Friday, December 3, 2010

December News

Have a blessed Christmas!!

Friday, November 5, 2010

November 2010 Newsletter


I am trying something new this month. Since most everything I post comes from our Newsletter, I am going to attach the newsletter each month so that it can be read. If you have any comments or concerns about this process, please leave me a message below. Thanks! Patty

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

September Worship Schedule

September 5 - Pentecost 15
Join us for worship on September 5 as our summer schedule draws to a close. This Sunday, the day before Labor Day, will be our last Sunday with worship at 8:00 and 9:30 a.m. Please join us today and every Sunday as we praise God and celebrate the great grace we are given through the gift of his Son Jesus Christ who is the Lord of Life!

September 12 - Pentecost 16
Church School Rally Day
This is a morning of change! We return to our three time slot worship schedule. Our Church School Rally Day at 9:15 a.m. will have a gathering in the Sanctuary for children in grade 6 and younger. After this the children will adjourn to their new class rooms and meet their teachers. Youth and parents from grades 7, 8 and 9 will meet in the Fellowship Hall to learn about the plans for the 2010-2011 Confirmation year. Please join us!

September 19 - Pentecost 17
Holy Communion and Confirmation
A schedule with three worship times will return this morning as we celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Our worship will include resuming the Informal Service at 9:30 a.m. During the 10:30 a.m. service this year's Confirmation Class will participate in the Affirmation of Baptism and profess their faith in the risen Lord. As these young men and women mark a milestone in their spiritual journey, you have yet another opportunity to receive the Body and Blood of our Lord that was given and shed for you! Remember, you are always welcome!

September 26 - Pentecost 18
Harvest Celebration
This Sunday's opportunity to gather in worship will feature our annual Harvest Celebration. Our gifts of fresh produce, commercially-prepared canned goods, and other food items will be shared with New Bethany Ministries and the Bath Area Food Bank to assist their ministry to the hungry and homeless. We are having a Church-wide food drive with our Church School youth participating in this event. Please join in sharing your blessings and bring a food donation...your gift DOES make a difference! Also this morning, during the 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. service the Good News Bible will be presented to the starting 3rd grade class members as a gift from the Church School. Why not come to worship as a family?!

Church Council Highlights from August 11

Six members and Pastor John were present; six members were absent. Willard Werkheiser was a guest. The meeting was called to order by Glenn Mann and opened in prayer by Pastor John.

Willard Werkheiser presented an offer to pay for the paving of the driveway in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Bushkill Center. He also offered to pay for the projection system for the Sanctuary. In addition he offered to have the recently acquired additional cemetery land surveyed and laid out for lots.

The July minutes were accepted as received.

The July Treasurer's Report was received and approved.

The Pastor's Report was accepted as information.

Committee Highlights

Property -
  • A committee will be formed to discuss plans for the office make-over.
  • A contact number for John Deere manufacturing is needed to lodge a complaint about the dissatisfaction with the mower.
  • Storage building repair is done except for two rafters.
  • Old office equipment will be sold via sealed bids.
  • Floor refinishing rescheduled for September 16-18.

Cemetery -

  • Pastor reported that there is an on-going family feud regarding a plot. An attorney will be contacted to write a response to the family.

Spirit for Life -

  • A meeting was held on August 8th to plan events for the fall.

Youth Ministry -

  • Marlene Werkheiser submitted a written report stating that it was decided by the teachers to change the Sunday School curriculum. She and Terry DeGroot will be starting a youth group for grades 7th-12th.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for September 8th at 7:00 p.m.

Request for Bids

Bids are now being accepted for the office equipment that has recently been replaced. The following items are available:
(3) HP DeskJet 882C Printers
(1) Visioneer One Touch 8920 Scanner
(1) Epson Stylus 1280 Photo Printer
Please submit your SEALED BID to the church office BY SEPTEMBER 30.

Quilt Tops Needed

If anyone has any quilt tops to be quilted, please contact the church office (610-759-7363) or any member of Ladies Aid. Thank you!

