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The Circle
January Worship at St. John’s
Second Weekend of Christmas
Saturday, January 3rd – Evening Light, 5 PM
Sunday, January 4th
Holy Communion, 8 AM
Sunday School, 9:25 AM
Holy Communion, 10:45 AM
Our Christmas celebration continues as we rejoice in
the “word being made flesh” and moving into our
neighborhood.
Weekend of the Baptism of our Lord
Saturday, January 10th – Evening Light,5 PM
Sunday, January 11th
Holy Communion, 8 AM
Sunday School, 9:25 AM
Holy Communion, 10:45 AM
Newcomers’ Brunch, 12 noon
In baptism, Jesus is blessed as the Son of God. In our
baptisms, we too are blessed as children of God. On
this day we will welcome new members and with
them affirm our baptisms. Plan to attend the special
Newcomers’ Brunch that follows the 10:45 am worship and begins at Noon in Kley Hall.
Second Weekend after the Epiphany
Saturday, January 17th – Evening Light, 5 PM
Sunday, January 18th
Holy Communion, 8 AM
Sunday School, 9:25 AM
Service of the Word, 10:45 AM
Today Jesus invites us to follow him and in doing so
to invite others to come and see just who he is.
Third Weekend after the Epiphany
Saturday, January 24th – Evening Light, 5 PM
Sunday, January 25th
Service of the Word, 8 AM
Sunday School, 9:25 AM
Holy Communion, 10:45 AM
When Jesus calls us to believe in the good news and
follow him, our lives are "immediately" altered by the
proclamation of the word. So it is that we stand for
the gospel reading, on our feet, ready to follow.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
January Worship
1
The Pastor’s Message
2
Adult Education / VBS / New Members
3
New Members’ Bios
4
Building Ministry / Retreat / Double Movie
Night / Snow Removal Help
5
Council Nominations / Detroit Trip
6
Car Magnets / Healing Prayer / ELCA
7
January Schedule / Columbarium / Shoe
Collection
8
Lutheran Marriage Encounter
9
Thank you / Simply Giving / Staying Connected / Stewardship
10
January Calendar
11
Birthdays & Anniversaries
12
Staff / Leadership / Updated Contact Info
Inside back
cover
The Pastor’s Message:
A New Year Brings New Beginnings
I am excited! Last summer during a time of change in our staff,
our Church Council deliberated on how to move ahead to faithfully fulfill our mission of living, growing and sharing in God’s
love. The Council rejoiced in the growth of new families who
have joined our congregation and recognized our need for further developing ministry with our youth. So after a time of
prayerful discernment, the Council decided to explore calling
another full-time Pastor who would concentrate on Youth and
Family Ministry. A job description was developed and published
in the September Circle. Then Council set to work on a Ministry Site Profile and formed a Call Committee
(Brian Becker, Chair; Kathy Atkinson, Matt Bethune, Nils Aho, Greg Powers, Aimee Hillegas and Kelly Gallagher). The profile was then sent off to the synod and within a few weeks, we received a name of a candidate.
Laura Geiger and I did an initial interview of the candidate and highly recommended the candidate to the Call
Committee. They interviewed the candidate and traveled to a neutral site to experience the candidate as a
preacher and worship leader. After discussion and prayer, the Call Committee unanimously recommended the
candidate to our Church Council. On December 10th, the Council interviewed the candidate and voted, also
unanimously, to recommend the candidate to the Congregation.
Now it is your turn to be part of the call process! On the weekend of January 17 & 18, the candidate will lead
worship and preach at all three Worship services (Saturday Evening Light at 5 pm, Sunday at 8 and 10:45 am).
Following each service there will be a Congregational Meeting in which active confirmed members will be
asked to vote, yes or no, to call the candidate as our Pastor for Youth and Family Ministry. That weekend there
will also be opportunity to meet the candidate on Saturday afternoon from 2 to 4:30 pm. The name of the candidate is kept confidential until the weekend of the congregational meeting because the candidate is pastor
who is currently serving another congregation.
So what can you do? If you have not already returned your 2015 Commitment Card, please do so as soon as
possible. That will help our leaders make wise decisions about our 2015 Spending Plan including the addition
of PYFM (Pastor for Youth and Family Ministry) salary and benefits. Plan to meet the new Pastor on Saturday
from 2 to 4:30 pm and on Sunday from 9:30 to 10:30 am, attend worship on January 17 or 18 and vote at the
Congregational Meeting. Finally, pray for St. John’s every day. You can use this prayer which has guided our
Council and Call Committee through this process:
Lord Jesus Christ, you gather us into community and command us to love one another as you
have loved us. Direct our pastors and congregation to welcome children and youth into all aspects of our mission and ministry that we might learn from one another and together minister
to all in your care, especially the least of these in whose face we see you most directly. In your
name we pray, Amen.
