Saturday December 1, 2007
Property Committee meets at 9:00 a.m.
Home Communion Training from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
December 2, 2007
First Sunday of Advent (Liturgical Color: Blue)
The liturgy is reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, setting 3, copyright © 2006 by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: Rhapsody in D-flat, Op. 17, No. 1 — Herbert Howells
Entrance Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 244)
Hymn During the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanza 1
Homily: "Seeking the Real" — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: The King Shall Come (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 260)
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: He Comes to Us as One Unknown — (arrangement John Ferguson)
(Adult Choir)
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: What Feast of Love (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 487)
Communion Hymn: Soul, Adorn Yourself With Gladness (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 488)
Sending Hymn: Lo, He Comes With Clouds Descending (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 435)
Postlude: Prelude in C — Edward Bairstow
Presider: Pastor Kelli Skram
Deacon: Alison Kaiser
Lector: David Ellies
Acolyte: Alex Nixon
Server: Linda Zellmer
Ushers: Jim and Marti Doering
Greeters: Darrell and Kathleen Boggess
Nursery: Ronna Papesh
Council Coordinator: Rick Stults
Godly Play meets in the new Godly play room next to the nursery.
Grades K — 6th gather in rooms 14 & 15.
Confirmation Class meets in room 16.
High School Youth meet in the new youth room.
Adult Bible Study meets in Room 12. The group will be studying the gospels focussing on the words spoken by Jesus.
Culture of Conversation at 9:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Adult Forum: The AIDS Pandemic, Mission Committee in Heritage Hall
The liturgy is reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, setting 3, copyright © 2006 by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: Rhapsody in D-flat, Op. 17, No. 1 — Herbert Howells
Entrance Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 244)
Hymn During the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanza 1
Homily: "Seeking the Real" — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: The King Shall Come (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 260)
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: O God of Love — John Corigiliano
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: What Feast of Love (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 487)
Communion Hymn: Soul, Adorn Yourself With Gladness (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 488)
Sending Hymn: Lo, He Comes With Clouds Descending (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 435)
Postlude: Prelude in C — Edward Bairstow
Presider: Pastor Kelli Skram
Deacon: Margrethe O'Connor
Lector: Doug Bauder
Acolyte: John Isaacson
Server: Deborah O'Brien
Ushers: Dave Pavolka and Jennifer Garl
Greeter: Marcy Grupenhoff
Nursery: Sandy and Sydney Arnold
Council Coordinator: Jennifer Garl
Altar Care: Shirley Mingee and Reneé Steele
Bread and Wine: Bob and Joan Burt
Flowers: Gary and Helen Ingersoll
Advent Workshop
Youth Group meets at 5:30 p.m.
"Find Your Fit" Part II: Spiritual Gifts
The QuarryLand Men's Chorus is pleased to present its winter concert "Home for the Holidays", featuring John Rutter's "Gloria", complete with brass and organ accompaniment. Rounding out the program are a variety of seasonal pieces including traditional favorites, dome familiar tune with a twist, and contemporary melodies the audience is sure to love.
The concert will begin at 4:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 219 East 4th Street. Standard admission is $10 ($8 senior/student admission) and tickets are available at Flowers and Interiors and BLU Boy Chocolate or online at quarryland.org
Monday December 3, 2007
Monica Alexandra Harper's Organ recital at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Prélude et danse fuguée — Gaston Litaize
"There is a time for everything under heaven . . . a time to mourn, and a time to DANCE"
Apparatus musico-organisticus: "Toccata prima" — Georg Muffat
"O LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, who is enthroned above the cherubim, You are the God, You alone of all the kingdoms of earth."
Congregational Hymn: All Glory Be to God on High (Allein Gott in der Höh)
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men"
Two Choral Preludes — Johann Sebastian Bach
Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr', BWV 662
Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr', BWV 664
Suite, Op. 5 — Maurice Duruflé
Prélude
"The cords of death entangled me. The anguish of the grave came upon me. I was overcome by trouble and sorrow"
Sicilienne
"Then I called on the name of the Lord, 'O LORD, save me and deliver me!"
Toccata
"The Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is my Strength and Song, and He has become my salvation."
