Tower 2015-10 - Zion Lutheran Church

Transcription

The Tower
For Members & Friends of Zion Lutheran Church
October 2015
Please submit news items to tower@zlc-aa.org by the 10th of the preceding month
New Staff
Three part-time staff positions were filled in the last month:
Elgin Clingaman is our Organist. He began his musical career by studying the piano in 1968. He
graduated from Adrian College, Adrian, Michigan in 1983 with a B.M. in Piano Performance. He then
studied organ at the University of Michigan with Marilyn Mason, James Kibbie, and Michele Johns. In
1995, Mr. Clingaman performed in Detroit at the National Convention of the Organ Historical Society.
He resides in Ann Arbor and is co-owner of Renaissance Pipe Organ Co., Inc. He was the Dean of
the Ann Arbor Chapter of the American Guild of Organists from 1996-2001 and served on the Steering
Committees and as Registrar for the Region V AGO Conventions in 1999 (Ann Arbor) and 2009
(Detroit).
Natalie Emptage Downs is the Director of Choirs and Special Music at Zion. Natalie holds a Bachelor
of Music in Vocal Performance from Otterbein University, a Master of Music and Doctor of Musical
Arts in Vocal Performance from Michigan State University. Her doctoral research was focused on
women in music, specifically the life and works of Pauline Viardot, a famous mezzo soprano of the
nineteenth century. Along with her duties at ZLC, Natalie also teaches private voice at Spring Arbor
University and performs regularly in recital, opera, and musical theatre productions throughout Michigan. She comes from Trinity Lutheran in Ann Arbor, where she played in the hand bell choir with her
husband and performed in the festival choir and praise band. Natalie lives in Dexter with her husband,
Trevor, and their daughter, Genevieve. She is excited to be called to join the music ministry at ZLC
and invites all musicians to share their talents to make a joyful noise unto the Lord.
Alison Hendricks is our Contemporary Worship Leader. She is a graduate of the University of Michigan
with a degree in trombone performance and music education. She currently teaches band in the Ann
Arbor Public Schools at Allen Elementary, Angell Elementary, Scarlett Middle School, and Huron High
School. Throughout college, Alison attended Lutheran Campus Ministry at Lord of Light Lutheran
Church in Ann Arbor, now known as Intersection. As a performer, Alison has participated in a variety of
musical groups from concert bands, orchestra pits, garage bands, church ensembles, as well as her
involvement in her folk vocal trio and solo performance of her own music. She is excited to become part
of the Zion community once again, since she was also confirmed there!
Upcoming Events
CROP Walk
House Blessing
Last month’s Tower ran a Mission Core Ministry feature
article on the annual CROP Walk. Pr. Jim challenges the
congregation to take time to participate in some way. If you
can’t walk, you can support others, especially Zion’s youth.
Sponsor sheets are available at the welcome desk. Pr.
Jim has walked with CROP all over the nation: IA, MN,
WV, NH, CT, but never in MI. We walk because so many
others walk every day for fresh water and food. Let’s walk
together and do something for those in our world who are
thirsty and hungry.
The congregation is invited to Pr. Jim and Barbara’s home
for a house blessing. There will be two days, October 17
(Sat.) and 18 (Sun.) from 3-6PM for families to visit our
new home. We are located at 7744 Pleasant Lane, Ypsilanti 48197. Stop by even for just a quick fifteen minute
visit. The blessing prayer will start at 5PM each night. No
gifts for us, but please make a donation of cereal or other
foods to Zion that go to Emmanuel Lutheran’s food bank
or Hope Clinic.
Worship Core Ministry
Blessing of Animals at Zion in
September
Calling all Musicians
It’s a great time to join a music ensemble at Zion!

Zion Handbells meets weekly on Thursdays from 6:00-7:30PM
in the Sanctuary. We welcome ringers ages high school to adult.
No ringing experience necessary, but music reading is a plus.

Chancel Choir meets weekly on Thursdays from 7:30-9:00PM in
the Sanctuary. We welcome singers ages high school through
adult.