So I am excited because this New Year brings new possibilities for mission and ministry at St. John’s. If it is
God’s will and the will of the congregation, I am excited to welcome and work with a talented and joyful colleague while sharing in the pastoral ministry of this holy place. And finally, I am excited to continue to live,
grow and share in God’s Love with you, with the people of our community and indeed, the world.
Yours in hope,
Pastor Cynthia Krommes
2
Adult Education – January 18 to March 8
Winter Session Book Study
While the book to be read and discussed has yet to be determined, book studies
at St. John’s are always connected to living out our faith in our daily lives. Bill
Starling will serve as coordinator of the study. During this session of Adult Ed,
the Faith Life Class will be part of the Winter Book Study.
Women of the New Testament -- Part 3
There are still more sisters in Christ to meet this session with Linda Landis continuing to serve as leader.
Ongoing Adult Classes
Sunday Morning Book Club continues to meet, now in the newly redecorated Pastor’s Office. Happy Hour/Dwelling
in God’s Word explores the weekly Gospel in connection to real life and meets in Kley Hall. The group will expand
to welcome new folks from the Winter Newcomers’ Class.
SPECIAL SESSION -- SPRING NEWCOMERS February 22 – May 10
Our Spring Newcomers’ Class is a time of faith formation that begins on the first Sunday of Lent and continues
through the season of Easter – the traditional time that newcomers are welcomed into the Church through baptism and affirmation of baptism. Led by our Evangelism team, this class ends with a wonderful celebration for the
whole congregation. Register for Newcomers by calling the Church office at 610-933-3947, or by email at stjohnsphoenixville@verizon.net.
THANK YOU to our Youth Group/Senior High classes for their wonderful Advent Party Puppet Show,
their weekly Advent Calendar God’s Talk for Children Puppet Candles and their Christmas Eve Puppets.
If you want to see the Advent Party show check out the St. John’s Youtube channel at https://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=scr0LBpjNg8.
Vacation Bible School
It’s never too early to register for this year’s Vacation Bible School. Mark
your calendars for June 22 – 26 and fill out a registration form available
from the church office. Completing a registration form early guarantees you
a spot. This is especially important if you have a 3 or 4 year old as there are
only 20 openings for them. Registration is also open for Afternoon Adventures which takes place on VBS afternoons and allows for children to spend
the whole day learning and growing in faith at St. John’s.
Welcome to St. John’s!
On Sunday, January 11th, we will welcome 15 new members into
St. John’s during worship with great joy! Please see their bios on the next
page. Everyone is invited to meet them at a Newcomers’ Brunch hosted
by the Evangelism Committee beginning at 12 noon in Kley Hall. Sign up
via the yellow communication card, on the boards in the Narthex and outside of Kley Hall or by emailing the Church office. This is a terrific way to
make new friends and to build our community of faith. Our Spring Newcomers’ Class will begin on February 22nd. If you are interested in participating, please call or email the Church office.
3
Meet our New Members!
We will welcome new members on Sunday, January 11th – here’s a brief bio to
help you get to know them. Also, plan to attend the Newcomers’ Brunch that day
to meet them face to face – 12 noon in Kley Hall.
Jess Ebert recently moved to Chesterbrook from Reading where she lives with her
fiance, Scott Blain, their English bulldog, Mickey and cat, Reeses. She has always
had a passion for science and healthcare and has worked in the pharmaceutical
industry her entire career. Having recently graduated with her Master of Science
in Health Administration from Saint Joseph's University, she got a lot of free time
back and enjoys spending it with her friends and family. Jess also loves cooking, baking, crafting, playing video games (with
or without Scott), and wedding planning and is excited to become a Godmother to her best friend's son in January.
Wendy Ferguson lives in Phoenixville with her Husband Brian and three daughters. Paige, who is in the nursing program at
Immaculata University and also works at Skyzone in Oaks. Victoria is a Freshman at Virginia Tech, studying Business Management and Hospitality. Last but not least, Bethany attends PAMS and is currently enjoying being in the Confirmation Class
at St. John’s. She also loves ballet dancing at Kimberton Dance Academy.Brian is a retired Army Criminal Investigator and
Wendy is an RN. They have lived in Washington State, Upstate New York, Germany, Virginia and lastly back to Pa. Wendy,
who came to Phoenixville from England in her early twenties, loves to travel, spend time with her family, friends and two
dogs Bailey and Jasmine. Not forgetting her dear old cat "Tiger."
