Thursday, August 27, 2009
In Our Community
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Ricky Hudnett, who on June 20, 2009 graduated from Nova S.W. University in Florida, with his M.B.A. He is also working at the University as the Assistant Director of the Master’s Program.
Ricky also recently became engaged on May 23, 2009 to Alicia Cook – a fall 2010 wedding is planned! Ricky is the son of Richard and Barbara Hudnett.
Congratulations on the birth of
Connor Logan Murphy, born on June 23, 2009. He joins siblings Angela, Erika, Alex, Olivia, Sara, and William. Mom and Dad are Damian and Sharon Murphy.
Eric Oberndorf will be deploying to Iraq shortly. Anyone who wishes to send him mail can do so in the following way(s). We’ve been notified by his father, Steve, to wait until the end of September to send anything. This APO address is good through the end of the year. Letters and cards sent to the APO address only need normal First Class postage stamps and can be mailed from any mailbox:
SSG Oberndorf, Eric
D CO 1-504th PIR ,
APO AE 09381
However, packages must be mailed from the post office and a customs form has to be completed. Packages also must have a specific return address (not the sender's) to comply with Army regulations. That address is Eric's permanent duty station and it is:
Oberndorf
D CO 1/504 PIR
Fort Bragg, NC 28310
ALCM Conference
In July, I attended a regional convention of The American Guild of Organists in Boston. An AGO convention is all about amazing concerts in amazing spaces. We heard many large pipe organs in historic churches, including a brass and organ concert at Trinity Church and a recital at the Christian Science Mother Church, which looks like something that belongs in the Emerald City! There were some interesting talks and workshops, including one on the music of Mendelssohn--a Jew whose family converted to the Lutheran faith!
An Association of Lutheran Church Musicians conference is more of a spiritual time for me. Our national convention this year was in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and we had a wonderful week! I always wish you could all experience the worship and the singing at these events. We had on average three worship services each day, along with concerts and
some great workshops. This year I found it to be mostly an affirmation of my work and relationship with Pastor Jim and you, the congregation. Thank you for supporting my professional memberships and attendance at these conferences. ~Scott Jones
Items Needed ~ Thank You!
Car
If you or anyone you know has a used car (in working condition) they are looking to donate, please contact pastor or the church office, as we do know people who are in need.
Refrigerator(s)
The church is in need of two refrigerators. Anyone looking to donate a good quality, usable full size refrigerator for our kitchen, or a small or “dorm” –sized refrigerator for the church office, please call the office.
Food Drive
During these difficult times, organizations that provide food often run short of needed supplies. We will continue to collect food as part of our offering during worship. Bring your non-perishable food items to worship with you, and leave them in the designated area in the narthex.
We were notified of the following by the Red Cross:
FOODS NEEDED:
Soups, Stews, Beans, Broths, Peanut Butter
THEY HAVE A SURPLUS OF:
Pasta, Pasta Sauce, Rice and Tuna
September Birthday, Anniversaries and Disciples
September Birthdays
3:Alexander Murphy
7:Leona Candura
9:Maura Cicci
10:Helen Blair
11:Angelika Achtiani
15:John Norton
20:Danny Murphy
24:Holly Wiede
26:Alicia Hudnett
27:Hedy Mayr
28:Susan Wilson
29:Janet Strachan
September Anniversaries
10:John & Evelyn Denkinger
11:John & Elfrieda Fenton
13:Ken & Dot Duke
Disciples
1:Ken Duke
2:Dot Duke
3:Richard Ebeling
4:Barbara Ebeling
5:Stacie Ebeling
7:Chelsea Ebeling
8:Elizabeth Ebeling
9:Jean Esparolini
10:Chris Esparolini
11:Irene Falk
12:John Fenton
14:Elfrieda Fenton
15:Julie Franchino
16:Pete Franchino
17:John Franchino
18:Martin Futyma
19:Betty Futyma
21:Susan Gage
22:Tom Gallo
23:Heather Gallo
24:Nicholas Gallo
25:Cathy Geiselmann
26:Erica Geiselmann
28:Ken Geiselmann
29:Irene Geiselmann
30:Jim Greengrove
Altar Flowers
Please note that we still have two dates available for anyone who would like to sponsor our altar flowers. If you would like to honor or remember someone, please fill out the chart outside of the church office or give us a call at (
973) 667-0256. The cost is $30.00
The available dates are September 20 and October 4, 2009.
Let's Take a Walk
The 2009 CROP Walk (SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18th AT 2PM.) and will begin and end at First Congregational Church, 40 South Fullerton Avenue, Montclair.
We will join neighbors from different faiths, cultures, and ages, walking together to take a stand against hunger in our world. Together we raise awareness and funds for international relief and development, as well as local hunger-fighting agencies. Some 2,000 communities across the country take part each year. CROP = Communities – Responding to – Overcome-Poverty!
The WALK will begin and end at First Congregational Church, 40 South Fullerton Avenue, Montclair, and is the usual 3 miles.
This year we are joining together in interfaith community CROP Hunger Walks around the theme “we walk because they walk.” Many of the walkers will be wearing “we walk because they walk” t-shirts, proclaiming their solidarity with the millions of neighbors around the world who have to walk to live. T-shirts and baseball-style caps will be available at a cost of $10.00 for adults.
WALKS help fight hunger and poverty around the world including the U.S. Up to 25% of what a CROP Walk raises can assist food banks, pantries, community gardens, and other local hunger-fighting initiatives. The total raised for the 2008 Essex Walk in Montclair was over $22,000 (the $20,000 goal was reached again) with $5,500 being returned for our 11 local food pantries in Montclair, Bloomfield, Kearny and Nutley.
The one and only meeting for the 2009 WALK will be Tuesday, September 8th and 7:30pm at First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 153 Park Street, Montclair. WALK envelopes, poster, flyers, t-shirts, etc. will be available for distribution.
Call (973) 744-6043 with any questions.
Volunteers Needed for the Fall Festival
If you would like to volunteer for helping at the Fall Festival on Sunday, September 20, 2009, please call the church office at (973) 667-0256. We need all kinds of help, starting with setup at 7am through cleanup starting at 2pm. Thanks.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
On The Calendar
Dive into the Book of Faith
Open the scripture. Join the conversation. Come, hear and learn once again the story of God and God’s people in a deep, meaningful and transformative way this summer. As part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s (ELCA) initiative that calls “the whole church to become more fluent in the first language of faith, the language of scripture, in order that we might live out our calling as people renewed, enlivened, empowered and sent by the Word.”
We enter into this conversation based on the promised that exploring the Bible deeply with others opens us to God working in and through us. God’s Word is life changing, church changing and world changing. As we come together around God’s Word, the Holy Spirit works to lay a promising and fruitful foundation for connecting Bible, life and faith.
This summer, we will start this journey to renewal in the power of God’s Word together as a congregation assembled to worship and in small groups. All in all, there will be three opportunities to gather, open scripture and join the conversation.
Between July 12 and August 30, the assigned readings take us into and through the Book of Ephesians. In Sunday worship, through songs, sermons and prayers, we will focus on that particular Book of Faith under the theme, God’s Extraordinary Church. We will pick up that study and add time for group discussion, prayer and support during on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m., following our weekly community dinner.
Finally, a number of people have expressed interest in learning more about how the Bible came to be our Book of Faith and to explore more about what we mean when we confess the Holy Scripture to be the Word of God. Join us on three Sunday afternoons in September as we Rediscover the Book the Faith, the Bible. What better way to go “back-to-school” than to get back into God’s Word. It will change your life.
To sign up for either one of these exciting studies, fill out the forms below and return them to the church office or e-mail the church office with your plans office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
God’s Extraordinary Church: Studies in Ephesians – July 12 – August 30
Mega-churches seem to catch everyone’s attention these days. Bigger appears to be better. The Letter to the Ephesians reminds us that God enables us to build a wondrous church beyond our wildest expectations (Eph. 3:19-20). Spiritual quality is always more important than worldly quantity when it comes to God’s heavenly design.
This book of faith is like a blueprint written to modern churches like ours, churches in transition. This series gives us the opportunity to experience divine guidance in our mission and ministry. As we rediscover God’s Word for our life and the life our church, we will discover again our passion for God’s purposes in the world through Jesus Christ. Come along. Open the Scripture. Join the Conversation.
Here are the topics we will be exploring in worship, study, conversation and prayer:
1. Are We Building in Love? Ephesians 1:3-14
2. Are We Building with Walls? Ephesians 2:11-22
3. Are We Building Beyond Measure? Ephesians 3:14-21
4. Are We Building as One? Ephesians 4:1-16
5. Are We Building Up? Ephesians 4:25-5:2 and 5:15-20
6. Are We Built to Withstand? Ephesians 6:10-20
Please return to church office or e-mail your request to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net
____ Yes, I am excited about exploring God’s amazing Word to God’s
extraordinary church, and
____ I/We plan to attend Thursday night. Please order ____ copies of the study guide for me.
____ I/We cannot attend the Thursday night study this time, but would like to follow along at home. Please order ____ copies of the study guide for me.
Name(s): __________________________________________
Rediscovering the Book of Faith – September 20 – October 4 after worship
Where did the Bible come from? The Christian Scripture contains sixty-six separate books, two testaments, and seven distinct types of literature. Yet, Christians the world over hold it as a single, bound volume we call “The Bible.”
This three-session study held on Sunday after worship explores how the Bible came to be our Book of Faith and what it means for our lives today. Together we will learn how, why and where the Old Testament and New Testament were created and explore how the Bible was put together, and examine the impact of the Reformation on our access to and understanding of scripture. Invite your friends and family to attend with you.
Here are the topics we will explore and discuss each week:
1. Rediscovering the Family Album of God’s People
2. Rediscovering the Good News of Jesus
3. Rediscovering God’s Gift of Grace
Please return to church office or e-mail your request to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net
____ Yes, I am excited to Rediscover the Book of Faith, and
____ I/We plan to attend Sunday after worship. Please order ____ copies of the study guide for me.
____ I/We cannot attend the Sunday sessions, but would like to follow
along at home. Please order ____ copies of the study guide for me.
____ I want like to invite a friend to attend with me, and I would like to church to help me.
Name(s): _____________________________________________________________________________________
Summer Music Conferences
Scott Jones will be in Boston for the Region Convention of the American Guild of Organists from June 30 through July 4. Scott is registrar for the 2011 Morristown Convention and will be meeting with the Boston Planning Committee. Locally, Scott serves on the Executive Board of the Metro NJ Chapter, is Membership Chair and publishes their Directory of Members.
In August, Scott will attend the National Convention of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Scott is Regional Vice President for the ALCM and he always looks forward to the workshops, concerts and worship services at these conferences.
Talent Time to Present Gypsy
The musical Gypsy will be presented at Bloomfield High School August 6-8 and 13-15 at 8:00 pm. General Admission tickets are $12/$10 for seniors and Students. The High School is at 160 Broad St. in Bloomfield and is air-conditioned! Emily Jones is producing the show as well as playing in the pit orchestra. Sarah Jones is performing in the cast.
As part of the Charles Seller Foundation, the Talent Time players have been presenting benefit performances since 1950. Each summer the members, who are in their mid-teens to late twenties, produce and perform a musical in which all the profits go to help a local person with a severe medical need.
Please call (862) 202-6943 for more information.
Summer Food Drive
During the summer months, organizations that provide food often run short of needed supplies. This summer, we continue to collect food as part of our offering during worship. Bring your non-perishable food items to worship with you, and take them forward during the gathering of our offering.
Discovery Canyon VBS is Just Around the Rim!
Our journey begins Sunday, August 16 and ends with a closing program on Friday, August 21. We will meet in the evening again, from 6:00-8:30p.m. Registration is $15.00 per person with a maximum of $30.00 per family. Registration forms will be available at church, by emailing the office at office.htlcnutley@verizon.net or by registering online at www.htlcnutley.com DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS AUGUST 2, 2009.
Mark your calendars and grab your hiking gear. This is a week filled with amazing Bible stories, Cavern Crafts, Sagebrush Storytelling and Red Rock Rhythm! Plan to join us and invite a friend. See you at the Canyon!
To help defray the cost of education and craft materials, we are asking for monetary donations. If you would care to make a donation, there will be donation cards in the church entry for different denominations totaling the amount estimated for the supplies. Please take one or more and enclose them with or attach them to your contribution, which can be put in the offering plate on Sundays through June, July and/or August. Please make sure to clearly mark the offering for “VBS”.
Can you help create our “Canyon Adventure?” We could use southwest/Native American blankets or fabric, pottery or baskets and blow-up or artificial cacti. Hiking gear like backpacks, hiking boots, a canteen and walking stick would be appreciated. Stuffed, resin or wooden “critters” for our daily themes would be great—desert lizard, owl, burro, praying mantis, and fox. Donations may be brought to church any time. Please identify them with your name so that they can be returned in August after VBS. Stay tuned for more announcements about craft preparation and church decorating. Thank you!
Annual Back To School Celebration - September 20
This year’s Fall Festival is still in the early planning stages, but we are working with the theme … Back-to-School; Back-to-Bible.
Not only will this year’s celebration mark the opening of Sunday school with lively worship (including a special blessing of the backpacks) food, games and prizes for all children, but we are planning on inviting all people, young and old to join us in rediscovering our Book of Faith (see article on page 4) this fall. To volunteer, call or e-mail Pastor Jim.
In Our Community
Relay For Life
On June 13th and 14th, Emily Jones participated in a Relay for Life in Mount Olive to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Although the rainy weather moved the event indoors, it did not dampen the spirits of the participants. Hundreds of people gathered to celebrate those who have survived cancer, remember those who have not, and fight back by supporting cancer research.
Mount Olive’s Relay brought in over $100,000 and that amount will continue to grow with post-event donations. Emily’s team was able to surpass their goal and raise over $2,800. Thanks to the members of Holy Trinity who donated to this cause and helped Emily’s team and the event raise such an amount.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Chelsea Cicci, who on June 16 won her second Paper Mill Playhouse “Rising Star” Award for choreography. The award was for her work on Bloomfield High School’s production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying back in February. Bloomfield was nominated for three awards, but only Chelsea won!
Congratulations on the birth of Charles William Ouellette, born on May 21, 2009. He is the grandson of Chris & Frank Siclari and joins sisters Jackie, 6 and Maddie, 3. Mom and dad are Michelle (Siclari’s daughter) & Bill.
Thank You!
Marilyn Kozak would like to thank everyone who has called and visited her father, Victor Smith. Victor has been moved to the Park Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Bloomfield. They are located at 23 Park Place, Bloomfield, N.J. 07003. (973) 743-7772.
Summer. Time for Lemonade
As we move into summer this month, we will re-start our after worship lemonade fellowship time. So, plan to linger a bit after worship to visit with friends both new and longstanding. We have two dates still available if you would like to host – they are August 9 and August 23rd. To follow is our schedule:
June 28: Lizzie & Holly Wiede (w/mom)
July 5: Kara Suttora & Diane Petchel
July 12: The Rubens Family
July 19: Gail & George Ceravolo
July 26: Audrey Stevens
August 2: Jayne Osborne
August 9: OPEN
August 16: The Jones Family
August 23: OPEN
August 30: Sally & Martin Mueller
September 6: Lizzie & Holly Wiede (w/mom)
Taking Root
Introducing the new ELCA Hunger Resource for children and youth,
Taking Root:
Hunger Causes
Hunger Hopes
Four Events in One!
