Theona Gee, 1930-2022

Dear brothers and sisters at Messiah,

Our sister in Christ Theona Gee was called home to be with our Lord on March 27, 2022, at the age of 91. Theona was a member of Messiah from our earliest days, joining our fellowship in 1964 and attending worship regularly until the onset of the COVID pandemic in 2020. She frequently expressed her gratitude for the calls, visits and care that she received as a homebound member, especially during the last two years.

We mourn with Theona's family and friends, but we also rejoice that Theona is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

Theona's funeral service will be held at Messiah this Thursday, March 31st at 11 am; there will be visitation an hour before the service at 10 am, and a luncheon will follow. Theona's online obituary will be available soon at Reyers North Valley Chapel's website.

Please keep all of Theona's family and friends in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

O God of grace and mercy, we give thanks for Your loving-kindness shown to Theona and to all Your servants who, having finished their course in faith, now rest from their labors. Give to Theona'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 Theona 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

March 29 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We've turned the corner - we're more than halfway through Lent, and Holy Week and the season of Easter are now in view.  We hope this handy summary of opportunites for worship, devotion and fellowship (including highlighted new events) will be helpful as you look ahead!  Details will follow in upcoming bulletins and in the April newsletter (now available online; click here or see below).

THIS COMING WEEK (THROUGH APRIL 3RD):

  • Lenten Midweek Worship, Wednesday, March 30th, 11:00 am and 7:00 pm. (The evening service will be livestreamed.)

  • Worship, Sunday School and Bible Class, Sunday, April 3rd.


IN THE COMING WEEKS (APRIL 4TH THROUGH 17TH):

  • Lenten Midweek Worship, Wednesday, April 6th, 11:00 am and 7:00 pm. (The evening service will be livestreamed.)

  • Lutheran Women's Missionary League Spring Rally, Saturday, April 9th, 9:30 am at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockford.

  • Making palm crosses, Saturday, April 9th, 1:15 pm.

  • Palm Sunday worship, Sunday School and Bible Class, April 10th

  • Holy Thursday service, April 14th, 7 pm (also livestreamed).

  • Good Friday services, April 15th, 11 am and 7 pm. (Please note the time change from previous years for the daytime service. The evening service will be livestreamed.)

  • Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, April 16th at 10 am. Volunteer sign-ups are now available; online registration for families is coming this week!

  • Easter Sunday services, April 17th, 7:30 and 10:30 am. (Please note the time change. The 10:30 am service will also be livestreamed.)


AFTER EASTER:

  • NEW EVENT! LIFT Game Night, Friday, April 22nd, 6:30 to 8:00 pm.

  • NEW EVENT! Spring Clean-Up Day, Saturday, April 23rd, 8:00 am to 12 pm.

  • NEW EVENT! Prayer Pals, Sunday, May 1st at 6:00 pm.



APRIL NEWSLETTER
Our April newsletter is now available online!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news.

WORSHIP SCHEDULE
With the exception of Easter Sunday (see the notice above), Sunday worship and education continue as follows:



WEEKDAY CLASSES
Our women's CARES group is in recess until this fall; our other weekday education offerings continue during March! You can find more information and samples at www.messiahgr.org/education.

  • Catechism for all ages, Mondays at 6:00 pm in the sanctuary.

  • Lifelight: 2 Corinthians, beginning Tuesdays at 10:30 am. Contact Shirley Hoese for further details.

  • Lifelight: Judges, beginning Tuesdays at 6:00 pm. Contact Dan Bohlinger for further details.


LOOKING AHEAD TO HOLY WEEK
My song is love unknown,
My Savior’s love to me,
Love to the loveless shown
That they might lovely be.
Oh, who am I
That for my sake
My Lord should take
Frail flesh and die?

Here might I stay and sing,
No story so divine!
Never was love, dear King,
Never was grief like Thine.
This is my friend,
In whose sweet praise
I all my days
Could gladly spend! (Lutheran Service Book 420:1 & 7)

May Christ's richest blessing be yours in this holy season,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

March 10 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we move deeper into the season of Lent, opportunities for worship, devotion, and fellowship are increasing.  We hope this handy summary (including highlighted new events) will be helpful as you look ahead!  Details will follow in upcoming bulletins and in the April newsletter.

This coming weekend:

  • SPRING FORWARD! Daylight Savings Time begins this weekend; be sure to set your clocks head one hour before you go to bed on Saturday, March 12th.

  • Worship, Sunday School and Bible Class, Sunday, March 13th.

  • LIFT (Lutherans in Fellowship Together) meeting, Sunday, March 13th after the 11 am service. Help plan upcoming fellowship and service events!


Next week:

  • Lenten Midweek Worship, Wednesday, March 16th, 11:00 am and 7:00 pm.

  • NEW EVENT! Lenten Fish Fry sponsored by the Board of Elders, Wednesday, March 16th, 6:00 pm.

  • Lenten Prayer Breakfast, Saturday, March 19th, 9:30 am. Sign up at the Welcome Center or in Bible Class.

  • Worship, Sunday School and Bible Class, Sunday, March 20th.


During the rest of March:

  • NEW EVENT! Door offering for Ukraine (through Lutheran World Relief), Sunday, March 27th.

