Good news from for Peace September 10, 2020

For great is your love, reaching to the heavens, your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Psalm 57:10

Dear friend,

When life is messy, complicated, and confusing, what guides your choices?

My basic go to? “It’ll get better before you (get married, get a job, or go to Jesus)”.

If I’m having a problem understanding other people, someone usually says, “God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason.”

If I can’t seem to get stuff right, I say, “We learn wisdom from failure much more than success.”

If I can’t understand the ladies in my life, I usually resort to “men are like waffles, women are like spaghetti.”

Where do you turn? What wisdom guides the choices of your life? God’s Word is full of wisdom to lead us to a good life. Over the next few weeks, we’ll look at stories and events from the Bible that lead us to the wisdom of the good life.

Services at 9 indoor and 10:45 outdoor!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

• Class for students PreK4-5th grade

• Every Sunday at 9:15 (during the service)

• In the large room with lots (20+ feet) of distance

• Grouped by household

• Young children who need help should be accompanied by a parent or grandparent

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The Winter family, Trevor, and Caitlynn

• The Becker family

• Fall gospel ministry

  Other notes

• September Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices

• Correction to September calendar - 10:45 am worship time begins September 13th

• Fall 2020 ministry plan - full version

• Fall 2020 usher guidelines

  I’m studying and you could try……

• Don’t Sing Songs to a Heavy Heart by Ken Haugh

• Marriage Moments - marriage encouragement and refreshment - subscribe

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• September 13th Fall kick-off!

• October 11th, 6:00 pm 131 Youth Crew Oktoberfest (middle school high school appropriate)

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

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Good news from for Peace September 3, 2020

The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever. Isaiah 32:17

Dear friend,

The man’s name is Dennis. He spent many of his years in the most elite fighting units of our country. He was an unbeliever and his highest purpose was the mission, his friends, and his survival.

When he left the military, he lost that sense of purpose and meaning. His life spiraled out of control - depression, alcohol, drugs, and suicide. Years later a severely handicapped man named Justin told him the gospel. For the first time, it really meant something to him.

Years after that, he was part of a thriving ministry, constantly seeking a new purpose and meaning in life. He was no longer spiraling down. He was watching and waiting for the next step God was letting him take.

Who is Jesus? It’s the most important question in life. This week, we’ll answer Jesus’ question. It will make all the difference for our community.

Can’t wait to worship with you, hear God’s Word, and praise him! Sunday at 9:00 am indoors, 10:30 outdoors!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

P.S. We’ll be giving away a copy of “The Chosen”, the new series, to one attendee to better answer the question!

Fall Ministry beginning September 13th

Our fall ministry will soon be here! Can’t wait to worship and follow Jesus with you!

1. Worship will be 9:00 am inside or 10:45 outdoors; Communion also served weekly Wednesday at 7:15 pm

2. Education for children Prek4-5th grade at 9:15 am in the large room.

3. Discipleship and growth for adults Sunday at 8:00 am on-site, Wednesday at 6:30 pm on-site, and Thursday 6:30 pm online!

4. Other groups paused for now

5. Non-ministerial facility use is limited.

6. We ask and encourage everyone to follow local guidelines.

Communication

We would like to stay in touch but only in ways you find helpful. You can sign up at the link below. If you have already filled out the form don’t worry about it unless you want to update or change your preferences. If you have anything you would like to communicate with everyone please contact church@peaceotsego.org or 269-694-6104.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Thanksgiving for Gordon Haas’ surgery, went well

• David and Linda Becker, a memorial for their son Thomas

• Trevor and Kaitlynn, grief over Brantley; Andy and Trish Winter

• Carolyn Miner, Maxine Sandahl, and Larry Thompson

  Other notes

• September Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices

• Correction to September calendar - 10:45 am worship time begins September 13th

• Fall 2020 ministry plan - full version

• Fall 2020 usher guidelines

  I’m studying and you could try……

• Joe Carter, Vince Han - a dialogue on who Jesus is “Who do you say I am”

• “The Chosen” - TV series on Jesus

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• September 13th Fall kick-off!

• October 11th, 6:00 pm 131 Youth Crew Oktoberfest (middle school high school appropriate)

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

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Good news from for Peace August 28, 2020

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Dear friend,

God really does the best job equipping us to live well with the people around us. We …

• forgive and don’t oppress

• spend generously

• share sustenance that actually satisfies

• are courageous

But what if that person is just a really tough person to like? Can you, I, we, love the unlovable?