1. Youth Summit
2. Children's Ministry Celebration
3. Hunger Events for Adults
4. Agape' Concert
FOR FULL DETAILS AND CALENDAR, GO TO:
www.njsynod.org
Pastor's Message
I am writing in the week between two wonderful celebrations of our life together in Christ Jesus: Last week (June 21) we witnessed Allison and Samantha’s baptism, and this week (June 28) we celebrate with Lizzie as she experiences Holy Communion in a deeper way. These two events coming in consecutive weeks remind us how our entire life flows from God’s grace in Word and Sacrament. Through Word and Sacrament God enlightens us, enlivens us and sustains us in a life of faith and love that comes from our connection to God and to each other.
In our baptism liturgy, the parents, sponsors and congregation promise to faithfully live out our faith and love for God together. We do this by gathering weekly in worship to hear the scriptures, God’s Word, and to participate in the holy supper. We do this by learning, teaching and putting into practice the Ten Commandments, the Apostle’s Creed and the Lord’s Prayer. We do this by nurturing the life of faith and prayer in ourselves and in others. We do this by proclaiming God’s reconciling love for the world in Christ Jesus in what we say and by what we do. We do this by joining together to care for others, to care for the world God made and to work for justice and peace.
Allison and Samantha and all the newly baptized are just beginning down this path of discipleship. Lizzie and others, like our college and high school graduates, are passing significant milestones along the way. Let’s cheer them on in the faith enthusiastically.
At the same time, these slower days of summer give us time to reflect on our own journey. Where are we spending our time and our energy? How might we be strengthened in our faith and love for God to more effectively live in witness to God’s grace and love for us? How might we encourage each other to grow in faith, hope and love.
In the letter to the Ephesians, the author prays that the church in Ephesus might receive from God “a spirit of wisdom and revelation” as they come to know Jesus more deeply. He prays this so that “with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of God’s power for us who believe” (Ephesians 1:17-19).
That is my prayer for all of us this summer. Please join me.
God's Gift For All Creation - Don't Bottle It Up!
The Youth Of The New Jersey Synod Challenge You To Take The Pledge!
In the fall of 2007, young people in the New Jersey Synod, ELCA began studying issues of water scarcity, plastics, pollution and water rights relating to bottled water. Out of this came an education and advocacy effort aimed at helping reduce the use of bottled water and strengthening safe public water systems both locally and globally - the Don’t Bottle It Up campaign!
We invite you to study, pray for, teach about, and advocate for
God’s precious gift of water for all creation, and, for earth’s sake,
Don’t Bottle It Up!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“…living creatures, and the air, soil and water that support them, face unprecedented threats. Many threats are global; most stem directly from human activity. Our current practices may so alter the living world that it will be unable to sustain life in the manner we know.”
"[A]s people of biblical faith, who live together in trust and hope, our primary motivation is the call to be God's caregivers and to do
justice...As members of this church, we commit ourselves to personal
lifestyles that contribute to the health of the environment."
Don’t Bottle it Up! Pledge (
Submit your pledge to the church office or at Worship – thank you)
I pledge to reduce my use of disposable bottled water, which means:
Opting for public tap water over bottled water; and
Advocating for healthy, strong public water systems both locally and globally.
Signed by: _________________________________
Here Are 10 Interesting Facts About Bottled Water
1. “An estimated 25 percent or more of bottled water is really just tap water in a bottle—sometimes further treated, sometimes not treated at all.” – Allaboutwater.org
2. Drinking bottled water is 1000 (one thousand!) times more expensive than drinking tap water.
3. “In an interesting study conducted by Showtime television, the hosts found that 75% of tested New York City residents actually preferred tap water over bottled water in a blind taste test.” – Allaboutwater.org
4. “Bottling and shipping water is the least efficient method of water delivery ever invented. The energy we waste using bottled water would be enough to power 190,000 homes. But refilling your water bottle from the tap requires no expenditure of energy, and zero waste of resources.” – PBS.org
5. “The Earth Policy Institute estimated that to make the plastic for the [water] bottles [consumed annually] burns up something like 1.5 million barrels of oil, enough to power 100,000 cars for a year.” – SeattlePI.com
6. “Nearly 90 percent of [water] bottles are not recycled.”
SeattlePI.com
7. “Bottled water is actually much less regulated than tap water. There are a number of studies in which we find arsenic, disinfection byproducts and bacteria in bottled water.” – SeattlePI.com, quoting Gina Solomon
8. 30 million water bottles are thrown away every day, and each one of them takes 1000 years to biodegrade. – emagazine.com.
9. “In one case, bottled water labeled as “Alaska Premium Glacier Drinking Water: Pure Glacier Water from the Last Unpolluted Frontier” was actually drawn from Public Water System #111241 in Juneau.” – emagazine.com.
10. Buying one gallon’s worth of bottled water is three times more expensive than buying one gallon of gasoline. –
July & August Birthdays, Anniversaries & Disciples
JULY BIRTHDAYS
1: Sydney Hess
3: Alex Murphy
4: Rory D’Agnolo
9: Meredith D’Agnolo
14: Verna Norton
18: David Reed
23: Ricky Hudnett
30: George Ceravolo
JULY ANNIVERSARIES
2: Al & Phyllis Weber
19: Scott & Debbie Jones
AUGUST BIRTHDAYS
3: Daniel Munoz
6: Aubrey D’Agnolo
10: Steve Oberndorf
16: Kay Ludwig
21: Greg Sekula
24: James Greengrove
25: Chao Lin
27: Dot Duke
29: Martin Mueller
30: Jared Lin
31: Robert Catelli
AUGUST ANNIVERSARIES
18: Frank & Chris Siclari
22: Gail & George Ceravolo
23: Evelyn & Steve Oberndorf
24: Dave & Sharon Reed
26: Martin & Sally Mueller
JULY DISCIPLES
1: Phyllis Weber
2: Kristian Wiede
3: Lizzy Wiede
4: Holly Wiede
6: Brad Wilson
7: Dot Wilson
8: Susan Wilson
9: Angelika Achtiani
10: Ira Achtiani
11: Chris Amlung
13: Anne Erwin
14: Andrea Ahrens
15: Richard J. Bacik
16: Erika Bacik
17: Richard K. Bacik
18: Ava Bacik
20: Joelle Bernhard
21: Matthew Bernhard
22: Madison Bernhard
23: Helen Blair
24: Kenneth Blair
25: David Cabral
27: Jennifer Cabral
28: Brandon Cabral
29: Emily Cabral
30: Leona Candura
31: John Catelli
August disciples will be in next months' newsletter
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Vacation Bible School
Discovery Canyon VBS is Just Around The Rim!
Our journey begins Sunday, August 16 and ends with a closing program on Friday, August 21. We will meet in the evening again, from 6:00-8:30p.m. Registration is $15.00 per person with a maximum of $30.00 per family. Registration forms will be available at church, by emailing the office at office.htlcnutley@verizon.net or by registering online at www.htlcnutley.com DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS
AUGUST 2, 2009.
Mark your calendars and grab your hiking gear. This is a week filled with amazing Bible stories, Cavern Crafts, Sagebrush Storytelling and Red Rock Rhythm! Plan to join us and invite a friend. See you at the Canyon!
To help defray the cost of education and craft materials, we are asking for monetary donations. If you would care to make a donation, there will be donation cards in the church entry for different denominations totaling the amount estimated for the supplies. Please take one or more and enclose them with or attach them to your contribution, which can be put in the offering plate on Sundays through June, July and/or August. Please make sure to clearly mark the offering for “VBS”.
Can you help create our “Canyon Adventure?” We could use southwest/Native American blankets or fabric, pottery or baskets and blow-up or artificial cacti. Hiking gear like backpacks, hiking boots, a canteen and walking stick would be appreciated. Stuffed, resin or wooden “critters” for our daily themes would be great—desert lizard, owl, burro, praying mantis, and fox. Donations may be brought to church any time. Please identify them with your name so that they can be returned in August after VBS. Stay tuned for more announcements about craft preparation and church decorating. Thank you!
Our journey begins Sunday, August 16 and ends with a closing program on Friday, August 21. We will meet in the evening again, from 6:00-8:30p.m. Registration is $15.00 per person with a maximum of $30.00 per family. Registration forms will be available at church, by emailing the office at office.htlcnutley@verizon.net or by registering online at www.htlcnutley.com DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS
AUGUST 2, 2009.
Mark your calendars and grab your hiking gear. This is a week filled with amazing Bible stories, Cavern Crafts, Sagebrush Storytelling and Red Rock Rhythm! Plan to join us and invite a friend. See you at the Canyon!
To help defray the cost of education and craft materials, we are asking for monetary donations. If you would care to make a donation, there will be donation cards in the church entry for different denominations totaling the amount estimated for the supplies. Please take one or more and enclose them with or attach them to your contribution, which can be put in the offering plate on Sundays through June, July and/or August. Please make sure to clearly mark the offering for “VBS”.
Can you help create our “Canyon Adventure?” We could use southwest/Native American blankets or fabric, pottery or baskets and blow-up or artificial cacti. Hiking gear like backpacks, hiking boots, a canteen and walking stick would be appreciated. Stuffed, resin or wooden “critters” for our daily themes would be great—desert lizard, owl, burro, praying mantis, and fox. Donations may be brought to church any time. Please identify them with your name so that they can be returned in August after VBS. Stay tuned for more announcements about craft preparation and church decorating. Thank you!
On The Calendar
Recession Relief: Soup (and more) Suppers!
Every Thursday night at 6:15 p.m., the people of Holy Trinity host a soup supper: a simple shared meal and an informal time for conversation, connection and support. This regularly meeting mealtime also gives us a simple way to share some of what we have -- food, faith, hope and love, a relationship with Jesus -- with people who may be going some difficult times. Sign up to share your favorite homemade soup. Sign up to bring something else -- go ahead and be creative -- to share with the group. But most important, invite your friends and neighbors to sit down and share a meal with you.
Open the Scripture. Join the Conversation.
Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. (after our soup supper), we gather to open the scripture and join in conversation with God and each other.
What is God doing in the the world? What is God doing in our lives? What is God saying to us as individuals, a community of faith, the world? What is the good news of God's kingdom? How is God sending us into the world? These are just some of the questions we ask as God engages us through God's word and the witness of the Holy Scripture. Come for the soup, but stay for the meal as we feast on God's word of life in Jesus Christ.
New Jersey Synod Assembly, June 5th and 6th
Pastor Jim, Scott Jones and Elaine Miller will attend the New Jersey Synod Assembly when it meets in East Brunswick June 5th and 6th. Look for a report in next month’s newsletter.
Worship in the Park, Sunday, June 7
Sunday, June 7, is Holy Trinity Sunday
and we will gather for worship again at Kingsland Park at 10:00 a.m. Invite a friend or two to join you in worshipping God and to stay with you for a picnic lunch, volleyball and softball after worship. Bring your own food and drinks, but you may want to bring some extra to share, too!
Please note: because of the long walk from the street to the gazebo at Kingsland Park, there will be a spoken service of Holy Communion (no music) at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity for those who are physically unable to attend the worship in the park.
Father’s Day
Fatherhood, like motherhood is a holy job, a divine calling. God has given dads a special role in our faith and life development. We are thankful for fathers, and according to many fathers, becoming a dad gave a new understanding to God's word and work in their lives. It’s fitting to begin our Father's Day celebration
(June 21) in worship together with our fathers. All fathers will get a special gift that day. Additionally, to honor dad you may even consider giving a special gift in thanksgiving for our fathers, to the Holy Trinity endowment (see form in this newsletter).
Arsenic & Old Lace
The Nutley High School Drama Club presents Arsenic and Old Lace at Nutley High School, Friday, June 5 and Saturday, June 6 at 8:00 PM. Sean Ulley, Miles Mueller and Danny Fornasa are involved in this production. Please call for tickets or more information: (201) 563-0080
Relay For Life
Emily Jones will again be participating in Mt. Olive’s Relay for Life this year on June 13th and 14th. Relay For Life is the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society at which teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Relays are an overnight event based on the idea that cancer never sleeps.
Relay For Life encourages people to:
• Celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer.
• Remember loved ones lost to the disease.
• Fight back to put an end to the disease.
If you are interested in donating to this cause, you can make a donation online http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09EA?pg=pfind&fr_id=14058, then search for “Emily Jones, or you can see Emily in person for a donation form.
Summer Choir: June 14, June 21
Are you a “singer in the pews?” For two weeks in June—June 14 and 21—we would like to invite you to be part of the choir for worship. Scott has selected easy and fun anthems that can be learned with minimal rehearsal. There will be short, 15 minute rehearsals immediately after worship on Sunday, May 31 and Sunday, June 14. You will also be asked to come to the choir room at 9:45 AM on the Sundays we sing. You may sing either week or both, but an RSVP would be appreciated so that we can plan accordingly. Please speak to Scott Jones, or call/email him at (973) 338-0267 or jsjones0601@verizon.net
Every Thursday night at 6:15 p.m., the people of Holy Trinity host a soup supper: a simple shared meal and an informal time for conversation, connection and support. This regularly meeting mealtime also gives us a simple way to share some of what we have -- food, faith, hope and love, a relationship with Jesus -- with people who may be going some difficult times. Sign up to share your favorite homemade soup. Sign up to bring something else -- go ahead and be creative -- to share with the group. But most important, invite your friends and neighbors to sit down and share a meal with you.
Open the Scripture. Join the Conversation.
Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. (after our soup supper), we gather to open the scripture and join in conversation with God and each other.
What is God doing in the the world? What is God doing in our lives? What is God saying to us as individuals, a community of faith, the world? What is the good news of God's kingdom? How is God sending us into the world? These are just some of the questions we ask as God engages us through God's word and the witness of the Holy Scripture. Come for the soup, but stay for the meal as we feast on God's word of life in Jesus Christ.
New Jersey Synod Assembly, June 5th and 6th
Pastor Jim, Scott Jones and Elaine Miller will attend the New Jersey Synod Assembly when it meets in East Brunswick June 5th and 6th. Look for a report in next month’s newsletter.
Worship in the Park, Sunday, June 7
Sunday, June 7, is Holy Trinity Sunday
and we will gather for worship again at Kingsland Park at 10:00 a.m. Invite a friend or two to join you in worshipping God and to stay with you for a picnic lunch, volleyball and softball after worship. Bring your own food and drinks, but you may want to bring some extra to share, too!
Please note: because of the long walk from the street to the gazebo at Kingsland Park, there will be a spoken service of Holy Communion (no music) at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity for those who are physically unable to attend the worship in the park.
Father’s Day
Fatherhood, like motherhood is a holy job, a divine calling. God has given dads a special role in our faith and life development. We are thankful for fathers, and according to many fathers, becoming a dad gave a new understanding to God's word and work in their lives. It’s fitting to begin our Father's Day celebration
(June 21) in worship together with our fathers. All fathers will get a special gift that day. Additionally, to honor dad you may even consider giving a special gift in thanksgiving for our fathers, to the Holy Trinity endowment (see form in this newsletter).
Arsenic & Old Lace
The Nutley High School Drama Club presents Arsenic and Old Lace at Nutley High School, Friday, June 5 and Saturday, June 6 at 8:00 PM. Sean Ulley, Miles Mueller and Danny Fornasa are involved in this production. Please call for tickets or more information: (201) 563-0080
Relay For Life
Emily Jones will again be participating in Mt. Olive’s Relay for Life this year on June 13th and 14th. Relay For Life is the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society at which teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Relays are an overnight event based on the idea that cancer never sleeps.
Relay For Life encourages people to:
• Celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer.
• Remember loved ones lost to the disease.
• Fight back to put an end to the disease.
If you are interested in donating to this cause, you can make a donation online http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09EA?pg=pfind&fr_id=14058, then search for “Emily Jones, or you can see Emily in person for a donation form.
