Coming Sunday, October 18

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

We'll once again be praying and singing the Divine Service this coming Sunday, October 18 at 10 am.  We're grateful that Pastor James Blain will continue to lead us in worship and bring us God's Word & Sacrament!

Ongoing thanks for you all your help conducting our indoor services in a prudent way that minimizes risk by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing as follows:

  • Sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew, approximately 3 people apart from other family groups.

  • Celebrating the Lord's Supper at your seat in the pews by receiving the body of Christ in your open hand from the elder, taking an individual cup from the tray the pastor holds to receive the blood of Christ, and returning the cup to the usher.

  • Leaving in family groups starting from the rear of the Sanctuary at the end of the service, and greeting each other outdoors following the service as weather permits.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks are available at the Welcome Center.

• Giving offerings electronically or at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) if you cannot attend.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  We’ll look at Psalm 147, part of a group of psalms apparently written in thanksgiving for Israel's return from exile.  For what three incredible gifts does this psalm praise the Lord?  How do these words speak to us in a society so reliant on its power over nature and its technical expertise?  And how do we know that God continues to care for his people today?  Let’s learn more together!  The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning by 8:30 am, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.
 

Our onsite Sunday classes will also be in session at 9 am on October 18.  Please note that currently, per state Health Department order, indoor activities (except worship services) are allowed a maximum size of 10 people and face coverings are mandatory.

• Sunday School: God Works through Prophets and Kings for Preschool - Grade 2, taught by Deb Krueger & Tina Veitengruber, in the south classrooms downstairs.

• Lifelight: Ruth/Esther, led by Randy Gerke, in the north classrooms upstairs.  BYOB (bring your own beverage).

And we continue preparing for our annual Commemoration of the Faithful Departed on All Saints Day, Sunday, November 1st!  As in previous years, we'll be happy to include your late Christian loved ones and friends in the commemoration; you can submit their names at our website (by filling out the form at this link) or at our Welcome Center between now and Sunday, October 25th.

On October 18, we thank God for His grace shown to St. Luke, Evangelist.  It was Luke who, inspired by the Holy Spirit, did the primary research so that the Gospel he wrote includes eyewitness accounts of the birth of Jesus, along with His life, ministry, death and resurrection.  It was also Luke who accompanied the apostle Paul on his missionary journeys, then wrote The Acts of the Apostles as a "sequel" to his Gospel.  Both of these New Testament books are addressed to Theophilus, a Greek whose name means "lover of God."  I pray that, as we thank our Lord for His work in St. Luke's life, we may continue to take the Holy Scriptures to heart and grow in our love for Him every day!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming Sunday, October 11

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

We gather to pray the service of Morning Prayer this coming Sunday, October 11 at 10 am; we welcome back Pastor James Blain to lead us in worship for the next four Sundays!  

Again, thanks for all your help conducting our services in a prudent way that minimizes risk by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing by sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew.  "No Seating" signs have been placed to assist with spacing.  Family groups should space themselves 6 feet (approximately 3 people) apart from other family groups.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks will be available at the Welcome Center.

• Giving your offerings electronically or at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) if you cannot attend.  We apologize that, due to unforeseen complications, we weren't able to offer the livestream this past Sunday.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  We’ll dig into Psalm 23, perhaps the most familiar and the best loved psalm of all!  Was it just David's experience as a shepherd that guided this psalm -- or did he also have experience as a "sheep"?  How did this Psalm resonate with the people of Israel in the following centuries of triumph, exile and restoration?  And how are the descriptions and promises of our Good Shepherd fulfilled in Jesus' life and the Church's ministry?  Let's find out together!  The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning by 8:30 am, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage. 

Our onsite Sunday classes will also be in session at 9 am on October 11.  Please note that currently, per state Health Department order, indoor activities (except worship services) are allowed a maximum size of 10 people and face coverings are mandatory.

• Sunday School: God Works through Prophets and Kings for Preschool - Grade 2, taught by Deb Krueger & Tina Veitengruber, in the south classrooms downstairs.

• Lifelight: Ruth/Esther, led by Randy Gerke, in the north classrooms upstairs.  BYOB (bring your own beverage).

And we continue preparing for our annual Commemoration of the Faithful Departed on All Saints Day, Sunday, November 1st!  As in previous years, we'll be happy to include your late Christian loved ones and friends in the commemoration; you can submit their names at our website (by filling out the form at this link) or at our Welcome Center between now and Sunday, October 25th.

The theme that runs through this coming Sunday's readings is the Lord's promised wedding feast for His people -- a banquet of rich food where death is swallowed up forever (Isaiah 25), where our souls are restored (Psalm 23), to whom both bad and good are invited (Matthew 22).  I pray that all of us may daily recognize our need for God's Word, and follow our good shepherd Jesus to those green pastures -- our earthly foretaste of the heavenly feast to come!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming Sunday, October 4

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

We'll once again be praying and singing the Divine Service this coming Sunday, October 4 at 10 am.  We're grateful that Pastor Terry Hoese will be able to lead us in worship and bring us God's Word & Sacrament!

Continuing thanks for all your help conducting our indoor services in a prudent way that minimizes risk by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing as follows:

  • Sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew, approximately 3 people apart from other family groups.

  • Celebrating the Lord's Supper at your seat in the pews by receiving the body of Christ in your open hand from the elder, taking an individual cup from the tray the pastor holds to receive the blood of Christ, and returning the cup to the usher.

  • Leaving in family groups starting from the rear of the Sanctuary at the end of the service, and greeting each other outdoors following the service as weather permits.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks are available at the Welcome Center.

• Giving offerings electronically or at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) if you cannot attend.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  We’ll look at Psalm 80, where God's people plead for His help in a time of deep crisis.   What brought the nations of Israel and Judah to this desperate situation?  Why could they trust that the Lord would help them?  And which Old Testament hero of faith provides both the parallel to their plight and the model for their response?  Let’s learn more together!  The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning by 8:30 am, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.

Confirmation/Pre-Confirmation Class began last Monday evening, led by Pastor Peterson; this Sunday at 9 am, we begin the classes listed below!  Please note that currently, per Executive Order, indoor activities (except worship services) are allowed a maximum size of 10 people and face coverings are mandatory.  

