1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity

July 2015
Vol. 2015 Issue 7
Hope Lutheran
ELCA Church
1975 Old Hwy. 94 S.
St. Charles, MO 63303
Phone #
636-946-8922
1-866-986-9369
Church Website:
www.hopelutheranelca.org
Office E-Mail:
office@hopelutheranelca.org
Preschool Website:
www.hlcpelca.org
Rev. John Lundin, Sr. Pastor
Rev. Carrie McElfresh, Associate Pastor
Chaplain Shirley Talbot, Diaconal Minister
Sue Easley, Administrative Assistant
Sheri H, Preschool Director
Judy Otte, Volunteer Coordinator
Lisa Steel, Choir Director
Shane Anthony, Keyboardist
On Wednesday July 29 at 6:15 pm we will gather for our quarterly
Service of Healing and Wholeness. Drawn to the candlelight... in
the candlelight the spirit is refreshed. Away from the busyness of
our daily life responsibilities and concerns, we relax a bit in the
soft light of a candle. We sing together. We pray together. We
share communion together. We love each other. Together we
seek wholeness for ourselves, for our loved ones, for our world.
All are welcome…
Shirley Talbot
Sunday Worship Services
8, 9:30 AM, 11AM & 6 PM
June 14 - July 26
Sunday Worship Services
8:30 AM, 10 AM & 6PM
We Care, Share and Prepare so that all
Experience the Love of Jesus Christ.
Our Vision
To be known in our community as a
Spirit-led welcoming oasis of diversity
and service
I am in Haiti supporting Harvester Christian on a soccer mission
trip. It has brought the neighborhood life. The boys in the
tabbare quarter have found a place to play and learn about
Christ.
Hope Spirit is published monthly
Thanks
Steve Tompkins
Hope Lutheran ELCA Church
1975 Old Hwy. 94 S.
St. Charles, MO 63303
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HO P E SP IR IT
WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
COUNCIL OFFICERS
President
Vice President
NAME
Bob Schreiber
Steve Tompkin
PHONE
636-441-3981
636-447-2722
Secretary
Cathy Denison
314-225-3777
Financial Secretary
Treasurer
KEY MINISTRY AREA
Asset Management
Caring For Ourselves
Caring For Our world
Collaborative Ministries
Communication
Life-long Learning
Transformational Ministry
Youth Advisor
Worship, Liturgies, & Rites
Dave Steep
Sandy Wedewer
NAME
Jamie Kirn
636-940-9031
636-926-2489
HOPE STAFF
Senior Pastor
Associate Pastor
Diaconal Minister
Preschool Director
Admin. Assistant
Volunteer Coordinator
LIFT Worship Leader
Keyboardist
Choir Director
Facilities Manager
Office Volunteer
Office Volunteer
Custodian
Catering Manager
Wedding Coordinator
NAME
Rev. John Lundin
Rev. Carrie McElfresh
Chaplain Shirley Talbot
Sheri H.
Sue Easley
Judy Otte
Scott Bowles
Shane Anthony
Lisa Steel
John Otte
Marilyn Blackshear
Sharon Hesse
Rich Carlson
Jo Janis
JoAnn McDaniel
PHONE
636-946-8922
636-946-8922
636-484-2935
314-750-5169
636-946-8922
636-352-8446
636-279-0465
636-265-0932
314-827-7019
636-373-6617
636-300-3680
314-706-0416
636-625-0099
636-928-9616
636-288-7386
Spirit Editor
John Otte
636-373-6617
PHONE
636-484-0313
Are you this PERSON
Steve Tompkin
Cathy Denison
Madeline Hawkins
636-447-2722
314-225-3777
314-956-8019
Are you this PERSON
Lisa Baue
Jack King
Jan Karibian
314-640-4437
636-978-6692
314-494-9754
LOOKING FOR WORK?
Check out the Bulletin Board
between the Youth Room and
Class room 2. Companies with
job openings send information
on an ongoing basis. Check it out
to see if what you are looking for
might show up. It is easy to
find. Look for the sign saying
“Job Openings”.
PHONE
(h) 636-447-0475
(h) 314-660-3365
WEEKLY EVENTS
DAY
TIME
EVENT
LOCATION
Sundays
8:30 AM, & 10 AM
WORSHIP SERVICES
SANCTUARY
Sundays
Off for summer break
MIDRASH
RM. 3
Sundays
6:00 PM
LIFT WORSHIP
GYM
Tuesdays
10-11:30 AM
BIBLE STUDY
RMS. 2&3
HO P E SP IR IT
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PAGE 3
Birthdays & Anniversaries
Birthdays
LANGNESS Jr, David
ROBBINS, Debbie
DIGGS, Zach
GRONNEBERG, Mark
Date
1
2
3
3
PETERS, Dawn
3
VAUGHN, Benita
FOSTER, Ally
KING, Jack
LANDHERR, Lynette
CARAFFA, Beverly
ZOLMAN, Ali
JONAS, Mike
ROUTH, Lauren
MCELFRESH, Ian
ROUTH, Kevin
STILLMAN (BOURLAND ),
Meagan
HIMICH, Victor
WINDER, Sandy
GRONNEBERG, Julie
JONAS, Michael
4
7
8
10
11
11
12
12
15
16
Birthdays
Date
MONTGOMERY, Janet
18
DOZIER, Richard
20
GOERS, Krysti
20
HANAN, Adam
20
DAVIDSON-DOUGHERTY,
21
Judy
PAUL, Cindy
21
ROHRER, Karen
22
NICKISCH, Willard
23
NIELSEN, Kevin
24
STEPHAN, Betty
25
STUBBLEFIELD, Karen
25
TOLAND, Jack
25
JUST, Chase
26
BROCKEL, Natasha
27
SUMMERS, Alayna
27
16 RAEL, Caroline
28
17
17
18
18
28
30
30
31
31
SEAT, Gloria
SKIKAS, Jen
SKINNER, Nicole
FIELDS, Kevin
MEYER, Alan
HEAR YE! HEAR YE!
HEAR YE!
The Fall is Brimming with fun
1st weekend of October is
MEDIEVAL DINNER
(We need ideas)
2nd SAT of November is
Crazy Hat Brunch
Last Wednesday in
November is Pie Fest
Please contact Jo Janis at
314-330-4286
or janimage@charter.net
Anniversaries
Years Date
GREEN, Mike & Jennifer
10
2
JANIS, Darrell & Jo
51
4
MCENANEY, Patrick & Kellie
6
7
BOSCH, Jerry & Sue
43
8
WHITE, Don & Debbie
43
8
KNOBLAUCH, Greg & Rhonda
7
13
WIKOWOSKY, Shanna & Ben
3
14
LUNDIN, Nathan & Sara
23
25
MEYER, Alan & Tammie
29
26
ADKINS, James & Kim
19
27
WEDEWER, Chris & Sandy
27
30
KING, Joe & Laura
22
31
FUN! FUN! FUN!