Summer Choir: June 14, June 21
Are you a “singer in the pews?” For two weeks in June—June 14 and 21—we would like to invite you to be part of the choir for worship. Scott has selected easy and fun anthems that can be learned with minimal rehearsal. There will be short, 15 minute rehearsals immediately after worship on Sunday, May 31 and Sunday, June 14. You will also be asked to come to the choir room at 9:45 AM on the Sundays we sing. You may sing either week or both, but an RSVP would be appreciated so that we can plan accordingly. Please speak to Scott Jones, or call/email him at (973) 338-0267 or jsjones0601@verizon.net
Summer. Time for Lemonade
As we move into summer this month, we will re-start our after worship lemonade fellowship time. So, plan to linger a bit after worship to visit with friends both new and longstanding. You can also volunteer to host on one or more Sunday. A sign up sheet will be out during worship so you can sign up. You can also sign up to host by calling the church office.
Summer Food Drive
During the summer months, organizations that provide food to people in need often run short of needed supplies. This year, rising food costs have made the need that much more acute. Rising food prices means more people are in need of assistance. At the same time, the expense impact the ability of the organization to provide enough food.
This summer, we will once again collect food as part of our offering during worship. Bring your non-perishable food items to worship with you, and take them forward during the gathering of our offering. Thanks.
This summer, we will once again collect food as part of our offering during worship. Bring your non-perishable food items to worship with you, and take them forward during the gathering of our offering. Thanks.
Coupon Box
Please note that there is a coupon “swap” box in the Narthex for those of you that would like to donate or swap coupons.
Using Email to Make, Keep and Invite Friends.
Communication is vital to any relationship. That includes your relationship with others groups, teams and ministries going on at Holy Trinity. E-mail puts a powerful communication tool at our fingertips. Not only can we stay informed about news, events and happenings in the Holy Trinity community, but we are able to share that news with our friends as well by passing the information along to them or inviting them to be part of the Holy Trinity mailing list.
As postal rates continue to rise -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
As postal rates continue to rise -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
Pastor's Message
"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
The beginning of June. Summer nears. In fact, you may already, in these late days of springtime, be living a summer life. Stretching out and allowing the light and the warmth that come as gifts of the closer approaching sun to soothe your soul, to relax your anxious spirit. Enjoy, delight, savor these days as God's gracious call, God's setting of scene, mood and environment, God's creation of the perfect environment to invite you into a time of spiritual renewal and reawakening.
The songwriter who in the power of the Holy Spirit wrote Psalm 46 reminds us that our peace, our security, our prosperity and our health come from God. God is our refuge and our strength. Though all the worlds are in turmoil -- the world of nature, the world of politics and the world of economics -- God is our refuge. In God's kingdom, we find stability and security. From deep, hidden springs and rivers, God brings forth new life and sustains us in the middle of all these threats and dangers. Joined to Jesus in his death and resurrection through baptism and citizens of God's holy city, God invites us to stop, to rest, to relax and to witness as He brings peace and salvation to the world through Jesus Christ: "Be still and know that I am God."
Here we find wonderful counsel as we anticipate our coming summer rest and vacations. Come, rest in God's love for you. Come, enjoy new life in God's abiding presence. Come, re-center your life in water and God's word. Come, and worship the God who raised Jesus from the dead and who has promised to be your life and salvation.
How? Well, maybe we could start by re-imagining our summer routines. As we enjoy peaceful times outdoors -- in our yards, down the shore, time in the sun, on the water -- enter into contemplative prayer. Clear your mind to be aware of God's presence in your life. Looking for a summer read? Re-discover God's story in the Bible. You will find a story of romance in the book of Ruth. The story of political intrigue and rivalry in First and Second Samuel. A thriller in the books of Exodus and Esther. Wit, wisdom and inspiration for self-improvement in Proverbs and other wisdom writings. The story of God's love incarnate in the story of Jesus in Gospel's. And what would summer be without getting together with friends in a spirit of thanksgiving, for fellowship for a meal. Well, come on over to Holy Trinity. We meet every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. and every Thursday evening at 6:15 and 7 p.m. Stop by and bring everyone you know. Everyone is welcome.
The beginning of June. Summer nears. In fact, you may already, in these late days of springtime, be living a summer life. Stretching out and allowing the light and the warmth that come as gifts of the closer approaching sun to soothe your soul, to relax your anxious spirit. Enjoy, delight, savor these days as God's gracious call, God's setting of scene, mood and environment, God's creation of the perfect environment to invite you into a time of spiritual renewal and reawakening.
The songwriter who in the power of the Holy Spirit wrote Psalm 46 reminds us that our peace, our security, our prosperity and our health come from God. God is our refuge and our strength. Though all the worlds are in turmoil -- the world of nature, the world of politics and the world of economics -- God is our refuge. In God's kingdom, we find stability and security. From deep, hidden springs and rivers, God brings forth new life and sustains us in the middle of all these threats and dangers. Joined to Jesus in his death and resurrection through baptism and citizens of God's holy city, God invites us to stop, to rest, to relax and to witness as He brings peace and salvation to the world through Jesus Christ: "Be still and know that I am God."
Here we find wonderful counsel as we anticipate our coming summer rest and vacations. Come, rest in God's love for you. Come, enjoy new life in God's abiding presence. Come, re-center your life in water and God's word. Come, and worship the God who raised Jesus from the dead and who has promised to be your life and salvation.
How? Well, maybe we could start by re-imagining our summer routines. As we enjoy peaceful times outdoors -- in our yards, down the shore, time in the sun, on the water -- enter into contemplative prayer. Clear your mind to be aware of God's presence in your life. Looking for a summer read? Re-discover God's story in the Bible. You will find a story of romance in the book of Ruth. The story of political intrigue and rivalry in First and Second Samuel. A thriller in the books of Exodus and Esther. Wit, wisdom and inspiration for self-improvement in Proverbs and other wisdom writings. The story of God's love incarnate in the story of Jesus in Gospel's. And what would summer be without getting together with friends in a spirit of thanksgiving, for fellowship for a meal. Well, come on over to Holy Trinity. We meet every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. and every Thursday evening at 6:15 and 7 p.m. Stop by and bring everyone you know. Everyone is welcome.
In Our Community
In Memory…Irene Wahl, 1914 - 2009
Irene Wahl, 94, passed away on May 2, 2009, in Bountiful, Utah after living a long and prosperous life. Irene was raised in Bay Ridge Brooklyn, where music and church were an important part of her family’s life. She learned to play the piano at a young age, and she and her best friend Ruth (Hansen) Winther, preformed in many shows and musicals. They even had the opportunity and performed for the King and Queen of Norway while the royal couple was touring the United States.
After graduating from high school, Irene worked in a bank in New York City. It was there that she met her husband, Emil C. Wahl. Emil and Irene moved to Nutley, New Jersey, where they started a family. She attended Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir. She was a faithful member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Nutley, New Jersey, where she served as President of the Women’s Group and on many committees with her friend Helen Blair.
After health issues, Irene moved to Utah, where she spent six happy years at Country Care Assisted Living Facility in Farmington, Utah.
Irene is survived by her two sons, Allen (Judith Cashman) and Raymond (Shana); two grandsons, Daniel and Michael, and one great granddaughter, Lily Ann Griggs. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother and protector, Harry, and her devoted husband Emil.
A gathering to celebrate Irene’s life will be held sometime in the summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Fund, 158 Vreeland Avenue, Nutley, NJ 07110.
Condolences may be shared at www.lindquistmortuary.com
Thank You!
Once again this years’ Aids Walk New York (AWNY) was a big success. Over 45,000 people participated and even in the midst of a tough economy raised more than $5,600,000. Funds raised from the walkathon go to numerous programs and educational services to support people living with HIV/AIDS, and to over 60 other tri-state area AIDS organizations. Thanks to the generosity of the Holy Trinity family Nancy and Tony Maguire were again able to raise over $1000. Donations can still be made for this cause. Checks should be payable to AWNY and can be given to Nancy or Tony anytime. You can also mail your check to 26 Parsons Ct., Mahwah, NJ 07430. If you would like more information please call them at (201) 934-9366. You can also visit www.aidswalk.net. ~ Nancy Maguire
Congratulations!
It is with great joy that we announce the arrival of twins Samantha and Allison Mattis, daughters of Bob and Kareen (Ayotte) Mattis. Maternal grandparents are Gerry and Nancy Ayotte. The twins will be baptized at Holy Trinity on Father’s Day, June 21.
Congratulations on the engagement of Cathy Geiselmann to Mike Palamara. They will be married in 2010!
Congratulations and our very best wishes to our graduates! Graduating from Nutley High School are Robert Catelli, Danny Fornasa, Brian Johnson, Miles Mueller and Sean Ulley. Robert Kozak is graduating from Paramus Catholic and plans to join the Marines. Gentlemen—please keep in touch and we will keep you in our prayers! Send us your email addresses, let us know your future plans and how you are doing.
Irene Wahl, 94, passed away on May 2, 2009, in Bountiful, Utah after living a long and prosperous life. Irene was raised in Bay Ridge Brooklyn, where music and church were an important part of her family’s life. She learned to play the piano at a young age, and she and her best friend Ruth (Hansen) Winther, preformed in many shows and musicals. They even had the opportunity and performed for the King and Queen of Norway while the royal couple was touring the United States.
After graduating from high school, Irene worked in a bank in New York City. It was there that she met her husband, Emil C. Wahl. Emil and Irene moved to Nutley, New Jersey, where they started a family. She attended Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir. She was a faithful member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Nutley, New Jersey, where she served as President of the Women’s Group and on many committees with her friend Helen Blair.
After health issues, Irene moved to Utah, where she spent six happy years at Country Care Assisted Living Facility in Farmington, Utah.
Irene is survived by her two sons, Allen (Judith Cashman) and Raymond (Shana); two grandsons, Daniel and Michael, and one great granddaughter, Lily Ann Griggs. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother and protector, Harry, and her devoted husband Emil.
A gathering to celebrate Irene’s life will be held sometime in the summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Fund, 158 Vreeland Avenue, Nutley, NJ 07110.
Condolences may be shared at www.lindquistmortuary.com
Thank You!
Once again this years’ Aids Walk New York (AWNY) was a big success. Over 45,000 people participated and even in the midst of a tough economy raised more than $5,600,000. Funds raised from the walkathon go to numerous programs and educational services to support people living with HIV/AIDS, and to over 60 other tri-state area AIDS organizations. Thanks to the generosity of the Holy Trinity family Nancy and Tony Maguire were again able to raise over $1000. Donations can still be made for this cause. Checks should be payable to AWNY and can be given to Nancy or Tony anytime. You can also mail your check to 26 Parsons Ct., Mahwah, NJ 07430. If you would like more information please call them at (201) 934-9366. You can also visit www.aidswalk.net. ~ Nancy Maguire
Congratulations!
It is with great joy that we announce the arrival of twins Samantha and Allison Mattis, daughters of Bob and Kareen (Ayotte) Mattis. Maternal grandparents are Gerry and Nancy Ayotte. The twins will be baptized at Holy Trinity on Father’s Day, June 21.
Congratulations on the engagement of Cathy Geiselmann to Mike Palamara. They will be married in 2010!
Congratulations and our very best wishes to our graduates! Graduating from Nutley High School are Robert Catelli, Danny Fornasa, Brian Johnson, Miles Mueller and Sean Ulley. Robert Kozak is graduating from Paramus Catholic and plans to join the Marines. Gentlemen—please keep in touch and we will keep you in our prayers! Send us your email addresses, let us know your future plans and how you are doing.
Stewardship Strengthens
Stewardship strengthens our relationship with Jesus
During summer, many of us are blessed to enjoy some time away on vacation. What a blessing! What a gift! While we are away, whether we travel near or far, remember to give thanks for all of God's good gifts. Also, remember to continue to give generously to the mission and ministry of Holy Trinity throughout the summer.
The important work of God's mission continues during the summer months, especially as we lead up to our Vacation Bible School in August. If you find yourself with more time during the summer, ask yourself how you can use that time to share the good news of Jesus; to lead others in overcoming barriers; to guide others into a relationship with Jesus and his community of disciples. How might you go about doing that kind of work this summer? Share with the people of Holy Trinity what you are doing in mission this summer. E-mail pastor.htlcnutley@verizon.net to share your story.
During summer, many of us are blessed to enjoy some time away on vacation. What a blessing! What a gift! While we are away, whether we travel near or far, remember to give thanks for all of God's good gifts. Also, remember to continue to give generously to the mission and ministry of Holy Trinity throughout the summer.
The important work of God's mission continues during the summer months, especially as we lead up to our Vacation Bible School in August. If you find yourself with more time during the summer, ask yourself how you can use that time to share the good news of Jesus; to lead others in overcoming barriers; to guide others into a relationship with Jesus and his community of disciples. How might you go about doing that kind of work this summer? Share with the people of Holy Trinity what you are doing in mission this summer. E-mail pastor.htlcnutley@verizon.net to share your story.
Our Town Needs Your Help
With the economic downturn continuing, the needs of Nutley citizens grows. Use your gifts of time and talent to “connect one to many” by considering these volunteer opportunities:
Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB):
This increasingly valuable town resource would like to expand its’ current operating schedule. To make this possible, the NFSB needs several volunteers from 11:00am until 3:00pm on the second Saturday of each month. At least 3 people are required, but more will allow the NFSB to rotate responsibility. Those that are interested in volunteering should call Jolinda Griwert, (Co-Director, NFSB) at (973) 667-6322 after 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.
Nutley Red Cross (NRC):
Current programs in need of assistance include:
•Senior transportation: drivers offer one morning or afternoon per week transporting seniors to medical appointments in Nutley and neighboring towns.
•Food pantry: pack food bags for families, weekdays and weekends.
•General office assistance: answering phones, make appointments and distribute food bags, one morning or one afternoon each week.
•Blood drives: greet and sign in donors and operate the coffee table, the third Tuesday of each month from 3pm – 8pm.
Please let us know if you would like to volunteer – the Church Office has the Volunteer Applications for the Red Cross. Thank you.
Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB):
This increasingly valuable town resource would like to expand its’ current operating schedule. To make this possible, the NFSB needs several volunteers from 11:00am until 3:00pm on the second Saturday of each month. At least 3 people are required, but more will allow the NFSB to rotate responsibility. Those that are interested in volunteering should call Jolinda Griwert, (Co-Director, NFSB) at (973) 667-6322 after 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.
Nutley Red Cross (NRC):
Current programs in need of assistance include:
•Senior transportation: drivers offer one morning or afternoon per week transporting seniors to medical appointments in Nutley and neighboring towns.
•Food pantry: pack food bags for families, weekdays and weekends.
•General office assistance: answering phones, make appointments and distribute food bags, one morning or one afternoon each week.
•Blood drives: greet and sign in donors and operate the coffee table, the third Tuesday of each month from 3pm – 8pm.
Please let us know if you would like to volunteer – the Church Office has the Volunteer Applications for the Red Cross. Thank you.
June Birthdays, Anniversaries and Disciples
Birthdays
1:Scott Jones, Joyce Lin
4:Pastor Jim Krombholz
6:Chelsea Cicc
8:Ken Geiselmann, Sean Ulley
9:Ava Bacik
10:Ellen Oberndorf
15:Jakob Krombholz
18:Ann Erwin
26:Samantha Hess
28:Luke Krombholz
Anniversaries
4:Richard & Erika Bacik
14:alex & Aida Rubens
22:James & Dorothy Greengrove
23:Ed & Evelyn Cordes
26:John & Verna Norton
28:Chris & Nancy Duhm
Disciples
Each day of the week except Sunday has the name of a person in this community. Please remember that person in your prayers that day.
