September 3, 2017

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Matthew 16:26 – “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life?”  He who dies with the most toys….is dead.  But the one who trusts in the Lord, even though he dies, yet shall he live.  We live out our trust in the Lord by faithfully fulfilling the roles God has given us to play in home, church, and society as loving, generous people.  Those who don’t know the Lord are afraid to be generous because they think that what they give away is lost to them.  But we who know the Lord know that the things of this world become true blessings when they are used for God’s Kingdom.

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. As we celebrate the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation we continue studies on that time period.  We are studying “A Man Named Martin”, a video-based study on the reformer Martin Luther.

TODAY:  In conjunction with our brothers and sisters in the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) we will have a Special Door Offering today to support those affected by Hurricane Harvey.  Our gifts will go to the Synod as they work in that area.  I know we are all praying and we ask the Lord to guide.

OUR RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE is now scheduled for Friday, September 15^th from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.  We are going to have a football tailgate theme – “Make The Right Play. Give Blood”.  The easiest way to sign-up is to go to redcrossblood.org, put in our zip code (61704) and follow the prompts.  We also have a sign-up at church and will have materials to share with your workplace and friends.

THE MOVIE, “Martin Luther: The Idea That Changed the World” which many of us enjoyed in the theater is now coming to television.  It will be shown on PBS on Tuesday, Sept. 12^th at 7:00 p.m.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT:  Our next movie night will be Friday, SEPTEMBER 15^th!  The feature presentation will be the hilarious cowboy comedy “SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SHERIFF”.  The movie is open to all members of Good Shepherd and the community.  Invite your neighbors to come and enjoy the movie, food and fellowship!  Come early and give blood at the Red Cross Blood Drive and stay for the movie.  On his way to Australia, frontier opportunist, Jason McCullough (Garner) stumbles into a small gold-rush town and decides to earn a little extra pocket money by accepting a temporary assignment as their sheriff.  Happily applying himself to his new position, McCullough manages to turn the town derelict (Elam) into his deputy, outsmart the dreaded Danby clan (led by Brennan in a hilarious comic performance), and fend off the lusty advances of the mayor’s daughter (Hackett) – all without breaking a sweat or dirtying his shiny black boots!  Take a break from the hustle and bustle, come and relax and enjoy a funny Cowboy Comedy Movie!

FROM THE OFFICE:  We received a letter from former Seminarian and now Pastor Jeremy Hercamp and family.  It updates his first call into the ministry and the birth of their second child.  It is posted on the bulletin board outside the church office.

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF SCHOOL KITS:  It’s that time again for the LWML’s Project Lutheran World Relief School Kits.  We need your help filling the School Kits with the following items for each School Bag:  4 Notebooks; 1 Ruler; 1 Pencil Sharpener; 1 Scissor; 5 Pencils; 5 Pens; 1 Box of Crayons; 1 Eraser; 1 Book Bag.  If you have any questions, please see or contact Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you for your help! 

REFORMATION REVERATIONS: THE LASTING IMPACT OF MARTIN LUTHER’S REFORMS is the topic of the CID LLL Annual Retreat.  The speaker is Dr. Erik Herrmann who is Director of the Center for Reformation Research, Associate Professor of Historical Theology, and Chairman of the Department of Historical Theology.  He was also one of the Commentators for the movie “Luther: The Idea That Changed the World”.  It will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at Camp CILCA, Cantrall, IL in the Christian Growth Center starting at 9:00 a.m.  Registration cost is $20.00 which includes lunch.  You will need to register by TOMORROW, Monday, September 4^th by sending your information to Deloris Blessman, 24204 CR 1850N, Topeka, IL 61567 or email her at: delorisblessman@yahoo.com or call her at (309) 361-1461.  Dr. Erik Herrmann will examine the long term effects of Luther’s influence in three areas: religion, politics and society.  Don’t miss this institute!

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 27, 2017

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Matthew 16:27: “For the Son of Man is going to come with His angels in the glory of His Father, and then He will repay each person according to what he has done.”  St Paul talks about rewards on the Last Day in I Cor. 3, and Jesus says more about this “repaying” in Matt 19:27-30.  Bottom line: your good works can’t buy you heaven, but in Christ your good works do matter, they’re pleasing your Heavenly Father, and they will be rewarded.  In other words: your sacrifices for the Lord’s Kingdom are not in vain, they are not unnoticed by your Father.  This should encourage you in your faithfulness.