Zion Singers is a group of singers with daytime availability who
come together once a month to prepare and present a program
of sacred, fun and seasonal songs to residents at a local nursing
care, assisted living, or hospice care facility. Our October 2015
date is: Oct. 23rd at Hillside Terrace. Our rehearsal will be at
12:15PM in Music Room 1 on Level B1, and the performance will
be at Hillside Terrace at 2PM.
Singers and instrumentalists are also encouraged to provide Special
Music throughout our weekly and festival worship services. If you
would like to be involved, please email Natalie Downs (ndowns@zlcaa.org).
Terrific Tuesdays
Terrific Tuesday Worship Service ended in September and we thank
those who came each week. We tried many different experiences.
Please let Worship Core Ministry know what you liked and didn’t like.
A special thank you to all the musicians who came and enhanced the
outside worship with music and song.
October Lectionary
Oct 4:
Oct 11:
Oct 18:
Oct 25:
Genesis 2:18-28, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16
Amos 5:6-7, 10-15, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31
Isaiah 53:4-12, Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45
Jeremiah 31:31-34, Romans 3:19-28, John 8:31-36
Last Drive-In Worship Service at Zion for 2015
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Cross+Generational Worship
Starts on October 4
This fall and continuing into next year,
Zion
will
be
having
one
Cross+Generational worship each month
at the 9:30AM worship time. What is
Cross+Generational Worship? It means
that families in Bibleland, Jesus and Me
(JAM), and Caffeine and Christ (C&C) will
be coming to the 9:30 worship rather than
attending classes upstairs. Zion’s Sunday
morning schedule does not have an education hour separate from worship time.
This means seldom do we worship together as all generations. This year we
are being intentional about offering times
for families and individuals of all ages to
worship together. Cross+Generational
Worship will include youth leading in worship, Chancel choir singing, Hand bells
playing and the Liberty Street Praise
Band. There will be something for families
to create and take home that reflects the
theme of the day. This worship will be
intentional in its planning to create space
for all ages to give God thanks and
praise. The 8:15 and the 11AM worship
services will continue to be offered at
their
normal
times.
The
Cross+Generational Worship dates are
scheduled for: October 4, November 1,
January 10, February 14, March 20, and
April 3.
Young Discipleship Core Ministry
Upcoming Young
Discipleship
Events
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Program
The J.A.M. (Jesus And Me) Youth (6th, 7th, and 8th graders) are heading up the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Program at Zion again this year. It’s easy and it brings much
joy to the child who will receive your shoebox filled with gifts. There will be additional flyers
in the welcome center with more details – please pick one up.
1. Take home an Operation Christmas Child shoe box provided for you (available
October 18).
2. Cut out the LABEL form on the back of the flyer (or print one from
www.samaritanspurse.org). Check off the appropriate age for the child. Attach the label
to the top of the box.
3. Fill the box with gifts (school supplies, toys, hard candy/gum, toothbrush, bar soap; a
large folded tin foil sheet as moms of kids like to use/reuse it for cooking (see website for
more).
4. Each box needs $7 to send it to its destination. Consider using EZ Give (online) then
print out special EZ Give shoe box labels included in the e-mail receipt. Then you can
receive e-mail telling you the destination of your gift. If you prefer paying by check, make
it payable to Samaritan’s Purse, and note on the memo line “Operation Christmas Child.”
5. Please bring finished boxes back to church on or before Sunday, November 15.
Look for a drop-off area in Bibleland upstairs, the Welcome Center, or drop off at the
church office.
Questions? Email or call Nina Johnson (734-649-8116, njohnson@zlc-aa.org ) or Tom
Clifford (668-6309, tm3clifford@yahoo.com) or Amy Peters (amykpeters@yahoo.com).
We hope to collect over 150 boxes. Think of the smiles your box will bring to those who receive it!

Grace Place—
October 18th

Catechism (For all
Grades)—October
25th

Family Fun at
Three Cedars
Farm—October
25th
Please contact Roger
Santini (rsantini@zlcaa.org) for more information.
Member Caring Core Ministry
Oktoberfest 2015
Friday, October 30 at 5:30PM
in Piper Hall
Authentic German Food Plus an Evening of
Music, Dancing and Fun
Music and Entertainment
Sing along to the accordion music of Luke Schaible
Songs led by Klaus Kummer
Zion Special Seniors’ Luncheon
Saturday, October 3 Noon – 2:00 P.M.
Theme “Tailgating”
Guest Speaker: Jon Falk, retired Equipment Manager
from the University of Michigan. Be sure to wear your
favorite school colors and be prepared to sing “The
Victors.”
To ensure that we have enough food, please reserve
your place by registering in the church office during
the week (734-994-4455) or in the Welcome Center
on Sundays. A suggested donation of $8.00/person
payable at the door would be appreciated greatly to
help cover expenses.
FLU SHOT CLINIC
Performance by John Jarvis and
the German Park Schuhplatter
October 14, 2015
Tickets go on sale September 27, $10 per person
Stellhorn Lounge
Y.E.S. (Young Energetic Seniors 55+) Event
Flu Shots - $33
10AM—2PM
Pneumonia Shots-$157
Join the Festivities—Guests Welcome
Insurance card must be presented to clinic staff.
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Congregation Council
sider new logo and branding, and obtained two estimates
from designers, one of $1300-1800, and one of $13001500. We would do the Common Table Communications
first, then the logo. Council approved (all in favor).
Communion Ware: Pastor Jim is having people from the
Worship Committee look at new communion ware – new
chalice (pottery one is chipped). Will cost $300-500, and
be paid from the Memorial Fund.
Postage Machine: The lease on our postage machine has
expired. This machine is used daily, and is particularly
important for our large mailings. The machine we have
been using since 2007 has a monthly lease payment of
$244. The proposed replacement is slightly less complex
(the current machine is not used to its full capacity), and
costs $231 per month for 60 months. Pastor Jim and David Beck are in favor of this proposal. (Note, the actual
postage is purchased separately, on an as-needed basis.
There is also a half cent per letter discount for using the
postage machine.) Council approved (all in favor).
Video Upgrade Discussion.
Zion had set aside $100K from the Haarer bequest, some
of which was to fund an IT person, another portion of
which was to fund a video upgrade. The intent of the upgrade is to provide enhanced video capability to be able to
stream video to the web. Our current equipment doesn’t
allow us to record and stream at the same time. Bob T
presented several options from IT of varying cost and capability. The first option would put in place the majority of
the requirements that allows us to stream services. The
quality would not be ideal, but it could be improved at a
later date. This $27K investment, for which we have the
funding, gives us video hardware that allows us to capture
what comes from the cameras, allows recording independently from different cameras, and uses the existing
standard definition cameras. We would need another
$15,000 to be completely high definition (cost is $5000 for
one camera). Council voted in September 2014 to approve the video system upgrade. Vickie proposed we approve Option 3 – new video system plus the one high definition camera. We agreed to vote on it on Tuesday, by
which time Bob B. will get additional information about
funding this option.
Sequoia Place:
Mission Core Ministry requests Council’s approval of the
appointment of Peter Bertocci to the Board of Sequoia
Place, replacing Pastor Bracklein. The Sequoia Board
consists of three members each from Zion, Trinity, and
LSSM. Currently, Pat Bauer and Debbie Weber serve as
the Zion appointees with Pastor Bracklein, whose
term ends this year. He would like to step down as soon
as his replacement is confirmed. Peter Bertocci has
agreed to take over the spot, commencing immediately. Mission Core Ministry has discussed and approved the
appointment.
Without further discussion, Council approved.
August 16, 2015—Highlights
Financial report highlights:
Available cash at the end of July was $88,877. Cash in
the operations account as of 08/14/15 is approximately
$83,500. We currently have sufficient cash on hand to
last the next few months.