If you like to play act, sing
and eat good food.
Do like to create Skits Scenery, etc
Contact Jo Janis at 314-330-4260
or janimage@charter.net
For more information about the
Madrigal Dinner in October
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HO P E SP IR IT
13-Jul-15
05:30 PM - 07:30 PM Weight Watchers
06/30/15 - 08:00 AM Christ
14-Jul-15
Community YG
07/12/15 - 07/18/15 Youth Mission Trip
06:00 PM - 08:00 PM Asset Mang.
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
Mtg
07:00 PM - 10:00 PM Council Meeting
06:00 PM - 08:00 PM Beyond Borders
15-Jul-15
06:15 PM - 07:00 PM Meditative
07/12/15 - 07/18/15 Youth Mission Trip
Worship
06:15 PM - 07:00 PM Meditative
07:00 PM - 08:30 PM Youth Group
Worship
2-Jul-15
16-Jul-15
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
07/12/15 - 07/18/15 Youth Mission Trip
06:00 PM - 10:00 PM Singles Volleyball
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
3-Jul-15
06:00 PM - 10:00 PM Singles Volleyball
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM NA Meeting
07:00 PM - 10:00 PM Middle School
4-Jul-15
Dance
01:00 AM - 11:30 PM INDEPENDENCE
18-Jul-15
DAY
07/12/15 - 12:30 PM Youth Mission Trip
08:00 PM - 09:30 PM AA Meeting
08:00 PM - 09:30 PM AA Meeting
5-Jul-15
08:00 AM - 09:00 AM Worship Service
08:00 AM - 09:00 AM Worship Service
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Midrash
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Midrash
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Worship Service
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Worship Service
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Worship Service
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Worship Service
20-Jul-15
06:00 PM - 07:00 PM LIFT Service
05:30 PM - 07:30 PM Weight Watchers
6-Jul-15
05:30 PM - 07:30 PM Weight Watchers 21-Jul-15
06:00 PM - 08:30 PM Good Grief Group 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM Youth Leadership 07:00 PM - 08:30 PM Men's Ministry
22-Jul-15
Mtg
06:15 PM - 07:00 PM Meditative
7-Jul-15
Worship
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Bible Study
07:00 PM - 08:30 PM Youth Group
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
23-Jul-15
8-Jul-15
09:00 AM - 02:30 PM Donna S RSVD
10:30 AM - 01:30 PM Joy Group
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
06:15 PM - 07:00 PM Meditative
06:00 PM - 10:00 PM Singles Volleyball
Worship
24-Jul-15
07:00 PM - 08:30 PM Youth Group
08:00 AM - 07/26/15 OASIS Backpack
9-Jul-15
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM NA Meeting
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
25-Jul-15
06:00 PM - 10:00 PM Singles Volleyball
07/24/15 - 07/26/15 OASIS Backpack
06:30 PM - 10:00 PM Living the
08:00 PM - 09:30 PM AA Meeting
Scriptures
26-Jul-15
10-Jul-15
07/24/15 - 03:30 PM OASIS Backpack
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM NA Meeting
08:00 AM - 09:00 AM Worship Service
11-Jul-15
01:00 PM - 04:00 PM Memorial Service 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Midrash
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Worship Service
08:00 PM - 09:30 PM AA Meeting
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Worship Service
08:00 AM - 09:00 AM Worship Service
08:00 AM - 07/18/15 Youth Mission Trip 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM LIFT Service
27-Jul-15
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Midrash
08:00 AM - 07/31/15 VBS
09:30 AM - 10:30 AM Worship Service
05:30 PM - 07:30 PM Weight Watchers
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Worship Service
06:00 PM - 07:00 PM LIFT Service
1-Jan-15
WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
28-Jul-15
07/27/15 - 07/31/15 VBS
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Bible Study
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
29-Jul-15
07/27/15 - 07/31/15 VBS
06:15 PM - 07:00 PM Meditative
Worship
30-Jul-15
07/27/15 - 07/31/15 VBS
03:30 PM - 04:30 PM Be Vivacious
06:00 PM - 10:00 PM Singles
Volleyball
31-Jul-15
07/27/15 - 08:00 PM VBS
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM NA Meeting
CALENDAR SCHEDULE
SUBJECT TO CHANGE
July Schedule
As of
June 11th
WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
HO P E SP IR IT
PAGE 5
Daily Bible Readings for January
The foundational premise of this set of daily readings is their relationship to the Sunday lectionary. The readings are chosen so that the days leading up to Sunday (Thursday through Saturday) prepare for the Sunday
readings. The days flowing out from Sunday (Monday through Wednesday) reflect upon the Sunday readings.
Jul 1
Jul 2
Jul 3
Jul 4
Jul 5
Jul 6
Jul 7
Jul 8
Jul 9
Jul 10
Jul 11
Jul 12
Jul 13
Jul 14
Psalm 88
2 Kings 20:1-11
Mark 9:14-29
Psalm 123
Jeremiah 7:1-15
1 Corinthians 4:8-13
Psalm 123
Jeremiah 7:16-26
2 Corinthians 10:7-11
Psalm 123
Jeremiah 7:27-34
Matthew 8:18-22
Ezekiel 2:1-5
Psalm 123
2 Corinthians 12:2-10
Mark 6:1-13
Psalm 119:81-88
Ezekiel 2:8—3:11
2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Psalm 119:81-88
Jeremiah 16:1-13
James 5:7-12
Psalm 119:81-88
Jeremiah 16:14-21
John 7:1-9
Psalm 85:8-13
Amos 2:6-16
Colossians 2:1-5
Psalm 85:8-13
Amos 3:1-12
Colossians 4:2-18
Psalm 85:8-13
Amos 4:6-13
Luke 1:57-80
Amos 7:7-15
Psalm 85:8-13
Ephesians 1:3-14
Mark 6:14-29
Psalm 142
Amos 5:1-9
Acts 21:27-39
Psalm 142
Amos 9:1-4
Acts 23:12-35
Jul 15 Psalm 142
Amos 9:11-15
Luke 7:31-35
Jul 16 Psalm 23
Jeremiah 10:1-16
Colossians 1:15-23
Jul 17 Psalm 23
Jeremiah 10:17-25
Acts 17:16-31
Jul 18 Psalm 23
Jeremiah 12:1-13
Luke 18:35-43
Jul 19 Jeremiah 23:1-6
Psalm 23
Ephesians 2:11-22
Mark 6:30-34, 53-56
Jul 20 Psalm 100
Jeremiah 50:1-7
Hebrews 13:17-25
Jul 21 Psalm 100
Zechariah 9:14—10:2
Acts 20:17-38
Jul 22 Psalm 100
2 Samuel 5:1-12
Luke 15:1-7
Jul 23 Psalm 145:10-18
1 Kings 19:19-21
Colossians 1:9-14
Jul 24 Psalm 145:10-18
2 Kings 3:4-20
Colossians 3:12-17
Jul 25 Psalm 145:10-18
2 Kings 4:38-41
John 4:31-38
Jul 26 2 Kings 4:42-44
Psalm 145:10-18
Ephesians 3:14-21
John 6:1-21
Jul 27 Psalm 111
Genesis 18:1-15
Philippians 4:10-20
Jul 28 Psalm 111
Exodus 24:1-11
Romans 15:22-33
Jul 29 Psalm 111
Isaiah 25:6-10a
Mark 6:35-44
Jul 30 Psalm 78:23-29
Exodus 12:33-42
1 Corinthians 11:17-22
Jul 31 Psalm 78:23-29
Exodus 12:43—13:2
1 Corinthians 11:27-34
Hospital Notification
Policy
When you are admitted to a
hospital they will ask you what
church you belong to but they
are not permitted to contact that
church.
