Good news for Peace for May 15

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Are you okay? The storm was pretty bad in some places last night. As best I know, our people are okay. I praise God that he protected us.

Thanks mom for your service. God be with you in your work.

PS: Ascension service on May 29th at 6:30 pm https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/ascension2025

PPS: Friendship Sunday August 3rd - how are your friendships? https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/friendship2025

Student Recognition this week!

Our PreK to 5th grade students will wrap up their Sunday morning classes on Sunday May 18th. They’ll take a break for the summer and have a kids lesson with pastor each week.

On May 18th, we’ll have a recognition during service and a lunch/celebration to follow.

  • Peace will provide hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and root beer floats.

  • Someone is bringing veggies to share.

  • For fun we are …

    • Flying kites!

    • Roasting peeps!

    • And playing kickball if we want

Please encourage the students this Sunday. Hope to see you!

The resurrection of Jesus gives us a good reason to trust God. In the weeks after Easter, we’ve been practicing explaining and defending our faith with the resurrection.

We need to answer a number of questions:

Let’s gather Sunday at 9:30 to answer these questions!

Question for you: Who are you preparing to answer? What questions are they asking?

Christian Theology

Jesus is the most divisive character in history. Christians have been very careful to explain who he is and what he has done.

Join me May 17th at 9:30 for our next talk in our Christian Theology series.

What do you think about Jesus?

Congregational Forum and Voters’ Meeting

Two key events coming up:

June 8th 10:45 there will be a congregational forum.

  • All are welcome to attend

  • Pastor and council will share an update on the “Three Paths Forward” in 2025

  • Update on the financial status

  • Discussion on facility sharing

June 29th 10:45 there will be a voters’ meeting (Business meeting)


  • Vote on facility sharing

As you can see, the big question we want to discuss is facility sharing.

We mentioned back on April 11th that some people at Peace have suggested we consider sharing the facility with another group or organization. https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/20250411

The council considered this idea and weighed some options. As we did so, we ran into another local organization that was looking to share a facility - a church.

Facility sharing is different from facility use. Currently, people and organizations use Peace’s facility for lots of activities outside of Peace’s gospel ministry. A piano recital. A baby shower. A family reunion. These are occasional events connected to an individual or organization to use the facility. Facility sharing is regular use by an organization. It brings with it a whole host of questions - who will use it? When? What will the legal arrangement be? How much money is involved? Insurance? Facility maintenance? And lots more.

One organization that WELS congregations have relied on in the past is “SpaceTogether”. They equip congregations to share space. You might find some of their information useful. https://www.spacetogether.com/. If you’d like to learn more about the concept of facility sharing, you could listen to this podcast. https://churchanswers.com/podcasts/rainer-on-leadership/should-churches-share-their-campuses-with-other-non-profits/

We are looking to have the congregation address the general question: Should we share our facility with another organization?

  • We plan to publicize a statement on facility sharing for approval or rejection

  • We will release a facility sharing agreement for approval or rejection

What do you think about facility sharing? Do you think Peace could share our space with another organization?

Ladies Lunch Outing

All ladies are welcome to a summer lunch on June 11th at 1:00 at the Lynx (outside Otsego).

All ladies will receive an invite in the coming weeks.

Question: Will you please join us? Please RSVP to Jane Holewa (269-680-9060).

Calling all Gardeners

We are not planning to mow the field this summer. We’d like to save the time and gas. We’d like to see what the field might become.

We know we can’t just let the field go wild. Unproductive and destructive plants will likely grow right alongside good and productive plants.

In order to see what the field could become, we’re creating a test wildlife area between the barn and the pavilion. This small area will include various natural plants that might fill the field one day.

  • First, please don’t mow or run them over :-)

  • Second, we could use a few gardeners to help get it going. Would you help with some planting? Please get ahold of pastor/the office.

Privacy and Security at Peace - Security Cameras

At Peace, we don’t feel the need to watch and video tape what people do on campus. We want to protect your privacy.

Nevertheless, we’ve got a couple of places we’d like to watch at times. We’d like to see packages and visitors at the front doors during off hours (since we don’t staff the office) and pastor would like to be able to check on the parsonage.

The council is looking into a few security cameras.

What do you think of security cameras?

Calendar

May 16th 6:30 pm Bunco

May 17th 9:30 am Christian Theology (Jesus the Messiah)

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year Student Recognition service

May 29th 6:30 pm Ascension service

June 8th 10:45 am Congregational Update/Forum

June 11th 2:00 pm Ladies Lunch Out at Lynx

June 29th 10:45 am Voters’ meeting

August 3rd 9:30 Friendship Sunday





Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Friendship Sunday 2025

Friendship Sunday

We’re planning to connect with friends on Sunday August 3rd. We’ll have a little party together to build better relationships.

Question: How are your friendships? Time to start working on them!

Grab a neighborhood map and start praying for the people around you - both physical and relational.


Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for May 8

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Rejoice! Christ lives!

The resurrection of Jesus gives us a good reason to trust God. over the next few weeks, I want us to practice explaining and defending our faith with the resurrection.

We need to answer a number of questions:

  • Is Christianity legitimate or valid? Should we let Christianity stay around? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07ilpWCx7wk

  • Is Christianity good?

  • This week: Why does God allow so much suffering, especially if Jesus has risen fom the dead?

  • Does Christianity take all the fun out of life?

Let’s gather Sunday at 9:30 to answer these questions!

Question for you: What do you think is the biggest challenge to Christianity these days? What questions do you have a tough time answering?

PS Want some great music from kids? Enjoy the piano recital at Peace next Saturday May 10th 2:00 pm

PPS Summer outdoor services will begin June 1st. For more, see last week’s news: https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/20250501

What’s a mother to do?

Sadly, since we live in a sinful world, the mother/child relationship is tainted with sin. Children from little on throw tantrums, disobey mom, and are sometimes even disrespectful. Children lie, steal, hate, and the list goes on. Much has been written about motherhood, but you can’t buy one self­-help book that offers a solution to every problem mothers face in life. “Surely I was sinful at birth, in sin my mother conceived me.” (Psalm 51:5) So what’s a mother to do?

“I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” 2 Timothy 1:5

Here, in Paul’s second letter to Timothy, we see what one believing mother and grandmother did. We do not know much about Timothy’s mother or grandmother, other than what we are told here. Eunice and Lois were faithful believing women. They knew they were sinners, and that young Timothy also had inherited that sinful nature. They also knew the good news of Jesus, their Savior from sin. There was no reason to despair or wonder what to do. Their problem of sin had been removed through the blood of Jesus, which had taken away their sins and Timothy’s too. Timothy, Eunice, and Lois were God’s forgiven children. This mother and grandmother shared Jesus’ forgiving love, which prompted Timothy want to share it also.

We hear in his letter to Timothy that Paul wants to take Timothy with him on a missionary journey. Paul mentions Eunice, Timothy’s mother, and Lois, Timothy’s grandmother as having an influence on Timothy. And now Timothy wants to share the good news of Jesus’ love with others. We are told he got that foundation from a faithful believing mother and grandmother.

It is the privilege and joy of every Christian mother to instruct her children in the love of Jesus. Remember your Christian mother, if you were blessed with one. If you are a mother, give your children that godly foundation and pray that God will make that something great for his kingdom.

Question: Children, can we help you thank God for your mother this Sunday? Send a picture of your family so we can join you in prayer. Email church@peaceotsego.org or text 269-694-6104.

(Content taken from https://wels.net/dev-women/what-mother-do/)

Formal Wear for “Senior” Prom

Thanks for the donations so far!

Plainwell LifeCare Center is hosting a prom for its residents. They are looking for nicer attire that will fit senior adults.

They intend to clean the clothes and send them back; please be aware that there is always a risk.

If you have clothes you can lend, please consider doing so. I work with these adults regularly with Bible study, prayer, and worship. I would love to see them have a happy celebration.

Do we still have clothes we can share?

Student Recognition

Our PreK to 5th grade students will wrap up their Sunday morning classes on Sunday May 18th. They’ll take a break for the summer and have a kids lesson with pastor each week.

On May 18th, we’ll have a recognition during service and a lunch/celebration to follow.

  • Peace will provide hot dogs, hamburgers, and chips

  • Someone is bringing veggies to share.

  • Someone else is bringing root beer floats

  • Let’s play some kickball!

Will you play kickball? Good times!


Ascension

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.” Philippians 2:9

Jesus of Nazareth has ascended to rule and reign for his Father over all things for the good of his people. We may no longer see him, but he is still with us - just like we carry our spouses in us all the time.

Question: Will you join me to proclaim the Ascension of Jesus on May 29th at 6:30 pm.

Ladies Lunch Outing

All ladies are welcome to a summer lunch on June 11th at 1:00 at the Lynx (outside Otsego).

All ladies will receive an invite in the coming weeks.

Question: Will you please join us? Please RSVP to Jane Holewa (269-680-9060).

Congregational Forum and Voters’ Meeting

Two key events coming up:

June 8th 10:45 there will be a congregational forum.

  • All are welcome to attend

  • Pastor and council will share an update on the “Three Paths Forward” in 2025

  • Update on the financial status

  • Discussion on facility sharing

June 29th 10:45 there will be a voters’ meeting (Business meeting)

  • Vote on facility sharing

As you can see, the big question we want to discuss is facility sharing.

We mentioned back on April 11th that some people at Peace have suggested we consider sharing the facility with another group or organization. https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/20250411

The council considered this idea and weighed some options. As we did so, we ran into another local organization that was looking to share a facility - a church.

Facility sharing is different from facility use. Currently, people and organizations use Peace’s facility for lots of activities outside of Peace’s gospel ministry. A piano recital. A baby shower. A family reunion. These are occasional events connected to an individual or organization to use the facility. Facility sharing is regular use by an organization. It brings with it a whole host of questions - who will use it? When? What will the legal arrangement be? How much money is involved? Insurance? Facility maintenance? And lots more.

One organization that WELS congregations have relied on in the past is “SpaceTogether”. They equip congregations to share space. You might find some of their information useful. https://www.spacetogether.com/. If you’d like to learn more about the concept of facility sharing, you could listen to this podcast. https://churchanswers.com/podcasts/rainer-on-leadership/should-churches-share-their-campuses-with-other-non-profits/

We are looking to have the congregation address the general question: Should we share our facility with another organization?

  • We plan to publicize a statement on facility sharing for approval or rejection

  • We will release a facility sharing agreement for approval or rejection

What do you think about facility sharing? Do you think Peace could share our space with another organization?

Friendship Sunday

We’re planning to connect with friends on Sunday August 3rd. We’ll have a little party together to build better relationships.

Question: How are your friendships? Time to start working on them!

Grab a neighborhood map and start praying for the people around you - both physical and relational.

Calendar

May 10th 2:00 pm Piano Recital (Noah Szczembara)

May 11th 9:30 am Service (Mother’s Day) and catechism

May 15th 6:00 pm Class for those interested in Peace

May 17th 9:30 am Christian Theology (Jesus the Messiah)

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year Student Recognition service

May 29th 6:30 pm Ascension service

June 8th 10:45 am Congregational Update/Forum

June 29th 10:45 am Voters’ meeting

August 3rd 9:30 Friendship Sunday




Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

He rules - Ascension 2025

He rules - Ascension 2025

He Rules - Ascension 2025

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.” Philippians 2:9

Jesus of Nazareth has ascended to rule and reign for his Father over all things for the good of his people. We may no longer see him, but he is still with us - just like we carry our spouses in us all the time.

Question: Will you join me to proclaim the Ascension of Jesus on May 29th at 6:30 pm.


Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for May 1

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

I remain thankful for Easter and our elebration of Christ’s victory over death.

That victory lasts.

Over the next few weeks, I want to practice explaining and defending the resurrection with you. We need to answer a number of questions:

  • Is Christianity legitimate or valid? Should we let Christianity stay around? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07ilpWCx7wk

  • Is Christianity good?

  • Why does God allow so much suffering, especially if Jesus has risen fom the dead?

  • Does Christianity take all the fun out of life?

Please come enjoy God’s Word and worship him with me Sundays at 9:30 am!

PS Want some great music from kids? Enjoy the piano recital at Peace next Sunday May 10th 2:00 pm

Work Day

Spring Work Day is Saturday May 3rd at Peace 9:30 - 12:00. Work day is a day for us all to show up and make the property ready for use.

Spring Work Day is different from the regular maintenance work. The maintenance work is a small group of guys who focus on technical tasks to keep the property running.

Work Day is a day for everyone to get the tasks done that take lots of time and energy.

Here are a few things we plan to do:

  • Deep cleaning - vacuum - lots of vacuuming! Please bring your vacuums.

  • Rake, pick up sticks, trim, trim trees, mow

Full list at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1agUMh-R0CRjbUj0WczAdkWVzoQtbKUn9K3uoYjBo8II/edit?tab=t.0

Plan to join us!

We’ll have donuts and coffee to keep everyone going!


Formal Wear for “Senior” Prom

Plainwell LifeCare Center is hosting a prom for its residents. They are looking for nicer attire that will fit senior adults.

They intend to clean the clothes and send them back; please be aware that there is always a risk.

If you have clothes you can lend, please consider doing so. I work with these adults regularly with Bible study, prayer, and worship. I would love to see them have a happy celebration.

Thank you!

Outdoor Services

Peace will offer and enjoy services in the great outdoors this summer.

Outdoor services will be at least the first and third Sundays of the month: June 1, June 15, July 6, July 20, August 4, August 18, and September 7.

Outdoor services will be weather dependent - if it is too hot, too cold, buggy, wet, etc, we’ll move inside!

Invite your friends to enjoy these wonderful services!

Friendship Sunday

We’re planning to connect with friends on Sunday August 3rd. We’ll have a little party together to build better relationships.

How are your friendships? Time to start working on them!

Grab a neighborhood map and start praying for the people around you - both physical and relational.

Calendar

May 3rd 9:30 am Spring Work Day

May 4th 9:30 am service and catechism

May 6th 10:00 Coffee and Craft Time!

May 6th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

May 8th 12:00 pm Senior luncheon and bingo

May 8th 6:00 pm Class for those interested in Peace

May 10th 2:00 pm Piano Recital (Noah Szczembara)

May 11th 9:30 am Service (Mother’s Day) and catechism

May 17th 9:30 am Christian Theology (Jesus the Messiah)

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year Student Recognition

May 29th 6:30 pm Ascension service

June 1st 10:45 am Congregational Update/Forum

August 3rd 9:30 Friendship Sunday




Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for April 24th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Thanks for Easter! It was a wonderful day.

From the animals, to the egg hunt, to the photo spot, the lunch, the community meal baskets, and the wonderful service, I couldn’t have asked for a better day with our Savior and you.

Jesus died for injustice and evil, he rose for vindication and good. A real Easter.

Watch the Easter sermon https://youtu.be/jiDNwseUdAM

Take an Easter quiz https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeF9-Hf7fvw0R_YKqqa98A8BIMbXOw8tVVfeAdu7osHeQkV_Q/viewform?usp=header

Watch out for those “empty tomb” stories!

EMPTY! Easter Escape Room

EMPTY! - Easter Escape Room
Peter & John have raced to see for themselves, the tomb is empty. But how? Where is Jesus' body, is this a robbery or a miracle?
Come join the adventure! Bring the family and experience the Real Easter.
Sunday, April 27th at 10:45 am Peace Lutheran.
805 S. Wilmott St
Otsego, MI


Work Day

Spring Work Day is Saturday May 3rd at Peace 9:30 - 12:00. Work day is a day for us all to show up and make the property ready for use.

Spring Work Day is different from the regular maintenance work. The maintenance work is a small group of guys who focus on technical tasks to keep the property running.

Work Day is a day for everyone to get the tasks done that take lots of time and energy.

Here are a few things we plan to do:

  • Deep cleaning

  • Trim trees

  • Rake as needed

Full list at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1agUMh-R0CRjbUj0WczAdkWVzoQtbKUn9K3uoYjBo8II/edit?tab=t.0

Plan to join us!

We’ll have donuts and coffee to keep everyone going!

Basic Faith for Middle School Students: Catechism

How do learn faith? How do we gain hearts that believe what is a good and true, and lives that live what is good and true?

Our answer is catechism - a special class designed for middle school students.

After our children receive education from preschool to 5th grade, middle school students (grades 6-8) receive the next level of instruction in catechism class. Catechism class systematically instructs students in the basic teachings of the Christian faith. Catechism doesn’t teach Bible stories; it teaches doctrine so we can gain the mind of Christ. 

If you’re a 6-8th grade student now or in the fall of 2025, I hope you’ll join me for this class. I love spending time with you and helping you learn to follow Jesus. 

If you are a parent of a 5th grader, please contact me so that I can get your student registered for the class. Call or text 269-694-6104.

Our 2025 group will start June 8th at 10:45 am!

Calendar

April 27th 9:30 am service and catechism

April 27th 10:45 EMPTY! Easter Escape Room

May 1st 6:00 pm Class for those interested in Peace

May 3rd 9:30 am Spring Work Day

May 4th 9:30 am service and catechism

May 6th 10:00 Coffee and Craft Time!

May 6th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

May 8th 12:00 pm Senior luncheon and bingo

May 11th 9:30 am Mother’s Day

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year Student Recognition

May 29th 6:30 pm Ascension

June 1st 10:45 am Congregational Update/Forum


Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for April 18th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

It’s Holy Week - and Easter!

Good Friday service on April 18th at 6:30 pm

Real Easter

Peeps. Crème filled eggs. Chocolate.


Bunnies. Chicks. Lambs.


Lilies. Tulips. Daffodils.


They’re all fun things that are part of spring. But they actually take us back to the real Easter.


While the religions of the East speak of dissolving into the ocean of being, and while Islam and the Christian cults portray an otherworldly future, the Bible promises resurrection. This is different. It’s this life laid hold of and turned around. Resurrection is Jesus taking us through the valley of the shadow and out into a happily ever after, complete with best wedding ever. Without Jesus, life ends with a funeral. With him, there is a never-ending feast.


Celebrate Jesus’ victory with us on April 20th at 9:30 am. Pictures, lunch and egg hunt to follow up.


Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

P.S. Can you help us get ready? Prep on Saturday April 19th at 10:00 am.

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for April 11th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Is killing okay?

If there is one thing we almost all agree on, its that killing is wrong. Why? Even if we don’t know why, we know its wrong. Want to talk about God? Ask people if killing is wrong.

Life issues abound. Capital punishment. Suicide. Abortion. Eugenics. Assisted suicide and aid-in-dying. Self-defense. We’ll hear why this Sunday.

See you Sunday at 9:30.

We’re on the 5th Commandment “You shall not murder.”

This week

Friends, it will be good to get into this helpful study with you. May God work among us to lead us into new life.

Sincerely,

Pastor T

Couple of other things:

 

Real Easter

Peeps. Crème filled eggs. Chocolate.


Bunnies. Chicks. Lambs.


Lilies. Tulips. Daffodils.


They’re all fun things that are part of spring. But they actually take us back to the real Easter.


While the religions of the East speak of dissolving into the ocean of being, and while Islam and the Christian cults portray an otherworldly future, the Bible promises resurrection. This is different. It’s this life laid hold of and turned around. Resurrection is Jesus taking us through the valley of the shadow and out into a happily ever after, complete with best wedding ever. Without Jesus, life ends with a funeral. With him, there is a never-ending feast.


Celebrate Jesus’ victory with us on April 20th at 9:30 am. Lunch and egg hunt to follow up.


Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Spring Work Day

Spring Work Day is Saturday May 3rd at Peace 9:30 - 12:00. Work day is a day for us all to show up and make the property ready for use.

Spring Work Day is different from the regular maintenance work. The maintenance work is a small group of guys who focus on technical tasks to keep the property running. Work Day is a day for everyone to get the tasks done that take lots of time and energy - rake leaves as needed, stick pick up, trim trees, planting, cleaning out the building, and other large tasks.

Plan to join us!

We’ll have donuts and coffee to keep everyone going!

Facility Sharing

Some people at Peace have suggested we consider sharing the facility with another group or organization.

The council is currently considering this idea and exploring options.

Facility sharing brings with it a whole host of questions - who will use it? When? What will the legal arrangement be? How much money is involved? Insurance? Facility maintenance? And lots more.

One organization that WELS congregations have relied on in the past is “SpaceTogether”. They equip congregations to share space. You might find some of their information useful. https://www.spacetogether.com/

 

Calendar

April 13th 9:30 am Palm Sunday service with processional (no catechism)

April 17th 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday service

April 18th 6:30 pm Good Friday service

April 19th 10:00 am Easter set up

April 20th 9:30 am “Real Easter” service and lunch

May 3rd 9:30 am Spring Work Day

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year celebration

June 1st 10:45 am Congregational Update/Forum

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for April 4th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

What’s the truth?

I think if there is one comment I hear more than most, it’s this: “I don’t know what to believe anymore. I try to listen to all the sides. I’m not sure what is true.”

Already in 2004, Ralph Keyes declared that we live in a post-truth world. By 2016, it was the word of the year. I’d love to think that things have gotten better since, but I don’t think elections and a global pandemic have helped much.

How do we speak in a post-truth world? Is winning most important so that we get to tell the story? Is surviving most important? Do we tell the story no matter what happens? And what story? Whose story? Which facts matter depends on which story we tell.

The pursuit of truth was one of the most signficant efforts of Jesus’ life. Only the man who caused Pilate to say, “what is truth”, could possibly claim “I am the way, the truth, and the life”.

Let’s see what he has to say.

See you Sunday at 9:30.

We’re on the 8th Commandment “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor”.

This week

Friends, it will be good to get into this helpful study with you. May God work among us to lead us into new life.

Sincerely,

Pastor T

PS Please consider moving forward in the service. The back has been quite full the last few weeks. Thanks!

Couple of other things:

 

Door hanging

Let’s connect with the people of Otsego - Plainwell on Saturday April 5th at 9:30 am. Join the Growth and Renewal to hang some door hangers!

Real Easter

Peeps. Crème filled eggs. Chocolate.
Bunnies. Chicks. Lambs.
Lilies. Tulips. Daffodils.
They’re all fun things that are part of spring. But they actually take us back to the real Easter.
While the religions of the East speak of dissolving into the ocean of being, and while Islam and the Christian cults portray an otherworldly future, the Bible promises resurrection. This is different. It’s this life laid hold of and turned around. Resurrection is Jesus taking us through the valley of the shadow and out into a happily ever after, complete with best wedding ever. Without Jesus, life ends with a funeral. With him, there is a never-ending feast.
Celebrate Jesus’ victory with us on April 20th at 9:30 am. Lunch and egg hunt to follow up.
Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Spring Work Day

Spring Work Day is Saturday May 3rd at Peace 9:30 - 12:00. Work day is a day for us all to show up and make the property ready for use.

Spring Work Day is different from the regular maintenance work. The maintenance work is a small group of guys who focus on technical tasks to keep the property running. Work Day is a day for everyone to get the tasks done that take lots of time and energy - rake leaves as needed, stick pick up, trim trees, planting, cleaning out the building, and other large tasks.

Plan to join us!

We’ll have donuts and coffee to keep everyone going!

Basic Faith for Middle School Students: Catechism

How do learn faith? How do we gain hearts that believe what is a good and true, and lives that live what is good and true?

Our answer is catechism - a special class designed for middle school students.

After our children receive education from preschool to 5th grade, middle school students (grades 6-8) receive the next level of instruction in catechism class. Catechism class systematically instructs students in the basic teachings of the Christian faith. Catechism doesn’t teach Bible stories; it teaches doctrine so we can gain the mind of Christ. 

If you’re a 6-8th grade student now or in the fall of 2025, I hope you’ll join me for this class. I love spending time with you and helping you learn to follow Jesus. 

If you are a parent of a 5th grader, please contact me so that I can get your student registered for the class. Call or text 269-694-6104.

Our 2025 group will start June 8th at 10:45 am!

 

Calendar

April 5th 9:30 am Door hanging

April 6th 9:30 am Service

April 6th 10:45 Catechism

April 9th 6:30 pm Lent service: Reflections on Repentance

April 10th 12:00 am Senior lunch

April 10th 6:00 pm Inquirer’s Class for those interested in Peace and it’s beliefs, practices

April 11th 10:00 am Egg packing, Ladies Guild

April 13th 9:30 am Palm Sunday service with processional

April 17th 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday service

April 18th 6:30 pm Good Friday service

April 19th 10:00 am Easter set up

April 20th 9:30 am “Real Easter” service and lunch

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year celebration

June 1st 10:45 am Congregational Update/Forum

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for March 27th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Money, possessions, and theft.

Do you think it is a problem today? Where do you see most theft take place?

How can we stop it, or at the very least, reduce it? Can we stop being part of it ourselves?

That’s what we’ve got to ask this week. We’re on the 7th Commandment “You shall not steal”.

This week

Friends, it will be good to get into this helpful study with you. May God work among us to lead us into new life.

Sincerely,

Pastor T




Couple of other things:

  • Easter planning https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/easter2025planning

  • Easter candy - we’re collecting individually wrapped Easter candies from now to April 11th. Please place in the office.

  • Easter choir practices for the first time this Sunday, March 30th. Also April 6th and 13th.

Evangelism Workshop

How do you start spiritual conversations? Who are you trying to share the good news of Jesus with these days for the sake of their soul? I’d love your help as I try to share the gospel with the people of Otsego-Plainwell.

Join me for our evangelism workshop on Saturday, March 29th at 9:30 am.

WELS 175th Anniversary Concert

The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, the denomination we are affiliated with, is celebrating 175 years of working together to bring Christ to the ends of the earth.

As part of the celebration, our schools put on a concert.

Enjoy it! https://www.youtube.com/live/Ua92EoFlmSk?feature=shared

There are a number of other events happening to celebrate 175 years. For more, check out https://welshistoricalinstitute.org/175th/

Lent By Candlelight

Lent by Candlelight takes place on Saturday, March 29 at 5:00 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bangor. Lent by Candlelight serves as a quiet time of reflection and meditation during the busy season of Lent. During this event, we will focus on the “Quiet Voices of Lent.” These are the minor characters of Lent who appear in the Passion History and have a lot to share with us. All Ladies are invited to this event. Finger sandwiches and other light snacks will be served. We look forward to your attending. Bring a friend! If you have questions, please contact Katrina Reis at (269) 993-5448 or reis.katrina@gmail.com. Trinity is located at 115 E. Monroe St. Bangor, MI.

 

Door hanging

Let’s connect with the people of Otsego - Plainwell on Saturday April 5th. Join the Growth and Renewal to hang some door hangers!

 

Calendar

March 29th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

March 30th 9:30 am Service

March 30th 10:45 Catechism

April 1st 10:00 am Craft time

April 1st 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

April 2nd 6:30 pm Lent service: Reflections on Repentance

April 3rd 6:00 pm Inquirer’s Class for those interested in Peace and it’s beliefs, practices

April 5th 9:30 am Door hanging

April 6th 9:30 am Service

April 6th 10:45 Catechism

April 10th 12:00 am Senior lunch

April 11th 10:00 am Egg packing, Ladies Guild

April 13th 9:30 am Palm Sunday service with processional

April 18th 6:30 pm Good Friday service

April 19th 10:00 am Easter set up

April 20th 9:30 am “Real Easter” service

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year celebration

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for March 20th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

“Human sexuality is something sacred to be stewarded”.

Opportunities to give grace are everywhere. The unhappy marriage, the emotional affair, pornography, no dates, ghosting to end relationships - every one of these situations is an opportunity for grace.

I’m not saying it will be easy.

But we have something broken hearts need. Grace. Good news. Release from obligations. Forgiveness. Removal of guilt. Approval in Jesus Christ.

Lord, give us strength to steward the sexuality of our friends and neighbors.

We enjoyed teaching on the 6th Commandment this past Sunday.

Some pastors and others in the WELS have been preparing some resources on sexuality in this age. Check out “MadeKnown” if you’re looking for help. https://madeknown.net/

If you’re like me, that will lead you to repentance. https://youtu.be/4x1Z7R4J56o

This week we’re finishing up the 6th Commandment. Let me encourage you to spend some time preparing

Friends, it will be good to get into this helpful study with you. May God work among us to lead us into new life.

Sincerely,

Pastor T



Couple of other things:

  • Lawnmower coordinator - Thanks for looking to serve God’s people. Josh Gower and I are going to organize lawnmowing this summer.

  • Easter planning https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/easter2025planning

  • Easter candy - we’re collecting individually wrapped Easter candies from now to Apirl 11th

WELS 175th Anniversary Celebration

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Easter choir

You are welcome to join the Easter choir. We’ll practice March 30th, April 6th, and April 13th in order to sing on Sunday April 20th.

Budget review

The council is taking on a detailed, line by line review for the next step of good stewardship at Peace. We’re confident that there isn’t any misuse of funds, but we want to see if there are opportunities to better use our funds.

If you have any questions or suggestions as we go about this work, please pass them on. You can find the budget here.

 

Calendar

March 21st 11:00 am Ladies Guild

March 21st 6:30 pm Bunco

March 2rd 9:30 am Service

March 23rd 10:45 Catechism

March 27th 6:30 pm Class for adults interested in making a public profession of faith with the people of God at Peace

March 29th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

March 30th 9:30 am Service

March 30th 10:45 Catechism

April 1st 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

April 5th 9:30 am Door hanging

April 13th 9:30 am Palm Sunday service with processional

April 18th 6:30 pm Good Friday service

April 20th 9:30 am “Real Easter” service

May 18th 9:30 am End of Year celebration

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for March 13th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

There is a limit to perfection, but God’s commands are boundless. (Psalm 119:96)

Amazing thought. God’s commands are even better than perfection.

We’re discovering that right now at Peace. Last week we studied the 4th Commandment. If you missed it,

If you’re like me, that will lead you to repentance. https://youtu.be/4x1Z7R4J56o

This week we’re studying the 6th Commandment. Let me encourage you to spend some time preparing

Friends, it will be good to get into this helpful study with you. May God work among us to lead us into new life.

Sincerely,

Pastor T



Couple of other things:

Holy Week

Let’s gather for Holy Week 2025 to walk with our Savior as he walks to the cross.

Palm Sunday April 13th 9:30 am entrance with palm processional

Maundy Thursday April 17th 6:30 pm with Lord’s Supper

Good Friday April 18th 6:30 pm Service of 7 Words and Darkness

Easter Sunday April 20th 9:30 am

 

Calendar

March 15th 9:30 am Christian Theology: Jesus

March 16th 9:30 am Service

March 16th 10:45 Catechism

March 19th 6:30 pm Lent service

March 20th 6:30 pm Class for adults interested in making a public profession of faith with the people of God at Peace

March 21st 11:00 am Ladies Guild

March 23rd 9:30 am Service

March 23rd 10:45 Catechism

March 29th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

April 5th 9:30 am Door hanging

April 20th 9:30 am “Real Easter” service

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for March 6th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Repentance.

A total change of beliefs and behavior.

This Lent we are considering repentance from two angles.

  • on Sundays we are looking at the 10 Commandments. Do we live according to God’s instruction? If not, let’s repent.

  • On Wednesdays, we are reflecting on the practice of repentance.

We had our first midweek Lenten service this past Wednesday night at 6:30 pm.

This Sunday we take our first look at the 10 Commandments. Let me encourage you to spend some time preparing

Friends, it will be good to get into this helpful study with you. May God work among us to lead us into new life.

Sincerely,

Pastor T


Couple of other things:


Printers

We are working on replacing our printer.

We’re getting rid of the large printer/copier and downsizing to a small business printer/copier.

Please use the smaller Brother business printer/copier as much as you can. If you need help using it or installing drivers, please ask pastor.

We’ll have a few weeks of transition. During that time, we’ll have the big Ricoh printer/copier around in case we have problems.

Thanks for your help! Please speak with pastor if you have problems.

Ushers will be able to pick up service outlines on the pnew printer/copier tray.

Easter candy

We’re collecting donated Easter candy from now until April 6th for our Easter egg hunt. We’d like to collect about 400 pieces for our egg hunt!

If you would like to donate candy, please donate individually wrapped candies. Candy may be left in the box in the office.

We’ll stuff the eggs on April 11th!

 

Door Hanging - Save the date

We want to reconnect with the people physically around - the people of Otsego - Plainwell.

One way the Growth and Renewal Team would like to do this is by hanging door hangers and inviting people to Easter services as well as to reach out to us.

No talking necessary - hang and go :-)

Plan to be part on April 5th starting at 9:30!

We’d love to see 20% of our group of Christians participate.

 

Calendar

March 9th 9:30 am Service

March 9th 10:45 Catechism

March 12th 6:30 pm Lent service

March 13th 12:00 pm Senior lunch

March 13th 6:30 pm Class for adults interested in making a public profession of faith with the people of God at Peace

March 15th 9:30 am Christian Theology: Jesus

March 16th 9:30 am Service

March 16th 10:45 Catechism

March 29th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

April 5th 9:30 am Door hanging

April 20th 9:30 am “Real Easter” service

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Easter 2025 planning

Real Easter” - Easter planning

 I’m looking forward to celebrating the resurrection of Jesus with you April 20th at 9:30 am.

March 9th until April 11th - donate Easter candy for egg hunt - goal is to collect about 400 pieces of individually wrapped small candies

April 5th - Door hanging - connect with community and invite to Easter

April 11th 10:00 am - Pack Easter eggs for Easter Egg Hunt

April 19th 9:30 am - set up for Easter lunch; set up Easter flowers

April 20th 9:30 am - service

April 20th 10:45 am - lunch and Easter egg hunt, Easter animals

April 20th 12:00 pm - Easter clean up - need team

Other notes

  • Easter flowers can be given BY you (we aren’t buying flowers) and brought in during the week before the service. We love to have Easter flowers and would appreciate if you would donate a lilly, hydrangea, tulip, or other Easter appropriate flower.

  • Lunch clean up - need a crew of 5-6 set in advance to clean up

  • Easter baskets for the community are getting prepped to give away. Sign up to come

Here is what we need

Gifts for the Gospel: Pledges 2025

Gifts for the Gospel: Pledges

Friends, we’re encouraging everyone to be part of our pledge process for 2025.

What is this pledge?

A pledge is a commitment to do something. In this case, we’re committing to offerings.

God calls us to offer him our best in thanks and praise for all he has done. We do that together at Peace through offerings. We are providing this pledge process so that we can all consider our gifts and offerings.

We’re offered a two sided card you can fill out here or on site for this pledge. Download pledge card here

How do we complete these pledges?

Christians have generally followed the practice of proportional giving. What that means is we look at our income and we give a portion of it to the Lord. In the Old Testament era, this amount was often 10% and occasionally exceeded 10%. Jesus never gave a portion. The apostle Paul simply said, “Give in proportion to your income”.

We practice proportional giving instead of needs based giving or random giving. Our offerings are our firstfruits.

The provided card is set up to lead participants through proportional giving. The back of the card lists the percentages (1-12%) for certain local incomes. Using this table, you can select a pledge amount that works for you. Or write in your own!

Turn in the card in the basket on site so they can be offered to the Lord on March 2nd.

When is this pledge process?

We’ve started it now. Pledges should be turned in by March 2nd. We’ll present them as an offering to the Lord that day.

What will we do with these pledges?

These pledges will be used to compare with budgeted giving, but council and the pastor will NOT see individual amounts.


Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Lawnmower Coordinator

Lawnmower coordinator

We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around the church this summer.

OVERVIEW

We’re looking for someone to take the lead in coordinating lawn mowers. A good person for this job will love Jesus, be committed to bringing people the gospel, want a good looking site to use as a base for ministry, and understand a little about mowing large sites.

POSITION

  • Volunteer lawn mower coordinator

  • Reports to pastor

  • Flexible schedule, requires an hour on average per week for the summer

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

  • Make sure the grass gets mowed and cared for (trimmed, watered?) in a timely manner

  • Able to organize people and schedule

  • Able to communicate with people about tasks and duties

DUTIES

  • Schedule individuals to mow the lawn as needed

  • Train individuals to mow

  • manage schedule changes and adjustments


Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Good news for Peace for February 27th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Hey, we made it! This Sunday, March 2nd, I will install Pastor Timothy Johnson as the new resident pastor at St John’s in Sturgis. Then I will be officially done!

I won’t gloss over the situation by saying we’ve thrived along the way. I know I noticed how much didn’t get done. I feel badly about that. I pray that God turns us around and leads us to good gospel ministry.

Thank you for your support and participation along the way. I hope the Lord has been at work in your life in this challenge to let you live as a Christian in some new ways. Let me know how!

See you all soon.

Gifts for the Gospel: Pledges

Friends, we’re encouraging everyone to be part of our pledge process for 2025.

What is this pledge?

A pledge is a commitment to do something. In this case, we’re committing to offerings.

God calls us to offer him our best in thanks and praise for all he has done. We do that together at Peace through offerings. We are providing this pledge process so that we can all consider our gifts and offerings.

We’re offered a two sided card you can fill out here or on site for this pledge. Download pledge card here

How do we complete these pledges?

Christians have generally followed the practice of proportional giving. What that means is we look at our income and we give a portion of it to the Lord. In the Old Testament era, this amount was often 10% and occasionally exceeded 10%. Jesus never gave a portion. The apostle Paul simply said, “Give in proportion to your income”.

We practice proportional giving instead of needs based giving or random giving. Our offerings are our firstfruits.

The provided card is set up to lead participants through proportional giving. The back of the card lists the percentages (1-12%) for certain local incomes. Using this table, you can select a pledge amount that works for you. Or write in your own!

Turn in the card in the basket on site so they can be offered to the Lord on March 2nd.

When is this pledge process?

We’ve started it now. Pledges should be turned in by March 2nd. We’ll present them as an offering to the Lord that day.

What will we do with these pledges?

These pledges will be used to compare with budgeted giving, but council and the pastor will NOT see individual amounts.

P.S. We gather as God’s people at 9:30 on Sunday morning. Prepare by reading and studying Luke 9:28-36. What glimpses of glory has the Lord given you?

Lent starts March 5th at 6:30.

Find more at https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/lent2025

“Real Easter” - Easter planning

 I’m looking forward to celebrating the resurrection of Jesus with you April 20th at 9:30 am.

Here is a little plan for the day:

  • Service 9:30 am

  • Lunch following will be breakfast sandwiches for a sit or stand meal

  • Easter flowers can be given BY you (we aren’t buying flowers) and brought in during the week before the service. We love to have Easter flowers and would appreciate if you would donate a lilly, hydrangea, tulip, or other Easter appropriate flower.

  • Easter baskets for the community are getting prepped to give away

  • Easter invites will be hung on local doors April 5th and are available at the next steps table; also online https://www.facebook.com/events/1145832216922277/

Here is what we need

 

Door Hanging - Save the date

We want to reconnect with the people physically around - the people of Otsego - Plainwell.

One way the Growth and Renewal Team would like to do this is by hanging door hangers and inviting people to Easter services as well as to reach out to us.

No talking necessary - hang and go :-)

Plan to be part on April 5th starting at 9:30!

We’d love to see 20% of our group of Christians participate.

Lawnmower coordinator

We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around the church this summer.

OVERVIEW

We’re looking for someone to take the lead in coordinating lawn mowers. A good person for this job will love Jesus, be committed to bringing people the gospel, want a good looking site to use as a base for ministry, and understand a little about mowing large sites.

POSITION

Volunteer lawn mower coordinator

Reports to pastor (no maintenance coordinator currently)

Flexible schedule, requires an hour on average per week for the summer

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Make sure the grass gets mowed and cared for (trimmed, watered?) in a timely manner

Able to organize people and schedule

Able to communicate with people about tasks and duties

DUTIES

Schedule individuals to mow the lawn as needed

Train individuals to mow

manage schedule changes and adjustments

 
 

March 2nd 9:30 am Service

March 2nd 10:45 am Catechism

March 4th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

March 5th 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday service

March 9th 9:30 am Service

March 9th 10:45 Catechism

March 12th 6:30 pm Lent service

March 13th 12:00 pm Senior lunch

March 15th 9:30 am Christian Theology: Jesus

March 29th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

April 5th 9:30 am Door hanging

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace for February 20th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

You have probably heard some concern in the news lately (if you read or watch) about "Lutheran" services that receive government funding and have come under criticism of the current administration. I'm not going to link to those reports; you can search things like "Lutheran services" and "illegal payments" if you want to see more.

I'm not defending or criticizing that action.

In case you don't know, our synod, the Wisconsin Evnagelical Lutheran Synod, has generally had the practice of not accepting government funds for work. This is not a specific doctrine (ie, we don’t think it is explicitly taught by God in the Bible), but it is a religious or spiritual belief. In the Bible we often see that the government supported the work of the church or even that the church and the government were one and the same. We are in a different position today. We have decided to not accept government funds for ministry because we believe in the two kingdoms, we live by the separation of church and state, and we think it is practical. we

In order to provide some assurance, I’ve placed the synod’s statement of income and expenses below. You can see the funding sources there. I’m familiar with all these funding sources. Admittedly, statements are hard to read and money can be hidden. We have been assured that we are not receiving any funds multiple times. For example, here is a statement from our synod's president. https://wels.net/?mailpoet_router&endpoint=view_in_browser&action=view&data=WzkzNzAsIjdlMWY0NGVjMGNlYyIsMTgwNTAsIjE4a3Zsajlod24yODQwc2NjMDQ0a280OG9nb2cwMG9vIiwzMzU4NywwXQ

This has usually been the practice of our churches and schools. On occasion, school choice and local aid partnerships might affect this practice.

Peace has not accepted government funding although we accepted the PPP loan during COVID.

The gospel is truly good news. It turns the world the upside down - the rich are made poor, and the poor become rich; the generous are blessed, and the hoarders are woe-d; the pure and innocent are strengthened, and the corrupt are weakened.

Be part of a local congregation. Know what is going on.

Valentines for All

Thanks to Joan Retberg, Roger and Cindy Commissaris, Jeanne Myers, and Kart and Shelly Wedge for the nice Valentines gathering they put on for us! Great games!

Meditations - Subscriptions

Our devotional magazine “Meditations” is available by print subscription. Sign up at the next steps table!

Gifts for the Gospel: Pledges

Friends, we’re encouraging everyone to be part of our pledge process for 2025.

What is this pledge?

A pledge is a commitment to do something. In this case, we’re committing to offerings.

God calls us to offer him our best in thanks and praise for all he has done. We do that together at Peace through offerings. We are providing this pledge process so that we can all consider our gifts and offerings.

We’re offered a two sided card you can fill out here or on site for this pledge. Download pledge card here

How do we complete these pledges?

Christians have generally followed the practice of proportional giving. What that means is we look at our income and we give a portion of it to the Lord. In the Old Testament era, this amount was often 10% and occasionally exceeded 10%. Jesus never gave a portion. The apostle Paul simply said, “Give in proportion to your income”.

We practice proportional giving instead of needs based giving or random giving. Our offerings are our firstfruits.

The provided card is set up to lead participants through proportional giving. The back of the card lists the percentages (1-12%) for certain local incomes. Using this table, you can select a pledge amount that works for you. Or write in your own!

Turn in the card in the basket on site so they can be offered to the Lord on March 2nd.

When is this pledge process?

We’ve started it now. Pledges should be turned in by March 2nd. We’ll present them as an offering to the Lord that day.

What will we do with these pledges?

These pledges will be used to compare with budgeted giving, but council and the pastor will NOT see individual amounts.

Lent starts March 5th at 6:30.

Find more at https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/lent2025

“Real Easter” - Easter planning

 I’m looking forward to celebrating the resurrection of Jesus with you April 20th at 9:30 am.

Here is a little plan for the day:

  • Service 9:30 am

  • Lunch following will be breakfast sandwiches for a sit or stand meal

  • Easter flowers can be given BY you (we aren’t buying flowers) and brought in during the week before the service. We love to have Easter flowers and would appreciate if you would donate a lilly, hydrangea, tulip, or other Easter appropriate flower.

  • Easter baskets for the community are getting prepped to give away

  • Easter invites will be hung on local doors April 5th and are available at the next steps table; also online https://www.facebook.com/events/1145832216922277/

Here is what we need

Security Team

The congregation has been investigating a formal security team at Peace for about three years.

Though the process, the council has realized that we don't have the resources to pursue this team at this point.

We have learned for example that any armed security team requires each individual to carry liability insurance and the congregation to carry liability insurance. It is impossible to guarantee that we can get that insurance, and in the current church insurance climate, we can't take the risk. The congregation will also have to have regular training and oversight of any team, and that would be difficult.

We realize this realization might not sit well with some. If you want to give the council any feedback, please reach out to pastor at 269-694-6104.

Peace will continue to do what we can to keep us all safe when we gather together. Ultimately we trust ourselves to the Lord and we remain vigilant against the evil we regularly face.

Modular

The congregation previously decided to dispose of the modular. The modular is starting to break down and we wanted to deal with it before it becomes unusable.

There has been no interest to take it.

The council has decided to stop working on this issue for now so that we can focus on the pressing issue of revitalizing the congregation.

If you or someone you know would like to inquire about the modular, please reach out to the office 269-694-6104. Thanks!

Vice-President/Treasurer

We function with four individuals on our council: a president, vice-president/treasurer, recording secretary and an elder.

Three positions - president, vice-president/treasurer, and Secretary are required by our bylaws to comply with state law.

The congregation was unable to elect a vice-president for the year.

In order to satisfy the bylaws and state law, the council appointed Terry Brower to the title of vice-president. He will not carry out the duties of the position, but if need arises he will have the position/title.

 
 

February 21st 6:30 pm Bunco

February 23rd 9:30 am Service

February 23rd 10:45 Catechism

March 4th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

March 5th 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday Lenten service and snacks

March 15th 9:30 am Christianity Explored

March 17th 6:30 pm Christianity Explored

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org

Real Easter - Easter 2025

Real Easter

Peeps. Crème filled eggs. Chocolate.


Bunnies. Chicks. Lambs.


Lilies. Tulips. Daffodils.


They’re all fun things that are part of spring. But they actually take us back to the real Easter.
While the religions of the East speak of dissolving into the ocean of being, and while Islam and the Christian cults portray an otherworldly future, the Bible promises resurrection. This is different. It’s this life laid hold of and turned around. Resurrection is Jesus taking us through the valley of the shadow and out into a happily ever after, complete with best wedding ever. Without Jesus, life ends with a funeral. With him, there is a never-ending feast.


Celebrate Jesus’ victory with us on April 20th at 9:30 am.

Lunch and fun after!


Visit https://peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Reflections on Repentance - Lent 2025

“Reflections on Repentance: Lent 2025”

“The Lord is not slow to do what he promised. . . . Instead, he is patient for your sakes, not wanting anyone to perish, but all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

Luther began his famous debate theses noting that Scripture’s call to repentance is intended as a way of life.

Using David’s great penitential Psalm 51, penned following his affair with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah, this series of Lenten reflections explores the depths of our sinful depravity, the brokenness of our relationship with God, our dire need for rescue, and the good news of forgiveness, cleansing, and rejoicing in our restored relationship with God and the promise of eternal life through Jesus our Savior.

March 5 “Realizing Our Need for Repentance” Psalm 51:Heading, 1-2

March 12 “Remembering God’s Perfect Demands” Psalm 51:6

March 19 “Recognizing Against Whom We Sin” Psalm 51:3-4

March 26 “Revealing Our Sinful Nature” Psalm 51:5

April 2 “Relying on God’s Grace” Psalm 51:7

April 9 “Removing Our Guilt” Psalm 51:8-9

We’re enjoying snacks after the Lenten services. Please sign up at the next steps table to bring snacks one week!

Got this from a friend? Sign up here: https://peace.breezechms.com/form/news

Unsubscribe? Email church@peaceotsego.org

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

Have a suggestion or comment you’d like to share? Let us know!

Would you like to donate to Peace? Please use the link for online giving

Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org