• Sunday School: God Works through Prophets and Kings for Preschool - Grade 2, taught by Deb Krueger & Tina Veitengruber, in the south classrooms downstairs.

• Lifelight: Ruth/Esther, led by Randy Gerke, in the north classrooms upstairs.  BYOB (bring your own beverage).

Looking ahead, we're preparing for our annual Commemoration of the Faithful Departed on All Saints Day, Sunday, November 1st!  As in previous years, we'll be happy to include your late Christian loved ones and friends in the commemoration; you can submit their names at our website (by filling out the form at this link) or at our Welcome Center between now and Sunday, October 25th.

This coming Sunday, the Old Testament reading and Gospel show how God remains faithful to us, His people in Christ, despite our unfaithfulness. When I reflect on my life, I am grateful that my confidence is not to be founded on my family, my achievements or any merit in me -- but only on my Spirit-given faith in Jesus, through Whom I receive our heavenly Father's righteousness and grace.  I look forward to receiving those generous gifts in Word and Sacrament and celebrating the Lord's boundless goodness with you on October 4!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming Sunday, September 27

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

We will pray the service of Morning Prayer this coming Sunday, September  27 at 10 am.  Rev. Bill Cate from Spring Lake will lead us in worship and proclaim God's Word.  Continued thanks for all your help conducting our services in a prudent way that minimizes risk by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing by sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew.  "No Seating" signs have been placed to assist with spacing.  Family groups should space themselves 6 feet (approximately 3 people) apart from other family groups.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks will be available at the Welcome Center.

• Giving your offerings electronically or at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) or audio (recorded and uploaded to our Worship Resources page) if you cannot attend.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  We’ll dig into Psalm 25, where each verse begins with a succeeding letter of the Hebrew alphabet.  What are the four prayers David prays in this Psalm?  How does "fearing the Lord" rule out being "put to shame" -- and who can bring that about, anyway?  Why has the Christian Church used portions of this Psalm for Sundays in Lent?    The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning by 8:30 am, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.

As mentioned last week, LifeLight has resumed on Tuesday mornings at 10:30 am (based on the book of Revelation) and Wednesday evenings at 6 pm (based on the Gospel of Luke).  In the next couple of weeks, you can also look forward to:

• Confirmation/Pre-Confirmation Class for grades 5-8, starting Monday, September 28th at 6 pm

• Sunday School for preschool thru grade 2, starting Sunday, October 4th at 9 am

• LifeLight: Ruth/Esther, starting Sunday, October 4th at 9 am

• The Parish Service Guild, resuming regular meetings Thursday, October 8th at 12:30 pm.  Like the classes listed above, the Guild meeting will be limited to 10 people gathering in person, but online access to the meeting through ZOOM will be available for Guild members as well!

Finally, I'm happy to report that our Call Committee, lay leaders and other members who joined us online had an excellent visit with Rev. Paul Doellinger this past Tuesday night.  We thank Pastor Doellinger for traveling to Grand Rapids to spend time with us, and pray God's blessing on him and his family -- both as he continues deliberating our pastoral call, and as his infant daughter is made a child of God in the sacrament of Holy Baptism this coming weekend.  May the words "I am baptized into Christ" (from this coming Sunday's final hymn) be in all our hearts and on all our lips throughout the days to come!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Pastoral Call Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, At Messiah's special voters meeting held on Sunday, September 13, the assembly unanimously voted to call the Rev. Paul Doellinger to serve as our next pastor. Rev. Doellinger currently serves at Saint Paul Lutheran Church in Cassopolis, Michigan.

In a letter to Messiah dated September 17, Pastor Doellinger wrote: “I received the call documents on Wednesday September 16th, along with the helpful materials about the congregation and community. I look forward to reading through them in the coming days. I promise to prayerfully consider your call with reverence and diligence … May the Lord grant His Wisdom and guidance to us all … It is my intention to have a decision made in the coming weeks. In the meantime, I would like to come up to Grand Rapids and visit with you. I will be in touch to schedule a time that works best for all.”

We'll inform you of further developments as they occur.  In the meantime, please keep Pastor Doellinger, his family, the staff and members at Saint Paul, and all of us at Messiah in your prayers.  Once again, our Lutheran Service Book provides all of us with a model for our personal prayers as we go forward:

Lord Jesus Christ, You instituted the office of the public ministry and instructed Your Church to call ministers of Your Word. Having prayed for the guidance of Your Holy Spirit, we have called a pastor, the Rev. Paul Doellinger, to proclaim Your saving Gospel among us. Assist him to recognize the needs of this congregation and the welfare of Your kingdom and, if it be Your will, grant that he accept the call to serve among us. Hear us for Your own sake, as You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.
 
Yours in Christ,
 

Jonathan Chaffer, President
Mark Altemann, Chairman, Call Committee

Coming Sunday, September 20 - and beyond ...

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

We'll once again be praying and singing the Divine Service this coming Sunday, September 20 at 10 am.  Rev. Dieter Haupt will again lead us in worship and bring us God's Word & Sacrament.

Continuing thanks for all your help conducting our indoor services in a prudent way that minimizes risk.  You can help us keep going by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing as follows:

  • Sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew.  "No Seating" signs have been placed to assist with spacing.  Family groups should space themselves 6 feet (approximately 3 people) apart from other family groups.

  • Holy Communion will be brought to you in the pews by the pastor and elders (who will be masked and gloved).  Please plan to stand as able when they approach your seat, receiving the body of Christ in your open hand, then taking an individual cup from the tray to receive the blood of Christ (you'll return to cup to an usher immediately after you commune).

  • Please leave in family groups starting from the rear of the Sanctuary at the end of the service.  For now, please greet each other outdoors following the service.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks are available at the Welcome Center.

• Offerings can be given electronically or will be taken at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) if you cannot attend.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  We’ll look at Psalm 27, where David proclaims God’s goodness and prays for His continuing help.   What “one thing” did David ask of the Lord — and how can we receive the same gift?  Why can we be confident that the Lord will hear and protect us?  The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning by 8:30 am, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.