PLEASE CALL THE
CHURCH OFFICE
When you or a family member
are admitted to the hospital so
we can add our support and
prayers.
HO P E SP IR IT
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WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
Chaplain Shirley's Corner
“We wait on God who is making all things new...and the world turns around.”
I just returned from the Central States Synod Assembly and my ears are still
ringing with these words: “What do you mean ‘mission?’ The church doesn’t need
a mission. The church IS mission. The church is what God is doing in the world.”
We do not GO to church – WE ARE the church. The eyes of heaven watch us
(Hebrews 12:1). What is God up to? Hope Lutheran Church, among others. We
are what God is up to.
We are re-presenting Jesus to the world. Making a present of Jesus to the world. Making Jesus real to the
world.
But…. but…… but…… objections dance around my head, vying for prominence. But…. like Moses I object
that I cannot speak well. But… like Jeremiah I object that I don’t have enough experience. But….. like the
rich young man I object that Jesus might want everything I have….. but what about me?
But……. like
Isaiah I object that I have unclean lips coming from a people with unclean lips. But I am not comely …. I
am not attractive …. I am not wise … But but but…. I am nowhere near perfect.
Or perhaps, like Pr. Carrie said in a sermon last month, but I AM BROKEN!
How can a broken people in a broken church in a broken world re-present Jesus to the world?
Those questions rising up inside me send me right back to the good news, the gospel of Jesus. Back to that
same chapter in Hebrews. “Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the hope set before him
endured the cross.” Back to the words of acclamation: Christ has died. Christ has risen. Christ will come
again.
What is God up to? God is up to using broken people to love and serve the world. People who get tired
and cranky. People who get sick and self-absorbed. People who get smart and smart-alecky. People who
get discouraged and depressed. People. God loves people – all of us – made in God’s image. We – the
church – are the first batch – the first fruits – the first draft – of what God is up to in the world. Sometimes
givers, sometimes receivers, what we do here on the corner behind the White Castle is a display of God’s
love.
I snapped this picture of the altar created in the Bethany College gym for our Synod Assembly. Our logo
was Hope: As we Lead, Give and Share. We are what God is up to in the world. Amazing, isn’t it!
I can be reached through the church office at 636-946-8922. ~ Chaplain Shirley ~
Making Coffee in the Commons
You pull out the basket, put in a filter, open a packet, empty it into the filter, put the pot under the basket, push
the start button. Now you all know how to be a barista. Congratulations! We haven't been having coffee and
snacks at the 11:00 service for awhile now because we are short of volunteers, and I for one miss it. Of course,
there is a little more to it. You have to haul the dirty cups back to the kitchen, put them in racks, and put them
in the dish washer. I would be glad to show you how. So, if you think you might have a talent for this
occupation, let us know. We would love to have your help. And I for one am looking forward to eating those
goodies again. Speaking of which, those alphabet letters in the weekly are a hint to the people whose last
names begin with those letters to bring something to eat next week. You don't have to bake if you don't want
to, Just grab something at the store on your way to church. If you missed your week, just bring something next
time. On the bulletin board in the narthex (next to the bathroom) there is a schedule you can take a peek
at. We appreciate all our wonderful volunteers. Ruth Lundin
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HO P E SP IR IT
PAGE 7
Parent's Corner
We were moving. You know how it is. All the last minute things you'll need get
stuffed in the car. Including our 2 year old daughter. Finally got going and
stopped to talk to a friend. When I turned around, Christy had found a bottle of
baby aspirin in my purse and stuffed a bunch in her mouth. We managed to
clear out her mouth and to judge from the amount left in the bottle, she hadn't
gotten much. But I was shaken. She was a little young to warn about drugs, but
the question comes up, when do you talk to your children about drugs? And how
do you do it? I've decided the first thing to do is arm yourself with good information. What's in these
drugs, what physical harm can they do to the brain and body, what social and mental harm, do they
steal to get money for drugs, is it illegal, will they get mixed up with gangs, will they end up in jail, will
they have records that prevent them from getting good jobs? It doesn't really work to sit them down
and give a lecture. When riding with my grandson I asked him what he thought about legalizing
marijuana. I asked him if he had tried any drugs and he said he had tried Xanax and Oxycodone from
his friends medicine cabinet. He liked the high he got from them. He said a lot of kids stay hooked
because they know how painful it is to get off them. His brother explained to him how the drugs
affected different parts of the brain and body and he stopped messing with them. He knew a lot more
about drugs than I did. It seems that asking opinions, asking questions, having discussions, being
non judgmental perhaps correcting some assumptions along the way is a good way to start. I think 4th
grade is not too early to start the discussions. The first thing is to get those unused medications out of
your house. And then pray and love them.
Joy Group
The JOY GROUP took a lovely drive up along Hwy 61 north to Bowling Green, Missouri, We wanted to tour some Amish
farms, shops, and scenery. We arrived about 11:00 and decided to start off with a nice lunch at Saint’s Avenue Cafe. The
food buffet was delicious and super fresh. The socializing was great! Afterwards we set out for some Amish shopping
and touring.
Our first stop was an Amish country store. Staples, candy, spices and fresh brown eggs! Next we went on to Noah Eicher's General Store. They had dolls, trinkets, linens, lamps, cookbooks, games, oil lamps, etc...Much fun! The young
ladies were the store clerks. Everyone else had different jobs to do. They all keep busy!
We then stopped at Hickory Stick Farm. They make wood planters, containers, pallets ,etc. We then decided we better
start back for home. We got back to St. Charles about 4 o'clock. It was an enjoyable day. We would like to do it again
one day. The farms are pretty spread out so you can't do many at a time.