Endowment: The Endowment fund made disbursements in July of $32,000 to the General Operations
account and $18,000 to the Capital Projects Reserve
dedicated account (Building & Grounds). The General
Operations account had fallen below $25,000 in June.
We had budgeted $95,000 from the Endowment Fund
for General Operations in 2015. We are likely to see
Operating Cash levels very low at the end of the year
without another disbursement to the General Operations account.

Income: For the month of July contributions were
$66,654, which was only $531 less than what was
projected in the budget. This compares to contributions of $65,142 in July last year. YTD, contributions
are $7,742 less than budgeted, but $12,347 more
than YTD last year.

Expenses: Overall, we were $14,645 under budget
for the month. YTD we are $59,938 under budget.

Building Fund: Contributions to the Down with the
Debt fund were $2,367.50 by 17 givers in July. The
minimum principal payment for August was $2,562.37.
David has cut the August checks to make the additional principal payment for the full amount of
$2,367.50 received in July plus the minimum principal
payment from the Operations fund. We owe Thrivent
$65,572.03 as of the end of July.
Pastor Jim’s updates:
Wedding Policy: Several months ago, Council had agreed
with Pastor Jim to allow non-members to be married at
Zion given that weddings represent ideal opportunities to
share the gospel with couples. The policy document has
been updated to reflect this change. Member fees haven’t
changed; non-members pay those fees as well as a building usage fee ($600) and an honorarium for the pastor (as
it takes his time from other church business). The building
usage fee includes, for example, cleaning and air conditioning. Council approved the wedding policy document
with two abstentions.
Communications within Zion: It was clear from our retreat
this summer that we needed a communications specialist
of some kind.
Kelly suggested we contact Adam
Delezenne, from Common Table Communications. He is
a consultant and his project evaluation prospectus is $400
-$500. He would help us think through what we need to
do, help us to create “best practices” for communications,
and think about what skills we need from someone who
we’d hire. Council approved (all in favor).
New Logo: Pr. Jim has been working with Art Dils to con4
Congregation Council (cont.)
Remaining Haarer Funds:
Council had decided some time ago that any funds not used
for ministry by a certain deadline would be used to pay down
the debt. However, if there were funds designated for a particular use, that money would stay in the specific account.
Margie suggests gathering information about what funds
haven’t been spent, and revisiting our policy. Bob B. will find
out this information, and bring it back to Council for discussion at a future meeting.
Update on Endowment Distribution Policies:
Bob B., Bob T., Margie, Pr. Jim, Leif Fry and Marcus Hunt
will meet about how the new distribution policy will work –
e.g., once the money is received from the Endowment fund,
where would it reside until it’s used? Endowment Board will
hold a couple of meetings for the congregation to inform
everyone about the change in policy, the reasons for it, and
how it will work.
August 18, 2015—Highlights
Personnel Committee Update
A temporary employment position is being drafted for the
communications outreach person that Pr. Jim and the Personnel Committee have been in touch with.
The Personnel Committee posted job announcements for
three part-time positions of Director of Choirs and Special
Music, Church Organist and Keyboard Musician, and Contemporary Worship Leader, and interviews are underway.
Interviews have been a collaborative process with Personnel
Committee, other core ministries, volunteers from the
church, etc. We have a set of people invested in the decisions, which has created a sense of ownership of the process.
Personnel’s goal was to have these positions filled the week
after Labor Day. Council decided to meet Tuesday, August
25th at 7PM to discuss the recommendations and then send
a summary of the discussion through email for those Council
members that are not able to make it, and we will vote via
email (because it wasn’t clear whether we would have a
quorum to be able to vote on August 25th). Council voted
via email the week of August 25th to approve Personnel’s
recommendations, (all but one in favor and one abstention),
of the following:

Director of Choirs and Special Music: Natalie Downs

Church Organist and Keyboard Musician: Elgin Clingaman
 Contemporary Worship Leader: Alison Hendricks
Project Grow Garden Update
Margie reported from Bryan Weinert that Project Grow representatives tested the soil and found it wouldn’t be conducive
to gardening. Project Grow doesn’t usually do raised beds.
For now, the proposal is on hold.
Circles Feasibility Study
The director of the local aid organization, Friends in Deed, is
proposing a feasibility study for the Circles program. The
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Circles program is designed to help individuals out of
poverty via small support groups that providing guidance (e.g., how to prepare a resume, how to manage a
check book, how to make good financial choices) rather
than direct financial assistance. This program has been
successful in overcoming generational poverty in various places across the country. The program’s website,
www.circleusa.org, includes more information as well as
videos. Friends in Deed is asking for three members
from each of their primary supporting churches to participate in the feasibility study, and from Zion, Bob T., Bryan Weinert, and Mike Weber have volunteered. The
purpose of the feasibility study would be to determine
how to find people interested in participating in the program, both as “leaders” (leading themselves out of poverty) and mentors; determine how best to communicate
across economic classes, etc. Some costs are associated with training the mentors. This is a departure from
the usual assistance provided by Friends in Deed, and
they want to see how it could work. Mark’s purpose is
to inform Council of the feasibility study. At this point,
there is nothing that needs to be approved.
Video Upgrade Proposal
Bob T. gathered additional information about funding.
There are two Zion Haarer dedicated accounts relevant
to the discussion:


The “Part-Time Zion IT Staff position” account,
which includes funds for both the staff position as
well as the sanctuary video upgrade. This account
has about $34,000 in it, of which $23,000 is available for the video upgrade.
The “Facility Security System,” account, which has
about $14,000 in it.
We would need $27,000 for the sanctuary video system,
or $32,000 for both the video system plus a high definition (HD) camera for the sanctuary. As for whether the
HD cameras are necessary, Bob confirmed with Worship Core Ministry (Hollie Bertram and Dale Eckhart)
that they would like all the sanctuary cameras to be HD,
for both live streaming and for recording. Given that
there are two dedicated accounts that pertain to IT
goals (i.e., sanctuary video and facility security), and
new information suggests that a building surveillance
system could be purchased for less than initially
thought, council discussed the merits of merging the two
accounts. Council approved a motion that the two
Haarer accounts related to IT goals (the “Part-time Zion
IT Staff position” and the “Facility Security System” accounts) be merged, for the purpose of accomplishing
both goals of video for the sanctuary and building surveillance, with one voting against. We agreed we did
not need to select a specific video upgrade package for
the sanctuary, but could leave it to IT committee to accomplish as much as they can with the money available.
Adult Discipleship Core Ministry
COMMUNITY GROUPS—FALL 2015
Listed below are existing and new Community Groups. Please contact the church office for more information on joining or
starting a group.
Group make-up / focus / interest
Leader(s)
Day
Time
Frequency
Location
Open to all, service to the homeless
Kent Peterson
meet irregularly, serve the homeless often
Women, generally over 50
Debbie Weber
Mondays
7:00PM
twice a month
in homes / at Zion
Open to all, ministry to military families
Laura Girbach
Sundays
5:00PM
every other week
in Girbach’s
home
Couples with teenagers
Chris Gajar
Sundays
6:30PM
(currently suspending regular meetings, but continuing with work on Foster Children projects)
once a month
in homes / at Zion
Bible Bumpkins (open to all)
Mary Ardner
Wednesdays
6—7PM
1st Wed of month
at Zion
Couples with young children
Sarah/David Wentzloff
Sundays
1:00PM
every other week
at Zion
Couples with teenagers / empty nesters Heidi/Todd Newman
Sundays
in homes
Men
Dale Eckart
Mondays
6:30AM
every week
at Zion
Men, bowlers
Mike Weber
Mondays
after bowling
every week
Bel-Mark Lanes
Individuals/couples who like to learn
Ruth Huff
Mondays
7:00PM
every other week
at Zion
Individuals/couples, 50’s-70’s
Steve & Judy Kesler
Mondays
7:00PM
every other week
in homes
Couples, retired
Charlotte Dootz/Joyce Schlecht Mondays
7:00PM
Women, over 70
Linda Greb
Tuesdays
9:30AM
every other week
Open to all
Ron/Linda Hilst
Sundays
11:00AM
last Sun. of month at Zion
Open to all
John Leipzig/Avis Ellingrod
Wednesdays
7:00PM
once a month
in Avis Ellingrod’s home
Men
Dan McConnell
Thursdays
7:00—8:30AM
every week
at Zion
Recent Empty Nesters
Christy Nelson
God’s Gardeners
Carol Brodbeck
Mondays
9:30AM—Noon
fourth Mon of month at Zion
Young couples
Kara Kogelman
Tues. or Wed.
evening
every other week
in homes
Moms
Karen Fry
Thursdays
9:30—11:30AM
2nd & 4th weeks
at Zion
in homes
in homes
occasionally
The Common Read at Zion—Fall 2015
This fall we are encouraging you to read Ann Lamott, Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith
Anne Lamott is a writer living in California, who has published a number of works detailing how she has worked
through and with her faith in her daily life. In Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith, she presents her
thoughts on struggling as a single Christian mother to raise a son, deal with her parents and friends, living in this
world, and how she thinks about and approaches God. Her words are a treasure of simple faith and joy, and very
accessible. While everyone is encouraged to participate in the Common read this fall, we especially urge small
groups to read and discuss this book.
We are planning two discussion sessions on Traveling Mercies, let by Pr. Jim. They are scheduled for Sunday,
November 8th at 3PM and Sunday, November 15th at 3PM. Both sessions will be held in the Gathering upstairs at
Zion. Coffee and dessert will be provided. Come and explore with Pr. Jim the marvelous insights into faith that
Ann Lamott offers throughout her work!
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Adult Discipleship Core Ministry (cont.)
Fall Classes in Adult Education At Zion
“Women of Faith in the Bible” continuing through October 11
Our current adult education class on Sunday mornings focuses on the theme of “Women of Faith in the Bible.” The lives
and faith of Old Testament prophetesses such as Deborah and Miriam are being explored, and the exemplary life of
Ruth will be studied as well. Among the ancestors of Jesus, the Bible lists several notable women such as Tamar, Rahab, Bathsheba and Mary. All of these classes about women will be taught by women of Zion:
 October 4 Laura Berry will help us learn about Tamar, Rahab, Bathsheba and Mary
 October 11 Vera McEwen will discuss Ruth.
Come and learn about these women of faith in the Bible, and support the women of Zion as they teach! All classes at
9:30AM in Holtfreter Classroom A.
“Women of Faith in the Church” October 18—Nov. 22
Our second set of classes for the fall will focus on the theme of “Women of Faith in the Church.” This five week class
will examine the lives of five remarkable women, who over the history of the church lived lives of faith, despite hardships
and challenges. The life of the Roman martyr St. Perpetua and that of the medieval mystic Hildegarde of Bingen will be
explored, and by reading some of their writings we will gain an insight into their relationship with God and the people
around them. Another class will be devoted to Katie von Bora, whose life and faith were a bedrock for her husband,
Martin Luther. The life of service and devotion that the young Scottish missionary Mary Slessor lived in West Africa in
the late nineteenth century will be the focus of another class. In our final class we will turn to the career of Ruth Bell
Graham, who as the wife of evangelist Billy Graham, found herself shouldering much of the responsibility for raising her
family, taking care of her home, and helping to keep her husband up and running. All classes at 9:30AM in Holtfreter
Classroom A. Led by Ron Delph.
From Pastor Jim
Knowing Every Lamb by Name
Have you ever read or heard a story and weeks later you were still thinking about it? This happened to me and so this
