May, 2014.pub - Christ Lutheran Church

“Where there is no vision the people perish,”
(KJV, Proverbs 29:18)
“Where there is no vision the people perish,” (Prov. 29:18), is a verse that is often used in churches to
coax them into some sort of planning event. Our Church council has recently endorsed the concept of our congregation engaging in a strategic planning cycle. Our Congregational Chairman,
Mr. Brian Hoeppner has spoken to the flock on Sunday morning encouraging people to become
involved. Therefore, in the context of our intentions to engage in self-examination and congregational planning, how are we to understand this often misunderstood scripture. In other words, we
are to ask ourselves the old ‘Lutheran Question,’ “What does this mean?”
Christian leadership books often quote Proverbs 29:18 as a
rationale for a church writing a vision statement. The KJV version reads, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” This
wording fits nicely for those who want to persuade others regarding the need for a vision statement. While it is good for
leaders to communicate vision, Proverbs 29:18 is not talking
about a leader’s vision, or the collective leadership vision of a
group of people. Rather, “vision” here refers to special revelation and the principle is that that apart from God’s Word, society quickly spins into moral chaos. Three more recent translations render the verse’s meaning as follows:
New International Version) “Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but
blessed is he who keeps the law.”
New King James Version) “Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; But
happy is he who keeps the law.”
And the even more recent (English Standard Version) “Where there is no prophetic vision the
people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.”
The word translated “prophetic vision” refers to special revelation or God’s Word. The word
translated “cast off restraint” carries the idea of there being a total loss of social order. It is the
same word used in Exodus 32:25 to describe the Israelite’s frenzy and lack of focus on God’s will
an during the Golden Calf disaster, “Moses saw that the people were running wild and that Aaron
had let them get out of control and so become a laughingstock to their enemies (Exodus 32:25, NIV). If
a people do not hear and give heed to God’s Word in their lives, then we can expect those people
and the congregations that they belong to churches to cast off restraint and every person will then
pursue what they believe in their own mind to be the ‘will of God’ in the life of the individual and of
the body of Christ (i.e. the church). One of the lessons taught by Proverbs 29:18 is that harmony
within the body of believers and the restraint that such a message induces cannot be achieved
without the exhortations of the prophets and the teaching of the Word. Such a thought is also conveyed in the writings of St. Paul to the New Testament church hundreds of years later.
“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you
know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is
God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so
that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Tim. 3:14-17).
It is wise and good for a congregation to periodically re-examine its purpose, direction and
methodologies. While the Word of God never changes, the environment and conditions of its
proclamation do change.
“Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as
possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became
like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law.
To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from
God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I
might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.” (1Co.9:19-23).
When a congregation engages in ‘strategic planning’ it is merely a way for the people of God in
Christ Jesus, to once again to examine, commit and implement the mission of proclaiming and living the Gospel of Jesus Christ within the context or environment in which it is called to function
(i.e. Woodburn and the world). The planning process identifies and facilitates a decision making
process that is both proactive and, as the Holy Spirit guides, reactive to our changing environment
membership and the community around us. A strategic plan is intended to be both a benchmark
and an ongoing, flexible, living document. It helps guides the ongoing planning process even as it
is part of that process. It should be referred to frequently to examine potential decisions and mark
continued progress towards spiritual and tangible measurable goals. As situations change, as unforeseen challenges arise, and as new opportunities present themselves, the strategic plan is to
function as a yardstick against which we can be prepared to examine and implement any deviations from the plan. Specifics in the plan can be changed as the congregation is led by the Holy
Spirit, but this should occur in a manner that facilitates adequate discussion, “Make every effort to
keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace,” (Eph.4:3) and sound scriptural support and
guidance, “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the
prophet's own interpretation.” (2 Peter 1:20).
I think it can be safety said that in many instances modern marketing and business models
have had great influence on the church. Through them new terminology, ideas and ideals have
entered into our collective mind. Many Churches now have vision, mission, and purpose statements. They have strategic goals and action plans. I think many of these additions have been
beneficial. Holy Scripture is clear. Jesus Himself has given His church a mission, “Then Jesus
came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go
and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of
the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am
with you always, to the very end of the age." (Mat. 28:18-20).
The ‘Great Commission’ given by Christ Himself does not entail a ‘Great Omission’ in planning
how we are called to accomplish this task. Scripture makes it clear that God wants us to use our
brains in determining how to best fulfill that mission in our world. The process of Strategic Planning, when rooted in Scripture and guided by the Holy Spirit can be a helpful way to solicit, guide
and motivate God’s people to seek His will for His church whenever and wherever they find themselves. Proverbs 28:18 “Where there is no vision the people perish,” is a call to faith and action
but also a warning to make sure that the Word of God is always before us. It is a warning to pastors to make sure they are delivering the Word from God. It is a warning to Christians to make
sure they are delving into the Word of God.