Worship Committee meets at 7:00 p.m. in Room 17.
Basketball at 7:00 p.m.
Shalom Community Center has committed to provide volunteers to work a concession stand during nine Indiana University basketball games. Through this effort we hope to raise at least $5000, but we need volunteers!
Volunteers need to indicate whether they can arrive two or three hours prior to the game. The stand closes down before the games are over, so most of the time, everyone will be finished with the clean-up and ready to leave by the time the games are over, or shortly thereafter.
[ELCA News: ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson's Christmas Message 2007]
[ENS News: Candidates invited for Director of Mission position]
[ENS News: San Joaquin bishop asked to 'reconsider, draw back' from withdrawal efforts]
[NCC News: Luncheon named for Claire Randall honors women who led the way]
[PNS News: Self-Development of People announces grant recipients]
[PNS News: Former GA vice-moderator and Board of Pensions chair Gene Sibery dies]
[UCC News: UCC chaplain leads prayers at weekend D.C. protest of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell']
Francis Xavier, missionary in Asia, 1552 (Liturgical Color: White)
Tuesday December 4, 2007
Adult Choir rehearses from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
[ELCA News: ELCA Bishop Mark Hanson Featured in CBS's 'In God's Name' Dec. 23]
[ENS News: Winterlight youth conference partners with Stop Hunger Now to teach teens about MDGs]
[PNS News: Mission Challenge '07 transforms a congregation’s Mission Fair]
[PNS News: Valentine issues appeal for missionary support]
John of Damascus, theologian and hymnwriter, c. 749 (Liturgical Color: White)
December 5 to 12, 2007
Wednesday December 5, 2007
Advent Worship at noon in the Sanctuary
"Sacred Texts, Borrowed Song"
Advent Worship at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary
"Sacred Texts, Borrowed Song"
Men's Group meets at 7:30 p.m.
[ACNS News: 50 Million Bibles printed in China and Jesus film DVD released in 8 languages]
[ENS News: Elderly refugees have specific needs, Migration Ministries director tells Senate committee]
[ENS News: San Joaquin bishop responds to warning from Presiding Bishop]
[ENS News: Griswold installed as Canon for Interfaith and International Mission at New York's St. John the Divine]
[ENS News: St. Nicholas, aka James M. Rosenthal, brings Christmas cheer to the streets of New York]
[LWF News: LWF Calls Israeli, Palestinian Leaders to Urgently Pursue Annapolis Objective]
[LWF News: LWF Publication Develops Theological Insights to Resist the Domination of Empire Today]
[LWF News: Religious Leaders Play Fundamental Role in Confronting Climate Change Challenges]
[PNS News: Greater reliance on God's grace can make church more faithful, mission pastors told]
[PNS News: Burger King hears from farmworkers and PC(USA)]
Thursday December 6, 2007
Finance Committee meets at 6:00 p.m. in Room 17.
Adult Choir rehearses at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
[ACNS News: Archbishop of Canterbury — why social cohesion needs religion]
[ENS News: Episcopal educators gather in the Dominican Republic]
[ENS News: Support the Second Chance Act to invest in prisoner re-entry programs, EPPN urges]
[ENS News: Philippine military aid must be limited, adhere to human rights, Church leaders tell Congress]
[PNS News: Souper fund-raising event takes a bite out of hunger]
[PNS News: Form of Government Task Force revises documents based on denomination-wide comments]
[WCC News: Ecumenical conference to tackle racist patterns left by slave trade]
Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, c. 342 (Liturgical Color: White)
Friday December 7, 2007
[ELCA News: Mensaje Navideño de 2007 del Obispo Presidente de la IELA]
[ELCA News: ELCA Nebraska Bishop Addresses Shooting at Westroads Mall, Omaha]
[ENS News: President of the House of Deputies issues statement after meeting with Council of Advice]
[PNS News: Romney speech may quiet some critics, but not all]
[PNS News: When happy holidays means no gifts]
[PNS News: PDA New Orleans coordinator dies in car crash]
[RCA News: Prayer Ministry Builds Bridges on Staten Island]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: Response to Romney Speech on Religion]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: Street Children of Brazil]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: Daughters of Abraham Book Club]
[UCC News: UCC names J. Bennett Guess to direct denomination's communication efforts]
Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, 397 (Liturgical Color: White)
Saturday December 8, 2007
Adult Choir rehearses from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
Christmas Decoration preparation at 10:00 a.m.