Steve and Renee Hollander live in Phoenixville. They have two sons, Stephen (10) and Nicholas (8). Steve works for EMC, a
technology company in Conshohocken. Renee has a fitness business offering personal training, nutrition coaching and soon
to be adding Yoga. Stephen and Nicholas are attending Schuylkill Elementary. Steve enjoys discussing the finer points of
Philadelphia sports with the boys as they pacify his hopes for a championship team. Renee has completed certifications for
her fitness business and is currently working toward a Yoga instructor certification. Stephen is very busy with piano, basketball, baseball, and karate. Nicholas spends time with piano, baseball and soccer. Family time is often centered around the
boys activities, the kitchen and summers at Ocean City, NJ.
Juan Lozada moved to Phoenixville last July from New Port Richey in Florida and is braving a Pennsylvania winter for the first
time. He works for Turbo Technicians as a Service Technician. At home he and Amy Fox are expecting a baby girl at Christmas who will join her sister Chole to fill their home with laughter and joy (and yes, sometimes sleepless nights and teething,
not to mention the special delights of puberty in a few years.) Juan enjoys spending time with family, especially Amy’s Sister
Kelly, her husband Kevin and their children.. At St. John’s, he has found a community that has makes him feel very welcome and is providing a spiritual foundation that inspires him to live a Christian life every day.
Steve and Eleanor Lundy met in 1964 when they both had summer jobs in a suitcase factory in Nashua, N.H. Steve graduated from Wentworth College in Boston, and Eleanor had a year at the University of New Hampshire, before they married and
began raising a family. They moved to the Collegeville area in 1979 when Steve was offered a position at Leeds and
Northrup in North Wales. He worked for several companies in manufacturing and quality assurance engineering, retiring in
2009. He enjoys woodworking and bowling, volunteers in a soup kitchen, and is a member of the Lions Club. Eleanor graduated from Rosemont College in 1991 and worked as a newspaper reporter, a staff writer for American Baptist Churches
USA, and a church organist, choir director, and piano teacher. She recently retired and looks forward to having more time to
work down a long list of creative projects. The Lundy’s enjoy gardening, walking, and vacations in New England. They have
three married daughters: Amy is the mother of three teenagers, and drives a school bus in Hershey, Pa. Stephanie is a second grade teacher in the Boyertown school district and has two young children. Katrina has three children and works at
home in Schwenksville, in medical billing and coding.
Kathy Tauber and her husband Detlev have lived in the Phoenixville area since 1987. Both are retired educators who now
are working part-time. Kathy works for the Penn State Great Valley campus in Malvern and also for the Upper Merion Township Public Library. She enjoys biking and walking and is an ambassador for the Schuylkill Trail. She and Det are members
of and volunteers at the Colonial Theatre. Kathy’s interests include gardening and reading and she has participated in the
book club at St. John’s as well as one in her development in Kimberton. Another interest is music which initially brought her
to the church where she sings in the senior choir as an alto. She is a member of the Afternoon Music Club of Phoenixville
and is a volunteer there as well for publicity. Lastly, she enjoys traveling and just last summer visited Wittenburg, Germany.
Heather Thompson and her husband Rob have two young daughters, Reese and Nicole and an older daughter Natalie who
lives in Virginia. Rob is a Phoenixville native, while Heather moved here in 2001. Nicole just received her First Communion
and Reese is in our First and Second Grade Sunday School class. Both girls love being at St. John’s, especially Vacation Bible School. As a family they enjoy participating in sports throughout the community as players, a coach and the best momcheerleader around. Vacations take them to Scottsdale, Arizona to visit Heather’s family.
4
A New Ministry at St. John’s
13th,
On Tuesday, January
(January 20th – snow date) we will begin a new ministry at St.
John’s specifically for retirees who would like to serve our congregation by assisting in the
care and repair of our building. The plan is to gather at 9 am to enjoy coffee and donuts (or
fruit) together and then work on a project or projects that need to be done. The group might
or might not decide to have lunch together too. The new ministry is in the planning stages.
There’s lots to be decided including dates, time, name, format…. If you are interested in
being part of this please call or email the Church Office or sign up via the yellow communication card in the bulletin. Know that your work will be deeply appreciated and that there are
projects for all skill levels.
Living in the Light of Christ
. . . you are light in the Lord. Live as children of the light.
Ephesians 5:8
The Feast of the Epiphany is celebrated on January 6. The word
epiphany means “manifestation,” “appearing,” or “showing.” Epiphany
refers both to the appearing of Christ in the world and to the arrival of
the wise ones who followed the star and presented the Christ child with
gifts. God comes among us in Jesus, bringing gifts of grace, mercy, and
forgiveness. In the waters of baptism we are called to let our lights
shine by sharing our gifts with the world.
In this Epiphany retreat “Living in the Light of Christ” we will
explore ways in which the holy appears in our lives. We will also discern our calling to be “gift” bearers of divine grace for all the world.