The Church Council respectfully requests your participation over the next few months in our
planning events. Every age group is needed in order that we may hear all the voices and be
blessed by the collective wisdom of the flock. Above all, look to God’s Word, seek the guidance of
His Holy Spirit, and prayerfully prepare yourself to be used in His service. “.. to him who is able to
do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within
us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and
ever! Amen.” (Eph. 3:20-21). God Bless.. Pastor Tim.
Financial Review of the First Quarter for 2014-Income for the first quarter of 2014 was $75,898.67. This is $13,327.88 LESS than the first
quarter of last year. If income remains the same over the last nine months compared to the same
time period of last year, the income for 2014 will be $326,733.31. If this holds true, this will
mean that income will have decreased every year since 2008.
Christ Lutheran Church Finance Board uses a “Balanced Budget” format in preparing the yearly
budget. The 2015 budget will be the average of 2012, 2013, and 2014. Based on the information
we have at the current time, the budget for 2015 will be $342,400.49. This means will have to cut
$14,977 from this year’s budget.
A 2015 budget scenario was presented at the Feb. Voter’s meeting. In this budget a 2% increase
was figured in most line items with WLS holding the same. The following line items would all be
$0 amounts:
Guest Musicians
Youth Group Evangelism Stewardship
Stephen Ministry
Senior Ministry
Missions
Synod & District Social Welfare
And with all these line items $0, we will still need to cut $5,526 from the budget.
At the Feb. Voter’s meeting, a member suggested a % cut across all line items. A % Cut Budget
will be presented at the May Voter’s meeting. Here is the effect on just two line items. For example, Pastor’s salary will be cut by $2,188. WLS will be cut by $4,751. All other line items except
fixed costs will be cut by a certain %. Please attend the May voter’s meeting for more information
about this budget.
The Finance Board is only saying this is what a 2015 Budget could look like. The Finance Board
is trying to be proactive and make you aware of the situation in May instead of waiting until Nov.
Please note these numbers are approximate amounts and will change as the income changes
each month. Hopefully the income will increase over the remainder of the year and lessen the
burden on the budget.
Respectfully,
CLC Finance Board
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Our summer worship schedule begins on May 25th.
Christ Lutheran Wiser Saints
Bus Trip to Creation Museum at Cincinnati, Ohio
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
The Wiser Saints are taking a trip to the Creation Museum at Cincinnati on Tuesday, June 24th. We will be
traveling on a 29 passenger Excursions Trailways Bus. A few seats are still available.
The schedule for the day: leave the church at 7:30 a.m.; about 9:00 a.m., take a 30 minute break; and arrive
at the Museum at 11:00 a.m. We will leave the Museum at 4:00 p.m., about 5:30 p.m., take a 30 minute
break; and return to the church at 7:30 p.m.
If you wish to go with us, please contact any member of the Committee – Tom & Sandie Beerbower, Mel &
Bert Doctor, Paul & Esther Goeglein, DeWayne & Sandy Heckley, or John & Shirley Hindall.
The remaining seating will be reserved on a first-come, first served basis.
The cost per person (meals not included) is $45.00; payment may be made in cash or by check payable to
Christ Lutheran Church by Sunday, May 11th. Admission to the Museum will be paid from Wiser Saints’
funds.
We will be on a self-guided tour – you decide the exhibits, events, and theater productions that you wish to
visit.
Generations Celebration
The Christ Lutheran Women will be celebrating every generation of our women at Christ and your extended
family as well. We will recognize the Honorary members of the CLW, however this
invitation is for all
of you. Invite your Mothers, Daughters, Sons, Grandmothers, or other special people in your life. A sign-up
sheet will be posted on the bulletin board at church to help us plan. Brunch will be served and a variety of
games played. We plan to have a great time! Please join us for this special event on Saturday, May 17th
from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice
and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 2 Timothy 1:5
Memorials
Noble Doehrman— Ruth Knoblauch, Janet Hamman
Terry Sieger- Christ Lutheran Women
Lester Fry— M/M Ralph Scheiwe, M/M David Sargent, M/M Jay Matte, M/M Narvell Havoth,
M/M William Gray, & Gayle Doarbans
Berdina Roemer—Mr. Conner, CLW, M/M Roger Rekeweg, M/M W. Hoeppner, M/M Gil Hoffman, Judy Graber, Ruth Knoblauch, M/M Richard Zirkelbach, Kevin Brenneke
Phyllis Hoeppner— CLW, M/M John Ankenbruck
WISER SAINTS SCHEDULE MAY 2014
MAY Wiser Saints will be on Tuesday, May
27th
at 12 Noon.