Youth Group meets at 7:00 p.m. at the Arena for "Lunar" Ice Skating.
I-K Synod Global Mission Meeting from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the I-K Synod Downstairs Conference Room
Basketball at 7:00 p.m.
Shalom Community Center has committed to provide volunteers to work a concession stand during nine Indiana University basketball games. Through this effort we hope to raise at least $5000, but we need volunteers!
Volunteers need to indicate whether they can arrive two or three hours prior to the game. The stand closes down before the games are over, so most of the time, everyone will be finished with the clean-up and ready to leave by the time the games are over, or shortly thereafter.
Voices Unheard: Come witness Darfur Refugee's stories through a theatrical presentation Performed by Taylor University's Community-Based Performance Troupe at 8:00 pm at come2go ministries 323 W Baker St Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Voices Unheard dramatizes what officials have described as an "ethnic cleansing" campaign by a group of Arab militiamen known as the Janjaweed. Some stories also depict refugee life here in the United States and the struggles of adjusting to life in a foreign land.
Voices Unheard also illustrates the Darfuri's extreme longing to help friends and family still trapped in Darfur.
This event is a partnership of the Recclamation Project, Taylor University Upland Students and under the direction of Dr. Linda Welker.
The event is free and open to the public, but ticket reservations are needed — Contact Judy Kirkwood at 765-998-5289 for reservations.
December 9, 2007
Second Sunday of Advent (Liturgical Color: Blue)
The Liturgy is reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, setting 3 copyright © 2006 by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: Chorale Preludes on "Comfort, comfort now my people — Egil Hovland and Gerald Near
Entrance Hymn: Prepare the Royal Highway (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 264)
Hymn during the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanzas 1 and 2
Homily: Pastor Kelli Skram
Hymn of the Day: There is a Voice in the Wilderness Crying (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 255)
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming — Johannes Brahms
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 272)
Communion Hymn: Creator of the Stars at Night (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 245)
Sending Hymn: Come With Us, O Blessed Jesus (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 501)
Postlude: Homage to Perotin — Myron Roberts
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Alison Kaiser
Lector: Walt Wood
Acolyte: Sarah Julovich
Server: Jean Brown
Ushers: Frank and Mary Lou Nierzwicki
Greeters: Jerry and Betty Smith
Nursery: Pauline Caldwell
Council Coordinator: Nancy Winningham
Godly Play meets in the new Godly play room next to the nursery.
Grades K — 6th gather in rooms 14 & 15.
Confirmation Class meets in room 16.
High School Youth meet in the new youth room.
Adult Bible Study meets in Room 12. The group will be studying the gospels focusing on the words spoken by Jesus.
The Liturgy is reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, setting 3 copyright © 2006 by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: Chorale Preludes on "Comfort, comfort now my people — Egil Hovland and Gerald Near
Entrance Hymn: Prepare the Royal Highway (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 264)
Hymn during the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanzas 1 and 2
Homily: Pastor Kelli Skram
Hymn of the Day: There is a Voice in the Wilderness Crying (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 255)
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: Comfort, Comfort — (arrangement John Ferguson)
(Adult Choir)
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 272)
Communion Hymn: Creator of the Stars at Night (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 245)
Sending Hymn: Come With Us, O Blessed Jesus (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 501)
Postlude: Homage to Perotin — Myron Roberts
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Margrethe O'Connor
Lector: Chris Ogan
Acolyte: Hannah Fidler
Server: Allan Mayfield
Ushers: Kaye Hill and Deborah Owens
Greeters: Tim and Debbie Moore
Nursery: LeAnn Lipe and Sarah Isaacson
Council Coordinator: Nancy Winningham
Altar Care: Jean Brown and Susan Lehr
Bread and Wine: Rick and Susan Goldsworthy
Flowers: Jim and Kay Eagleman
No Student Lunch today—Instead join Episcopal Campus Ministry for worship at Beck Chapel, 5:00 p.m. and then come to the University Club Faculty Room for an early Christmas dinner sponsored by the LCM Board.