The retreat will take place on January 17 from 9 am to noon.
The snow date is January 24. Rev. Kris Peterson will be our facilitator.
RSVP for the retreat by calling or emailing the Church Office or through our Yellow Communication Card.
A Double Movie Night
On Saturday, January 24 two movies will be shown at St.
Johns – Luther and Frozen. Rated PG-13, the 2003 movie
Luther stars Joseph Finnes and provides a good overview of
Luther’s life and the Reformation. It will be shown in the
Fireside Room. Meanwhile, the 2013 movie Frozen will be
shown in the Eisenhower Room and features the heroic Anna. Children (and adults) are invited to bring sleeping bags
and pillows to that showing, to wear “Frozen” costumes and
sing along with the show.
Everyone is invited to a Chili Supper – meat and vegetarian chili along with cornbread prepared by our Fellowship
Committee. You are invited to bring salads or dessert and a beverage of your choice. The Chili Supper will be served
in Kley Hall and begins at 6 pm with the movies starting at approximately 6:45 pm. RSVP for either dinner or movie
or both by calling/emailing the Church Office or through the Yellow Communication Card.
Snow Removal Help Needed
Speaking of “Frozen,” while most of us are hoping that our winter will be milder than last year, it is almost inevitable that we will have to deal with snow events. Our Property Committee has arranged for the plowing of the
parking lots and roads. We are in need of volunteers to clear the sidewalks. We have a snow blower to help
with this. We are hoping to get two or three teams together. Beside volunteers we will need a coordinator for
each other. If you are able to assist, please connect with the Church Office as soon as possible by email, phone
or the yellow communication card.
5
Leaders for the Body of Christ
It is time to think about and pray for nominations to
our Church Council. Our Annual meeting will be held
on Sunday, February 22nd. Part of the meeting includes approval of a Spending Plan (Budget) for
2015, election of new Council Members and three
delegates to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod
Assembly.
The responsibilities of a member of Council include
attendance at one Council meeting each month,
serving as a liaison to a committee and once a
month lock up of the offering. Beyond that Council members are asked to pray for St. John’s each day,
continue to grow in their knowledge of God’s Word, attend worship regularly, be faithful stewards of
time, talent and treasure and to build up our community of faith. Council is the ongoing decision making
body of St. John’s that gives leadership for us to fulfill our mission of living, sharing and growing in
God’s love through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly is the annual meeting of the synodical expression of
the church, a gathering of lay and rostered (pastors and professional church workers) leaders to celebrate, and encourage and direct the ministries of the church. This year the Assembly meets on May 8 9 at the Mennonite Meetinghouse in Franconia. Beyond the pastors, St. John’s sends three delegates –
either two men and a woman or two women and a man – to the yearly assembly. For more information
about the assembly and the synod, please check out www.ministrylink.org.
Here We Come Detroit!
Like Phoenixville, the city of Detroit is experiencing a “come-back” and
will be the place where 30,000 to 40,000 Lutheran Youth and Adults
gather next July 15-19 and among them will be six youth and two adults
from St. John’s! The group will travel by bus with others from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod to the Motor City. Once there they will stay
in a hotel with other ELCA Youth and participate in the daily gatherings
in Ford Field to hear the day’s Scripture text articulated by engaging
speakers and Christian musicians, as well as stimulating video and interpretive dance. During the middle of the day, congregational groups
will take part in a three-day activity rotation that includes a day of service in the Detroit metropolitan
area (Proclaim Justice Day), a day of exploratory learning with other groups from their synod (Proclaim
Story Day), and a day of interactive learning in the Convention Center (Proclaim Community Day). They
will also be involved in a program component called Community Life, which takes place in various venues, including some hotels. The Community Life activities include dances, game rooms, prayer stations, and an activity called Final 15. The Final 15 -- a 15-minute time period where everyone at the
Gathering, regardless of where they are located, stops to pray and reflect on the Scripture of the day.
The Gathering concludes with Eucharist on Sunday morning, at which Presiding Bishop Elizabeth
Eaton will preach. Thanks to Redner’s receipt collection managed by Pam Naylor, much of the cost
for our crew to attend the gathering has already been raised! However they will be doing some fundraising projects to cover additional expenses.
6
Get Your Car Magnet!
Share the joy of St. John’s wherever you go
by placing this on your bumper – car bumper that is! (Remember to take it off before
going through an automatic car wash.)
St. John’s Magnets are available after worship in the narthex. Cost is $3.00 each.
Thanks to our Evangelism Committee for all
the ways they help us get the word out
about St. John’s!
A Global Adventure!