Prayer Shawl Daytime Group Froming

When cooler weather comes, it will be a great time to pick up your knitting or crocheting - so based on interest, the Prayer Shawl Group will add a daytime meeting this fall! All experience levels are welcome, even if you're just learning. Besides prayer shawls/lap blankets, fall/winter activities will include scarf and hat making for area non-profits and also for the Seaman's Church Institute, an organization that provides gifts to those working at sea over the holidays. If you cannot get to meetings but would like to participate from home, that's OK too! Please fill out the sign-up sheet on the shawl table in the Narthex if you are interested or contact Doris Farley. As always, please help yourself to any item on the table to give to someone who needs to feel God's love and care.

Journeys Through Grief

A six-week support group for those who are grieving will begin on Monday, October 4th from 7:00-8:30 p.m. The group will continue to meet every Monday through November 8th. Registration forms are available in the Narthex literature rack. The group is sponsored by the Lutheran Congregational Services.

Christian Ed News

Rally Day will be held on Sunday, September 12th at 9:15 a.m. All children and students should meet in the sanctuary for a short opening. Children will then be dismissed to their classrooms to get to know their teachers while having a snack. Plan to join us as we start a new year of learning and fellowship!

Youth Groups will meet the first Sunday of each month beginning on October 3rd from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Come out and join the KOOL KIDZ 4 CHRIST (grades 2nd-6th) and Sr. Youth Group (grades 7th-12th) as they plan events for the coming year...like bowling, retreats, service projects and food??? Do you have other cool events you'd like to do? Is so, then this is where you want to be! Join Us!

An Advent Family Workshop and Covered Dish Dinner will be help on Sunday, November 28th at 5:00 p.m. Do you like the ornaments on the church tree? Now is your chance to make them! There will also be craft oprnaments for the kids to make. Come join us for food, fellowship and crafts. More info and registration forms will be supplied as the time grows nearer.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

A few notes of thanks...

We extend our sincere thanks to the Ladies Aid Society for their generous donations. We are grateful for their kindness and partnership in ministry!

A great big "Thank You' to all who volunteered their time during the week of VBS! Also, thank you to all members who so generously contributed all the needed supplies. Thank you to our secretary, Patty for snapping so many great shots and to Vyonne Gillen for the wonderful pictures she took of the chilren's craft time and the group shots.

Green Thumb Committee

If you love to work outdoors in the sunshine and enjoy the sweet scent of the earth...
please give us a call!! We are looking for volunteers to work together in keeping our church grounds beautiful during the spring, summer and fall seasons. If interested, please call Patty (610-759-7363) or Sherri Lutz (610-653-5730).

Monday, July 26, 2010

Third Grade Bible Class to be Held

Pastor John will lead a brief (about 45 minutes) Bible orientation class on Sunday, September 12th after the 10:30 a.m. service in the Fellowship Hall. Pizza will be served! This class is open to all students who will be entering 3rd grade this fall. It is a way of preparing them to receive their copy of the Holy Bible which will be presented to them by the Church School on September 26th. Parents are invited and encouraged to attend this class. Please fill out the registration form which can be found in the August newsletter.

Confirmation Class Meeting

A meeting will be held on Sunday, September 12 at 9:15 a.m. for all parents and students who will be entering 7th, 8th or 9th grades this fall. The class format for 2010-2011 will be presented at that time.

Attention all 7th graders-Please fill out the registration form which can be found in the August newsletter and return it to the office no later than September 5.

Church Council Highlights - July 14

Nine members and Pastor John were present; three members were absent. The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Glenn Mann and opened with prayer by Pastor John.

The June minutes were accepted as amended.

The June Treasurer's Report was received and approved.

The Pastor's Report was accepted as information.

Committee Highlights

Property -
  • Storage building repair - 3 columns with plates and/or angles would be a quick and effective way to repair.
  • Office make-over will be addressed at the August meeting.
  • Caulking has been purchased and will be installed as time allows.
  • Weed pulling volunteers are scarce. May be time to resurrect the "Green Thumb" Committee.
  • Mower chute clogs. Council would lit to return the bagger and get a mulching kit.
  • Air compressor has been purchased.
  • The Sanctuary/Narthex flooring will be cleaned and refinished on August 6th and 7th.

Christian Ed -

  • On 7/12 Marlene Werkheiser met with the leaders.
  • On 7/18 Marlene will meet with teachers.