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. As we celebrate the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation we continue studies on that time period.  We are studying “A Man Named Martin”, a video-based study on the reformer Martin Luther.

TODAY we will have another collection for our New Church Sign which will be placed on the south entrance by the trail.

TODAY is Good Shepherd’s Annual Church Picnic at Tipton Trails Park in Bloomington.  The eating and festivities will commence around noon.  If you need directions, please speak with Pastor.  Lord Bless our day together.

OUR RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE is now scheduled for Friday, September 15^th from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.  We are going to have a football tailgate theme – “Make The Right Play. Give Blood”.  The easiest way to sign-up is to go to redcrossblood.org, put in our zip code (61704) and follow the prompts.  We also have a sign-up at church and will have materials to share with your workplace and friends.

THE MOVIE, “Martin Luther: The Idea That Changed the World” which many of us enjoyed in the theater is now coming to television.  It will be shown on PBS on Tuesday, Sept. 12^th at 7:00 p.m.

FROM THE OFFICE:  We received a letter from former Seminarian and now Pastor Jeremy Hercamp and family.  It updates his first call into the ministry and the birth of their second child.  It is posted on the bulletin board outside the church office.

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF SCHOOL KITS:  It’s that time again for the LWML’s Project Lutheran World Relief School Kits.  We need your help filling the School Kits with the following items for each School Bag:  4 Notebooks; 1 Ruler; 1 Pencil Sharpener; 1 Scissor; 5 Pencils; 5 Pens; 1 Box of Crayons; 1 Eraser; 1 Book Bag.  If you have any questions, please see or contact Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you for your help!

100^th ANNIVERSARY OF LLL/LUTHERAN HOUR MINISTRIES CHURCH SERVICE: Yes, the Lutheran Layman’s League and Lutheran Hour Ministries is 100 years old.  We will celebrate this Anniversary with a Church Service NEXT SUNDAY, September 3, 2017 at Camp CILCA, Cantrall, IL in the indoor Chapel at 10:30 a.m.  Reverend Ken Schurb will be the speaker and the Offering will go to Camp CILCA Outdoor Ministries.  Please stay after the service for Camp CILCA’s Annual Chicken Dinner and Auction.

REFORMATION REVERATIONS: THE LASTING IMPACT OF MARTIN LUTHER’S REFORMS is the topic of the CID LLL Annual Retreat.  The speaker is Dr. Erik Herrmann who is Director of the Center for Reformation Research, Associate Professor of Historical Theology, and Chairman of the Department of Historical Theology.  He was also one of the Commentators for the movie “Luther: The Idea That Changed the World”.  It will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at Camp CILCA, Cantrall, IL in the Christian Growth Center starting at 9:00 a.m.  Registration cost is $20.00 which includes lunch.  You will need to register by Monday, September 4^th by sending your information to Deloris Blessman, 24204 CR 1850N, Topeka, IL 61567 or email her at: delorisblessman@yahoo.com or call her at (309) 361-1461.  Dr. Erik Herrmann will examine the long term effects of Luther’s influence in three areas: religion, politics and society.  Don’t miss this institute!

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “Finding Life In Jesus’ Steps” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from Matthew 16:24-25.  Tape joy in the gift of being a follower of Christ who is willing to take His lead and be ordered by His steps.  Reverend Dr. Gregory Seltz is the speaker.  Hear this Sunday’s 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 20, 2017

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Matthew 15:27:  “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” These are the words of faith, for faith means receiving what God gives.  And God has given us so much more than just the crumbs that fall from the table – He has given us life, salvation, body and soul, eyes and ears, possessions and income.  That’s where our stewardship starts: with faith in the God who is the greatest Giver.

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. As we celebrate the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation we continue studies on that time period.  We are studying “A Man Named Martin”, a video-based study on the reformer Martin Luther.

TODAY is the deadline for items to be submitted for the SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER.  Mandy Kluender is our Editor for the church newsletter and any announcements you want to be published in the Newsletter should be submitted to her at mgkluender@hotmail.com or you may call her at (309) 838-9868.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES:  There is a special Board of Trustees Meeting this coming Wednesday, August 23^rd, at 6:30 p.m. to prepare a preliminary Budget for 2018.