1:Jeannette Rusignuolo
2:Gloria Ryden
3:Teresa Scalcione
4:Doris Schulz
5:Edith Schulz
6:Greg Sekula
8:Ruth Sekula
9:Frank Siclari
10:Chris Siclari
11:Victor Smith
12:Audrey Stevens
13:Larry Stevens
15:Tom Stevens
16:Jan Strachan
17:Janet Strachan
18:Michael Suttora
19:Kara Suttora
20:Benjamin Suttora
22:Jack Suttora
23:Elaine Tanimura
24:Richard Ulley
25:Susan Ulley
26:Sean Ulley
27:David Van Houten
29:Grace Viola
30:Al Weber
1:Scott Jones, Joyce Lin
4:Pastor Jim Krombholz
6:Chelsea Cicc
8:Ken Geiselmann, Sean Ulley
9:Ava Bacik
10:Ellen Oberndorf
15:Jakob Krombholz
18:Ann Erwin
26:Samantha Hess
28:Luke Krombholz
Anniversaries
4:Richard & Erika Bacik
14:alex & Aida Rubens
22:James & Dorothy Greengrove
23:Ed & Evelyn Cordes
26:John & Verna Norton
28:Chris & Nancy Duhm
Disciples
Each day of the week except Sunday has the name of a person in this community. Please remember that person in your prayers that day.
1:Jeannette Rusignuolo
2:Gloria Ryden
3:Teresa Scalcione
4:Doris Schulz
5:Edith Schulz
6:Greg Sekula
8:Ruth Sekula
9:Frank Siclari
10:Chris Siclari
11:Victor Smith
12:Audrey Stevens
13:Larry Stevens
15:Tom Stevens
16:Jan Strachan
17:Janet Strachan
18:Michael Suttora
19:Kara Suttora
20:Benjamin Suttora
22:Jack Suttora
23:Elaine Tanimura
24:Richard Ulley
25:Susan Ulley
26:Sean Ulley
27:David Van Houten
29:Grace Viola
30:Al Weber
Father's Day Contributions to the Endowment Fund
Three times a year, we encourage the people of Holy Trinity to make gifts to the Endowment Fund in honor of their parents and others through whom God has worked to build faith – Mother’s Day, All Saints Day, and Father’s Day. The name of the donor and the person honored in the gift will be included in the bulletin on these special days. Our Endowment Fund is a vital ongoing and multiplying source of support for our current mission and ministry, but more than that, your gift to the fund is invested; it grows to bear fruit in support of God’s future work through this congregation.
Here is an opportunity for all people of Holy Trinity to participate in the future effort of God’s mission. If you would like to make a gift to the Endowment Fund, please use the tear-off at the bottom of this sheet and include it with your check made out to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Fund.
2009 Father’s Day Gift to the Endowment Fund of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Name: ____________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________
Amount: ___________
Relationship:______________________
Name of person(s) to be honored/remembered:
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
Name of person(s) giving the gift:
______________________________
Please leave this sheet and offering in the offering plate, or call the office at 973-667-0256 to make other arrangements.
Here is an opportunity for all people of Holy Trinity to participate in the future effort of God’s mission. If you would like to make a gift to the Endowment Fund, please use the tear-off at the bottom of this sheet and include it with your check made out to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Fund.
2009 Father’s Day Gift to the Endowment Fund of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Name: ____________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________
Amount: ___________
Relationship:______________________
Name of person(s) to be honored/remembered:
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
Name of person(s) giving the gift:
______________________________
Please leave this sheet and offering in the offering plate, or call the office at 973-667-0256 to make other arrangements.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
On the Calendar
Recession Relief: Soup (and more) Suppers!
Every Thursday night at 6:15 p.m., the people of Holy Trinity host a soup supper: a simple shared meal and an informal time for conversation, connection and support. This regularly meeting mealtime also gives us a simple way to share some of what we have -- food, faith, hope and love, a relationship with Jesus -- with people who may be going some difficult times.
Sign up to share your favorite homemade soup. Sign up to bring something else -- go ahead and be creative -- to share with the group. But most important, invite your friends and neighbors to sit down and share a meal with you.
Open the Scripture. Join the Conversation.
Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. (after our soup supper), we gather to open the scripture and join in conversation with God and each other. What is God doing in the the world? What is God doing in our lives? What is God saying to us as individuals, a community of faith, the world? What is the good news of God's kingdom? How is God sending us into the world? These are just some of the questions we ask as God engages us through God's word and the witness of the Holy Scripture. Come for the soup, but stay for the meal as we feast on God's word of life in Jesus Christ.
Motherhood: A Holy Calling
Sunday, May 10, is Mother's Day. God has called us to various walks of life and to live out the Gospel through a variety of roles we play in relationship with others. To be "mother" is not only a biological event, it is a divine calling. What better way to honor Mom and all the other mother-figures that God has brought into our life than in our worship at 10 a.m. We will include a special blessing for all mothers that Sunday. Mom's invite your children to join you in worship before they take you out for lunch. Children, invite Mom to worship with you as part of the special day you have planned for her.
Women of the ELCA
Our next WELCA meeting will be Wednesday,
May 13 at 7:30 PM. The meeting will be held at Julie Franchino’s house. Please call Julie at (973) 667-8492 to let her know you will be attending.
Pentecost, Sunday, May 31
It’s Pentecost Sunday, the day we remember how God poured out the Holy Spirit on Jesus’ disciples and empowered the church for God’s mission. On the first Pentecost the Bible tells us that all the disciples were gathered in one place when the Holy Spirit blew through. Mark your calendar and invite your friends to join you for this festive worship. Let’s see what happens this year. Remember to wear red! (please see the order form for geraniums on page 13).
Worship in the Park, Sunday, June 7
Sunday, June 7, is Holy Trinity Sunday
and we will gather for worship again at Kingsland Park at 10:00 a.m. Invite a friend or two to join you in worshipping God and to stay with you for a picnic lunch, volleyball and softball after worship. Bring your own food and drinks, but you may want to bring some extra to share, too!
Please note: because of the long walk from the street to the gazebo at Kingsland Park, there will be a spoken service of Holy Communion (no music) at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity for those who are physically unable
to attend the worship in the park.
Discovery Canyon VBS is just around the rim! Our journey begins Sunday, August 16 and ends with a closing program on Friday, August 21. We will meet in the evening again, from 6:00-8:30 PM. The Registration fee is $15.00 per person (maximum is $30.00 per family). Registration forms will be available at church – please pick up after worship or call the office) There will also be a track for teens and adults, including study/discussion time with Pastor Jim.
Mark your calendars and grab your hiking gear. This is a week filled with amazing Bible stories, Cavern Crafts, Sagebrush Storytelling and Red Rock Rhythm! Plan to join us and invite a friend. See you at the Canyon!
First Communion Class May 21 at 5 p.m.
Pastor is offering a "first-communion" class for children and families in 2nd grade, for older children who have not had any formal first communion instruction, for families who like to review what the Lord's Supper means and what God does through it. The first class will meet on Thursday, May 21, at 5 p.m. At this class we will also discuss dates and plans for the celebrations of "first" Holy Communion. Plan to stay for soup after class.
Choral Vespers
Scott Jones is singing Bach’s Cantata, Wer Da Gläubet Und Getauft Wird, For Ascension Day, at Grace Lutheran Church, Teaneck on Thursday, May 21, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.. The choir is under the direction of Carol Weber and will be accompanied by a professional orchestra. An offering will be received.
Grace Lutheran, 1200 River Rd., Teaneck, NJ 07666. GraceLutheranTeaneck.org
Every Thursday night at 6:15 p.m., the people of Holy Trinity host a soup supper: a simple shared meal and an informal time for conversation, connection and support. This regularly meeting mealtime also gives us a simple way to share some of what we have -- food, faith, hope and love, a relationship with Jesus -- with people who may be going some difficult times.
Sign up to share your favorite homemade soup. Sign up to bring something else -- go ahead and be creative -- to share with the group. But most important, invite your friends and neighbors to sit down and share a meal with you.
Open the Scripture. Join the Conversation.
Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. (after our soup supper), we gather to open the scripture and join in conversation with God and each other. What is God doing in the the world? What is God doing in our lives? What is God saying to us as individuals, a community of faith, the world? What is the good news of God's kingdom? How is God sending us into the world? These are just some of the questions we ask as God engages us through God's word and the witness of the Holy Scripture. Come for the soup, but stay for the meal as we feast on God's word of life in Jesus Christ.
Motherhood: A Holy Calling
Sunday, May 10, is Mother's Day. God has called us to various walks of life and to live out the Gospel through a variety of roles we play in relationship with others. To be "mother" is not only a biological event, it is a divine calling. What better way to honor Mom and all the other mother-figures that God has brought into our life than in our worship at 10 a.m. We will include a special blessing for all mothers that Sunday. Mom's invite your children to join you in worship before they take you out for lunch. Children, invite Mom to worship with you as part of the special day you have planned for her.
Women of the ELCA
Our next WELCA meeting will be Wednesday,
May 13 at 7:30 PM. The meeting will be held at Julie Franchino’s house. Please call Julie at (973) 667-8492 to let her know you will be attending.
Pentecost, Sunday, May 31
It’s Pentecost Sunday, the day we remember how God poured out the Holy Spirit on Jesus’ disciples and empowered the church for God’s mission. On the first Pentecost the Bible tells us that all the disciples were gathered in one place when the Holy Spirit blew through. Mark your calendar and invite your friends to join you for this festive worship. Let’s see what happens this year. Remember to wear red! (please see the order form for geraniums on page 13).
Worship in the Park, Sunday, June 7
Sunday, June 7, is Holy Trinity Sunday
and we will gather for worship again at Kingsland Park at 10:00 a.m. Invite a friend or two to join you in worshipping God and to stay with you for a picnic lunch, volleyball and softball after worship. Bring your own food and drinks, but you may want to bring some extra to share, too!
Please note: because of the long walk from the street to the gazebo at Kingsland Park, there will be a spoken service of Holy Communion (no music) at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity for those who are physically unable
to attend the worship in the park.
Discovery Canyon VBS is just around the rim! Our journey begins Sunday, August 16 and ends with a closing program on Friday, August 21. We will meet in the evening again, from 6:00-8:30 PM. The Registration fee is $15.00 per person (maximum is $30.00 per family). Registration forms will be available at church – please pick up after worship or call the office) There will also be a track for teens and adults, including study/discussion time with Pastor Jim.
Mark your calendars and grab your hiking gear. This is a week filled with amazing Bible stories, Cavern Crafts, Sagebrush Storytelling and Red Rock Rhythm! Plan to join us and invite a friend. See you at the Canyon!
First Communion Class May 21 at 5 p.m.
Pastor is offering a "first-communion" class for children and families in 2nd grade, for older children who have not had any formal first communion instruction, for families who like to review what the Lord's Supper means and what God does through it. The first class will meet on Thursday, May 21, at 5 p.m. At this class we will also discuss dates and plans for the celebrations of "first" Holy Communion. Plan to stay for soup after class.
Choral Vespers
Scott Jones is singing Bach’s Cantata, Wer Da Gläubet Und Getauft Wird, For Ascension Day, at Grace Lutheran Church, Teaneck on Thursday, May 21, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.. The choir is under the direction of Carol Weber and will be accompanied by a professional orchestra. An offering will be received.
Grace Lutheran, 1200 River Rd., Teaneck, NJ 07666. GraceLutheranTeaneck.org
Pastor's Message
"I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father." John 15:15
We like to talk about the life of discipleship as being the life of a servant -- a servant of Christ, a servant of our neighbor. That conversation has its place, but let me direct your attention to another way of living out our life together in God's mission, not as servants, but as friends. Meditate a while on the difference. Servants have masters. Servants obey orders and commands. Servants are part of a hierarchy. Friends, however, are equals. Friends are bound by and respond to each other out of love and respect. To work together as friends implies working with common knowledge and purpose. In many ways, I think, we might better embody the good news of God's kingdom through friendship rather than service.
Over the past few months, we have had a number of conversations about what we can do as individuals and as a community to respond to people who have lost their job, been overwhelmed by debt or have in other ways been adversely effected by current economic conditions. It seems that best answer we came up with was for us to be a friend. We are continuing our soup suppers on Thursday night so that we can gather as friends and make new friends. By being friends, we announce and live God's friendship with us.
Friendship also lies at the heart of our vision for ministry here at Holy Trinity. The hierarchy is gone. We are all free to live out the good news that Jesus Christ has heard from the Father, that Jesus Christ embodied, that Jesus Christ has revealed to us. Gone are the days when the church council played gate-keeper and permission-giver. Gone are the days when committees made decisions and then looked for servants to march out to do their wishes. Gone are the days when the pastor, council president or committee chair told everyone how and where to serve. Today, at Holy Trinity, we encourage all people at Holy Trinity to meet together and to live out their calling to be Jesus' disciples and Jesus' friends in creative ways, according their gifts, abilities and interests. We share a particular vision of a way to embody the mission God in this place: to share the good news of the God's kingdom, to overcome barriers and to connect one to many in the love of Christ. Now, we seek to work together -- pastor, council, teams, people -- as friends.
It seems that friendship may also be a way to embody our vision for evangelism. Not only are we encouraged to invite our friends into a relationship, a friendship with Jesus, we are commissioned to go and make friends in Jesus’ name. That simple act is at the heart of inviting someone to join us as disciples of Jesus, and that simple act can make the difference between hope and despair in difficult times.
During these past months, when Jakob was in the hospital and Luke was sick as well, as our family has started to make adjustments to the new reality of living with a chronic illness, we have taken strength from Christian friendship. To know that we are remembered in prayer and joined in conversation by people who are walking with us, crying with us, laughing with us is to know God's love and new life in God's kingdom. I pray that all people may come to know the love of God as my family and I have over this past month. Thank you, friends.
We like to talk about the life of discipleship as being the life of a servant -- a servant of Christ, a servant of our neighbor. That conversation has its place, but let me direct your attention to another way of living out our life together in God's mission, not as servants, but as friends. Meditate a while on the difference. Servants have masters. Servants obey orders and commands. Servants are part of a hierarchy. Friends, however, are equals. Friends are bound by and respond to each other out of love and respect. To work together as friends implies working with common knowledge and purpose. In many ways, I think, we might better embody the good news of God's kingdom through friendship rather than service.
Over the past few months, we have had a number of conversations about what we can do as individuals and as a community to respond to people who have lost their job, been overwhelmed by debt or have in other ways been adversely effected by current economic conditions. It seems that best answer we came up with was for us to be a friend. We are continuing our soup suppers on Thursday night so that we can gather as friends and make new friends. By being friends, we announce and live God's friendship with us.
Friendship also lies at the heart of our vision for ministry here at Holy Trinity. The hierarchy is gone. We are all free to live out the good news that Jesus Christ has heard from the Father, that Jesus Christ embodied, that Jesus Christ has revealed to us. Gone are the days when the church council played gate-keeper and permission-giver. Gone are the days when committees made decisions and then looked for servants to march out to do their wishes. Gone are the days when the pastor, council president or committee chair told everyone how and where to serve. Today, at Holy Trinity, we encourage all people at Holy Trinity to meet together and to live out their calling to be Jesus' disciples and Jesus' friends in creative ways, according their gifts, abilities and interests. We share a particular vision of a way to embody the mission God in this place: to share the good news of the God's kingdom, to overcome barriers and to connect one to many in the love of Christ. Now, we seek to work together -- pastor, council, teams, people -- as friends.
It seems that friendship may also be a way to embody our vision for evangelism. Not only are we encouraged to invite our friends into a relationship, a friendship with Jesus, we are commissioned to go and make friends in Jesus’ name. That simple act is at the heart of inviting someone to join us as disciples of Jesus, and that simple act can make the difference between hope and despair in difficult times.
