
Abigail McEvers
Olivia Shull
Nicholas Holland
* Homebound member
DA
TE
T
IME
L
EC
TO
R
CO
MM
UN
ION
AS
SIS
TA
NT
C
RU
CIF
ER
A
CO
LY
TE
No
v 3
8:1
5 a
.m.
11:0
0 a
.m.
Dave E
rmer
Donn
a N
ich
ols
on
K
are
n E
rmer &
Jean G
ray
Sharo
n C
arle
tti & R
ach
el H
ills
Carly
Coffm
an
K
yle
Cap
pucci
Abb
ie C
offm
an
Corin
ne B
rock &
Erin
Hym
an
No
v 1
0
8:1
5 a
.m. K
eith
Duerlin
g
Keith
& L
isa D
uerlin
g
Carly
n W
iles
Bra
nd
on C
rites
11:0
0 a
.m. T
on
y J
asin
ski
Ton
y &
Ju
dy J
asin
ski
Matth
ew
Mille
r E
mm
a N
ichols
on &
Ha
nna
h H
ousto
n
No
v 1
7
8:1
5 a
.m.
Bob B
ern
er
Barb
ara
Bern
er &
Le
e S
mith
M
ara
Wolfe
A
utu
mn W
inte
rling
11:0
0 a
.m.
Alic
e T
eel
Alic
e T
eel &
Ard
i Scarb
oro
ugh
E
tha
n S
om
mer
Matth
ew
Sche
ind
linger &
R
ya
n C
um
min
gs
No
v 2
4
8:1
5 a
.m.
Jim
Morro
w
Jim
Morro
w &
Kare
n M
erre
y
Allie
Me
yers
John M
eyers
11:0
0 a
.m.
Laurie
Krie
ger
Laurie
Krie
ger &
Am
anda R
ash
Jennife
r Ho
lland
N
ate
Gris
ez &
Sara
h S
che
indlin
ger
No
tes
Lecto
rs an
d co
mm
un
ion
assista
nts: If y
ou can
not serv
e on y
our d
esign
ated d
ate, contact
Sheila B
ender. T
he p
astors w
ill send o
ut th
e readin
gs; if y
ou d
on’t receiv
e yo
ur read
ing b
y
the T
hursd
ay b
efore y
ou
’re sched
uled
, please call th
e Church
Office. T
he sch
edule is p
osted
month
ly o
n th
e bulletin
board
in th
e Vestry
where y
ou ro
be.
Aco
lytes: If you are u
nab
le to k
eep y
our sch
eduled
time, p
lease use th
e Aco
lyte L
ist to fin
d a
replacem
ent. C
ontact R
achel H
ills with
any sch
edule ch
anges as so
on as p
ossib
le.
Coffee h
ou
r set-up vo
lun
teers: contact E
d M
ueller if y
ou are u
nab
le to serv
e on y
ou
r date.
Th
an
k y
ou
for y
ou
r min
istry o
f service!
Litu
rgic
al A
ssis
tan
t &
Serv
ice M
inis
try
Sch
ed
ule
N
ove
mb
er 2
013
Th
an
ksg
ivin
g D
ay
Service
Lecto
r
Ch
arle
s B
en
der
Co
mm
un
ion
As
sis
tan
ts
C
harle
s &
Sh
eila
Ben
der
Aco
lyte
Taylo
r Retk
ow
ski
Ush
ers
8
:15 a
.m.
Joan K
raft, B
everly
Weger, M
alc
olm
& J
anet N
eife
ld,
Eric
& S
usa
n N
eife
ld
1
1:0
0 a
.m.
Ed &
Na
ncy F
ord
, Da
ve
Evans J
r., Neil M
cC
all, B
rett E
vans
8:1
5 a
.m.
11:0
0 a
.m.
Bob B
ern
er
3, 1
0 P
asto
rs, 1
7, 2
4 L
inda
Raub
ach
A
ssis
ting
M
inis
ter
Healin
g
Min
iste
rs
N
ov
em
ber 1
7th
: Ton
y J
asin
ski, H
aze
l Num
sen,
Nov 2
T
on
y J
asin
ski
Co
ffee
Ho
ur
Set-U
p
Nov 9
T
on
y J
asin
ski
Nov 1
6
Bob T
estu
din
e
Nov 2
3
Bob T
estu
din
e
Co
ffee
Nov 3
Barb
ara
Co
nra
d, T
on
y &
Ju
dy
Jasin
ski, B
arb
ara
Mue
ller
Nov 1
0
Joan K
raft, B
everly
Weger,
Joan S
wank, H
azel N
um
sen
N
ov 1
7
Nov 2
4
Un
less
oth
erw
ise
ind
ica
ted
, ou
r S
un
da
y sc
hed
-
ule
in
clu
des
Wo
rsh
ip a
t 8
:15
an
d 1
1 a
.m.;
Su
n-
da
y S
cho
ol,
Ad
ult
Fo
rum
, a
nd Y
ou
ng
Fa
mil
ies
at
9:3
0 a
.m.;
and
Ha
nd
bel
ls p
ract
ice
at
9:4
5
a.m
.
Novem
ber 2
01
3
St. J
oh
n's
Lu
ther
an C
hu
rch
88
08
Har
ford
Ro
ad ·
Par
kvill
e, M
D 2
12
34
(41
0)
66
5-1
23
4 ·
offi
ce@
stjo
hn
spa
rkvi
lle.o
rg
ww
w.s
tjo
hn
spa
rkvi
lle.o
rg
SUN
DA
Y M
ON
DA
Y TU
ESD
AY
WED
NES
DA
Y TH
UR
SDA
Y FR
IDA
Y SA
TUR
DA
Y
1
8 a
.m. B
usy
Bee
s
C
an
dy-
Ma
kin
g
2 8
-10
a M
en In
Mis
sio
n
Bre
akfa
st (
Tall
Ced
ars)
8a-
12
He
alth
& H
eal
ing
Wo
rksh
op
SB
3
ALL
SA
INTS
DA
Y
9
:30
Co
ngr
egati
on
B
ud
get
Re
vie
w F
H
Se
e sc
hed
ule
ab
ove
4
10
a.m
. Bib
le S
tud
y S
B
5
7p
Men
in M
issi
on
YR
6
9:3
0 B
usy
Bee
s S
B
12
:00
Yo
un
g @
Hea
rt F
H
6p
-9p
Ch
oir
s M
R
6:3
0 B
ible
Stu
dy
SB
7
:00
Ste
war
dsh
ip C
E
7
Bu
ildin
g r
eser
ved
fo
r C
hri
stm
as
Ba
zaa
r se
t-u
p
8
Pre
sch
oo
l clo
sed
Bu
ildin
g r
eser
ved
fo
r C
hri
stm
as
Ba
zaa
r se
t-u
p
9
9am
- 2
pm
St.
Joh
n's
Christ
mas
Baz
aar
10
See
sch
edu
le a
bo
ve
1
2:3
0 L
un
ch B
un
ch
11
1
0a.
m. B
ible
Stu
dy
SB
12
NEW
SLET
TER
A
RTI
CLE
S D
UE
for
Dec
/Ja
n
6:4
5 T
rin
ity
Cir
cle
SB
7:0
0 M
en in
Mis
sio
n Y
R
13
9:3
0 B
usy
Bee
s S
B
6p
-9p
Ch
oir
s M
R
6:3
0 B
ible
Stu
dy
SB
14
7
:00
Exe
cuti
ve M
R
15
16
17
HEA
LIN
G S
UN
DA
Y
See
sch
edu
le a
bo
ve
18
1
0a.
m. B
ible
Stu
dy
SB
19
1
2:0
0 A
scen
sio
n C
ircl
e SB
6
:00
Ch
ick-
Fil-
A N
igh
t 7
:00
Men
in M
isis
ion
YR
7
:00
Alt
ar G
uild
MR
20
9:3
0 B
usy
Bee
s S
B
10
:00
Mo
rnin
gsid
e Se
rv.
12
:00
Lu
nch
Bu
nch
6
p-9
p C
ho
irs
MR
6
:30
Bib
le S
tud
y S
B
7:0
0 P
resc
ho
ol B
oar
d
21
7p
Co
ng
Co
un
cil
SB
22
23
24
Se
e sc
hed
ule
ab
ove
25
1
0a.
m. B
ible
Stu
dy
SB
26
7
:00
Men
in M
issi
on
YR
27
9
:30
Bu
sy B
ees
SB
7
:30
Th
anks
givi
ng
Eve
Ec
um
enic
al S
erv.
@ H
iss
28
10
:00
am W
ors
hip
Ble
sse
d T
han
ksgi
vin
g!
29
OFFIC
E C
LOSED
30
CE
CR
FH
K
M
R
P
Ch
risti
an E
d. R
oo
m
Co
nfi
rmati
on
Ro
om
Fe
llow
ship
Hal
l K
itch
en
Mu
sic
Ro
om
P
arlo
r
PD
P
M
PS
S SB
YR
Pas
tor
Dan
ny'
s o
ffice
P
asto
r M
aria
's o
ffice
P
resc
ho
ol R
oo
m
San
ctu
ary
Smit
h B
uild
ing
You
th R
oo
m