Looking forward to worshiping with you as we grow to love even the people that are hard to like (and love!)

Apologies for the audio problem last week. You can watch the service again (click here) with the audio fixed. God willing it won’t happen this week.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Fall Ministry beginning September 13th

Our fall ministry will soon be here! Can’t wait to worship and follow Jesus with you!

Last week we shared worship information with you.

Worship

Sunday 9:00 am on-site or online

Sunday 10:45 am outdoors

Wednesday 6:30 pm communion served weekly after study (about 7:10 pm)

Communion will be served the 2nd and 4th Sundays with prepackaged kits.

Discipleship/education

Sunday 8:00 am study group

Wednesday 6:30 pm study group

Children’s education and adult education information coming next week!

Catechism returns to a once a month schedule

Other notes

Choir, Ladies Guild, and Senior Outing will not meet until further notice.

We won’t initially serve snacks after services.

We clean and disinfect high touch areas like doors and bathrooms weekly. We are not able to disinfect wood pews.

Flowers are welcome for the altar. Sign up on the bulletin board at church.

Communication

We would like to stay in touch but only in ways you find helpful. You can sign up at the link below. If you have already filled out the form don’t worry about it unless you want to update or change your preferences. If you have anything you would like to communicate with everyone please contact church@peaceotsego.org or 269-694-6104.

Facility use

Non-ministerial use of the building (including family events like parties) is limited; please bring requests to pastor or council for review.

Please do your best to follow state and local guidelines regarding masks, distancing, and other hygiene. Feel free to discuss your situation with pastor or a council member.

Thank you! Can’t wait to bring people the gospel.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Marilyn Sipple, sister of Carolyn Miner, Maxine Sandahl, and Larry Thompson - hospice care in her final days

• Janice Rockhoff - back surgery

• Brantley, grandson of Andy and Trish Winter - premature birth

• Gordon Haas’ - thyroid surgery

  Other notes

• September Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices

• Correction to September calendar - 10:45 am worship time begins September 13th.

  I’m studying and you could try……

• Rahab, a story of judgment

• Replicate Journal - a Bible reading journal I’m trying out

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• September 13th Fall kick-off!

• October 11th, 6:00 pm 131 Youth Crew Oktoberfest (middle school high school appropriate)

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

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Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace August 20, 2020

The second is this: “Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31

Dear friend,

How are you doing loving your neighbor? We have so many chances right now to love people. Chances to spend money on others. Chances to feed others. I pray that as you live with Jesus you seize opportunities to love others!

What makes it hard to love others? I have a long list. This week, Jesus addresses one of the biggest challenges we face in loving others. Can’t wait to see you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30, Wednesday night at 6:30 (Study and Supper) around the Word!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Outdoor Game Night

Friday August 21st 5:30pm!

Bring your favorite board game (tables set up under pavilion) or lawn game. Bring your own salad and dessert, we’ll have meat on the grill.

Fall Ministry

Our fall ministry will soon be here! Can’t wait to worship and follow Jesus with you!

Two key dates:

• September 13th

• October 11th

September 13th begins our fall schedule. We’ll gather for worship at 9:00 am and 10:45 am (not 10:30!). 10:45 worship will remain outdoors! Children will have lessons weekly. Adults will also have a few study chances. (service needs to move to 10:45 to allow the first group to mostly get out of the building before the second group arrives)

Outdoor worship will move indoors on October 11th.

We ask and encourage everyone to follow whatever the local guidelines are. We are thankful for a government exemption that allows us to gather for worship.

• We have a good opportunity to love others. Please be considerate. If we all are, we’ll all benefit.

• We can honor our leaders - all of them; local, state, and federal.

Thank you!

Other notes and happenings

• facility repair

• Audio video upgrade

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Gordon Haas’ thyroid cancer surgery on September 3

• Marilyn Sipple on hospice care

I’m studying and you could try……

• Carey Nieuwhof, “Church attendance is dying. What’s next"?” - interesting facts on the situation, if you’re trying to catch up

• Alabaster Bibles - beautiful books of the Bible for someone in your life https://www.alabasterco.com/

• Building up the Body of Christ - council and elders are reading this

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• August 21st, 5:30 pm outdoor game night

• August 25th, 7:00 pm middle school/high school planning meeting - talk to pastor

• September 13th Fall kick off!

