News From Grace for September 2006 and October 2006

PASTOR'S CORNER

"Why do you work for bread that perishes?" That is Jesus' question at the beginning of a long succession of weeks this summer during which we explore in our Sunday morning readings what it means for Jesus to be the "Bread of Life." By implication Jesus is asking us, "What is it that has lasting value in your life?"

Is it the stuff that we have, or get, or buy? Of course not! Everyone, with a wit of sense, knows that. But what is it that has lasting meaning? It is our very lives.... The relationships that support and give meaning to our lives.... The faith that sustains that our very existence! Jesus will be quoted by John as saying "I am the bread of life." But where is it that we get that bread?

A tumultuous argument has gone on in religious circles for a long time. One side of that argument says that our faith - our life - anything of value must come to us from outside ourselves... from God! And in spite of what the existentialists say, we cannot concoct our own salvation. We Lutherans say it like this - "our life, our salvation is a gift from God."

The other side of the argument says that nothing that comes from outside can really make any difference - it is the individual, the decisions made by individuals, the faith and faithfulness reflected in deeds of love and mercy. That is the only thing that matters... the only thing that makes any difference.

So what is it? Is it from outside ourselves that we are changed? Or is it from the inside?

The answer must be of course both! Growth... hope... faith... life and yes... salvation comes only in the interaction between that which comes to us unbidden as surprising grace filled gift and the processes of our spirit that processes and puts the gift in language that I as individual can understand and then finally is changed by it.

The word of God bangs up against my soul... and in the conversation that ensues, something really important happens.

That is what small groups are about - and it is what we miss when our whole religious experience is limited to formal worship services. We used to know that but have lost it somewhere along the way. This fall we will begin a process that I pray will spread eventually to every corner of this congregation before we are done. Two opportunities - one for high school age and one for adults... two groups will come together for intensive and intentional conversation and support. To talk a little about some specific faith opportunity or challenge... and then to explore with each other in a very small group of people what that opportunity or challenge has meant or could mean in our lives...

Can I interest you in being a part of that kind of opportunity? I pray so... for "why do you labor for that which perishes?" Why indeed?

For now I am off to Alaska.... But come fall, I hope you will join me and a few others in exploring the interaction between that which comes from the outside and what we do with it on the inside. Stay tuned.

MESSAGE FROM THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT...

Well, another summer is in the record books and I can only hope that everyone had as enjoyable time vacationing and relaxing as we did. September has a way of snapping us into action rather abruptly, and this year is no exception. The fall is a very busy time in the life at Grace and it provides so much opportunity for fellowship. Please help us with one or more of the activities this fall.

By the time that you read this, Pastor Myers and his family have safely returned from their Alaska excursion and he too is settling back into the fall routine. Pastor is preparing an exciting small group opportunity this fall that will hopefully spawn into several other groups. Look for information forthcoming on this from Pastor Myers.

I want to sincerely address the fact that the council again found it necessary to request a special appeal to the congregation for financial assistance with our general fund. Two years ago when we made the last request, we made it clear that we were addressing the issues that we felt had at that time created the shortfall. A special task force was formed to address the financial state of the congregation and what we could do to better meet our financial obligations in the future. First let me state that having a special appeal is nothing new for Grace, as we have a long history of requiring an appeal every couple of years or more. However, the task force felt, and I supported, the need to grow our mission rather than slash any of the traditions that we have grown to love about Grace. I believe as a result of the work of the task force, our mission has expanded. Has it created any financial growth for the congregation? Well that's difficult to tell since we don't know where we would be today without the measures taken as a result of the task force. I can only state that we are no worse off than two years ago and without any effort at all we could very well be worse off today. Please know that no one is more disappointed in the fact that we have again found ourselves in this position than I am personally. I can only ask that we all do as we have always done in the past and do whatever we can to assist Grace in this time of crisis.

Let's move on to better times and greater fun. Let's all support and enjoy the Fall Fun Fest, the Ministry Fair and Annual Meeting, and all of the other upcoming fall fun. Welcome back from vacation!

PUMPKIN DESSERT CONTEST

at the

FALL FUN FEST

To change things up a bit, we have decided to have a Pumpkin Dessert Contest this year.

The three categories will be the same:

• Pumpkin Cakes
• Pumpkin Pies
• Other Pumpkin Desserts

Other will include such desserts that don't fit the cake or pie categories.

There will be a prize for Best Overall, best in each of the other two categories and "Honorable Mention."

Please have your desserts at the Fun Fest by 10 am. Judging will begin around 10:30 am.

Any leftover portions of the dessert foods are to be sold at the bake table. There will be a sign-up sheet in the entryway in September. If you have questions, contact Karen Myers.

"WALK, LISTEN, GIVE"

During this year s upcoming Stewardship emphasis, we will think about those three words.

