June Zion Life - Zion Lutheran Church
Transcription
June Zion Life - Zion Lutheran Church
“Sing to the Lord A New Song!” The arrival of the month of June signifies an ending to another rehearsal season for Zion’s musical ensembles. A summer break from the regular routine of weekly practices is well-deserved for our volunteer musicians. We give thanks and praise to God for those members of our church family who contribute to the beauty and meaning of our worship. As a way of acknowledging them, we are listing the members of each musical group on the insert in this newsletter. What can I do? • Give these people a word of encouragement and thanks for what they do. They participate because they want to praise God, but God blesses them through kind words from you. • Consider joining one of Zion’s choirs, handbell choirs, or orchestra. Rehearsals resume after Labor Day weekend. More information will appear in the August Zion Life. • Continue to participate actively in our worship at Zion. It is a joy to hear our people sing the hymns and praise songs. God is certainly pleased. To God alone be all the glory! Serving in Christ, Dawn E. Tayon, Minister of Music iL fe June 2015 ZLS News 2,3 Youth News 4-5 Youth Yard Sale 7 Stewardship/Financial8,9 Older Adult Ministry 10 VBS12 ZION SCHOOL Message from the Principal “Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals.” Psalm 150:1-5 Praise is a large part of what the students at Zion do on a daily basis. They praise God through prayer, by learning and memorizing His word, and by the way they treat each other in word and action. Our extra-curricular programming and curriculum add another method of praise that the Bible commands us to do - through music. Each week, our preschool through fourth grade classes have the opportunity to attend one half hour music class where the students learn basic music theory concepts, music literacy, and have the opportunity to praise the Lord with singing, playing instruments, and dancing. From fourth grade all the way down to preschool, the students learn how to read and play rhythms and notes. They listen to classical music from all time periods and a variety of composers, and they learn how to talk about it using musical terms. There is no shortage of movement and dance during music class. We even take some time to learn organized group dancing (square, circle, and line dancing) starting at the kindergarten level. Music class is also the place where our students practice those special songs they sing for our church congregation. Our fifth through eighth grade students are given the opportunity to participate in both organized band and choir groups. Our Advanced Band students receive private lessons each week as well as rehearse together twice a week during the school day. They perform for church and chapel services and Zion’s older adult ministry in addition to their own spring concert and spring day tour. The Advanced Choir learns 3 and 4 part sacred and secular music to perform for church services and chapel, performances in the community, and Zion’s annual Festival of Arts. Each year, the Advanced Choir has some fun flexing our acting muscles by doing either a Christmas or spring musical. Many of Zion’s students continue in music and acting in their high school careers. Alumni will even come back and sing “Voice of Truth” with us at our spring music event each year. Zion’s music program is a favorite among our school students. Music allows our students to develop their minds, explore their God-given talents, have fun, and praise His Holy name in our Lutheran Christian school setting. Zion’s Auction - Success! Saturday, April 18 was the evening of the annual Zion School Auction. Once again, it was a tremendous success with $65,000.00 earned through the silent and oral auction activities. These funds will be used to purchase technology and supplemental items for the classrooms. Thanks to co-chairpersons; Carrie Baldus, Terri Marino, Jen Keel, Jill Batchelder and Ananda Baron for their leadership and dedicated work to make the evening a memorable one for all attendees. Zion Lutheran School has certainly been blessed by the support of all the caring volunteers and Zion congregation members who participated. 