Hanging of the Greens, following the late service
Advent Abendmusik at 4:00 p.m.
Abendmusik (literally 'evening music') refers to the tradition of Lutheran concerts of sacred vocal and intrumental music, specifically those of seventeenth-century Germany. The St. Thomas Adult and Children's Choirs will combine for their own Abendmusik in a program celebrating Advent and the birth of Jesus, as well as some other seasonal favorites.
Processional: Comfort, Comfort Now My People — (arrangement John Ferguson)
Arise, Shine — John Rutter
Drop Down Dew,O Heavens (Rorate coeli) — Robert Twynham
(Carolyn Sowinski, soprano Alan Dunbar, bass)
Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme, BWV 140: "Zion hört die Wächter singen" — Johann Sebastian Bach
(Mailyn Fidler, violin)
I Sing of a Maiden — Patrick Hadley
Ave Maria — Simon Lindley
(Carolyn Sowinski, soprano Alison Kaiser, alto)
Creator of the Stars at Night
Good King Wenceslas (arrangement David Willcocks)
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming — Johannes Brahms
(organ solo)
He Comes To Us As One Unknown (arrangement John Ferguson)
Here's a Pretty Little Baby (arrangement André Thomas)
(Rachel Erie, soprano Matthew Wells, tenor)
Jingle, Bells — James Pierpont (arrangement David Willcocks)
Congregation Council meets at 6:00 p.m.
Monday December 10, 2007
Bloomington Community Band rehearses at 7:00 p.m. in Heritage Hall.
[ACNS News: Archbishop of Canterbury names new Representative to the Holy See]
[ELCA News: ELCA Closes Mosaic Television with 'The Life of Apostle Peter']
[ENS News: House of Deputies president issues statement following San Joaquin action]
[ENS News: Archbishop did not endorse Southern Cone's invitation to San Joaquin, Anglican Communion spokesman says]
[ENS News: Presiding Bishop's Christmas message]
[PNS News: Iraqis find refuge in land of lutefisk and Lutherans]
[PNS News: Church groups oppose U.S. restrictions on HIV-positive travelers]
[PNS News: Riverside Presbytery partners with Joining Hearts & Hands in $500,000 campaign]
[PNS News: Two Presbyterians arrested in annual Fort Benning protest]
Tuesday December 11, 2007
On Tuesday Dec. 11 at 6:30 PM, all of the Bloomington community is invited to attend an event of solidarity in response to an act of removing the letters "JEWISH" from the Chabad House on 518 E. 7th St. that created intimidation and fear among its residents and users.
Meet on the side yard next to the Chabad House. Rabbi Yehoshua will say a few brief words and introduce a Chanuka candle lighting—9 individuals representing various co-sponsors of the event will hold the lighted candles. Following brief presentations by local dignitaries, there will be some music and a closing.
[ENS News: Continuing Episcopalians making plans to reconstitute Diocese of San Joaquin]
[PNS News: Colorado shootings reflect big threats at big churches]
[WCC News: Churches want to see a new paradigm on climate change]
Wednesday December 12, 2007
St. Thomas Retired Group annual Advent/Christmas Potluck
We'll meet at 11:00 a.m. for the main part of the meal, and as we did last year, gather in the Sanctuary for Noon Advent Worship Service. Following the service, we'll return to Community Hall for dessert and coffee.
Dessert will be provided. Please bring a main dish, salad or vegetable and your own plates and tableware. Please email Betty Smith or Jane Warner if you can attend. Do plan to come and share your favorite recipe.
All St. Thomas members and friends are welcome to join us, especially those planning to attend the Noon Advent Worship.
Advent Worship at noon in the Sanctuary
"Texts in Dialogue: Water on a Desert Road"
Advent Worship at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
"Texts in Dialogue: Water on a Desert Road"
Spiritual Journaling Group meets at 7:00 p.m. in Room 12.
Mutual Ministry Committee meets at 7:00&bsp;p.m. in Room 17.
[ELCA News: Everyday Lutherans Working in Mission and Ministry Overseas]
[ENS News: International Anglican group initiates 'strategy of inclusion']
[ENS News: ERD responds to flooding in Cuba, South Dakota]
[PNS News: Want to Give God Joy?]