Come and enjoy a Potluck with other Seniors. Bring something to share.
After lunch we will have our usual Euchre and Dominoes for an afternoon with fellowship and great time! All Seniors are invited to come
and join in. At our April Wiser Saints were grateful to have Renee
(Nahrwold) Schuller to tell us about the Deaconess Program which she
is doing. She mentioned about how much Christ Lutheran Church and
Woodburn Lutheran School helped her in choosing to go into this
program at the Seminary.
May - 2014
Gwen Kammeyer—
632-5200
[email protected]
Love has a name. JESUS
Love has a place. Our
hearts.
Love has a story.
And it's not finished yet.
Official Acts—April 2014
Funerals—Phyllis Hoeppner—4-10-14, Wedding—Hoeppner/Woloszyn
Baptism—Elsie Cummins—(Daughter of Chris & Langleigh Cummins)
NEEDED! Chairpersons in training are needed for
the Lions Dinner Committee, the Funeral Luncheon
Committee, and the Kitchen Committee. Also needed
will be someone to take the responsibility of laundering
the tablecloths.
Call Doris Z. for information, 632-5291.
CLW News Also needed is a volunteer for Vice
President for our Christ Lutheran Women—Please
contact Lois Goeglein—493-2710
For our members. Below is a list of Elder’s and
family assignments for your records.
Ron Weck—(Chair) 419-399-2290 [email protected]
(Josh Abbott to Chris Cummins.)
Brad Ripke—(Secretary) - 705-7175 [email protected]
(Doug Dobson to Miranda Haifley.)
Steve Bottoms -(Ushers) - 493-1250—cell-414-7461
[email protected], (Gary Hammond to Tom Keller)
Do you believe in the power of prayer??? If you do I invite
you to become a prayer warrior. This prayer chain ministry
includes members of Christ and Zion and is not limited to
women. It began in October 1980 through the efforts of Margaret Knoblauch and Beth Hoeppner. Our united prayers
have been a blessing to many and we have been blessed too.
Won’t you join us? Call Marian Kuehnert Chairman at 6324692.
Tim Gerig—(Youth)- 414-5956 [email protected]
(Brian Kitzmiller to Kris McKay)
Ron Reichhart—(Council)-402-7773,
[email protected]
(Gary Messman to Hil Riebersal)
Mark Hetrick—(Evangelism)-417-2989,
Attention: VBS is coming up soon.
[email protected]
We need volunteers to lead and a coordinator.
(Andrew Riley to Zirkelbach’s)
If you would like to and have some questions please
contact - Pastor Tim—710-0554
Woodburn Food Bank - Thanks for all the groceries that were brought through the month. It is so
good that our congregation can help stock the shelves at the Food Bank! Many people in the Woodburn
area really rely on help to feed their families. Again, Patty Shuler, Coordinator, just wants to THANK
everyone from Christ Lutheran Church for the outpouring of the love we show.
THANK YOU ALL from the Social Welfare Board, God Bless, Sandie Beerbower & Jan Hoeppner
Save the Date.
We don’t want you to miss this milestone occasion! Plan to help celebrate the 60th anniversary of Woodburn Lutheran School on
Sunday, May 18 from 2:00-4:00 Details will
be shared as we get closer to this date but
please mark your calendar now, share this information freely and plan to be there!!
Thanks to our flock for the many prayers, cards,
and concerns during Lester’s last several years
and Pastor for his regular visits since he has been
our shepherd. He was such a blessing for us.
Ruth Fry & family
Sunday School News
May 15th—Last day of Sunday
school –Balloon launch
Ladies: Save the Date
Generation Celebration on
Sat., May 17th
9:00 am to 11:00 am
Brunch, games, and fellowship
More details soon
God Bless and a big THANK YOU! To everyone who
came over and did yard work. We are so blessed and
could not have done it without you; Thanks to: Pastor Tim, Ben Borchelt, Mitchell Warnock, Cole &
Cody Osborn, Tori Moore, Isabel Edwards, and
Gavin Keller.
From—Al & Merilyn Richards
VOLUNTEERS WANTED!
Church Council met in special session on Thursday March 27th to discuss the formation of a Strategic Plan Committee for our congregation. We have decided to move
forward and present this idea along with a timeline for the committee at the May 4th
Voter’s meeting. We are currently asking for volunteers to help serve on this committee and have posted a signup sheet on the bulletin board in the Narthex. We encourage ALL age groups to sign up and will spend the entire month of April collecting
names of volunteers willing to help. Please prayerfully consider this request as we
will need a multitude of help on the committee as well as individual focus groups. It is
imperative to have representation from all age groups within our congregation.