The ELCA Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program
invites young adults ages 19-29 to step out of their comfort
zone and challenge themselves in a one year international
mission service and learning opportunity. They will be given
the opportunity to gain new perspectives on life and work
and to build relationships across culture, race, language
and faith. Programs take place in Argentina and Uruguay,
Jerusalem/West Bank, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mexico, Central and Eastern Europe, South Africa and the United Kingdom. To learn more visit the YAGM website at http://
www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/
Churchwide-Organization/Global-Mission/Engage-in-GlobalMission/Global-Service/Basics-of-Global-Service/YoungAdults.aspx. (You can also Google: ELCA, Young Adults in
Global Mission and be directed to the site.) The St. John’s
Church Council has pledged their support to any of our
young adults who are interested in applying (and are accepted) to the program. Preferred application deadline is
February 1 for service beginning in the same year. Final application deadline is February 15. Applications received after February 15 cannot be considered. If you are interested, please speak with Pastor Krommes so that St. John’s
can plan to provide support for your year of service.
Healing Prayer Time
Many people believe in the power of prayer and
find that praying with others gives them great
comfort. Stephen Ministers will be available
every second Sunday immediately following the
services to gather at the Baptismal font and
pray for healing or other needs with parishioners on a one-to-one basis. This special prayer
time idea developed from the well-received
prayers for healing offered on St. Luke's Day
observances in October. The healing prayer
time will begin on February 8, 2015.
Summary Report as of October 31, 2014
Monthly
Budget
Year-to-Date
Actual
Budget
Actual
Income:
Envelope Giving
Other Income
$
35,379
1,467
$
30,452
936
$
353,787
14,667
$
305,263
15,894
Total Income
$
36,845
$
31,388
$
368,453
$
321,156
Expenses
$
36,938
$
29,548
$
369,372
$
330,966
Income (Deficit)
$
$
1,840
$
(92)
7
(919)
$
(9,810)
People of God Involved in God’s Work
January Schedule
Early Service
Acolytes
4
Olesya Sitkowski
11
Gabrielle Perotto
18
Will Blackledge
25
Jantzen Hawkins
Assisting Ministers
4
Jay Stearly
11
George Mansur
18
Dale Herbranson
25
Brittney Walters
Communion Assistants/Lectors
4
Erica Lucas (L)
Pat Lucas
11
Aimee Hillegas (L)
Pam Freehafer
18
Lynn Titus (L)
Don Titus
25
Carol Cully
Late Service
Tyler Pekofsky
Gabrielle VanDerveer
Savanna Muller
Paige Demutis
Sam Ahola
Deb Ahola
Margaret Walker
Sarah Bethune
Consider our Columbarium Garden
The Columbarium Committee encourages us all to
consider our final wishes and whether they would
include a niche in our beautiful Garden. We welcome
people of all faiths to the Columbarium Garden. The
pre-need cost of a niche, which can accommodate 1
or 2 urns, is $2,750, while the time-of-need cost is
$3,000. Cost for members of St. John’s is discounted
to $2,500.
Larry Fetters
Bill Starling (L)
Matuor Alier
Rachel Possinger
Mitch Reading (L)
Brian Becker
Altar Guild
4
Leilani Ash & Janet Ertell
11
Jean Herbranson & Donna Thompson
18
Carole Lauer & Toni Hadfield
25
Pat Kautz
Ushers
4
Bob Gorman
Mildred Wilson
Carol Cully
Paul Miller
Greg Krueger
George Kurtz
George Mansur
Brian Becker
11
Richard Latella
Nancy Cressman
Richard Skoniczin
Cathy Garrett
Sam Fryer
Glenn Murphy
Luanne Bindschutz
James Niness
18
Cathy Garrett
Alicia Dewey
Nathan Yurick
Jeanette Dewey
John Rawlins
Barry Church
25
Joan Carl
Dennis Duerr
Debbe Welsh
Kate Endres
Nils Aho
Margaret Walker
Counters
4
Jeff & Jeanne Schanzenbach, Sarah Bethune
11
Ulrich Rimrott, Peg Yerger, Bob & Bill Kunsch
18
Jack Ertell, George & Ellie Kurtz, Sandra Bradbury
25
George Mansur, Imtiaz & Lily Khan, Donna Anderson
Lock-Up
4
Dick Wolstenholme
Chris Huselton
11
Brian Becker
Bill Starling
18
Dale Herbranson
Karen Singer
25
Bobbi Riley
Mitch Reading
Coffee Hour
4
Worship & Music
11
7th & 8th Grade Confirmation
18
Church Council
25
Girl Scout Cookie Sunday
Creation Room
4
Teresa Olsen
Margaret Lane
11
Sarah Blattner
Laura Geiger
18
Teresa Olsen
Jen Drewes
25
Dawn Clark
Laura Geiger
.