[PNS News: New Fair Trade Web site launched]
Thursday December 13, 2007
Adult Choir rehearses at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
Christian Education Committee meets at 7:00 p.m. in Room 17.
Mission Committee meets at 7:00 p.m. in Room 12.
[ELCA News: ELCA Advocacy Offices Purchase Carbon Offset Credits]
[ENS News: ERD assists people affected by storms in the Pacific Northwest]
[PNS News: 'Be Still and Know that I Am God']
Lucy, martyr, 304 (Liturgical Color: Red)
Friday December 14, 2007
[ACNS News: Steps Forward for Anglican — Methodist Relations]
[ACNS News: Anglican Observer at the UN: a Year in Review]
[ACNS News: Archbishop of Canterbury's Christmas Message to the Anglican Communion]
[ACNS News: Archbishop of Canterbury's Advent Letter]
[ELCA News: ELCA shares holiday ideas for the 'Twelve Days of Christmas']
[ENS News: San Joaquin bishop asked to confirm status after vote to leave the Episcopal Church]
[PNS News: PHEWA seeks ministry award nominees]
[PNS News: A tree on a hill]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: Alzheimer's Testing]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: Mississippi Christmas]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: The Hajj]
[UCC News: 'We three kings' are mostly unknown]
John of the Cross, renewer of the church, 1591 (Liturgical Color: White)
Saturday December 15, 2007
Sunday Church School dress rehearsal from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
December 16, 2007
Third Sunday of Advent (Liturgical Color: Blue)
The Liturgy is reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, setting 3 copyright © 2006 by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: Benedictus, Op. 59 — Max Reger
Entrance Hymn: O Lord, How Shall I Meet You (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 241)
Hymn during the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanzas 1—3
Homily: "Seeking a Savior" — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: All Earth Is Hopeful (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 266)
During the Hymn, children may come forward to hang Chrismons on the tree
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: Drop Down Dew, O Heavens — Robert Twynham
(Adult Choir)
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Blessed Be the God of Israel (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 250)
Communion Hymn: Lost in the Night (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 243)
Sending Hymn: Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 475)
Postlude: The King Shall Come — David N. Johnson
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Gary Ingersoll
Lector: Steve Frampton
Acolyte: Jacob Buhr
Server: Kay Isaacson
Ushers: Jim and Marti Doering
Greeters: Bruce and Susan Colston
Nursery: Nancy Winningham
Council Coordinator: David Nixon
Sunday Church School Children's Christmas Program at 10:00 a.m.
The Liturgy is reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, setting 3 copyright © 2006 by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: Benedictus, Op. 59 — Max Reger
Entrance Hymn: O Lord, How Shall I Meet You (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 241)
Hymn during the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanzas 1—3
Homily: "Seeking a Savior" — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: All Earth Is Hopeful (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 266)
During the Hymn, children may come forward to hang Chrismons on the tree
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: Prelude on "Forest Green" — Craig Phillips
(organ voluntary)
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Blessed Be the God of Israel (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 250)
Communion Hymn: Lost in the Night (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 243)
Sending Hymn: Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 475)
Postlude: The King Shall Come — David N. Johnson
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Eric Isaacson
Lector: Deb Moore
Acolyte: Haley Garl
Server: Dorothy Soudakoff
Ushers: Melissa and Ben Eichmiller
Greeters: Chris Ogan
Nursery: Vicki and David Polansky
Council Coordinator: Deborah O'Brien
Altar Care: Betty Smith and Deborah O'Brien
Bread and Wine: Allan and Helen Mayfield
Flowers: Pauline Caldwell
Caroling at 4:45 p.m.
Please join the Junior and Senior High Youth for Christmas Caroling!
We will carpool to members' homes and area nursing homes. There will be post-caroling food and fun. Everyone is welcome!
Youth Group meets at 5:30 p.m.
Unspecified Christmas-y things. More details to come.
Monday December 17, 2007
January Newsletter Deadline
Bloomington Commmunity Band rehearses at 7:00 p.m. in Heritage Hall.
Spinners and Weavers meets at 7:00 p.m.