  • NEW EVENT! Recognition of our retiring office manager, Sandy Goodlander, Sunday, March 27th, between services.

  • RESCHEDULED EVENT! Preschool Sunday, March 27th at 11:00 am. Our preschool children will be our choir for this service.


Looking forward to April:

  • Lutheran Women's Missionary League Spring Rally, Saturday, April 9th, 9:30 am at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockford.

  • Making Palm Crosses, Saturday, April 9th, 1:30 pm.

  • Holy Thursday service, April 14th, 7 pm.

  • Good Friday services, April 15th, 11 am and 7 pm. (Please note the time change from previous years for the daytime service.)

  • Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, April 16th. Volunteer sign-ups are now available!

  • Easter Sunday services, April 17th, 7:30 and 10:30 am. (Please note the time change.)


A reminder that, during Lent, each Sunday's 11 am service and each midweek 7 pm service will be livestreamed at:

For more information, you can always view the current newsletter and weekly announcements at www.messiahgr.org/news.

Blessings to you as we continue the Lenten journey with our Lord toward the cross and the empty tomb!

Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

February 23 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Below is the latest on our

  • March Newsletter and Upcoming Events

  • Worship Schedule (including midweek Lenten services)

  • Weekday Classes

  • Looking Ahead


MARCH NEWSLETTER AND UPCOMING EVENTS
Our March newsletter is now available online!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact Sandy Goodlander in the church office to make arrangements.

  • We continue to post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news.

Look for details on these items and more in the March newsletter:

  • Our Lenten midweek services and spring LifeLight studies (see below)

  • Our next LIFT (Lutherans in Fellowship Together) Committee meeting on Sunday, March 13th after the 11:00 am service.

  • The return of our Lenten Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, March 19th at 9:30 am.


WORSHIP SCHEDULE
Sunday worship and education continue as follows:

Our Lenten midweek services returnWednesday, March 2nd (Ash Wednesday) through Wednesday, April 6th. Services will be held at 11 am and 7 pm; the 7 pm service will also be livestreamed as above. This year's Lenten midweek services will focus on the six chief parts of the Christian faith as explained in Martin Luther’s Small Catechism, along with Jesus' Upper Room discourse in John 13-17.


WEEKDAY CLASSES
Our women's CARES group is in recess until this fall; our other weekday education offerings continue during March! You can find more information and samples atwww.messiahgr.org/education.

  • Catechism for all ages, Mondays at 6:00 pm in the sanctuary.

  • Lifelight: 2 Corinthians, beginning Tuesday, March 1st at 10:30 am. Contact Shirley Hoese for further details.

  • Lifelight: Judges, beginning Tuesday, March 8th at 6:00 pm. Contact Dan Bohlinger for further details.


LOOKING AHEAD
From ancient times the season of Lent has been kept as a time of special devotion, self-denial, and humble repentance, born of a faithful heart that dwells confidently on God’s Word and draws from it life and hope. Let us pray that our dear Father in heaven, for the sake of His beloved Son Jesus Christ, and in the power of His Holy Spirit, might richly bless this Lententide for us, so that we may come to Easter with glad hearts, and keep the feast in sincerity and truth!

God's blessings to you,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Elaine Jingles, 1935-2022

Our sister in Christ Elaine Jingles was called home to be with our Lord on February 12, 2022, at the age of 86. Elaine has been a member of Messiah since 1992.

We mourn with Elaine's family (including her son Jeff, her daughter Laurie, her 14 grandchildren and her 23 great-grandchildren), but we also rejoice that Elaine is free from her earthly sufferings, and is now in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ, awaiting the resurrection of the body on the last day.

Elaine's funeral service will be held at Messiah this Friday, February 18 at 11 am; there will be visitation an hour before the service at 10 am, and a luncheon will follow. Visitation will also be held at Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield Avenue NE in Grand Rapids, this Thursday, February 17 from 4 to 7 pm. Click here for Elaine's complete obituary.

Please keep all of Elaine's family and friends in your prayers in the coming days; feel free to use the prayer below as a model.

O God of grace and mercy, we give thanks for Your loving-kindness shown to Elaine and to all Your servants who, having finished their course in faith, now rest from their labors. Give to Elaine'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 Elaine 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.

December 7 - Important Update!

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Due to the recent rise in cases of COVID-19, Messiah's Parish Services Guild has decided to cancel the following events scheduled for the coming days:

  • The Advent Supper scheduled for tomorrow night, Wednesday, December 8th at 6 pm. Worship services will be held at 11 am and 7 pm on December 8th.

  • The Guild Christmas Party, scheduled for this Thursday, December 9th at 1 pm.

  • The Social Hour scheduled to follow the Christmas Reflections service on Wednesday, December 15th. Worship services will be held at 11 am (Matins) and 7 pm (Christmas Reflections) that day.

In addition, the CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ) group will not meet tomorrow, Wednesday, December 8th, and will be in recess until January.  Further details on when CARES will resume will follow.

Please continue to pray for those ill with COVID-19, both members of Messiah's fellowship and others throughout our city, state, nation and our world.  Also, please pray that the Lord will strengthen us through His Word and Sacrament, guide all of us and grant us His wisdom to meet the ongoing challenges of these times.
 