In addition, our Lifelight studies for fall are starting up; please note that currently, per Executive Order, indoor activities (except worship services) are allowed a maximum size of 10 people and face coverings are mandatory.  There are three different studies to choose from:

• Revelation, led by Shirley Hoese on Tuesday mornings at 10:30 am. This class began on September 15th, but space is still available!

• Luke, led by Dan Bohlinger on Wednesday evenings at 6 pm, starting September 23rd. 

• Ruth/Esther, led by Randy Gerke on Sunday mornings at 9:00 am, in the north classrooms (27 & 28), starting October 4th.  BYOB (bring your own beverage).

Finally, remember that our Yard Sale will be held this Friday, September 18 at 4-8 pm and Saturday, September 19 at 9 am - 2 pm, with proceeds to benefit upcoming projects at Messiah.

This coming Sunday, our readings unpack the theme of God's generosity to us -- in the free pardon offered to the people of Israel by Isaiah, in Paul telling Philippian Christians how even his imprisonment serves to advance the gospel of salvation, in Jesus' parable of the workers in the vineyard.  I look forward to receiving the Lord's generous gifts of Word and Sacrament and celebrating His boundless goodness with you!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Marian June-Hanna, 1925-2020

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

We have learned that our sister in Christ Marian June-Hanna was called home to be with our Lord on September 1, 2020, at the age of 94. Arrangements for Marian were private.

We mourn with Marian's family and friends, but we also rejoice that Marian is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ.

Marian was born September 16, 1925 in Waterloo, Iowa. She was united to the death and resurrection of Jesus in the waters of Holy Baptism on September 22, 1925, and confirmed in the Christian faith in 1939 by Rev. Arthur Braun in Chicago Heights, Illinois.

Following years spent in Lansing and Big Rapids, Marian became a member of Messiah Lutheran Church on January 10, 2015. During her years here, Marian regularly attended worship and faithfully supported Messiah's ministry.

We encourage you to remember all those who knew and loved Marian in your prayers, using this excerpt from the funeral service's Prayer of the Church as a model:

O God of grace and mercy, we give thanks for Your loving-kindness shown to Marian and to all Your servants who, having finished their course in faith, now rest from their labors. Give to Marian's family and to all who mourn comfort in their grief and a sure confidence in Your loving care that, casting all their sorrow on You, they may know the consolation of Your love. Receive our thanks for Marian and for all the blessings You bestowed on her in this earthly life. Bring us at last to our heavenly home that with her we may see You face to face in the joys of paradise; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. Amen.

Yours in Christ,

Rick Krueger

Messiah Lutheran Church

Coming Sunday, September 13

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Our next worship service of Morning Prayer will be this coming Sunday, September 13 at 10 am.  Rev. Dieter Haupt will once again be leading us in worship and proclaiming God's Word.

Continued thanks for all your help conducting our services in a prudent way that minimizes risk.  You can help us keep on going by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing by sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew.  "No Seating" signs have been placed to assist with spacing.  Family groups should space themselves 6 feet (approximately 3 people) apart from other family groups.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks will be available at the Welcome Center.

• Offerings can be given electronically or will be taken at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) or audio (recorded and uploaded to our Worship Resources page) if you cannot attend.

A reminder that we will also hold a Special Voters' Meeting following this Sunday's service, starting between 11:15 and 11:30 am.  The purpose of the meeting is to consider our Call Committee’s latest recommendations, and to work together to call a pastor to be our next shepherd at Messiah.  Special arrangements are being made to conduct this meeting in as safe and prudent a manner as possible.  More details are available on our website; please contact Jonathan Chaffer, our congregation president, or Mark Altemann, the chairman of our call committee, directly if you have questions.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  We’ll dig into Psalm 103, which praises God for all His saving benefits.  How many ways does David talk about God’s love, and what theme is present in all of them?  Who joins us in praising the Lord for His love given us in Jesus Christ?  And how many hymns in Lutheran Service Book are based on this Psalm?  Let’s find out together!  The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning by 8:30 am, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.

And, remember that Messiah's long-awaited Garage Sale is happening next week, on Friday,September 18, 4-8 pm and on Saturday, September 19, 9 am - 2 pm.   This year's proceeds will support renovations of a portion of the basement for an expanded play/large motor area for preschool, and child care for any future planned outreach activities.   Sponsored by our Parish Service Guild, the Garage Sale is no longer accepting item donations for this year's sale, but will need plenty of volunteer help; contact Sandy Hoffman or Lori Kearney if you can pitch in!

This coming Sunday, our worship focuses on God's astonishing gift of forgiveness.  The Psalmist reminds us that because of Jesus Christ,

    He does not deal with us according to our sins,
        nor repay us according to our iniquities.
    For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
        so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
    as far as the east is from the west,
        so far does he remove our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103:10-12 ESV)

Secure in that precious gift, I look forward to being with you on September 13 to feed on God's saving Word, to sing His praises, and to call the man that we pray will be our next shepherd, trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming Sunday, September 6

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

We'll continue with indoor worship, praying and singing the Divine Service this coming Sunday, September 6 at 10 am.  Rev. Dieter Haupt, who served St. John's Lutheran Church in Grand Haven for many years before his retirement, will lead us in worship and bring us God's Word & Sacrament for the next three Sundays.

Thanks once again for all your help conducting our services in a prudent way that minimizes risk.  You can help us keep moving forward by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing in these ways:

  • Sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew.  "No Seating" signs have been placed to assist with spacing.  Family groups should space themselves 6 feet (approximately 3 people) apart from other family groups.

  • Holy Communion will be brought to you in the pews by the pastor and elders (who will be masked and gloved).  Please plan to stand as able when they approach your seat, receiving the body of Christ in your open hand, then taking an individual cup from the tray to receive the blood of Christ (you'll return to cup to an usher immediately after you commune).

  • Please leave in family groups starting from the rear of the Sanctuary at the end of the service.  For now, please greet each other outdoors following the service.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks will be available at the Welcome Center.

• Offerings can be given electronically or will be taken at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) or audio (recorded and uploaded to our Worship Resources page) if you cannot attend.