Visit www.phoenixvillecolumbariumgarden.weebly.com
for more information.
Collecting Aluminum
Cans and Used Shoes
We’re collecting Aluminum
Cans to help send our
young people to the ELCA
Youth Gathering in Detroit
this summer. Please donate your cans in the large
box in Kley Hall.
We continue to collect used
shoes to support the St.
John’s Building Fund. Shoes
can be deposited in the boxes in the Narthex and the
Glass Entry Way into the
Christian Education wing.
THANK YOU!
8
Lutheran Marriage Encounter
ATTENTION MARRIED COUPLES: When is the last time the two of
you did something to enrich and revitalize your marriage? Make
2015 the year you resolve to take time to spend a weekend learning how to make your marriage a more intimate, loving, Christian
union. Lutheran Marriage Encounter Weekends run from Friday
night at 8 PM to Sunday around 4 PM and have been enriching
marriages for almost 40 years! There is a $45 per couple registration fee; plus toward the end of the weekend, you will be given an
opportunity to make a confidential contribution toward continuation of the program. Two nights lodging, 5 meals for each of you,
and all supplies are included.
The 2015 Pennsylvania Weekends are:
March 13-14, 2015 at the lovely Sheraton Pittsburgh Airport Hotel
located in a peaceful setting 6 miles from the Pittsburgh Airport.
April 10-12, 2015 at Toftrees Golf Resort and Conference Center
nestled in 1500 wooded acres
in
State College, PA.
September 18-20, 2015 at Spruce Lake Retreat Center, Canadensis, PA, a new, hotel-style facility on Spruce Lake in the heart of the
Pocono Mountains – an hour
north of Allentown.
October 16-18, 2015 in Lancaster, PA, at the all newly-renovated
Heritage Hotel Lancaster, home of the unique tree-house-inspired
restaurant, “Loxley’s.”
Registrations are limited, so act today to ensure that you can attend the Weekend of your choice. To
sign up online, go to: www.GodLovesMarriage.org and pay the $45 fee using your credit card, or mark
the option to mail in a check For questions, or if you would like a brochure mailed to you, contact
Pennsylvania Directors of Lutheran Marriage Encounter, Fred & Julie Schamber, at 724-325-3166 or
email: fjschamber@comcast.net.
9
Staying Connected
Besides our monthly Circle newsletter and
our weekly Life Together bulletin insert, we
stay connected with each other through:
To my St. John’s family:
Thank you for the many acts of kindness and
sympathy extended to the family of Lorraine
Gillinger during her illness and passing. They
were greatly appreciated.
Yours in Christ,
Peg Yerger

our Facebook Page “St. Johns Lutheran Church
of Phoenixville” (http://www.facebook.com/
groups/271909366183251)

our Web Site at www.stjohnphoenixville.org
 weekly email updates and our Getting More Out of
Worship emails
Dear Pastor Cindy and Friends at St. John’s:
On behalf of Phyllis Fleck, we want to thank
you for helping Phyllis get a new recliner electric
chair for her home. Phyllis had a 5 year-old
chair that had been broken for several weeks
before the Lord guided me to ask for some help.
As usual the good people of St. John’s and the
Gateway came through right away. The chair is
beautiful, comfortable and now Phyllis can once
again watch her favorite shows and eat in an
upright position and take those all-important
naps in a reclining way so all is well. Thank you
again.
Sally P. Barber
If you would like to receive The Circle newsletter electronically only, please email Sonya Sowards, our Parish Administrator, at stjohnsphoenixville@verizon.net.
To be added to or removed from our email or mailing
list, just let us know!
St. John’s offers electronic giving, which allows you
to make donations on a scheduled, automatic basis. If you are writing checks and preparing envelopes every week, you will especially appreciate
electronic giving. It is convenient for you and provides much-needed donation consistency for our
church. This is another way to eliminate the cost of
envelopes. To set up electronic donations, simply
complete the authorization form available in the
church office. Donations can be debited automatically from either a checking or savings account.
Call the church office (610-933-3947) to request
an authorization form. Thank you for your faithfulness!
Dear St. John’s Property Committee & staff:
Thank you for the use of your building for our
Fall/Holiday Workshop. We had 30 kids spend
their Saturdays learning theatre techniques and
producing our annual Holiday Revue show held
at the Colonial Theatre on December 13th. We
are grateful for the use of this wonderful space
and facilities.
Thank you!
Kristen Jennings
Secretary
A special thank you from your Stewardship Committee to all those who
prayerfully and faithfully returned their 2015 Commitment Cards. If you
have yet to do so, please return it as soon as possible. This planning is
imperative, as we plan for the possibility of new Youth and Family Pastor
in 2015. If you have not received a card, call or email the Church Office
and one will be sent to you. You are also invited to make your commitment via email to Sonya (stjohnsphoenixville@verizon.net). Thank you for
your ongoing support of the ministry of St. John’s.