2 iL fe Zion Accreditation Update Every five years Missouri Synod Lutheran schools go through an accreditation process to review the school and find ways to improve. This past school year was Zion’s year to go through this process. Zion staff members have worked diligently since last June to complete this process. They met over the summer and throughout the school year to gather evidentiary based materials to prove and support the policies and practices of our school. These policies and practices would then be evaluated by a team of educators who would review them to determine our rating. This accreditation team visited the Zion campus at the end of April to review our work. I am very pleased to announce that the accreditation team recommended that Zion Lutheran School be fully accredited. The accreditation team visited our campus for two days, reviewing the following aspects of our school; The Purpose, Relationships, Leadership, Professional Personnel, Teaching and Learning Strategies, Student Services and Facilities. Through this evaluation process the seven member team determined that our school was a highly functioning school with an outstanding staff. Their recommendation is simply that, a recommendation to the National Lutheran School’s Accreditation Committee. The national committee will review the team recommendation and make the ultimate decision by the first of August. At that time, the school administration will share the final decision with you. Again, I would like to thank the staff, School Board and steering committee for their outstanding work in preparing for and completing the process. It was truly a labor of love! A Fond Farewell The faculty and staff of Zion Lutheran School would like to pay tribute and bid a very fond farewell to Mr. Kniepkamp, our principal for the last four years. You have been a teacher, leader, friend, and mentor. You inspired us with your vision, creativity, and work ethic. You challenged, supported, and respected us. You gave us goals, direction, and puns…lots and lots of puns. Summer Sunday School Schedule May 24 The last day of regular Sunday School May 31 No Sunday School - Classroom Cleaning Summer Sunday School Program Begins June 7 God Made Me and all Creatures Genesis 1:1 June 14God Made the Angels Psalm 91:11 You came out of retirement to lead and guide our school in the direction God wanted us to go, and you’ve played a large role in the successes we have had for our students, His children. We thank you for allowing yourself to be used by Him to further His work at Zion, and we wish you a blessed retirement. For your sake, we’re hoping this one sticks! June 21God Cares for Me & Protects Me 1 Peter 5:7 June 28 Jesus is True Man John 1:14 July 5 Jesus is True God 1 John 5:20 July 12 Jesus Died, Rose & Ascended 1 John 3:8 July 19 Jesus Will Come Again John 14:3 July 26 The Holy Spirit Gives Faith 1 Cor 12:3 Matthew 25:21, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” Aug. 2 The Holy Spirit Gives Faith 2 Cor. 5:17 By the way, don’t worry – old school principals never die, they just lose their faculties. Aug. 9 No Sunday School - Classroom Prep Aug. 16No Sunday School - Classroom Prep Aug. 23The Holy Spirit Helps Me Do Good Works Eph. 2:10 Aug. 31The Holy Spirit Makes the Church Grow John 20-21 With love and gratitude… “Sunday School 2 Go” Bags coming June 6! Personal Mission Story Sunday, May 17 at 9:30am Alongside Commons (Next to the Church Office) Botswana changed my life and I want to tell you about it! Thanks to the amazing support I received from the Zion Lutheran Church congregation, I was able to travel abroad to an unreached group of Africans and share the Gospel! Please join me on Sunday, May 17th, at the Alongside Commons as I share my experience. God is truly doing amazing things in Botswana and it was such a blessing to be a part of the movement! Come and hear about the spark of ministry I witnessed and learn how you can continue to support me as I pursue the world-wide missions calling! Hope to see you all there! Taylor Schmidt 3 ZION YOUTH Jr. High News Confirmation: 7th & 8th Graders iL fe Servant Hours and Worship Reports: Are you going to be a 7th or 8th grader next year? Want to get a head start on your servant hours? Volunteer to help with VBS and get 10 servant hours before class even starts. Just fill out a Volunteer Form in the church lobby before June 6. Worship reports will not start again until August. Confirmation Orientation: All incoming 7th and 8th graders and their parents should attend Confirmation Orientation in August. Watch the mail for more information this summer! Join us for Youth Bible Class… Sr. High News - Connect. Grow. Serve. Trust HIS Plan Youth Nights Friends- Fun- Faith- Food SUNDAY NIGHTS 7-9pm May 17- Bible Study/Discussion May 24- No small groups- Memorial Day Weekend May 31- Graduation Celebration Southern Illinois District High School Retreat *Small groups will not meet during June and July- watch for kick-off dates in August! ★ When: June 13, 2015 (8am-7pm) Join us for Youth Bible Class… ★ Location: Christ Our Rock Lutheran High School – Centralia ★ $25 per youth ★ T-shirts with logo available $10 - pre-order to get your shirt ★ Event includes: Guest Speaker Tron Young, music, Bible study, opportunities to get to know other youth in the district, service project, mini-session speakers, 2 meals, games and activities, and worship Sundays 9:30-10:30am This Little Girl Needs Our Help Please contact Kerri Ann if you could donate to Zhi, our 11 year old sponsored child from China. Together we can make a BIG difference in this little girl’s life. 30 Hour Famine: 4 Thanks to everyone who donated to Zion’s youth who participated in the 30 Hour Famine! Together we can make a difference! Congratulations Class of 2015! Camp Lone Star The countdown is on! Time to get prepared! Graduate Recognition and Blessing May 17 in both services We will have two planning meetings before we leave. Please mark your calendar for June 7 and 28! We will meet from 12-2pm in the youth room. I will have pizza available- please bring $3 if you would like some. Parents are asked to come for the first 30 minutes. Graduation Celebration Everyone is invited for food, games, prizes and more to help our seniors celebrate! Hope to see you there! Sunday, May 31 (7-9pm) Zion Youth Room During June in YBC, we will be doing Bible studies based on the theme. Plan to attend! National Youth Gathering 2016 It may seem like a long way away, but planning for the next National Youth Gathering is starting now! - Youth currently in grades 8th-12th will be eligible to attend the gathering. - The Gathering will be held July 16-20, 2016 in New Orleans, LA- Mark Your Calendars!. - The National Youth Gathering is only held every 3 years- don’t miss out! - Please turn in your Pre-Registration form and non-refundable $50 deposit is due by July 1. - Info meeting for parents and youth: Sunday, May 31 from 9:30-10:30am in the youth room. - Adults age 21 and over who are interested in being adult leaders should contact Kerri. $ Fundraisers and CLS Payments $ $140 Due June 7 (Remainder of Registration) Fundraisers: May 10-June 14: Car Washes May 11- School Picnic food booth June 22-27- Yard Sale pricing and Sale Another Way to Earn $: Scrip Program An easy way to get money for buying what you would buy anyway! This Program works by simply purchasing gift cards to buy items that you would normally buy from your favorite merchants. Each merchant listed earns a certain percentage and that percentage will be split between you and the school. Some merchants include: Shop-N-Save, Kohl’s, Wal-Mart, and more. Orders are on sale in the school office daily. The money your family earns will be put into your youth account. New Orleans Servant Event Restoring Faith, Home and Community Who: Teens and adults When: May 31-June 6 Cost: $275- financial assistance is available For More Info Contact Fred Hasstedt 618-9207262 or fhasstedt@zionbelleville.org Freshmen, in June you will move into the HS youth program! We look forward to you joining us! Watch for info on ways to get involved! 5 Associate Pastor Call Committee Update Dear Brothers and Sisters at ZIon, We would like to update you on the process for calling an Associate Pastor to Zion. Over the next few weeks the committee will be going through names already submitted and evaluating them based on characteristics developed from the congregational survey at the end of last year. Additionally we would like to open the search for any other potential candidates which have not yet been presented to us, so if you know of someone who you would like to recommend please contact one of us or the church office with the name of the candidate and the congregation he is currently serving. Also if you provided us with a name earlier in the process and would like to confirm that we have received the name please feel free to contact us. Voter’s Assembly Monday, June 8 at 7pm Church Sanctuary It is time for our spring congregational Voters’ Assembly. I encourage everyone to attend to talk about issues affecting our Zion family. Thank you for your ongoing support as we wait one together for God to reveal to us the one he has chosen for Zion. Bill, Chrissi, Colin, Curt, Jeff, KerriAnn, Mike, Pat, Randy, Shannon, Tom Letters to the Congregation Dear Fellow Believers in Christ, Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ, This letter is to inform you that after much prayer and input, together with much consideration, I am convinced that God wants me to continue to serve His people here in Knoxville. in order to do that, I am returning your call. I can say that I was very impressed with what I read and heard concerning your congregation. I must say that all those who spoke with me represented your congregation well and created in me a sense of excitement and enthusiasim about ministry there. I would like to thank the Call Committee, the Elders, the