• Noting that the Board of Elders will continue to explore alternative delivery of Word and Sacrament, especially for those at risk during the ongoing pandemic.  If you are interested in a small service for high-risk individuals that would be offered on Monday mornings, please contact me or Pastor Peterson.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  We'll look at Psalm 32, a prayer of repentance, forgiveness of sin and praise.  What events might King David have had in mind writing this Psalm?  Why was he at peace sharing his experience in a way that believers would sing about it?  And when do we use Psalm 32 in worship, other than when it's scheduled in our readings?  The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning by 8:30 am, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.

Two other big news items this week as well:

• A Special Voters meeting will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2020 immediately following Messiah’s 10 am service, starting between 11:15 and 11:30 am.  The purpose of the meeting is to consider our Call Committee’s latest recommendations, and to work together to call a pastor to be our next shepherd at Messiah.  Special arrangements will be made to conduct this meeting in as safe and prudent a manner as possible.  More details are available on our website; please contact Jonathan Chaffer, our congregation president, or Mark Altemann, the chairman of our call committee, directly if you have questions.

• Messiah's long-awaited Garage Sale is coming very soon!   The sale will be held on Friday, September 18, 4-8 pm and on Saturday, September 19, 9 am - 2 pm.  In an effort to support our own outreach at Messiah, the garage sale proceeds from this year will be given to the Preschool for renovations of a portion of the basement for expanded play/large motor area. The remaining portion will be donated to our LIFT group to fund child care as needed for any future planned outreach activities.   Sponsored by our Parish Service Guild, the Garage Sale is no longer accepting item donations for this year's sale, but will need plenty of volunteer help; contact Sandy Hoffman or Lori Kearney if you can pitch in!

Thanks to everyone who wished Deb and I well on our recent vacation.  It was great for both to us go away, disconnect for a bit, and be refreshed.  But it will be even better to reconnect -- to hear God's living, active Word, receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ, and respond to His love with prayer and praise together with you this coming Sunday.  In the continuing flux of our current times, the Savior's words from this Sunday's Gospel, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" (Matthew 18:20) matter more than ever!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Pastoral Call Meeting: Sunday, September 13

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

A Special Voters meeting will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2020 immediately following Messiah’s 10 am service, starting between 11:15 and 11:30 am.  The purpose of the meeting is to consider our Call Committee’s latest recommendations, and to work together to call a pastor to be our next shepherd at Messiah.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the state of emergency in the State of Michigan, special arrangements will be made to conduct this meeting in as safe and prudent a manner as possible.  Please directly contact Jonathan Chaffer, our congregation president, or Mark Altemann, the chairman of our call committee, for further details.

The Call Committee will once again present a short list of finalists, who we will review and discuss before adopting a slate of candidates, casting ballots as necessary, and taking official action to extend a pastoral call.

All adult members are encouraged to attend and join in our discussions and decisions, as we continue with this important process.  Your input is valued to make this call representative of our congregation.

Again, please contact Jonathan or Mark directly if you have questions, and please plan to attend the meeting on Sunday, September 13.  Thanks and God bless!

Coming Sunday, August 16

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,
Thank you so much for your response as we returned to indoor worship!  We will hold the Divine Service indoors this coming Sunday, August 16 at 10 am; we thank Rev. North Sherrill of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids for providing us with God's Word and Sacraments.

Since our return indoors is a continued work in progress, the Board of Elders and I also thank you for all your help conducting our services in a prudent way that minimizes risk.  You can help us keep moving forward by:

• Staying home if you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

• Maintaining minimum 6-foot social distancing in these ways:

  • sitting on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew.  "No Seating" signs have been placed to assist with spacing.  Family groups should space themselves 6 feet (approximately 3 people) apart from other family groups.

  • Holy Communion will be brought to you in the pews by the pastor and elders (who will be masked and gloved).  Please plan to stand as able when they approach your seat, receiving the body of Christ in your open hand, then taking an individual cup from the tray to receive the blood of Christ.  

  • Please leave in family groups starting from the rear of the Sanctuary at the end of the service.  Please return your individual cup to the glass bowl in the narthex on your way out.  For now, please greet each other outdoors following the service.

• Wearing face coverings (mask, scarf, or bandana), which are recommended though not required.  Masks will be available at the Welcome Center.

• Offerings can be given electronically or will be taken at the sanctuary door. 

• Watching or listening to our worship service video (livestreamed and archived on YouTube) or audio (recorded and uploaded to www.messiahgr.org) if you cannot attend.

• Noting that the Board of Elders will continue to explore alternative delivery of Word and Sacrament, especially for those at risk during the ongoing pandemic.  If you are interested in a small service for high-risk individuals that would be offered on Monday mornings, please contact me or Pastor Peterson.

Our next online Adult Bible study will be available on Sunday as well!  On August 16, We look at Psalm 67, in which God’s people praise Him for His faithfulness and ask Him to fulfill His promises. How is the Lord’s steadfast love for Abraham, Moses and His Church reflected in this Psalm? How did Jesus fulfill Israel’s prayers for themselves and all nations? (And how did Martin Luther turn this Psalm into a hymn?)  The study will premiere on our YouTube channel at 8:30 am on Sunday; you can watch before worship or later!  And you can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.

Looking ahead, Messiah's Board of Trustees has asked me to announce an Outdoor Project Night on Wednesday, August 26 from 6 pm until dusk.  To get ready for fall, the Trustees will be tackling maintenance and clean-up projects.  Contact Carol Mushong if you have questions, or to let the Trustees know you'll be there. 

With August almost halfway over, planning for fall is definitely in swing here at Messiah.  But I've realized -- probably more than I ever have before -- that, whatever plans are in process for Preschool, Christian education, our next pastoral call and more, our lives and times are ultimately in the loving hands of our heavenly Father. Saved and strengthened by His living, active Word, by remembering our Baptism daily, by the Lord's Supper which feeds us food of immortality, I pray that all of us continually look to Jesus, "the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2 ESV)

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Indoor Worship Sunday, August 9 - and more!