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

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

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Good news from for Peace August 13, 2020

Be generous and willing to share. 1 Timothy 6:18

Dear friend,

How did it go loving your neighbor this week? I had some good stuff and some tough stuff. Two friends lost people they love. I got to comfort and encourage them. A gift for a high school graduate. We're planning a farewell for someone who took a new job. I teased someone and got to apologize. Lots of opportunities to spend. Many chances to love, and love better.

I hope you see that a pandemic gives us more chances to love, even if it makes it harder to love.

• Parents need help parenting

• children need help learning

• Workers need help staying employed or finding new jobs

• communities need help maintaining public spaces

• Isolated neighbors need connection

Please know that I’m working to plan our fall ministry - working with our teachers, elders, musicians, cleaners, and ushers. I can’t wait to gather around the gospel of Jesus with you. I hope it is a benefit for you and your friends in a safe and healthy environment.

This week God helps us sustain our friends no matter what physical need they have. He even sustains us. If you want to help others, come hear the Word!

Outdoor Game Night

Friday August 21st 5:30pm !

Bring your favorite board game (tables set up under pavilion) or lawn game. Bring your own salad and dessert, we’ll have meat on the grill.

Other notes and happenings

• Facility roof repair complete

• Volunteer opportunity - September 26th 12:30 - 3:00 Games at Creative Arts Festival

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Bridget, friend of Myers, lost a spouse

• our local government

• parents deciding how to educate their children this fall

• fall kick off

I’m studying and you could try……

• Nathaniel Timmermann, our recent devotion series on “Suffering”

• Joe Carter, “Survey: Majority of American Christians Don’t Believe the Gospel”

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• August 16th Volunteer roundup and training for the fall (moved up)

• August 18th 5:30 pm elders, 7:00 pm council

• August 21st 5:30 pm outdoor game night

• August 25th 7:00 pm middle school/high school planning meeting - talk to pastor

• September 13th Fall kick off!

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Follow us on Facebook

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace August 6, 2020

Be generous and willing to share. 1 Timothy 6:18

Dear friend,

Love your neighbor.

To love ‘em, you got to know ‘em. Some days, with work, practice, family gatherings, hobbies, and emergencies, there isn’t much time left to love our neighbors.

I’ve enjoyed a simple tool, a block map, to get to know my neighbors. It’s helped. Maybe you can use the one below to help you.

This week, we’ll use God’s gifts to love our neighbors. Join us!

God’s Word this week: 1 Timothy 6:17-21, Matthew 13:44-46

Blessings,

Nathaniel, pastor at Peace

Food to help

Thanks for all the food to help friends and neighbors in the Otsego-Plainwell community. You did so well!

Let’s keep it up. Our August items for Christian Neighbors are hamburger and tuna helper.

Thanks!

AV team

I’m impressed by and grateful for the willingness of a number of individuals to help Peace get online: Cindy Comissaris, Kaitlyn Nelson, Charlie Kling, Connor Hall, and Clara Timmermann.

We could really use your help to get better and fill in the gaps. No experience needed, training provided! If you’d like to help us improve our online experience, please contact pastor at 269-694-6104 or church@peaceotsego.org. Thanks!

Outdoor Game Night

Friday August 21st! 5:30

Bring your favorite board game (tables set up under pavilion) or lawn game. Bring your own salad and dessert, we’ll have meat on the grill.

Roof and siding repair underway

The roofing and siding repair is underway. It’s going very well. The company has done quick, quality work. John Ott, the maintenance chairperson, checks on the job each day.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• family that lost their 13 year old daughter

• facility repair process

• our neighbors

I’m studying and you could try……

• WELS Campus Ministry at 100 - a great encouragement for our campus ministry work

• “All Creatures of our God and King” - good setting of our opening hymn this week

• Unbeliever sends kids to Christian school, 10 years later he is training to be a pastor - how great is God and how he uses his people

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• August 16th Volunteer roundup and training for the fall (moved up)

• August 18th 5:30 pm elders, 7:00 pm council

• September 13th Fall kick off!

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

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Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace July 31, 2020

Then you will call on me and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

Jeremiah 29:12

Dear friend,

“You're driving me crazy!” We've all got people in life that are hard to put up with.

