V O LU M E 52 . I S SU E 9 P A G E 2

Back to School, Back to Basics Let’s face it, summer can be a lot of fun. For many people, especially families with school age children, summer is a good time to break away from the usual routine and do less of those things that can become a bit tedious during the school year (getting dressed up, packing lunches, doing homework, getting to school on time, etc.). The fact that we can do without these things for a few months means that they must not be essential. But then there are other things that we must do all year round in order to survive. Things like eating, drinking, and sleeping we would consider essential no matter what time of year it is. How about Bible reading and prayer? Is this something we can do without for awhile, even for months, or is it something that is essential? While we might not keel over and die when we fail to read their Bible and pray, we do suffer. Our faith suffers, and so also does our sense of being in a personal partnership with God in our day-to-day lives. We need to hear from God and He desires to hear from us. He wants fellowship with us and we desperately need that too. King David gives expression to this in Psalm 63, and certainly gives us the impression that His relationship with God is utterly essential.

“You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek You; I thirst for You, my whole being longs for You,

In a dry and parched land where there is no water. . . . Your love is better than life. . . I will be fully

satisfied as with the richest of foods” As we begin a new school year, it is time to get back to the routine. It’s time to get back to being faithful to those things that matter most and that are essential, not merely for surviving, but for thriving in this world. With this in mind we invite you to participate in “The Essential 100 Challenge” (or “E-100" for short). E100 is an effective Bible reading program built around one hundred carefully selected short Bible passages (50 from the Old Testament and 50 from the New Testament). Since many people get bogged down with traditional through-the-Bible reading plans and give up somewhere in Leviticus, this reading plan will give us just the big picture of God's Word, a general overview that is accessible to everyone. At the same time it will serve to establish in us a daily Bible reading habit and expose us daily to the means by which God the Holy Spirit speaks to us and strengthens our faith. Just imagine the power and the positive Spiritual impact of everyone in our congregation reading the same Bible passage together every day for a hundred days! We plan to begin the week of September 9, on our Christian Education Sunday, and then continue with five readings a week through the end of January 2013. You can use your own Bible in whatever version you like, and the readings will be brief enough (1-2 chapters in length) that you will have time to read them in addition to your Portals of Prayer, or to incorporate them into whatever other devotional habit you might already have. Furthermore, these readings will be highlighted in our weekend worship services, and each of our CELL groups will be encouraged to discuss them whenever they get together. I can’t think of a better way for our congregation to start this new school year off right than to be in God’s Word together everyday, and seeking His face in prayer for His blessing upon us. Listening carefully to what God has to say in the Bible is always a good thing. You can’t help but wonder how anyone could possibly get by in life without it. It’s that important. It’s that essential.

P A G E 3 V O LU M E 52 . I S SU E 9

Did You Know?

One of the Move Forward objectives for the Board of Early Childhood and School Ministries is to better communicate information about the school ministries it oversees. Back in June a rather lengthy narrative was shared with the congregation from the Board that was meant to not only answer questions raised at various Town Hall meetings, but also to share a concise review and history of the ministry and its mission. Below are some visual aids that are designed to share some interesting information about the school that perhaps has not been widely available previously. Thank you to Board member Chris Stolsky for his work creating these visuals. For every $1 of contribution to SMLC, $0.22 goes to Family Life Center Facility Costs.

Of that, $0.18 is allocated to SMLS and $0.04 is allocated to other groups.

For the 2011-2012 budget year, SMLS and CFK covered 86% of their operational costs via tuition. SMLC

contributes the remaining 14%.

Year to year, the percentage split of single/multi-child families remains fairly similar.

St. Michael Lutheran School

Continued

T H E M I G HT Y M ES S E N G E R P A G E 4

MEAP Scores 2010-2011 Percentage of Students Passing

SMLS Comparison to Other Local School Districts

3rd Grade 5th Grade

Math Reading Math Reading Math Reading

SMLS 100 100 100 100 100 100

Portage 99 94 89 92 90 90

Kalamazoo 93 82 68 73 69 61

Mattawan 99 94 89 93 92 85

Vicksburg 98 92 87 92 91 92

Schoolcraft 98 98 85 98 93 93

Galesburg-Augusta 96 91 74 87 76 74

State Average 95 87 80 85 85 79

7th Grade

In addition to the MEAP, which is given to students in grades 3-8, St. Michael also administers the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) to 1st and 2nd graders. There are 37 other Lutheran schools in the Michigan Dis-trict that give this test to their 2nd – 8th grade students and below represents the Spring 2012 ranking of St. Michael second grade student scores in comparison to those other students in the Michigan District:

ITBS Composite ITBS Reading ITBS Core ITBS Math ITBS Language Arts

Rank #2 Rank #4 Rank #2 Rank #2 Rank #1

Our school year begins on Tuesday, September 4th with a full day of school. Please keep the outreach ministries of St. Michael Lutheran School and Christ for Kids Childcare in your prayers as we endeavor to reach our students and their families with the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Your prayers and support are much appreciated and much coveted for the coming school year. Feel free to visit and participate in our school ministry events and consider volunteering as well!

In Christ,

Greg Johnson, Principal

Overview of Adult Bible Class September 9

Sunday September 9 is the beginning of the new Sunday School year. Between services classes will be held for ages 4 to 93. There will be many offerings for adults this year, and on this first Sunday, all of the classes will be reviewed in Allan Hall. We encourage you to come (after dropping your kids off in their classes) and choose a class for yourself to study God’s Word with others.

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Lutheran Schools Tops in the Nation on “The Nation’s Report Card”

Accountability! Results—what difference does it make? We are becoming a data-driven nation in regard to our schools. Whether you agree with that direction or not, it is where we are at this moment in our nation’s history. Parents want to know if their child is receiving a quality education.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as “The Nation’s Report Card,” is the only nationally representative and continuing assessment of what America’s students know and can do in various subject areas. The report is in and the news is GREAT for Lutheran schools. In five of the eight categories Lutheran Schools finished in first place among nine other categorizations. In the other three we finished second. The groups included the following: public, other religious, nonsectarian, Catholic, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Dept. of Defense, State Department of Education, Lutheran, and Conservative Christian. Lutheran schools finished first in science in the 4th, 8th and 12th grades (grades where data was gathered). In reading Lutheran Schools finished 1st in 4th and 8th grade (data was not gathered for the 12th grade). In math we finished 2nd in 4th, 8th and 12th grades. In 4th grade science the average Lutheran student score was 166: Catholic school students scored at 162, and public—149. In 4th grade reading (2002) Lutheran—236, Catholic—234, Conservative Christian—229, and public—217. In 8th grade math other private students—298, Lutheran—296, Catholic—289, Conservative Christian—286, and public—276. Some might argue that Lutheran schools have parents who are more involved. Some might say that attending a Lutheran school is a choice. Some would say that it is not fair to compare students from different types of schools because each school type is unique. To each of these statements there is truth. Students attending Lutheran schools are blessed to have parents who are very concerned about the education their children receive. Students attending a Lutheran school do so by choice. Those who do not want to take advantage of those blessings are excused from that choice. Each school and each school type is unique. In Lutheran schools, in addition to teaching math, reading, science and all the other subjects, we have the unique privilege of sharing with students and families the most important truth of all: God has won the victory over sin and death for eternity through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. Lutheran schools are great places to grow. Lutheran schools, like any schools, are not perfect. In Lutheran schools students learn that they are forgiven and that they also can forgive others because of Jesus Christ. And yes, we do thank God students in Lutheran Schools have great test scores. Lutheran Schools have teachers, parents, administrators, boards and congregations who continue to strive for excellence in all aspects of Lutheran education, academics, the arts, sports, social development, service to others and creating 21st century learning environments that prepare our students for service. Author’s Note: This article is in no way meant to belittle public schools or other private or non-

public schools. - Janie Andrich Blog

Covenant is Participating in ArtPrize

Covenant has been accepted as a participant in ArtPrize this year. Their work, “Reaching Out for Understanding” is a multimedia collection of visual art which displays an assortment of actual hand molds of elders who are coping with Dementia. Through the use of found objects and tie-dye cloth panels as a back drop, the art evokes hopeful energy framing hands reaching for a mutual connection. Each individual artist “hand crafted” their own contribution designed to raise awareness about their ability to sustain and overcome chronic conditions while maintaining dignity, optimism, and intrinsic creativity. By utilizing dementia-specific knowledge in our design elements, the project attends to the needs of elders with cognitive challenges. Through our understanding of the importance of sensory integration, the collaborative artists have created profound pieces of narrative which communicate beyond words.

ArtPrize Dates: September 19th- October 7th, 2012 (Voting begins October 8-13) Sponsor: Grand Rapids Community College, Spectrum Theater, Downtown Grand Rapids-Fulton Street Voting: ArtPrize iPhone and Android apps—The fastest way to cast a vote for this entry is entering the five digit code, 52965. Voters must register at the event in Grand Rapids to use any method of voting.

Text Message Voting—Attendees will send a text message to 808080 with the vote code as the body of the message. These instructions, along with your unique vote code, will be printed on your official ArtPrize label that will be delivered to your venue. ArtPrize.org—Voters can log in to the ArtPrize website and cast votes directly on your Entry Profile. To find your Entry, users can search your vote code, title, or name, or on your venue’s profile page.

T H E M I G HT Y M ES S E N G E R P A G E 6

ArtPrize Competition is coming back to Grand Rapids and. . .

SUNDAY SCHOOL

DONATIONS NEEDED !!! Pencils and crayons for Sunday School. Deliver to Laura Van Orman or any Sunday School teacher.

Thank you for the prayers, concerns and cards. - Rika Noggle

LAMP 2012 Presentation

Evangelism Notes MAKING MIGHTY MESSENGERS FOR CHRIST

MISSION U Well the second LAMP tour has come and gone with all members of our SMLC missionary team home safely. The trip was another success and the Good News of our Lord and Savior was planted with the children in Lac Brochet.

The team would like to share their experiences on this trip, and are planning on giving a presentation to the congregation during both the Saturday and Sunday services on November 17th and 18th respectively. This presentation will include a slide show of photos taken during the week long event. A sampling of the photos and a quote from Dana Naumann are shown below to give you a preview of what will be included.

“This trip we became more aware of the needs of the community and especially the hopelessness that is so prevalent in the north. As we listened to a number of the adults share their stories with us it seems that everyone has a friend or family member who has attempted suicide. They are yearning for the hope in Jesus Christ.” - Dana N.

Mission U is almost here and it is not too late to register for the first class. The first class will be held on September 22 from 10am to 3pm at our SMLC fa-cility. The September Class, Equip-ping to Share, will focus on: Recognizing and embrac-

ing your role as Christ's witnesses.

Identify witnessing obsta-cles and receive biblical tools to overcome them.

Recognize and initiate faith-sharing conversa-tions.

Students will practice shar-ing their faith in unique contexts and within rela-tionship models they may likely encounter.

The October Class, Seven Styles of Faith Sharing, will be held the following month on the 27th. Then there will be a holiday break with classes re-starting in January. You can register for each individual class or all six (6). See the michigandistrict.org website for further information and details on registration. If you need assistance contact Debbie Cameron at the Michi-gan District office at 888-225-2111 ext 234. Hope to see everyone there!

DINNER AND CONCERT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH

12:45 pm Potluck Dinner in the gym (following the second service) Please bring a dish to share. Table service and beverages are furnished. 2:00 pm Concert to be held in the sanctuary “SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY” presents a concert of hit tunes from the thirties and forties. Paul Franklin on fiddle, Mike Stoline on bass (the old Heartland Band) and John Speeter (Schlitz Creek) will entertain with a program of toe-tapping songs that still find a place in our hearts. Free admission for concert. Tickets are available to invite your friends and neighbors –See poster in south

narthex.

WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP MINISTRY

T H E M I G HT Y M ES S E N G E R P A G E 8

ANNUAL SALAD SUPPER

OCTOBER 15 @ 6:30 PM, ALLAN HALL Table service, rolls and beverage furnished. Please bring a dish of your favorite salad or dessert to share. For information contact June Kucks via email at archival39@aol.com or see Arla Mayhew or Diane Goetz.

Helping Congregations Across Michigan … Just Like Yours - Investing your hard-earned dollars with the Church Extension Fund (CEF) keeps your money close to home. Of course, your personal investments earn great rates through many different saving and investment options, but your invested dollars also help fund Lutheran interests right here in Michigan – maybe even helping out in your own congregation. Can any other investment opportunity promise that? Call 800.242.3944 or visit them online at www.mi-cef.org and discover how investing with CEF can help you and yours.

- Paul R. Willis

V O LU M E 52 , I S SU E 9 PA G E 9

Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

Lutheran Women Gather for 34th Biennial Convention More than 800 men, women and children attended the opening ceremony of the 34th Biennial Lutheran Women Missionary League Michigan District convention in Dearborn, Michigan. Congratulations to our new president, Willie May Henry, the first African-American Michigan District President. The Mission goal for 2012-14 Biennium is $235,000, funded by the LWML Mites and other donations. Eleven mission grants were approved. The 2014 Michigan District Convention will be in Kalamazoo at the Radisson. So we will have the opportunity to serve and participate in a Michigan District Convention without leaving home. For details on the convention and servant opportunities, check the web site www.mi-lwml.org. Enjoy the Autumn season and serve Christ with a joyful heart. - June Kucks

Now Go! To Botswana!

That’s the command that Lutheran Bible Translator Rich Rudowske heeded as the Lord directed him and his family to Botswana in 2009. Be sure to set aside the date of October 21 to hear him tell this fascinating story of their life and work there. This will be at the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Rally at Trinity Lutheran Church, Paw Paw from 2-4:30pm.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!! “I WISH WE COULD JUST SIT DOWN AND TALK!” Have you ever said that to your spouse? Do you wish you could take your “talk” to a deeper level of listening and understanding. A Lutheran Marriage Encounter Weekend can help you to do just that. Two weekends have been scheduled in the coming months. The first is set for September 28-30 in the Kalamazoo-Portage area and the second April 19-21, 2013 in the Detroit area (Auburn Hills). Register early—a place on the Weekend cannot be guaranteed after four weeks prior to the weekend. For additional information and brochures contact Larry & Liz Grupe (586-566-1525), Brian & Donna Zelner (269-226-4703), Pete & Chris Wilkins (269-381-6324) or Heinz & Dorothy Wernecke (248-646-0726). You can also log on to www.GodLovesMarriage.org.

P A G E 1 0 T H E M I G HT Y M ES S E N G E R

DAVE RAMSEY’S FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY We at St. Michael are privileged to be one of a handful of Lutheran Churches that is Piloting the Financial Peace University through a new partnership between Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and Dave Ramsey. What is it? Financial Peace University is an educational “program that teaches you

how to beat debt, build wealth and give like never before!” Who is it for? Anyone who wants to be a good steward of God’s money and to

control your finances instead of allowing them to control you. When is it? Starting Sunday, September 16 2012, it will run for 9 consecutive

Sundays. Class time will be from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. What does it cost? $89.00 per family plus $6.00 shipping, which provides class

materials and membership. Where can I register or find out more? Contact the church office or register on line

at www.daveramsey.com.

Starts September 16

V O LU M E 52 , I S SU E 9 PA G E 11

Saturday, October 6, 2012

9:00 am (Shotgun) Co-ed Team Scramble

S t . M i c h a e l L u t h e r a n S c h o o l

“Mighty Angels” Annual Golf Outing

Karl Mueller Scholarship Open

Registration forms are available in the school or church offices. Registration Deadline is September 21, 2012. Please return registration forms to:

St. Michael Lutheran School

7211 Oakland Drive Portage, MI 49024

Sponsor a hole for $100 and receive prominent advertisement at a tee and at the luncheon.

$80 per person for 18 holes with a power cart.

4 person team scramble (men or Women) Awards lunch, and prizes Cash bar

Registration Time 8 : 0 0 A M

Opening Prayer and Directions 8 : 4 5 A M

“Shotgun” Start 9 : 0 0 A M

Luncheon 2 . 0 0 P M

Schedule

29795 Heritage Ln, Paw Paw MI

What’s Happening with St. Michael Junior & Senior Youth

A Great Way to Start the School Year Each fall since 1990 students around the country have been gathering at their school flagpoles before school hours to pray for their schools, teachers, administrators and friends. This day is known as See You At the Pole, and is on Wednesday, September 26 this fall. This years theme is AWAKEN. Most High Schools and Middle Schools in our area participate, but even if they do not students are welcome to gather at 7:00 am on the 26th for a time of prayer. Join your school on this day to ask God’s blessings on the school year.

Jr and High School Youth enjoyed evenings of summer fun. The Jr Youth went swimming and camping while the High School Youth launched water balloons at each other on a hot night.

The Board of Education is inviting everyone to participate in the E100 Bible Reading Challenge. The Challenge outlines 100 Scripture passages that can be read in 10 minutes a day over the course of 20 weeks. There are book marks and individual reading plan booklets available in the north narthex. People of all ages can participate, and we encourage families to read and discuss the readings together. We also have some group discussion guides available for any small groups or families interested in digging deeper into God’s Word.

Confirmation Class

As school starts we also start again with confirmation instruction. It is a special time of year and a special privilege as a congregation to help young men and women seek knowledge and trust in God as they prepare to affirm their baptism through confirmation. Our first Confirmation event is a cookout on Sunday, September 9 from 4-6 pm. We will have food, fun and a time to introduce the new 6th graders to Confirmation. Confirmation Class starts on Wednesday, September 12 at 5:45 pm in the Sanctuary with a parent and student meeting. Regular class starts the next Wednesday at 5:45 pm.

Sunday Morning Education Classes

Begin on September 9

Sunday School Classes For

4 Year Old Pre-School and Kindergarten First Grade through Fifth Grade

Middle School High School

Adult Education

P A G E 1 4 T H E M I G HT Y M ES S E N G E R

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS

SCOTT &KRISTIN WATKINS

IZABELLA EVE

AUGUST 11, 2012

5 LBS. 5 OUNCES

MATT & BETSY QUARDOKUS

CATHERINE GRACE

JULY 19, 2012

6LBS. 7.4 OUNCES

Thank you from Silas and the whole Toman family!

Silas Five Toman, now a baptized member of St. Michael, is already 3 months old. We can hardly believe it! His mother and father have felt the deep love and care of

this congregation in many ways, from the abundant baby shower this past spring to the meals brought to our home. We have seen sacrificial love for us as people watched our older children during Silas’ brief hospitalization. And the list goes on. To all of you who gave so generously at the baby shower and who have helped us in any way, we are very grateful. Thank you for the clothes, toys, and books that he is now enjoy-ing. Thank you for the gift cards and money with which we were able to purchase a much-needed double stroller! Thank you for your love and your prayers! As Serina and I seek to raise up our children (now including #5) in the fear and love of the Lord, we are reminded of the blessings God has provided for us in our church family – even apart from all the gifts you have given. Like Silas, we have all been baptized into the family of God, set apart as a peculiar people who love and serve one another, and as a people whose ultimate family loyalty is to our Brother, Lord, and Savior, Jesus Christ. Much Thanks! Vicar Jason Toman

V O LU M E 52 . I S SU E 9 P A G E 1 5

St. Michael Softball Wins 3rd Church League Title

The St. Michael men’s softball team completed another successful season winning the Portage City Church League Division for the 3rd time (the previous 2 were in 2007 and 2009). At 10-3, we were in a 3-way tie for the league title, but held the run differential tiebreaker over both of the other churches (Mattawan CC & Oakwood Bible). Our 3 losses were by a combined 7 runs, while our 10 wins were won by a margin of 130 runs. By winning the league title we qualified for the Portage City Tournament, but lost our first 2 games, both by 2 runs. Of course, half of the team was out of town that weekend and we had to find subs at the last second. We gave a good effort, but it’s difficult to get continuity with players you’ve never played with before.

With all that being said, St. Michael Softball has had much success over the last several years and we continue to achieve new firsts. This year’s team completed our 7th straight winning season, 6th straight tournament qualifying team, and now we have our 6th trophy to add to the case in the North Narthex. I would like to thank all of our players for another great season. Thank you to the Van Orman’s who help out with some food for our end-of-year party. Thank you to the wives, girlfriends, parents, and friends of all those involved who come to cheer us on each week. Speaking of which, please keep an eye out for the team schedule in the newsletter and in the bulletins each week as I would love to see more people come to cheer us on each week. The games are only about an hour and a half and it’s a nice time to get outside (when it’s not too hot). Congratulations St. Michael on another great season!!! God Bless, Shannon Miskovich – Men’s Coach

Nairobi Kenya Mission Trip I went as part of the Kalamazoo Christian High School Science Department Mission Trip to Nairobi, Kenya. There were 10 students and 4 chaperones. Our trip was twofold, teaching water purification and personal hygiene to a group of Christian High School Students (in Salama) and to work with a group that monitors the health and habitat for Cheetahs. We worked with the students to teach them about clean water and the need for water purification. So we paired up with the students and walked with them to where they collect their water. While on this walk I saw a 4 year old boy, carrying 2 gallons of dirty water for close to quarter of a mile. This is when I was asked how far do you walk to get your water? How do you explain to someone that my water is always clean, it is pumped through pipes into my house and the supply is never ending. They would never be able to comprehend such a concept. Many of the students walk long distances for the opportunity to go to school. They often start walking at 4 am to be at school at 6 am and then back home at night. How blessed I am to have my own car and drive myself. During the 8 days that we were working with the school there our base camp was 3 hours into the bush. Our first night in camp, Hyenas visited our camp. We heard them shuffling around. Luckily our host had told us what to expect. We had an opportunity to study with Master Students and were allowed to participate in the morning and afternoon animal counts, and the mid afternoon scouting expeditions. It is easy to ignore statistics about Africa until you are there and you meet all of these wonderful people, who live in what we would consider horrible conditions and yet, they were so happy and content. They definitely taught me more than they will ever know. It really meant a lot to know that others were praying for me. If I had an opportunity to go back to Kenya, I would in a heartbeat. It was wonderful seeing how God works in so many ways, so far from home. I would like to thank all you who prayed for me during my travels. It really meant a lot to know that others were praying for me and my family. As with all life changing journeys, I will remember this always. Thank you once again for all of your support. In Christ, Allison Snowden

P A G E 1 6 T H E M I G HT Y M ES S E N G E R

Burnie Trimner

Ethel Kocman Bud Leonard Lorene Fiebig

PORTAGE AREA & WORLDWIDE

TV MINISTRY YOU CAN TRUST!

30-Minute Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod worship service Produced by Lutherans for the homebound, hospitalized… Includes the Gospel, Epistle, and Sermon by LCMS pastors Music by choirs, soloists, and small groups

Access the Portage Charter Cable Channel 97 Mon. at 10:30 am; Wed. at 2:00 pm; Thurs. & Fri. at 8:30 am

Access the Kalamazoo Charter Cable Channel 96 Sun. at 4:00 pm; Mon. at 2:00 pm; Tues. at 3:00 pm; Wed. at 5:00 pm

Lutheran Ministries Media, Inc. 5 Martin Luther Drive ^ Fort Wayne, IN 46825-4996

“Worship for Shut-Ins” Summary Sheet

September 2, 2012 – Deuteronomy 4:7 "God Is Near" by Rev. Dr. Thomas R. Ahlersmeyer, Holy Cross Lutheran Church~Fort Wayne, IN The presence of Jesus Christ in our lives means that we can face the “Jordan River crossings” of our lives, possessing hope and taking courage in the blessed assurance that our God Is Near! September 9, 2012 – Mark 6:30-44 "Being an Intercessor" by Rev. Dr. Daniel J. Brege, St. Paul Lutheran Church~Decatur, IN Jesus is the ultimate intercessor! He interceded for the world to the Father by His life, death and resurrection, and now He intercedes at God’s right hand. His intercession especially involves forgiveness. How appropriate that we now also intercede, bringing those with needs to our Lord, looking for His help and sustenance. September 16, 2012 – Isaiah 50:6-7 “Willingly” by Rev. Dr. Walter A. Maier III, Concordia Theological Seminary~Fort Wayne, IN Jesus willingly gave Himself over to agony and death, because of His love for you. This was the joy set before Him as He entered into suffering-your salvation, your living with Him forever, made possible by His redeeming work. September 23, 2012 – Mark 9:35-37 "The Lowest Score Wins" by Rev. Richard Mau, Immanuel Lutheran Church~Des Plaines, IL Salvation is not won according to our earthly expectations, but by Christ’s submission to serve all first.

September 30, 2012 – Mark 9:38-50 "Belonging to Christ" by Rev. James L. Elsner, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church~Hudson, IN

Who is saved? Who is in the Kingdom of God? Jesus teaches us about belonging to Him – about the universal church and the communion of saints.

Effective June 14, Public access channels 19 & 20 moved to channels 96 & 97.

V O LU M E 52 . I S SU E 9 P A G E 1 7

St. Michael Needs: Golf Outing Coordinator CELL Board Director Parish Fellowship Members and

Director Greeters for all services Funeral Luncheon Coordinator

Contact Jan Jett at the church office at 327-7832.

WE LOVINGLY SERVE! THANK YOU to our SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS! Each week these servants of God review and prepare a lesson and materials for sharing with our children on Sunday morning. They lovingly teach our children about the Lord and His Son, Jesus, while maintaining order and discipline in the classroom. When necessary, they follow up on students that are infrequent attendees. If you would like to serve in this way, contact Jon Forster at the church office, 327-7832.

We received this notification on the date that we have lost one member or our team. Please keep your thoughts and prayers with his family and the team who are grieving the loss of a true warrior and patriot. He gave his life in the tenacious pursuit of the enemy and the defense of others in the hope that they too would know the liberties and freedoms we enjoy as Americans; free of fear, tyranny, and oppression. Please remember that the price of freedom is often paid by the sacrifices of men like him who are called to the life that we live knowing that our lives may be demanded of us or the ones we love to secure the freedoms of the next generation. We will soon redeploy home and have been privileged to be the beneficiaries of your gifts, love, and support. We thank you for all that you do and pray that patriots like you continue to support our warriors and vote with your hearts when you elect our leaders; leaders that strive to continue to support our God given rights and the constitutional democracy our forefathers envisioned when framing our great nation. Very respectfully, Capt. Leon Mitchell

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!! I don’t think all of you get told enough how much we appreciate you...WE DO!! SO...THANK YOU! We have been very busy here and traveling often so I apologize for not giving an update sooner. I have saved each person’s address that has sent us a package and I still plan on personally thanking you with a separate note. I appreciate all of the snacks, books, toiletries, cards, and candy you have sent us.

Some of the additional requests I have received from my co-workers are: mac and cheese, tuna, Cheese Its, small bottles of mouth wash (no more than 16 oz of liquids per box), hair ties, twizzlers, old travel mugs you don’t use, sunflower seeds. Is it Girl Scout Cookie time yet? The kids appreciated the stuff animals that you sent. I have a visit planned to give out toys and tooth brushes. Thank you all again for all of your help and support. Take care of yourselves and each other!!! - Letter received by Edna Fry

V O LU M E 52 , I S SU E 9

8/1/11-7/31/12

Church Revenue $659,150

School Revenue $674,755

Total Revenue $1,333,905

Total Expenses $1,234,813

Net Surplus (deficit) $ 99,092

Budget $1,237,316

Under/(Over) Budget $ 2,502

Avg. 2012 Attendance. . . . . . . . . . . 356

Special Offerings Since August 1, 2012:

Trust Fund $ 300

Church Worker Scholarship $ 0

LWR $ 175

Good Samaritan $ 30

Memorials $ 0

Covenant Sr. Program $ 100

Mortgage Reduction $ 1,096

Mission Forward $ 3,214

School Music $ 0

Tuition Assistance $ 600

School Improvements $ 1,965

Quilting $ 0

Sunday School $ 314

L.A.M.P. Mission Trip $ 0

P A G E 1 8

July Financials

Mission Forward Update

Total Committed: $668,614 Accumulative Receipts as of 8/26/12 Offerings: $597,407 Matching Funds: $36,839 Percent of Commitment Reached: 95% Mortgage Balance: $442,081

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Prego® Italian sauces

Swanson® stocks, broths & canned poultry

V8® vegetable juices

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V8 Fusion® beverages

V8® soups

Campbell's® tomato juice

Pepperidge Farm® breads, cookies, & frozen products

Pepperidge Farm® Goldfish® crackers

Campbell® Foodservice products

St. Michael School has collected many labels and box tops this year thanks to you. Thank you for your continued support. If you haven’t helped yet or you have more labels and box tops to give, drop them off in the South Narthex, the childcare center, or at the school office.

As far as box tops go, we have collected $1,471.50. This is almost to our goal of $1,766, so keep up the good work. We are doing great with labels for education too! We have collected 15,165 points, which is 165 points past our goal. With your points so far this year, you have help purchase walkie talkies for the school as well as other gym and art supplies.

Just a reminder, if you are turning in labels for education, I need the bar code to be whole or complete so that I can read it, and please cut the label as small as you can near the bar code. This makes packaging them so much easier. Also if you are turning in box tops, I must have ones that are NOT expired, the expiration date has to be visible, and any coupon box top certificates MUST be ORIGINALS not copies or expired. Thanks again to everyone who is earning us money and points! Dana Greenacre

P A G E 1 9 T H E M I G HT Y M ES S E N G E R

Saint Michael Lutheran Church and School 7211 Oakland Drive Portage, MI 49024-4151

(269) 327-7832 Fax: (269) 327-3148

website: www.mightymessengers.org E-mail: stmike@mightymessengers.org

Staff Members, Board of Directors, and Other Leaders *Paid Positions

Senior Pastor * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rev. Dr. Paul R. Naumann Office Hours: Tues-Fri. 9 am -12 noon E-mail Address: naumann@mightymessengers.org Director of Christian Education * . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jon Forster Office Hours: Mon.-Thurs 9 am - 12 noon E-mail: jforster@mightymessengers.org Vicar *. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jason Toman Office Hours: Wed. Noon – 4:30 pm Church Secretary * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Virgene Price, Marianne Wiersma Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5:00 pm Director of Ministry Operations * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan Jett Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am-3:00 pm School Principal/Teacher * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Johnson Saint Michael Lutheran School - Kindergarten Teachers * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brenda Heintz Saint Michael Lutheran School - First Grade Teacher * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Barbara Schubert Saint Michael Lutheran School - Second Grade Teacher * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Annie Buchanan Saint Michael Lutheran School - Third Grade Teacher * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. Kimberly Lockwood Saint Michael Lutheran School - Fourth Grade Teacher * . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lisa Lam Saint Michael Lutheran School - Fifth/Sixth Grade Teacher *. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Emily Manack Saint Michael Lutheran School - Seventh/Eighth Grade Teacher * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessica Lonc Saint Michael Lutheran School - Secretary * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sharon Robinson Christ for Kids Childcare Director * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Emily Newkirk Technology Coordinator * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christie Sidwell Sextons* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brian Chapman, Bud Hetrick Stephen Ministry Leaders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carol Conklin, Pastor & Dana Naumann, Arlan Wendzel and Virginia Hetrick Stephen Ministers . . . . . . Zoe Miller, Jenny Wedel, Lynne Wendzel, Nonie Knight, Heather Bigelow, Mike Conway, Marilyn Smith, Ailene Buchtrup, Christine Boone, Carolyn Freeman, Barbara Williams, Kelley Crawford, Mara Kudelski President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jesse Hogue Vice President/Board of Lay Ministry Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rich Conklin Sound & Lighting Technician . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant Prayer Ministry Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant Recording Secretary . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sandi Champion Financial Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brad Hunter Newsletter/Bulletin Publications * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marianne Wiersma Board of Parish Education Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Laura Van Orman Sunday School . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vacant Adult Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant Vacation Bible School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lorraine Dudash Board of Early Childhood & School Ministries Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Taylor Board of Evangelism and Missions Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dana Naumann Cradle Roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cindy Hunter Board of Parish Fellowship Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vacant Women’s Fellowship Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .June Kucks Board of Church Properties Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Howard McNees Board of CELL Group Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vacant Covenant Senior Day Program Board Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Kurlowicz Covenant Senior Day Program Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lauren Fitzmaurice Board of Stewardship Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Chilcott Volunteer Ministry Committee Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant Board of Youth & Young Adult Ministry Director . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Theresa Krieger Senior High Youth Group Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Burnett, Jerry Kuss, Emily Manack, Jon Forster Junior High Youth Group Leaders . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Burnett, Jerry Kuss, Jon Forster

7211 Oakland Drive Portage, MI 49024

St Michael Lutheran Church

Church Phone: 269-3277832 School Phone: 269-327-0512 Fax: 327-3148 stmike@mightymessengers.org

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

KALAMAZOO, MI

PERMIT NO. 5

DATED MATERIAL

Our Mission at St. Michael Lutheran Church is to make disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ by building up one another in the faith and

reaching out to others with the Gospel.

We call this “Making Mighty Messengers for Christ.”

SEPTEMBER 2012 Sept. 9—Rally Day * Learning Hour Resumes, 9:45 am Sept 16—SMLS Sunday Sept. 16—Women’s Fellowship * Potluck, 12:45 pm * Concert, 2:00 pm Sept. 21—EntreLeadership, * sanctuary, 9:15 am Sept. 22—Mission U * In the Gym, 10:00 am Sept. 23—CELL Sunday Sept. 30—St. Michael Sunday Oct. 6—Scholarship Golf Outing * Heritage Glen, 9:00 am