NEXT SUNDAY, August 27^th, we will have another collection for our New Church Sign which will be placed on the south entrance by the trail.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC is NEXT SUNDAY, August 27^th at Tipton Trails Park in Bloomington.  Start time at approximately 12:00 p.m.  Please sign-up on the sheet in the narthex and on another sheet to let the Board know what you are bringing.  Thank you.

OUR RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE is now scheduled for Friday, September 15^th from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.  We are going to have a football tailgate theme – “Make The Right Play. Give Blood”.  The easiest way to sign-up is to go to redcrossblood.org, put in our zip code (61704) and follow the prompts.  We also have a sign-up at church and will have materials to share with your workplace and friends.

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF SCHOOL KITS:  It’s that time again for the LWML’s Project Lutheran World Relief School Kits.  We need your help filling the School Kits with the following items for each School Bag:  4 Notebooks; 1 Ruler; 1 Pencil Sharpener; 1 Scissor; 5 Pencils; 5 Pens; 1 Box of Crayons; 1 Eraser; 1 Book Bag.  If you have any questions, please see or contact Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you for your help!

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.

100^th ANNIVERSARY OF LLL/LUTHERAN HOUR MINISTRIES CHURCH SERVICE: Yes, the Lutheran Layman’s League and Lutheran Hour Ministries is 100 years old.  We will celebrate this anniversary with a Church Service on Sunday, September 3, 2017 at Camp CILCA, Cantrall, IL in the indoor Chapel at 10:30 a.m.  Reverend Ken Schurb will be the speaker and the Offering will go to Camp CILCA Outdoor Ministries.  Please stay after the service for Camp CILCA’s Annual Chicken Dinner and Auction.

REFORMATION REVERATIONS: THE LASTING IMPACT OF MARTIN LUTHER’S REFORMS is the topic of the CID LLL Annual Retreat.  The speaker is Dr. Erik Herrmann who is Director of the Center for Reformation Research, Associate Professor of Historical Theology, and Chairman of the Department of Historical Theology.  He was also one of the Commentators for the movie “Luther: The Idea That Changed the World”.  It will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at Camp CILCA, Cantrall, IL in the Christian Growth Center starting at 9:00 a.m.  Registration cost is $20.00 which includes lunch.  You will need to register by Monday, September 4^th by sending your information to Deloris Blessman, 24204 CR 1850N, Topeka, IL 61567 or email her at: delorisblessman@yahoo.com or call her at (309) 361-1461.  Dr. Erik Herrmann will examine the long term effects of Luther’s influence in three areas: religion, politics and society.  Don’t miss this institute!

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 13, 2017

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Matthew 14:30: “But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.”  The world, really, is a scary place – natural disasters, disease, terrorism, and a hundred other things.  But where do we place our hope, our trust – our vision?  Where do we look for aid and comfort?  When Peter’s eyes were on the Lord, he had confidence.  When he turned to look at his problems and took his eyes off the Lord, he fell apart.  Sometimes God’s call to support the work of His Church with our offerings makes us nervous.  But put your eyes back on your Lord, trust Him, follow His Word, and all, really, will be well.

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. As we celebrate the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation we continue studies on that time period.  We are studying “A Man Named Martin”, a video-based study on the reformer Martin Luther.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT:  “THE MUSIC MAN”, the joyful film of the 1,375-performance Broadway smash, remains an irresistible skyburst of Americana.  Robert Preston recreates his Tony-winning Broadway triumph as con artist, Harold Hill, arriving in River City, Iowa, to form a boys band, much to the disapproval…and later delight of town librarian Marian Paroo (Academy Award winner Shirley Jones).  Buddy Hackett, Hermione Gingold, Paul Ford and 7-year old Ron Howard co-star.  Meredith Willson’s sassy, brassy score, is orchestrated to Oscar-winning effect by Ray Heindorf.  SHEER ENTERTAINMENT.  HOLLYWOOD’S SHOW MAGIC AT ITS BEST.   Join us for a fun evening with a great movie, good food and fellowship this coming Friday, August 18^th at 6:30pm.

NEXT SUNDAY is the deadline for items to be submitted for the SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER.  Mandy Kluender is our Editor for the church newsletter and any announcements you want to be published in the Newsletter should be submitted to her at mgkluender@hotmail.com or you may call her at (309) 838-9868.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC is Sunday, August 27^th at Tipton Trails Park in Bloomington.  Start time at approximately 12:00 p.m.  Please sign-up on the sheet in the narthex and on another sheet to let the Board know what you are bringing.  Thank you.