leadership of the congregation, and all who participated in conversations with me. The reason for declining your call is that I am convinced that the Lord is calling me to stay at my current congregation. I thank you for your prayers for myself, and my family during this time. I know that in any call situation that someone will be disappointed, and so please know that you all will be in my prayers until God provides you with the pastor He has Called to serve with you all in ministry. God bless you all now and always, In Christ, Rev. Justin Bell, Associate Pastor of Grace Lutheran Dear Students and Families of Zion Lutheran Church and School, In thirteen years of ministry at Zion, God has shown Himself to me in many powerful ways both personally and professionally. I believe that He is who He says He is, He is strong when we are weak, His mercies are new every morning, and His love never fails. All of His promises are true, and He plans to prosper us and to give us a hope and a future. These promises are true for the people of Zion Lutheran Church and School. It is an outstanding school driven by a cohesive group of knowledgeable and loving faculty and staff members who work very well together with a strong, supportive church ministry - all of whom have helped me grow as a professional educator and taught me about love, compassion, and service. We are blessed to partner with helpful and encouraging families as we bring education and the Word of the Lord to our bright and talented students. And while ministry isn’t always perfect or easy, I consider it all joy because of what it produces. After prayerful consideration, thought, and discussion with my family, it is with that same joy that I would like to humbly accept the call to be principal at Zion Lutheran School. I am excited to allow God to use me in this new role alongside the faculty and staff to serve the students and families of Zion, and I cannot wait to see what amazing things He does in His school and church. Thank you to the call committee for working so faithfully and diligently to seek God’s will and plan for our school and to the congregation for placing your trust in the committee and in me. Please continue to pray for our staff that we may continue His good work and share His message with students and families every day. All of you will be in our prayers as we serve as disciples carrying out His plans together. Pastor Kim Receives PhD The congregation is invited to an open house in the Commons area of the school on Saturday, May 23, 6-8pm to congratulate Rev. Dr. Kim on receiving his Ph.D. in Theology from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. You will also have an opportunity to greet Mi Ran and some of Rev. Dr. Kim’s family from Korea. Please RSVP to Kathy Byers, 235-0612, if you are able to attend. 6 In His Service, Mrs. Ananda Baron Make plans now to attend the… Youth Yard Sale * “Not-so-Midnight Madness” Sale- Friday, June 26 Zion Members are invited to shop Friday night from 6:30-8pm- get first dibs on all the great deals! * Public Sale: Saturday, June 27 (8am-2pm) All Proceeds will help youth attend summer trips and other youth events. Thanks for your support! Spring Cleaning? Got Stuff? We’ll take it! Please consider donating items to the youth yard sale. Drop Off Days: June 23-25 (9am-noon and 6-8pm) in the school gym! Call Kerri if those times don’t work for you. Sorry, we cannot take items sooner! *Have a big item you’d like to donate; but don’t know how to get it here? Call Kerri (233-2299). * Sorry, we are unable to take large TV’s, computers, computer monitors and large appliances. Early Childhood Parenting Made Fun, June 15-19, 9:15 – 11am(During VBS) Does life in your den get a little wild sometimes? We can help... Ever feel like you’re not sure where you fit after high school? This group is for anyone interested in Bible study and fellowship opportunities with other college students. Please contact Kerri Schmid if you’re interested in being involved! Join us the first Wednesday of every month in the youth room from 7-9pm! Why not treat yourself while your “big” kids are in VBS to a continental breakfast (provided - in case you didn't have time to eat) and a great class designed to give you more tools for life in your little jungle. Learn how to put an end to whining and crying, minimize power struggles, and handle parenting without anger, lectures, threats, or warnings! A nursery is provided for ECPMF parents with infants and toddlers. (Small infants and happy lap babies are welcome in class). We end at 11 so you’ll still have an hour on your own to run errands, take a walk, or sneak in some reading before VBS is over! You’ll get a 5 week class all in one week! (Includes book, catalog, and CD) – all at a huge discount from the normal cost. Register before June 1 for just $20 (normally $40). Late registration June 1-10 goes up to $25. Alumni of this class at Zion are free - but bring your book. A limited number of nursery spots are available for parents in ECPMF whose other children are attending VBS. Financial assistance is available. 