This week Jesus shocks us with a message about the people who drive us crazy. I find it even more surprising that he says it about evil people and people who belong to the evil one. Even them? I shouldn't destroy them or ignore them?

Nope.

See you Sunday to hear what we should do with them. 9:00 am indoors or online, 10:30 outside. We’re worshiping about 40 and 50 people respectively.

Blessings,

Nathaniel, pastor at Peace

Bean bag toss night

Cornhole/bean bag toss party! Come out for some good hearted competition. July 31 5:30 - 10:00. Bring your own sides for your crew or eat before you come; we’ll have brats and hot dogs on. S’mores to close out the night!

Let pastor know if you have a set of boards you can bring. Can't wait to see you!

Food to help

We’re doing great collecting one item per July participant. We’re about halfway to the goal of 323 participants.

Our Christian Neighbors items for July are fruits and juices. But Christian Neighbors is serving many needs and could use: peanut butter and jelly, boxed dinners, spaghetti pasta and sauce, oatmeal, canned meat, tuna, beans, rice - basic nonperishable goods.

Add an item to the table by the large wooden box in the family center. Thanks for your support of those in need!

Lawnmower sold - Thanks!

Serving God and his people

As we head into the fall, there are many opportunities to serve God and others through Peace.

How are you serving God and others? Is it time to serve in a new way? What gifts and talents do you have that could be used for God and others? Want to find some gifts and talents? You could take this survey and share it with us.

If you want to know some ways people are serving and you could serve, check out the team at Peace. We’d love to have you!

AV team

I’m impressed by and grateful for the willingness of a number of individuals to help Peace get online: Cindy Comissaris, Kaitlyn Nelson, Charlie Kling, Connor Hall, and Clara Timmermann.

We could really use your help to get better and fill in the gaps. If you’d like to help us improve our online experience, please contact pastor at 269-694-6104 or church@peaceotsego.org. Thanks!

Fall plan

We’re formulating our fall plan for ministry - services, studies, events, and more - as we try to adjust to COVID. We’d love your input and help. If you have thoughts and suggestions, let’s talk! Pastor is listening.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• high school graduates

I’m studying and you could try……

• Forward in Christ, the WELS magazine https://forwardinchrist.net/

• “2 Steps Forward with James and Ade”, a great Bible study from WELS pastor James Hein and his wife available on any podcasting app and Youtube

• A block map, a helpful tool for loving our neighbors

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• July 31st 5:30 Bean bag toss night

• August 3rd Facility repair begins (note one week delay)

• August 16th Volunteer roundup and training for the fall (moved up)

• September 13th Fall kick off!

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Follow us on Facebook

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace July 24, 2020 (Copy)

For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction. Psalm 1:6

Dear friend,

Did you wait for the Lord this week? I was telling someone that I find it hard to know when to wait and when to act. If you missed last week’s message from Pastor Steve Otto encouraging us to trust and wait on the Lord, check it out.

God’s Word promises to work, but it promises to work for God’s end not ours. Most of the time I don’t even think about what God wants, because I’m so busy thinking about what I want. This week, God calls us to let his Word do what he desires.

See you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30, Wednesday night at 6:30!

Quick reminder:

• If you’re ill or at risk, please stay home and worship with us online or by phone (contact church for info)

• Peace encourages you to follow state guidelines as possible.

• To date, no members are sick as best we know. Let’s keep it that way!

Blessings,

Nathaniel, pastor at Peace

Voters’ meeting

The summer meeting of the voters’ (men over 18 who have agreed to the constitution) will take place on Sunday at 11:45. Attendees are required to wear masks. Those who signed up for notices will receive a digital copy of the material in advance.

If you’d like to join online, please click this link https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/2731366456

Bean bag toss night

Cornhole/bean bag toss party! Come out for some good hearted competition. July 31 5:30 - 10:00. Bring your own sides for your crew or eat before you come; we’ll have brats and hot dogs on. S’mores to close out the night!

Let pastor know if you have a set of boards you can bring. Can't wait to see you!

Food to help

We’re doing great collecting one item per July participant. Thanks for all your help!

We need your help to reach our goal. Our Christian Neighbors items for July are fruits and juices. But Christian Neighbors is serving many needs and could use: peanut butter and jelly, boxed dinners, spaghetti pasta and sauce, oatmeal, canned meat, tuna, beans, rice - basic nonperishable goods.