Spirit for Life -

  • A report was given on the 7th grade Confirmation class carnival.
  • Marlene Werkheiser will be meting with available teachers and leaders on July 18th at 10:45 a.m.

Youth Ministry -

VBS went well with about 100 youth in attendance.

Special Committee -

Task force will be scheduling a meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled b=for August 11 at 7:00 p.m.

August Worship Schedule

August 1 - Pentecost 10 - Holy Communion
The Gospel passage for this morning, from Luke 12, reminds us that in God's reign, the "rich will be sent away empty." Jesus uses a parable to warn against identifying the worth of one's life with the value of one's possessions rather than one's relationship with God.

Join us for worship and the celebration of the Sacrament of Holy Communion today. So great is the grace of God; so caring is the love of our Lord Jesus!

August 8 - Pentecost 11
In the continuing reading of Luke's 12th chapter Jesus encourages disciples to invest their hearts and live fully into God's reign. Instead of facing life with fear, those who know God's generosity are always ready to receive from God and to give to others.

God sent Jesus to our world that all who believe in him might have eternal life. Join us as we celebrate that Good News!

August 15 - Pentecost 12 - Holy Communion
As is often the case in life, accepting Christ as one's Lord and Savior may lead to conflict with others - even within one's family. Jesus delivers harsh words about the purifying and potentially divisive effects of obedience to God's call in the final portion of Luke 12. The way of the cross often leads followers to encounter hostility and rejection, even from those they love.

We will celebrate the Lord's Supper and share in the grace our loving God proclaims...please join us!

August 22 - Pentecost 13
Our Gospel readings switch to Luke 13. In this morning's passage we read about how Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath, offering her a new beginning for her life. When challenged by a narrow reading of the Sabbath command Jesus responds by expanding "Sabbath work" to include setting people free from bondage.

In Jesus we come to know the truth...the truth that will set us free! Please worship with us today!

August 29 - Pentecost 14 - Holy Communion - Please not the change!
The issue of one's "greatness" is forever a stumbling block for each of us; "self-absorption" is legendary! Jesus observes guests jockeying for position at the table. He uses the opportunity to teach his hearers to choose humility rather than self-exaltation. Jesus also makes an appeal for hosts to mimic God's gracious hospitality to the poor and the broken.

We will celebrate Holy Communion THIS Sunday and NOT on Labor Day weekend - September 5.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Carnival!!!

Don't forget to come and join us for our first annual Carnival this Sunday, July 11 from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

There will be grilled food, snacks, games and exciting prizes.

Bring all of your friends and family. Ages 3-12 years welcome. There might be a surprise in store for you!!!

All the proceeds will benefit Feeding America.

2010 Graduates

We extend our congratulations and best wishes to all our graduates! May God ever bless and guide their lives as they go forward on their journey along life's road!

Welcome Aboard!!

At their June meeting the Church Council approved hiring Marlene Werkheiser as our new Youth Ministry Coordinator. Marlene has a wealth of experience and a diverse "portfolio" of ministry gifts to bring to Holy Cross. We are very excited to have her join our staff in July! She is anxious to meet our congregation and looks forward to beginning a meaningful time of ministry with our Church. Please join us in making her feel at home at Holy Cross!

Church Council Highlights - June 9

Eight members and Pastor John were present; four members were absent. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. and opened with prayer by Pastor John.

Mutual Ministry Committee recommended Marlene Werkheiser as the candidate for hire to fill the position of Youth Ministry Coordinator. The recommendation was approved by Council.

Eagle Scout Justin Smith presented a project proposal to do landscape work along the tree line on Johnson Road. The project was approved.

Tom Frack was approved to complete Mark Losagio's remaining term. Welcome Tom!

A correction to the May minutes should reflect that Russ Phillips was not present at the May 12 meeting. The minutes were accepted as amended.

The May Treasurer's Report was received and approved.

The Pastor's Report was accepted as information.