During these past months, when Jakob was in the hospital and Luke was sick as well, as our family has started to make adjustments to the new reality of living with a chronic illness, we have taken strength from Christian friendship. To know that we are remembered in prayer and joined in conversation by people who are walking with us, crying with us, laughing with us is to know God's love and new life in God's kingdom. I pray that all people may come to know the love of God as my family and I have over this past month. Thank you, friends.
Please save Boxtops for Education & Campbell's UPC Labels for Education
Please save Boxtops for Education &
Campbell’s UPC Labels for Education
for the ELCA Navajo Mission
Rock Point, AZ www.nelm.org
There is a collection box at the church entry.
(For Campbell’s, please trim to just the dotted area around the UPC. They no longer accept label fronts. Boxtops are found on Big G cereals and Kimberly Clark paper products—Scott products, Ziplocs and some popcorn/food items)
Pastor Jim has worked with this mission and it is our designated mission project for Discovery Canyon VBS this summer.
Campbell’s UPC Labels for Education
for the ELCA Navajo Mission
Rock Point, AZ www.nelm.org
There is a collection box at the church entry.
(For Campbell’s, please trim to just the dotted area around the UPC. They no longer accept label fronts. Boxtops are found on Big G cereals and Kimberly Clark paper products—Scott products, Ziplocs and some popcorn/food items)
Pastor Jim has worked with this mission and it is our designated mission project for Discovery Canyon VBS this summer.
In our Community
Using E-mail to Make, Keep and Invite Friends. Communication is vital to any relationship. That includes your relationship with others groups, teams and ministries going on at Holy Trinity. E-mail puts a powerful communication tool at our fingertips. Not only can we stay informed about news, events and happenings in the Holy Trinity community, but we are able to share that news with our friends as well by passing the information along to them or inviting them to be part of the Holy Trinity mailing list.
As postal rates continue to rise -- another two cents in May -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
SAVE THE DATE!
AIDS WALK NEW YORK
Sunday, May 17, 2009
AIDS Walk New York (AWNY) is the world’s largest AIDS fundraising event. In 2008, more than 45,000 people participated and raised a record breaking sum of over $7 million. Funds raised from the walkathon go to numerous programs and educational services to support people living with HIV/AIDS, and to over 60 other tri-state area AIDS organizations. The 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) walkathon begins and ends in Central Park. Nancy and Tony Maguire are again raising funds and on Sunday, May 17, 2009 they will participate in AIDS Walk New York. If you would like to walk with them, or sponsor them by donating money, please let them know.
Checks should be payable to AWNY and can be given to Nancy or Tony anytime. You can also mail your check to their address at 26 Parsons Ct., Mahwah, NJ 07430. If you would like to raise money at your school or place of business they can provide you with sponsor forms. If you would like more information please call them at
(201) 934-9366. You can also visit www.aidswalk.net.
As postal rates continue to rise -- another two cents in May -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
SAVE THE DATE!
AIDS WALK NEW YORK
Sunday, May 17, 2009
AIDS Walk New York (AWNY) is the world’s largest AIDS fundraising event. In 2008, more than 45,000 people participated and raised a record breaking sum of over $7 million. Funds raised from the walkathon go to numerous programs and educational services to support people living with HIV/AIDS, and to over 60 other tri-state area AIDS organizations. The 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) walkathon begins and ends in Central Park. Nancy and Tony Maguire are again raising funds and on Sunday, May 17, 2009 they will participate in AIDS Walk New York. If you would like to walk with them, or sponsor them by donating money, please let them know.
Checks should be payable to AWNY and can be given to Nancy or Tony anytime. You can also mail your check to their address at 26 Parsons Ct., Mahwah, NJ 07430. If you would like to raise money at your school or place of business they can provide you with sponsor forms. If you would like more information please call them at
(201) 934-9366. You can also visit www.aidswalk.net.
Thank You!
On Sunday, May 31, we will recognize the various ways people have volunteered to serve and live God's mission through the ministry of this congregation. In the litany of volunteer recognition we will confess: "Our volunteers put flesh and bone on our call to be the body of Christ in the world."
Thank you...
To all who shared soup so far, either of your own making or from your favorite restaurant, and to all who purchased or made bread: The Jones Family, Jill Fenske, Marcia Hayes, Jainie Gambaro, Sally Mueller, Betty Gambaro, Julie Franchino, Phyllis Weber, Linda (Franklin Reformed Church), Pat Brulato, Jeff Grieco, Nancy Guenther. To all who shared a little something else -- who can forget Dave's fired Salami or the week of three pound cakes for dessert. If we missed anyone, please accept our apologies. Thanks. To Phyllis and Nancy for once again organizing and preparing the assortment of fruit and cheeses that make our Maundy Thursday dinner so special.
To the Holy Trinity choir for their dedication and their ministry.
To Pastor Jill and the people of Franklin Reformed for walking with us on our Lenten journey and for sharing with us in our common mission: the good news of the kingdom of God.
To Frank and Chris for all they do, but especially for making raising funds so much fun.
To Nancy for all she does, but especially for pulling together a wonderful and enjoyable Easter pancake breakfast.
To all who worked the pancake breakfast: the cooks, the set up and clean up, the serving, the dishwashing.
To all who helped bring the look of Easter to our sanctuary by coming out on a Saturday morning.
To the people who stayed after worship to brainstorm some ways we can start as a community to reach out to people affected by the current economic downturn.
To the people of Holy Trinity for your prayers, your concern, your cards and well wishes, your patience and understanding during Jakob's time in the hospital and during this current time of adjustment and re-adjustment.
To Tina for her dedication and skill in the administration of the ministry we all share.
To Scott for his leadership -- musical, spiritual and organizational -- and for his attention to detail that keeps this ministry on track.
To all who teach and help with Sunday School and to those who are starting to plan for this summer's Vacation Bible School.
To all who serve us in worship ushers, greeters, lectors, worship leaders and table servers.
Again. Thank you.
Using our Gifts in God's Mission
At Holy Trinity, when we talk about participating in God's mission, we don't talk about starting another program, we wonder how we can use the gifts, talents, passions and interests that God has given us to share and embody the good news of the God's kingdom. Over the past few weeks, we have heard conversations about doing ministry in these areas:
+ Growing and sharing our own vegetables this summer.
+ Simple living and getting control over your financial life.
+ Prayer and spiritual growth.
+ Reducing our carbon footprint and other "green efforts."
Do any of these interests align with your interests? Then join us on Thursday, May 14, at 7 p.m. (after soup) for prayer and conversation around these topics.
Thank you...
To all who shared soup so far, either of your own making or from your favorite restaurant, and to all who purchased or made bread: The Jones Family, Jill Fenske, Marcia Hayes, Jainie Gambaro, Sally Mueller, Betty Gambaro, Julie Franchino, Phyllis Weber, Linda (Franklin Reformed Church), Pat Brulato, Jeff Grieco, Nancy Guenther. To all who shared a little something else -- who can forget Dave's fired Salami or the week of three pound cakes for dessert. If we missed anyone, please accept our apologies. Thanks. To Phyllis and Nancy for once again organizing and preparing the assortment of fruit and cheeses that make our Maundy Thursday dinner so special.
To the Holy Trinity choir for their dedication and their ministry.
To Pastor Jill and the people of Franklin Reformed for walking with us on our Lenten journey and for sharing with us in our common mission: the good news of the kingdom of God.
To Frank and Chris for all they do, but especially for making raising funds so much fun.
To Nancy for all she does, but especially for pulling together a wonderful and enjoyable Easter pancake breakfast.
To all who worked the pancake breakfast: the cooks, the set up and clean up, the serving, the dishwashing.
To all who helped bring the look of Easter to our sanctuary by coming out on a Saturday morning.
To the people who stayed after worship to brainstorm some ways we can start as a community to reach out to people affected by the current economic downturn.
To the people of Holy Trinity for your prayers, your concern, your cards and well wishes, your patience and understanding during Jakob's time in the hospital and during this current time of adjustment and re-adjustment.
To Tina for her dedication and skill in the administration of the ministry we all share.
To Scott for his leadership -- musical, spiritual and organizational -- and for his attention to detail that keeps this ministry on track.
To all who teach and help with Sunday School and to those who are starting to plan for this summer's Vacation Bible School.
To all who serve us in worship ushers, greeters, lectors, worship leaders and table servers.
Again. Thank you.
Using our Gifts in God's Mission
At Holy Trinity, when we talk about participating in God's mission, we don't talk about starting another program, we wonder how we can use the gifts, talents, passions and interests that God has given us to share and embody the good news of the God's kingdom. Over the past few weeks, we have heard conversations about doing ministry in these areas:
+ Growing and sharing our own vegetables this summer.
+ Simple living and getting control over your financial life.
+ Prayer and spiritual growth.
+ Reducing our carbon footprint and other "green efforts."
Do any of these interests align with your interests? Then join us on Thursday, May 14, at 7 p.m. (after soup) for prayer and conversation around these topics.
Stewardship Strengthens...
Stewardship strengthens our relationship with Jesus
STEWARDSHIP OF THE EARTH
Churches today are becoming more concerned about the stewardship of our Earth’s resources; the New Jersey Synod and Holy Trinity are no exception. Martin and Sally Mueller are heading up a committee to begin looking into ways that we can make “green” choices.
Please talk to the Mueller’s if you would like to help.
Christianity and Ecology Resources
Eco-Justice Ministries - http://www.eco-justice.org/ - An independent ecumenical agency focused on helping congregations strengthen their environmental concern. Includes the free weekly e-devotion/newsletter Eco-Justice Notes, as well as worship and educational resources
Greenfaith: Interfaith Partners for the Environment - http://www.greenfaith.org/ - A New Jersey organization involved in a wide range of faith-based environmental causes. Has a range of programs, grants, tours, justice causes, and resources, including many basic stewardship guides.
ELCA Environmental Advocacy - http://archive.elca.org/advocacy/issues/environment/default.asp - a wide range of ELCA actions and resources pertaining to the environment.
Earthkeeping News - http://nacce.org/library/ - Network Alliance of Congregations Caring for the Earth’s weblog of articles, issues, and other Christianity and ecology resources.
Renewal: Stories from America’s Religious-Environmental Movement – A film with eight 10-15 minute stories on religious groups engaged in environmental work in the U.S.; a very effective discussion starter from the Renewal project, a multi-denominational Christian ecological movement based in the United Kingdom. DVD can be purchased at http://www.renewalproject.net/dvd for $19.95.
Energy Star for Congregations - http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=small_business.sb_congregations – A useful guide for congregations seeking to reduce energy usage.
Lenten Carbon Fast - http://www.gwipl.org/lent.asp - see how congregations in the greater Washington, D.C. area are working to go green this Lent.
Carbon Footprint Calculator - http://www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx - see what your estimated carbon usage is – it will likely surprise you!
Biblical Texts and Creation Care - http://www.greenfaith.org/spirit/scripture.pdf
New Jersey Council of Churches Eco-justice Advocacy - http://www.njcc.cnc.net/ecojustice.html - Not too much on there right now, but good to keep in mind.
OUR TOWN NEEDS YOUR HELP
With the economic downturn continuing, the needs of Nutley citizens grows. Use your gifts of time and talent to “connect one to many” by considering these volunteer opportunities:
Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB):
This increasingly valuable town resource would like to expand its’ current operating schedule. To make this possible, the NFSB needs several volunteers from 11:00am until 3:00pm on the second Saturday of each month. At least 3 people are required, but more will allow the NFSB to rotate responsibility. Those that are interested in volunteering should call Jolinda Griwert, (Co-Director, NFSB) at (973) 667-6322 after 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.
Nutley Red Cross (NRC):
Current programs in need of assistance include:
• Senior transportation: drivers offer one morning or afternoon per week transporting seniors to medical appointments in Nutley and neighboring towns.
• Food pantry: pack food bags for families, weekdays and weekends.
• General office assistance: answering phones, make appointments and distribute food bags, one morning or one afternoon each week.
• Blood drives: greet and sign in donors and operate the coffee table, the third Tuesday of each month from 3pm – 8pm.
Please let us know if you would like to volunteer – the Church Office has the Volunteer Applications for the Red Cross. Thank you.
STEWARDSHIP OF THE EARTH
Churches today are becoming more concerned about the stewardship of our Earth’s resources; the New Jersey Synod and Holy Trinity are no exception. Martin and Sally Mueller are heading up a committee to begin looking into ways that we can make “green” choices.
Please talk to the Mueller’s if you would like to help.
Christianity and Ecology Resources
Eco-Justice Ministries - http://www.eco-justice.org/ - An independent ecumenical agency focused on helping congregations strengthen their environmental concern. Includes the free weekly e-devotion/newsletter Eco-Justice Notes, as well as worship and educational resources
Greenfaith: Interfaith Partners for the Environment - http://www.greenfaith.org/ - A New Jersey organization involved in a wide range of faith-based environmental causes. Has a range of programs, grants, tours, justice causes, and resources, including many basic stewardship guides.
ELCA Environmental Advocacy - http://archive.elca.org/advocacy/issues/environment/default.asp - a wide range of ELCA actions and resources pertaining to the environment.
Earthkeeping News - http://nacce.org/library/ - Network Alliance of Congregations Caring for the Earth’s weblog of articles, issues, and other Christianity and ecology resources.
Renewal: Stories from America’s Religious-Environmental Movement – A film with eight 10-15 minute stories on religious groups engaged in environmental work in the U.S.; a very effective discussion starter from the Renewal project, a multi-denominational Christian ecological movement based in the United Kingdom. DVD can be purchased at http://www.renewalproject.net/dvd for $19.95.
Energy Star for Congregations - http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=small_business.sb_congregations – A useful guide for congregations seeking to reduce energy usage.
Lenten Carbon Fast - http://www.gwipl.org/lent.asp - see how congregations in the greater Washington, D.C. area are working to go green this Lent.
Carbon Footprint Calculator - http://www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx - see what your estimated carbon usage is – it will likely surprise you!
Biblical Texts and Creation Care - http://www.greenfaith.org/spirit/scripture.pdf
New Jersey Council of Churches Eco-justice Advocacy - http://www.njcc.cnc.net/ecojustice.html - Not too much on there right now, but good to keep in mind.
OUR TOWN NEEDS YOUR HELP
With the economic downturn continuing, the needs of Nutley citizens grows. Use your gifts of time and talent to “connect one to many” by considering these volunteer opportunities:
Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB):
This increasingly valuable town resource would like to expand its’ current operating schedule. To make this possible, the NFSB needs several volunteers from 11:00am until 3:00pm on the second Saturday of each month. At least 3 people are required, but more will allow the NFSB to rotate responsibility. Those that are interested in volunteering should call Jolinda Griwert, (Co-Director, NFSB) at (973) 667-6322 after 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.
Nutley Red Cross (NRC):
Current programs in need of assistance include:
• Senior transportation: drivers offer one morning or afternoon per week transporting seniors to medical appointments in Nutley and neighboring towns.
• Food pantry: pack food bags for families, weekdays and weekends.
• General office assistance: answering phones, make appointments and distribute food bags, one morning or one afternoon each week.
• Blood drives: greet and sign in donors and operate the coffee table, the third Tuesday of each month from 3pm – 8pm.
Please let us know if you would like to volunteer – the Church Office has the Volunteer Applications for the Red Cross. Thank you.
Red Geraniums
On Pentecost (May 31, 2009), we celebrate the birthday of one holy and apostolic church. We remember how God poured out His Holy Spirit on his disciples and emboldened and empowered us for God’s mission in the world.
It is a Holy Trinity tradition to decorate the church with Red Geraniums and for all of us to wear red on this festive day. To order red geraniums, please fill out the form below and return to the church office no later than Sunday, May 17. The cost is $3.00 per plant (4 ½” foil wrapped pot). Any plants left will be planted outside the Church.