7 STEWARDSHIP and FINANCIAL Zion Life June 2015 Stewardship/Financial TRANSFER THE BLESSING STATUS: Since the inception of the program, Zion members have completed 39 gift plans with a value of over $15 million. Approximately 50% of this amount ($7 million) is designated to Zion. Zion members continue to develop plans with the help of Gift Planning Counsellors Scott Radden and Dan Roth. They will be very happy to help you, too. ZION FINANCIAL STATUS: So far this year, Church and School receipts (offerings, tuition and other income) are slightly behind budget. While this is not good news, our status is better at this time than in prior years. Staff continues to make every effort to minimize expenditures. However, they can cut just so much without severely impacting ministries. Please see the following item about “the summer offering slump”. PLEASE HELP US AVOID “THE SUMMER OFFERING SLUMP”: We ask all Zion members to try to keep their offerings current for the next several months and help us avoid “the summer offering slump”. Historically, offerings drop off as people are out of town on vacations, visiting family etc. However, most of our expenses continue over the summer – there is no vacation, for example, from the utility bills- so the need for offerings continues. You can mail them or drop them off at the Church Office before you depart. Of course, electronic giving is also available. Whatever you do , please help us avoid “the summer offering slump”. Thank you! BUILDING FUND/G2G STATUS: So far this year we’ve received all but about $2,000 needed to cover mortgage costs. Faithful members are steppIng up and continuing to give to this fund even though there is no formal program to do so. THANK YOU! WE REJOICE IN YOUR FAITHFULNESS AND ONGOING GENEROSITY! However, we need more members to step up and join this group if we are to make a meaningful dent in our mortgage balance. If you’ve given before but don’t now, we ask you to consider starting again. If you’ve never given to the Building Fund/ G2G, there is no time like the present to begin. A “TRANSFER THE BLESSING” NOTE FROM THE LCMS FOUNDATION: Your Will, Trust(s) or Beneficiary Designation(s) are legal arrangements that give assets thoughtfully to intended recipients. These plans are like “gifts from heaven” planned to bless family and witness faith. Find out more about thoughtful endof-life charitable planning from Scott Radden (618) 977-4049 or Dan Roth (618) 234-4767 DICK MEYER, 277-8728 8 iL fe Transfer the Blessings News Scott Radden has recently accepted the position of Gift Planning Counselor for the LCMS Foundation serving the Southern Illinois District. In this role, he will work closely with Dan Roth, Associate Gift Planning Counselor for Zion Lutheran Church, and the Transfer the Blessings team here at Zion. As the Gift Planning Counselor serving Zion, he will assist individuals: •Transfer God-given blessings to the people they love and the ministries they hold dear in their hearts. •Discover creative and efficient methods of giving. •Uncover their Lifetime Plan for Giving. Scott has served the LCMS Foundation since 1998, as a Trust Administrator where he provided quality care to the donors and beneficiaries of close to 1,200 accounts for 16 years. Radden replaced Kirk Mueller who was serving as the Gift Planning Counselor for Missouri and Southern Illinois for more than 8 years. Mueller now serves as the Gift Planning Counselor for the Saint Louis area and Eastern Missouri. Scott is a life-long member of Zion, worshipping regularly with his wife, Ann, and their two children, Alexis and Robert. Scott and Dan will be happy to assist you in completing your Lifetime Plan for Giving or answer any questions you may have. Please contact either Scott (618)977-4049 or Dan (618) 2344767 for more information. Giving Update Sowers Garden Join the gardeners in the Sowers Garden on the east side of Zion’s property as we begin planting vegetables for this summer season. We will also be clearing ground for flower plantings and setting up our compost bins and water barrels, so all help is appreciated. Questions? Call Kathy at 235-0612. News Flash!!! Linus blankets from Zion has delivered 200 quilts this year. To help us achieve a higher goal, why not come out and help? We meet every Thursday in the church basement. On July 23 and Oct. 22 we will have special