THE BLOOD DRIVE for Saturday, September 2^nd, had to be cancelled by the American Red Cross.  We are looking to reschedule a date in the next month or two.

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF SCHOOL KITS:  It’s that time again for the LWML’s Project Lutheran World Relief School Kits.  We need your help filling the School Kits with the following items for each School Bag:  4 Notebooks; 1 Ruler; 1 Pencil Sharpener; 1 Scissor; 5 Pencils; 5 Pens; 1 Box of Crayons; 1 Eraser; 1 Book Bag.  If you have any questions, please see or contact Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you for your help!

DID YOU NOTICE SOMETHING NEW IN THE NORTH STAIRWELL?  The Banner hanging in the north stairwell is a gift from the Don Gronert Family.  His daughter Marsha made it while in college.  It previously hung in the Gronert’s home entry.

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.

100^th ANNIVERSARY OF LLL/LUTHERAN HOUR MINISTRIES CHURCH SERVICE: Yes, the Lutheran Layman’s League and Lutheran Hour Ministries is 100 years old.  We will celebrate this anniversary with a Church Service on Sunday, September 3, 2017 at Camp CILCA, Cantrall, IL in the indoor Chapel at 10:30 a.m.  Reverend Ken Schurb will be the speaker and the Offering will go to Camp CILCA Outdoor Ministries.  Please stay after the service for Camp CILCA’s Annual Chicken Dinner and Auction.

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “God’s Dog” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from Matthew 15:21-28.  Was Jesus being politically correct—or worse—when He compared a Canaanite woman to a canine?  Guest speaker is Reverend Dr. Ken Klaus.  Hear this Sunday’s 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 6, 2017

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Matthew 14:17-18:  “They said to Him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” {18} And He said, “Bring them here to Me.””  When the disciples held on to the five loaves and two fish – that’s exactly what they had.  But when they handed them over to the Lord, the multitudes are fed.  Apart from Jesus all we do and all we have is nothing – but in Jesus all we do and have is blessed to be used by the Lord for His gracious work.

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.  In conjunction with the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation we are studying about that time period with “The Word Endures: Lessons From the Lives of Powerful Politicians”.

FROM THE OFFICE:  After taking a break in July, Boards will be meeting in August.  This coming Tuesday, August 8^th, Evangelism/Stewardship meets at 6:00 p.m. followed by the Elders convening at 7:00 p.m.

QUILTING:  We will start meeting again for Quilt Sewing in August.  Due to the McLean County Fair being held the first week in August; we will meet this coming Thursday, August 10^th from 1-4:00 p.m.  Any questions please see or call Luanne Huth at (309) 829-6897.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT:  “THE MUSIC MAN”, the joyful film of the 1,375-performance Broadway smash, remains an irresistible skyburst of Americana.  Robert Preston recreates his Tony-winning Broadway triumph as con artist, Harold Hill, arriving in River City, Iowa, to form a boys band, much to the disapproval…and later delight of town librarian Marian Paroo (Academy Award winner Shirley Jones).  Buddy Hackett, Hermione Gingold, Paul Ford and 7-year old Ron Howard co-star.  Meredith Willson’s sassy, brassy score, is orchestrated to Oscar-winning effect by Ray Heindorf.  Sheer Entertainment.  Hollywood’s Show Magic at Its Best.  Join us for a fun evening with a great movie, good food and fellowship on Friday, August 18 at 6:30 pm.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC is Sunday, August 27^th at Tipton Trails Park in Bloomington.  Start time at approximately 12:00 p.m.  Please sign-up on the sheet in the narthex and on another sheet to let the Board know what you are bringing.  Thank you.

GOOD SHEPHERD PARTNERING WITH THE AMERICAN RED CROSS is giving you a chance to “give the gift of life”.  This Blood Drive will take place in the basement of the church on Saturday, September 2^nd from 8:00 a.m. to Noon.  The finest chefs that Good Shepherd has will be serving breakfast.  Please join your church and community in this time of food, fellowship and phlebotomy.