We plan another activity next month. It's usually the 2nd Wed. of each month and we welcome anyone with a little free
time to come join us. We meet at church anywhere from 9:30 to 10:00 and we do carpool. Detail about next month's
activity will be in the church bulletin next Sunday. We are also open to new ideas and suggestions of somewhere you'd
like to go. COME JOIN US!!! Gerri Nold 636-947-9309
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HO P E SP IR IT
WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
GOOD GRIEF GROUP MEETING IN JULY – NEW TIME
When you experience the loss of a loved one, it can be difficult to face the future without him (or her). We have a
group at church for anyone who has lost a loved one (whether spouse or child, parent or dear friend). We also
include those who are caregivers for their loved ones who are seriously ill. We call ourselves the Good Grief Group,
looking for positive ways to live our lives in the days and years ahead. At the center of this is our Christian faith. We
talk about our feelings and help each other through our everyday lives with our loved ones who are suffering or
have passed away. Through sharing our experiences, we learn ways to handle many of the problems that we all
encounter. Someone in the group usually has ideas that can help us through the difficulties we face.
The Good Grief Group meets once a month, usually on the first Monday evening, at a local restaurant for dinner.
On July 6th, we will meet at the Three Families Restaurant at 6:00 PM. The restaurant is located at 4899 Mexico
Road in St. Peters. For more information, call Marty Brown (636-946-7085 or 636-688-9837).
Central St. Charles Thrivent Chapter - Final Newsletter
2015 Grant Recap
During the first half of 2015 the Central St. Charles Thrivent
chapter provided financial support to Lutheran congregations,
their missions and ministries, and Lutheran families in crisis.
Here is a brief recap of those grants:
Over $9,000 in grants for missions and ministry work
$3200 in Good Will grants to congregations
$2000 in grants to Lutheran families in crisis
Congratulations to all involved for another successful grant
period.
Action Teams
Make an impact with a Thrivent Action Team. If you are a
Thrivent Financial member, you can lead a Thrivent Action
Team to bring people together for a one-time project to help
others. You can coordinate an educational event, conduct a
service activity, or organize a fundraiser. Thrivent provides
planning resources, promotional items like t-shirts, and a community impact card with $250 seed money to get your project
going. To learn more or apply, connect online to
Thrivent.com/actionteam.
Time to Say Good Bye
As you may have heard, the local Thrivent Chapter system is
being replaced by a regional governance system. The St. Louis
Heartland Thrivent Regional Board begins governing our region on July 1st thus dissolving your local chapter board.
Most of your Thrivent Chapter Leaders will continue on as
Thrivent Advocates for your congregations and are available to
answer questions about Thrivent Choice Dollars and the Action Team program. Additionally, should you need local assistance with a Thrivent product local reps in the Thrivent
WingHaven office are available to help with your insurance
needs. Lastly, Thrivent corporate helpline and website are
good resources for general Thrivent questions.
Kelly Brickner (Messiah) 636-542-4042
John Priesmeyer (Zion) 636-542-4041
Karen Wilhelm’s (Living Lord) 636-357-3320
Thrivent Help Line 1-800-Thrivent, say fraternal
www.thrivent.com
As board members, we wish to thank all the congregations for
supporting the work of the Central St. Charles Thrivent Chapter throughout the years. It has been a privilege and an honor
Remember to Direct your Thrivent Choice Dollars
to serve and champion your congregation’s missions and minThroughout the year, Thrivent Choice Dollars are the way
Thrivent product owners can choose to give back to their com- istries through the Thrivent Care Abounds in Communities
grant program.
munities. Just call 1-800-Thrivent and ask for Fraternal.
Thrivent phone reps are readily available to help with your
Blessings and Peace,
Choice Dollar direction.
Jean Preall, Director of Communications
Central St. Charles Thrivent Chapter
WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
HO P E SP IR IT
PAGE 9
What is SAM FOX Excellence at Hope
A person or group of people who go above and beyond.
SAM FOX AWARD FOR JULY 2015
IS AWARDED TO NATALIE FLEMMING
For this month’s nominee for Sam Fox I went to the internet and found Natalie Fleming a member of Hope.
Natalie Fleming's art has been exhibited at the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Smithsonian, and is in many private
collections. Her favorite subjects are landscapes, nature close-ups and floral studies. She also paints commissions of
people’s homes. Fleming had a studio for fifteen years at the prestigious Montpelier Cultural Arts Center in Laurel,
Maryland & had also shown her work at the Torpedo Factory in Virginia on a regular basis for over 15 years. Natalie has an
MA in Fine Art & a MS in Art Education from Columbia University. In 2005, she moved to St. Charles, Missouri, & has already
won numerous local awards.
Natalie has been exploring the influence of art in both her career and her life for many years. She began at a young age with
a love for drawing and painting. She received a scholarship to the Carnegie Mellon College of Fine Art program, where she
then transferred to Art Education. She received her BS in Art Education from Edinboro State University and both an MS in
Art Education and a MA in Fine Art from Columbia University. From that point, she taught at all grade levels from Head
Start to the University of Maryland for 38 years. She retired early to pursue painting full time. Her work has been displayed
at both the Smithsonian and the Baltimore Museum of Art in juried exhibitions. In 1992, Fleming was selected as an
exchange artist to Kazakhstan and Kirghizstan, where some of her work is on display in the Museum of Fine Art in AlmaAlta. It is a wonderful occasion to see a true love for nature, from the smallest details in water and rock to the expanse of a
mountain range handled with subtle watercolor tones and wonderful knowledge of color.
"Nature is the primary inspiration for most of her work. Sometimes it is a vista; often it is a close up of colorful speckles in a
rock, moss or lichen, or an oil slick in a puddle of water. If nothing else, painting has taught me to see and enjoy the world
around me like never before. Then there is the joy of painting. When I am really into the act of painting, I am in another
world where I am oblivious to everything else but the painting process and what I am looking at – if I am looking at anything
at all. In plain air I am inspired by what I am looking at; I can’t replicate it and I don’t try. When I first started to paint, I
would have a plan and a clear vision of what I wanted the finished painting to look like. When the painting did not look the
way I had envisioned, I felt I had failed. It was only after many years of painting that she finally learned that there often
comes a point in the painting when the painting talks to the artist and tells the artist which way it wants to go. My fellow
artists think that she is nutty because when she paint plain air, I spend a lot of time looking for just the right spot; then
when I set up to paint, I turn my back to the scene I have chosen.
She also enjoy painting with acrylics and oils and painting abstract and non-objective paintings as well as what is referred
to as realistic. An abstract painting is one in which real subject matter is changed by distortion or placed in rationally
impossible juxtapositions to suit the artists goals. A non-objective painting is one in which the artists did not try to depict
anything real- just used shapes, lines, textures and colors to make a pleasing arrangement. If the viewer wants to read some
hidden meaning into a non-objective painting that is fine but not the artist’s intent."