Woodburn Lutheran School
Providing a Christ-Centered Education
Principal – David Van Spankeren
May, 2014
Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”
KIDS AGAINST HUNGER – Our 3rd quarter chapel project was Kids Against Hunger. The students at WLS
raised almost $700 to go towards this program that packages meals for hungry children in Indiana, the US,
and across the world. We also owe a big thank you to Christ Lutheran Women for donating the remaining
$300 to help us reach our goal of $1000. On April 11, at Concordia Lutheran High School, the WLS 6-8
grade students joined 5 Lutheran elementary schools as well as the high school to pack meals. Here are the
numbers:
Elementary Schools (Morning) = 38,016, High School (Afternoon) = 169,560
Total = 207,576 meals for the hungry!!!
What an amazing outpouring of God’s love to those in need. Great job WLS and great job to all Fort Wayne
Lutheran schools.
8th Grade Graduation: We have five 8th graders graduating this year. There will be a graduation ceremony on
Friday, May 30, at 7:00 PM in the school gym to honor our graduates.
A special thank you to Sharon Gerig and Bev Rekeweg for directing our chimes choirs again this school year.
We are so thankful to them for volunteering and for their service to the students of WLS.
It Isn’t HOT…It’s Cool in the Furnace…Mark your calendars for Friday, May 16, when the WLS students
will present the musical, “It’s Cool in the Furnace.” There will be a performance at 9 AM and 7 PM. The
4th-8th grade students will be featured and the PreK-3rd grade students will sing in the choir. We hope to
see you on May 16!
WLS Association Meeting – Mark your calendars for our annual Association meeting. It will be held in the school gym on
Sunday, June 1, beginning at 1:00 PM.
OUR LAST DAY OF SCHOOL for this year will be Monday, June 2. The PTL is planning a fun activity day! Watch Paw
Prints for more details.
WLS is celebrating 60 years! Come join us on Sunday, May 18 at 2:00 pm for a worship service and open house. It will
be a wonderful time to share stories of the many blessings WLS has been to so many. It will also give us all the opportunity to thank God together for all He has done for the teachers, school boards, and students of WLS. Praise the Lord for
Woodburn Lutheran School!
We rely on our many volunteers to help us keep operating costs down. We are looking for volunteers who are willing to assist in
keeping the lawns mowed. If you are able to assist us in this way, please call the school office at your convenience. Thank you
in advance for your help.
2014-2015 Enrollment
Enrollment for the 2014-2015 school year is ongoing! We currently have openings for preschool through 8th grade, however classes are filling up quickly. Call the School office for details and reserve your spot today!
16
15—Father’s Day
9:00am—Hymn Fest w/
communion
8:15am—Bible class
29 –Hymn Fest
10:00am—
Worship in the
Park
22
30
Newsletter
Deadline
23
7:00pm Stephen
6:30pm—Lions
8:15am—Bible class
9:00am—Contemporary
Worship w/communion
9
9:00am—Contemporary
Worship
,
WLS –Last Day
Chapel @9:00am
2
Monday
8 8:15am—Bible class
WLS-Association mtg. @
6:00pm
1- 8:15am—Bible class
9:00am— Worship w/
communion
Special Voter’s mtg. after
service—Re: WLS Budget
Sunday
Wiser Saints Bus
Trip—Leaving @
7:30am
24
..
17
10
3
Tuesday
* Praise team
7:00pm— Worship
25
*Praise Team
7:00pm—Worship w/
communion
18
7:00pm— Worship
* Praise team
11
7:00pm— Worship w/
communion
* Praise team
4
Wednesday
26
19
7:00pm Strategic
meeting
6:00—Finance
7:00—Council
12
6:00—Elder’s
5
Thursday
Wedding
rehearsal
27
20
13
6
Friday
June 2014 Christ Lutheran Church Calendar
Marian Kuehnert—
632-4692 —
Doris Zirkelbach—
632-5291
Pauline Zirkelbach
632-4632
Prayer Chain:
Wedding—
Boese/Schiener
28
Youth to Pastor
Tim’s
21
14
7
Saturday
Christ Lutheran Church
Nonprofit Organization
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
4412 Park St.
WOODBURN, IN
PERMIT No. 2
PO Box 127
Woodburn, IN. 46797
“Return Service Requested”
Christ Lutheran Church
Office Hours 9:00—1:00 Monday—Friday
Christ Lutheran Church Office...632-4821
Pastor Tim Edwards
710-0554
Michelle Keller, Church Secretary
632-5557
Ron Weck , Head Elder
419-399-2290
Brian Hoeppner, Chairman of Congregation
705-7021
Lois Goeglein , Chairwoman of CLW
493-2710
Tony Girod, School Board Representative
348-4212
Anyone entering the hospital or in an emergency,
please call the church office at 632-4821, or
Pastor Edwards at 710-0554
christlutheranchurchwoodburn.com