Yours in Christ,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

November 30 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Below is the latest on our

  • December Newsletter and Upcoming Events

  • Advent & Christmas Schedule

  • Weekday Classes

  • Looking Ahead


DECEMBER NEWSLETTER AND UPCOMING EVENTS
Our December newsletter is now available online!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact Sandy Goodlander in the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also continue to post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news.

Look for details on these items and more in the December newsletter:

  • Our special Advent and Christmas services (see below for the complete schedule)

  • Christmas poinsettia sign-ups and Holiday Basket donations are due by this coming Sunday, December 5th.

  • Advent Prayer Breakfast: Saturday, December 18th, 8:30 am.

  • Christmas Bake Sale: Sunday, December 19th. Contact Barb Brinkman for details.


ADVENT & CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE
Sunday worship and education continue on December 5th as follows:

  • The Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am. The 11 am service will be livestreamed at:

  • Sunday School at 9:45 am. Adults and children have a joint opening in the fellowship hall, then students have their lesson in the south downstairs classroom.

  • Bible Class led by Pastor Twietmeyer in the fellowship hall at 9:45 am.


Advent Midweek services begin this week and continue as follows (evening services will also be livestreamed):

  • Wednesday, December 1st at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm

    • (Spaghetti supper at 6:00 pm)

  • Wednesday, December 8th at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm

    • (Advent supper at 6:00 pm)

  • Wednesday, December 15th at 11:00 am

    • (Christmas Reflections service at 7:00 pm; cookies following the service)

And our schedule of special Christmas services is as follows:

  • Preschool Christmas Program: Thursday, December 9th, 6:30 pm

  • Christmas Reflections (Lessons and Carols): Wednesday, December 15th, 7:00 pm

  • Christmas Eve Communion Service*: Friday, December 24th, 3:00 pm

  • Christmas Eve Family Candlelight Service: Friday, December 24th, 7:00 pm

  • Christmas Day Communion Service: Saturday, December 25th, 10:00 am

  • New Year’s Day Communion Service: Saturday, January 1st, 10:00 am

*- Please note that the Christmas Eve Communion Service has been moved from 11:00 pm to3:00 pm on Friday, December 24th.


WEEKDAY CLASSES
Our weekday education offerings continue as follows during December.

  • Catechism for all ages, Mondays at 6:00 pm through December 22nd in the sanctuary.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ): A Martyr's Faith in a Faithless World, Wednesday December 1st & December 8th at 9:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.


LOOKING AHEAD
From Pastor Twietmeyer's December newsletter message:

"Dear Christians, behold, your King is coming to you. He is righteous and comes bearing salvation for the whole world. By devotion to prayer and the Word we prepare a royal highway for Him in our hearts. Of course, Jesus comes to us already, in the Lord’s Supper. So it is that prayer and devotion to the Word is the best way to prepare our hearts to receive Him rightly at the altar as well. In this way, Jesus comes to us in Word and Sacrament and brings light to our dark world. He guides our path through the darkness and enlightens our hearts. With this in mind we look forward to the second Advent of our King, the return of our Lord Jesus on the Last day."

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

November 12 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Here are our latest updates on:

  • Upcoming Events

  • Sunday Schedule

  • Weekday Classes


UPCOMING EVENTS
A reminder that our November newsletter is now available online; click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  It includes more details about these events:

  • Updated phone directories are now ready -- if you haven't done so yet, pick yours up from your church mailbox. Please contact Sandy Goodlander if you need an extra copy.

  • Annual Voters' Meeting, Sunday, November 21st, after the 11 am service.

  • Thanksgiving Eve Communion Service, Wednesday, November 24th, 7 pm.

  • Advent begins on Sunday, November 28th! Advent Midweek Services will be held on

    • Wednesday, December 1st at 11 am & 7 pm

    • Wednesday, December 8th at 11 am & 7 pm

    • Wednesday, December 15th at 11 am

    • Our annual service of Lessons and Carols, Christmas Reflections, will be held Wednesday, December 15th at 7 pm.

Details about our Christmas service schedule are also available in the November newsletter!


SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Our fall schedule continues on Sunday, November 14th as follows:

  • Matins at 8:30 and 11:00 am. The 11 am service will be livestreamed at:

  • Sunday School at 9:45 am. Adults and children have a joint opening in the fellowship hall, then students have their lesson in the south downstairs classroom.

  • Bible Class led by Pastor Twietmeyer in the fellowship hall at 9:45 am. We continue exploring the Gospel of Matthew.


WEEKDAY CLASSES
Our weekly education offerings continue during November:

  • Catechism for all ages, Mondays at 6:00 pm in the sanctuary.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ): A Martyr's Faith in a Faithless World, Wednesdays at 9:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.

See more details on Sunday and weekday classes at our Education webpage!


As we move into the season of Thanksgiving (and beyond into Advent & Christmas), may our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

October 28 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Below is the latest on our

  • November Newsletter and Upcoming Events

  • Sunday Schedule

  • Weekday Classes


NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER AND UPCOMING EVENTS
Our November newsletter is now available online!  Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.  A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact Sandy Goodlander in the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also continue to post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news.