Thanks to the Northside Art Association, Framations, and The Oak Leaf Artist Guild.
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HOPE LUTHERAN ELCA
Living in God’s Amazing Grace, Marked with the Cross of Christ Forever,
We are Claimed, Gathered, and Sent for the Sake of the World.
We Care, Share, and Prepare so that All Experience the Love of Jesus Christ.
JUST HOW VIBRANT IS YOUR FAITH?
It has been two years since the term Vibrant Faith was introduced into Hope’s vocabulary. A pastor by the name of Dave
Anderson visited Hope. During his visit he introduced Hope to the wisdom gleaned from many years of asking the question: Why
do some churches seem to thrive and others struggle to survive and eventually close their doors?
What was the difference? The answer was not difficult. The thriving churches did some things counter-intuitive to what churches
want to do intuitively. When people, who love their church dearly, begin to sense that not all is well, the tendency is to respond
intuitively. One of the first responses is to become fearful of the future. They hunker down and turn inward. The narrative of
what defines a church changes. The most common conversations focus on the question: “What must be done to save our
church?” or they begin to speculate how long they can survive before they will have to close their doors. This intuitive response
has consequences. Financial resources are no longer perceived as an investment for proclaiming the Gospel. The joy of sharing
resources for the sake of the Kingdom disappears. One topic seems to keep coming up in conversations: “How are we going to
meet the budget?” The focus is on survival, not revival. Guests quickly perceive their welcome as a source of more income to
meet the budget. Bickering begins.
Vibrant Faith is counterintuitive. It challenges very basic assumptions of those who fear the church may not survive. Vibrant Faith
is counterintuitive as it calls a congregation to change its narrative about itself. It is the Narrative of the Gospel. The Narrative of
the Gospel is living faith live contrary to how life is lived in the world. The world says there is not enough. The Gospel says God is
an abundant God and will provide, so stop worrying about whether the church will survive. The church belongs to God, not us.
We are not the ones with a mission who have a God. The Gospel narrative says God is on a mission. God has a church called out
to be hands of healing and wholeness in a broken and hurting world. The Gospel narrative says life is risky, painful, and
dangerous but whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. The counterintuitive response of the Gospel calls us to live
in peace within ourselves even if the world is not.
So—how do we live this strange counterintuitive life? It takes courage and a willingness to be different. Do you really want to be
authentic, available to others, and affirm others?
Are you serious about passing on the faith? Being counterintuitive is knowing:
 Faith is formed by the power of the Holy Spirit through personal trusted relationships – often in our own homes.
 The church is a living partnership between the ministry of the congregation and ministry of the home.
 Where Christ is present in faith, the home is church, too.
 Faith is caught more than it is taught.
 If we want Christian children and youth, we need Christian adults for practicing faith.
Are you serious about practicing your faith? There are four keys for living the narrative of the Gospel rather than narrative the
world. It means practicing:
 Caring Conversations
Are we willing to live Luther’s explanation to the 8th Commandment? We should fear and love God that we may not deceitfully
belie, betray, slander, nor defame our neighbor, but defend him, speak well of him, and put the best construction on everything.
 Devotions
Do we stop to listen and reflect on God’s will for our lives through scripture reading and prayer? Do we know what scripture
really says or only what we think scripture says?
 Service
Is our life all about us or are we allowing God to shape our faith through our caring for others. Does our life reflect God’s
generosity or the world’s scarcity?
 Rituals and Traditions
Do our actions and attitudes call out the best in ourselves and others? What do the rituals and traditions we practice tell others
about who we are and who we belong to?
I encourage everyone to continue this marvelous Vibrant Faith journey. Let Hope’s story be the model of Caring Conversations
who pray, worship together, and who serve others.
~Pastor John Lundin~
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Associate Pastor
~Carrie McElfresh ~
Is this the slow season?
I remember hearing about summer being the church’s slow season. It was talked about as if
once the kids were out of school everything at church stopped too. The people are all gone
on the weekends. The weekday programs are on a break. It’s the time to sit back and take a rest.
Some days I wish that were true. And maybe parts of it are true. We don’t have Sunday school or
Confirmation during the summer. We recognize that more people are on vacation so we cut back to two
services on Sunday morning. But it never really slows down around here.
There is still youth group meeting on Wednesday nights. There is our contemplative worship on Wednesday
nights too. There is Confirmation Camp in June, after Synod Assembly, and before Council Retreat. There is a
mission trip in July along with Vacation Bible School and our quarterly Healing Service. And Rally Sunday is
coming early this year by being in August instead of September. And that means that there is even more
planning going on behind the scenes.
Add to all of this our regular meetings, special planning sessions, and even a family vacation or two (if we can
find the time), and summer becomes one of our busiest times in the church.
But that is life, isn’t it? Life is always moving and growing and changing. Life never stops, and neither does
church ministry.
In talking with a number of our “newly retired” members I have found it humorous to note that retirement
(the “slow time” of life) is actually busier than working life for many. Now that they have the opportunity to
travel they find they are almost never at home or that their hobbies and extra activities have become fulltime work. So much for a quiet retirement.
But as Rick Barger, president of Trinity Seminary in Ohio, said at Synod Assembly: retirement is not a Biblical
principle. No one in the Bible ever retired. Instead you might think of it as the former vice president of our
synod, Melba Bangert, has been known to say, “You never really retire, you just await reassignment.”
I have a feeling that we have a number of people in this church who are awaiting their reassignments in
ministry. Perhaps you have stepped back from one ministry or another because you were feeling burnt out
or it no longer feels like the right fit to you. You have found yourself “retiring” from ministry in some form or
function and that is perfectly fine.
But there is no slow season in the church and we are always in need of people to do ministry. So let’s find
your next place. I am excited to help people find their next assignments. I know that the booklets for
Servants in Faith don’t always attract people to sign up. I can understand that people want to be asked
personally to join new ministries. And I firmly stand behind equipping you for a new role.
But it is hard to help you get into a position if I don’t know what interests you. So I want to encourage you to
come and talk with me. Let us work together to find you a place. No matter how much time you do or don’t
have, no matter what your gifts are, no matter how strong or weak you think your faith is we can find a place
for you.
Remember there is no slow season and there is no retirement (no matter your age). Come and talk to me and
we will find you a way to get connected!
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Oasis Food Pantry is collecting school supplies
Oasis Food Pantry is collecting school supplies for the children of our clients. You can help by donating some of
the items below by July 15. Items can be dropped in the Oasis box next to the parking lot door. Last year Oasis
gave out 428 backpacks filled with supplies. We appreciate your participation in this worthwhile mission.