[ACNS News: The Inter-Anglican Standing Commission on Ecumenical Relations]
[NCC News: NCC fills two more staff positions]
[PNS News: Documentary explores scripture and homosexuality, while also telling five families' journeys]
[PNS News: Disaster response impresses relief officials north and south of the border]
[WCC News: Reparation needed to address transatlantic slave trade]
Tuesday December 18, 2007
[ELCA News: ELCA Synod Bishop, Other Faith Leaders Urge Reauthorization of PEPFAR]
[ENS News: Too many Episcopalians were silent on slavery, Massachusetts bishop tells Congressional committee]
[LWF News: LWF Urges Youth to Join Centennial Prayer Events for Christian Unity]
[LWF News: Canada's Joint Anglican-Lutheran Commission Commends Church Collaboration]
[LWF News: LWF President Hanson Among World Religious Leaders Featured on Television Program]
[LWF News: Church of Norway Synod Agrees Procedure for Clergy in Same-Sex Partnerships]
[LWF News: Saxon Church Leader Bohl Is New VELKD Deputy Bishop]
[LWF News: LWF Council Theme: "Melting Snow on Mount Kilimanjaro — Christian Witness Amidst the Suffering Creation"]
[UCC News: UCC media justice advocates condemn FCC decision to relax ownership rules]
Wednesday December 19, 2007
Advent Worship at noon in the Sanctuary
"Texts Recovered: She's Still There"
Advent Worship at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary
"Texts Recovered: She's Still There"
[ENS News: Climate change action a moral imperative for justice, Canterbury says]
[ENS News: Common Cause Leadership Council outlines plans for an 'Anglican union']
[PNS News: Web-based video project seeks youths' interpretation of Micah 6:8]
Thursday December 20, 2007
Adult Choir rehearses at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
[ENS News: CBS special 'In God's Name' to feature Archbishop of Canterbury, other faith leaders]
[LWF News: Affirming Indigenous People as Equal Partners]
[LWF News: A Balancing Act - LWF 15 Years in the Balkans]
[LWF News: LWF Executive Committee Action on Church Conflict Issue]
[PNS News: Columbia seminary official to preach on 'Day 1']
[WCC News: Ecumenical initiative to accompany churches in conflict situations]
[WCC News: Ecumenical Centre welcomes youth from Europe and beyond]
Katharine von Bora Luther, renewer of the church, 1552 (Liturgical Color: White)
Friday December 21, 2007
Wedding rehearsal
[ACNS News: All Africa Anglican - Lutheran Commission, Communique]
[ELCA News: ELCA Supports Relief Efforts in Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, Mexico]
[ELCA News: St. James Lutheran Church featured in AgriBusiness Today, Dec. 22-24">]
[ENS News: When 'Joy to the World' is hard to capture, Blue Christmas services help]
[ENS News: Central, Southern California newspapers will carry Episcopal Church advertisement]
[LWF News: LWF Churches Urged to Act on Human Rights, Illegitimate Debt and Climate Change in 2008]
[LWF News: Joy of Living Returns After Tsunami Disaster]
[PNS News: Denationalized Forman Christian College sees rapid growth, especially Christian students]
[PNS News: More than 3,000 sweaters collected to keep Pittsburgh neighbors warm]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: A Look Back at the Year 2007]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: Star of Bethlehem]
[Religion and Ethics Newsweekly News: Faith, Values, and Foreign Policy]
Saturday December 22, 2007
Wedding — Shannon Smith
[LWF News: Latin American Lutheran and Presbyterian-Reformed Churches Joint Publication on Neo-Liberal Globalization]
[LWF News: Major Changes Foreseen for Danish Lutheran Church]
[LWF News: Württemberg Church Establishes Day to Commemorate Kristallnacht]
[LWF News: Danish Christians and Muslims Establish Joint Working Forum]
[LWF News: Finland: General Synod Welcomes 16-Year-Olds to Vote in Parish Elections]
[LWF News: Court Convicts Finnish Pastor Opposed to Conducting Service with Woman Clergy]
[LWF News: Staff Changes at Germany's Lutheran Church Body]
[LWF News: Regional Baden and Württemberg Protestant Synods Approve Church-State Agreement]
[LWF News: New Zealand's Lutheran Church Has New President, Robert Erickson]
[LWF News: ELCA Synod Bishop, Other Faith Leaders Urge Re-authorization of AIDS Plan]
[WCC News: Christmas Message from the General Secretary]
December 23, 2007
Fourth Sunday of Advent (Liturgical Color: Blue)