work days (we’ll meet at 9am and enjoy a potluck lunch, finishing up at 1pm). We have a lot of fun creating quilts for children in need. For more info call Shirley at 277-9274 or Judy at 830-0430. Adult Ed Summer Schedule Sundays 9:30-10:30am in the Fellowship Hall (church lower level) Our summer Adult classes try to offer classes you can jump in and out of to accommodate vacations, holidays and out of town guests. This summer we’ll start with: Things God Uses to Grow Your Faith Imagine how different your outlook on life would be if you had absolute confidence that God was with you. Imagine how differently you would respond to difficulties, temptations, and even good things if you knew with certainty that God was in all of it and was planning to leverage it for good.. What are the tools God works through to help us to grow a mature or “big” faith?. 1. Big Faith - June 7 2. Camp Restore Ministry Team - June 14 3. Practical Teaching - June 21 4. Providential Relationships – July 5 5. Private Disciplines – July 12 6. Personal Ministry – July 19 Specials May 31 - Summer Potluck Preview - No Sunday School. Adult Bible Class will be “Family Friendly” this day! Come with Kids and get a sneak preview of “Things God uses to grow your Faith”! We’ll also be learning about the Trinity in a short lesson that previews summer Sunday School too! June 28 – Eric Funke, Missionary to Tanzania will be speaking to Adult Ed. Come and learn a little Swahili and about some important work Zion members have been supporting. 9 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League WHAT: National LWML Convention WHEN: June 25 - 28 WHERE: Des Moines, Iowa ATTENDEES: Margo Wolf - (Metro South Zone delegate) Mickey Roth and Melissa Papka DETAILS: Theme -- Sow * Nourish * Reap (2 Corinthians 9:8) LWML SISTERS: Next monthly meeting will be Tuesday, September 8 Enjoy your summer! Older Adult Ministry Bonnie J. Griffith, Coordinator Friday, May 22 at 10am Zion’s Fellowship Hall. The program is a presentation by Judge Laura Grandy. She will speak to us about elderly care, credit card fraud, and reverse mortgage to name a few. The Korean church will provide the main course. Please bring a side, salad or dessert. Please RSVP by May 19 so that the Koreans know how much to prepare. Reminder: If anyone wishes to contribute (cash or check) to CCI Christ Community International, supporting the educaiton of girls in Uganda, bring it along and give it to Bill Keel. It will be credited to your church giving. Reminder to Seniors Seniors in Ministry will not meet in the months of June and July. Hope to see you when we meet in August. I would like to thank everyone who helped with the luncheons. Your help means so much to me. It helps me to stay focused on other things that are taking place. You are greatly appreciated. This month’s spotlight is on Eva Nelson. Eva was born and raised in St. Louis, MO. Eva’s mother was a nurse and her father worked for the railroad in E. St. Louis. Eva had two brothers and one sister. They are all deceased. Her sister passed away when she was only in her 30s. Eva attended Cleveland High School in St. Louis. When she was old enough, she worked after school at the Kingsland Theater in the concession stand. She was fortunate to get the job. Her brother’s girlfriend worked there and when she left, they gave Eva her job. A year or so after she graduated from high school, Eva moved to California to live. Eva attended a Junior College. She had wanted to follow in her mother’s footsteps and become a nurse. However, she soon got homesick and came back to St. Louis and lived with her parents. She never became a nurse. Instead, she later worked for Southwestern Illinois College as a Data Processor. Eva’s parents attended Trinity E & R Church and that’s where she was baptized. Later she was confirmed at Trinity UCC church Eva liked to attend church functions and sometimes the church sponsored a dance. She was at a dance when she met Dave. He asked her to dance and later asked her out on a date. Most of the time, they would go dancing. They really liked to dance and did so for many years to come. Eva and Dave got married on October 28, 1967. Dave was Lutheran, so after they married Eva became Lutheran. They have one son, Eugene and one granddaughter. Eva couldn’t remember exactly what brought them to Belleville. They were members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Columbia, IL. In 1987, when they moved to Belleville, they transferred to Zion. Eva really liked to attend Zion’s Seniors in Ministry. She mentions it every once in awhile when I visit her. Eva and Dave’s health has deteriorated to the point that required them to be in a nursing home. They live in BRIA Health Services of Belleville. They get therapy and it really seems to help. I am sure they would enjoy having company. They always make me feel welcome. God bless you Eva and may the Lord grant you His comfort and peace. 