the messenger · confirmand joseph batten kimble & pat bewley michelle coppolino & anthony...
TRANSCRIPT
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DECEMBER 2019
THANKING GOD NOW AND ALWAYS
As we celebrate Thanksgiving and then the Christmas Season, it is a great time to be thankful to our loving God. Here are some thoughts from that favorite hymn, “Now thank we all our God.”
NOW THANK WE ALL OUR GOD – Through good times and bad times, through fun times and sad times, through rain and sunshine, God’s love is always there.
WITH HEARTS AND HANDS AND VOICES – By listening to others, to our sisters and brothers, by sharing our stories and spreading God’s love.
WHO WONDROUS THINGS HAS DONE – In the manger at Bethlehem, at the Lord’s Table in Holy Communion, salvation God brings.
IN WHOM HIS WORLD REJOICES – By singing and dancing, by serving and sharing, by laughing and crying.
WHO FROM OUR MOTHER’S ARMS – Who loves us as we are, and forgives us as His children, who marked us with His love.
HAS BLESSED US ON OUR WAY – Through thick and through thin, God’s mercy always wins. We are baptized and blessed, for God did the rest.
WITH COUNTLESS GIFTS OF LOVE – Abundant love, God’s gifts keep on coming, and we keep on living.
AND STILL IS OURS TODAY – Jesus heals us every day. It is a great time to be thankful and to worship our amazing God.
You have so much to be thankful for. Thank God for your church and for the opportunity you have to share God’s love in Jesus with so many people.
TRUSTING GOD WITH TOMORROW BUILDING CAMPAIGN
Thanks to your amazing generosity, we have now collected nearly $2,200,000 towards the building of our Life Center. The Building Committee has hired an architect to draw up some plans for us to see in our Life Center. This Life Center will provide a fellowship hall and kitchen and a place for our contemporary worship service, as well as a place for our youth ministry and community gatherings. You are making a big difference in building this Life Center to lead more people to Jesus and to heaven.
THE MESSENGER
Volume 62 Issue 12
Rev. Dr. Victor J. Kollmann
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It’s Your Best Day! It’s Your Best Day!
“Hope” has been on my mind lately.
It could be because we’re coming into the season of Advent, and the underlying theme of Advent is the hopeful anticipation of Jesus’ second coming. The gospel readings in church will reflect that. It could also be that I’m reliving my childhood, in anticipation of Christmas. As a kid, I couldn’t wait for the family Christmas tree
to be chosen, brought home, put up, and decorated – and of course be sur-rounded by presents!
“Hope springs eternal,” as they say. (I, of course, am often heard around church, saying that – but usually it corresponds with my trip in March to Ranger Spring Training!)
But, “hope” has been in my mind.
The opposite of “hope” is “fatalistic resignation.” Where people shrug their shoulders and say, “Whatever.” As if to say, that whatever are the circumstances they are facing, there is little that can influence or change them. That they are stuck with the outcomes, and they may as well “face the facts.” Whether it be the perception of the inevitability of aging, health concerns, the economy, impeachment, “wars and rumors of wars,” and so on, fatalistic resignation wins the day – and hope diminishes.
To be sure, some things in life are beyond our control – maybe many things are that way! If you’ve ever tried to change someone else, herd cats, reason with a two-year old, or talk your way out of jury duty, you know what I’m talking about. But, just because you can’t control the outcomes of things, does not mean that you should give in to the loss of hope.
St. Paul reminds us, that the Christian reality in the face of change, is different than the world’s. He says, “Therefore, we do not grieve as those who have no hope.” The experience of life for Christians probably looks the same, on the outside, as it does for everyone else. We suffer disappointment and depression. We have anxieties in life. We get letters from the IRS. But, on the inside, where faith lives…
We have hope.
It’s not a simplistic optimism; rather it’s the confidence in knowing that we are God’s beloved, brothers and sisters in Christ, and that Jesus’ merciful presence walks with us no matter what we are dealing with in the moment or in the future.
So, perhaps December can be a season of hope for you, too. I “hope” so. Have a blessed Christmas celebrating Christ’s presence!
It’s Your Best Day… Live it in Hope! Pastor Jim Otte
Pastor Jim Otte
Associate Pastor
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THE MESSENGER
New Heavens and a New Earth
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’”) For from his
fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has
ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.” (John 1:14-18)
The apostle John does an excellent job connecting the Old Testament with the New Testament in his Gospel. In the first chapter he reminds the reader of what became of the Word that was spoken in the Old Testament. Everything that was said during the time of the patriarchs and prophets has now become the living breathing Word.
God’s spoken Word is now a living breathing human being in the man of Jesus Christ. Yet, he has always been around in his divinity even before God created Adam and Eve. It can certainly be quite hard to understand this concept of the two natures of Christ. But it is still true. He is both God and Man.
He had to come in the flesh in order to be just like one of us, perfect though in every way. The law that was given to Moses had to be fulfilled properly through a man who is born without sin. This is why Jesus is so special to us during the Advent season. We are reminded once again that God does not make himself an impersonal being, but actual comes in order to be personal with us.