Committee Highlights
Property
  • The storage building has had some structural damage. There were two proposed solutions to correct the problem. Council approved erecting a wall-divider and support.
  • Copier's Inc. has been contacted regarding a proposal for the upgrade of equipment for the offices.
  • Diefenderfer's submitted a bid for caulking. Sherri will call to schedule.
  • The locks on the front door and the side door have been swapped.
  • A "weed-pulling party" has been scheduled for June 26 at 8:00 a.m., rain date July 10.
  • The new mower will be serviced by Bob Sandt. Hilltop will check it for a problem.
  • Purchase of an air compressor was approved.
  • Jim Carlson made 4 signs telling people to clean up after their dogs when walking on the church grounds.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for July 14 at 7:00 p.m.

July Worship Schedule

July 4 - The 6th Sunday after Pentecost - Holy Communion
God is the source of our nourishment. Our Lord's invitation to "take and eat...take and drink" is a repeated one. In the holy Eucharist, in the Word read and proclaimed, in the Assembly of the people of God, the dominion of God has come near. Rejoice! Your name is written in heaven.

We will celebrate the Lord's Supper at 8:00 and 9:30 a.m. this morning. Please join us!

July 11 - The 7th Sunday after Pentecost
To love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind is to reflect God's mercy in responding to one's neighbor. That mercy found its most profound expression in the "gospel that has come to you" - namely the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. That gospel mercy comes to us again today" at the font, at the altar, and from the pulpit. It is very near to you.

Please join us for worship!

July 18 - The 8th Sunday after Pentecost - Holy Communion
Perhaps the church, at its best, is "all ears". Almighty God urges the faithful, again and again, to "listen up!" - to heed the Word from above. So it was with Abraham and Sarah, with Mary and Martha, and the early church at Colossae. So it is today as we join the assembly to hear the Word of God, the words of life.

Holy Communion invites us to recall the great gift God provides for us - Eternal Life through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross. But it never stops there. With our sin forgiven and guilt taken away we are entrusted with a tremendous task. We are called to be the feet, hands, and voices for the risen and ascended Lord.

We will celebrate the Lord's Supper at 8:00 and 9:30 a.m. this morning. Please join us!

July 25 - The 9th Sunday after Pentecost
Persistence in prayer evoked the admiration of Jesus and wins the attention of the Lord when Abraham intercedes for Sodom. The life of the baptized - to be rooted and built up in Christ, Jesus the Lord - is to be rooted in prayer. God hears and answers prayer and so strengthens God's own. "When I called, you answered me; you increased my strength within me."

Join us for worship at 8:00 and 9:30 a.m.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

May is Month of Service

During the month of May we will be looking for your help! There are many ways you can volunteer your time and talents at Holy Cross. Look for the "Ways You Can Serve" form located in the Narthex to sign-up. We need your "helpful hands and giving heart"! Thank you.

May Worship Schedule

May 2 - The Fifth Sunday of Easter - Holy Communion

Easter initiates a new day. It anticipates a new heaven and a new earth. The risen Lord is making all things new. In the mystery of Holy Baptism God has made new people of us. Today the Lord Jesus invites us to see everyone in a new light - through the lens of love. Jesus invites us, again and again, to follow him, bringing the Easter life to others. We will celebrate Holy communion at 8:00, 9:30, and 10:30 a.m.



May 9 - The Sixth Sunday of Easter

Visions abound in the readings for the sixth Sunday of Easter. Paul has a vision about what to do. John has a vision of what will be. The risen Lord Jesus provides visions of peace that passed human understanding and power beyond human imagination. Please join us for worship as we also celebrate Mother's Day and pay tribute to all who have served in that all important role!



May 16 - The Seventh Sunday of Easter - Holy Communion

It is possible to hear in Jesus' high priestly prayer, a prayer he offered shortly before his death, the petitions of the ascended Lord for his own throughout history-to our day-and beyond. Jesus prays for us, In Holy Baptism we become believers in God, have our robes washed in the flood of Christ's forgiveness, and receive the gift of life forever with all the saints. We will celebrate Holy Communion at 8:00, 9:30, and 10:30 a.m.