10
January 2015
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
1
Fri
2
5:30p Women’s AA/
Alanon
7:00p Naranon
Sat
3
5:00p Evening Light
4
5
6
7
8
8:00a HC
9:00a SJ Singers
9:25a Christian Ed
10:45a SOW
7:00p Finance
7:30p Property
7:30p Stephen
Ministry
12:30p PACA
7:00p Diakonia
7:00p Christian Ed
7:30p Worship &
Music
10:00a Bible study
12:00p YAH Planning
3:30p Social Ministry
4:45p GS #4308
6:30p GS #4069
7:00p Alanon
7:00p Junior Choir
7:30p Nicotine Anon.
8:00p Senior Choir
10:00a Knitting
Group
5:30p Women’s AA/
Alanon
7:00p Naranon
7:15p Handbells
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
10:00a Mom’s Music
Club
7:30p Church Council
9:00a Building
Ministry
4:30p PACS Board
7:00p Diakonia
7:30p Columbarium
10:00a Bible study
7:00p Cub Scouts #119
7:00p Alanon
7:00p Junior Choir
7:30p Nicotine Anon.
8:00p Senior Choir
10:00a Knitting
Group
5:30p Women’s AA/
Alanon
7:00p Naranon
7:15p Handbells
8:15p Naranon
Support
10:00a Mom’s Art
Club
9:00a Epiphany
Retreat
5:00p Evening Light
19
20
21
22
23
24
7:00p Diakonia
7:00p Fellowship
9:00a Circle collating
10:00a Bible study
4:45p GS #4308
6:30p GS #4069
7:00p Alanon
7:00p Junior Choir
7:30p Nicotine Anon.
8:00p Senior Choir
10:00a Knitting
Group
5:30p Women’s AA/
Alanon
7:00p Naranon
7:15p Handbells
Baptism of our
Lord/New Members
Received
Circle deadline
8:00a HC
9:00a SJ Singers
9:25a Christian Ed
10:45a HC
12:00p New member
brunch
2:00p PCO rehearsal
18
8:00a HC
9:00a SJ Singers
9:25a Christian Ed
9:30p Electronics
10:45a SOW w/
baptism of Landon
Themens
6:00p GS #4083
MLK
10:30a Mom’s Big
Sisters
6:30p GS #4863
7:30p Stephen
Ministry
9
10 Baptism of our
Lord/New Members
Received
5:00p Evening Light
5:00p Evening Light
6:00p Double Movie
night w/chili supper
25 Girl Scout
26
27
28
29
30
31
Sunday
8:00a SOW
9:00a SJ Singers
9:25a Christian Ed
10:45a HC
2:00p GS #4013
2:00p PCO rehearsal
10:30a Covered
Bridge Garden Club
6:30p Kiwanis Club
7:30p Executive
7:30p Finance
10:00a Mom’s Music
Club
10:30a WELCA
7:00p Diakonia
7:00p Stewardship
10:00a Bible study
7:00p Alanon
7:00p Junior Choir
7:30p Nicotine Anon.
8:00p Senior Choir
10:00a Knitting
Group
5:30p Women’s AA/
Alanon
7:00p Naranon
7:15p Handbells
6:30p Grucci dinner
2:00p DiGioia birthday party
5:00p Evening Light
11
January 2015
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
1
2
3
Robert Dyer
Nick Mara
Shawna Moore
Gina Vitale
Sarah Vitale
Emily Walters
Ella Drewes
Craig Emery
Jayden Carey
9
10
16
17
4
5
6
7
8
Sam Knaub
Brittany Krueger
Debbe Welsh
Ashley Westerman
Janet Ertell
Devonne Moore
Barbara Robinson
Alison Thomas
Elisa Khan
Michael McIntyre
Jake New
Angela Bearoff
11
12
13
14
15
Cynthia Krommes
Elizabeth Wallace
Leah Barker
Tara Borelly
Robert Gorman
Ryan Lonsdale
Brynn Klotzbach
Jack Kramer
Katie Kramer
18
19
20
21
Lily Koup
Alec Peronteau
Margaret Lane
Rose Gatlos
Katie Miller
Peyton Barker
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Ed Naylor
Susan Schumacher
Byron Seyler
Kimberly Dastalfo
Mary Scavello
Zacchariah Wooten
Kathy Atkinson
William Stotler
Ruth Custer
John Manney
Lily Stewart
Thomas Zollers
Alexander Kraft
Whitney Wilkinson
Cindy Gadzicki
Pam Naylor
Charles Soult
Ryan Stefanowski
Robin Ferko
Connor Hudak
Stephanie Riley
Rachel Bearoff
Edward Borowy
22
23
Kathleen Keim
Larry Ney
2 Bruce & Elena Wallace
10 David & Susan Schumacher
30 William & Kathyrn Kunsch
12
24
St. John’s Lutheran Church
355 St. John’s Circle
Phoenixville, PA 19460
610-933-3947
www.stjohnphoenixville.org
E-mail: stjohnsphoenixville@verizon.net
CHURCH STAFF
Pastor:
The Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Krommes
Associate Pastor:
Thomas Kochenderfer, Jr.