Listen. As the disciples walked, they listened as Jesus taught them about Himself and there roles in the Kingdom. We listen today to His message through inspiring sermons, Bible study, prayer, worship.

Give. We know what Jesus gave for us. Our response is the use of what and who we are - our time, our talents, and yes, even our money, ...ourselves. The fullest sense of giving comes from our walking and listening to Jesus.

At the Ministry Fair on November 5, all will have a marvelous opportunity to walk with and listen to our fellow members as we display the wonderful contributions to our life and ministry here at Grace and realize how we all have something to give.

MEMBER PROFILE #8

"A New Path"

As I started to get back into the swing of things, my illness has again flared up and I am, from time to time, bed-ridden.

In considering how I was going to complete this month's "Membership Profile" I thought some of you might be wondering, "How come he hasn't asked me?"

To help me, and anyone who might fit the above description, I have created a very simple questionnaire to provide the information needed.

The most important and only question is: "What about me would others be interested in?" For example, are you originally from this area; your career (or in my case the lack there of); schooling; hobbies; family; etc... you get the idea. I will look forward to your responses by email or by using the telephone number listed below.

Again, another way God tells me, "this is how I have determined it."

With prayer and peace,

WANTED: SMALL GROUP PARTICIPANTS

Would you be interested in facilitating and guiding a small (6-12 person) discussion/interest group? Would you like the opportunity to experience the dynamics of a small group and the satisfaction and insight to be gained?

The first group will be formed this Fall, starting October 4th and will consist of those who wish to discover more about participating in a small group. There will likely be five or six evening sessions. It is hoped that several groups can form and thrive during the next few years. Topics may range from discipleship study to being a Christian in today's world to the roles of faith and prayer in our daily lives.

Eventually, groups may form with very focused, common interests and these faith-related groups may vary widely. What might these groups be like? Well, like the lunches for the needy ministry, youth faith studies, traditional Bible Study, the choir, a men's support association or Grace musicians. The common interests form a lasting bond between those engaged in the group.

Are you interested in joining the "charter group"? Please contact Don Zurwelle or Pastor Carl.

SMALL GROUP FOR HIGH SCHOOLERS

A new group for our high schoolers will kick off on October 1, 2006 with dinner and discussion at 6:00 p.m. at the home of Matt and Melissa Lauten, 712 Hawkshead Road in Lutherville. Plans are to meet in different homes on alternate Sundays. Please contact Pastor Carl to let him know you will be joining them.

CHOIR REHEARSALS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 7TH

Summer is coming to a close, vacations have refreshed us, the school bells are ringing and it is now time to come together again and enjoy the fellowship and friendship within our congregation. One group that has been missed during the summer months has been the church choir, but they will be back on Sunday, September 10th. Choir Rehearsals will begin on Thursday, September 7th, at 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room. There are many within the congregation who enjoy singing - we have heard you throughout the year!! Call Kim Buckel at his home and volunteer the gift you have been given, or simply come to the rehearsal on September 7th. We need men and women of all vocal ranges and remember, the majority of our singers are not professional but have learned through the years. Those who do have a musical background help those who just want to sing. Come! Join in the fellowship!

FALL BIBLE STUDY

A Fall Bible Study is being planned to begin on Wednesday, October 4, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. and will be held for six weeks thru November 8, 2006. You may bring a bag lunch and join in the fellowship and perhaps continued discussion following the study.

The book of the Bible to be studied has not been determined, but will be announced as soon as possible. Simply plan to attend and kick off your fall season by studying something very special. Fill out the registration form and return or send to the church office. We look forward to seeing you October 4th!

"SECURE THE CALL"

The Committee for Church in Society has a new project. They are collecting used and unwanted cell phones. These phones are checked, erased of any numbers left in address books, and programmed for #911 emergency use. They are given to people who do not own a phone so they can be connected to help should they need it. So, instead of leaving that old phone in your "catch-all" drawers at home, bring them to church and place in the barrel in the entryway. Help someone who is in need to be more secure.

Once again, "Onstage Drama Camp" held here at Grace Church during the weeks of July 10-14th and July 17-21st was very successful. There were 49 children in each session.

The day began at 9:00 a.m. and ended at 3:00 p.m. The campers brought their bagged lunch each day and got to know the other campers. Then on each Friday evening, they would put on a performance for their parents, other family members and friends, followed by a Pizza/Sub Supper.

Many thanks to Bill Pullin who has directed this successful camp for the past two years. We look forward to a new camp next year -- 2007!

4TH FAMILY GRADUATES FROM BIHN

Heartfelt words were expressed this weekend by Kim and her daughter, Lynnae, the most recent BIHN graduates, as they gratefully thanked the many volunteers present at their graduation party who had helped them in their journey towards independent living. Their spirits were high and hope was evident in their words, as was determination and a willingness to work hard to accomplish further goals.