May 23 - The Day of Pentecost

Pentecost is a day of promises fulfilled. The promised Spirit of God is poured out. The baptized have become "children of God" and "joint heirs with Christ". By the power of the Spirit we have seen the face of the Father in his only begotten Son and been saved by him. Bless the Lord, O my soul. Please note that there will be NO 9:30 a.m. service this morning. Holy Communion will be celebrated at 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. with a spirit-filled, music-filled service that draws on parts of the new ELW liturgy, favorite anthems, and hymns. The Adult Choir will provide the leadership for this event that will be very inspiring. PLEASE MARK THE DATE AND JOIN US IN CELEBRATING "LIFE IN THE LIGHT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT!"



May 30 - The Holy Trinity - The First Sunday after Pentecost

"O Lord our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" Today we celebrate the name of God: holy blessed Trinity. There is no other day quite like this one in the church's year. There is no other god like ours. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! Join us for worship as we also pay tribute to all who have served and are presently serving in our military forces on this Memorial Day weekend.

Church Census Forms

Church Census Forms will be mailed to you shortly. We are in the process of updating our database. Please watch for your form, check the information on it, and make and corrections and additions. Return your form to the church office EVEN if you have made NO CHANGES! We appreciate your help with updating our records! Thank you!

Women's Bible Study

"God's Daughters" will begin a new study entitled "Daring to Be Different", a study on Deborah. The session will take place on Fridays through June 4 from 9:30-11:00 a.m. A sign-up sheet is available in the Narthex. New members are always welcome! Any questions can be directed to Christa Browne or Sherri Guagliardi.

May Youth News

The theme for the May 23 LUNCH 'N' LEARN is "The Story of Holy Cross". The session will begin with pizza being served at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. To sign up you must RSVP by email to Pastor John (prjohnkunkel@aol.com) or by calling the office (610-759-7363) by Saturday night and leaving a message! Remember, we need an adult volunteer to be the "pizza runner", please let Pastor John know if you can help in this role!

Please check the April Youth News for information about the upcoming Koinonia Work Day and Wildwood Retreat.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Clothing Drive

There will be a clothing drive on Sunday, April 18 and Sunday, April 25 from 9:00 a.m. to Noon at the church pavilion. The drive is sponsored by Via of the Lehigh Valley to help raise money to support programs for children and adults with disabilities living in our community. Please fill your bags with unwanted clothing, shoes, linens, purses, etc. (nothing breakable). For larger items, such as furniture, please call 610-866-6776.

Grief Group - "Journeys Through Grief"

Lutheran Congregational Services will be sponsoring a group for those who are grieving. The six sessions will be held on Monday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. April 12 through May 24 at the church. There is no fee to participate. Brochures and registration forms are available in the literature rack located in the Narthex.

Spring Clean-up Day

Roll up your sleeves and bring your work gloves, rakes and gardening tools as we spend the day giving our church a fresh new look for spring! On Saturday, April 17 from 8:00 a.m.-Noon we will be "sprucing up" both inside and outside the church. If you have a pick-up truck or trailer we could use that day to haul things away,please bring it along! Hope o see you all there!

April Youth News

Kool Kidz 4 Christ Food Drive
From Easter, April 4 through Mother's Day, May 9, Kool Kidz 4 Christ will be holding a food drive to benefit the Nazareth Area Food Bank. We would appreciate if everyone could bring at least one item to donate. You may place your items in the box located in the Narthex. Some possible ideas would be canned items, boxed items, and any other non-perishable items. Thank you for your help!

April's Lunch 'N' Learn
This session will be held on April 25, and is entitled "The Sacraments : Baptism and Holy Communion." It will begin at Noon in the Fellowship Hall with pizza for lunch. The class will end at 1:30 p.m. To sign up for pizza RSVP by calling the Church Office (610-759-7363) or email (holycross1975@aol.com) by the Saturday night before and leave a message. Please keep in mind that we always need an adult volunteer to be the "pizza runner;" so let Pastor John know if you can help in this role!

Koinonia Work Day - May 22, 2010
Camp Koinonia is having a work day on May 22, 2010. This is a great opportunity for the youth to help the camp with some maintenance work and have some fun and fellowship for the day. This year we will be going for the weekend and staying in the Lakeside cabin. Space is limited to 12 people (3 chaperones and 9 youth). We will be leaving Holy Cross at 6:00 p.m. on Friday and returning on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. The work day is from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. on Saturday. Cost will be $35 per person. Sign-ups are no later than May 2 and are on a first come first serve basis. Contact Terry Grube to sign-up or with questions.