Red Geranium Order Form
Name ________________________________
Envelope no._________
Number of plants ________(at $3.00 each)
Total enclosed __________
How many plants would you like to:
Take home with you: __________
Leave at the church for planting: __________
===================================================
Counters, please fill out below:
Paid amount: $____________ Paid via: (circle one)
Cash or Check
It is a Holy Trinity tradition to decorate the church with Red Geraniums and for all of us to wear red on this festive day. To order red geraniums, please fill out the form below and return to the church office no later than Sunday, May 17. The cost is $3.00 per plant (4 ½” foil wrapped pot). Any plants left will be planted outside the Church.
Red Geranium Order Form
Name ________________________________
Envelope no._________
Number of plants ________(at $3.00 each)
Total enclosed __________
How many plants would you like to:
Take home with you: __________
Leave at the church for planting: __________
===================================================
Counters, please fill out below:
Paid amount: $____________ Paid via: (circle one)
Cash or Check
Mother's Day Contributions to the Endowment Fund
Three times a year, we encourage the people of Holy Trinity to make gifts to the Endowment Fund in honor of their parents and others through whom God has worked to build faith – Mother’s Day, All Saints Day, and Father’s Day. The name of the donor and the person honored in the gift will be included in the bulletin on these special days. Our Endowment Fund is a vital ongoing and multiplying source of support for our current mission and ministry, but more than that, your gift to the fund is invested; it grows to bear fruit in support of God’s future work through this congregation.
Here is an opportunity for all people of Holy Trinity to participate in the future effort of God’s mission. If you would like to make a gift to the Endowment Fund, please use the tear-off at the bottom of this sheet and include it with your check made out to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Fund.
2009 Mother’s Day Gift to the Endowment Fund of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Name: ____________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________
Amount: ___________ Relationship:______________________
Name of person(s) to be honored/remembered:
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
Name of person(s) giving the gift:______________________________
(Please leave this sheet and offering in the offering plate or office.)
Here is an opportunity for all people of Holy Trinity to participate in the future effort of God’s mission. If you would like to make a gift to the Endowment Fund, please use the tear-off at the bottom of this sheet and include it with your check made out to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Fund.
2009 Mother’s Day Gift to the Endowment Fund of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Name: ____________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________
Amount: ___________ Relationship:______________________
Name of person(s) to be honored/remembered:
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
Name of person(s) giving the gift:______________________________
(Please leave this sheet and offering in the offering plate or office.)
Where in the World do You Witness?
• The Car Wash – a setting with baptismal images abounding! You have from 5 to 8 minutes to engage with someone about something besides the weather. Ask about the bumper sticker on their car. See if you can connect with some core conviction and share a thought about what gives meaning to your life.
• The Barber Shop – another short block of time where a simple question can take you deeper.
• The Ball Field – sportsmanship, health and fitness, values for children, what will give you an opening to witness?
• The Barber Shop – another short block of time where a simple question can take you deeper.
• The Ball Field – sportsmanship, health and fitness, values for children, what will give you an opening to witness?
May Birthdays, Anniversaries and Disciples
Birthdays
2:Al Weber
3:Audrey Stevens
4:Erika Murphy
11:Don Walch
12:Jean Esparolini
14:Ethan Munoz
15:Gail Ceravolo
19:Dorothy Greengrove, Debbie Jones, Terry D'Agnolo
21:Jan Strachan
26:Gerald Mayr
Anniversaries
29:Joseph & Liz Cicci
Disciples
Please pray for this person on the day of the week listed for them.
1:Verna Norton
2:Steve Oberndorf
4:Evelyn Oberndorf
5:Ellen Oberndorf
6:Eric Oberndorf
7:Jayne Osborne
8:Ross Pennise
9:Hope Pennise
11:Jillian Pennise
12:Diane Petschel
13:Paige Petschel
14:Anthony Pisciotta
15:Kathy Pisciotta
16:David Pisciotta
18:Kristen Pisciotta
19:Dave Reed
20:Sharon Reed
21:Chuck Rhodes
22:George Ritacco
23:Diane Ritacco
25:Davia Ritacco
26:Alex Rubens
27:Aida Rubens
28:Catherine Rubens
29:Alexandra Rubens
30:Monica Rubens
2:Al Weber
3:Audrey Stevens
4:Erika Murphy
11:Don Walch
12:Jean Esparolini
14:Ethan Munoz
15:Gail Ceravolo
19:Dorothy Greengrove, Debbie Jones, Terry D'Agnolo
21:Jan Strachan
26:Gerald Mayr
Anniversaries
29:Joseph & Liz Cicci
Disciples
Please pray for this person on the day of the week listed for them.
1:Verna Norton
2:Steve Oberndorf
4:Evelyn Oberndorf
5:Ellen Oberndorf
6:Eric Oberndorf
7:Jayne Osborne
8:Ross Pennise
9:Hope Pennise
11:Jillian Pennise
12:Diane Petschel
13:Paige Petschel
14:Anthony Pisciotta
15:Kathy Pisciotta
16:David Pisciotta
18:Kristen Pisciotta
19:Dave Reed
20:Sharon Reed
21:Chuck Rhodes
22:George Ritacco
23:Diane Ritacco
25:Davia Ritacco
26:Alex Rubens
27:Aida Rubens
28:Catherine Rubens
29:Alexandra Rubens
30:Monica Rubens
Thursday, March 26, 2009
On The Calendar
Holy Week and Easter Worship Schedule
Sunday, April 5. Palm/Passion Sunday
8:45 a.m. Meet for coffee in fellowship hall. Walk to the Mudhole for the Blessing of Palms
9:00 a.m. Ecumenical Blessing of the Palms service. Process back to Holy Trinity for coffee and bagels.
10 a.m. Festival worship with Palm Procession led by Sunday School children.
Thursday, April 9. Maundy Thursday
6:15 p.m. Soup Supper.
7:30 p.m. Service of Holy Communion
Friday, April 10. Good Friday
Noon: Nutley Clergy Fellowship Good Friday service at Grace Church
7:30 p.m. Good Friday service and passion reading for John.
Saturday, April 11
10:00 a.m. Would you like to help prepare the church for Easter? We will meet in the morning to change the paraments, hang wreaths and place the Easter flowers around the sanctuary. Please call Scott and
Debbie Jones (973-338-0267) or the church office.
Sunday, April 12. Easter Sunday
8:30 a.m. Easter Breakfast to benefit the Nutley First Aid Squad
10:00 a.m. Festival worship with Holy Communion.
Sunday, April 5. Palm/Passion Sunday
8:45 a.m. Meet for coffee in fellowship hall. Walk to the Mudhole for the Blessing of Palms
9:00 a.m. Ecumenical Blessing of the Palms service. Process back to Holy Trinity for coffee and bagels.
10 a.m. Festival worship with Palm Procession led by Sunday School children.
Thursday, April 9. Maundy Thursday
6:15 p.m. Soup Supper.
7:30 p.m. Service of Holy Communion
Friday, April 10. Good Friday
Noon: Nutley Clergy Fellowship Good Friday service at Grace Church
7:30 p.m. Good Friday service and passion reading for John.
Saturday, April 11
10:00 a.m. Would you like to help prepare the church for Easter? We will meet in the morning to change the paraments, hang wreaths and place the Easter flowers around the sanctuary. Please call Scott and
Debbie Jones (973-338-0267) or the church office.
Sunday, April 12. Easter Sunday
8:30 a.m. Easter Breakfast to benefit the Nutley First Aid Squad
10:00 a.m. Festival worship with Holy Communion.
Eco-Palms for Palm Sunday Worship
For this Palm Sunday we ordered “Eco-Palms” direct from Lutheran World Relief. Lutheran World Relief is partnering with the University of Minnesota to build support in the U.S. for Eco-Palms by introducing Lutheran parishes to this social and environmental justice project. In addition to environmental and economic sustainability, Eco-Palms promote improvement for entire communities in Guatemala and Mexico. Eco-Palm cooperatives designate five cents from each palm they sell to improve the lives of all community members. Consider the good that can be accomplished through our Palm Sunday celebration.
Pastor's Message
"... he died for all, so that those who live might live no longer for themselves, but for him who died and was raised for them. From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!"
-- 2 Corinthians 5:15-17
As the people of Jesus, the events of Holy Week and Easter challenge us, again and again, to explore and to discover, to preach and then to work out in practicing the meaning and the implications of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. When Jesus rose from the dead, everything we knew about life and death and this world changed.
In the power of the Holy Spirit, the apostle Paul worked through some of the implications of Jesus' resurrection as he wrote to the church in Corinth. In our baptism we are joined to Jesus' death, therefore we are dead to this world and its powers. As we are joined with Jesus in death, we are also part of Jesus in his life, his resurrection. The resurrection is the promise of our future, guaranteed by the crucified but now living Jesus. Now, if we as a community have been gathered and joined to Jesus' death and resurrection ... if resurrection, new life and new creation are the future for us and for the whole creation ... then we can no longer look at each other or relate to each other in the same old ways.
Because Jesus rose from the dead, because God is making all things new, we can no longer see each other or judge each other by the standards of this world -- color, race, culture, economics, gender or sex, intelligence, mental or physical health. By what other standards do we relate to each other? Beyond all of these things that describe who we are to ourselves and to each other, is the simple fact that we are in Christ. In Christ, we are God's new creation.
Moving on from the events of Holy Week and Easter, Jesus lead us out to proclaim the alarming good news -- Christ is risen! God sends us out to live ... or start to live out the implications of what God is doing to this world and for this world. In our worship together, our praying together, our studying together, our serving together, our giving together, God forms and transforms us into a living community that proclaims -- by what we say, by what we do and, especially in how we relate to each other -- that God raised Jesus from the dead.
That is what we are about as Jesus' people gathered into a community called Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. As Jesus' people we share the good news, overcome barriers and connect in the love of Christ. Join us. And remember, invite your friends. Christ is risen!
-- 2 Corinthians 5:15-17
As the people of Jesus, the events of Holy Week and Easter challenge us, again and again, to explore and to discover, to preach and then to work out in practicing the meaning and the implications of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. When Jesus rose from the dead, everything we knew about life and death and this world changed.
In the power of the Holy Spirit, the apostle Paul worked through some of the implications of Jesus' resurrection as he wrote to the church in Corinth. In our baptism we are joined to Jesus' death, therefore we are dead to this world and its powers. As we are joined with Jesus in death, we are also part of Jesus in his life, his resurrection. The resurrection is the promise of our future, guaranteed by the crucified but now living Jesus. Now, if we as a community have been gathered and joined to Jesus' death and resurrection ... if resurrection, new life and new creation are the future for us and for the whole creation ... then we can no longer look at each other or relate to each other in the same old ways.
Because Jesus rose from the dead, because God is making all things new, we can no longer see each other or judge each other by the standards of this world -- color, race, culture, economics, gender or sex, intelligence, mental or physical health. By what other standards do we relate to each other? Beyond all of these things that describe who we are to ourselves and to each other, is the simple fact that we are in Christ. In Christ, we are God's new creation.
Moving on from the events of Holy Week and Easter, Jesus lead us out to proclaim the alarming good news -- Christ is risen! God sends us out to live ... or start to live out the implications of what God is doing to this world and for this world. In our worship together, our praying together, our studying together, our serving together, our giving together, God forms and transforms us into a living community that proclaims -- by what we say, by what we do and, especially in how we relate to each other -- that God raised Jesus from the dead.
That is what we are about as Jesus' people gathered into a community called Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. As Jesus' people we share the good news, overcome barriers and connect in the love of Christ. Join us. And remember, invite your friends. Christ is risen!
Price Change for Sunday Flowers
It is moving to see how lovingly the people of Holy Trinity dedicate the Sunday flowers to the glory of God in honor of the people who have touched their lives. Beyond providing a way to honor loved ones, the flowers often brighten the homes of our shut-in members with the knowledge that even though they can no longer be present in our worship, they remain present in our worship, our prayers and our hearts. Thank you for supporting this important ministry.
Starting March 1, however, the price of these flowers will increase from $25 to $30. This is the price Holy Trinity is charged by our florist. If you have signed up for flowers and this $5 price increase will be a burden to you, please call or e-mail the church office.
For those of you that are interested, please note that we still have available dates for Altar Flowers in the following months: May, July, September, October, November and December.
Starting March 1, however, the price of these flowers will increase from $25 to $30. This is the price Holy Trinity is charged by our florist. If you have signed up for flowers and this $5 price increase will be a burden to you, please call or e-mail the church office.
For those of you that are interested, please note that we still have available dates for Altar Flowers in the following months: May, July, September, October, November and December.
Boxtops for Education
Please save Boxtops for Education &
Campbell’s UPC Labels for Education
for the ELCA Navajo Mission
Rock Point, AZ www.nelm.org
There is a collection box at the church entry.
(For Campbell’s, please trim to just the dotted area around the UPC. They no longer accept label fronts. Boxtops are found on Big G cereals and Kimberly Clark paper products—Scott products, Ziplocs and some popcorn/food items)
Pastor Jim has worked with this mission and it is our designated mission project for Discovery Canyon VBS this summer.
Campbell’s UPC Labels for Education
for the ELCA Navajo Mission
Rock Point, AZ www.nelm.org
There is a collection box at the church entry.
(For Campbell’s, please trim to just the dotted area around the UPC. They no longer accept label fronts. Boxtops are found on Big G cereals and Kimberly Clark paper products—Scott products, Ziplocs and some popcorn/food items)
Pastor Jim has worked with this mission and it is our designated mission project for Discovery Canyon VBS this summer.
In Our Community
In Memoriam
World War II veteran, William D. Ryden Sr., 86, of Clifton passed away peacefully at home on March 9, 2009. A 59-year resident of Clifton, Mr. Ryden was born and raised in Nutley, graduating from Nutley High School in 1940. He worked for the State of New Jersey as an electrician and proudly served his country during World War II as a gunner's mate second class in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1948. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Gloria (Rosetta), to whom he was married for 66 years; his four children, Karen Palkewicz and her husband, Richard, Sandra Woudenberg, William D. Ryden Jr. and Wayne Ryden and his wife, Connie; his eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Mr. Ryden is also survived by his eldest brother, Carl "Freddy" and his youngest brother, Richard, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Using E-mail to Make, Keep and Invite Friends.
Communication is vital to any relationship. That includes your relationship with others groups, teams and ministries going on at Holy Trinity. E-mail puts a powerful communication tool at our fingertips. Not only can we stay informed about news, events and happenings in the Holy Trinity community, but we are able to share that news with our friends as well by passing the information along to them or inviting them to be part of the Holy Trinity mailing list.
As postal rates continue to rise -- another two cents in May -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
Congratulations!
On the engagements of:
Chelsea Cicci to Christopher Wright
and
Janette Lutz to Patrick McGinness
Graduating in May or June?
Please let us know the date and from where you are graduating and we will share that good news. Feel free to share your future plans, ad well.
World War II veteran, William D. Ryden Sr., 86, of Clifton passed away peacefully at home on March 9, 2009. A 59-year resident of Clifton, Mr. Ryden was born and raised in Nutley, graduating from Nutley High School in 1940. He worked for the State of New Jersey as an electrician and proudly served his country during World War II as a gunner's mate second class in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1948. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Gloria (Rosetta), to whom he was married for 66 years; his four children, Karen Palkewicz and her husband, Richard, Sandra Woudenberg, William D. Ryden Jr. and Wayne Ryden and his wife, Connie; his eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Mr. Ryden is also survived by his eldest brother, Carl "Freddy" and his youngest brother, Richard, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Using E-mail to Make, Keep and Invite Friends.