Dear Fellow Saints of God in Christ Jesus,

At their regular meeting last night, Messiah’s Board of Elders approved holding indoor services on Sundays at 10 am, beginning this Sunday, August 9.  The Elders took this action based on the exemption of places of religious worship, their owners and those who attend religious worship from the State of Michigan's executive orders on gatherings currently in force.  (See section 14 of Executive Order 20-160.)

Working together with Pastor Peterson, the Elders also recognized Messiah's continuing duty to conduct religious services in a safe and prudent manner during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.  Thus, the Elders have updated the Guidelines for Re-Introduction of Worship and Education.  You can read the complete updated Guidelines online; details from and based on them follow below.
 

What general Centers for Disease Control guidelines apply to us at Messiah?

• Stay home when you are sick or have underlying medical conditions.

  • Take your temperature and verify that it is below 100.4°F.

• Maintain minimum 6-foot social distancing and avoid people who are sick. 

• Avoid unnecessary touching of surfaces, handrails, and doors.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Cover your cough or sneeze. Discard soiled tissues at home.

• Wearing of face covering (mask, scarf, or bandana) is recommended, but not required.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.

How will we maintain 6-foot distancing between family units?

• We will sit on both sides of the sanctuary, with family groups alternating at the ends of every other pew. 

  • “No Seating” signs will be placed to assist with spacing.

  • Family units will space themselves 6 feet apart (approximately 3 people) from other family units. 

• Attendees will be released in family groups from the rear of the Sanctuary at the end of the service by the Elder.  For now, please greet each other outdoors following the service.

How will we minimize cross-contamination?

• Offering plates and fellowship pads will not be passed. Offerings can be given electronically or will be taken at the sanctuary door. 

• The entire service will be printed in the bulletin. Congregants should take bulletins with them for reference, then recycle or discard at home.

• Volunteers will attend the outside door for entry and exit. Inner doors will be left open. 

• No handshakes or hugs. 

• No food or coffee will be served after worship for now; kitchen remains closed. 

• Restrooms in Main Building will be open for use. Water fountains will remain out of service. 

• The Nursery remains closed.

• Holy Communion will be brought to family groups in their pews by the Pastor and Elders.  More details will follow next week.

A few other details:

• Because Messiah's activities outside of religious worship services are still subject to the State of Michigan's executive orders (10 people or less for indoor gatherings), Adult Bible Class will continue to be posted on our YouTube channel for now; watch for our next session on Psalm 18:1-6 this coming Sunday.  Plans regarding other classes, meetings and events will be forthcoming.

• RSVPs are no long needed to attend services.  Thanks to all of you who helped make the RSVP process work smoothly during our time outdoors.

• Worship service video will continue to be livestreamed and archived on YouTube.

• Worship service audio will continue to be recorded and uploaded to messiahgr.org.

• The Board of Elders will continue to explore alternative delivery methods, especially for those at risk during the ongoing pandemic.  If you are interested in a small service for high-risk individuals that would be offered on Monday mornings, please contact me or Pastor Peterson.

But wait, there's more ...

Last night, Pastor Peterson informed us that the Michigan District has completed our latest pastoral call list; we should be receiving copies later this week.  Call Committee chairman Mark Altemann will be organizing the committee for the upcoming round of our discernment process. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will guide us to the pastor our heavenly Father has already chosen for us, to lead us in the mission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Thanks once again for your continued support of Messiah's ministry through your prayers and gifts, and for your patience as we have worked through the issues and obstacles that stood in the way of indoor worship.  I am grateful that, this weekend, we can once again come together and be strengthened by Christ's presence among us in the forgiving, saving, life-giving power of His Word.  One of the responsive dialogues for this coming Sunday says it better than I ever could:

The Lord has sanctified us in the true faith. O come, let us worship Him!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming Sunday, August 2

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Our next outdoor worship service, the Divine Service with Holy Communion, will take place this coming Sunday, August 2 at 9 am.   Rev. Dr. Frank Graves will once again lead us in worship.

A few reminders:

• To help our elders, ushers and altar guild prepare for the service, please RSVP (for both attendance and communion) by Saturday, August 1 or earlier.  You can RSVP by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553 or by completing the RSVP form on our website.

• Please feel free to bring water, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, or anything else you may need to stay hydrated and comfortable. Bottled water will be available on request.

• Plan to arrive early to park, receive your service folder and give your offering.  You'll have two options for seating, both incorporating social distancing:  

  • Sit in your car with windows down, parking as directed by elders and ushers. (The audio for the service will be broadcast to car radios on 102.7 FM.) Or;

  • Bring portable outdoor seating.

• The restrooms in the fellowship hall foyer will be open for use as needed.

• Holy Communion will be distributed as follows:

  • When the usher directs your family to take communion, proceed to the sanitation area and use the hand sanitizer.  Please keep social distance if there is a waiting line formed in this area.

  • When the elder invites you to receive the Lord’s Body, please move to the line in front of the first communion table.  The elder will place the Lord’s Body, for each individual, on a plate.  Move forward and receive the Lord’s Body and move back to the line in front of the second communion table.

  • The pastor will place the individual cups of the Lord’s Blood, for each individual, on the table.  Move forward and receive the Lord’s Blood.  The pastor will dismiss you to return to your seating area.

  • All individuals who are physically able are encouraged to walk forward to receive communion.  Near the end of distribution, communion will be brought to those who request it.

• In the case of inclement weather, 

  • we will hold an indoor service with limited attendance one hour later, at 10 am..

  • The service will be livestreamed on YouTube at the rescheduled time; video and audio versions will be posted on our website after the service's completion as usual.

  • We will do our best to notify everyone of rescheduling through as many channels as possible (WOOD-TV, WZZM-TV, our website & Facebook page, email, etc.).

If you missed last Sunday's online Adult Bible study, you can watch it on our YouTube channel or on our website. Online Adult Bible studies also continue this coming Sunday; we'll look at Psalm 136.  Many of us probably know the first verse of this Psalm as a table prayer ("Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good ..."), but how else does it remind us of God's steadfast love for His people of all times and places?  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide for Psalm 136 here.