Director of Music:
F. Thomas Snyder, III
Organist:
Joseph J. Lewis
Evening Light Pianist:
Sondra L. Andrews
Parish Administrator:
Sonya K. Sowards
Custodian:
Pat Fatale
Nursery Coordinator:
Arlene Hudak
Stephen Ministry Leaders:
Linda Landis — 610-935-9726
Diane Davidson — 610-933-7987
Lee Dalasio — 610-454-9884
CHURCH COUNCIL
President:
Mitch Reading
Vice President:
Dale Herbranson
Secretary:
Laura Caughlan
Treasurer:
Shirley Platzer
Assistant Treasurer:
Rose Gatlos
Financial Recording Secretary:
Mary Heiser
Assistant Financial Recording
Secretary: Shirley Platzer
Fund 3 Secretary
Kevin Gallagher
Council Representative:
Jay Stearly
Other Members of Church Council:
Brian Becker
Christine Huselton
Paul Miller
Bill Starling
Bobbi Riley
Dick Wolstenholme
Karen Singer
COMMITTEES
Christian Education:
Kathy Atkinson, Chairperson
Bill Starling, Council Rep.
Columbarium:
George Mansur, Chairperson
Bill Starling, Council Rep.
Electronics:
William Schoellkopf, Chairperson
Paul Miller & Dale Herbranson,
Council Reps.
Evangelism:
Kate Endres, Chairperson
Bobbi Riley, Council Rep.
Executive:
Dale Herbranson, Chairperson
Fellowship:
Sandy Zimmermann, Chairperson
Finance:
Jack Ertell, Chairperson
Brian Becker, Council Rep.
Property:
Keith Kenyon
Bill Schoellkopf
Co-Chairpersons
Paul Miller & Dick Wolstenholme,
Council Reps.
Social Ministry:
Debbe Welsh, Chairperson
Laura Geiger & Laura Caughlan,
Council Reps.
Stewardship:
Richard Kunsch, Chairperson
Christine Huselton, Council Rep.
Worship and Music:
Jean Herbranson, Chairperson
Jay Stearly, Council Rep.
Office Assistants:
Wayne Ledger Debbe Welsh
June Henzie
Peg Yerger Kathy Atkinson
Dottie Doepping Beverly Ott
Collators for The Circle:
Joan Carl, June Henzie, Pete Henzie,
Pat Renninger, Debbe Welsh,
Kay Mann, Peg Yerger, Daisy Custer
Postal Delivery: Debbe Welsh
The Circle Staff:
Sonya K. Sowards
Updated Contact Information
Nancy Cressman
2708 Elysia Lane
Audubon, PA 19403
(484) 392-7021 (home)
Chuck & Lee Villwock
3000 Balfour Circle Apt. 115
Phoenixville, PA 19460
(484) 920-6095
Jeanne Oglesby
1471 Long Pond Road, Apt. 411
Rochester, NY 14626
Mr. and Mrs. Derek Carr
102 Brimful Drive
Phoenixville, PA 19460-4768
Amanda& Samuel Greninger
706 Lanark Way
Silver Springs, MD 20901-2041
Robert F. Donohue
Manatawny Manor Room A112
30 Old Schuylkill Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
(610) 312-9377
Jean Donohue
Manatawny Manor Room C-309
30 Old Schuylkill Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
(610) 326-1935
St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
355 St. John’s Circle
Phoenixville, PA 19460-2582
NON. PROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
SEPA 19399
PERMIT # 6117
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
2015
ST. JOHN’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
355 St. John’s Circle
Phoenixville, PA 19460-2582
610-933-3947
www.stjohnphoenixville.org
E-mail: stjohnsphoenixville@verizon.net
A Caring, Sharing, Growing Congregation
Participating in Stephen Ministry
Winter Worship Schedule
Saturday 5 p.m. (Evening Light)
Holy Communion every Saturday
Sunday 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
Holy Communion @ Early Service 1st and 3rd Sundays
Holy Communion @ Late Service 2nd and 4th Sundays
Holy Communion @ Both Services Festival Days and 5th Sundays
Handicapped Accessible
THE CIRCLE