Communication is vital to any relationship. That includes your relationship with others groups, teams and ministries going on at Holy Trinity. E-mail puts a powerful communication tool at our fingertips. Not only can we stay informed about news, events and happenings in the Holy Trinity community, but we are able to share that news with our friends as well by passing the information along to them or inviting them to be part of the Holy Trinity mailing list.
As postal rates continue to rise -- another two cents in May -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
Congratulations!
On the engagements of:
Chelsea Cicci to Christopher Wright
and
Janette Lutz to Patrick McGinness
Graduating in May or June?
Please let us know the date and from where you are graduating and we will share that good news. Feel free to share your future plans, ad well.
April Birthdays, Anniversaries and Disciples
April Birthdays
4:Ken Duke
5:Justin Munoz, Richard Hudnett
9:Brian Johnson, Alexandra Rubens
10:Elfrieda Fenton, Erica Geiselmann
14:Sarah Jones
18:Christine Esparolini, Jeff Lin
22:Richard Bacik
24:Nancy Guenther
26:Ed Cordes, Miriam Mascola
29:Sharon Murphy
April Anniversaries
7:Greg and Ruth Sekula
21:Otto and Hedy Mayr
Disciples
Each day of the week (except Sunday) has the name of a person in this community. Please, remember that person in your prayers that day. On Sunday, we will pray for all of the people listed in the coming week.
1:Nicole Mozeliak
2:Lizzy Wiede
3:Holly Wiede
4:Martin Mueller
6:Sally Mueller
7:Max Mueller
8:Miles Mueller
9:Daniel Munoz
10:Brenda Munoz
11:Justin Munoz
13:Ethan Munoz
14:Bonnie Munoz
15:Marie Munoz
16:Damian Murphy
17:Sharon Murphy
18:Angela Murphy
20:Erika Murphy
21:Alex Murphy
22:Olivia Murphy
23:Sara Murphy
24:William Murphy
25:Dennis Murphy
27:Daniel Murphy
28:Shannon Murphy
29:Kathe Nieciecki
30:John Norton
4:Ken Duke
5:Justin Munoz, Richard Hudnett
9:Brian Johnson, Alexandra Rubens
10:Elfrieda Fenton, Erica Geiselmann
14:Sarah Jones
18:Christine Esparolini, Jeff Lin
22:Richard Bacik
24:Nancy Guenther
26:Ed Cordes, Miriam Mascola
29:Sharon Murphy
April Anniversaries
7:Greg and Ruth Sekula
21:Otto and Hedy Mayr
Disciples
Each day of the week (except Sunday) has the name of a person in this community. Please, remember that person in your prayers that day. On Sunday, we will pray for all of the people listed in the coming week.
1:Nicole Mozeliak
2:Lizzy Wiede
3:Holly Wiede
4:Martin Mueller
6:Sally Mueller
7:Max Mueller
8:Miles Mueller
9:Daniel Munoz
10:Brenda Munoz
11:Justin Munoz
13:Ethan Munoz
14:Bonnie Munoz
15:Marie Munoz
16:Damian Murphy
17:Sharon Murphy
18:Angela Murphy
20:Erika Murphy
21:Alex Murphy
22:Olivia Murphy
23:Sara Murphy
24:William Murphy
25:Dennis Murphy
27:Daniel Murphy
28:Shannon Murphy
29:Kathe Nieciecki
30:John Norton
SAVE THE DAT!
AIDS WALK NEW YORK
Sunday, May 17, 2009
AIDS Walk New York (AWNY) is the world’s largest AIDS fundraising event. In 2008, more than 45,000 people participated and raised a record breaking sum of over $7 million. Funds raised from the walkathon go to numerous programs and educational services to support people living with HIV/AIDS, and to over 60 other tri-state area AIDS organizations. The 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) walkathon begins and ends in Central Park. Nancy and Tony Maguire are again raising funds and on Sunday, May 17, 2009 they will participate in AIDS Walk New York. If you would like to walk with them, or sponsor them by donating money, please let them know.
Checks should be payable to AWNY and can be given to Nancy or Tony anytime. You can also mail your check to their address at 26 Parsons Ct., Mahwah, NJ 07430. If you would like to raise money at your school or place of business they can provide you with sponsor forms. If you would like more information please call them at (201) 934-9366. You can also visit www.aidswalk.net.
Discovery Canyon VBS is just around the rim!
Our journey begins Sunday, August 16 and ends with a closing program on Friday, August 21. We will meet in the evening again, from 6:00-8:30 PM. Registration materials will be available soon for Pre-K to grade 6. There will also be a track for teens and adults, including study/discussion time with Pastor Jim.
Mark your calendars and grab your hiking gear. This is a week filled with amazing Bible stories, Cavern Crafts, Sagebrush Storytelling and Red Rock Rhythm! Plan to join us and invite a friend. See you at the Canyon!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
AIDS Walk New York (AWNY) is the world’s largest AIDS fundraising event. In 2008, more than 45,000 people participated and raised a record breaking sum of over $7 million. Funds raised from the walkathon go to numerous programs and educational services to support people living with HIV/AIDS, and to over 60 other tri-state area AIDS organizations. The 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) walkathon begins and ends in Central Park. Nancy and Tony Maguire are again raising funds and on Sunday, May 17, 2009 they will participate in AIDS Walk New York. If you would like to walk with them, or sponsor them by donating money, please let them know.
Checks should be payable to AWNY and can be given to Nancy or Tony anytime. You can also mail your check to their address at 26 Parsons Ct., Mahwah, NJ 07430. If you would like to raise money at your school or place of business they can provide you with sponsor forms. If you would like more information please call them at (201) 934-9366. You can also visit www.aidswalk.net.
Discovery Canyon VBS is just around the rim!
Our journey begins Sunday, August 16 and ends with a closing program on Friday, August 21. We will meet in the evening again, from 6:00-8:30 PM. Registration materials will be available soon for Pre-K to grade 6. There will also be a track for teens and adults, including study/discussion time with Pastor Jim.
Mark your calendars and grab your hiking gear. This is a week filled with amazing Bible stories, Cavern Crafts, Sagebrush Storytelling and Red Rock Rhythm! Plan to join us and invite a friend. See you at the Canyon!
Stewardship Strengthens...
Thank you. Together we fight hunger.
Together, we gave more than $200 (surpassing our goal of $175) on Sunday, February 1as part of the Souper Bowl of Caring. The money has been sent to support the local feeding programs in our community.
Stewardship of the Earth
Churches today are becoming more concerned about the stewardship of our Earth’s resources; the New Jersey Synod and Holy Trinity are no exception. Martin and Sally Mueller are heading up a committee to begin looking into ways that we can make “green” choices.
Stay tuned for more information and talk to the Mueller’s if you would like to help.
Together, we gave more than $200 (surpassing our goal of $175) on Sunday, February 1as part of the Souper Bowl of Caring. The money has been sent to support the local feeding programs in our community.
Stewardship of the Earth
Churches today are becoming more concerned about the stewardship of our Earth’s resources; the New Jersey Synod and Holy Trinity are no exception. Martin and Sally Mueller are heading up a committee to begin looking into ways that we can make “green” choices.
Stay tuned for more information and talk to the Mueller’s if you would like to help.
Invite a Friend This Easter/Easter Breakfast Sign-Up
Can you think of a better day than Easter to invite a friend or their entire family to join you in worship, to sing God’s praises and to hear God’s promises for you and the world God loves?
Bring them to the breakfast to benefit the Nutley First Aid Squad and then worship God together, because Jesus has been raised from the dead! What better news could we share with people we love?
Easter Breakfast Sign-up
Please fill out this form and return it to the Church Office no later than Sunday, April 5th. This will help us to know how much food to prepare.
Remember, this is the perfect opportunity to invite a friend or relative to come with you to hear the good news that changes everything in this world: God raised Jesus from the dead! Because He lives, we live, too.
_____Yes, I/we plan to be at the Easter Breakfast (Sunday, April 12th)
Number of people who plan to attend:_____
_____I/we would like to serve at the breakfast.
Names(s) of those attending:___________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Bring them to the breakfast to benefit the Nutley First Aid Squad and then worship God together, because Jesus has been raised from the dead! What better news could we share with people we love?
Easter Breakfast Sign-up
Please fill out this form and return it to the Church Office no later than Sunday, April 5th. This will help us to know how much food to prepare.
Remember, this is the perfect opportunity to invite a friend or relative to come with you to hear the good news that changes everything in this world: God raised Jesus from the dead! Because He lives, we live, too.
_____Yes, I/we plan to be at the Easter Breakfast (Sunday, April 12th)
Number of people who plan to attend:_____
_____I/we would like to serve at the breakfast.
Names(s) of those attending:___________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Thursday, February 19, 2009
ON THE CALENDAR
Schedule for Lent 2009
Ash Wednesday Worship: Feb. 25
11:30 a.m. Simple service with imposition of ashes and Holy Communion. Bag lunch after worship.
7:30 p.m. Service with imposition of ashes and Holy Communion.
Soup Suppers: Thursdays evenings March 5 through April 2
6:15 p.m. Enjoy fellowship with friends from Holy Trinity and Franklin Reformed Church over a simple bowl of hearty soup. Everyone is welcome. You can even sign up to bring a pot of your own favorite soup. Book study immediately follows dinners.
Thursdays in Lent (March 5 and on):
Book Study: The Isaiah Vision, by Raymond Fung.
There are three groups meeting each week during Lent to read, discuss and share stories from scripture, Raymond Fung's book and their own experience of God's mission to love and bless the world. You are invited to come any group any week.
Tuesday mornings 10 a.m. -- Franklin Reformed Church
Thursday afternoon 2 p.m. -- Holy Trinity Church
Thursday evening 7 p.m. -- Holy Trinity Church (after soup supper).
Looking Ahead: Holy Week and Easter
Sunday, April 5. Palm/Passion Sunday
8:45 a.m. Meet for coffee in fellowship hall. Walk to the Mudhole for the Blessing of Palms
9:00 a.m. Ecumenical Blessing of the Palms service. Process back to Holy Trinity for coffee and bagels.
10 a.m. Festival worship with Palm Procession led by Sunday School children.
Thursday, April 9. Maundy Thursday
6:15 p.m. Soup Supper.
7:30 p.m. Service of Holy Communion
Friday, April 10. Good Friday
Noon: Nutley Clergy Fellowship Good Friday service at Grace Church
7:30 p.m. Good Friday service and passion reading for John.
Sunday, April 12. Easter Sunday
8:30 a.m. Easter Breakfast to benefit the Nutley First Aid Squad
10:00 a.m. Festival worship with Holy Communion.
Women of the ELCA
Our next WELCA meeting will be Wednesday, March 11th at 7:30 PM. The location will be at Evelyn Oberndorf's home. Please call Evelyn at (973) 857-4579 to let her know you will be attending.
Ash Wednesday Worship: Feb. 25
11:30 a.m. Simple service with imposition of ashes and Holy Communion. Bag lunch after worship.
7:30 p.m. Service with imposition of ashes and Holy Communion.
Soup Suppers: Thursdays evenings March 5 through April 2
6:15 p.m. Enjoy fellowship with friends from Holy Trinity and Franklin Reformed Church over a simple bowl of hearty soup. Everyone is welcome. You can even sign up to bring a pot of your own favorite soup. Book study immediately follows dinners.
Thursdays in Lent (March 5 and on):
Book Study: The Isaiah Vision, by Raymond Fung.
There are three groups meeting each week during Lent to read, discuss and share stories from scripture, Raymond Fung's book and their own experience of God's mission to love and bless the world. You are invited to come any group any week.
Tuesday mornings 10 a.m. -- Franklin Reformed Church
Thursday afternoon 2 p.m. -- Holy Trinity Church
Thursday evening 7 p.m. -- Holy Trinity Church (after soup supper).
Looking Ahead: Holy Week and Easter
Sunday, April 5. Palm/Passion Sunday
8:45 a.m. Meet for coffee in fellowship hall. Walk to the Mudhole for the Blessing of Palms
9:00 a.m. Ecumenical Blessing of the Palms service. Process back to Holy Trinity for coffee and bagels.
10 a.m. Festival worship with Palm Procession led by Sunday School children.
Thursday, April 9. Maundy Thursday
6:15 p.m. Soup Supper.
7:30 p.m. Service of Holy Communion
Friday, April 10. Good Friday
Noon: Nutley Clergy Fellowship Good Friday service at Grace Church
7:30 p.m. Good Friday service and passion reading for John.
Sunday, April 12. Easter Sunday
8:30 a.m. Easter Breakfast to benefit the Nutley First Aid Squad
10:00 a.m. Festival worship with Holy Communion.
Women of the ELCA
Our next WELCA meeting will be Wednesday, March 11th at 7:30 PM. The location will be at Evelyn Oberndorf's home. Please call Evelyn at (973) 857-4579 to let her know you will be attending.
A RENEWED WEB SITE IS IN THE WORKS
Creative types -- writers, artists, photographers, musicians -- if you are interested in working as part of the team to transform Holy Trinity's Web site, call or e-mail Pastor Jim at pastor.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
PRICE CHANGE FOR SUNDAY FLOWERS
It is moving to see how lovingly the people of Holy Trinity dedicate the Sunday flowers to the glory of God in honor of the people who have touched their lives. Beyond providing a way to honor loved ones, the flowers often brighten the homes of our shut-in members with the knowledge that even though they can no longer be present in our worship, they remain present in our worship, our prayers and our hearts. Thank you for supporting this important ministry.
Starting March 1, however, the price of these flowers will increase from $25 to $30. This is the price Holy Trinity is charged by our florist. If you have signed up for flowers and this $5 price increase will be a burden to you, please call or e-mail the church office.
Starting March 1, however, the price of these flowers will increase from $25 to $30. This is the price Holy Trinity is charged by our florist. If you have signed up for flowers and this $5 price increase will be a burden to you, please call or e-mail the church office.
PASTOR'S MESSAGE
"Immediately, the Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels served him." -- Mark 1:12-13
A large national insurance company is running a commercial that talks about how that company was founded in the early years of the Great Depression of the 1930s and how they have been in business through a number of economic crises since then. Even as it pitches this particular company, the commercial tries to share a bit of wisdom. That message goes something like this: Once the initial shock passes and the fears subside, Americans concentrate on the things that really matter. "It's time to get back to basics," the man says, "and the basics are good."
That message, though, only echoes the wisdom of our older brothers and sisters in Christ, a wisdom gained by experience and shared with the rest of us through powerful stories of a God who is alive, active and still at work in people's lives, their families and their communities.
This month, Christians around the world are marking the beginning of the season of Lent. For the baptized people of God, then, "It's time to get back to basics. And the basics are good." The call to turn around, to return to the Lord our God and to once again concentrate on the basics of the Christian walk -- prayer, scripture, worship, witness, fellowship, service and generosity -- takes on new urgency and unusual clarity in this climate.
We are all familiar with the practice of giving something up for Lent. I wonder what you have had to give up already as a result of this recession? More than that, I wonder what is taking its place in your life? As we journey together this Lent, I want to challenge each of us to concentrate not on the things we have had to give up, but to focus our attention again on Jesus, whose by his life, death and resurrection became the rock of our salvation. In changing our focus, away from the American economy and back on to Jesus, we can work together on cultivating new habits, new disciplines, new ways of living as individuals and as a community of disciples of Jesus Christ that can replace the old things that are passing away. But let's not do this alone. Invite your friends and everyone you know to join us on the way. Are you up for the challenge?
A large national insurance company is running a commercial that talks about how that company was founded in the early years of the Great Depression of the 1930s and how they have been in business through a number of economic crises since then. Even as it pitches this particular company, the commercial tries to share a bit of wisdom. That message goes something like this: Once the initial shock passes and the fears subside, Americans concentrate on the things that really matter. "It's time to get back to basics," the man says, "and the basics are good."