Pencils No. 2
Black Pens
Red Pens
Yellow Highlighters
Narrow lined paper
Wide lined paper
Pocket Folders – Colored
Pencil boxes or bags
Erasers
Pencil Sharpeners
Dry Markers/Erasers
Kleenex
Theme books
Crayons
Scissors
Lunch Bags
Back packs
Book Bags
Notebooks
Rulers
Calculators
Colored pencils
Binders
Book Covers
COUNCIL CARING CALLS
We as a Church council want to let you know that we now have met for a second time regarding the caring
calls we have made with you. We have separated the calls into KMA areas and in our upcoming June 17 th
meeting we are going to begin selecting action items we can enact to better the church through your
comments. We are encouraged by your responses and are striving to enact the things you see that are so
vital to our worship experience. One immediate example is the survey on our worship services. Please fill it
out and return it in the offering basket or to the kiosk. Look for many more things to come.
Your Church Council
PRAISE BAND PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE FOR 2015
SEPTEMBER 13th
Any Hope members considering playing with the Band should contact Al Kranz, in person,
by phone or by e-mail 636-441-4214 ohlabwizard@sbcglobal.net
Hope Lutheran Church
Preschool Vision
A Children’s Ministry of Hope Lutheran Church
Hope Lutheran Church Preschool provides a solid
and spiritual foundation for preschool children to
lead an enriched life through diverse educational
experiences while modeling Christ’s love.
Hope Lutheran Church Preschool
is looking for a
Full Time Preschool Teacher:
 M-F Teacher needed for Faith
Based
Preschool Program
 Degree in Education or related field
 Preferred to Teach Pre-Kindergarten
Classroom, Maximum 38 Hours per week
 Paid Planning Hours
 Paid Time off
 Position begins August 1, 2015
Send resume to
hlcpdirector@hopelutheranelca.org
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Youth News
Sunday School
Youth News
Fundraisers
Rally Sunday
Blessing backpacks
August 9th
Culver’s July 6th-serve and clean
tables. You can earn money for your
“trip” account.
Contact Beth Abanathie.
Join us Wednesdays from
7pm to 8:30pm for summer
youth group! Deepen your
faith thru activities like
capture the flag and TP-ing!
Mission Trip
Youth Advisory meeting
Tues, July 7th (this is a change).
We still have open positions, so
come and check it out!
Youth Lead Worship
Reminders
Colorado July 12-18thGod’s Creation
Contact Pr Carrie
Pre-Trip gatherings
Wednesday July 1st 8:30pm
Sunday August 30th
Special thanks are due the following volunteers
VBS
Vacation Bible School-On Fire for Jesus
When: Sunday July 26th-Thurs July 30th.
Where: Hope Lutheran
Who: PreK-5th grade
Help Needed: anyone 6th grade or older
who can help in any way. Contact
Bethany Zolman or Madeline Hawkins.
Beth, Madison, Natalie Abanathie, Pr Carrie, Elisa,
Caroline Rael, Kris, Cassidy Schlatter, Olivia Hritzkowin,
Sherri, Gunnar, Victor Himich, Jen, Nick, Ben Skikas, for
volunteering to clean up 5300 flags at
Baue with the veterans.
Kris Schlatter for leading youth group Wednesday 6/3/15
Six Flags Concert Day
Saturday, July 25th
High School Paintball
Saturday, August 1st
Service
Confirmation
Anyone grades 6th -8th who would like to join
Confirmation classes in August, contact
Pastor Carrie or Sherri Himich sherrigus1@att.net
OASIS Saturdays (1st Saturday
of month) – July 4th Closed
Tween dance –
(every 3rd Friday).
Contact Cathy Denison
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Confirmed Youth Faith Statements 2015
Rylie Sullins
GOD. He’s not just some magical, supernatural character that some people believe he is. A lot of people have different
opinions on this so called “God character.” The role he plays in our lives is different for everyone. We as Christians believe that
He is our creator, our protector, our everything. I believe that God is here, he’s all around you and will never leave you. He is
the light to your darkness, the sun to your rain. There are so many analogies you could use, so you understand the point. But
sometimes it seems that god can be our enemy. For example: Why does he cause death? Why does he cause pain or
tragedies? Why does he allow people to develop illnesses? And the most important question. Why doesn’t He stop it? As a
Christian I stand firm in the belief that God knows what’s best for us, and yes sometimes what’s best for us can suck, but in the
end God has a plan for every single one of us including me. I have no clue what great or terrible things are ahead of me, but I
believe that God will never leave.
The true question is what doesn’t my faith mean to me? Throughout my life I’ve had some hardships. As a young child I had to
experience the pain of going through a divorce. I remember the conversation, the tears, the slamming of my door. I also
remember the part of me yelling at God and saying “why would you do this to me? What did my sister and I do to deserve
this?” Yet somehow I still had and still have faith.
Another time I questioned belief is when a family friend who was only 15 was hit and killed by a train, the exact spot was right
across from where I had lived. I remember thinking, “God, why did you do this? What’s wrong with you?” Somehow I still had
faith.
A couple years later my mother started noticing I was losing weight. The case wasn’t that I just lost 5 pounds and everyone
would say “good job Rylie you did it.” It was very unhealthy and unsafe and could turn out to be much worse. I remember
cutting my calorie intake to only 500 calories a day and distributing my food to other people so I didn’t have to eat it. I was so
scared no one was going to like me for who I am or what I looked like. I was so angry with God because he didn’t make me a
size 2. But standing in front of you today I’m healthy and I like the way I look.
The last thing I’m going to talk about and the most recent and probably the hardest thing for me is when my dad moved.
Around Christmas my dad, stepmom and my beautiful half-sisters had to move to Arizona for my dad’s job. So far, it’s probably
the hardest thing I’ve ever had to go through. I miss them so much and it’s hard knowing that our lives are more separated
than ever before. It’s hard not to be able to sit at dinner and listen to my four year old sister tell all of her stories of what she
did at school that day or be there when my one year old sister really starts to talk. The hardest part is not being able to hug my
dad in person when I need him. I don’t tell you all this to make you feel sad or sorry for me I tell you this to show even through
the roughest times in life, it’s important to still have faith.
Sometimes I wonder to myself how I still have faith. The truth is I might not without my family, my best friend I could ever ask
for (who is practically my sister) Bella, my friends, and all of you, my church family. I also remain in good faith because I know
my life could be so much worse. And I thank God every day that it isn’t. Thankfully I’ve been blessed to go to a Christian school
and experience these three confirmation years with all of you. And I know that my faith will never change.
Caroline Rael
I believe that God will always be there for me. Even if I feel alone, I know that he is there. I believe when God
pushes me to the edge, that I trust him fully because only two things can happen: either he will catch me when I fall
or he will teach me how to fly. He is with me in and outside of church in everything I do. I know that God is always
with me, in my heart and thoughts.