The Word of God is powerful, and Jesus encapsulates that power in his very essence and personhood. Thanks be to him that he came down from Heaven to be with us and do the work that he so long ago promised the patriarchs and prophets that he was going to do. Save us from our sins.
May this year’s advent and Christmas be a joy for you being reminded that our God makes himself known to us and becomes one of us. He wants a personal relationship with all of his saints. He has a kingdom that he will one day deliver to us in its entirety. Jesus gives us eternity and a great gift it will be passing from this life to eternity on the day of the resurrection.
Merry Christmas!
Your servant in Christ, Pastor Welmer
A Word From Pastor Welmer
Pastor Donald welmer
Associate Pastor
As of November 17, 2019 Church Faith Budget Given last week $ 73,888 Given year to date $ 2,298,778 Given year to date last year $ 2,036,865 Trusting God With Tomorrow Building Fund Given last week $ 17,454 Total for Campaign $ 2,172,254
In planning for the future, consider including the
church in your will.
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ELLEN THORNE
Director of Celebrations
972-398-7508
Celebrate a Delightful
KINGDOM WOMEN BIBLE STUDY 2020
Dates: Saturday, January 25th
Saturday, February 22nd
Saturday, March 28th
Saturday, April 18th
Saturday, May 16th
Saturday, June 27th
Saturday, August 25th
Saturday, September 26th
Saturday, October 24th
BOOK: Rest Assured, Cost $10 to be paid
In early 2020. If you haven’t already done so, please reserve your copy by e-mailing me at [email protected].
Praise the Lord. I will extol the Lord with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly. Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever. Psalm 111:1-3
We also welcome
Zach Hogan, Tom Quint,
and Luke, Jamie
& Jerico Schwinck.
May you all find blessing
as you GLOW for the Lord in and through
Messiah.
Hope Wheeler
Confirmand Joseph Batten Kimble & Pat Bewley Michelle Coppolino & Anthony
Aimee Idahor, Elijah Mike, Cindy & Mikayla Mattson
Line Dance Lessons will resume in 2020. Keep up with where we are going for lessons off-site through the MLC Line Dancers Club Facebook Page or e-mail me.
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ALL LADIES ARE INVITED: Monday, December 2nd, 7:00pm
Messiah’s Chapel
Readers’ Theater Presentation of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Devotions & Carols by Candlelight Cookie & Punch Reception follows.
Special Shopping with Carmen Rowan in The Lamp Gift Shop at 6:00pm.
Sign up to bring cookies and/or to attend at the Advent Table outside of
The Lamp or e-mail me, [email protected].
On the Third Thursday of each month, the Women’s Bible Study goes to the Plano Day Labor Camp to hand out water bottles and DART passes. For winter, we want to also give out socks to them. So, to combine with our new theme of rest for weary souls, we will collect socks for weary soles at the Advent by Candlelight event. Socks of all sizes, for men, women, and children are appreciated. We will also be sharing gifts with Hope’s Door Ministry for victims of domestic abuse.
ATTENTION ALL SINGLES- A new singles group is coming together. Join in on the first official event, Sunday, January 5th. The group will go to Jason’s Deli right after late service. To sign up contact Johanna Wise through e-mail: [email protected].
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News from Messiah Lambs December brings excitement and anticipation for children of all ages, but especially for
God’s children who are also anticipating Christ’s return. Messiah Lambs students are preparing for Christmas in their hearts and classrooms as they hear the Christmas story, sing favorite Christmas carols, have a birthday party for Jesus, practice for their Christmas program, make cards for others, and collect food pantry items for those who need an extra hand. It is a special time of year indeed!