Look for details on these items and more in the November newsletter:

  • Updated phone directories are now ready -- they'll be in your church mailbox on Sunday, October 31st. Please contact Sandy Goodlander if you need an extra copy.

  • Daylight Savings Time ends Sunday, November 7th, 2:00 am. Set your clocks back one hour before going to bed on November 6!

  • Secret Prayer Pals, Sunday, November 7th, 6:00 pm. A twice-yearly event for women; contact Laura Altemann, Sharon Hula or Deb Domine for details.

  • Annual Voters' Meeting, Sunday, November 21st, after the 11 am service.

  • Thanksgiving Eve Communion Service, Wednesday, November 24th, 7:00 pm.

  • Advent begins on Sunday, November 28th.


SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Our fall schedule continues on Sunday, October 31st as follows:

  • The Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am. The 11 am service will be livestreamed at:

  • Sunday School at 9:45 am. Adults and children have a joint opening in the fellowship hall, then students have their lesson in the south downstairs classroom.

  • Bible Class led by Pastor Twietmeyer in the fellowship hall at 9:45 am.


WEEKDAY CLASSES
Our weekly education offerings continue during November:

  • Catechism for all ages, Mondays at 6:00 pm in the sanctuary.

  • Lifelight: 1 Corinthians, Tuesdays at 10:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ): A Martyr's Faith in a Faithless World, Wednesdays at 9:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.

  • Lifelight: The Minor Prophets, Wednesdays at 6:00 pm in the north upstairs classroom.

See more details on Sunday and weekday classes at our Education webpage!


LOOKING AHEAD
Following the celebration of Reformation Day on October 31st and All Saints Sunday on November 7th, our Gospel readings for the final Sundays of this church year focus on Jesus’ prophecies of the end times, calling us to be ready and stand firm amidst the often-frightening signs of His return. What is our comfort as we are propelled toward the Day of Judgment -- a day of persecution, war, famine, earthquakes and more? In the midst of any hardships, God promises that He will feed our faith through His Word and Sacraments, that we may endure to the end and be saved. (Mark 13:1-13) Grant this, dear Lord Jesus, to us all!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

September 30 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Below is the latest on our

  • Sunday Schedule

  • Weekday Classes

  • October Newsletter and Upcoming Events


SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Our fall schedule continues on Sunday, October 3rd as follows:

  • The Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am. The 11 am service will be livestreamed at:

  • Sunday School at 9:45 am. Adults and children have a joint opening in the fellowship hall, then students have their lesson in the south downstairs classroom.

  • Bible Class led by Pastor Twietmeyer in the fellowship hall at 9:45 am.


WEEKDAY CLASSES
Our weekly education offerings continue:

  • Catechism for all ages, Mondays at 6:00 pm in the sanctuary.

  • Lifelight: 1 Corinthians, Tuesdays at 10:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ): A Martyr's Faith in a Faithless World, Wednesdays at 9:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.

  • Lifelight: The Minor Prophets, Wednesdays at 6:00 pm in the north upstairs classroom.

See more details on Sunday and weekday classes at our Education webpage!


OCTOBER NEWSLETTER AND UPCOMING EVENTS
Our October newsletter is now available online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact Sandy Goodlander in the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also continue to post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news.

Look for details on these upcoming events and more in the October newsletter:

  • LWML Rapid Waters Zone Fall Rally at Messiah, Saturday, October 23rd, 9 am to 1 pm. Contact Linda Blain or see the Welcome Center display for details.

  • New Member Welcome, Sunday, October 24th. Welcome potluck sponsored by the Board of Outreach after the 11 am service; sign-up sheets for potluck dishes out now!

  • Trunk or Treat, Thursday, October 28th, 6:00 to 7:30 pm. Sponsored by the Board of Outreach; sign-up and donation sheets out now!


LOOKING AHEAD
In the Gospel readings for the next two Sundays, we see Jesus continuing to teach his disciples -- not about abstract, "out there" concepts, but about the concrete realities of life: marriage, children, family, possessions, God's will and God's mercy. Only in Christ is there perseverance, restoration, forgiveness, and the Holy Spirit's power for our daily vocations. Knowing our need for Him, may we hold His Word sacred, gladly hearing and learning it in the weeks to come!

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

September 15 Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

An update on:

  • Sunday Schedule

  • Weekday Classes

  • Upcoming Events


SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Our fall schedule continues on Sunday, September 19th as follows:

  • The Divine Service at 8:30 and 11:00 am. The 11 am service will be livestreamed at:

  • Sunday School begins this Sunday at 9:45 am! Adults and children will have a joint opening in the fellowship hall, then students will have their lesson in the south downstairs classroom. Thanks to those who have volunteered to serve!

  • Bible Class led by Pastor Twietmeyer in the fellowship hall; joint opening with Sunday School at 9:45 am.


WEEKDAY CLASSES
Our weekly education offerings are also underway:

  • Catechism for all ages, Mondays at 6 pm in the sanctuary.

  • Lifelight: 1 Corinthians, Tuesdays at 10:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.

  • CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters in Christ): A Martyr's Faith in a Faithless World, Wednesdays at 9:30 am in the north upstairs classroom.

  • Lifelight: The Minor Prophets, Wednesdays at 6:00 pm in the north upstairs classroom.

See more details on Sunday and weekday classes at our Education webpage!


UPCOMING EVENTS
Lots of special events coming soon, too -- watch for details in the weekly announcements and the upcoming October newsletter, except as noted below:

  • Men's Retreat, Friday-Saturday, September 24-25. Contact Pete Garchow or Dwight Anderson or see the September newsletter for details.

  • Men's Golf Outing, Saturday, September 25, 1:30 pm at the Links of Bowne Lake. Contact Dwight Anderson or see the September newsletter for details.

  • LWML Sunday, October 3rd. Mite box collection and more! Contact Linda Blain for details.

  • Harvest Dinner and Bake Sale, Sunday, October 10 after the 11 am service. Sponsored by the Parish Services Guild; tickets now available from any Guild member.

  • Bowling League begins Sunday, October 17, 3 pm at Northfield Lanes. Contact Joanne Gillette for details.

  • New Member Welcome, Sunday, October 24. Welcome potluck sponsored by the Board of Outreach after the 11 am service; sign-up sheets out soon!

  • Trunk or Treat, Thursday, October 28, 6:00 to 7:30 pm. Sponsored by the Board of Outreach; sign-up and donation sheets out soon!


LOOKING AHEAD
In the Gospel readings for the next two Sundays, we see Jesusteachinghis disciples ("learners" in the original Greek) about true servanthood and true peace. The new hymn we're introducting this coming Sunday,Hope of the World, asks Christ to teach us about and grant us these gifts as well. I hope that the text of this hymn (included below) can be your prayer and mine, imploring our loving Savior that He would enable us to follow Him more nearly day by day.

Yours in Him,


Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant


Hope of the world, Thou Christ of great compassion;
Speak to our fearful hearts by conflict rent.
Save us, Thy people, from consuming passion,
Who by our own false hopes and aims are spent.

Hope of the world, God’s gift from highest heaven,
Bringing to hungry souls the bread of life,
Still let Thy Spirit unto us be given
To heal earth’s wounds and end our bitter strife.

Hope of the world, afoot on dusty highways,
Showing to wand’ring souls the path of light,
Walk Thou beside us lest the tempting byways
Lure us away from Thee to endless night.

Hope of the world, who by Thy cross didst save us
From death and dark despair, from sin and guilt,
We render back the love Thy mercy gave us;
Take Thou our lives and use them as Thou wilt.

Hope of the world, O Christ, o’er death victorious,
Who by this sign didst conquer grief and pain,
We would be faithful to Thy Gospel glorious.
Thou art our Lord! Thou dost forever reign!

Text: © 1954, renewed 1982 The Hymn Society, admin. Hope Publishing Co. Used by permission: LSB Hymn License no. 110002549

September 1 Worship/Education/News/Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In this update:

  • Worship and Education Update

  • September Newsletter

  • Looking Forward


WORSHIP AND EDUCATION UPDATE

OnSunday, September 5th,we will hold a single service at 10:00 am;there will be no Monday night service on Labor Day. Our regular fall schedule resumes Sunday, September 12thas follows:

Children from Prekindergarten through Grade 8 are welcome and encouraged to attend Sunday School; Sunday School and Bible Class will have a joint opening, then students, teachers and helpers will head for the downstairs classroom! We’re beginning a one-year survey ofGod’s Enduring Word: students will learn how God creates a world and a kingdom through the Biblical accounts of Creation and the Fall, as well as His mercy in the lives of Noah, Abraham, Jacob and more. (If you have a heart for teaching kids about Jesus, we’d love to enable you to serve as a Sunday School teacher or helper. We’ll train you and provide you with materials and support. Contact Pastor Twietmeyer or Rick Krueger as soon as possible if you’re willing to help!)

In Bible Class we'll continue exploring the Old Testament book of1 Samuel; bring your Bible and be ready to dig in to God’s Word together! Class will also being livestreamed every Sunday morning atwww.messiahgr.org/adult-bible-class.

Our other Fall classes also begin soon:

  • Catechism for all ages will begin on Monday, September 13th at 6 pm in the sanctuary. Catechism sessions will focus on worship, prayer and the core teachings of God's Word as summarized in Martin Luther's Small Catechism. This is the path of instruction for youth and adults who wish to become confirmed members of Messiah. Contact Pastor Twietmeyer directly for more details!

  • This fall there will be two LifeLight Bible studies. The Tuesday morning class will be studying 1 Corinthians. Shirley Hoese will lead this LifeLight Bible study beginning on Tuesday, September 14th at 10:30 am (note the revised date). The Wednesday class will be studying The Minor Prophets. Dan Bohlinger will lead this LifeLight Bible study beginning on Wednesday, September 15th at 6:00 pm. LifeLight is a 9-week Bible Study open to everyone. Student guides will be available in the Welcome Center or may be picked up at the first class session. (There will be no LifeLight Bible study on Sunday mornings this fall; everyone is encouraged to attend Bible Class.)