My faith to me means that I can be me because God has created us all unique and special. God knows that I am
sometimes lost, but he leads me down the right path. I know that God can trust me and I can trust Him. My faith is
my foundation for everything.
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Hope Lutheran Church ELCA
Emergency Operating Plan
What would you do if you were at Hope and you smelled smoke? What if the storm sirens goes off in the area? What if the
person next to you suddenly collapses with a medical emergency? What if an upset person walks in and starts threatening
harm to someone in the church? Would you know what action to take, who to contact, what numbers to call? Hope
Lutheran Church Council and Staff have thought of these issues and have approved an Emergency Operating Plan. In fact,
the initial plan was approved 5 years ago due to the hard work of John Otte. Unfortunately other priorities and lack of
people ready to implement the plan has resulted in not much happening except for the full implementation of the plan in
the Preschool to protect our most venerable gifts, the young children we look after every day.
Recently the Council asked Sue and I to attend a Faith Based Emergency Preparedness seminar put on for St. Charles County
churches. After our eyes were widely opened we volunteered to head up a team to update the plan and get the rest of the
church involved in the implementation. The update plan has been approved by the council and we are now ready to get the
help of the members to make a real difference in the protection of our worship community.
Preplanning is essential for successfully minimizing any adverse effects of an emergency or disaster. An emergency is any
situation – actual or imminent – that endangers the safety and lives of people or the security of property. Hope’s plan
contains current information, processes and procedures to insure the Church and its members are equipped to respond to
all physical emergencies and threats to persons and Hope property from natural and human events.
Detailed plans and information are provided on how to address medical emergencies, fire and smoke emergencies, storm
emergency, treats or intruders and other emergencies such as earthquake, toxic spills, gas leaks and bio-contamination.
The outreach section is a major part of the plan that still needs to be developed. It will address the preparation of church
member for emergencies during mission activities and the coordination of members in volunteering to help out with
emergencies outside of our community.
We have been appointed as Emergency Planning Administrators for a two year term by the Council. The responsibility of
the Planning Administrator is to maintain and update The Plan and coordinate the successful execution of The Plan. That is
a starting point, but the real success of the plan requires involvement and training of many church members. Most
commitments will require minimal time, however a dedicated team will be needed to help kick start the process. Please
consider assisting Hope to be prepared in the event of an emergency by joining the team. Your prayers are also needed for
the success of the plan’s implementation. If you are interested in helping we will have a sign-up sheet at the kiosk, or you
can reach us at 636 294 0382.
Jerry and Sue Bosch
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Shoeman Water Project,
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Once again Hope Page Turners Book Club will be collecting shoes for
the Shoeman Water Project, during the month of August.
How Can You Help? Gather the shoes you no longer wear and pair
them by tying laces together or putting a rubber band around them.
We need wearable shoes without holes. Any style of shoe is needed
from high heels to tennis shoes to flip flops. These shoes are then sold
to exporters, and the funds generated from the export of shoes provide well drilling rigs, water purification system, and hand pump repair
for Kenya and Haiti. People who thirst receive fresh drinking water.
Place your donations in a box provided in the narthex during August.
We thank you for once again for supporting this worthwhile project. Contact person: Bettie Crane 636-946-5591
WANTED: Friendly Faces!
We are looking for friendly, smiling faces to welcome our members, visitors and guests! If you would like to get
to know more people, but don't have a lot of time, this could be just the thing for you! We need folks willing to
greet people for 20 minutes or so before the service you normally attend. All you have to do is stand at the front
door, greet people as they arrive and leave, and help direct them, if there are any questions. It's an easy and
very appreciated service! Please mark the tear-off, or sign up at the kiosk, and you will be contacted about when
you will be scheduled. If you have questions, feel free to contact me at nancy953@att.net.
Thank you!! --Nancy Luedloff
HOPE MUSIC CORNER
The Lift Band leads worship for the contemporary service at 6:00 pm on Sunday evenings. Rehearsal is directly
before the service 5:00 to 5:45 pm. If you want rock band worship this is for you. Rehearsal and service are back
to back. An audition with the Lift worship leader is required.
Al Kranz does an outstanding job leading and arranging music for our praise band, an actual woodwind and brass
band, no rock in this band. Praise band plays on the first Sunday of the month at 11:00 am service. By the way
Kazoo and recorders are not permitted, the sillier you are, and the better you will get along with Al. You must
bring your own instrument.
UPCOMING Events in 2015 and 2016.
The choirs will be preparing for our 2016/2017 choir exchange with our sister city of Ludwigsburg, Germany. We
will host the choir from Germany and they will perform with us in 2016. This requires a considerable raising the
bar of music difficulty and complexity. Tentative time for the visit is August. They will host us in 2017 also the
500th Anniversary of the beginning of the Reformation era. They will be requiring housing for approximately 50
people.
Star Spangled Banner recording! We will submit a recording to the Cardinals and the Blues to see if we are
chosen to lead the national at game time.
Christmas Cabaret and radio competition
Last fall our choir did our first Cabaret. The proceeds are being saved for our Germany exchange. We will do this
again around holiday time so brush up your music for tons of fun. The cabaret date is December 5th 2015.
Additionally enter the Fresh 102.5 best choir competition. We need dynamic acts, sacred and secular. FIRST
PRIZE IS $1000.!
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HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH PRESCHOOL
A Ministry of Hope Lutheran Church
1. Now Enrolling for the 2015-2016 School Year and for Summer Classes.
2. For more information Please email:
hlcpdirector@hopelutheranelca.org
3. School Year starts August 1st.
When: Sunday, August 9th
Time: 9:30 am
Where: Hope Lutheran Church
Who: Everyone Preschool to High School Students
What: Blessings of the Backpacks for Back to School
AND
The Start of Sunday School!!!
No Need to RSVP. We will see you there!
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Camp VBS:
On Fire for Jesus
July 26 – 30th
6:00 – 8:00 pm
We are so excited for Hope’s VBS program! At Hope’s Camp VBS: On Fire for Jesus, children will hear God’s
word and learn more about their faith.
Children can look forward to fun and energetic songs, crafts, games, snacks, skits, and Bible Lessons. Each day is
a different topic and theme. Children ages 2.5 and potty trained are welcome to join us for a preschool VBS
program! Children going into Kindergarten through Fifth grade will be in groups that will work together as a
team.
The cost of this program is $15 per child and includes a T-shirt. Our Program begins at 6:00 pm and concludes
at 8:00 pm. We will have a parent hospitality room for those would like to stay while your child is exploring.