Messiah Lambs will continue to collect money to purchase gift cards for members of Messiah Lutheran Church who are in need of a little extra help this Christmas. Please stop by the Lambs table outside the Gift Shop before December 15th to donate. The cards will be purchased and distributed to these families in time for Christmas. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! This year our Basket Auction raised over $4400. This money will be saved and used toward the purchase of a cover for our toddler play-ground. Registration for the 2020-2021 school year is just around the corner. Members of Messiah Lutheran Church and current Messiah Lambs families are able to register the week of February 3-7 before registration opens to the public. Information and prices will be posted in January. Contact the Lambs office now (972) 398-7560 to schedule a tour. The staff of Messiah Lambs continue to be humbled by your prayers and support. May you enjoy this blessed Christmas season with the peace and joy that comes from our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Upcoming Important Dates:
11-12: Lambs’ bake sale
18: Christmas Program
20- Jan 3: No School Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Amy Myer,
Lambs School Director
972-398-7560
THE CHRISMON TREE MINISTRY-Eunice Elser went to her heavenly home in October, and it is in memory of her that this article is shared. The Sunshine Guild began a very special program many years ago that continues to this day that some of our members may not know about. Eunice maintained 5 little Christmas trees complete with 26 gold and silver Chrismons (Christ ornaments) and made the deliveries for many years. She recruited LeAnna Markus over 20 years ago to help with repairing and replacing the ornaments as well as deliveries. In 2010, LeAnna took this task over and has faithfully carried out the duties of providing a beautiful Christmas decoration to 5 of our Shut-Ins each year. Pastor Kollmann provides LeAnna with a list each year, and then she and her husband Alan make the visit to deliver the tree. On these visits they decorate the tree with the person and talk about the ornaments and their meaning. Many times the recipient joins her in placing them on the tree. She then picks the trees up on New Year’s day. LeAnna faithfully maintains these little trees and year after year they bring joy to all who behold them. LeAnna shared a few of the many blessed memories she has experienced. Last year, she called Alma Zadow to
arrange a date and time to pick up her tree and Alma asked if she could keep the tree for a week or two after Epiphany because she was enjoying it so much. Alma went to her heavenly home this year as well. In 2015, LeAnna and Alan delivered a tree to Elizabeth Brondos (Ellen Thorne's mother) who was living in a memory care unit. Ellen told her that her mother had good and bad days and possibly would not interact with them. Ellen and Chuck were there to greet Alan and LeAnna when they arrived and introduced them to her mother, and her father, Pastor Brondos. Elizabeth showed them her scrapbook before they went back to her room to trim the tree. She enjoyed touching and looking at the Chrismons as Ellen and LeAnna put them on the tree. When they finished the tree trimming, Elizabeth joined everyone in singing Christmas carols. They were gifted with a beautiful day. Thank you LeAnna and Alan for keeping up this joy giving ministry!
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C e l e b r a t e J e s u s B i r t h
Invite all children to participate as they tell it BEST!
Amy Plenger
Director, Children’s Ministries
972-398-7524
“Little Bit More” program presented by 1st - 5th Grade
Dec. 21 ONLY Rehearsal 3:30 - 5:30 pm Sanctuary
Dec. 22 Participants dress at 9:20 am Choir Room upstairs
Dec. 22 Program begins at 9:45 am Sanctuary
Dec. 22 Costume Return and Cast Gifts Choir Room upstairs
“Little Bit of Christmas” presented by children 2 years old through Kindergarten
Dec. 7 ONLY Rehearsal 9:30 - 11:30 am Sanctuary
Dec. 8 Participants dress at 9:20 am Reception Room
Dec. 8 Program begins at 9:45 am Sanctuary
Dec. 8 Happy Birthday Jesus Cast Party MultiPurpose Room
Family Advent Series—Meet Baby Jesus Dec. 4 Meet Mary & Joseph
Dec. 11 Meet the Shepherds & Baby Jesus Dec. 18 Share the story through Caroling
Wednesdays at 6:00pm in the Chapel Families may serve as readers, ushers, acolytes or praise team leaders. Caroling to the Evergreen Community down the road. 600 Independence Parkway
Mark your 2020 Calendars - January 12th Footprints of Faith
Remembering Baptism and Celebrating Sunday School for Three year olds Family breakfast with baptism ShowNTell Living Water of Baptism class for parents; Tell me about my baptism for children
Family recognition and presentation of baptismal candle during 11:00 worship
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Elizabeth Ledford
DCE for Youth Ministries
972-398-7509
Youth Ministry News!
MYM Schedule and Themes
December 1 – Renaissance Night
January 5 – Pajama Night
February 2 – Super Bowl Parties!
March 1 – Kids Against Hunger
April 5 – Harry Potter Night
May 3 – Disney Night
July 5 – Talent Show and Spiritual Gifts Night
August 2 – Eighties Night
December Events 1st-MYM
16th– Christmas Parties (all grades) 17th– College Welcome Home Dinner
(college students) 4th and 11th - MESH and JAM Students are also encouraged to attend the
Christmas programs during the Sunday School hour on December 8 and 22!
Random Acts of Kindness
November 6
Dining Out MESH
October 30
MYM Sports Night November 3
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Dorothy Sherrod
Minister of Music
972-398-7507 [email protected]
Let the World Sing Gloria!
Songs from our Hearts All of our choirs, as well as our Sunday School students, are preparing special music and drama in celebration of the Advent of our Lord, enriching our worship services. Take note of the special worship opportunities listed below. Holy Communion is celebrated in each Sunday service.
Sunday, December 1– The First Sunday of Advent
Wednesday, December 5–Family Advent Service 6pm (Chapel) & Advent Service 7pm (Sanctuary)
Sunday, December 8– Second Sunday of Advent- During the Sunday School/Bible Class hour in the Sanctuary, Messiah’s children ages 2-5 will present “A Little Bit of Christmas,” a 25 minute re-enactment of the Christmas story, with interspersed carols sung by the congregation. This drama is always a delight! All children who attend the one rehearsal on Saturday, December 7 will be
included in this special presentation. See Amy Plenger’s article for more information. Wednesday, December 11– Family Advent Service 6pm (Chapel) & Advent Service 7pm (Sanctuary)
Sunday, December 15– Third Sunday of Advent-”The Thill of Hope” Christmas Cantata will be included in both worship services. This year’s presentation will include the Sanctuary Choir, Orchestra, Youth4Truth, Choristers and Cherubs, Production and Drama teams. All are encouraged to come and experience this unique cantata, at either the 8:30 or 11:00am service. Invite someone to attend with you. It is our prayer that it be a blessing.