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF SCHOOL KITS:  It’s that time again for the LWML’s Project Lutheran World Relief School Kits.  We need your help filling the School Kits with the following items for each School Bag:  4 Notebooks; 1 Ruler; 1 Pencil Sharpener; 1 Scissor; 5 Pencils; 5 Pens; 1 Box of Crayons; 1 Eraser; 1 Book Bag.  If you have any questions, please see or contact Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you for your help!

DID YOU NOTICE SOMETHING NEW IN THE NORTH STAIRWELL?  The Banner hanging in the north stairwell is a gift from the Don Gronert Family.  His daughter Marsha made it while in college.  It previously hung in the Gronert’s home entry.

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.

LUTHERAN HOUR MINISTRIES:  Reminder: Don’t forget to stop by the Lutheran Hour Ministries Tent at the Illinois State Fair.  This also is sponsored by the Central Illinois District Lutheran Laymen’s League.  We give away Bibles, LHM Booklets on all topics, Children’s Bible Story Books; Coloring Books and free ice water.  There is also a free craft to make.  If you would like to volunteer, please call Deloris Blessman at (309) 361-1461 or email her at: delorisblessman@yahoo.com.  The State Fair starts this coming Friday, August 11^th – Sunday, August 20^th.

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “Looking For a Good Speaker” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from Matthew 6:9.  “Archives August” – What do the words “Our Father” teach us about our relationship with God and with each other?  Guest speaker is Dr. Dale A. Meyer.  Hear this Sunday’s 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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July 30, 2017

THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP:  Matthew 13:45-46: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”  Indeed, Jesus redeemed us, purchased us back from sin and death, with all that He had.  We belong to Him now. And this is foundation for our own generosity: imitating the outsized generosity of Jesus.

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.  In conjunction with the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation we are studying about that time period with “The Word Endures: Lessons From the Lives of Powerful Politicians”.

NEW CHURCH SIGN:  In celebration of the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation and with inspiration from Martin Luther, Good Shepherd will be “posting” a new church sign on the south side near the lower parking lot.  Parts will be interchangeable and can be used for Outreach to our community.  Congregation involvement will include creative ideas for the signage and gifts toward the purchase.  The second collection of monies is TODAY, Sunday, July 30, 2017.  We will then collect on the last Sunday of each month through September with a final collection scheduled for some time in October.  If you do not have a jar and want to participate you may pick one up in the narthex.

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF SCHOOL KITS:  It’s that time again for the LWML’s Project Lutheran World Relief School Kits.  We need your help filling the School Kits with the following items for each School Bag:  4 Notebooks; 1 Ruler; 1 Pencil Sharpener; 1 Scissor; 5 Pencils; 5 Pens; 1 Box of Crayons; 1 Eraser; 1 Book Bag.  If you have any questions, please see or contact Joann Hart (309) 310-9205.  Thank you for your help!

QUILTING:  We will start meeting again for Quilt Sewing in August.  Due to the McLean County Fair being held the first week in August; we will meet on Thursday, August 10^th from 1-4:00 p.m.  Any questions please see or call Luanne Huth at (309) 829-6897.

CAN YOU HELP?  We have a sign-up on the table in the narthex for Summer Sunday School.  The dates and lessons are listed.  We would like to have someone covering and to give Sarah Lange a break for the summer.  Once you sign-up, please speak with Sarah who will have the lesson for you.  Thank you for helping in this way.

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:  The sign-up for help with coffee/doughnuts is posted on the wall by the north stairwell.  We need an individual/family to sign-up each week to pick up the donuts and make the coffee.  If no one is signed up by Friday of each week, the order will be cancelled.  We thank everybody who continues to help with this part of our church fellowship.

LUTHERAN HOUR MINISTRIES:  Reminder: Don’t forget to stop by the Lutheran Hour Ministries Tent at the Illinois State Fair.  This also is sponsored by the Central Illinois District Lutheran Laymen’s League.  We give away Bibles, LHM Booklets on all topics, Children’s Bible Story Books; Coloring Books and free ice water.  There is also a free craft to make.  If you would like to volunteer, please call Deloris Blessman at (309) 361-1461 or email her at: delorisblessman@yahoo.com.  The State Fair starts Friday, August 11^th – Sunday, August 20^th.

THE LUTHERAN HOUR:  “On Thee the High and Lowly” is the topic for next Sunday.  The sermon text will be from Exodus 20:10.  It’s “Archives August” and we present a classic message from former speaker, Dr. Dale Meyer.  Hear this Sunday’s 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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