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: O Come, O Come Emmanuel — Heathcote Statham
Entrance Hymn: Oh Come, Oh Come Emmanuel (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 257)
Hymn during the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanzas 1—4
Homily: "On Earth as in Heaven" — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: Savior of the Nations, Come (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 263)
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: Savior of the Nations, Come — Helmut Walcha
(organ voluntary)
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 254)
Communion Hymn: Peace Came to the Earth (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 285)
Sending Hymn: Joy to the World (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 267)
Postlude: Flourish on "Joy to the World" — Michael Dell
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Gary Ingersoll
Lector: Sue Berg
Acolyte: David Polansky
Server: Jean Brown
Ushers: Gene and Gayl Laughman
Greeters: Ron and Jean Brown
Nursery: Mary Sasse
Council Coordinator: Melissa Eichmiller
Godly Play meets in the new Godly play room next to the nursery.
Grades K — 6th gather in rooms 14 & 15.
Confirmation Class meets in room 16.
High School Youth meet in the new youth room.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: O Come, O Come Emmanuel — Heathcote Statham
Entrance Hymn: Oh Come, Oh Come Emmanuel (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 257)
Hymn during the Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 240)
stanzas 1—4
Homily: "On Earth as in Heaven" — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: Savior of the Nations, Come (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 263)
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: Ave Maria
(Adult Choir)
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 254)
Communion Hymn: Peace Came to the Earth (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 285)
Sending Hymn: Joy to the World (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 267)
Postlude: Flourish on "Joy to the World" — Michael Dell
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Eric Isaacson
Lector: Sarah Isaacson
Acolyte: Mailyn Fidler
Server: Margrethe O'Connor
Ushers: Dean Arnold and Cindy Ohslund
Greeters: Dean and Sandy Arnold
Nursery: Mary Krupinski
Council Coordinator: Kari Isaacson
Altar Care: Mary Sasse and Pauline Caldwell
Bread and Wine: Frank and Mary Lou Nierzwicki
Flowers: Larry and Sue Berg
December 24 to 26, 2007
I-K Synod Office closed for Christmas holidays
Monday December 24, 2007
The Nativity of Our Lord — Christmas Eve (I) (Liturgical Color: White)
Prelude: Variations on "O, Come All Ye Faithful" — Charles Callahan
La Nativité — Jean Langlais
Entrance Rite
Entrance Hymn: O,Come All Ye Faithful (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 283
Hymn at the Blessing of the Christmas Tree: Go Tell It on the Mountain (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 290)
Stanzas 1-3
Service of the Word
Psalm Hymn: Joy to the World (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 267)
Gospel Verse: Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 283)
Stanza 4
Meditation: Hallowed Be Thy Name — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: Once in Royal David's City (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 269)
Offertory Anthem: From Heaven Above, To Earth I Come — Johann Pachelbel
Offertory Hymn: What Child is This (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 296)
Liturgy of the Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Away in a Manger (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 278)
Communion Hymn: Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 272)
Communion Hymn: I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 271)
The Service of Light
Children's Candle Procession: Silent Night (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 281)
Sending Hymn: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 270)
Postlude: Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella — Keith Chapman
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Betty Smith
Lector: Vicki Polansky
Acolyte: Allison Buhr
Server: Sue Berg
Ushers: Nixon Family
Greeters: Matt and Tiffany Shupe
Council Coordinator: Melissa Eichmiller
Bread and Wine: Dean and Sandy Arnold
Fellowship/Reception at 10:15 p.m.