  • The women’s Bible Study CARES (Caring, Active, Reaching, Encouraging Sisters) will be starting up again on Wednesday, September 15th at 9:30 am. Women will be reading and discussing the book “A Martyr’s Faith in a Faithless World”, by Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller.



SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER
Our September newsletter is now available online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact Sandy Goodlander in the church office to make arrangements.

  • We also continue to post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news.


LOOKING FORWARD
In the Old Testament readings and Gospels for the next two Sundays, in prophecy and fulfillment we see Jesus healing: the lame leap, the deaf hear, the mute speak and sing, the demon possessed are healed. All this comes about through God's Word, as inspired by the Holy Spirit, proclaimed by prophets, apostles and pastors -- and personified in the Father's Son, Jesus Christ! I pray that, as summer gives way to fall, all of us hear, read, mark and learn from the Word made flesh, who remains with HIs people forever in Word and Sacrament. May our bodies and souls be healed through His gracious gifts!

Yours in Him,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

June 30 Worship/News Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In this update:

  • Worship for Sunday, July 4

  • Summer Schedule Reminder

  • July Newsletter

  • Looking Forward

WORSHIP FOR SUNDAY, JULY 4
For the holiday weekend, Messiah continues our summer worship schedule with one service on Sunday, July 4th at 10 am. The service will also be livestreamed at

There will be no Adult Bible Class on July 4th, and no Monday evening service on July 5th.  The church office will be closed on Monday, July 5th.

SUMMER SCHEDULE REMINDER
Our summer worship schedule will resume the weekend of July 11, continuing through the Labor Day holiday.

  • Worship services will continue

    • On Sundays at 10:00 am; this service will also be livestreamed as above

    • On Mondays at 7:00 pm (except on Monday, September 6th, when a service will not be held).

  • Adult Bible Class (and continental breakfast) resumes on Sunday, July 11th at 9 am; We’ll continue to explore the Old Testament book of 1 Samuel, seeing how God works for the good of His people, even in troubled times for society, families and His Church. Bring your Bible and be ready to dig in to God’s Word together!

JULY NEWSLETTER
Our July newsletter is now available online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety. A reminder that:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter are available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We also continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members. If you want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact Sandy Goodlander in the church office to make arrangements.

  • We continue to post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news. We'll include a direct link to each new online newsletter and calendars in the email update sent at the end of every month.


LOOKING FORWARD
This coming Sunday, we see that our human existence is burdened by personal weaknesses & limitations. Paul confesses that he is inflicted with a thorn in the flesh. His only sufficiency is the very grace of God. (2 Corinthians 12:1-10) So also, the prophet Ezekiel is called upon by God as the “son of man,” Yet this designation emphasizes Ezekiel’s human weaknesses. (Ezekiel 2:1-5) Even the disciples embark on their missionary journey without food or possessions. In all circumstances, as God’s people we can only boast in His divine grace. (Mark 6:1-13)

Yours in Christ,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

P.S.  Now that Pastor Twietmeyer has begun his ministry among us and the state of Michigan has lifted pandemic restrictions, these email updates will "downshift," at least for the immediate future.  Looking forward, expect a regular update in the middle and at the end of each month, along with special updates as the need arises.  Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions!  Thanks, and God bless you for your ongoing faithfulness and support.s and support.

Worship/Education Update for June 20

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As I mentioned last week, following his ordination on Saturday, June 19th, Pastor Twietmeyer will begin his service as Messiah's pastor this coming Sunday, June 20th! 

First, please plan to join Pastor Twietmeyer as he leads his first Adult Bible Class at 9 am.  We'll be back in the Fellowship Hall for this class; he'll spell out what we'll be studying that morning.  Bring your Bible and be ready!  Current building use policies will continue to be in effect in the Fellowship Hall. (FYI, our technical team is working on livestreaming Adult Bible Class from the Fellowship Hall as soon as feasible.)

The Divine Service will follow at 10 am; this service will be livestreamed as usual at our YouTube channel, our website and our Facebook page.  An identical service will be held on Monday, June 21st at 7 pm. 

As mentioned last week, at their June meeting Messiah's Board of Elders voted to restore all pre-pandemic worship practices beginning this Sunday, June 20th.  This means that Messiah's special Guidelines for In-Person Worship will no longer be in force as of that date.  In addition to changes already made last month, no RSVPs are required for this weekend's services; there will be no designated seating to ensure social distancing (the narthex and choir space will continue to be available for those who wish to have distanced seating); offering plates will be passed; and the distribution of Holy Communion will return to pre-pandemic practices.  Again, please contact any member of the Board of Elders if you have questions.

In this Sunday's readings, we see how life is filled with profound ambiguity.  The Lord answers Job’s barrage of questions with more questions, asserting His divine foreknowledge about every aspect of creation. (Job 38:1-11)  In life’s storm, we struggle to understand the balance between the known & unknown, the seen & unseen, the sorrowful & the joyful, the poor & wealthy, the temporal & eternal. (2 Corinthians 6:1-13)  In all of this, Christ infuses His words “Peace!  Be still!”  Through His command, creation is tamed & hearts are stilled. (Mark 4:35-41)  As we begin a new era at Messiah, may we rejoice this weekend and always in the peace that Jesus alone gives!