The readings for August 2 track closely with Psalm 136 -- Isaiah calls all to listen diligently to the Lord and eat what is good; to the Roman church, Paul laments the situation of those who reject God's love and prays for their deliverance; and Jesus feeds 5,000+ to end a day of healing and teaching.  As we prepare to gather, I pray that we too will listen diligently to God's Word, receive strength from Christ's Supper, and by the Spirit's power share our certain hope of salvation with the people in our lives.  May God bless and keep you all until then!

Yours in Christ,




Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming July 26

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Our next outdoor worship service of Prayer and Preaching will take place this coming Sunday, July 26 at 9 am.   Rev. Dr. Frank Graves will lead our service and preach.

A few reminders:

• To help our elders and ushers prepare for the service, please RSVP by Saturday, July 25 or earlier.  You can RSVP by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553 or by completing the RSVP form at Messiah's website.

• Please feel free to bring water, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, or anything else you may need to stay hydrated and healthy. Bottled water will be available on request.

• Please plan to arrive early to park, receive your service folder and give your offering.  You'll have two options for seating, both incorporating social distancing:  

  • Sit in your car with windows down, parking as directed by elders and ushers. (The audio for the service will be broadcast to car radios on 102.7 FM.) 

  • Bring portable outdoor seating.

• The restrooms in the fellowship hall foyer will be open for use as needed.

• In the case of inclement weather,

  • we will hold an indoor service with limited attendance one hour later, at 10 am..

  • The service will be livestreamed on YouTube at the rescheduled time; video and audio versions will be posted on our website after the service's completion as usual.

  • We will do our best to notify everyone of rescheduling through as many channels as possible (WOOD-TV, WZZM-TV, our website & Facebook page, email, etc.).

Also, online Adult Bible studies resume this coming Sunday!  Going forward, I'll be taking a look at the appointed Psalm for each week.  On July 26, we'll look at Psalm 125, one of the Songs of Ascents, used as a preparation for temple worship.  What is the picture of God's relationship to his people in this Psalm?  What support, comfort and strength can God's Word bring us in an unstable time, where fear may seem to have the upper hand?  Let's find out together!  The study will be posted on our YouTube channel Sunday morning, for viewing at the best time for you.  You can get a head start by downloading a study guide from our Bible Studies webpage.

Once again, I look forward to hearing God's living, active Word with you, then responding to His love with prayer and praise this coming Sunday.  Whatever the highs or lows of our lives right now, I pray that we take heart from the words of this Sunday's Second Reading, from the apostle Paul to the Christians in Rome: "I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39 ESV)

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

An Important Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Yesterday, we had to make quick decisions when thunderstorms moved into our area less than an hour before the scheduled start of our outdoor worship.  Our call was to move the service indoors for a limited number of attendees, also moving the time back an hour to 10 am.   The rescheduled service was livestreamed and is available for you to watch on our Worship Resources page.  We thank you for your patience and understanding.

We are obviously disappointed that we weren't able to say goodbye to Pastor and Linda Blain the way we had hoped.  They left for vacation immediately following yesterday's service, but wanted me to convey their thanks and blessings to all of you. 

Going forward, our plan in case of inclement weather will be as follows:

• If weather conditions don't allow an outdoor service, we will hold an indoor service with limited attendance one hour later, at 10 am that Sunday.

• The service will be livestreamed on YouTube at the rescheduled time.

• We will do our best to notify everyone of rescheduling through as many channels as possible (WOOD-TV, WZZM-TV, our website & Facebook page, email, etc.).

In other news:

• Our next outdoor service is scheduled for Sunday, July 26 at 9 am.  We thank Rev. Dr. Frank Graves for serving as our worship leader for the next three Sundays!  To help us prepare for the July 26th service, please RSVP by Saturday, July 25 or earlier.  You can do so by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553 or by completing the RSVP form elsewhere on this website.

• Our Sandy's Tradition lunch group will meet at Woodland Mall's Cheesecake Factory this Thursday, July 23rd at 11:30 am.  Ladies, if you are planning to attend, please let Carol Hull know by Wednesday, July 22.

• Online Bible studies will resume the weekend of July 25-26, focusing on the appointed Psalm for each Sunday.   Watch for more details later this week.

Thank you once again for your generosity, your support and your prayers as we continue navigating the difficulties of our present time.  As this coming Sunday's Epistle reminds us,  "neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39)  May we rest secure in that promise!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming July 19

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Our next outdoor worship service, the Divine Service with Holy Communion, will take place this coming Sunday, July 19 at the new time of 9 am.   We will be bidding a fond farewell to Pastor Blain, as he brings his time with us to a close.

A few reminders:

• To help our elders, ushers and altar guild prepare for the service, please RSVP (for both attendance and communion) by Saturday, July 18 or earlier.  You can RSVP by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553 or by completing the RSVP form at Messiah's website.

• Please feel free to bring water, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, or anything else you may need to stay hydrated and comfortable. Bottled water will be available on request.

• Please plan to arrive early to park, receive your service folder and give your offering.  You'll have two options for seating, both incorporating social distancing:  

  • Sit in your car with windows down, parking as directed by elders and ushers. (The audio for the service will be broadcast to car radios on 102.7 FM.) Or;

  • Bring portable outdoor seating.

• The restrooms in the fellowship hall foyer will be open for use as needed.

• Holy Communion will be distributed as follows:

  • When the usher directs your family to take communion, proceed to the sanitation area and use the hand sanitizer.  Please keep social distance if there is a waiting line formed in this area.

  • When the elder invites you to receive the Lord’s Body, please move to the line in front of the first communion table.  The elder will place the Lord’s Body, for each individual, on a plate.  Move forward and receive the Lord’s Body and move back to the line in front of the second communion table.

  • The pastor will place the individual cups of the Lord’s Blood, for each individual, on the table.  Move forward and receive the Lord’s Blood.  The pastor will dismiss you to return to your seating area.

  • All individuals who are physically able are encouraged to walk forward to receive communion.  Near the end of distribution, communion will be brought to those who request it.

• In the case of inclement weather, any necessary decisions will be made by 7 am on Sunday the 19th; notices will be posted ASAP on Messiah's website & Facebook page, and also communicated via WOOD-TV and WZZM-TV.  