month I want to share a story that has impacted my thoughts. This story is from a colleague in Connecticut who served
as a resident minister in Grand Canyon National Park. During his work there he got to know members of both the Hopi
and Navajo Native American tribes. This story comes from one of their storytellers:
There was an older Navajo sheep farmer whose neighbor's dogs kept getting out and killing his sheep (especially the
lambs). It got bad enough that he knew he had to do something. He figured that he had three options. The first, in true
American fashion, was to sue: bring a lawsuit and take his neighbor to court. His second option was to build a stronger
and higher fence around his grazing land so that the dogs could not get in (but he had a big plot of grazing land). So he
opted to go with option number three. He gave two small lambs to his neighbor's children. The lambs grew into sheep,
had other lambs, and the neighbor's family began to see the sheep not as an impersonal herd next door, but as something warm and fuzzy, something personal with individual traits with a history and names. Before long they got much
more careful about keeping their dogs in kennels and under control.
To most of us sheep look pretty much the same. But to a shepherd each sheep is individual. The shepherd knows them
by name. Isn’t it interesting that when we know someone by name it changes everything. This fall during Zion’s worship
we are being intentional about using name tags. We want to learn each other’s names. Your newest pastor wants to
learn your name and seeing it sure helps to learn them. Please take a moment as you come into worship to pick up
your name tag. If you don’t have one, let the office know and we will create one for you. We want to know you by name.
Not knowing someone by name has an effect on the world. The basis of prejudice and racism, rejection and persecution is this: reducing people to categories, making them abstractions, not knowing them as individuals, not calling them
by name. This depersonalizes them. In order to overcome prejudice, we must see people as individuals with a name
and history. Jesus recognized this, and in the gospels we see him once again dealing with people one-on-one, getting
to know them so that he can deal with their individual problems.
What are the lambs that we need to give or receive so that our eyes can be opened and we can see our neighbors who
are created in the image of God? Take time this month to learn someone’s name. Take time to reflect that God has given you His name and asks us to keep it holy (second commandment). Remember that you are known by name and
loved just as you are—a beloved child of God. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, John
10:14
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Mission Core Ministry
Grace in Action Update
[Ed. Note: Another in a continuing series about local, national and international missions supported by Mission Core Ministry.]
Have you ever run a marathon? If you have, you can relate to how we at Grace in Action have felt during the last four
months: running from one thing to the next, climbing to the top of one hill after another, all the way to the finish line this
September. After the most active summer yet for Grace in Action, we are in the resting station, counting our blessings,
and getting ready for the next race to start.
It all started at the beginning of June. We found ourselves with three weeks to do a few months worth of renovations on
the building that had been donated to us, using mostly manual labor. The community and partners rallied, and we were
able to make a building full of dust, debris, and half finished projects into a beautiful space for youth and families to both
be and do church. Our grand opening was June 20th, which involved over 120 people from as close as down the street
and as far away as California. We walked from room to room, the whole crowd following, and sprinkled each space with
holy water as we prayed God's breath of love and hope into each part of the building. John Martenson, Sr., who founded
the funeral home that the building used to be and donated the building to us, said it best when he shared these words:
“This was a place that represented death. Now it represents life.”
After all the excitement about the building, we took a deep breath, then plunged right into the next adventure: the ELCA
National Youth Gathering. Because of a grant from the Mission Investment Fund and support from you all at Zion Lutheran, 13 youth from Grace in Action were able to participate in both the Multicultural Youth Leadership Event and the
National Gathering. But they did so much more than participate. Six of those youth were busy everyday leading service
projects and screen print workshops for youth groups who came to the Grace in Action building for their service day.
Another five were busy every day selling t-shirts they had made themselves in front of Cobo Hall. By the time the week
was over, we were all exhausted, sunburned, and ready to sleep.
After the Gathering, we thought that the usual summer down time had finally arrived, a chance to recoup before the fall.
How wrong we were. During the first week of August, 30 elementary school age kids swarmed the Grace in Action building for the first ever joint Living Water Ministries/Grace in Action day camp. Kids from all over the neighborhood, many
who had never been to day camp before, spent five days singing, playing, praying, making beautiful works of art, meeting new friends, and learning together. Grace in Action Art Director Eva Leventer partnered with four counselors from
Living Water to make the week an amazing, art-infused experience.
Finally, just when we thought the finish was in sight, the last hill was revealed.
The Knight Foundation chose Stitching Up Detroit, our youth-run screen print
collective, to compete in a special challenge to win $20,000; the group with the
most votes would win. Right before Pastor John and Meghan left for vacation in
the middle of August, we launched a month long campaign to get out the vote
for Stitching Up Detroit. A month later, the campaign has just ended. We don't
know the exact number, but estimate that we received about 5,000 votes for
Stitching Up Detroit, partly in thanks to Zion and other congregations who got
the vote out. The youth determined that the money would go towards turning a
van into a mobile t-shirt print shop.
Whew! Tired yet? We certainly are! But fall is here, and with it, new exciting challenges and opportunities, including a