Prelude: Variations on "O, Come All Ye Faithful" — Charles Callahan
From Heaven Above, To Earth I Come — Johann Pachelbel
La Nativité — Jean Langlais
Entrance Rite
Entrance Hymn: O,Come All Ye Faithful (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 283
Service of the Word
Response: Angels We Have Heard on High (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 289)
Meditation: Hallowed Be Thy Name — Pastor Lyle McKee
Hymn of the Day: Good Christian Friends Rejoice (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 288)
Offertory Anthem: Born On Earth The Divine Christ Child — (arrangement John Rutter)
(Adult Choir)
Offertory Hymn: What Child is This (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 296)
Liturgy of the Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Oh Little Town of Bethlehem (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 279)
Communion Hymn: 'Twas in the Moon of Wintertime (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 284)
Post-Communion Hymn: On Christmas Night (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 274)
The Service of Light
Hymn: Of the Father's Love Begotten (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 295)
Stanzas 1 and 5
Hymn: Silent Night, Holy Night (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 281)
Recessional Hymn: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 270)
Postlude: Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella — Keith Chapman
Presider: Pastor Lyle McKee
Deacon: Eric Isaacson
Lector: Dorothy Soudakoff
Acolyte: Sarah Julovich
Server: Kaye Hill
Usher: Gene and Gayl Laughman
Greeter: Deborah O'Brien
Council Coordinator: Nancy Winningham
Altar Care: Betty Smith
Flowers: Dean and Sandy Arnold
Bread and Wine: Jim and Kay Eagleman
December 25 to January 2
St. Thomas Church Offices Closed
Tuesday December 25, 2007
The Nativity of Our Lord — Christmas Dawn (II) (Liturgical Color: White)
The Nativity of Our Lord — Christmas Day (III) (Liturgical Color: White)
[ACNS News: Archbishop of Canterbury's Christmas Day Sermon]
December 26, 2007 to January 1, 2008
Kwanzaa - Interfaith
Wednesday December 26, 2007
[ENS News: ERD commemorates Indian Ocean tsunami's third anniversary]
[RCA News: Campbell's Ministry Honored at CPAAM Gathering]
[RCA News: Congregation Strengthens Relationship with Local Inner-City Ministry]
Stephen, Deacon and Martyr (Liturgical Color: Red)
Thursday December 27, 2007
[NCC News: NCC leaders express dismay at Bhutto's murder]
John, Apostle and Evangelist (Liturgical Color: White)
Friday December 28, 2007
[Religion and Ethics Newsletter News: Look Ahead to 2008]
[Religion and Ethics Newsletter News: Liam Lawton]
[Religion and Ethics Newsletter News: Faith, Values, and Foreign Policy]
The Holy Innocents, Martyrs (Liturgical Color: Red)
Saturday December 29, 2007
December 30, 2007
First Sunday after Christmas (Liturgical Color: White)
The Liturgy is reprinted from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, setting 4, copright © 2006 by permission of Augsburg Fortress.
A Time of Preparation
Prelude: Selected Carols
Entrance Hymn: The First Noel (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 300)
Hymn of Praise: Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 276)
Psalm Hymn: Joy to the World (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 267)
Homily: Doug Bauder
Hymn of the Day: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 288)
Responses to the Word
Offertory Anthem: I Wonder as I Wander (Appalachian Carol, adaptation John J. Niles)
The Liturgy of Holy Eucharist
Communion Hymn: Angels, from the Realms of Glory (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 275)
Communion Hymn: Once in David's Royal City (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 269)
Sending Hymn: Go Tell It On the Mountain (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 290)
Postlude: Improvisation on "Go Tell It On the Mountain"
Presider: Doug Bauder
Deacon: Betty Smith
Lector: Pauline Caldwell
Acolyte: Meg Garl
Server: Deb Moore
Ushers: Gene and Gayl Laughman
Greeters: Tim and Jennifer Garl
Nursery: Marcy Grupenhoff and Hannah Wood
Council Coordinator: David Nixon
Altar Care: Shirley Mingee and Karen Blaisdell
Bread and Wine: Jane Warner
Flowers: The Seaman/Deibert Family
A very special thank you to Doug Bauder, homilist for today's service. Doug is a former Moravian pastor and currently director of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Student Support Services at Indiana University.
And a special thank you also to musicians Rita and Dave Pavolka
Monday December 31, 2007
New Year's Eve (Liturgical Color: White)
Last update: Tuesday 8 January 2008 20:36