Yours in Him,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Pastor Twietmeyer's Ordination: Saturday, June 19, 3 pm!

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

A quick reminder that the Ordination and Installation of Candidate Andrew Twietmeyer will take place at Messiah in a special Divine Service this Saturday, June 19th at 3 pm.  An outdoor meal will follow the service.  Pastor Twietmeyer will lead Adult Bible Class and the Divine Service on Sunday, June 20th.

Thanks to those who have already let us know of their plans to attend!  Since we expect a larger than typical attendance and will be serving a meal afterwards, we ask that you RSVP (by calling or emailing the church office [616-363-2553, office@messiahgr.org] or by completing the online form at www.messiahgr.org/ordination) by tomorrow, Wednesday, June 16th if at all possible.

Ordination of a pastor into the ministry is a sacred event, and many of Pastor Twietmeyer’s family as well as local pastors will want to be in attendance.  We also want as many of our congregation to be able to attend and participate as possible. For this special service we will modify our pandemic seating arrangements to accommodate the larger crowd we expect, while also making arrangements to accommodate those who wish to mask and socially distance.  Arrangements will be as follows:

  • The sanctuary seating will not be socially distanced and all the pews will be open.

  • There will be limited areas in the narthex and choir space with seating that will be distanced.

  • A live stream broadcast will also be shown in the fellowship hall.

  • Those unable to attend can watch the livestream online at www.messiahgr.org/ordination.

I look forward to rejoicing with you at God's goodness to our congregation and our new pastor this Saturday!

Yours in Christ,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

June 13 Worship/Education Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Our Services of Prayer and Preaching for this weekend will be held as follows:

You can help us get ready and ensure good social distancing by letting us know your plans to attend this weekend!  Please RSVP by calling or emailing the church office (616-363-2553, goodlans@messiahgr.org) or online:

As we prepare for Pastor Andrew Twietmeyer's arrival, we'll finish our study of Priesthood and Ministry this Sunday, June 13th at 9 am. Click here to find out more and watch the first session from May 23rd; click here for study materials.  We hope to livestream this study on YouTube, our website and our Facebook page as well.
 

We are very close to an official announcement regarding Pastor Twietmeyer's Ordination and Installation service at Messiah. Please continue to save the date of Saturday, June 19th; look for another email later this week with details on the service time and RSVP arrangements for the service and the meal that will follow. We anticipate that, in addition to members and friends of Messiah, neighboring pastors and members of Pastor Twietmeyer's family will also join us, so getting an idea of how many will attend is absolutely essential! For more information, click here to read Dave Ahrens' email of June 1st.

May the joy of the Lord be yours as we gather to be fed by His Word and anticipate the arrival of the undershepherd He has sent to us!

Yours in Christ,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

June 6 Worship/Education Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As our full summer schedule kicks in, our Divine Services for this weekend will be held as follows:


You can help us get ready and ensure good social distancing by letting us know your plans to attend this weekend!  Please RSVP by calling or emailing the church office (616-363-2553, goodlans@messiahgr.org) or by clicking here to sign up. 

As we prepare for Pastor Twietmeyer's arrival, we'll continue our study of Priesthood and Ministry this Sunday, June 6 at 9 am. Click here to find out more and watch the first session from May 23; click here for study materials.  We plan to livestream this study on YouTube, our website and our Facebook page as well.
 

This weekend, we'll also begin our annual practice ofPraying the Catechismin our services. Martin Luther wrote the Small Catechism in 1529, intending it not only as basic instruction in the Christian faith, but as a resource for lifelong spiritual growth! In the “Daily Prayers” section of the Small Catechism, he encourages Christians to repeat the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer every morning and evening, sing a hymn “like that of the Ten Commandments” as they go to work, and impress God’s Word on our hearts and minds every day. What better words to pray than those that God Himself gave us, that the Christian Church has taught since its beginning, and that Luther explained in such a deep, clear way? We’ll pray and confess the Catechism responsively, as well as singing hymns based on its texts, throughout the coming Sundays after Pentecost. I look forward to doing so together with you, and ask our Lord will bless us with growth in our faith as we do so!


Yours in Christ,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

May 30 Worship/News Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In this update:

  • Worship and Education for Sunday, May 30

  • June Newsletter

WORSHIP AND EDUCATION FOR SUNDAY, MAY 30
The Divine Service for Trinity Sunday, May 30th will be led by Pastor James Blain.   We begin our summer schedule by holding a single service at 10 am on May 30th, which will also be livestreamed at: 

There will be no Adult Bible Class on May 30th; Sunday School and LifeLight are in recess for the summer.

You can help us get ready and ensure good social distancing by letting us know your plans to attend this Sunday!  Please RSVP by calling or emailing the church office (616-363-2553, goodlans@messiahgr.org) or by clicking here to sign up. 

A few other reminders:

  • Beginning May 30th, we will resume the use of hymnals and fellowship pads, along with distribution of Holy Communion at the altar. Click here to see our updated Worship Guidelines; details of these changes are on page 2.

  • We'll continue our single service schedule from now through Sunday, September 5th (Labor Day weekend).