new liturgical/conversational Sunday afternoon service, plans for a huge mural on the side of our new building, guitar
and piano classes, and a big Halloween/Day of the Dead Celebration at the end of October.
We are excited for the many blessings that this marathon has led us through, including your partnership. We pray for
many blessings to you all at Zion this fall, and that God would continue to guide you in your ministry to the people of
Ann Arbor, and in your support of other ministries around the world.
- Pastor John and the Grace in Action Team
Lutheran World Relief
Blood Drive—Monday October 5
This month Zion will be sending off quilts and
health kits that were lovingly made and assembled by women of Zion. Each month during Activity Day, women gather to create items
that will remind others of God’s great love. We
thank them for their service and for their loving
gifts that touch so many with God’s amazing
love.
The next Zion-hosted American Red Cross blood drive is set for
Monday October 5 from 1—6:45PM. Please sign up on Sunday
morning
in
the
Welcome
Center
or
online
at
www.redcrossblood.org using the sponsor code “zionlutheran”.
You may also contact Deborah Weber at 734-662-7781 or Mary
Pearson at marpear@gmail.com. The need for blood is constant, and every donation does make a difference. Thanks for
giving!
8
Mission Core Ministry (cont.)
Gift of Life
This Advent season, Zion is supporting the ELCA Good Gifts program by designating the gift of
water. In past years, we have mostly designated animals of the barnyard. We are asking you to
consider designating your ELCA gift towards a water well. The cost of a well is $2,500 so we will
have to, as a congregation, get behind this project.
Clean water is one of the most powerful ways to change the world. Did you know that 1 out of 6
people drink unclean water? With each working well, as many as 500 families gain access to
clean, safe drinking water. Imagine the impact! Entire families have safe water to drink. Sanitation improves. Everyone
is healthier and stronger. Best of all, women and children who spent hours each day fetching water can reallocate their
time to school, work, and family.
I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me. Matthew 25:35
This year’s giving fair will begin on November 29th in Stellhorn Lounge. Please come to make your donation!
Thanksgiving Service
Turkeys for Sequoia Place
This year Zion is hosting the Ann Arbor Lutheran
Collaborative Thanksgiving on Tuesday November
24. This Thanksgiving service includes the Lutheran
congregations of: King of Kings, Trinity, Lord of Light
and Zion. Together we will plan and participate and
give thanks to God. Zion will also host a Thanksgiving meal for the homeless that evening and we will
need volunteers to help make the meal. Look for
more information in the November Tower.
Sequoia Place is the senior citizen home next door to
Peace Neighborhood Center established through the joint
efforts of members of our church, Trinity Lutheran, and
LSSM. Each year, Zion and Trinity alternate providing
(cooking, slicing and delivering) two 18 - 20 pound turkeys for Sequoia's annual resident Thanksgiving dinner.
This year, the date is Wednesday, November 18. If you
would like to help or if you have questions, please contact
Debbie Weber (662-7781, dweber45@aol.com).
An Invitation
11 DAYS IN THE STEPS OF MARTIN LUTHER
♦ JULY 11 – 21, 2016 ♦
Visiting Rhine Valley * Eisenach * Erfurt * Eisleben * Wittenberg Berlin * Dresden * Leipzig * Coburg * Nuremberg * Augsburg Munich * Neuschwanstein *
Oberammergau
Hosted By DR. WALTER & CAROLYN SCHMIDT
Celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation Movement where it all began…Visit Wartburg Castle in Eisenach…The Augustinian Monastery in Erfurt…Luther’s birthplace in Eisleben…The Castle Church in Wittenberg…Leipzig where Luther debated Johann Eck...Also visit Augsburg, Nuremberg and the historic cities of Berlin,
Dresden & Munich.
Only $3799 per person from Detroit (Air/land tour price is $3139 plus $660 government taxes/airline surcharges)
TOUR INCLUDES: Roundtrip Airfare from Detroit, $660 govt. taxes/airline surcharges, first class/select hotels,
most meals, services of a professional tour director, comprehensive sightseeing, hotel service charges/taxes, porterage & entrance fees.
For a brochure with complete details, contact: Rev. Walter A. Schmidt, 43 Coronado Drive, Jackson, MI 49201
Tel: 517-962-5055 (Home), 313-605-6795 (Cell), Email: pastors@feelc.org
9
Synod / LSSM News
News from Lutheran Social Services of Michigan (LSSM)
Lutheran Social Services of Michigan (LSSM), which is one of the largest faith-based social services agencies in the
country, provides support to a large range of needy clients in Michigan. LSSM programs focus on adoption, foster care,
refugee settlement, home care, disability assistance, and senior care ranging from residences to memory care. Sadly,
even this large range of programs cannot help all those in need, and LSSM is constantly trying to develop new programs and expand its services.
This requires funds that are not directly tied to specific services and that’s one place that we church members come in.
Through our donations of time, items and money, we provide LSSM with the extra funds needed to grow. Each month,
we try to give you information on LSSM programs and ways you can help. This month’s feature is on the Wayne County
Family Center.
The Wayne County Family Center in Westland is Michigan’s largest shelter for homeless families and pregnant single
women. It houses up to 100 persons in 25 rooms and provides childcare and meals. It is heavily used, especially in cold
weather, and lots of basic items are needed including bath towels, washcloths, pillows, bed sheets (twin size), laundry
detergent, and snacks (you can find an extensive list of needed items at - http://www.lssm.org/docs/defaultsource/children-and-families/wcfc-wish-list.pdf?sfvrsn=2). These items are needed on a regular basis because current
residents move out and new residents move in. You can help by donating any of these items (please make them new
and unopened, just the way you would like to get them), or by making a cash gift. Please contact the Wayne County
Family Center Director at (734) 721-0590 for more information.
Other News
Places of Faith
The Interfaith Round Table of Washtenaw County will host another series of visits and conversations in its “Places of
Faith” program. This October begins with three visits to Beth Israel Congregation giving others in our community the
opportunity to deepen understandings for other faith traditions.