Add an item to the table by the large wooden box in the family center. Thanks for your support of those in need!

Lawnmower for sale

Peace recently replaced its lawnmower. The old lawnmower (John Deere 60” with roof over the seat) has definitely known quite a few years of wear and tear. It has been maintained. $500. Please contact the church office or Paul Retberg if you are interested to see the mower. Within the next week the mower will be made available to the public.

Serving God and his people

As we head into the fall, there are many opportunities to serve God and others through Peace. Next week, we’ll share a possible list to get involved. For now, consider: how are you serving? Is it time to serve in a new way? What gifts and talents do you have that could be used for God and others?

Want to find some gifts and talents? You could take this survey and share it with us.

Fall plan

We’re formulating our fall plan for ministry - services, studies, events, and more - as we try to adjust to COVIID. We’d love your input and help. If you have thoughts and suggestions, let’s talk! Pastor is listening.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Gloria Osgood

• Sharon Ward’s brother John

• Mark Gieschen’s retirement

I’m studying and you could try……

• There seems to be increased pressure to denounce the Christian faith in China

• Building up the Body of Christ: Supporting Community Life in the Church

• The best outreach starts with listening and asking

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• July 26th, Voter’s Meeting (masks required)

• July 31st 5:30 Bean bag toss night

• August 3rd Facility repair begins (note one week delay)

• August 16th Volunteer roundup and training for the fall (moved up)

• September 13th Fall kick off!

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Follow us on Facebook

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace July 18, 2020

Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. James 1:21

Dear friend,

Are you tired of waiting? Tired of businesses closed, tired of staying home, and tired of waiting to see people. Psalm 27 tells us when there is trouble, we can count on God’s goodness. Until then, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”

Waiting is one of the best ways to show God we trust him. I invite you to join me this weekend to wait better. See you Sunday at 9 or 10:30 am!

Blessings,

Nathaniel, pastor at Peace

Bean bag toss night

Cornhole/bean bag toss party! Come out for some good hearted competition. July 31 5:30 - 10:00. Bring your own sides for your crew or eat before you come; we’ll have brats and hot dogs on. S’mores to close out the night!

Let pastor know if you have a set of boards you can bring. Can't wait to see you!

Facility repair

The facility at Peace was impacted by the hail storm that struck the Otsego - Plainwell area in the beginning of April. Since then, we have learned about the facility and gained proposals for repair. We’ve recently agreed with a contractor for most of the work. John Ott, the maintenance leader, will serve as the director of the project.

The work will take place in the last week of July and the beginning weeks of August. The facility will be available on weekends, but please plan to give the workers space during the week.

The roof of the main buildings will be reshingled. If you are interested in seeing a sample, you may see one in the lobby this weekend (July 12th). It is substantially similar to the current shingles.

Food to help

Can we gather one food item from every participant in the month of July?

Our Christian Neighbors items for July are fruits and juices. But Christian Neighbors is serving many needs and could use: peanut butter and jelly, boxed dinners, spaghetti pasta and sauce, oatmeal, canned meat, tuna, beans, rice - basic nonperishable goods.

Add an item by the large wooden box in the family center. Thanks for your support of those in need!

Lawnmower for sale

Peace recently replaced its lawnmower. The old lawnmower (John Deere 60” with roof over the seat) has definitely known quite a few years of wear and tear. It has been maintained. $500. Please contact the church office or Paul Retberg if you are interested to see the mower. Within the next week the mower will be made available to the public.

Explore Christianity

I’d love to Explore Christianity with you and your friends/neighbors this fall. Be praying for someone you want to share the gospel with!

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The family of Marilyn Meert

• The Becker family - David Becker’s health

I’m studying and you could try……

• The Christian funeral of Marilyn Meert

• “True Confessions”

• “It takes a village to help single parents”

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• July 19th, Open Forum immediately following services

• July 26th, Voter’s Meeting

• July 31st 5:30 Bean bag toss night

• September 13 Volunteer roundup and training for the fall

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

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Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Please pray for Marilyn Meert's family

Dear friends and family of Marilyn Meert,

On Tuesday, July 14th, 2020, Marilyn was brought to glory to celebrate with her Savior.