Please complete the registration forms (found online: hopelutheranelca.org); mail or drop off forms and
payment to:
Hope Lutheran Church
1975 Old Highway 94 South
St. Charles, MO 63303
636-946-8922
Donations for VBS supplies are also accepted and appreciated! Please see the VBS giving tree in Hope’s Common
area. Volunteers are also needed! Please contact Bethany Zolman at
Hope Lutheran Congratulates
Alex Ostrander on her appointment to the Naval Academy at Annapolis to begin her college and Navy career. Alex is a very talented and accomplished young lady as you would expect for someone who has earned
this spot. Only 2 people from each state are chosen to attend our various military academies. They are selected by the 2 Senators from each state for each of the military academies. Each senator picks two.
A potential high school candidate has to contact the senators with a resume and an essay explaining why they
should be selected. She must also get very high marks on both SAT and Act. Alex submitted all these to both of
the Missouri Senators and was picked by BOTH!. Only one actually makes the appointment, a total of 4 from
Missouri. The Naval Academy picks 25% women 75% men.
Alex has played both the alto sax and trumpet since 7th grade and has held her own with the adults and then
some. She has also played the keyboard for several church services. She has been a student athlete at Fort
Zumwalt East on the swim team, track team and cross country. She was also at the very top of her graduating
class in academics.
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Sharing Meals in 2015
Hope Lutheran (along with other Churches in St. Charles County) have committed to serving meals on the 3 rd Saturday of each
month to homeless people of St. Charles County. The folks that have participated know the feeling of appreciation that is given
from the persons that have had a meal served to them on those Sharing Meals Saturdays.
Hope Lutheran has supported the program through the small groups that function at Hope Lutheran. Some groups have
volunteered several times over the year. Small Group Leaders please talk to your groups about this service project and make it
a part of your Vibrant Faith. If you would like to participate and are not participating in a small group please let Beth Fauser
(rjbafauser@gmail.com) know about your interest to Get Connected with this rewarding ministry.
2015
Sharing Meals Schedule
Date
Small Group Hosting Leader Contact
7/18/2015
Venturing team/
Saindon Family
dawnpat9@gmail.com
8/15/2015 Circle Of Friends
9/19/2015 Choir
10/17/2015 Men's Ministry
Tim/Susan Hinton <thehintons@sbcglobal.net>;
lisalynnesteel@gmail.com
Justin Hawkins
11/21/2015 Misfits
Debbie Robbins 636 685-4142 debbierobbins@gmlogisticslc.com
Raquel Toland 636 379-6984 rptoland@yahoo.com
12/19/2015 Venturing Crew
suejane100@sbcglobal.net
What About This?
Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a TV for three hours or to light one
100 watt bulb for 20 hours. In spite of this, Americans throw away enough aluminum to
rebuild our entire commercial fleet of airplanes every three months!
An aluminum can may be recycled and put back on the grocery shelf as a new can in as little
as 60 days, but an aluminum can that is thrown away today will still be a can 500 years from
now!
Our paper collection was back up in May to 0.98 tons, although it’s still short of our goal. The kids are out of
school now. Have them help you gather up the accumulated magazines, catalogs, and school papers to be
recycled. They’ll be learning a wonderful lesson.
Corrugated cardboard is not accepted (the multi-layered kind with little spaces in between layers).
However, Non-corrugated cardboard IS ACCEPTED, but the boxes need to
be broken down and flattened.
And please remember—NO PHONE BOOKS PLEASE
It takes as much energy to make a single new can as it does to recycle
twenty used cans.
If you have questions, please contact Marty Brown at 636-946-7085 or
mbrown05@charter.net
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Rev. Roger Gustafson
Taken in part from Bishop Gustafson’s verbal report at the 2015 Synod Assembly
The theme of the 2015 Synod Assembly was Leading With Hope. This theme evolved in part out of the 2014
assembly theme, Fear and Hope: Living at God’s Table. We saw then that both of those realities are present
in our churches and our communities – both fear for the future and hope for the future, but that our most
dominant characteristic as people of God is hope – hope that comes to us as a gift, hope that allows us to
face the future with confidence because while we may not know what the future holds, we do know who
holds the future.
The theme of HOPE will be a multi-year emphasis here in the Central States Synod. We’re going to explore hope in
four dimensions: Leadership (Leading with Hope), Stewardship (Giving in Hope), Discipleship (Growing in Hope), and
Evangelism (Sharing Hope). The key words are Lead, Give, Grow, and Share.
We intend to emphasize a dimension of HOPE each year, and then build upon it with another dimension in the following year. We’ll introduce each dimension at a Synod Assembly, and explore it more fully in that year’s area ministry
visits and at the fall Bishop’s Convocation. We will also offer concrete tools for congregation leaders and members to
put these concepts to work in their churches. As we explore each dimension as a synod your congregation may choose
to use it as your own yearly emphasis
PAGE 22
HO P E SP IR IT
Hope Lutheran Church
Preschool Vision
A Children’s Ministry of Hope Lutheran Church
Hope Lutheran Church Preschool provides a solid
and spiritual foundation for preschool children to
lead an enriched life through diverse educational
experiences while modeling Christ’s love.
WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
WWW. HO P E LU T HE R AN E LC A.O R G
HO P E SP IR IT
PAGE 23
Hope Lutheran ELCA Church
1975 Old Hwy. 94 S.
St. Charles, MO 63303
Hope Lutheran Church is a congregation of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church of America
Central States Synod
WE ARE A CHRIST CARE AND
STEPHEN MINISTRY CONGREGATION
Non Profit Organization
U.S. Postage Paid
St. Charles, MO 63303
Permit #753
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
We are on the Web at
www.hopelutheranelca.org
Living the Scriptures Christ Care Group Shares a Meal & Hosts Open House
The Living the Scriptures Christ Care Group (LTSCCG) shared a meal on Saturday, May 16 th. Members of the
group prepared and served lasagna, salad, fruit cocktail, rolls, and cookies as part of the Sharing Meals program
that Hope Lutheran Church supports at St. John United Church of Christ. Many people were served, from young
children to older individuals all sharing the need for a nutritious meal. Those receiving the meal expressed
sincere gratitude, and the members of the LTSCCG were grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in
this important ministry.
Living the Scriptures Christ Care Group meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month to study scripture
and to discuss applying God’s word to daily life. LTSCCG has just started a new Bible study, Teaching and
Experiences of Jesus, and welcomes new members and guests. Please join us for an Open House for our July
meeting at church.
LTSCCG Open House – Hope rooms 2 and 3
9 July 2015 – 6:30 pm meet & greet, 7:00-8:30 pm Bible study & application
Study text: Mark 2:23-3:6 – Controversies Over the Sabbath
If you’re able to attend this Bible study, please contact Marty Brown (636-946-7085 or mbrown05@charter.net).
Hope to see you there!