Wednesday, 10/14, 7:30PM. Participants will meet at Beth Israel with a small group from the congregation. The
conversation will center around “what it is like to practice Judaism in Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County.”

Saturday, 10/24, 10AM.
gogue community.

Tuesday, 10/27, 6:30PM. Participants and the small group of Beth Israel congregants will share a meal together.
Conversations around the table will include follow-up from the first meeting, questions arising from the Sabbath service and additional issues that are appropriate in fostering understanding and mutual respect.
Participants will meet at Beth Israel to experience a Sabbath service with the syna-
Cost: $35 per person
Register: On line (www.irtwc.org) OR via email (gbrides@umich.edu)
Questions: call George Lambrides at 734-649-0107
NOTE: the next congregation to be visited is the Zen Buddhist Temple, dates – Nov. 10, 15 and 17. More information
will be forthcoming.
Thank You and Congratulations
Barbara and I want to thank
everyone who took the time
to attend our Sweet Conversations in August. We enjoyed getting to know so
many and hearing your stories.
- Pastor Jim
Thank-you for all your prayers, cards and encouragement while I have been here seeking medical care. I am doing better with pain meds and nerve blockers and have no
further tests until October. Therefore I am returning to Haiti to help supervise, and teach
our staff to do the rest of the required work to open schools the first Monday in Sept.
Then we both will be coming to Ohio the 1st of Oct. for the benefit and further medical
tests and care. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Thank you so much. May
God richly bless and strengthen you and yours daily.
Love & Prayers,
Mary Jane & Andris
10
OCTOBER CALENDAR
Thursday, October 1
12:00 PM Thursday Ladies Cards/Stellhorn Lounge
1:00 PM Samaritan Counseling/Counseling Office
1:30 PM The Bible/Omega Room
6:00 PM Zion Handbell Rehearsal/Sanctuary
7:30 PM Choir Rehearsal/Sanctuary
Friday, October 2
12:30 PM Women’s Friday Bridge/Stellhorn Lounge
2:00 PM Senior Luncheon Set-up/Kitchen & Hall
Saturday, October 3
12:00 PM Senior Luncheon/Piper Hall
Sunday, October 4
8:15 AM Traditional Worship/Sanctuary
9:30 AM Adult Discipleship/Holtfreter Room A
9:30 AM Bibleland/2nd Floor
9:30 AM Blended Worship/Sanctuary
9:30 AM C+C/Omega Room
9:30 AM JAM/Youth Room
11:00 AM Contemporary Worship/Sanctuary
11:00 AM Korean Baptist Church/Yeager Chapel
Monday, October 5
6:30 AM Men’s ChristCare/Sunday Spot
11:00 AM Blood Drive/Piper Hall
12:30 PM Women’s Monday Bridge/Stellhorn
Lounge
7:00 PM Ruth’s Small Group/Stellhorn Lounge
Tuesday, October 6
7:00 PM Life’s Lessons Book Club/Stellhorn
Lounge
Wednesday, October 7
10:00 AM Prayer Time/Yeager Chapel
10:00 AM Samaritan Counseling/Counseling Office
10:30 AM Staff Meeting/Pastor’s Office
6:00 PM Family Matters/Creation Station
6:45 PM Praise Band Rehearsal/Sanctuary
7:30 PM Al-Anon Meeting/The Gathering
7:30 PM Alcoholics Anonymous/Piper Hall
7:30 PM Al-a-teen Meeting/Alpha Room
Thursday, October 8
9:15 AM Mom’s Bible Study/Stellhorn Lounge
7:00 PM IQRIT Community Association/The Gathering
7:00 PM Mission Core Ministry/Pastor’s Office
Friday, October 9
1:00 PM CROP Walk/Rudolph School
Monday, October 12
6:00 PM Ann Arbor Fiber Arts/The Gathering
7:00 PM Weber’s Small Group/Stellhorn Lounge
Tuesday, October 13
9:00 AM Good Thyme Garden Club/The Gathering
2:00 PM IDAP Meeting/Omega Room
7:00 PM Five Miles More Rehearsal/Sanctuary
7:30 AM Synod Interviews/Garden Room
10:00 AM Flu Shot Clinic/Stellhorn Lounge
6:00 PM Family Matters Group/Creation Station
6:30 PM Endowment Meeting/Youth Room
7:30 PM Alcoholics Anonymous/Piper Hall
7:30 PM Al-a-teen Meeting/Alpha Room
Thursday, October 15
9:00 AM Sarah’s Circle/Stellhorn Lounge
1:00 PM Ruth’s Circle/Stellhorn Lounge
7:00 PM Adult Discipleship/Omega Room
7:30 PM Choir Rehearsal
Praise Band Rehearsal/Sanctuary
Al-Anon Meeting/The Gathering
Alcoholics Anonymous/Piper Hall
Al-a-teen Meeting/Alpha Room
9:15 AM Mom’s Bible Study/Stellhorn Lounge
6:00 PM Zion Handbells Rehearsal/Sanctuary
Friday, October 23
Saturday, October 24
Sunday, October 25—Reformation Sunday
12:15 PM Catechism/Youth Room
Monday, October 26
10:00 AM God’s Gardeners/Stellhorn Lounge
7:00 PM Weber’s Small Group/Stellhorn Lounge
Tuesday, October 27
6:30 PM Worship Core Ministry/Pastor’s Office
7:00 PM Five Miles More Rehearsal/Sanctuary
Friday, October 16
Sunday, October 18
12:15 PM Council Meeting/The Gathering
6:00 PM Grace Place/Youth Room
Monday, October 19
7:00 PM Ruth’s Small Group/Stellhorn Lounge
7:15 PM Building & Grounds Meeting/Creation
Station
Sunday, October 11
6:45 PM
7:30 PM
7:30 PM
7:30 PM
Tuesday, October 20
7:00 PM Council Meeting/The Gathering
11
7:30 PM Alcoholics Anonymous/Piper Hallo
7:30 PM Al-a-teen/Alpha Room
3:00 PM Oktoberfest set-up/Hall & Kitchen
Friday, October 30
5:00 PM Oktoberfest/Piper Hall
7:00 PM Youth Group Lock In/Youth Room
The Tower
NON-PROFIT ORG.
Zion Lutheran Church
1501 West Liberty
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103
Permit No. 436
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Return Service Requested
Date Sensitive Material
Please Deliver by
October 1, 2015
September Life Passages at Zion
BAPTISMS:
Callan Scott Shankland & Tucker Ray Shankland , parents Megan and Daniel Shankland
WEDDINGS:
Theresa Ann Badics & Andris Juris Bomis
FUNERALS:
Roberta Purdon (Internment in Memorial Garden)
NEW MEMBERS:
Staff
Elected Ministry Leaders
Congregation Council
President: Margie Reynolds (margiereynolds@comcast.net)
Vice-Pres: Lorin Cartwright (cartwril@gmail.com)
Secretary: Laura Berry (berry.laura@gmail.com)
Treasurer: Bob Bertrand (bobbertrand@yahoo.com)
At Large:
Christine Karshin (ckarshin@emich.edu)
Nick Kogleman (nkogelman@gmail.com)
Vickie Matthews (vickiematthews@comcast.net)
Connie McComb (cmccomb0822@comcast.net)
Mark Warwashana (whellieman@gmail.com)
Bob Thompson (mutant@umich.edu)
Core Ministries
Worship:
Welcome:
Adult Discipleship:
Young Discipleship:
Caring:
Missions:
Dale Eckart, Holli Bertram
Chris Karpinnen, Joanne Dence
Sonja Page, Felicia Leipzig
Tom Clifford, Ken Utsunomiya
Dianne Daily, Laura Girbach
Mark Gunderson, Layale Weinert
Support Ministries
Personnel:
Building & Grounds:
Financial Stewardship:
IT:
Diane Hunt, Dave Werner
Bill Lehmann, Jim Love
Nick Rogers, Lisa Rombes
Ray Vanderbok, David Anderson
Senior Pastor
Welcome Pastor
Director, Adult Discipleship
Finance Manager
James Debner
Michael Walters
Vacant
David Beck
Office Administrator
Director, Young Discipleship
Bibleland Coordinator
VBS Coordinator
Director of Choirs & Special Music
Organist
Contemporary Worship Leader
Sound Operator
Worship Media Coordinator
Resident Custodian
Diane Rinehart
Roger Santini
Nina Johnson
Jessica Rudy
Natalie Downs
Elgin Clingaman
Alison Hendricks
Tyler Dence
Eddie VanRiper
Chris LeVasseur
Weekend Custodian
Wedding Coordinator
Nursery Coordinator
Vacant
Vacant
Kaili Dence, Deborah Fagan
Email addresses for staff may be found at our website:
www.zlc-aa.org.
Office phone
12
994-4455

Tower 2015-10 - Zion Lutheran Church

Transcription

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