Wildwood Youth Retreat - June 16-18, 2010
The youth have requested a return to Wildwood, N.J. once again for their Summer Retreat. Reservations have been made at the Luther Inn for 28 beds. Commitments from youth and chaperones are needed. We want to get a list of participating youth no later than May 16. Sign-ups will be secured with a $40 deposit per family. The total fee for the retreat is $75 per person. We look forward to another great retreat! Contact Terry DeGroot with any questions.

World Hunger Coin Boxes

Don't forget to bring in your World Hunger coin boxes beginning Easter Sunday, April 4. We will continue to collect them throughout the months of April and May. Thanks for caring!

Worship in April

April 1 - Maundy Thursday / Holy Communion
We will gather for worship to commemorate the betrayal of our Lord which led to his death on the Cross. Holy Communion will be celebrated at 12 Noon and 7:00 p.m. Please join us on this night of remembrance!

April 2 - Good Friday / Tenebrae Service
The death of our Lord will be recalled during Tenebrae - A service of Darkness. This quiet and reverent time of worship includes Scripture readings, hymns, prayers, and a time for personal meditation. It will be held at 7:00 p.m. A briefer version will be held at Noon. Join us on this most solemn day as we recall the agonizing suffering our Lord endured upon the cross on Calvary's hill. It was this ultimate sacrifice of the Son of God's life that brings to all people of faith the hope and promise of Life Eternal in the Kingdom of God.

April 4 - Easter Sunday / The Resurrection of our Lord
"This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." So, the Psalmist declares. God has indeed raised from the dead the one who was put to death "by hanging him on a tree." Alleluia! God allows Jesus to appear "to us who were chosen by God as witnesses" in Holy Baptism and invited us to eat and drink at the table of the risen Christ. Alleluia! Please join us in the celebration of Christ's rising from death and the tomb! Holy Communion will be celebrated at all Service times - 6:30, 8:00, 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.

April 11 - The Second Sunday of Easter
In spite of all we have heard and all that we have seen, it is often hard to believe. Because it is hard to believe, we will invest ourselves in the Easter mystery for fifty days (a week of weeks). Because it is hard to believe, John the evangelist will provide sign after sign celebrating Jesus' victory over death. Because it is hard to believe, the Lord Jesus will return to us again an again offering us his peace. Please join our on-going celebration of the Lord's Resurrection!

April 18 - The Third Sunday of Easter / Holy Communion
The disciples make a big splash and breakfast with the risen Jesus in the Gospel for today. Wading in the water (remembering our Baptism) and eating with Jesus (celebrating the Holy Communion) is our weekly encounter with the risen Christ. Jesus asks us, with Peter, again and again - Do you love me? And Jesus invites us, again and again, to follow him, bringing the Easter life to others. We will celebrate Holy Communion at 8:00, 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.

April 25 - The Fourth Sunday of Easter
The gift of new life, of eternal life, is the gift of the risen Christ. It is the promise of Jesus. It was true for Dorcas in Joppa. It was true for those "who have come out of the great ordeal" in the Revelation vision. It is true for us and for all the baptized - "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever".

Annual Easter Egg Hunt

The annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, April 3 at 11:00 a.m. for all ages. Donations of hard-boiled dyed eggs would be appreciated. A sign-up sheet is located in the Narthex. Eggs can be brought to the church anytime the week before the hunt and placed in the kitchen refrigerator.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Flower Order Forms

There are flower order forms available in the Church Office for PALM PLANTS (for Palm Sunday), DAFFODILS (for March 21), and EASTER FLOWERS (for Easter Sunday). If you need a form for any of these, please stop by the church office and see Patty.

Hershey Park 2010 Discount Ticket Orders

We can help ANYONE save money on admission to Hershey Park this summer! There are discounted rates available for various age groups. All admission tickets are valid any regular public operating day all season long! Order forms are available at the Church Office. The order form and payment MUST be returned to us BY APRIL 18.

March Youth News

March's LUNCH 'N' LEARN is entitled "Redemption and Salvation." The session is set for March 28. It will begin at Noon in the Fellowship Hall with pizza for lunch. The class will end at 1:30 p/m/ To sign up for pizza RSVP by email to the Church Office (holycr1975@aol.com) or call the Office (610-759-6383) by Saturday night and leave a message! Please keep in mind we always need an adult volunteer to be the "pizza runner", so let Pastor John know if you can help in this role!

New Member Sunday

We invite all committed Christians who desire to make Church Membership a meaningful part of their life to become a member of Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church. We will welcome NEW MEMBERS on Sunday, March 28 at any of the worship times. If you have been "thinking about taking this step" - here is your opportunity. Please call Pastor John at 610-759-7363 or email him at prjohnkunkel@aol.com by March 21.

Church Council Notes

The meeting was held on February 9. Seven members and Pastor John were present; five members were absent. The meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. with Pastor John presiding.
The minutes from the January meeting were approved.

The December 2009 and January 2010 Reports from the Treasurer were received and approved. The Treasurer's Report will be presented in a different format. The annual audit needs to be completed by March 31. Pastor John will review all regular, recurring bills on a monthly basis; items out of the ordinary will be brought to Council's attention.

The Pastor's Report was accepted as information.

Committee Highlights: Pastor John reported that our new Secretary, Patty Wilkinson is doing well in adapting to her role and he is well-pleased with her work; the John Deere diesel tractor will be advertised for sale closer to spring; a new pressure tank and faucet for the sacristy need to purchased; dates of upcoming events were reported by the Spirit 4 Life Committee.

New Business: Informational/Mail Trays have been set up for Church Council members in the Secretary's Office to improve dissemination of information; a Church-wide Spring Clean-up Day has been set for April 17; an official Church Cancellation Protocol was adopted; the following officers were elected by acclamation: Glenn Mann - President; Don Bostic - Vice President; and Julie DeGroot - Secretary.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:52 p.m.; the next meeting will be March 9 at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, February 15, 2010

Worship During Lent

The Sundays of Lent

February 21 - Lent I - Holy Communion
We begin our journey with our first step - seeing in God "the power of prayer." In the day's Gospel verse, Luke 4:12, we find encouragement in noting how forcefully Jesus deals with Satan concerning a problem that we all share - temptation. If only we were so forceful in speaking out!

February 28 - Lent II
Our Gospel verse, Luke 13:34, is sorrowful lament by Jesus over Jerusalem's inability to gather around and follow him. That Jesus' atoning death is the basis of our claim to Eternal Life will be shared by our very special guest Ms. Robyn Wilk from Jews for Jesus. Please note: there will be NO 9:30 a.m. Service this day; the program "Christ in the Passover" will be presented at 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. Spread the word and invite all to join us for this meaningful event!

March 7 - Lent III - Holy Communion
We pray, "Give us this day our daily bread." And God does. But, this food is provided "for a purpose". We will take a closer look at that purpose with the help of our Gospel verse, Luke 13:5.

March 14 - Lent IV
What should or could be an easier part of our lives as human beings - forgiveness - is made increasingly more difficult without one important ingredient that God so graciously provides. Our Gospel verse, Luke 15:20b, makes what is clear, "crystal-ly" so!

March 21 - Lent V - Holy Communion
Giving honor and praise to God has always been desired of us by our Creator. Doing so can be a frequent human struggle. We'll try to get a handle on this with our Gospel verse - John 12:3. Daffodil Sunday's observance will serve a two-fold purpose. First it will benefit the research work of the American Cancer Society. Second, the beautiful yellow flowers will help us usher in spring!

March 28 - Palm Sunday
"Your Kingdom come," we pray and it most certainly will - God has said it is so! The main question for each of us is just how will it come to us? The Gospel verse, Luke 19:38, recounts the jubilant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Palm Sunday begins what is historically the most important week on our life of faith - Holy Week. In the ebb and flow of the week's dramatic progression, we come to see and begin to understand a differing insight of precisely what God's Kingdom is really all about!

The Wednesdays of Lent

Our mid-week Lenten worship times from February 24 through March 24 HAVE BEEN CANCELLED!

Week-day Lenten Worship

During Lent there will be three Week-day Worship opportunities...