Wednesday, December 18-Family Advent Service 6pm (Chapel) & Advent Service 7pm Sanctuary)
Sunday, December 22– Fourth Sunday of Advent 8:30/11:00 –Special service music will be presented by the Joyful Ringers and Youth4Truth. We will remember the beautiful Christmas story through the Nine Lessons and Carols. During the Sunday School/Bible Class hour, “A Little Bit Bigger Christmas” will be presented by our Sunday School students in grades 1-5. More details are in Amy Plenger’s article.
Tuesday, December 24th-There will be celebrations at 3:00 pm-”KIDSmas”, 5:00 pm-”Family Nativity” and 7:00 pm-”Traditional Candlelight”.These services will include favorite carols and candles, as we welcome our newborn King!
Wednesday, December 25-Christmas Day Service at 10:00 a.m.-Sanctuary-Happy Birthday, Jesus!
Sunday, December 29-8:30am/11:00am-First Sunday after Christmas-At the end of each service, there will be an opportunity to receive a family blessing.
Tuesday, December 31-7:00 p.m.-New Year’s Eve Service We look forward to 2020 with prayer and praise!
Sunday, January 5, 2020! First Sunday of the New Year/Epiphany-8:30/11:00 a.m. - We will be visited by our own Wise Men.
“Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.”
~Martin Luther
In Our Music, God is Glorified
Dorothy Sherrod
Minister of Music
972-398-7507 [email protected]
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Thank you for supporting our Thanksgiving/Fall Harvest Service Project!
I would like to thank Messiah Lambs, who made the Thanksgiving cards for the Thanksgiving/Harvest Boxes and Good Sam Bags that were delivered to Meals on Wheels clients for this Thanksgiving. I also want to thank each of you for your wonderful generosity that will enable us to help over 125 families and seniors.
Thank You! It truly is a joy to see the clients residing in the Plano Community Home on Ave L. Darin and I having been delivering the boxes together for the last couple of years and we have come to know the residents we deliver to every year.
I was again blessed this year to see my friend “Herby” and know she is doing well. She turned 95 this year! I can’t wait to deliver the Christmas gifts in a few weeks! I always leave “Herby” with a grateful heart and a smile. I have much to be thankful for.
Another resident on our route is Arlo, who is a veteran and use to work with Meals on Wheels. Darin recognized Arlo as we were going down the hall to deliver some of the boxes on the first floor. As Darin greeted him, he recognized us and talked a few moments before heading up to his apartment for us to deliver his box. He too has some stories and as a veteran he always has a grateful outlook.
Elisa is always a cheerful woman to visit. When we first met, I noticed her very blue and silver Dallas Cowboy Christmas decorations. She even had a blue tree with Dallas Cowboy ornaments. Being a Steelers fan myself, we had a fun joking with one another. Darin though is a Dallas Cowboy fan and he was more than happy to side with her. We always leave her with a smile!
I truly want to thank you for supporting our Thanksgiving/Fall Harvest and Christmas service project for the Collin County Meals on Wheels program. It’s always a special time for Darin and I to deliver the boxes to the residents of Plano Community Homes.
Messiah Serves: Social Ministries and Outreach
Touching Lives Through Christ
Dawn Johnson – 972-948-8966 – [email protected]
The mission of our Outreach Ministries is to be Jesus’ hands to our church, city, national, and international community. We do this through weekly opportunities for hands-on service such as those listed below and also through contributions to
community charities such as Network of Community Ministries and the Assistance Center of Collin Country, wonderful organizations who are equipped to deal with the long-term needs of struggling individuals.
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Secret Santa & Angel Tree Christmas Projects
During the upcoming weeks in December Messiah will take part in The Network of Community Ministries, Inc Christmas Program and Collin County Meals on Wheels Secret Santa program.
Network’s red and green angels are on our Social Ministries and Outreach tree in the collection area just outside the family room. This year the angels are labeled for a boy or girl within a certain age range – no toy suggested. Please drop off the toys unwrapped, so parents can see what toys they would like to choose. All red and green angel gifts are due by Sunday, December 15th. I will be dropping off the donations to the Network the following day on Monday morning. Please consider picking up a Secret Santa tag for the Collin County Meals on Wheels residents who are recipients of our Thanksgiving boxes also hanging on our Social Ministries and Outreach Christmas tree. The Thanksgiving boxes and Secret Santa gifts are the two very special programs that we participate in every year that are truly blessings to the local residents of Plano Community Homes on Ave L., who receive them.