10 Ministry Leadership Group (MLG) Update The MLG acts as a “Board of Directors” and has oversight of all committees and boards. The following items were discussed during the April MLG meeting: - Associate Pastor Call Committee Update: Randy Hahn, Committee Chair stated the committee will meet to review the call process, reassess names already received and seek new names. The committee will continue to provide updates to the congregation using the Sunday Weekly News and the Zion Life. - Treasurer’s Update: Congregational giving is down slightly, but expenses are also down. Financial Management Committee continues to monitor the overall budget and recommend adjustments if necessary. Pastoral Report: Pastor Downs presented several proposals for MLG consideration. The Endowment Fund Committee and Financial Management Committee had also provided their endorsement and funding recommendations for these proposals. MLG approved the following project expenditures: School: Gym Floor – Insurance money from the modular fire in 2011 ($66,000) Fellowship Hall: Youth Room Enhancement – Bonn Estate (undesignated) (approximately $40,000) Window Scape in Fellowship Hall ($18,000 from G2G) Worship Space: Speakers, Sound Board, Video Upgrades – Bonn Estate (undesignated) ($38,000) Chancel Improvements – Bonn Estate/G2G (undesignated) (estimates $3,000 - $21,000) Pew Cushions – future fundraiser ($28,000) Korean Ministry: The MLG continues to discuss the financial situation and consider potential options. This important ministry currently has sufficient funds until July 2015. Next MLG meeting is scheduled for May 18 at 7pm in the church library. MLG members are: Bob Kienitz, President, Diane Harsin, Vice-President, Pat Mandeville, Treasurer, Frank Rudolph, Cindy Keel, Mark Harms, Jeff Papka, Andy Grove and Randy Hahn. Washed While You Worship! May 10-June 14 (weather permitting)Get your car washed during early or late service. Just park your car in the designated parking lot by the Carlyle entrance and pick it up when you’re ready. Sponsored by Zion’s high school youth! Donations are accepted and will go to support youth summer trips. Thanks for your support!! Women’s Softball Teams Forming Join our Zion ladies for a slowpitch recreational softball league that plays on Tuesday evenings from May 26 - August 11. Registration is online only ($30) and needs to be done by May 29. Questions? Contact Joni Schnitzler (233-2299 or jschnitzler@ zionbelleville.org). Attention Zion Men! The Men’s summer softball season is right around the corner. We will begin play on Monday June 1. Games will be each Monday evening through mid August. Zion will be fielding two teams in the John Ellis Memorial Softball League. The fee will be $35 per player. Interested players should contact Kyle Lewis at klewis@bnd.com or call 618-792-5050 for more details and to place your name on a roster. We will begin practice scrimmages in May. 11 Church233-2299 Church Fax 233-2324 churchofE-Mail fice@zionbelleville.org School234-0275 School Fax 233-2972 schooloffice@zionE-Mail Zion Lutheran Church 1810 McClintock Ave. Belleville, Illinois 62221 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL INSIDE Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 101 Belleville, IL 62221 belleville.org Brian Downs Senior Pastor 920-6657 Jin O Jeong Korean Pastor920-9311 Jill Hasstedt, D.C.E. Family Ministry920-6278 KerriAnn Schmid, D.C.E. Youth Ministry920-5603 David Kniepkamp Principal July Zion Life Articles due June 2 623-8828 Dawn Tayon Music Minister 222-7428 Joni Schnitzler Fin. Administrator 233-2299 www.zionbelleville.org It’s Time for Zion’s Vacation Bible School! “Camp Discovery” - Jesus at Work Through Us! Get ready for Camp Discovery! Your children will explore Bible stories that show how God works in His people to save them and how He works through His people to serve others! Jesus saves us and gives us faith, courage and wisdom to serve Him and share the Good News! Complete with interactive and engaging activities, kids will learn about Jesus’ amazing love each day! Early registration begian May 10. Bible Stories! Skits! Music! Games!Crafts! Snacks! And much more! VBS Volunteer Team We need YOU! Last year over 200 children attended VBS and heard about the amazing love God has for them. We are praying just as many, if not more, come this summer! Many volunteers are needed to help make VBS a success! Please consider volunteering as a group leader or helper or to help at one of our stations: craft, snack, recreation, etc. If