Along with recognizing Pastor Blain for his faithful service to us during the past 18 months, we also congratulate our sister in Christ Theona Gee, who celebrates her 90th birthday on Sunday, July 19! 

Also, online Bible studies will resume the weekend of July 25-26, focusing on the appointed Psalm for each Sunday.   Watch for more details next week!

As always, I look forward to receiving God's gifts of Word and Sacrament with you, then responding to His love with prayer and praise this coming Sunday.  In the Epistle for July 19 (Romans 8:18-27), St. Paul reminds us that even as we suffer, we are promised that "the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God."  He points out that "hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience".  And he repeats God's glorious guarantee that "the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words."   Whatever we are wrestling with or enduring in our daily lives, I pray that we meditate on these inspired words, finding in them peace, strength and eternal joy!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming July 12

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

As we prepare for the weekend, I look forward to joining you for Messiah's Service of Prayer and Preaching this coming Sunday, June 12, at the new outdoor service time of 9 am.  A few details and reminders:

• The service will be led from the sanctuary entrance.  Audio will be amplified. If you're sitting in your car for worship, you can also tune to 100.9 FM on your radio.

• Please plan to arrive early to park, receive your service folder and give your offering.  You'll have two options for seating, both incorporating social distancing: 

  • Sit in your car with windows down, parking as directed by elders and ushers, or;

  • Bring portable outdoor seating.

• Please feel free to bring water, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, or anything else you may need to stay hydrated and comfortable. Bottled water will be available on request.

• During outdoor services, the restrooms in the fellowship hall foyer will be open for use as needed.

• In order to help us prepare, I ask that you please RSVP for the July 12 service by Saturday, July 11 or earlier. You can do so by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553, or by completing the RSVP form at Messiah's website.

• In the case of inclement weather, any necessary decisions will be made by 8 am on Sunday the 12th; notices will be posted ASAP on Messiah's website & Facebook page, and also communicated via WOOD-TV and WZZM-TV.

Messiah's calendar for the week of July 13-19 is as follows:

• Monday, July 13, 9:45-11:40 am - Pastor Peterson's office hours

• Thursday, July 16, 9:45-11:40 am - Pastor Peterson's office hours

• Friday, July 17 - Parish Assistant's day off

• Sunday, July 19, 9 am - Outdoor worship with Holy Communion

  • (also livestreamed on YouTube)

Thanks to those of you who have expressed a desire for online Adult Bible Studies to continue.  Look for news about more study sessions, based on the appointed Psalms for upcoming Sundays, in the near future!

Whether you join us in person on Sunday or watch our service online, I pray that the Holy Spirit will work the fruits of joy and love in all our hearts through God's powerful, saving Word, enabling us to live our daily lives trusting in Jesus Christ and serving our neighbors in His love.  Thanks for your continued support!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

1 Flashback, 2 Updates and More ...

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

One Flashback ...

First, thanks to all who let us know about the technical difficulties with our livestream on Sunday, July 5.  We've uploaded a corrected version of Sunday's service (including the rite of confirmation) to our YouTube channel; you can watch it by clicking on the arrow above.  It's also available for viewing at our Worship Resources webpage.
 

Two Updates ...

Messiah's Board of Elders has decided to shift our outdoor worship services to the new time of 9 am, beginning this coming Sunday, July 12. We hope that this time change will help everyone in attendance cope with the high temperatures & humidity we're experiencing this summer.  In order to help us prepare for this coming Sunday, I ask that you would please RSVP for the July 12 service by Saturday, July 11 or earlier. You can do so by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553, or by completing the RSVP form on our website.

The Elders have also finalized arrangements with Rev. Jason Peterson of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Rockford to serve as our new vacancy pastor.  (If you've been at a pastoral call meeting, you've seen Pastor Peterson in action as our circuit visitor.)  During the week, Pastor Peterson will be helping us in the areas of spiritual care, pastoral counseling, administration and education. His typical summer office hours at Messiah will be Mondays & Thursdays from 9:45-11:40 am  Any changes or exceptions will be noted in our weekly schedule, which we'll begin sending out with upcoming emails.

We thank Pastor Peterson for his willingness to help us, and we thank St. Peter's for allowing him to do so!  You can contact him directly at (734) 645-4353 or revjpeterson@yahoo.com.  (Note that the Elders are also recruiting supply pastors to lead Sunday worship services, beginning on July 26th.)

 

And More ...

Barb Brinkman has asked me to pass along the following invitation:

"Dear Ladies,  
You are invited to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Greenville to take part in the "They Saw the Lord" LWML Michigan District Convention via YouTube on Saturday, July 11, 2020, to watch the Convention on the "big screen."  The Convention will begin at 9 a.m., but we should be there by 8:30 - 8:45 a.m. to allow for social distance seating. Their Fellowship Hall is large and will accommodate proper placement.  We request that masks be worn.  The Convention will last until 1 p.m.  There will be no food served - you are welcome to bring your own lunch/snack.  Coffee, lemonade, and iced tea will be provided, or you may bring your own drink.  Hand sanitizer, masks and Lysol wipes will be available.

There will be a Gifts from the Heart In-Gathering at the Convention for Target or Walmart gift cards for the Fort Wayne and St. Louis seminarians.  We are asked to mark the gift card amount on the back of the card.  Please feel free to ask other members if they would like to go together in donating to the gift cards for the seminarians.

If you would like further information, including the Mission Grants selected for this year, you may go to the LWML Michigan District website. Also, Shirley Hoese and I are planning to go to Greenville on the 11th, and we will be happy to answer questions.  

This is a wonderful opportunity to view the LWML in action - we hope you will give prayerful consideration to attending!

If you would like to attend, please RSVP to Barb Brinkman by Tuesday, July 7."

 

In closing, I am remain grateful for all of you -- for your faithful desire for our Lord's saving Word and Sacraments, your continued prayers, and your ongoing support of Messiah's ministry.  May God continue to bless and keep you!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming July 5

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

First, I hope you'll take a few minutes to watch my interview with this year's high school graduates from Messiah.  We wish these sisters in Christ all the best going forward!