Gifts bought for our precious seniors can be gift wrapped! No worries if you’re not into wrapping, gift bags work just as great. I can also wrap any gifts needed before delivering them. If you choose a Secret Santa tag for a Meals on Wheels program please drop off the gifts no later than Sunday, 15th, so that I may deliver them personally the following day on Monday morning! WREATHS FOR THE DALLAS-FORT WORTH NATIONAL CEMETERY
Held at: DFW National Cemetery - 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway- Dallas, TX 75211
On Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 11:00AM, Wreaths Across America will be at Dallas - Fort Worth National Cemetery to Remember and Honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud. Please help our location lay wreaths at as many graves as possible by clicking the red "Sponsor" button. If you would like to participate in the wreath laying ceremony, please attend the ceremony. Everyone who attends the ceremony will be allowed to lay wreaths. If you would like to learn about other ways to help, please click the “Volunteer” button. Don't forget to click the "Invite" button to invite your friends and family to join us. If you would like more information or have questions please email me at [email protected]
To My Messiah Family, I would like to express a special thank you for your support and generosity throughout this past year. I’ve enjoyed serving the Lord with you and sharing God’s light with others. I am truly blessed to serve as your Social Ministry and Outreach Coordinator. I look forward to supporting many more wonderful ministries and service projects in the upcoming year. I also want to express my appreciation to our pastors and church staff for their commitment to Messiah. I would like to invite my Messiah family to join me in praying for our pastors and church staff this Christmas Season. Give thanks for our pastors for answering the call to preach, and our church staff for answering the call to use their skills and knowledge to the glory of God. Pray for their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Blessings for their families and close friends; preserve their time together and meet their needs.
Merry Christmas! If you would like more information about our Social
Ministries & Outreach programs or Lutherans for Life and the opportunities, we have to Share God’s Light,
I can be reached at (972) 948-8966, or [email protected] .
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COMFORT DOG MINISTRY
SOUTHWEST REGION GATHERING-The LCC K-9 Southwest Region gathering was hosted by Our Redeemer Lutheran; home of Team Elijah in Wichita Falls. Attending from Team Triton were Mary Jo Cuny, Marti Matz, Amy Plenger, and Katherine Wolfe. Two of the LCC trainers were there to enhance the handler’s training skills. This included various demonstrations and role playing. These gatherings are beneficial in helping with further effectiveness with our interactions on future visits. These training opportunities are also a good way for our teams to bond and learn from each other and share best practices.
GRIEF SHARING SEMINAR-The Comfort Dog ministry at Messiah Lutheran falls under the umbrella of the Messiah Touch Ministry. Each year before Thanksgiving for the last 10 years, this ministry has hosted a grief sharing seminar designed to encourage those who have suffered a loss in the last year and provide helpful tips on surviving the holidays as well as an opportunity to share with others their personal experiences with grief. This was Triton’s 2nd year to attend and as always he was a bright source of comfort and joy!
THANKSGIVING-At the writing of this article, there are plans to take Triton out in the community to encourage those who either have to work or are alone during the holiday. It’s a good way to show our awareness of other’s needs and allow the love of Jesus to shine through us.
ADVENT-As we prepare for the Advent season, it’s the goal of Team Triton to find new ways to minister to those in our community and to share the wonderful news of the saving grace of Jesus Christ! Our church has so many wonderful projects that help those who are struggling financially, emotionally, and spiritually.
LOOKING TO THE NEW YEAR AND REFLECTING ON 2019-We are thankful for the support of our congregation as we reflect back on 2019, and head in to 2020. We are excited about the many new opportunities, as well as the relationships we have formed with various groups and individuals in the community.
Visit to the Landing
Good Samaritans of Garland Santa Fe School shooting 1 year Remembrance Event
El Paso deployment
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Zumba takes the work out of workout, by mixing low and high-intensity moves for a calorie-burning dance fitness party. Once the rhythms take over, you'll see why
Zumba Fitness classes are called exercise in disguise.
Where: MLC Gym
When: Thurs 7pm
Cost: $5
TOBY MEEKS
Sports/Arts Ministries
ministries
972-398-7523
Open Gym! Thursdays 7:00pm-8:00pm
There is no fee to attend an Open Gym Night. Childcare available upon request.
CAMP GLADIATOR
SHOW UP AND JUMP IN! Tu, Th — 6:00am, 7:15am
Camp Gladiator offers a variety of pricing options. Come try it out for free for a few days. We have lockers and showers here in the gym
if you need to rush off to work.
CG Trainer—Elliey Shirley
CG Ambassador—Marissa Williams
SIDELINES is a time for college students to come and blow off steam before the week starts up.
Basketball starts at 7. All college age students are welcome.
Where: MLC Gym
When: Sunday Nights 7pm-9pm
Cost: FREE
Messiah’s is proud to offer this ministry for cancer survivors and their families.
Whether you are going through treatment, just finished treatment, or are in remission WELLNESS WEDNESDAYS can help you get
stronger! Caretakers are encouraged to come get strong too.
Where: MLC Gym
When: Wednesdays 12:30pm-1:30pm
Cost: FREE
Ditch the Workout,
Join the Party
Planning has begun for the 2019-20 UPWARD Basketball season. Our anticipated growth leads us to expect about 140 kids and 18 teams this season. If you have ever thought about volunteering with this ministry, NOW IS THE TIME! We need you to be a greeter or a coach or a devotion leader or whatever God is asking of you.
Upward Director Carl Huett—[email protected]
We are excited to offer our UPWARD BASKETBALL league for a 6th consecutive season. Upward at MLC focuses on providing a fun environment for young athletes while developing them Mentally, Athletically, Spiritually and Socially. Sign up your K5 – 8th grader today! Register at messiahlutheran.com/upward-sports/
Gift Card Promotion All new players and the player who
recommended them will receive a
$10 Gift Card of their choice!
Barnes & Noble, Bath & Body Works, Burger King, Carl's Jr., Chipotle, Chuck E Cheese, Cold Stone Creamery, Cracker Barrel, Dairy Queen, Denny's, Domino's Pizza, Dunkin Donuts, Einstein's Bagels, Jack in the Box, Panera, Papa John's Pizza, Starbuck's, Steak N' Shake, Subway, Wendy's and more!
Sports and Arts Ministries Blessed are the peacemakers...for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9
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THE MESSENGER
Moses Muniz 12/01
Cadyn Reyes 12/01
Kristi Unger 12/01
Michael Tyler 12/01
Tracy Prior 12/01
Tony Albanese 12/02
Bill Moyer 12/02
Reagan Moore 12/02
Jay Lowry 12/02 Linda Moore 12/02 Tiffany Schuster 12/02
Daniel Thornburg 12/02
Greyson Trimpe 12/02
Dan Watson 12/03` Jim Sharkey 12/03
Avery Looney 12/03
Mike Luce 12/03 Nancy Kelly 12/03 Stacey Mahaffey 12/03 Kathryn Harris 12/03 Meredith Livingston 12/03
Steven Slagel 12/03
Jordan Hoffman 12/04 Aaron Lee 12/04
Molly McCullough 12/04
Melinda Shadday 12/04
Mike Beber 12/05
Missy Keown 12/05
Carolyn Hayes 12/05
Michael Robbins 12/05
Ron Harwick 12/06
Charlie Nicholson 12/06 Gail Hollcroft 12/06
Matthew Lopez 12/06
Manu Thomas 12/06
Jessica McCullough 12/07
Caysen McCullough 12/07
Michael Neumann 12/07
Kadin Ruble 12/07 Kaitlyn Stephens 12/07 Stephen Schwartz 12/07
Claire Troy 12/07
Sharon Stuart 12/08 Graham Godwin 12/08
Shirley Crittenden 12/08
Karl Claussner 12/08
Wyatt George 12/08
Natalie Warneke 12/08
Emma Jameson 12/08
Pepe Huse 12/08
Cindy Mattson 12/08 Scott Beetley 12/09 Karin Dunn 12/09
Josh McBride 12/09
Danielle Kler 12/09
Robert Linenweber 12/09
Carol Avellanet 12/09
Alex Bruning 12/09
Lana Hoepner 12/09
Cathy McDaniel 12/09
Patty Luecke 12/10
Greg Stone 12/10
Katie Graham 12/10 Brian Butler 12/11
Allen Butler 12/11
Jennifer Chappelle 12/11
Cheryl Kirschenmann 12/11 Janet Stauch 12/11 John Brownlee 12/11 Ken Lynn Trimpe 12/11
Mack Paradowski 12/11
Alec Schubert 12/12
Kori Wright 12/12
Chloe Winkler 12/12
Leslie Bowling 12/13
Charlotte Brooker 12/13 Anita Hanson 12/13 Adrienne McGregor 12/13 Mark Hagner 12/13
Everleigh Goerz 12/13
Paisley Graham 12/13
Joshua Kuncaitis 12/13
Soksommang Muong 12/13
Catherine Schoppa 12/13
Amy Whittemore 12/13
Jennifer Schroeter 12/13
Gary Schubert 12/13
William Gullett 12/14 Karl Worthen 12/14
Amy L. Jones 12/14 Rachel Ternan 12/14
Brenda Brittain 12/15 Barbara Albert 12/15 Juels Chrisman 12/15 Sophia Ernest 12/15
Linda Rosendahl 12/15
Christopher Bouressa 12/16 Anna Boyd 12/16
Rachael Frushour 12/16 Jill Marek 12/16 Chris Crowell 12/16
Siva Kommareddy 12/16 John Lichtenegger 12/16
Kristen Puchek 12/16
Calvin Wilson 12/16
Klaus Krahl 12/16
Kevin Sommerfield 12/16
Ben Findley 12/17
Mary Wenshau 12/17
Erica Barnes 12/18
Matthew Belisle 12/18
Cindy Barnes 12/18
Roy Roloff 12/18
Deanna Weldon 12/18
Jennifer Fibranz 12/18
Darren Arterbury 12/19
Diana Hart 12/19 Victor Kollmann 12/19 Paige Lehrmann 12/19
Elizabeth Pace 12/19
Don Pence 12/19
Bruce Van Horn 12/19 Skyler Young 12/20
Sandra Mueller 12/20 Anna McGraw 12/20
Julie McCall 12/20
Rick Callaway 12/21
Alison Gilbert 12/21
Donna Moore 12/21
Nadine Smith 12/21 Dan Beyer 12/21 Georganna Sisk 12/21 Zac Calabrese 12/21
Cason Scruggs 12/21
Chris Price 12/22 Danny Trussell 12/22
Jim Harton 12/22
Carol Voss 12/22
Linda George 12/23
Brynn Scruggs 12/23
Samantha Otte 12/23 Emillie McCallan 12/23
Reagan McCall 12/23
Landry McCall 12/23
Titus Phelps 12/23
Judi Tovell 12/23
Lois Bengtson 12/24
Alaina Cavin 12/24
Kris Holben 12/24 Dominic Ruble 12/24
Margie Walther 12/24 Juliana Fredrickson 12/24
Pat Thompson 12/24 Douglas McCutcheon 12/25 Ann Beck 12/25 Kurt Claussner 12/25
Nancy Kaufman 12/25
Ross Nelson 12/25
Alexis Lehman 12/26 Shannon Napier 12/26 Marcia Mueller 12/26 Joshua Hoffman 12/26
Lance Martinez 12/26
Mike Mattson 12/26
Connor Molina 12/26
Jamie Schwinck 12/26
Jamie Stuart 12/26
Gino Tanzi 12/27 Tyler Moore 12/27
Wanda Woods 12/27
Brendan Olsen 12/28
Dianne Steele 12/28 Robin Sykora 12/28 Cheyenne Sisk 12/28
Brandon Kovach 12/28
Evan Monroe 12/28
Catherine Duchow 12/29
Rashelle Foale 12/29
James Harris 12/29 Jean Osburn 12/29 Jonathan Kollmann 12/29 Nicole Belisle 12/29 Denise Moseley 12/29
Julie Netherton 12/29
Matthew Roth 12/29
Whitney Arellano 12/30
Barbara Coen 12/30
Laura McCallan 12/30
Beverly Gatewood 12/30
Robin Patterson 12/30 Christi Tompkins 12/30
David Hoepner 12/31
Parker Looney 12/31 Gabriella Ostrom 12/31
Kelly Kuecher 12/31
Duane and Michiet Dieterich 12/03/1988
Bruce and Cindy Heller 12/05/1981
Aaron and Kelly Isackson 12/05/2009
Brandon and Laura Johnson 12/05/2009
John and Grace Ma 12/07/1983
Mark and Leah Lewis 12/08/1990 Mike and Odie Ernest 12/09/1995 Mike and Kim Cassady 12/10/2005
Tim and Barbara Looney 12/10/1971
Jimmy and Cristina Roberts 12/10/2017
Bart and Amy Scott 12/11/1999 Scott and Janet Binder 12/14/1985 Brian and Sharon Naber 12/14/2002
Ryan and Elisse Woelfel 12/16/2000
Tim and Allie Mojica 12/16/2017
Don and Ruth Hogan 12/17/1967 Tim and Kelly Wasemiller 12/17/2005
Leroy and Brenda Lovitt 12/18/1969
Charles and Elizabeth James 12/18/2010
Bill and Pam Swan 12/19/1965
Ron and Marilyn Harwick 12/19/1980 David and Rebecca West 12/19/1992
Gary and Magic Schubert 12/20/2004 Jimmy and Margie Walther 12/21/1968
Dale and Meredith Crawford 12/21/2018
David and Lana Hoepner 12/22/2017
Ronald and Sandra Ward, Sr. 12/23/1963 Delbert and Linda Pasons 12/24/1961
Ron and Debra Spears 12/26/1987 Bob and Marilyn Schwarz 12/27/1952 Herschel and Sandra Johnson 12/27/1965
Robert and Linda Moore 12/27/2003 Manu and Nisha Thomas 12/27/2010
Walter and Janet Mueller 12/28/1958
David and Kelly Rehfuss 12/28/2012 David and Sue Jablinski 12/29/1989 Steven and Karen Eichinger 12/29/2006
Victoria and Rodney Cordt 12/29/1978
Ken and Rashelle Foale 12/29/2005
Robert and Carol Brabham 12/30/1994 Douglas and Rebekah Myer 12/30/2005
James and Pam Stephens 12/30/1982
Michael and Marie Tinnin 12/31/1987
Gregory and Teresa Warren 12/31/1987
15
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1
8:30 AM-Worship Celebration
9:45 AM-Sunday School/ Adult Bible Class
11:00 AM-Worship Celebration
1:00 PM-Visitation Team
3:30 PM-JOYFUL Bible Study
4:00 PM-Grace Community Church
5:00 PM-MYM Renaissance Night 7:00 PM-Sidelines
2
7:00 PM-Boy Scouts
3
9:30 AM-Women’s Bible Class (Kollmann) 6:00 PM-Joyful Ringers
7:00 PM-Christmas Cantata
Rehearsal 7:00 PM-Sanctuary Choir
4
12:00 PM-Men’s Bible Study
6:00 PM-Family Advent Service
6:00 PM-Youth4Truth
6:30 PM-Cherubs
6:30 PM-Choristers
6:45 PM-JAM
7:00 PM-Worship Service
7:00 PM-MESH
7:30 PM-Praise Team
5
9:30 AM-Women’s Bible Study
6:00 PM-Kler/Arras Wedding Rehearsal 7:00 PM-Open Gym
6
7:00 PM-Christmas Party
for Adults (Off-Site)
7
9:30 AM-Rehearsal For “Little Bit of Christmas” 10:00 AM-High School Operation Christmas Child Warehouse
4:00 PM-Kler/Arras Wedding (Off-Site)
8
8:30 AM-Worship Celebration
9:45 AM-”Little Bit of Christmas” Program
11:00 AM-Worship Celebration 1:00 PM-Visitation Team
2:30 PM-Prime Timers-
Garland Theater 4:00 PM-Grace Community Church
7:00 Voter’s Meeting
7:00 PM-Sidelines
9
7:00 PM-Boy Scouts
10
9:30 AM-Women’s Bible Class (Kollmann) 6:00 PM-Joyful Ringers
7:00 PM-Christmas Cantata
Rehearsal 7:00 PM-Sanctuary Choir
11
12:00 PM-Men’s Bible Study
1:00 PM-Prayer Shawl Ministry
6:00 PM-Family Advent Service
6:45 PM-JAM
7:00 PM-Worship Service
7:00 PM-MESH
7:30 PM-Praise Team
12
9:30 AM-Women’s Bible Study
7:00 PM-Open Gym
13
1:00 PM-Pinochle Club
14
15
8:30 AM-Worship Celebration-Cantata
9:45 AM-Sunday School/ Adult Bible Class
11:00 AM-Worship Celebration-Cantata
1:00 PM-Visitation Team
3:30 PM-JOYFUL Bible Study
4:00 PM-Grace Community Church
5:00 PM-Jr. High and High School Christmas Parties
7:00 PM-Sidelines
16
6:00 PM-Welcome Home College Dinner 7:00 PM-Boy Scouts
17
9:30 AM-Women’s Bible Class (Kollmann) 6:00 PM-Joyful Ringers
7:00 PM-Sanctuary Choir
18
9:30 AM-Lambs Christmas Program
12:00 PM-Men’s Bible
Study
6:00 PM-Family Advent Service
7:00 PM-Worship Service
7:30 PM-Praise Team
19
7:00 PM-Open Gym
20
9:00 AM-Messenger crew
21
3:30 PM-Rehearsal for “Little Bit More”Christmas
Program
22
8:30 AM-Worship Celebration
9:45 AM-”Little Bit More” Christmas Program
11:00 AM-Worship Celebration
1:00 PM-Visitation Team
4:00 PM-Grace Community
Church
23
7:00 PM-Boy Scouts
24
Christmas Eve Services
3:00 PM
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
25
10:00 AM-
Christmas Day Service
26
7:00 PM-Faithful Investment Club
7:00 PM-Open Gym
27
1:00 PM-Pinochle Club
28
29
8:30 AM-Worship Celebration
9:45 AM-Sunday School/ Adult Bible Class
11:00 AM-Worship Celebration
1:00 PM-Visitation Team
4:00 PM-Grace Community Church
7:00 PM-Sidelines
30
7:00 PM-Boy Scouts
31
7:00 PM-New Year’s Eve Worship Service
*Please check with the church office for room location on all events.
16
The Messenger 1801 West Plano Parkway
Plano, TX 75075
972-398-7500
www.messiahlutheran.com
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
SHARING HIS LIGHT
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
PLANO, TX
PERMIT NO. 167
Weekly Worship Opportunities: Sunday-8:30 & 11:00 AM / Sunday School-9:45 AM
Wednesday, 7 PM
December Worship Opportunities Sunday, December 1– The First Sunday of Advent-
Wednesday, December 5– Family Advent Service 6pm (Chapel) & Advent Service 7:00pm
Sunday, December 8– Second Sunday of Advent- Messiah’s children ages 2-5 will present “A Little Bit of Christmas” in the Sanctuary at 9:45 AM.
Wednesday, December 11-Family Advent Service 6pm (Chapel) & Advent Service 7:00pm
Sunday, December 15- Third Sunday of Advent-Christmas Cantata~“The Thrill of Hope”
Wednesday, December 18-Family Advent Service 6pm (Chapel) & Advent Service 7:00pm
Sunday, December 22-Fourth Sunday in Advent-Holy Communion
Monday, December 24– Christmas Eve Family Services at 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. as well as the Candlelight Service at 7:00 p.m. These services will include favorite carols as we welcome our newborn King!
Tuesday, December 25-Christmas Day Service at 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary. Happy Birthday, Jesus!
Sunday, December 29-Worship Celebration
Monday, December 31-New Year’s Eve Service at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. We look forward to 2020 with prayer and praise!