  • Adult BIble Class will resume at 9:00 am from Sunday, June 6th through Sunday, August 29th. We'll continue our study of Priesthood and Ministry on June 6th; click here to watch the first session from May 23rd and download materials!

  • Monday night services will also be held from Monday, June 7th through Monday, August 30th at 7:00 pm. (One exception: there will be no Monday night service on Monday, July 5th.)

JUNE NEWSLETTER
Our June newsletter is now available online! Click here to preview or download it in its entirety.

A final reminder that, beginning with this issue of the newsletter:

  • Paper copies of the newsletter will be available for members and guests at the Welcome Center. We will continue to mail the newsletter to homebound members.

  • We will also continue to post the newsletter and monthly calendars online at www.messiahgr.org/news. We'll include a direct link to each new online newsletter and calendars in the email update sent at the end of every month -- like we did this time!

  • If you are not currently able to attend worship (due to the pandemic or for other reasons) but want to continue receiving the newsletter, please contact Sandy Goodlander in the church office to make arrangements.


This coming Sunday, we join with believers around the world and across the ages in confessing the mystery of the Holy Trinity -- that God is Three-in-One, Father, Son and Holy Spirit -- and that we can only believe this truth through the powerful working of God in our lives through His Word. This weekend and always, let us give glory to our God because He has shown His mercy to us in Jesus Christ!

Yours in Him,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

May 23 Worship/Education/News Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In this update:

  • Worship and Education for Sunday, May 23

  • News Updates

WORSHIP AND EDUCATION FOR SUNDAY, MAY 23
The Divine Service for Sunday, May 23rd will be led by Pastor James Blain.   There will be two identical services at 8:30 and 11 am. The 11 am service will also be livestreamed at: 

You can help us get ready and ensure good social distancing by letting us know your plans to attend this Sunday!  Please RSVP by calling or emailing the church office (616-363-2553, goodlans@messiahgr.org) or by clicking here to sign up. 

A reminder that Messiah's Church Council made changes to our In-Person Worship Guidelines earlier this week, in response to new recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and the state of Michigan.  Click here to read a brief update; click here to review the newly revised Guidelines.


Our Sunday education hour continues on May 23rd at 9:45 am as follows:

  • Sunday School for children in preschool through grade 2 will be held in the downstairs classroom; this will be the final session of Sunday School before summer recess children will continue to learn how God Protects His People in Egypt and the Exodus.

  • As we prepare for Pastor Twietmeyer's arrival, we begin a new study, Priesthood and Ministry. Click here for more information; click here for study materials. We plan to livestream this study on YouTube, our website and our Facebook page as well.


NEWS UPDATES


Prayer Pals Spring Gathering
Messiah's Prayer Pals will meet on Sunday, May 23rd at 6:00 pm in our fellowship hall! Pals from 2019/2020 will be revealed, and new pals will be selected. We welcome new members for this group which focuses on praying for our Sisters in Christ. Come and enjoy the warmth of Christian love and fellowship. (We will be observing COVID guidelines. No potluck, just good ole H2O.) Contact Deb Krueger, Elaine Jingles, or Barb Brinkman to RSVP, or if you have questions.

Summer Worship/Education Preview
Our summer worship schedule begins Memorial Day weekend, with one Sunday service at 10 am on Sunday, May 30th. After a break for the holiday weekend, Adult Bible Class will resume at 9 am on Sunday, June 6th. Monday night summer services will begin on Monday, June 7th at 7 pm. At their May meeting, the Board of Elders approved revisions to our In-Person Worship Guidelines regarding worship materials and communion practices, effective on Sunday, May 30th. Click here for full details about our summer schedule and what will change in our services.


This weekend, the Day of Pentecost, 50 days after Easter Sunday, closes the church year's Time of Easter, and ushers in The Time of the Church -- when we grow in grace and faith by feeding on the Gospel accounts of Jesus' ministry and teachings. May we rejoice in the ongoing gift of the Holy Spirit, who testifies to our Savior's continuing gifts to us in His Word and Sacraments!

Yours in Christ,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

Urgent Worship Update: May 18, 2021

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

At their May 17 meeting, Messiah's Church Council reviewed the changes made last week to the Centers for Disease Control's recommendations and the State of Michigan's current epidemic order.  Based on these changes, the Council approved a revision to our In-Person Worship Guidelines, effective immediately. The relevant paragraph is printed below, with the revision indicated in bold italics: 

  • To minimize potential spread of COVID-19 in this public setting, wearing of face coverings (fabric masks) are required at all services for those who are not fully vaccinated.

    • Those who are fully vaccinated are exempt from this requirement.

    • Those who are not medically able to tolerate a face mask are exempt from this requirement. We ask those who are medically exempt to wear a face covering to and from their seat in worship. (If you are not medically able to tolerate a face mask, face shields are an acceptable alternative.)

    • If you forget a face mask or don’t have one, please don’t let this keep you from attending; we will gladly provide you with one.

Click here for the complete version of the newly revised Guidelines; please contact our congregational chairman Dave Ahrens if you have any questions.

Yours in Christ,

 

Rick Krueger, Parish Assistant

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