September 2, 2018

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Deuteronomy 4:6 – “Keep them and do them, for that will be your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples, who, when they hear all these statutes, will say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ ”  There is no wiser, more fulfilling life than a life lived according to the Word of God.  We should be encouraged by this when the world tempts us to think that the Word of God is harmful to us.  Our Father loves us; so all His Word is meant to bless us.

NEED A RIDE? If you are unable to drive to church, we have an option that is available.  Please speak with Pastor who has the details.  Thank you.

OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 a.m. in the Choir Room which is located on the 2^nd level (the west side).

THE ADULT BIBLE CLASS meets in the basement at 9:15 a.m.

THE SEPTEMBER FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES  will be held Friday, September 14^th at 6:30 p.m.  The movie that will be shown is “GOD’S NOT DEAD – A LIGHT IN DARKNESS”.  Join us for another great movie, good food and wonderful fellowship.  See you September 14^th at 6:30 p.m.

YOU ARE INVITED:  The members of Good Shepherd are invited to the Installation Worship Service of Reverend David Ehlers at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Lexington TODAY at 3:00 p.m.  Pastor Lueck as Circuit Visitor will preach and conduct the Installation.

LWML LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF:  It’s that time again to think about purchasing items for Health Kits.  Items needed for each kit: 1) One Bath Towel (dark color); 2) Two Bath Size Bars of Soap; 3) One Comb (Sturdy; No fine tooth comb); 4) One Metal Nail Clipper; 5) One Toothbrush.  There also is a list of items needed on the table in the narthex for you to take with you if you need.  If you have any questions please see or call Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you!

FROM THE OFFICE:  If your son or daughter is going away to college or they no longer live at home, please fill out an Information Sheet located on the table in the narthex.  As their church home, we like to stay in contact during these important years by sending them Pastor’s Sermon and the monthly Church Newsletter.  Please return the form to Sandy in the church office when completed.  We lift our young people up in prayer as their spiritual journey continues.

FROM THE OFFICE:  We received a letter (posted outside the church office) and an email from our adopted Seminary Student Joseph Schlie and his wife Kristen.  He has asked for our prayers since “they are with child” and due in March.  Joseph is in his 4^th year at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN.  Next Sunday, September 9^th, begins our 2^nd Sunday of the month door Offering for the Schlie’s.

RETREAT SPONSORED BY THE CID LLL AT CAMP CILCA:  Hear again Dr. Joel Biermann, Professor at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, who will share on the topic of “What Lutherans Really Believe About the Two Kingdoms.”  This is the topic for a retreat sponsored by the CID LLL at Camp CILCA NEXT SATURDAY, September 8, 2018.  The day will begin with Registration at 8:30 a.m.; the day will conclude around 3:00 p.m.  The cost is $10.00 per person which includes the noon meal.  Hear what Luther himself taught about these realms and their relationship.  Dr Biermann will present four sessions considering Luther’s teachings.  1) The Enduring Problem; 2) Luther’s Lively Dynamic; 3) Applying Luther to the church today; 4) Applying Luther to the Christian life, today.  Please contact Deloris Blessman by Sunday, September 2^nd,at 24204 ECR 1850N, Topeka, IL 61567; her email is: delorisblessman@yahoo.com to register or contact Herb Renken at 454-2986.

THE PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER’S ANNUAL LIFE BANQUET is Thursday, September 27^th from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.  it will be held at the Double Tree Hotel in Bloomington.  Guest is nationally known speaker Janet Parshall.  Call 454-5433, or email at: eorns@hopeforafuture.com to make a reservation.

GOLF OUTING:  The Camp CILCA Whippoorwill Golf Challenge will be Friday, September 28^th at 1:00 p.m. at Hickory Point Golf Course in Forsyth.  The cost of $60.00 covers green fees, cart, prizes, and supper.  If interested, please talk with Pastor by Sunday, September 16^th.

LUTHERAN EARLY RESPONSE TEAM (L.E.R.T.) VOLUNTEER TRAINING EVENT:  The training will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 509 South Matis Ave., Champaign, IL 61821, on Saturday, September 22, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  The sign-in begins at 8:30 a.m., Sessions begin at 9:00 a.m.  The Registration Fee is $35.00 and includes your Disaster Response Training Manual;, Disaster Response Vest; Certificate of Completion; I.D. Badge; and also includes breakfast and lunch.  Registration Forms are available on the table in the narthex.

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “The Changeless Christ For a Changing World” is the topic for next Sunday.  The Guest speaker will be Dr. Walter A. Maier.  Hear his message on The Lutheran Hour on WGN (720) at 6:00 a.m.; WJWR (104.7 FM) and WJWR (90.3 FM) both on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  Also, if you can receive Lincoln, IL radio station WLLM (1370 AM) the program is broadcast two times on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Tune in!  You can also listen to The Lutheran Hour on your personal computer at RealAudio, www.lhm.org.

FROM THE CHURCH OFFICE:  If you miss church, please be reminded that copies of the previous week’s sermon are available on the table in the narthex.  Also, the sermon will be available on our web site at www.goodshepherdblm.org.  Thank you.

PRAYER CHAIN:  If you have a prayer request please submit them by email to Mary Anne Kirchner at makirchner@yahoo.com or you may phone a Prayer Request to Mary Anne; her cell phone# is (309) 532-2582.  The Prayer Request box is on the table in the narthex for any written requests.

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August 26, 2018

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Mark 7:11 – “But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban’ (that is, given to God).”  Each one of our vocations, in the home, in the church, and in society have a claim on our resources.  The Pharisees thought that they could use the Kingdom of God as an excuse to shirk their duty to their parents. But they were wrong.  Of course, doing it the other way around would also be wrong. God has called us to be supportive of our families, our churches, and our communities each in the proper proportion.

NEED A RIDE? If you are unable to drive to church, we have an option that is available.  Please speak with Pastor who has the details.  Thank you.

OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 a.m. in the Choir Room which is located on the 2^nd level (the west side).

THE ADULT BIBLE CLASS meets in the basement at 9:15 a.m.

LWML LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF:  It’s that time again to think about purchasing items for Health Kits.  Items needed for each kit: 1) One Bath Towel (dark color); 2) Two Bath Size Bars of Soap; 3) One Comb (Sturdy; No fine tooth comb); 4) One Metal Nail Clipper; 5) One Toothbrush.  There also is a list of items needed on the table in the narthex for you to take with you if you need.  If you have any questions please see or call Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you!

FROM THE OFFICE:  If your son or daughter is going away to college or they no longer live at home, please fill out an Information Sheet located on the table in the narthex.  As their church home, we like to stay in contact during these important years by sending them Pastor’s Sermon and the monthly Church Newsletter.  Please return the form to Sandy in the church office when completed.  We lift our young people up in prayer as their spiritual journey continues.

FELLOWSHIP HOSTS:  In order to get more people involved in our Coffee/Donut Fellowship for 2018 we have two separate sign-ups: Donut Pick-up and Coffee Set-up.  We would like to encourage you to sign-up for one or the other.  You may also sign-up for both if you wish.  The sign-up is by the door by the north stairwell.

RETREAT SPONSORED BY THE CID LLL AT CAMP CILCA:  Hear again Dr. Joel Biermann, Professor at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, who will share on the topic of “What Lutherans Really Believe About the Two Kingdoms.”  This is the topic for a retreat sponsored by the CID LLL at Camp CILCA on Saturday, September 8, 2018.  The day will begin with Registration at 8:30 a.m.; the day will conclude around 3:00 p.m.  The cost is $10.00 per person which includes the noon meal.  Hear what Luther himself taught about these realms and their relationship.  Dr Biermann will present four sessions considering Luther’s teachings.  1) The Enduring Problem; 2) Luther’s Lively Dynamic; 3) Applying Luther to the church today; 4) Applying Luther to the Christian life, today.  Please contact Deloris Blessman by Sunday, September 2^nd,at 24204 ECR 1850N, Topeka, IL 61567; her email is: delorisblessman@yahoo.com to register or contact Herb Renken at 454-2986.

THE PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER’S ANNUAL LIFE BANQUET is Thursday, September 27^th from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.  it will be held at the Double Tree Hotel in Bloomington.  Guest is nationally known speaker Janet Parshall.  Call 454-5433, or email at: eorns@hopeforafuture.com to make a reservation.

GOLF OUTING:  The Camp CILCA Whippoorwill Golf Challenge will be Friday, September 28^th at 1:00 p.m. at Hickory Point Golf Course in Forsyth.  The cost of $60.00 covers green fees, cart, prizes, and supper.  If interested, please talk with Pastor by Sunday, September 16^th.

LUTHERAN EARLY RESPONSE TEAM (L.E.R.T.) VOLUNTEER TRAINING EVENT:  The training will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 509 South Mattis Ave., Champaign, IL 61821, on Saturday, September 22, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  The sign-in begins at 8:30 a.m., Sessions begin at 9:00 a.m.  The Registration Fee is $35.00 and includes your Disaster Response Training Manual;, Disaster Response Vest; Certificate of Completion; I.D. Badge; and also includes breakfast and lunch.  Registration Forms are available on the table in the narthex.

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “Eager to Preach the Good News” is the topic for next Sunday.  The Guest speaker will be Dr. Oswald Hoffmann.  Hear his message on The Lutheran Hour on WGN (720) at 6:00 a.m.; WJWR (104.7 FM) and WJWR (90.3 FM) both on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  Also, if you can receive Lincoln, IL radio station WLLM (1370 AM) the program is broadcast two times on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Tune in!  You can also listen to The Lutheran Hour on your personal computer at RealAudio, www.lhm.org.

FROM THE CHURCH OFFICE:  If you miss church, please be reminded that copies of the previous week’s sermon are available on the table in the narthex.  Also, the sermon will be available on our web site at www.goodshepherdblm.org.  Thank you.

PRAYER CHAIN:  If you have a prayer request please submit them by email to Mary Anne Kirchner at makirchner@yahoo.com or you may phone a Prayer Request to Mary Anne; her cell phone# is (309) 532-2582.  The Prayer Request box is on the table in the narthex for any written requests.

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August 19, 2018

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Ephesians 5:6-7 – “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not associate with them.”  The wrath of God is a real thing and we do well to reflect on this.  As the Small Catechism states: God threatens to punish all who break these commandments.  Therefore, we should fear His wrath and not do anything against them.  But He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep these commandments. Therefore, we should also love and trust in Him and gladly do what He commands.

NEED A RIDE? If you are unable to drive to church, we have an option that is available.  Please speak with Pastor who has the details.  Thank you.

OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 a.m. in the Choir Room which is located on the 2^nd level (the west side).

THE ADULT BIBLE CLASS meets in the basement at 9:15 a.m.

TODAY IS OUR ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC following the 10:30 Worship Service.  It will be held at Tipton Trails Park in Bloomington.  If you haven’t signed-up, please come out and enjoy the day with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

TODAY is the deadline for items to be submitted for the SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER.  Janet Evans is our Editor for the church newsletter and any announcements you want to be published in the Newsletter should be submitted to her at goodshepherdblm@frontier.com or you may call her at (309) 838-1552.

LWML LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF:  It’s that time again to think about purchasing items for Health Kits.  Items needed for each kit: 1) One Bath Towel (dark color); 2) Two Bath Size Bars of Soap; 3) One Comb (Sturdy; No fine tooth comb); 4) One Metal Nail Clipper; 5) One Toothbrush.  here also is a list of items needed on the table in the narthex for you to take with you if you need.  If you have any questions please see or call Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you!

FROM THE OFFICE:  If your son or daughter is going away to college or they no longer live at home, please fill out an Information Sheet located on the table in the narthex.  As their church home, we like to stay in contact during these important years by sending them Pastor’s Sermon and the monthly Church Newsletter.  Please return the form to Sandy in the church office when completed.  We lift our young people up in prayer as their spiritual journey continues.

FELLOWSHIP HOSTS:  In order to get more people involved in our Coffee/Donut Fellowship for 2018 we have two separate sign-ups: Donut Pick-up and Coffee Set-up.  We would like to encourage you to sign-up for one or the other.  You may also sign-up for both if you wish.  The sign-up is by the door by the north stairwell.

RETREAT SPONSORED BY THE CID LLL AT CAMP CILCA:  Hear again Dr. Joel Biermann, Professor at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, who will share on the topic of “What Lutherans Really Believe About the Two Kingdoms.”  This is the topic for a retreat sponsored by the CID LLL at Camp CILCA on Saturday, September 8, 2018.  The day will begin with Registration at 8:30 a.m.; the day will conclude around 3:00 p.m.  The cost is $10.00 per person which includes the noon meal.  Hear what Luther himself taught about these realms and their relationship.  Dr Biermann will present four sessions considering Luther’s teachings.  1) The Enduring Problem; 2) Luther’s Lively Dynamic; 3) Applying Luther to the church today; 4) Applying Luther to the Christian life, today.  Please contact Deloris Blessman by Sunday, September 2^nd,at 24204 ECR 1850N, Topeka, IL 61567; her email is: delorisblessman@yahoo.com to register or contact Herb Renken at 454-2986.

THE PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER’S ANNUAL LIFE BANQUET is Thursday, September 27^th from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.  it will be held at the Double Tree Hotel in Bloomington.  Guest is nationally known speaker Janet Parshall.  Call 454-5433, or email at: eorns@hopeforafuture.com to make a reservation.

GOLF OUTING:  The Camp CILCA Whippoorwill Golf Challenge will be Friday, Septmeber 28^th at 1:00 p.m. at Hickory Point Golf Course in Forsyth.  The cost of $60.00 covers green fees, cart, prizes, and supper.  If interested, please talk with Pastor by Sunday, September 16^th.

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “What Is Best” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from Philippians 1:9-10.  Far too many people assume there are differences in commercial products, political candidates and school systems, but these same people believe all religions are the same.  Next Sunday we join with the Apostle Paul in praying people may discern what is best when it comes to their Savior.  The speaker will be Reverend Dr. Ken Klaus.  Hear his message on The Lutheran Hour on WGN (720) at 6:00 a.m.; WJWR (104.7 FM) and WJWR (90.3 FM) both on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  Also, if you can receive Lincoln, IL radio station WLLM (1370 AM) the program is broadcast two times on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Tune in!  You can also listen to The Lutheran Hour on your personal computer at RealAudio, www.lhm.org.

FROM THE CHURCH OFFICE:  If you miss church, please be reminded that copies of the previous week’s sermon are available on the table in the narthex.  Also, the sermon will be available on our web site at www.goodshepherdblm.org.  Thank you.

PRAYER CHAIN:  If you have a prayer request please submit them by email to Mary Anne Kirchner at makirchner@yahoo.com or you may phone a Prayer Request to Mary Anne; her cell phone# is (309) 532-2582.  The Prayer Request box is on the table in the narthex for any written requests.

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August 12, 2018

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Ephesians 4:28 – “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.”  God gives us honest work to do so that we can be a blessing to others.  That’s how so many of God’s blessings go: He gives to us so that we in turn can be a blessing.  He graciously calls us into the midst of His own work in the world.

NEED A RIDE? If you are unable to drive to church, we have an option that is available.  Please speak with Pastor who has the details.  Thank you.

OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 a.m. in the Choir Room which is located on the 2^nd level (the west side).

THE ADULT BIBLE CLASS meets in the basement at 9:15 a.m.

FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES is this coming Friday, August 17^th at 6:30 p.m.  “GOD’S NOT DEAD 2” is the movie that will be shown.  “When high school history teacher, Grace Wesley (Melissa Joan Hart) is asked a question about Jesus in class, her reasoned response lands her in deep trouble.  The ensuing epic court case could expel God from the classroom – and the public square – once and for all!  “GOD’S NOT DEAD 2″ is a powerful call to action: “WHERE WILL YOU STAND? Join us for a great entertaining movie, good food and wonderful fellowship.  See you Friday August 17^th!

NEXT SUNDAY:  Our Annual Church Picnic is NEXT SUNDAY, August 19^th, following the 10:30 Worship Service.  It will be held at Tipton Trails Park in Bloomington.  There are two sign-ups on the table in the narthex.  One is the number that will be attending and the other is for main dishes, side dishes and desserts.  The church provides all the other items.

NEXT SUNDAY is the deadline for items to be submitted for the SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER.  Janet Evans is our Editor for the church newsletter and any announcements you want to be published in the Newsletter should be submitted to her at goodshepherdblm@frontier.com or you may call her at (309) 838-1552.

LWML LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF:  It’s that time again to think about purchasing items for Health Kits.  Items needed for each kit: 1) One Bath Towel (dark color); 2) Two Bath Size Bars of Soap; 3) One Comb (Sturdy; No fine tooth comb); 4) One Metal Nail Clipper; 5) One Toothbrush.  here also is a list of items needed on the table in the narthex for you to take with you if you need.  If you have any questions please see or call Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you!

FROM THE OFFICE:  If your son or daughter is going away to college or they no longer live at home, please fill out an Information Sheet located on the table in the narthex.  As their church home, we like to stay in contact during these important years by sending them Pastor’s Sermon and the monthly Church Newsletter.  Please return the form to Sandy in the church office when completed.  We lift our young people up in prayer as their spiritual journey continues.

RETREAT SPONSORED BY THE CID LLL AT CAMP CILCA:  Hear again Dr. Joel Biermann, Professor at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, who will share on the topic of “What Lutherans Really Believe About the Two Kingdoms.”  This is the topic for a retreat sponsored by the CID LLL at Camp CILCA on Saturday, September 8, 2018.  The day will begin with Registration at 8:30 a.m.; the day will conclude around 3:00 p.m.  The cost is $10.00 per person which includes the noon meal.  Hear what Luther himself taught about these realms and their relationship.  Dr Biermann will present four sessions considering Luther’s teachings.  1) The Enduring Problem; 2) Luther’s Lively Dynamic; 3) Applying Luther to the church today; 4) Applying Luther to the Christian life, today.  Please contact Deloris Blessman by Sunday, September 2^nd,at 24204 ECR 1850N, Topeka, IL 62665; her email is: delorisblessman@yahoo.com to register or contact Herb Renken at 454-2986.

FELLOWSHIP HOSTS:  In order to get more people involved in our Coffee/Donut Fellowship for 2018 we have two separate sign-ups: Donut Pick-up and Coffee Set-up.  We would like to encourage you to sign-up for one or the other.  You may also sign-up for both if you wish.  The sign-up is by the door by the north stairwell.

PORTALS OF PRAYER:   The July – September 2018 Portals of Prayer are available on the book rack located in the narthex. 

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “In Your Light We See Light” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from Psalm 36.  Meditation is time to think, and Christian meditation thinks about God in the light of Jesus Christ.  It is “a lamp to our feet and a light to our path”.  The speaker will be Reverend Dr. Dale A. Meyer.  Hear his message on The Lutheran Hour on WGN (720) at 6:00 a.m.; WJWR (104.7 FM) and WJWR (90.3 FM) both on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  Also, if you can receive Lincoln, IL radio station WLLM (1370 AM) the program is broadcast two times on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Tune in!  You can also listen to The Lutheran Hour on your personal computer at RealAudio, www.lhm.org.

PRAYER CHAIN:  If you have a prayer request please submit them by email to Mary Anne Kirchner at makirchner@yahoo.com or you may phone a Prayer Request to Mary Anne; her cell phone# is (309) 532-2582.  The Prayer Request box is on the table in the narthex for any written requests.

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August 5, 2018

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Ephesians 4:1 – “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you were called.”  The callings we have from the Lord are our “vocations.”  Here Paul talks about our vocation as Christian.  We are called to be His people and to reflect His love, generosity, and peace within the Church.

NEED A RIDE? If you are unable to drive to church, we have an option that is available.  Please speak with Pastor who has the details.  Thank you.

OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 a.m. in the Choir Room which is located on the 2^nd level (the west side).

THE ADULT BIBLE CLASS meets in the basement at 9:15 a.m.

FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES will be held FRIDAY, AUGUST 17^th at 6:30 p.m.  “GOD’S NOT DEAD 2” is the movie that will be shown.  “When high school history teacher, Grace Wesley (Melissa Joan Hart) is asked a question about Jesus in class, her reasoned response lands her in deep trouble.  The ensuing epic court case could expel God from the classroom – and the public square – once and for all!  “GOD’S NOT DEAD 2″ is a powerful call to action: “WHERE WILL YOU STAND? Join us for a great entertaining movie, good food and wonderful fellowship.  See you Friday August 17^th!

THE ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC is scheduled for Sunday, August 19^th, following the 10:30 Worship Service.  It will be held at Tipton Trails Park in Bloomington.  There are two sign-ups on the table in the narthex.  One is the number that will be attending and the other is for main dishes, side dishes and desserts.  The church provides all the other items.

LWML LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF:  It’s that time again to think about purchasing items for Health Kits.  Items needed for each kit: 1) One Bath Towel (dark color); 2) Two Bath Size Bars of Soap; 3) One Comb (Sturdy; No fine tooth comb); 4) One Metal Nail Clipper; 5) One Toothbrush.  here also is a list of items needed on the table in the narthex for you to take with you if you need.  If you have any questions please see or call Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you!

FROM THE OFFICE:  If your son or daughter is going away to college or they no longer live at home, please fill out an Information Sheet located on the table in the narthex.  As their church home, we like to stay in contact during these important years by sending them Pastor’s Sermon and the monthly Church Newsletter.  Please return the form to Sandy in the church office when completed.  We lift our young people up in prayer as their spiritual journey continues.

FELLOWSHIP HOSTS:  In order to get more people involved in our Coffee/Donut Fellowship for 2018 we have two separate sign-ups: Donut Pick-up and Coffee Set-up.  We would like to encourage you to sign-up for one or the other.  You may also sign-up for both if you wish.  The sign-up is by the door by the north stairwell.

PORTALS OF PRAYER:   The July – September 2018 Portals of Prayer are available on the book rack located in the narthex.

YOU ARE INVITED:  Christ Lutheran Church, 311 N Hershey in Normal is having a “Garage Sale/Bake Sale” this coming Friday, August 10^th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; and Saturday, August 11^th from 8:00 a.m. to noon.  It will be held in the Activity Building.  Proceeds to benefit Seminary Students, Missions and Projects of the LWML (Ladies Guild) of Christ Lutheran Church.

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “Pigeonholed” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from John 6:42.  Just when you think you are getting to know Jesus, He says something which can confuse.  Today the world remains confused about God’s Son, our Savior.  That’s because Jesus refuses to be pigeonholed by the world’s desires or expectations.  He’s God’s Son, who has come to save humankind.  Anything else, or different than this, is simply unacceptable. The speaker will be Reverend Dr. Ken Klaus.  Hear his message on The Lutheran Hour on WGN (720) at 6:00 a.m.; WJWR (104.7 FM) and WJWR (90.3 FM) both on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  Also, if you can receive Lincoln, IL radio station WLLM (1370 AM) the program is broadcast two times on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Tune in!  You can also listen to The Lutheran Hour on your personal computer at RealAudio, www.lhm.org.

FROM THE CHURCH OFFICE:  If you miss church, please be reminded that copies of the previous week’s sermon are available on the table in the narthex.  Also, the sermon will be available on our web site at www.goodshepherdblm.org.  Thank you.

PRAYER CHAIN:  If you have a prayer request please submit them by email to Mary Anne Kirchner at makirchner@yahoo.com or you may phone a Prayer Request to Mary Anne; her cell phone# is (309) 532-2582.  The Prayer Request box is on the table in the narthex for any written requests.

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July 29, 2018

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Ephesians 3:20 – “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think. . .”  We often shortchange God by failing to remember what Paul says here: God can do far more than what we can think or ask.  His power, and His love, are without bound and without measure.  So why do we fear to follow His Word?  Isn’t it in fact fear that keeps us back from a life of joyous generosity and open-handedness?  But God is able to do far more abundantly!  So let us not be afraid to take the Lord at his Word and live according to it.

NEED A RIDE? If you are unable to drive to church, we have an option that is available.  Please speak with Pastor who has the details.  Thank you.

OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL meets at 9:15 a.m. in the Choir Room which is located on the 2^nd level (the west side).

THE ADULT BIBLE CLASS meets in the basement at 9:15 a.m.

TODAY:  Good Shepherd’s Group Outing to the Normal Cornbelters Baseball Game is this afternoon.  Game time is 6:05 p.m.  Details are available on the table in the narthex.  Please contact Randy Reinhardt at (309) 826-0448 or randyreinhardt1@gmail.com if you did not previously buy tickets and would like to go.

CORNBELTERS TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE:  Linda Lange has three CornBelters Tickets available for July 29^th, when our church group is going.  We can’t use the tickets due to a prior engagement.  If interested please contact Linda at (309) 339-9930.

FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES will be held FRIDAY, AUGUST 17^th at 6:30 p.m.  “GOD’S NOT DEAD 2” is the movie that will be shown.  “When high school history teacher, Grace Wesley (Melissa Joan Hart) is asked a question about Jesus in class, her reasoned response lands her in deep trouble.  The ensuing epic court case could expel God from the classroom – and the public square – once and for all!  “GOD’S NOT DEAD 2″ is a powerful call to action: “WHERE WILL YOU STAND? Join us for a great entertaining movie, good food and wonderful fellowship.  See you Friday August 17^th!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR:  The date for our Annual Church Picnic has been set!  It will be held on Sunday, August 19^th.  More information to follow.

FELLOWSHIP HOSTS:  In order to get more people involved in our Coffee/Donut Fellowship for 2018 we have two separate sign-ups: Donut Pick-up and Coffee Set-up.  We would like to encourage you to sign-up for one or the other.  You may also sign-up for both if you wish.  The sign-up is by the door by the north stairwell.

PORTALS OF PRAYER:   The July – September 2018 Portals of Prayer are available on the book rack located in the narthex.

YOU ARE INVITED:  Christ Lutheran Church, 311 N Hershey in Normal is having a “Garage Sale/Bake Sale” on Friday, August 10^th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; and August 11^th from 8:00 a.m. to noon.  It will be held in the Activity Building.  Proceeds to benefit Seminary Students, Missions and Projects of the LWML (Ladies Guild) of Christ Lutheran Church.

WELCOMING NEW INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS:  You can make a big impact in the lives of International Students and they will make a big impact in your life.  We are looking for Christian individuals and families to welcome new International Students.  Students will begin arriving during the week of August 6^th.  New Student Orientation will begin August 14^th.  You could help in any of the following ways:  1) Hosting a student in your home for a few days when they first arrive.  2) Providing  transportation upon arrival in Bloomington/Normal to their residence hall or apartment.  If you are interested and would like more information, please contact John and Linda Berger, serving with International Students, Inc., at (309) 664-0377 or jberger@isionline.org.  Training is required for 1^st time participants.  Training and resource information will be provided on several different dates (you only need attend one).

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “And the Pursuit of Happiness” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from Exodus 16:2-15; John 6:22-35.  When the main goal in life is your happiness, you’ve turned in on yourself and away from others, especially God.  Turn from yourself to Jesus and you’ll know a peace that surpasses all understanding and that is the basis for true lasting happiness. The speaker will be Reverend Dale A. Meyer.  Hear his message on The Lutheran Hour on WGN (720) at 6:00 a.m.; WJWR (104.7 FM) and WJWR (90.3 FM) both on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  Also, if you can receive Lincoln, IL radio station WLLM (1370 AM) the program is broadcast two times on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Tune in!  You can also listen to The Lutheran Hour on your personal computer at RealAudio, www.lhm.org.

FROM THE CHURCH OFFICE:  If you miss church, please be reminded that copies of the previous week’s sermon are available on the table in the narthex.  Also, the sermon will be available on our web site at www.goodshepherdblm.org.  Thank you.

PRAYER CHAIN:  If you have a prayer request please submit them by email to Mary Anne Kirchner at makirchner@yahoo.com or you may phone a Prayer Request to Mary Anne; her cell phone# is (309) 532-2582.  The Prayer Request box is on the table in the narthex for any written requests.

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