That message, though, only echoes the wisdom of our older brothers and sisters in Christ, a wisdom gained by experience and shared with the rest of us through powerful stories of a God who is alive, active and still at work in people's lives, their families and their communities.
This month, Christians around the world are marking the beginning of the season of Lent. For the baptized people of God, then, "It's time to get back to basics. And the basics are good." The call to turn around, to return to the Lord our God and to once again concentrate on the basics of the Christian walk -- prayer, scripture, worship, witness, fellowship, service and generosity -- takes on new urgency and unusual clarity in this climate.
We are all familiar with the practice of giving something up for Lent. I wonder what you have had to give up already as a result of this recession? More than that, I wonder what is taking its place in your life? As we journey together this Lent, I want to challenge each of us to concentrate not on the things we have had to give up, but to focus our attention again on Jesus, whose by his life, death and resurrection became the rock of our salvation. In changing our focus, away from the American economy and back on to Jesus, we can work together on cultivating new habits, new disciplines, new ways of living as individuals and as a community of disciples of Jesus Christ that can replace the old things that are passing away. But let's not do this alone. Invite your friends and everyone you know to join us on the way. Are you up for the challenge?
IN OUR COMMUNITY
The Producers at NHS
Nutley Senior High School proudly presents The Producers, the Mel Brooks musical comedy. Come see our very own seniors--Sean Ulley, Miles Mueller and Danny Fornasa, who have been practicing for months. Performances are at 8:00 pm on Thursday through Saturday, March 5-7th and there will also be a Sunday matinee on March 8th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are available through the high school--$18.00 reserved and $12.00 for general admission. (973) 661-8846
Emily Jones to Conduct Civic Band
The Bloomfield Civic Band will present a concert at 3:00 PM on Sunday, March 8 at Bloomfield Middle School, 60 Huck Rd. In honor of National Women’s History Month, several women from the band will conduct portions of the program. Emily Jones will conduct The Carousel Waltz. Tickets are $8; students and seniors are $5 and those 12 and under are free. (973) 338-8140
Using E-mail to Make, Keep and Invite Friends.
Communication is vital to any relationship. That includes your relationship with others groups, teams and ministries going on at Holy Trinity. E-mail puts a powerful communication tool at our fingertips. Not only can we stay informed about news, events and happenings in the Holy Trinity community, but we are able to share that news with our friends as well by passing the information along to them or inviting them to be part of the Holy Trinity mailing list. As postal rates continue to rise -- another two cents in May -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
Nutley Senior High School proudly presents The Producers, the Mel Brooks musical comedy. Come see our very own seniors--Sean Ulley, Miles Mueller and Danny Fornasa, who have been practicing for months. Performances are at 8:00 pm on Thursday through Saturday, March 5-7th and there will also be a Sunday matinee on March 8th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are available through the high school--$18.00 reserved and $12.00 for general admission. (973) 661-8846
Emily Jones to Conduct Civic Band
The Bloomfield Civic Band will present a concert at 3:00 PM on Sunday, March 8 at Bloomfield Middle School, 60 Huck Rd. In honor of National Women’s History Month, several women from the band will conduct portions of the program. Emily Jones will conduct The Carousel Waltz. Tickets are $8; students and seniors are $5 and those 12 and under are free. (973) 338-8140
Using E-mail to Make, Keep and Invite Friends.
Communication is vital to any relationship. That includes your relationship with others groups, teams and ministries going on at Holy Trinity. E-mail puts a powerful communication tool at our fingertips. Not only can we stay informed about news, events and happenings in the Holy Trinity community, but we are able to share that news with our friends as well by passing the information along to them or inviting them to be part of the Holy Trinity mailing list. As postal rates continue to rise -- another two cents in May -- we are trying to distribute more and more of our information electronically. If you haven't already shared your e-mail address with the church office, please consider doing so by sending an e-mail with ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST in the subject line to office.htlcnutley@verizon.net.
MARCH BIRTHDAYS, ANNIVERSARIES, AND DISCIPLES
Birthdays
7:Larry Stevens, Tom Stevens
8:John Denkinger
15:Catherine Rubens
18:David Van Houten
20:Kristin Osnato
23:Brianna Davey
Anniversaries
15:Betty and Martin Futyma
Disciples
2:Stefeny Krombholz
3:Jakob Krombholz
4:Luke Krombholz
5:Chao Lin
6:Agee Lin
7:Joyc Lin
9:Jeff Lin
10:Jared Lin
11:Edith Lodge
12:John Lovas
13:Judi Lovas
14:Rebecca Lovas
16:Kay Ludwig
17:Janette Lutz
18:Betty Mack
19:Tony Maguire
20:Nancy Maguire
21:Miriam Mascola
23:Gerald Mayr
24:Otto Mayr
25:Hedy Mayr
26:Bernd Mayr
27:Carlos Medina
28:Grace Medina
30:Elaine Miller
31:Lois Milner
7:Larry Stevens, Tom Stevens
8:John Denkinger
15:Catherine Rubens
18:David Van Houten
20:Kristin Osnato
23:Brianna Davey
Anniversaries
15:Betty and Martin Futyma
Disciples
2:Stefeny Krombholz
3:Jakob Krombholz
4:Luke Krombholz
5:Chao Lin
6:Agee Lin
7:Joyc Lin
9:Jeff Lin
10:Jared Lin
11:Edith Lodge
12:John Lovas
13:Judi Lovas
14:Rebecca Lovas
16:Kay Ludwig
17:Janette Lutz
18:Betty Mack
19:Tony Maguire
20:Nancy Maguire
21:Miriam Mascola
23:Gerald Mayr
24:Otto Mayr
25:Hedy Mayr
26:Bernd Mayr
27:Carlos Medina
28:Grace Medina
30:Elaine Miller
31:Lois Milner
SAVE THE DATE!
The NJ Synod’s 20th Annual Conference on Congregational Ministries will be held on Saturday, March 28th from 8:00 am-3:30 pm at Steinert High School in Hamilton Square, NJ. This year’s theme is “Opening the Book of Faith: Come and Follow Jesus for the Sake of the World.” The Rev. Timothy J. Wengert from the Philadelphia Seminary will be the keynote speaker. Put the date on your calendar and plan to attend with a group from Holy Trinity!
Share 10 Percent; Save 10 Percent; Live on 80 Percent
The current economic climate has many of us -- in the church and out of the church --looking to re-orient our lives and live a simpler, more responsible and faithful life as a disciple of Jesus Christ. This old principle served people well for years. There is nothing complicated about a principle of giving God the first 10 percent, saving the next 10 percent, and adjusting our lifestyle so we can live on the remaining 80 percent. How much we SHARE, SAVE, and SPEND speaks volumes about us as the people of God. This Lent, get back to basics, take steps toward living a fuller, more hopeful, more generous life. But don't do it alone, ask a friend or relative to make the journey with you, and tell us how it is going.
Share 10 Percent
When we give our first 10 percent to God, we give the Lord our first fruits and give proportionately. Recorded in Proverbs 3:9 (NRSV) are these words, "Honor the Lord with your substance, with the first fruits of all your produce." We acknowledge God to be the creator and provider of all things. Consequently, we are simply returning to God what God has given to us. As the Apostle Paul says, "What do you have that you did not receive?" (1 Cor. 4:7 NRSV).
Save 10 Percent
When we save 10 percent, we demonstrate discipline and an orientation for the future. When we save faithfully, we maintain better control of our financial future and avoid much of the stress and anxiety experienced by those who continually spend their entire paycheck. To reach this goal, we need to follow the simple principles of saving more and saving systematically.
Spend 80 Percent
God does not give us specifics about the cars we drive, the homes we live in, or the clothes we wear. God does, however, "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God who provides us with everything for our enjoyment." (1 Tim. 6:17). God provides more than we need for food and shelter. God does this for our enjoyment. Living comfortably is not a sin. Living with an arrogant attitude, however, is displeasing to God. Putting our hope and trust in something other than God is futile. To live on 80 percent of our income, we need to control spending. Impulsive spending must stop. If we consider the purchase of an item not part of our spending plan, we must learn to say "no." We need to examine how much we spend on non-essentials. Are we spending money to combat loneliness or boredom? Are we spending out of envy? Guard against becoming a victim of the foolish desires money can create. Control debt and budget wisely.
Share 10 Percent
When we give our first 10 percent to God, we give the Lord our first fruits and give proportionately. Recorded in Proverbs 3:9 (NRSV) are these words, "Honor the Lord with your substance, with the first fruits of all your produce." We acknowledge God to be the creator and provider of all things. Consequently, we are simply returning to God what God has given to us. As the Apostle Paul says, "What do you have that you did not receive?" (1 Cor. 4:7 NRSV).
Save 10 Percent
When we save 10 percent, we demonstrate discipline and an orientation for the future. When we save faithfully, we maintain better control of our financial future and avoid much of the stress and anxiety experienced by those who continually spend their entire paycheck. To reach this goal, we need to follow the simple principles of saving more and saving systematically.
Spend 80 Percent
God does not give us specifics about the cars we drive, the homes we live in, or the clothes we wear. God does, however, "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God who provides us with everything for our enjoyment." (1 Tim. 6:17). God provides more than we need for food and shelter. God does this for our enjoyment. Living comfortably is not a sin. Living with an arrogant attitude, however, is displeasing to God. Putting our hope and trust in something other than God is futile. To live on 80 percent of our income, we need to control spending. Impulsive spending must stop. If we consider the purchase of an item not part of our spending plan, we must learn to say "no." We need to examine how much we spend on non-essentials. Are we spending money to combat loneliness or boredom? Are we spending out of envy? Guard against becoming a victim of the foolish desires money can create. Control debt and budget wisely.
FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO GET BACK TO BASICS THIS LENT
Here are four simple ways to get back to basics by making use of the activities we have in place at Holy Trinity this Lent. Through them, I believe God will be at work transforming our lives and the way we live.
1. Worship every Sunday. Here is the one place in life where all the basics of the Christian faith come together. The triune God is present in our assembly, giving God's gifts of forgiveness, life and salvation through God's Word and the Sacrament. Here together we pray, read and discuss scripture, share stories of God's powerful deeds, fellowship with our brothers and sisters, give generously, and hear God's call to go out and serve.
2. Come to the Soup Suppers. A simple, basic meal of hearty soup and bread. It's the ultimate recession-buster meal, but with no hint of scarcity because it is a shared meal. There is always more than enough, so invite your friends. And, once over the course of the five-weeks, please bring a pot of your soup or some of your favorite bread to share with everyone else.
3. Participate in the Bible study and book discussion. A chance to get out of the house, interact with people, exercise your mind and your heart as together we consider how we can more effectively share God's love for the world. Give up a night of mindless entertainment and replace it with community-building, faith growing fellowship and conversation.
4. Give a tenth. It seems most people are cutting back on excess spending. That is good. But I wonder if we could, at the same time, increase our giving. As we more closely scrutinize our spending, perhaps we could be more liberal with our giving and in that way be open to God to transform our lives and change our identity from spenders and consumers to givers.
There is a common thread in all the stories I have heard of God at work in challenging economic times: the generosity of God's people changes the lives of both those who give and those who receive. I challenge you to give a tithe, a tenth, this Lenten season if you are not doing so already. If you are giving at that level, look for opportunities to give even more. Between Feb. 25 and April 12, go ahead and give a full 10 percent of your income. As you do, keep a journal of the experience and share your experiences and your reflections with the rest of us.
So there it is, four simple and easy ways to get back to basics: Worship every Sunday. Come to the Soup suppers with friends. Participate in Bible study and book discussions. Give a tenth. It's back to basics. And the basics are good. Let's do it together as a community for the next six weeks. Then, let's get together and talk about how God has been working to change our lives and the way we live ... in Jesus name.
1. Worship every Sunday. Here is the one place in life where all the basics of the Christian faith come together. The triune God is present in our assembly, giving God's gifts of forgiveness, life and salvation through God's Word and the Sacrament. Here together we pray, read and discuss scripture, share stories of God's powerful deeds, fellowship with our brothers and sisters, give generously, and hear God's call to go out and serve.
2. Come to the Soup Suppers. A simple, basic meal of hearty soup and bread. It's the ultimate recession-buster meal, but with no hint of scarcity because it is a shared meal. There is always more than enough, so invite your friends. And, once over the course of the five-weeks, please bring a pot of your soup or some of your favorite bread to share with everyone else.
3. Participate in the Bible study and book discussion. A chance to get out of the house, interact with people, exercise your mind and your heart as together we consider how we can more effectively share God's love for the world. Give up a night of mindless entertainment and replace it with community-building, faith growing fellowship and conversation.
4. Give a tenth. It seems most people are cutting back on excess spending. That is good. But I wonder if we could, at the same time, increase our giving. As we more closely scrutinize our spending, perhaps we could be more liberal with our giving and in that way be open to God to transform our lives and change our identity from spenders and consumers to givers.
There is a common thread in all the stories I have heard of God at work in challenging economic times: the generosity of God's people changes the lives of both those who give and those who receive. I challenge you to give a tithe, a tenth, this Lenten season if you are not doing so already. If you are giving at that level, look for opportunities to give even more. Between Feb. 25 and April 12, go ahead and give a full 10 percent of your income. As you do, keep a journal of the experience and share your experiences and your reflections with the rest of us.
So there it is, four simple and easy ways to get back to basics: Worship every Sunday. Come to the Soup suppers with friends. Participate in Bible study and book discussions. Give a tenth. It's back to basics. And the basics are good. Let's do it together as a community for the next six weeks. Then, let's get together and talk about how God has been working to change our lives and the way we live ... in Jesus name.
CAPE COD TRIP!
The First Lutheran Church Care Committee (First Lutheran Church, Montclair), along with White Star Tours, is planning a five-day, four-night trip to Cape Cod, MA from Monday, June 22nd through Friday, June 26th, 2009.
The special price for the package is $499.00 per person based on double occupancy (add an additional $99.00 for single occupancy). The rate includes transportation, four nights lodging, four dinners, breakfasts, a tour of Martha’s Vineyard, and much more. All taxes and gratuities are included. A $25.00 per person deposit is required by Tuesday, March 10, 2009. Final payment is due by
Friday, April 24, 2009.
First Lutheran is located at 153 Park Street, Montclair, (973) 744-6043. Please contact Bobbie McMillan at (973) 228-3097 for questions and sign-up sheets for the trip.
The special price for the package is $499.00 per person based on double occupancy (add an additional $99.00 for single occupancy). The rate includes transportation, four nights lodging, four dinners, breakfasts, a tour of Martha’s Vineyard, and much more. All taxes and gratuities are included. A $25.00 per person deposit is required by Tuesday, March 10, 2009. Final payment is due by
Friday, April 24, 2009.
First Lutheran is located at 153 Park Street, Montclair, (973) 744-6043. Please contact Bobbie McMillan at (973) 228-3097 for questions and sign-up sheets for the trip.
EASTER FLOWER ORDER FORM
If you would like to purchase Easter plants, please return the form along with your payment, by Sunday, March 15th. You may take home your plant(s) after Easter Worship, or you may leave it for our members who are homebound or ill.
Name/Envelope#: _______________________________/#_______
In Honor Of: ________________________________________
In Memory Of: ________________________________________
No. of Lilies: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Daffodils: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Hyacinths: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Tulips: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Pompoms: ______@ $3.50 each = $__________
TOTAL ENCLOSED $__________
Name/Envelope#: _______________________________/#_______
In Honor Of: ________________________________________
In Memory Of: ________________________________________
No. of Lilies: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Daffodils: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Hyacinths: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Tulips: ______@ $9.00 each = $__________
No. of Pompoms: ______@ $3.50 each = $__________
TOTAL ENCLOSED $__________
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