In a Temple Talk, John Guthmann said, "we, as volunteers, think we provide shelter, food and a listening ear, but that in actuality, we provide a place where hope can grow and spirits can be nurtured."

To All Volunteers: Thank you for what you do. It is far more than you think. Thanks to all of you for your prayers and goodwill

Our NEXT VOLUNTEER WEEK STARTS OCT 1 -- new volunteers always needed and welcomed -- call Cheryl Conrad for info.

SO YOU DON'T WANT TO VOLUNTEER

Other Critical Ways to Help BIHN

The families have loved your cooking. To honor the donations of your time and skill and to raise money to help families with incidentals when they move into their own homes, the families have decided to compile a cookbook which they can sell. Please consider. I know you've got something yummy. Send recipe, your name, and congregation name to: carol.orefice@gmail.com

Needed: a good driving record. Contact Allie re: hours, days needed, salary. 410-235-2111 or mailto:allie.pearlman@baltimoreihn.org

Clerical tasks, phones, help with kids, etc. Contact Allie at above number's.

See Wish List which follows or go to www.baltimoreihn.org

BIHN

Can you provide any of the following items? If so, please bring to the church the next time Grace is assigned for a week at the BIHN.

For more on the Baltimore Interfath Hospitality Network go to www.baltimoreihn.org

This fall, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) will be releasing a new Book of Worship - Evangelical Lutheran Worship - which will contain approximately 700 hymns and 10 settings for worship, including the two we use in the current green Lutheran Book of Worship. Up until the release in October, the books can be preordered for $17.50 each; after the release date, the price escalates to $20.00 each. We have preordered 200 books. In addition to the worship books, we are also purchasing the Minister's Ritual Edition (the book that sits on the altar), the Minister's Desk Edition, and two different music accompaniment editions.

Anyone wishing to memorialize or honor a friend or loved ones by donating one or more of these new worship books is asked to fill out the form below and turn into the office with your check. Also, if you would like to purchase a copy of this book for your own personal use, you can again use the form printed below or call the church office (410-828-5115) for further information.

The Worship and Music Committee is exploring ways to introduce the new material at a future date.

The Memorials Committee, with the approval of the Congregation Council, has undertaken a special project to re-cover the seats of the chairs in the chancel area. With the help and advice of Judy Greer, a design for the covering has been chosen. The proposed needlepoint seat covering will enhance and compliment the kneelers around the altar railing.

SPECIAL REQUEST ~ The Use of Your Talent - Have you ever done a piece of needlepoint??? Your help is needed now to work on the seat coverings for the 11 chancel chairs and will be greatly appreciated not only by the Memorials Committee but by the entire congregation. If you or a friend wish to use your free time in a worthwhile project, contact the chairman of the Memorials Committee, Angie Haines , or Judy Greer information. The canvases have been painted and the wool has been delivered ---- ready to go!!!!!!!

SPECIAL REQUEST ~ Contribution of Your Cash Gifts - Have you been thinking about honoring a special person or providing a loving memorial for someone??? Here is your opportunity to recognize this individual by contributing a cash gift to this special project of the Memorials Committee. All gifts received will be deposited in the Memorial Fund, recorded appropriately in one of the special gift books, and acknowledged to the donor and the recipient. Gifts in any amount will be greatly appreciated. The cost of a "named" seat is $1,000 and will be recorded in the Book of Special Gifts, any gift over $100 will be recorded also in the Book of Special Gifts, and gifts less than $100 will be recorded in the Book of Remembrance. Consider this means to express your thoughts for a loved one!!!!!!

A SPECIAL INVITATION

During the past year, the Memorials Committee has been endeavoring to enhance the chancel area of the nave and several other sections within the church building. The committee would like to issue an invitation to you all to participate in this project.

Would you like to contribute to these improvements or to make a gift in honor of or in memory of a special relative or friend? The Memorials Committee extends to you the opportunity to provide funds for the purchase of one or more of the following items:

1. the 4 new brass aisle candlesticks
2. the new movable altar which is used at the early service
3. an all season parament for use on this movable altar
4. 4 sets (red, green, purple, white) burse and veil (covering for the chalice on the altar)
5. an all season parament for use on the altar in the pastor's sacristy
6. a replacement covering of the reredos above the altar in the pastor's sacristy
7. a new table to hold the communion ware in the rear of the nave
8. the marble base for the baptismal font
9. a rocking chair in the nursery
10. the table in the new conference room
11. the chairs in the new conference room
12. new carpeting in the lounge and in the area outside the offices
13. a holder for the name tags
14. the long table in the nave holding church bulletins, etc.
15. the recovering of the chairs in the chancel area with needle point which will match the kneelers.

If any of these special projects are of interest to you, contact Angeline Haines, chairman of the Memorials Committee for additional information regarding prices, designs, etc. Mrs. Haines can be reached at parlangie@aol.com .