Again, I'm truly grateful to have seen so many of you at our outdoor services.  The Divine Service with Holy Communion will be offered again this coming Sunday, July 5 at 10 am.  We also rejoice that, on July 5, our Junior Confirmands will affirm their faith in the rite of Confirmation and receive the Lord's Supper with their families.

Here are a few reminders about our next service:

• To help our elders, ushers and altar guild prepare for this special service, please RSVP (for both attendance and communion) by Saturday, July 4 or earlier.  You can RSVP by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553 or by completing the RSVP form at Messiah's website.

• Warm temperatures and high humidity are currently predicted for Sunday.  Please feel free to bring water, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, or anything else you may need to stay hydrated and comfortable. Bottled water will be available on request.

• Please plan to arrive early!  When you pull into Messiah's driveway, elders and ushers will direct you to the appropriate area of the parking lot, give you service folders (with all readings, responses and music) and receive your offering.  You'll have two options for seating, both of which incorporate social distancing practices:

  • sit in your car with windows down, parking as directed by elders and ushers, or;

  • bring portable outdoor seating for the designated area of the parking lot. 

• During outdoor services, the restrooms in the fellowship hall foyer will be open for use as needed.

• Procedures for the distribution of Holy Communion as follows:

  • When the usher directs your family to take communion, proceed to the sanitation area and use the hand sanitizer.  Please keep social distance if there is a waiting line formed in this area.

  • When the elder invites you to receive the Lord’s Body, please move to the line in front of the first communion table.  The elder will place the Lord’s Body, for each individual, on a plate.  Move forward and receive the Lord’s Body and move back to the line in front of the second communion table.

  • The pastor will place the individual cups of the Lord’s Blood, for each individual, on the table.  Move forward and receive the Lord’s Blood.  The pastor will dismiss you to return to your seating area.

  • All individuals who are physically able are encouraged to walk forward to receive communion.  Near the end of distribution, communion will be brought to those who request it.

• In the case of inclement weather, any necessary decisions will be made by 8 am on Sunday the 5th; notices will be posted ASAP on Messiah's website & Facebook page, and also communicated via WOOD-TV and WZZM-TV.  

Thanks to all who participated in my adult Bible study on Martin Luther's letter, Whether One May Flee from A Deadly Plague.  You can now watch all five sessions of the study on Messiah's YouTube channel and download the letter from the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod website.  Look for information about upcoming studies in future email updates!

Also, Messiah's July newsletter should be in your mailboxes soon; it's now available online at our website, along with July's event and service calendars.
As always, I look forward to receiving God's Word and Sacrament with you, and responding to His love with prayer and praise.  As we commemorate our nation's Independence Day this weekend, I commend this prayer from Lutheran Service Book to you for your personal use:
 
Almighty God, You have given us this good land as our heritage. Grant that we remember Your generosity and constantly do Your will. Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education, and an honorable way of life. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil course of action. Grant that we, who came from many nations with many different languages, may become a united people. Support us in defending our liberties, and give those to whom we have entrusted the authority of government the spirit of wisdom, that there may be justice and peace in our land. When times are prosperous, may our hearts be thankful, and in troubled times do not let our trust in You fail; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Coming June 28-29

Dear Brothers and Sisters at Messiah,

Moving into the weekend ahead, a couple of reminders -- and more good news!
 

Worship Update

Thanks for your positive response to our first two weeks of outdoor worship services.  It's been an incredible joy to be with so many of you in person, as we've gathered to receive God's gifts of forgiveness, eternal life and salvation in His Word and Sacrament!  I'm also grateful that we've been able to provide livestreamed video and recorded audio for those of you unable to join us.

As we adjust to the rhythm of outdoor services, I look forward to praying the order of Matins together with you this coming Sunday, June 28 at 10 am.  A few details and reminders:

• The service will be led from the sanctuary entrance.  Audio will be amplified. One new wrinkle: if you're sitting in your car for worship, you can also tune to 100.9 FM for audio.  

• You'll have two options for seating, both incorporating social distancing practices: 

  • Sit in your car with windows down, parking as directed by elders and ushers, or;

  • Bring portable outdoor seating; you'll be directed to a designated area of the parking lot. 

• During outdoor services. the restrooms in the fellowship hall foyer will be open for emergency use.

• Plan to arrive early!  When you enter our driveway, elders and ushers will direct you to the appropriate area of the parking lot and give you service folders (which will contain all readings, responses and music). They'll also collect any offerings you bring.  (You can also give online.)

• If you're coming, we'd appreciate your letting us know by Saturday, June 27.  You can RSVP by calling the church office at (616) 363-2553 or by submitting the RSVP form at Messiah's website. 

• In the case of inclement weather, an indoor service of Matins with very limited attendance will be held, with livestreamed video and recorded audio available.  Any necessary decisions will be made by 8 am on Sunday the 28th; notices will be posted ASAP on Messiah's website & Facebook page, and also communicated via WOOD-TV and WZZM-TV.  

Our next Divine Service with Holy Communion will be held on Sunday, July 5 at 10 am; we will also celebrate the rite of confirmation for our three junior confirmands on that day.  Learn more about how we'll celebrate the Lord's Supper here.
 

Bible Study Update

If you've missed the last two sessions of our adult Bible study on Martin Luther's Whether One May Flee from A Deadly Plague, you can watch them on YouTube now!   Just click on the links below:

• Session 3 (June 16)

• Session 4 (June 22)

And feel free to join the final session of this study on Monday, June 29 at 7 pm!  Email me at rick.krueger@messiahgr.org for login details.

And, More Good News!

You may remember that, back in May, our preschool student Rosie Schutter completed her outpatient chemotherapy and was found to be cancer-free.  We're grateful and delighted to let you know that Rosie's final inpatient chemo and scans have now been completed, she remains cancer-free, and she has been released from treatment!  We rejoice with Rosie, her family, and our preschool staff, and thank God for His goodness and mercy to her!

We also rejoice with this year's high school graduates; we're planning to recognize and interview them online in the very near future. More details will be coming soon!

I hope you'll join me in thanking our creating, redeeming, sanctifying God for these and all His good gifts, which he generously gives us through Jesus Christ our Lord.  As His Word dwells in us richly, may He bless and keep us strong in faith throughout the days and weeks to come.

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant