Good news for Peace for October 30th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Whew! What a week. Sunday we had our regular voters’ meeting to decide 2026 ministry. That was tough. Tuesday night the Right to Life banquet was hosted at Peace and I tried to make sure everything went smoothly. Wednesday and Thursday I had studies on Genesis. Friday we had the Trail for Treaters and talked to tons of people in the community. Saturday we’re cleaning up the site for the fall. Sunday we’re celebrating the Reformation. It’s good, but I am so ready for a break.

We don’t stay busy as God’s people to find good things, but because we are so filled with good things. We are convinced that the God of heaven and earth has made a home for us, that he does not hold our failures in the struggle against evil against us but has won for us, and that he can’t wait to finish the fight!

So press on, friends, with all the strength God gives you.

See you Sunday at 9:30

Pastor T

P.S. Fall work day Saturday morning at 9:30. Be glad to get ready for winter with you! https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jRW9BdFPyF78VvJ4s4zm-Sl2dM3tSMmFFIcfY2SeXrM/edit?usp=sharing

Gospel Spotlight

This week I spent time at the Otsego-Plainwell Right to Life banquet. I heard some great stories and gained hope for life.

But the best part of the night, I got to invite a young lady to services. She said, do you meet here for service every week? Yes, every week. We gather each week to receive God’s forgiveness and gain the Spirit for life.

Where did you see the gospel at work this week?

Prayer Highlight

A young man from Allegan recently called the church looking for regular rides to service. This week I invite you to pray for him to have chances to come to service.

“Gracious God, your Word and Spirit have gone into the world changing the hearts and minds of people. Thank you for going before us especially to this young man. We pray that more doors open for him to gather with a Christian congregation and be saved.

“In Jesus’ name we pray,

“Amen.”


Our sick or homebound friends - Judy Haugh, Brenda Grimm, Shirley Kling, Darlene Syers, Irene Haas, Maxine Sandahl, and Marge Gavan

 

Trail for Treaters

Trail for Treaters was great! Thanks for all the donations!

“Still Not Frozen: Reformation 2025”

I talked with a guy a while back who started going to church. I asked him how that was going. He said he had a little more peace. I was so glad for him.

We’re still changing. We’re growing. We’re becoming. Not by our own power. But by the power of the gospel.

Come enjoy this life-giving gospel with me Sunday November 2nd at 9:30 as we celebrate the Reformation.

After service, we’ll have an ice cream party. Be sure to pick up a coin at Peace before hand, and grab one to share with a friend!

https://youtube.com/shorts/HuXu0X--hHQ

Voters’ Meeting follow up

The voters met Sunday, October 26th after the service to make decisions for 2026 ministry.

  • We approved an Emergency Funding Plan that would be implemented if necessary. The chief point of the Emergency Funding Plan is that we would release all gifts that had not been designated by a donor. This would mainly apply to Memorial Funds, which are gifts given in honor of a deceased individual. To see this plan, see our “Doctrine and Policy Handbook” https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QejXdmcVtYb7t4ChOhkcDpz9YkeCvGMTL3KcYwhUEuo/edit?usp=drive_link

  • We approved a budget for 2026, affirming our commitment to Christian ministry next year. We decided to continue ministry in 2026 expecting about a $15,000 deficit (ie spending about $15,000 more than we make in the year).

  • We did NOT decide how particularly to carry out ministry in 2026 in order to address the deficit and the ministry situation. We also did not decide when we would make this decision. We did NOT decide a 2026 ministry plan.

We’ll try to follow up with you regarding decisions for 2026 ministry. We invite you to talk with pastor or the council.

IRA Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)

Individuals 70 ½ or older should also know that they can receive some excellent benefits through IRA charitable distributions. Since the explanation is fairly lengthy, please visit the WELS page that explains. https://mcg.welsrc.net/download-mcg/ira-charitable-distributions/. If you need help, please speak with Ralph Holewa, our financial secretary.

Making Easter worship more wonderful: Candle

We’re thinking to make our Easter worship more wonderful in a visual way: a paschal candle!

The Paschal Candle is a symbol of our Lord’s resurrection and His visible presence here on earth during the 40 days after Easter.

The candle is lighted from the new fire kindled at the beginning of the Easter services.

This Easter candle symbolizes many things:

  • Before the minister lights the candle, he draws a cross in the wax. Above the cross he inscribes a letter “A” and below it the letter “O”, the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. These symbolize that Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

  • Then he draws the year on the candle to signify that the risen Christ shall be a “pillar of fire” also in this year to lead us to the heavenly promised land.

  • There are wax nails put into the cross to symbolize the five wounds of Christ.  

After the Easter service, the Paschal candle is put next to the altar. It stands there and is light for all the services until the Ascension service.

On that day we extinguish it when we hear the words of the Gospel: “He was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God.” (Mark 16:19)”  (Adapted from What an Altar Guild Should Know, Paul H D Lang)

A Paschal candle is an affordable way ($150 - $200) to make our worship more beautiful. Here are some pictures. What do you think? Should we try one? Let me know.


Calendar

October 31st 4:00 pm Trail for Treaters

November 1st 9:30 am Fall Work Day

November 2nd 9:30 am “Still Not Frozen” Reformation celebration and ice cream party, catechism

November 4th 10:00 am Craft time

November 4th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

November 9th 9:30 service, catechism

November 13th 12:00 pm Senior lunch and bingo

November 15th 9:30 am Christian Theology

November 16th 9:30 service, catechism

November 26th 6:30 pm Thanksgiving service

January 19-21st Lutheran Leadership Conference https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/lutheranleadership2026

July 14-17 Youth Rally









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

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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 October 25th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Forum follow up and ministry planning

Thanks for doing gospel ministry with all of us. We love the challenge and grow together!

Sunday, October 19th we had a little conversation with the whole congregation at the end of service. I want to pass on to you what we discussed. Here is the TL;DR. I encourage you to take a few minutes, review it, then talk to your fellow people in gospel ministry.

A big thank you to everyone who participated in the discussion.

If you didn't get a chance to participate Sunday, feel free to watch the discussion and view the discussion guide. Then send me your answers after via email or text.

Video of the discussion https://youtu.be/o4NWnxv0j8E

Discussion guide https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kTGbtCyyt3fAvCQgpX-d-7T9aMMefrl4azcsIyJ-wqY/edit?usp=drive_link

If you'd like to only see the results of the discussion, I present the results here; the image below gives an overview.

Video of the results https://youtu.be/4GtX6i2oKSg

Finally, we'll take action for 2026 at our voters' meeting this coming Sunday, October 26th at 10:45 am. Here is the agenda with all the relevant reports and docs linked. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UaTos362_jOOKBo7WCzHj1d4zlU9MmnSBQfH9FL0_AY/edit?usp=sharing


Meanwhile, our study of Genesis has been great. If you haven’t been following along, now is a great time to catch up. https://nathanieltimmermann.podbean.com/

See you Sunday at 9:30

Pastor T


Gospel Spotlight

The other week I saw 6 people show up for Team. and Task Time. Together we worked to bring the people of Otsego-Plainwell the gospel. We sent cards. We planned Trail for Treaters and started work on it. We improved the welcome/next steps table. And everyone did it freely and gladly.

I love to see the willingness of people to share the gospel and to do more together than any of can do together.

Where did you see the gospel at work this week?

Prayer Highlight

This week I invite you to pray for Steve and Betsy on their profession of faith

Gracious God, you send your Spirit to convict us and enlighten us. We praise you and thank you for radically changing us and helping us become different people - the people we should be. Today we thank you for bringing new life to Steve and Betsy. Renew them with the life of your son Jesus Christ.

“In Jesus’ name we pray,

“Amen.”



Our sick or homebound friends - Frieda Walkley, Judy Haugh, Brenda Grimm, Shirley Kling, Darlene Syers, Irene Haas, Maxine Sandahl, and Marge Gavan

New Bible study

New Bible study starting next week Thursday, October 30th at 6:30 pm. Open to the public, all welcome. Studying and discussing Genesis.

Be glad to see you! Come as much as you can!

 

Trail for Treaters

Our Trail for Treaters spot was really popular last year because of our photo spot. Remember it?

I want kids and families to enjoy a fun, safe, and not too spooky Halloween. We’re already under way!

  • We’re going to have two displays at our spot again this year - Snoopy Halloween and Cookie Monster.

  • We’re collecting store bought cookies to give way. We want to tell people “Jesus crushes our monsters!”. You don’t need to individually wrap them. Just store bought!

  • I’ve got 4 people helping put our displays together.

  • I’ve got 2 people to help pass out cookies. I’m looking for at least 4 more!

Please get ahold of me and lets get it done to help a lot of people in our community! It’ll be downtown Otsego October 31st from 4 - 6 pm. Please reach out to me 269-694-6104.

“Still Not Frozen: Reformation 2025”

I talked with a guy a while back who started going to church. I asked him how that was going. He said he had a little more peace. I was so glad for him.

We’re still changing. We’re growing. We’re becoming. Not by our own power. But by the power of the gospel.

Come enjoy this life-giving gospel with me Sunday November 2nd at 9:30 as we celebrate the Reformation.

After service, we’ll have an ice cream party. Be sure to pick up a coin at Peace before hand, and grab one to share with a friend!

https://youtube.com/shorts/HuXu0X--hHQ

Usher appointment

Dan Doran has been appointed as head usher for the rest of 2025.

For a list of the people serving at Peace and all the ways they serve, please see the Peace team.

Making Easter worship more wonderful: Candle

We’re thinking to make our Easter worship more wonderful in a visual way: a paschal candle!

The Paschal Candle is a symbol of our Lord’s resurrection and His visible presence here on earth during the 40 days after Easter.

The candle is lighted from the new fire kindled at the beginning of the Easter services.

This Easter candle symbolizes many things:

  • Before the minister lights the candle, he draws a cross in the wax. Above the cross he inscribes a letter “A” and below it the letter “O”, the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. These symbolize that Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

  • Then he draws the year on the candle to signify that the risen Christ shall be a “pillar of fire” also in this year to lead us to the heavenly promised land.

  • There are wax nails put into the cross to symbolize the five wounds of Christ.  

After the Easter service, the Paschal candle is put next to the altar. It stands there and is light for all the services until the Ascension service.

On that day we extinguish it when we hear the words of the Gospel: “He was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God.” (Mark 16:19)”  (Adapted from What an Altar Guild Should Know, Paul H D Lang)

A Paschal candle is an affordable way ($150 - $200) to make our worship more beautiful. Here are some pictures. What do you think? Should we try one? Let me know.


Calendar

October 26th 9:30 service, 10:45 Voters’ meeting

October 30th 6:30 pm Bible study

November 1st 9:30 am Fall Work Day

November 2nd 9:30 am “Still Not Frozen” Reformation celebration and ice cream party

November 4th 10:00 am Craft time

November 4th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

November 9th 9:30 service, catechism

November 13th 12:00 pm Senior lunch and bingo

November 15th 9:30 am

November 16th 9:30 service, catechism

November 26th 6:30 pm Thanksgiving service

January 19-21st Lutheran Leadership Conference https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/lutheranleadership2026

July 14-17 Youth Rally









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

Please pray for the family of Mary Wright

 
 

Mary Wright

Dear family, friends, and acquaintances of Mary,

On Sunday, October 12th, Mary finished her earthly enjoyment of God and went on to eternal joy. Mary struggled mightily throughout her life, but discovered the immense joy available on the other side. Now she laughs forever.

I rejoice with Mary and all of God’s people because of his work. He defeated death, undid evil, and won people for God. He counts Mary and all who believe in him as fellow heirs of eternal life. I pray that you too are filled with joy as you wait for the fulfillment of his promises:

“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

Mary joined the people of God on earth through baptism on September 18, 2015. She followed up with a public profession of her faith and confirmation on April 20, 2016. She was well loved by her fellow Christians at Peace, in large part because she loved others. She sent many cards and texts to encourage and support people all the time. We were all happy to hear from her. She added a little joy to all the Bible studies, services, and gatherings she attended.

Funeral: Mary will receive a Christian funeral on Thursday, October 16th, at Peace Lutheran Church at 11:00 a.m. The service is open to the public. We gather to thank God for his goodness to Mary and encourage one another in our grief.

The service will be available via livestream for those who are unable to attend in person. Please see our site https://peaceotsego.org/worship or visit our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@peaceotsego. The service will be available shortly before 11:00 a.m. and be archived afterwards.

Visitation: Visitation will take place on October 16th from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church.

Interment: Mary will be interred privately at a later date.

Light meal: Everyone is welcome to enjoy a light meal immediately following the service at Peace starting around 12:00 pm.

Memorials: To give a memorial to Peace in honor of Mary, please go to https://peaceotsego.org/give and select “Memorial” or attend the funeral.

Obituary: Mary’s obituary is available online at https://www.winkelfuneralhome.com/obituaries/mary-wright

I invite you to gather with all of us to mourn and celebrate the victory Jesus gave to Mary. May Jesus give us eternal peace.

Serving the living Savior,

Pastor Nathaniel Timmermann

Please pray for Mary’s family

Lord Jesus, by your victory over death you have opened the way to eternal life for all of us. Comfort Mary’s family in their loss. Let their grief empty their souls of pain, hurt, and disappointment. Fill them up with new life. Renew their joy each morning. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

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 October 2nd

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Wow, I think of all we’re going through.

I’ve been sad and upset about the shooting this past Sunday in Grand Blanc. If you want to talk to someone, I’d be happy to talk with you.

We’re all forced to consider more carefully than we’d like the darkness, emptiness, and nothingness that fills the world. Be sure to keep up on our sermons on Genesis (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqhmPI4hdLA&list=PLJqdAdeyrHjd-UbVKIKN-LKZRWOqww5_V). You can subscribe on our Youtube page (https://www.youtube.com/@peaceotsego) or subscribe to our podcast.

I’m sad for the McNees family. Bill McNees passed away suddenly Monday morning.

I’m sure you’ve got your own challenges too. I’ve heard some of them. How important is Jesus’ prayer - “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” (John 17:15)

Friends, this week as we consider the beautiful world God has made for us (Genesis 1:3-25), hear Jesus’ prayer. May Jesus protect you.

See you Sunday at 9:30

Pastor T

Gospel Spotlight

Best moment of the week - a young man called and asked about our church. Didn’t know him from anyone. What a surprise! I pray God brings us together and I get to say to him again, God has done it all for you.

Where did you see the gospel at work this week?

Prayer Highlight

This week I invite you to pray for the family of Eda McNees on the passing of her husband Bill.

“Lord, we cry to you in our grief and sorrow. It might be a regular part of life in a sinful world, but that doesn’t mean it is good or enjoyable. We pray that you let our grief empty our souls of the trouble and pain, so that we can be filled again with your grace and love. Do this especially for Eda.

“In Jesus’ name we pray,

“Amen.”

Eda McNees and family on the passing of Bill McNees

Our sick or homebound friends - Frieda Walkley, Judy Haugh, Brenda Grimm, Shirley Kling, Darlene Syers, Irene Haas, Maxine Sandahl, and Marge Gavan

 

Campfire

October 10th 7:00 pm

Bible study

Last chance for a time for Bible study - what works for you? Add a time through the form or let me know. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/e7972897 or just reach out to me (269-694-6104).

Trail for Treaters

Our Trail for Treaters spot was really popular last year because of our photo spot. Remember it?

I want kids and families to enjoy a fun, safe, and not too spooky Halloween. We’re already under way!

  • The 2-3 people helping pass out candy have BACKED OUT. I’m looking for 2-3 people for that.

  • I’m looking for 2-3 people to put together and watch the picture spot.

Please get ahold of me and lets get it done to help a lot of people in our community! It’ll be downtown Otsego October 31st from 4 - 6 pm. Please reach out to me 269-694-6104.

Thankful With You

We’re going to have a special opportunity to be thankful together this Thanksgiving. So I want to invite you - what are you thankful for? I encourage you to think of something that might be a little unusual.

Calendar

October 5th 9:30 am Service and catechism

October 7th 10:00 Coffee and Craft Time

October 7th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

October 9th 12:00 pm CANCELLED Senior lunch

October 9th 10:00 Bill McNees visitation, 11:00 am McNees funeral, 12:00 McNees lunch

October 10th 7:00 pm Campfire

October 12th 9:30 am Service and catechism

October 17th 11:00 am Ladies Guild

October 17th 6:30 pm CANCELLED Bunco

October 26th 9:30 service, 10:45 Voters’ meeting

November 1st 9:30 am Fall Work Day

November 26th 6:30 pm Thanksgiving service

January 19-21st Lutheran Leadership Conference https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/lutheranleadership2026

July 14-17 Youth Rally







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 September 26th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Thanks for starting the fall with me! I’ve been glad to see our children study God’s Word, our Bible studies happening again, we’re getting going on fall outreach activities (Trail for Treaters, Hometown Christmas, and more), and groups are going - senior luncheon, Bunco, Ladies Guild, and more.

I hope you’ll get join with us in following Jesus and bringing others the gospel this fall. If I can help you do that, please let me know.

One thing I’d definitely like to do is to study God’s Word with you. We’re working on at least one new Bible study opportunity. Here is where we stand now:

If you want to help me figure out what to offer, feel free to fill out the form https://peace.breezechms.com/form/e7972897 or just reach out to me (269-694-6104). If you already filled out the form with your preferences, please only add your preferred time.

Thanks!

Pastor T


PS

Gospel Spotlight

I heard a really hard conversation this week with someone about work problems. A coworker was “lording over them” and “pretending to be more than they are”. They were arrogant and self-righteous, critical and sometimes cruel.

We talked about forgiveness and grace, of course.

But most important is this: that Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life for us. I had to assure this man that his worth, his value, and his significance did not come from this coworker or any other worker, but from Jesus who loved him so much that he gave his life for him. At one level, he needed to let everything this coworker did roll right off his back. At the same time, he had the chance to love his neighbor as he loved himself - to find her worth and value in something other than this criticism.

Where did you see the gospel at work this week?

Prayer Highlight

This week I’d like to encourage you especially to pray for Diana. Diana has gone through family problems for a long time leading up to a family break up right now. On top of that, she just found out her cousin is terminally ill.

“Gracious God, you let trouble and heartache into our lives. We suffer because of sin, we are disciplined because we have sinned, and we experience the awful consequences of sin - destruction and even death. We call out to you in these awful times. Lord, hear our prayer. We especially pray for Diana in her trouble. Come and help her in time of need. Be her refuge and strength.

In Jesus’ name we pray,

Amen.”

Sharon Ward and family on the passing of her brother John

Kurt and Breanna Ray on their wedding

Our sick or homebound friends - Frieda Walkley, Judy Haugh, Brenda Grimm, Shirley Kling, Darlene Syers, Irene Haas, Maxine Sandahl, and Marge Gavan

Carol Mason and Mike

 

Facility Sharing

We’ve started letting the general public know that we are making our facility available for some use.

“Are you looking for a space to use that has plenty of space inside and out, is flexible, and won't be a hassle? We're looking for a business or organization that would like to share (rent) our space long term. Give us a call please (269-694-6104) if you'd like to hear more.”

If you would like to suggest someone, reach out to them.

Thanks for the repairs!

Big thanks to the men for spending the time repairing our chairs. Thanks Roger, Joe, Paul, Pete, Al, Dan, Jim, and Bill


Campfire

October 10th 7:00 pm

Trail for Treaters

Our Trail for Treaters spot was really popular last year because of our photo spot. Remember it?

I want kids and families to enjoy a fun, safe, and not too spooky Halloween. We’re already under way!

  • I’ve got 2-3 people to gather and pass out candy. Thanks!

  • I’m looking for 2-3 people to put together and watch the picture spot.

Please get ahold of me and lets get it done to help a lot of people in our community! It’ll be downtown Otsego October 31st from 4 - 6 pm. Please reach out to me 269-694-6104.

Calendar

September 28th 9:30 am Service and catechism

October 5th 9:30 am Service and catechism

October 7th 10:00 Coffee and Craft Time

October 7th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

October 9th 12:00 pm Senior lunch

October 10th 7:00 pm Campfire

October 26th 9:30 service, 10:45 Voters’ meeting

November 26th 6:30 pm Thanksgiving service

January 19-21st Lutheran Leadership https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/lutheranleadership2026

July 14-17 Youth Rally







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 September 19th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

It’s fall and we’re getting back to gospel life together. What about you?

There are all kinds of ways to join with God’s people at Peace.

In him,

Pastor T

New Bible Study?

As part of our fall kick off, we’d like to start a new Bible study/small group.

When can we meet? Would you please let me know in the form below or on the same form at service this Sunday. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/e7972897 Thanks!

PS We just wrapped up a great series on “Vocation”. Missed it? Check out here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OK1NErJBGP4&list=PLJqdAdeyrHjdzbkUUQZrWosbw557XlwKJ

Prayers

Kurt and Breanna Ray

Marge Gavan

Carol Mason and Mike

Diana Myers

Frieda Walkley

Prayers for the people of Peace and the neighbors- how are your prayers going?

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 September 20th at 9:30 for our next talk in our Christian Theology series.

What do you think about Jesus?

Trail for Treaters

Our Trail for Treaters spot was really popular last year because of our photo spot. Remember it?

I’m looking for people to help this year.

  • 2-3 people to put together and man the picture spot

  • 2-3 people to gather and pass out candy

Please get ahold of me and lets get it done to meet a lot of people in our community!

It’ll be downtown Otsego October 31st from 4 - 6 pm. Please reach out to me 269-694-6104.

Calendar

September 20th 9:30 am Christian Theology

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home (no catechism)

October 7th 10:00 Coffee and Craft Time

October 7th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

October 9th 12:00 pm Senior lunch

October 26th 9:30 service, 10:45 Voters’ meeting

November 26th 6:30 pm Thanksgiving service

January 19-21st Lutheran Leadership https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/lutheranleadership2026

July 14-17 Youth Rally





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

Lutheran Leadership

Conference on Lutheran Leadership

January 19–21, 2026 Chicago, Illinois

The WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership is the gathering place for those who know that in our broken world and fragmented communities, gospel ministry matters now more than ever. It’s where inspiration meets implementation. Where a long-range vision becomes real-world action.

This conference is the flagship leadership event in WELS, helping shape the future of ministry by equipping attendees to lead with courage, clarity, curiosity, and compassion.

Join me for this great conference next year. Find out more at https://lutheranleadership.com/

Youth Rally 2026

Save the Date! WELS Youth Rally for high school students will be July 14th - 17th!


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

Youth Rally 2026

Youth Rally 2026

Save the Date! WELS Youth Rally for high school students will be July 14th - 17th!


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 September 12th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Who will you share the gospel with this fall?

The gospel is not information or advice. It is news.

Even if it is the best news in the world, it can be hard to share.

Our evangelism workshop develops the skills essential for every day gospel sharing:

  • noticing and enhancing spaces and places for gospel sharing

  • gospel sharing tools

  • personal coaching

Our next workshop is Saturday September 13th 9:30 am. It’s a chance to be filled with the gospel and share that gospel.

One hour. Refreshments provided. :-)

New Bible Study?

As part of our fall kick off, we’d like to start a new Bible study/small group.

I’d like to know your interest. Would you please let me know in the form below or on the same form at service this Sunday. Thanks!

We’d welcome more input in our 2026 ministry. You don’t have to fill out every question on the form. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40 Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year.

The council develop plans starting next week.

In him,

Pastor T

PS We just wrapped up a great series on “Vocation”. Missed it? Check out here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OK1NErJBGP4&list=PLJqdAdeyrHjdzbkUUQZrWosbw557XlwKJ

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 September 20th at 9:30 for our next talk in our Christian Theology series.

What do you think about Jesus?

Prayers

Marge Gavan

Carol Mason and Mike

Diana Myers

Frieda Walkley

Neveah and family

Prayers for the people of Peace and the neighbors- how are your prayers going?

Trail for Treaters

Our Trail for Treaters spot was really popular last year because of our photo spot. Remember it?

I’m looking for people to help this year. Please get ahold of me and lets get it done to meet a lot of people in our community!

It’ll be downtown Otsego October 31st from 4 - 6 pm. Please reach out to me 269-694-6104.

Conference on Lutheran Leadership

January 19–21, 2026 Chicago, Illinois

The WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership is the gathering place for those who know that in our broken world and fragmented communities, gospel ministry matters now more than ever. It’s where inspiration meets implementation. Where a long-range vision becomes real-world action.

This conference is the flagship leadership event in WELS, helping shape the future of ministry by equipping attendees to lead with courage, clarity, curiosity, and compassion.

Join me for this great conference next year. Find out more at https://lutheranleadership.com/

Youth Rally 2026

Save the Date! WELS Youth Rally for high school students will be July 14th - 17th!

Calendar

September 14th 9:30 am Service, catechism

September 19th 11:00 am Ladies Guild

September 19th 6:30 pm Bunco

September 20th 9:30 am Christian Theology

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home (no catechism)

October 7th 10:00 Coffee and Craft Time

October 7th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

October 9th 12:00 pm Senior lunch

October 26th 9:30 service, 10:45 Voters’ meeting

November 26th 6:30 pm Thanksgiving 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 September 3rd

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

What have you learned from this study of vocation?

And even better, how have you and your life changed?

God is at work in our lives and through us. Of that much I am sure.

We’re wrapping up our study on “vocation” this Sunday. Come with some conclusions to assess! If you’ve missed the rest of our study, you can find it all here.

In him,

Pastor T

PS Normally service would be outdoors this week - 1st Sunday! However, it is looking to be quite cool in the morning - 40s. If that is the case, service will be indoors.

Prayers

Marge Gavan

Carol Mason and Mike

Diana Myers

Frieda Walkley

Neveah and family

Prayers for the people of Peace and the neighbors- how are your prayers going?

New Bible Study?

As part of our fall kick off, we’d like to start a new Bible study/small group.

I’d like to know your interest. Would you please let me know in the form below or on the same form at service this Sunday. Thanks!

We’d welcome more input in our 2026 ministry. You don’t have to fill out every question on the form. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40 Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year.

The council develop plans starting next week.

We’ll be studying Genesis together - read it in advance!

Conference on Lutheran Leadership

January 19–21, 2026 Chicago, Illinois

The WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership is the gathering place for those who know that in our broken world and fragmented communities, gospel ministry matters now more than ever. It’s where inspiration meets implementation. Where a long-range vision becomes real-world action.

This conference is the flagship leadership event in WELS, helping shape the future of ministry by equipping attendees to lead with courage, clarity, curiosity, and compassion.

Join me for this great conference next year. Find out more at https://lutheranleadership.com/

Youth Rally 2026

Save the Date! WELS Youth Rally for high school students will be July 14th - 17th!

Prayer Chain

Need prayers? Send in a prayer request to Peace @ 269-694-6104.

Are you willing to add your prayers to God’s people? Join the prayer chain! Send Peace a message @ 269-694-6104.

We’re also looking for someone to coordinate the prayer chain. This person receives prayer requests, sends out prayer requests, and adds people to the prayer chain. If you’d like to serve God’s people in this way, let pastor know!

Calendar

September 7th 9:30 am Service, catechism

September 11th 12:00 pm Senior luncheon and bingo

September 13th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

September 14th 9:30 am Service, catechism

September 19th 11:00 am Ladies Guild

September 19th 6:30 pm Bunco

September 20th 9:30 am Christian Theology

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home

October 26th 9:30 service, 10:45 Voters’ meeting





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 August 28

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

A couple of years ago, we spent the summer studying “The Good Life”. What makes for a good, flourishing life? There are a couple of key things. After that study, I’m pretty convinced that investing in relationships, keeping up my social fitness, leaning on relationships when things go sideway, and practicing empathy toward my spouse will support a more flourishing life. If you want to learn more, check out the sermons from that series. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJqdAdeyrHjccEDKk_v9sbViOOp5owTay

I want to dig into that question again this week and ask an even bigger one - not, “what leads to my flourishing” but “what leads to the flourishing of all humanity?” God addresses that question this week.

Join me Sunday as we support genuine human flourishing.

In case you missed the note, I returned the call to serve at Ascension, Mitchell and Faith, Huron.

In him,

Pastor T

PS See you inside at 9:30!

Prayers

The Miller family

Marge Gavan

Carol Mason and Mike

Diana Myers

Frieda Walkley

Neveah and family

Prayers for the people of Peace and the neighbors- how are your prayers going?

Special Collection for Headstone

Friends, thank you for your generous gifts to take care of the remains of our brother in Christ, Don Knobloch. Together we were very quickly able to raise the funds to provide him with a headstone. It will be good to remember the grace God showed to Don until Christ returns.

Thank you! We’ll let you know as the headstone gets installed.

Site/Landscape Plan

We’re looking to develop a site and landscape plan pastor would like to work with a couple of people to present a plan first to the council, next to the congregation.

Are you interested in developing a plan? Please get ahold of pastor, 269-694-6104.

Ministry planning and budget

We could use a lot more people to send some input for 2026 ministry. You don’t have to fill out every question on the form. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40 Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year?

Love to talk with you about how God can work among us and through us these days!

Fall Kick Off

September 21st save the date!

Find a group, class, and event to part of. Walk with us and Jesus this fall!

Conference on Lutheran Leadership

January 19–21, 2026 Chicago, Illinois

The WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership is the gathering place for those who know that in our broken world and fragmented communities, gospel ministry matters now more than ever. It’s where inspiration meets implementation. Where a long-range vision becomes real-world action.

This conference is the flagship leadership event in WELS, helping shape the future of ministry by equipping attendees to lead with courage, clarity, curiosity, and compassion.

Join me for this great conference next year. Find out more at https://lutheranleadership.com/

Voters’ Meeting

Our fall voters’ meeting to plan ministry for 2026 will be October 26th. Please plan to be there!

Prayer Chain

Need prayers? Send in a prayer request to Peace @ 269-694-6104.

Are you willing to add your prayers to God’s people? Join the prayer chain! Send Peace a message @ 269-694-6104.

We’re also looking for someone to coordinate the prayer chain. This person receives prayer requests, sends out prayer requests, and adds people to the prayer chain. If you’d like to serve God’s people in this way, let pastor know!

Calendar

August 31st 9:30 am Service, no catechism

September 2nd 10:00 am Coffee and Craft Time

September 2nd 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

September 7th 9:30 am Service, catechism

September 11th 12:00 pm Senior luncheon and bingo

September 13th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

September 19th 11:00 am Ladies Guild

September 19th 6:30 pm Bunco

September 20th 9:30 am Christian Theology

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home

October 26th 9:30 service, 10:45 Voters’ meeting





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 August 22

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

God says two things to us about spiritual struggle and warfare:

First he says, “12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms”. “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation”. “Fight the good fight of faith”. He tells us to struggle and fight against the spiritual forces in the world. Even after the resurrection of Jesus, we fight on.

At the same time he confidently says, “15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. “Hebrews 2:14 – Through death, Jesus destroyed “the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil.”

So how do we know when to fight and when to say, “The struggle is done!”.

In our vocations.

  • July 27th - 1st Vocation: faith and prayer 1 Timothy 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHtrjtuIwVI

  • August 10th - “Vocation is the setting for God’s work in the world” - 1 Timothy 3, 5 https://youtu.be/JgAVSQQVz6o?si=GKT3IF-VJrIiMcWP

  • August 24th - “Vocation is also the setting for spiritual warfare” 1 Timothy 4th

  • August 31st - “Vocation is the setting for human flourishing. God provides us with purpose, freedom, security” - 1 Timothy 6:17-19

  • September 7th - Vocation: Conclusion

Please remember I’m deliberating another divine call - encouragements welcome.

In him,

Pastor T

PS See you inside at 9:30!

The Christian funeral of Ron Miller

Ron’s funeral will take place Saturday at 11 am, visitation at 10:00 with lunch to follow. Please come declare God’s goodness to this Christian man.

https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/millerron

Prayers

The Miller family

Marge Gavan

Carol Mason and Mike

Diana Myers

Frieda Walkley

Neveah and family

Prayers for the people of Peace and the neighbors- how are your prayers going?

Special Collection for Headstone

Our brother in Christ, Don Knobloch, passed away in 2022. The family has been unable to procure a headstone to mark his burial for financial reasons. We’re going to take up a small collection for this headstone. If you’d like to donate, please give a cash or check marked “Don Knobloch” or give online with “Don Knobloch” in the comments.

Native Prairie/Pollinator Habitat Update

Noticed the developing pollinator habitat? It looks great! I’ve seen a ton of bees on it; they’re loving it.

You may have noticed the black plastic near the road in the field. That is the next section to plant flowers. We’re killing the weeds and grass with the plastic. This fall, we’ll collect seeds from our plants and spread them over the fresh dirt.

Thanks to the Powells for their ongoing work to develop this space!

Site/Landscape Plan

We’re looking to develop a site and landscape plan pastor would like to work with a couple of people to present a plan first to the council, next to the congregation.

Are you interested in developing a plan? Please get ahold of pastor, 269-694-6104.

Ministry planning and budget

We could use a lot more people to send some input for 2026 ministry. You don’t have to fill out every question on the form. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40 Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year?

Love to talk with you about how God can work among us and through us these days!

Fall Kick Off

September 21st save the date!

Calendar

August 22nd 6:30 pm CANCELLED Family Game Night

August 23rd 9:30 am CANCELLED - Christian Theology

August 23rd 10:00 am Ron Miller visitation

August 23rd 11:00 am Ron Miller funeral

August 23rd 11:45 am Funeral luncheon

August 24th 9:30 service, catechism

August 31st 9:30 am Service, no catechism

September 2nd 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

September 7th 9:30 am Service, catechism

September 13th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home





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

Please pray for the family of Ron Miller

 
 

Ronald Miller

Dear family, friends, and acquaintances of Ron,

On Tuesday, August 19th, Ronald A Miller finished glorifying God with his life here and joined the triumphant saints. He now basks in the eternal glory of the Triune God. Ron primarily loved to glorify God with his singing and music. He can sing anything he wants with the heavenly choir.

I rejoice with all of God’s people because of Jesus’ work for Ron. He defeated death, undid evil, and won people for God. In him, Ron too has all of God’s gifts and an eternal inheritance. I pray that you are comforted as you wait for the glory of God:

“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” (1 Peter 5:4)

Ron joined the people of God on earth through baptism on January 22nd, 1939. He was confirmed on May 1st, 1953. Since 1977, he has been part of the people of God gathered at Peace in Otsego. He was well-known for his enjoyment of God’s Word, his love of music, and his willingness to help in really any way needed. He showed up for all kinds of Bible studies, special services, work meetings, and congregational meetings and usually had something to say.

Funeral: Ron will receive a Christian funeral on Saturday, August 23rd, at Peace Lutheran Church at 11:00 a.m. The service is open to the public. We gather to thank God for his goodness to Ron and encourage one another in our grief.

The service will be available via livestream for those who are unable to attend in person. Please see our site https://peaceotsego.org/worship or visit our YouTube page Peace Lutheran Church - YouTube. The service will be available a little bit before 11:00 a.m. and be archived afterwards.

Visitation: Visitation will take place on August 23rd from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church.

Interment: Ron will be interred later at Oak Hill Cemetery in Horicon, WI. https://www.horiconwi.gov/260/Oak-Hill-Cemetery

Light meal: Everyone is welcome to enjoy a light meal immediately following the service at Peace.

Memorials: To give a memorial to Peace in honor of Ron, please go to https://peaceotsego.org/give and select “Memorial” or attend the funeral.

Obituary: Ron’s obituary is available online at https://www.winkelfuneralhome.com/obituaries/ronald-miller

I invite you to gather with all of us to mourn and celebrate the victory Jesus gave to Ron. May Jesus give us eternal peace.

Serving the living Savior,

Pastor Nathaniel Timmermann

Please pray for Ron’s family, particularly Ellen and Gwen

Lord Jesus, by your victory over death you have opened the way to eternal life for all of us. Comfort Ron’s family in their loss. Let their grief empty their souls of pain, hurt, and disappointment. Fill them up with new life. Renew their joy each morning. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Good news for Peace for August 14

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

I see God at work in all kinds of roles or stations or vocations we occupy:

  • I see a sister encouraging and supporting her sister as she considers the gospel

  • I see a friend confronting her friend

  • I see a husband not quitting on his wife no matter her physical challenges

  • I see a sister in law rebuking her sister

  • I see a young man leading his fiance to Christianity and a Christian marriage

It’s all over the place. God works through us in our vocations or roles in life. Let’s keep this up!

  • July 27th - 1st Vocation: faith and prayer 1 Timothy 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHtrjtuIwVI

  • August 10th - “Vocation is the setting for God’s work in the world” - 1 Timothy 3, 5 https://youtu.be/JgAVSQQVz6o?si=GKT3IF-VJrIiMcWP

  • August 24th - “Vocation is also the setting for spiritual warfare” 1 Timothy 4th

  • August 31st - “Vocation is the setting for human flourishing. God provides us with purpose, freedom, security” - 1 Timothy 6:17-19

  • September 7th - Vocation: Conclusion

Please remember I’m deliberating another divine call - encouragements welcome.

In him,

Pastor T

PS See you inside at 9:30!


Prayers

Marge Gavan

Carol Mason and Mike

Diana Myers

Ron Miller

Frieda Walkley

Neveah and family

Prayers for the people of Peace and the neighbors- how are your prayers going?

Special Collection for Headstone

Our brother in Christ, Don Knobloch, passed away in 2022. The family has been unable to procure a headstone to mark his burial for financial reasons. We’re going to take up a small collection for this headstone. If you’d like to donate, please give a cash or check marked “Don Knobloch” or give online with “Don Knobloch” in the comments.

Parking Lot Repair

We got the parking lot repaired this week. Thanks for your help.

What’s next?

Ministry planning and budget

We could use a lot more people to send some input for 2026 ministry. You don’t have to fill out every question on the form. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40 Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year?

Love to talk with you about how God can work among us and through us these days!

The Peace Team

Peace isn’t that big; still it can be hard to know who does what. Check out the list below and for a full list see https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/team

Council

President/Chairman………..… Josh Gower

Vice-president/Treasurer …… vacant

Recording Secretary ………….. Michael Grimm

Elder ……………………………..... Terry Brower

Called/hired positions

Pastor ………………….. Nathaniel Timmermann

Musicians ……………. Cindy Commissaris, Nathaniel Timmermann, Helga Harris, Ellise Wedge

Pastoral assistants …… Tom Wright

Appointed positions

Financial Secretary …… Ralph Holewa

Maintenance coordinator ………. Roger Commissaris

Bookkeeper …………….… Andy Winter

HR/Taxes ………………..… Jim Walkley

Fall Kick Off

September 21st save the date!

Calendar

August 17th 9:30 service, no catechism

August 22nd 6:30 Family Game Night

August 23rd 9:30 am Christian Theology

August 24th 9:30 service, catechism

September 13th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home





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 August 7

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Thanks for a great carnival! We had a great time and got to meet a few families from the area. Thanks for being friendly and thanks for making it happen!

We want to know the people of Otsego-Plainwell. https://nathanieltimmermann.podbean.com/e/we-want-to-know-you/

I’m excited to get back to our study of vocation. Hope God has been at work through your life these days.

  • July 27th - 1st Vocation: faith and prayer 1 Timothy 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHtrjtuIwVI

  • August 10th - “Vocation is the setting for God’s work in the world” - 1 Timothy 3, 5

  • August 24th - “Vocation is also the setting for spiritual warfare” 1 Timothy 4th

  • August 31st - “Vocation is the setting for human flourishing. God provides us with purpose, freedom, security” - 1 Timothy 6:17-19

  • September 7th - Vocation: Conclusion

I also want to let you know that I have received a divine call to serve at Ascension Lutheran Church in Mitchell SD and Faith Lutheran Church, Huron SD (dual parish). We'll have a short discussion of my current call to serve at Peace and a the call I hold to South Dakota after service on Sunday before the quick voters’ meeting.

Keep prayiong and living that first vocation of faith. God be with you.

In him,

Pastor T

PS See you inside at 9:30!


Prayers

Ron Miller

Marge Gavan

Neveah and family

Prayers for the people of Peace and the neighbors 0- how are your prayers going?

Special Collection for Headstone

Our brother in Christ, Don Knobloch, passed away in 2022. The family has been unable to procure a headstone to mark his burial for financial reasons. We’re going to take up a small collection for this headstone. If you’d like to donate, please give a cash or check marked “Don Knobloch” or give online with “Don Knobloch” in the comments.

Parking Lot Repair

You may have noticed that parts of the parking lot are breaking down. The council recommends the congregation use some special funds (about $5,000 from the Building and Grounds dedicated funds) to repair the lot. There will be a special voters’ meeting soon (announced Sunday) to authorize the use of special funds.

If you want the quotes, you can find them in this document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eNE9BKXGSMpb2mBHWn2LtjrB3JpomGuwsb70zV64Zhg/edit?usp=sharing

Ministry planning and budget

We could use a lot more people to send some input for 2026 ministry. You don’t have to fill out every question on the form. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40 Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year?

Love to talk with you about how God can work among us and through us these days!

The Peace Team

Peace isn’t that big; still it can be hard to know who does what. Check out the list below and for a full list see https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/team

Council

President/Chairman………..… Josh Gower

Vice-president/Treasurer …… vacant

Recording Secretary ………….. Michael Grimm

Elder ……………………………..... Terry Brower

Called/hired positions

Pastor ………………….. Nathaniel Timmermann

Musicians ……………. Cindy Commissaris, Nathaniel Timmermann, Helga Harris, Ellise Wedge

Pastoral assistants …… Tom Wright

Appointed positions

Financial Secretary …… Ralph Holewa

Maintenance coordinator ………. Roger Commissaris

Bookkeeper …………….… Andy Winter

HR/Taxes ………………..… Jim Walkley

Calendar

August 10th 9:30 Service

August 10th 10:40 fast voter’s meeting regarding parking lot repair

August 10th 10:45 Catechism

August 17th 9:30 service, no catechism

August 22nd 6:30 Family Game Night

August 23rd 9:30 am Christian Theology

August 24th 9:30 service, catechism

September 13th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home





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 August 1

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Friendship Sunday Carnival

Let's be friends.

Look forward to seeing you and your friends, neigbors this weekend at a chill community carnival!

Sunday August 3rd from 10:30 - 12:30 (all are welcome to the service at 9:30 too!)

Dunk Tank


Bounce House

Cruise In

We'll have food, a cruise-in, games, bingo, andd a bounce house!

No cost, come make some friends!

Jesus says, I no longer call you servants but friends

Share with your friends! https://www.facebook.com/share/1CEWd7U4qZ/

Run!

The Otsego Ready or Not 5K kicks off the fall running season. If we put together a team, we can enter the fastest church competition!

August 2nd 8:00 am! Only $30. https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

Parking Lot Repair

You may have noticed that parts of the parking lot are breaking down. The council recommends the congregation use some special funds to repair the lot. There will be a special voters’ meeting soon (announced Sunday) to authorize the use of special funds.

Ministry planning and budget

Pastor, the staff, and the council is preparing the ministry activities and arrangement for next year.

We’d love input as we figure this out - feel free to let us know on this form https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40

Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year?

Love to talk with you about how God can work among us and through us these days!

Calendar

August 2nd 8:00 am Otsego Ready or Not 5K https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

August 3rd 9:30 Friendship Sunday service and Carnival (10:30)

August 5th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

August 10th 9:30 Service

August 10th 10:40 fast voter’s meeting regarding parking lot repair

August 10th 10:45 Catechism

August 22nd 6:30 Family Game Night

August 23rd 9:30 am Christian Theology

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home





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

The Peace team

Team

Each of us plays an important role in the gospel ministry of Peace Lutheran Church. We’d love to work with you to help you use the gifts and talents you have to serve people.

Positions marked “vacant” are positions required by the bylaws or policies. We should fill them. We also desire to move beyond the minimum required to do the ministry God has put before us.

Council

President/Chairman………..… Josh Gower

Vice-president/Treasurer …… vacant

Recording Secretary ………….. Michael Grimm

Elder ……………………………..... Terry Brower

Called/hired positions

Pastor ………………….. Nathaniel Timmermann

Musicians ……………. Cindy Commissaris, Nathaniel Timmermann, Helga Harris, Ellise Wedge, Angela Grimm

Pastoral assistants …… Tom Wright

Appointed positions

Financial Secretary …… Ralph Holewa

Bookkeeper …………….… Andy Winter

HR/Taxes ………………..… Jim Walkley

Worship

Head usher ……….….... Ron Miller

Ushers ………………..…..managed by sign up

AV team ……………….… Charlie Kling, Clara Timmermann, Ellise Wedge, Nathaniel Timmermann

Cantor …………………….

Communion coordinator … Eda McNees, Carlene Ketner

Flowers coordinator ………

Missions and service

Christian Neighbors coordinator …….. Irv and Judy Bolenbaugh

Care Team ……………………… Debi Seales, Jo Markwart

Ramp It Up coordinator …………….……. Jon Ott

Prayer chain coordinator ……………..…

Trunk or Treat coordinator ……………….

Devotional booklets ……………………….

Giving Tree coordinator (2023) ………… Jane Holewa

Tree of Warmth coordinator (2023) ….. Stephen and Betsy Powell, Joan Retberg

Christmas decorating………….……….... Eda McNees

Education/Discipleship

Sunday School superintendent/Education coordinator…… Vacant

0-3/Cradle roll …………………………………….vacant

K – 5 Teachers ………………………………….. Laurie Brower, Sarah Gower, Macayla Wright, Rachel Timmermann

131 Youth Crew (middle school/high school) …. vacant

Ladies Guild ………………………………..……. Jane Holewa (president), Cindy Hunt (treasurer), and Cindy Commissaris (secretary).

Finances

Counters ………. Ralph Holewa (head counter), Jane Holewa, Jim Winkel, Sharon Ward, Helga Harris

Maintenance and facility

Maintenance coordinator …….. Roger Commissaris

Lawnmower coordinator ……... vacant

Maintenance team ………………Roger Commissaris, Paul Retberg, Pete Weyenberg, Jim Winkel, Joe Olivares

Mowing team ……………………..Managed by sign up

Cleaners ……………………….…… Managed by sign up

Heat/AC manager ……………..

Administration

Mail box items ……….

Fellowship/Fun

Funeral lunch coordinator …………………. Cindy Hunt

Senior luncheon/outing ………………….…. Jeanne Myers

Lunch bunch ………………………………………Jane Holewa

Ongoing ways to serve

These are not formal positions; you can do this work at any time by contacting the contact.

Outreach calls/contacts …..Nathaniel Timmermann

Spiritual growth/attendance contacts …. Nathaniel Timmermann

Education …………………Nathaniel Timmermann

Lawn mowing ……………

Usher …………………………

Cleaning ……………………Jane Holewa

AV team (sound, lights, slides) …. Nathaniel Timmermann

Cleaners

Slides and AV

Clara Timmermann, Michael Grimm, Ellise Wedge

Other opportunities for service/ways for us to grow

Evangelism and outreach coordinator

AV coordinator

Tech coordinator

Attendance taker

Directory update

VBS coordinator

Historian

Children’s educators/teachers

Member storyteller

Sign changer

Social media manager,

AV team

Birthday and anniversary list distribution

Volunteer coordinator

Small group teachers

Sender/communicator

Plant and care for flowers ……… Pam Larson

Good news for Peace for July 24

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

What do you want to do with your life?

I love how when Paul tells Timothy to “fight the battle well, 19 holding on to faith and a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:18-19), he goes on to tell different groups of people how to live: worshippers, elders, widows, wives, and slaves. Christian faith looks like different things in different lives.

I’m inviting you this summer to “fight the battle” and “pursue righteousness, goodness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness” no matter what your life looks like now - husband or wife, single man, single woman, son, daughter, widow, student, employee, manager, or owner. Each week we’ll take a new step in living in faith, no matter where God has placed us.

We’ll be walking through 1 Timothy and Michael Berg’s book, “Vocation: The Setting for Human Flourishing”. I encourage you to read 1 Timothy to prepare, and if you have a chance, check out Berg’s book. https://online.nph.net/vocation-the-setting-for-human-flourishing.html

  • July 20th - Vocation -1 Timothy 1:12-20 https://youtu.be/KYez1s3EQ9o

  • July 27th - 1st Vocation: faith and prayer 1 Timothy 2

  • August 10th - “Vocation is the setting for God’s work in the world” - 1 Timothy 3, 5

  • August 24th - “Vocation is also the setting for spiritual warfare” 1 Timothy 4th

  • August 31st - “Vocation is the setting for human flourishing. God provides us with purpose, freedom, security” - 1 Timothy 6:17-19

  • September 7th - Vocation: Conclusion

Game Night tonight (Friday) at 6:30

Bring a game, enjoy some snacks (you can bring those too if you want, and come play!

Encouragement regarding Sexuality

The council of Peace knows that we have many questions about sexuality. For that reason, we have prepared a brief encouragement statement on sexuality. It is our intention to provide guidance to God’s people connected to Peace on this topic.

We’d like to discuss this statement with you before we ratify it and release it. Please pick up a copy from the next steps table or contact the church office. What could be improved? What is good? What needs works? Please let us know.

Questions and suggestions can be directed to pastor, who will bring them to the council.

Thank you!

 

Native Prairie Habitat

Have you seen the little planting bed between the pavilion and barn? It is looking good!

This is the beginning of a native prairie habitat that we are looking make in at least part of the field. We’ll have some signs up and start killing some of the grass and weeds in the coming weeks. Enjoy!

Friendship Sunday Carnival

Let's be friends.

People of Otsego, Plainwell and beyond are invited to a chill community carnival on Sunday August 3rd from 10:30 - 12:30 (all are welcome to the service at 9:30 too!)

We'll have food, a cruise-in, games, bingo, andd a bounce house!

No cost, come make some friends!

Jesus says, I no longer call you servants but friends

Share with your friends! https://www.facebook.com/share/1CEWd7U4qZ/

Run!

The Otsego Ready or Not 5K kicks off the fall running season. If we put together a team, we can enter the fastest church competition!

August 2nd 8:00 am! Only $30. https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

Parking Lot Repair

You may have noticed that parts of the parking lot are breaking down. The council recommends the congregation use some special funds to repair the lot. There will be a special voters’ meeting soon (announced Sunday) to authorize the use of special funds.

Ministry planning and budget

Pastor, the staff, and the council is preparing the ministry activities and arrangement for next year.

We’d love input as we figure this out - feel free to let us know on this form https://peace.breezechms.com/form/bdad40

Or talk with pastor by email, text etc with suggestions, thoughts, questions, and ideas for ministry next year?

Love to talk with you about how God can work among us and through us these days!

Giving to Bring the Gospel

We’ve been sharing this chart with you for the last year plus. We hope it helps you understand the congregation’s final position.

Any questions or comments?

The council has noticed a couple of things:

  • First, thanks for the increased gifts! Gifts are up about 4% compared to last year.

  • Second, we expect to have enough cash (unrestricted assets) to make it through the year.

  • Third, we are still in a long term trend of gifts falling short of expenses. We’ll have more information about this year and the outlook for next year as we get to the end of the year.

Calendar

July 25th 6:30 Family Game Night

July 27th 9:30 service and catechism

August 2nd 8:00 am Otsego Ready or Not 5K https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

August 3rd 9:30 Friendship Sunday service and Carnival (10:30)

August 5th 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

August 23rd 9:30 am Christian Theology

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home





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 July 17th

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

What do you want to do with your life?

I love how when Paul tells Timothy to “fight the battle well, 19 holding on to faith and a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:18-19), he goes on to tell different groups of people how to live: worshippers, elders, widows, wives, and slaves. Christian faith looks like different things in different lives.

I’m inviting you this summer to “fight the battle” and “pursue righteousness, goodness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness” no matter what your life looks like now - husband or wife, single man, single woman, son, daughter, widow, student, employee, manager, or owner. Each week we’ll take a new step in living in faith, no matter where God has placed us.

We’ll be walking through 1 Timothy and Michael Berg’s book, “Vocation: The Setting for Human Flourishing”. I encourage you to read 1 Timothy to prepare, and if you have a chance, check out Berg’s book. https://online.nph.net/vocation-the-setting-for-human-flourishing.html

  • Are we called to do or be? 1 Timothy 1:12-20

See you Sunday at 9:30 outside (weather permitting)!

Encouragement regarding Sexuality

The council of Peace knows that we have many questions about sexuality. For that reason, we have prepared a brief encouragement statement on sexuality. It is our intention to provide guidance to God’s people connected to Peace on this topic.

We’d like to discuss this statement with you before we ratify it and release it. Please pick up a copy from the next steps table or contact the church office. What could be improved? What is good? What needs works? Please let us know.

Questions and suggestions can be directed to pastor, who will bring them to the council.

Thank you!

Friendship Sunday Carnival

Let's be friends.

People of Otsego, Plainwell and beyond are invited to a chill community carnival on Sunday August 3rd from 10:30 - 12:30 (all are welcome to the service at 9:30 too!)

We'll have food, a cruise-in, games, bingo, andd a bounce house!

No cost, come make some friends!

Jesus says, I no longer call you servants but friends

Share with your friends! https://www.facebook.com/share/1CEWd7U4qZ/

Run!

The Otsego Ready or Not 5K kicks off the fall running season. If we put together a team, we can enter the fastest church competition!

August 2nd 8:00 am! Only $30. https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

Calendar

July 19th 9:30 am Christian Theology

July 20th 9:30 service and catechism

July 25th 6:30 Family Game Night

August 2nd 8:00 am Otsego Ready or Not 5K https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

August 3rd 9:30 Friendship Sunday and Carnival (10:30)

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home





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 July 3rd

Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

Happy Independence Day!

Christians know freedom is good and we love it.

God says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17) A spirit cannot be stopped by boundaries and limitations. It is free in the sense that it can go where it wants and do what it wants. God is free like that, since he is spirit.

Christians have this true freedom “because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free” (Romans 8:2). Jesus has fulfilled the law for us and given us the Holy Spirit. In the same way the Holy Spirit is free to conform to his own essence, so are we. We aren't dependent on a nation or state or country or political figure or speaker or therapist or anyone else. We aren’t constrained by arbitrary rules and boundaries.

We are still physical creatures and live in certain countries. We are limited by the laws of time, space, and country. Nevertheless, in our spirit, with the Spirit, we are free like no one else.

Friends, this 4th, use your freedom to set others free. Give them the Spirit so they can be free. Share the Word. Give the gospel. Live with grace. Let us be free.

And use your freedom with the rest of us to set people free. Be an active part of Peace. Serve your fellow Christians and the people who live around us. Our freedom should be a blessing.

Don't abuse your freedom. Don't use it to avoid God and his Word. Read his Word daily. Pay careful attention to what he says.

This weekend, practice your freedom in real ways. I'll see you Sunday to celebrate with you.

Have a happy 4th of July! How will you celebrate this great day? Let me know! (outdoor service weather permitting this Sunday).

Congregational Forum and Voters’ Meeting

The congregation held a special voters’ meeting this past Sunday. We conducted a number of small business matters but chiefly focused on facility sharing.

After discussion, the congregation voted to pursue facility sharing.

What this means is that we are beginning to actively consider other organizations who might like to use our facility alongside the congregation. We are not looking for another church. We had an initial long list of nonprofits, white collar businesses, daycares, preschools, and more.

We’ll share more in the coming weeks and if you have a question please ask! For more information see the notes linked in the agenda. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oTfqV4lJPSP_N9sdOTUivv5-iBJnttFX_3veO7Q5L1k/edit?tab=t.0

All members of Peace may sign up to receive regular notices regarding our gospel work at https://peace.breezechms.com/form/62dd85

Native Prairie

As we look at the future of this site and facility, we’re considering what to do with the field. For a few reasons, we are not looking to sell it (although we can reconsider that often) and are testing out a more “native prairie” style of habitat.

There is plenty of information available about native prairies. Western Michigan University has tested one. https://wmich.edu/asylumlake/ecology/restore We are not committed to one, but are exploring it.

We are interested in what is in the “seed bank”. For this reason, we are currently not mowing the field. Later this fall, we’ll see what has grown and what could develop. We hope to have something of a site and facility plan this fall.

Would you please help pastor and the council on a site plan focused on the landscape? Please reach out to pastor and the council. Thanks! https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JO-N5PPcvyOz8JiWcnpncqZsfvuGB149z2y3e0h7TlQ/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.6wd8oorhx0td




Ramp installed

Thanks to the ramp crew for the recent ramp installation!

Would you like us to help out someone with a ramp? Help them get to church and family life? We’d be happy to help.

Please reach out to the office.

Friendship Sunday Carnival

Let's be friends.

People of Otsego, Plainwell and beyond are invited to a chill community carnival on Sunday August 3rd from 10:30 - 12:30 (all are welcome to the service at 9:30 too!)

We'll have food, a cruise-in, games, bingo, andd a bounce house!

No cost, come make some friends!

Jesus says, I no longer call you servants but friends

Share with your friends! https://www.facebook.com/share/1CEWd7U4qZ/

Run!

The Otsego Ready or Not 5K kicks off the fall running season. If we put together a team, we can enter the fastest church competition!

August 2nd 8:00 am! Only $30. https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

Calendar

July 6th 9:30 am Service

July 19th 9:30 am Christian Theology

July 20th 9:30 service and catechism

July 25th 6:30 Family Game Night

August 2nd 8:00 am Otsego Ready or Not 5K https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Otsego/OtsegoReadyorNot5K

August 3rd 9:30 Friendship Sunday and Carnival (10:30)

September 21st 9:30 am Fall kick off/Welcome Home





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