you are interested, please contact Jill Batchelder or Kerri Schmid or fill out the Volunteer Form on www.zionbelleville.org by June 10. We’d love to have you be part of the team! ADULT and LIVING PRAISE CHOIRS Soprano Marsha Bennett Janelle Berteau Patti Burkett Yvonne Goerger Bonnie Griffith Grace Hoffman Melissa Papka Melissa Rutledge Caitlyn Taylor Monica Taylor HANDBELL CHOIR Heidi Devany Sherri Devany Jessica Hagen Linda Hagen Carissa Keen Julie Kienitz Pat McClane Helen Myers Kelsi Scaiefe Sandy Scaiefe John Schmieding Kenzie Scott Renee Scott Marge Weis Alto Carolyn Bryant Shirley Cotton Janet Freeman Cindy Hammond Shirley Hill Bonnie Keel Janet Klein Kerry Knipp Becky Schnitzius Pat Seibel Donna Sprengel Donna Summers Tenor SENIOR HANDBELL CHOIR Dorothy Brown Leo Brown Maudie Heller Joan Kasten LuIna McKerracher Donna Sprengel Diane Tetzlaff Marie Tinney The late Paul Walther Harold Zahrndt PRAISE TEAM MEMBERS VOCALS BAND/INSTRUMENTAL Patti Burkett Bill Heizer Bonnie Griffith Diane Heizer Gary Gruenert Steve Westlund Cathy BerryErik Westlund Taylor KeelAnanda Baron Brandon NitzChris Baron Ashley Shalenko Russell Hayes Chris Dain Trevor Sanchez Jean Downs Sam Schlechte Kathy KellyPeter Bergt Donna Summers Drew Wilkerson Craig Aukamp Nikki Schnitzler Ananda Baron Mark Schnitzler Chris BaronTom Brinkmann Justin TayonDaniel Polahar Erin DownsJeremy McKinney Leyna TayonJerid McKinney Kelsi Scaiefe Justin Tayon Nikki Schnitzler Jeremy McKinney Daniel Polahar Alexis Radden Bethany Dain Ben Harsin Christian Hayward Elizabeth Zmaila Macey Marino Summer Schmidt Kenzie Scott LeRoy Eckhardt Steve Grandcolas Gary Gruenert Larry Hoffman Mickey Roth John Schmieding Dan Wolf Margo Wolf Josh Wohltmann MEN’S VOCAL ENSEMBLE Ken Ebright LeRoy Eckhardt Mark Goerger Fred Hasstedt Curt Hecke Bill Keel Frank Pruisman Dan Roth John Schmieding Becky Schnitzius Dan Schnitzius Roger Sprengel The late Paul Walther Dan Wolf Margo Wolf Many Thanks to These Talented Servants! Bass Phil Bennett Bill Keel Dan Roth Frank Rudolph Chuck Schaefer Dan Schnitzius Mike Seibel Roger Sprengel Justin Tayon Kay Weber ORCHESTRA Flute Kate Holle Joni Schnitzler Nikki Schnitzler Eva Weber Clarinet Heidi Devany Sherri Devany Diane Heizer Oboe Carissa Keen Bass Clarinet Melody Holcomb Trumpet Ben Harsin Fred Hasstedt Marc Rodriguez Kelsi Scaiefe Bob Seibert French Horn Brendan Kinney Jeremy McKinney Alto Saxophone Ben Rutledge Bassoon Katherine Schlechte Trombone Michael Bergt Peter Bergt Goldie Derezotes Baritone Horn Bill Heizer Percussion Peter Bergt Sam Schlechte Leyna Tayon Men’s Retreat Reflections The end of April, 16 men from Zion made their way to Colorado’s Lutheran Valley Retreat Center for a few days of retreating from “normal” activities and focusing on Godly relationships, manly events and reflection. Below is a glimpse of the impact experienced by a couple of the participants from Zion. “To experience the men’s retreat at LVR is to experience a true brotherhood of Christian men: serving, worshipping, socializing and playing together in a place that truly shows off God’s landscaping. This was my second year at this retreat, and once again I was able to connect with so many people who had the same worries, desires, troubles and successes. All of these things, and more, which we recall through prayer and worship, can only truly be handled when God is given the reigns! We encouraged each other through fun activities like hiking, four wheeling and shooting. We encouraged each other through what many would consider frightening situations like rappelling off 200ft cliffs, climbing rock walls, and taking a leap of faith off of a 30ft telephone pole. We laughed, and cried together. We learned about each other, and I took a fresh look at the husband, father, friend and person that I want to be. I also discovered again, that sleeping in a cabin with 15 other men is not something I wish to do all the time...haha These men are my closest brothers in Christ, and I encourage any man reading this to consider trying out this retreat next year. God bless!” Scott Rutledge “I have been asked by many individuals “How was the Men’s Retreat?” This is a difficult question to answer. Was it about the encouragement we gave each other when we were about to jump off a 200 foot cliff? Was it about the difficult climb up Mount Cedar at 5am to see the sunrise over Pikes Peak? Maybe it was about conquering your fear of heights on the challenge course. Was it about the evening Bible studies and worship? The 250 men singing praises to their God on the mountain hillside on Sunday? It was reconnecting old friendships, and making new ones. Yes, it was awesome, because we are Fred Hasstedt men of action, called by our God. “