February 17 - Ash Wednesday - when Lent begins. Holy Communion will be celebrated and for those desiring, there will be the Imposition of Ashes. Worship times will be 12 NOON and 7:00 p.m.

During Holy Week on Thursday, April 1 we will hold Maundy Thursday services at 12 NOON and 7:00 p.m. At these times Holy Communion will be celebrated.

April 2, is Good Friday, the somber day recalling that the Son of God freely gave his life, dying on a Cross on Calvary's hill, that we might receive Eternal Life. The Tenebrae Service times will be 12 NOON and 7:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday

The finale of our Lenten preparation, study, and devotion will reach its culmination in the joyful celebration of The Resurrection of Our Lord on April 4. The Good News of God's victory over death will be shared and Holy Communion celebrated at all four Services 6:30, 8:00, 9:30, and 10:30 a.m. The Gospel verse is Luke 25:5b-6a. We will learn that the finis of Christ's utterance from the Cross has by the power of almighty God become for us the taking of a new circumstance in hand...incipio - the beginning!

Monday, February 1, 2010

Food Drive Set

We are asking families to take part in a congregation-wide food drive on February 7th. Bags of items may be brought in that day and placed in the Sanctuary at the designated spot. The items collected will be given to the Bath Area Food Bank to help enable their ministry to the needy families in our area. Thanks for caring and sharing!!!

YOUTH NEWS

KOOL KIDZ 4 CHRIST
That is the name of the new youth group for students in 4th, 5th and 6th grades. They held their first meeting on Sunday, January 10. Twelve students participated in brainstorming future activities that include serving the community, social activities, and fund raising endeavors. Please check the Sunday bulletins for upcoming activities. If you have questions or seek more information, please contact Christa Browne, Carol Filchner, or Amanda and Jeremy Shuler.

KOINONIA YOUTH RETREAT - February 26 - 28
Our youth have requested a return to Koinonia for our annual winter retreat. Reservations have been made for the Trail Building for up to 36 beds. Hope for plenty of cold weather and snow so we can go tubing, skating , and hiking on the lake. Make sure to bring winter clothing and boots as well as a sleeping bag and pillow. Pastor John will be joining us for the fun and some spiritual growth and fellowship. We will be departing Holy Cross at 6:00 p.m. on Friday evening with a stop for dinner along the way. We will return on Sunday afternoon around 3:00 p.m.

Commitments form youth (grades 6 through 12) and chaperons are needed. We need a list of participating youth no later than February 7th. Friends are welcome if you wish to bring someone along. Sing-ups will be secured with a $20 deposit per family. The total fee for the retreat is $45 per person; the second sibling is $22.50. To sign up a Retreat Health and Permission form must be returned along with your deposit.

We look forward to another great retreat! If you want to go on the retreat and are financially unable to do so, please see Pastor John in confidencefor scholarship assistance. Please contact Terry DeGroot with any question.

FEBRUARY LUNCH N' LEARN
"Mission and Ministry" is the Lunch n' Learn theme set for February 21. Pizza will be served at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. To sign up you must RSVP by email to Pastor John or call the Office by Saturday night and leave a message. Looking forward to seeing you there!

February Worship Calendar

February 7
The 5th Sunday After Epiphany - Holy Communion
The fifth Sunday after Epiphany continues to highlight unlikely instruments and circumstances appointed to reveal the glory of the Lord. "Who will go for us?" queries the voice of the Lord. The call is answered by a man of unclean lips, a former persecutor of the church of God, and three fishermen who couldn't catch a thing. More surprising still, perhaps, is the fact that we are also called.

Join us for worship as we celebrate Holy Communion at all three worship times. HERE we receive the grace and strength for the journey in answering the call!

February 14
Transfiguration Of Our Lord
Witnesses to the glory of God in the face of Jesus will be unable to avoid reflecting that glory in the world. It was true for Moses. It was doubtless true for Peter, James and John. We pray that it will be true of all of us who see the glory of the Lord in the word and in the supper and who are being "transformed into the same image" by the Spirit of God.

Join us this closing Sunday of the Epiphany Season. On Wednesday, February 17 - Ash Wednesday - we begin this year's Lenten pilgrimage. Worship details will be available in a special mailing that will be sent in early February.