What a comfort it is for us all to know that Marilyn now triumphs with all the other believers in Jesus. She experiences what we can only imagine:

"Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude... shouting, 'Hallelujah! For our God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bridegroom has made himself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given him to wear.'" (Revelation 19)

A drive by visitation will take place from 10:30 to 11 am on Friday July 17th. High risk individuals are encouraged to come during this time.

A general visitation (social distancing required) will take place from 11:00 to 1:00 pm.

A funeral will take place outdoors at Peace Lutheran Church on Friday, July 17th at 1 pm. As an outdoor worship gathering, it is open to the public and the number of attendees may be 100 or more. Peace and the family ask attendees to follow current guidelines. If all goes well, at risk individuals may stay in their cars, watch the service, and listen over the FM radio (drive in service) - please test the day of about 12:30. Due to the location, the service will not be available live online. The recorded service will be available several hours afterward, click here.

A private burial will take place later in the day.

The obituary is available at https://www.winkelfuneralhome.com/marilyn-r-meert/

Marilyn was a dear treasure of the family of God at Peace as well as the Otsego-Plainwell community. Marilyn was baptized March 13 nearly 90 years ago. She was confirmed April 14 almost 75 years ago.

Please pray for Marilyn’s family:

Lord Jesus, by your victory over death you have opened the way to eternal life for all of us. Marilyn’s family especially is sad because of their loss. Comfort them in their trial. Point the way to life. Renew their joy each morning. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Good news from for Peace July 9, 2020

And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward. Matthew 10:42

Dear friend,

Wow, it’s hot! I think I saw that the number of days over 90 is a new record for Kalamazoo. I could use a glass of water.

God’s Word gives us some really easy, simple instructions this week to build connection and unity. An easy one - “give a cup of cold water”.

What are you doing this week to build connection and unity with other people this week? I enjoyed a lunch and a breakfast this week with people, made a few special phone calls to people in need, and had the joy of wishing most of you a happy independence weekend.

I’d love to welcome you to Peace this weekend so we can build connection and unity. Enjoy Matthew 10:4-42. See you then!

If you’re worshiping indoors, we’d be glad to provide a hymnbook if you’d like one.

Blessings,

Nathaniel, pastor at Peace

Facility repair

The facility at Peace was impacted by the hail storm that struck the Otsego - Plainwell area in the beginning of April. Since then, we have learned about the facility and gained proposals for repair. We’ve recently agreed with a contractor for most of the work. John Ott, the maintenance leader, will serve as the director of the project.

The work will take place in the last week of July and the beginning weeks of August. The facility will be available on weekends, but please plan to give the workers space during the week.

The roof of the main buildings will be reshingled. If you are interested in seeing a sample, you may see one in the lobby this weekend (July 12th). It is substantially similar to the current shingles.

Choir 2020-2021

Past, present, or future choir members:

Due to the COVID 19 virus, we have decided that choir will have to be put on hold for now and not start in the fall. This wasn't a tough decision because the safety of our Peace members comes before anything else.

We don't know yet when we will be able to start up again, but more than likely it won't be until the situation has significantly improved (vaccine, large number of immune individuals).

If there are any Peace members that would be interested in helping with our worship by singing solos or cantoring (guiding congregational singing) please let pastor know.

Food to help

Can we gather one food item from every participant in the month of July?

Our Christian Neighbors items for July are fruits and juices. But Christian Neighbors is serving many needs and could use: peanut butter and jelly, boxed dinners, spaghetti pasta and sauce, oatmeal, canned meat, tuna, beans, rice - basic nonperishable goods.

Add an item by the large wooden box in the family center. Thanks for your support of those in need!

Explore Christianity

I’d love to Explore Christianity with you and your friends/neighbors this fall. Be praying for someone you want to share the gospel with!

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Erika, Howard Hunt’s daughter, who is starting chemo again

• Olivia, Eda Mcneees’ niece, difficult cancer treatment

• Judy Haugh, thanksgiving for successful pain management

• Jeanne Myers, thanksgiving for successful cataract surgery

I’m studying and you could try……

• 9 things to know about Lutheranism from an outsider’s perspective

• Lutheran justification for political resistance from Magdeburg, with historical ties to the revolution

• How canceling people shows a shift toward honor-shame culture

• “The Coronavirus Experiment”

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• No devotion this week - taking a break

• NO July 15th “Study and Supper”

• July 19th, 11:45 am Open Forum

• July 26th, Voter’s meeting

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Follow us on Facebook

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace July 2, 2020

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Romans 12:9

Dear friend,

I’ve been enjoying Jesus’ words this week in Matthew 10 “Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” (verse 39).

As we make daily choices, we have a good opportunity to “leave behind” old parts of our false selves. With so many routines disrupted, we can take away new activities that lead to healthier, abundant life with God and the people around us.

One thing I’ve been glad to leave behind is indirect communication. No one is around, so if I want to talk to people, I’ve got to talk right to them!

What about you? What have you left behind? Let’s talk, 269-694-6104.

See you Sunday around the Word!

Pastor T

P.S. Guidelines for gatherings remain basically the same. We are passing out more service folders in doors if you like them, and, if you’re a hymnbook person, you’re welcome to bring your own or select one on-site and store it in your box as your own.

Wednesday “Study and Supper”

Everyone is welcome to a safe, small opportunity for worship and building relationships on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. We finish before 7:30

Each week features a Bible study and discussion, prayer, confession, singing, and the Lord’s Supper.

This event is a great supplement for individuals worshiping off-site, or a simple worship/study time.

Attendance is limited to about 15. Masks are required.

Open Forum and Voters’ Meeting

The second quarter Open Forum is scheduled for July 19th at 11:45 am. All are welcome to attend.

The open forum is an opportunity to respond to proposals and initiatives. Individuals are welcome to give public feedback on the work of the congregation. Anyone is always welcome to bring feedback to pastor or council if necessary.

If the second quarter Voters’ Meeting takes place, it will be July 26th at 11:45. At this time, there are no business items to address.

Documentation will be available at the meeting. If you’d like information provided to you directly, you’re welcome to sign up.

Choir 2020-2021

Past, present or future choir members:

Due to the COVID 19 virus, we have decided that choir will have to be put on hold for now and not start in the fall. This wasn't a tough decision because the safety of our Peace members comes before anything else.

We don't know yet when we will be able to start up again, but more than likely it won't be until the situation has significantly improved (vaccine, large number of immune individuals).

If there are any Peace members that would be interested in helping with our worship by singing solos or cantoring (guiding congregational singing) please let pastor know.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Helen, Sharon Edgerton’s cousin who is hospitalized for congestive heart failure and pneumonia

• Ellen Miller - thanksgiving for a good surgery

• Our elected and appointed representatives

I’m studying and you could try……

• Wade Johnston “Let the Bird Fly”

• The D.E.S.C script for assertive communication

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• Weekdays 9:00am - live devotion on Facebook, say hi

• July 4th Independence Day!

• July 7th 10:00 am Tuesday Talks study on-site or online

• July 19th 11:45am Open Forum

• July 26th Voter’s meeting

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Follow us on Facebook

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace June 25, 2020

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Psalms 32:8

Dear friend,

I think about a few ways my life has changed in the last 6 months:

• I actually know my way around Aldi well and can grocery shop in 30 minutes (a huge victory)

• I stopped two Monday devotion/study gatherings

• We live stream services weekly and do well

• I’ve left behind my erratic start time each day and begin my day with a live devotion

• I stopped avoiding some difficult conversations and began saying what I felt to my wife and others

• I left behind avoiding a hard paper I need to write

I’d love to know what you have learned during this pandemic & protest season. What have you left behind? What would you like to take away? We’re going to consider a few of the great “leave behind and take aways” in July. Send me an email or text with yours.

For this week, let’s hear one last week to “Trust God in trouble”. See you Sunday at 9:00 (on-site or online), 10:30 outdoors!

[By the way, if you’re a hymnbook person, you’re welcome to bring your own or select one on-site and store it in your box as your own.]

Sincerely,

Nathaniel Timmermann, pastor at Peace

Regular Musicians

Peace is looking to expand it’s group of regular musicians. We pay per weekend ($82). If you play an instrument appropriate for leading the congregation and would like to use your gifts for worship excellence, please let the pastor know via the church office.

Open Forum and Voters’ Meeting

The second quarter Open Forum is scheduled for July 19th at 11:45 am. All are welcome to attend.

The open forum is an opportunity to respond to proposals and initiatives. Individuals are welcome to give public feedback on the work of the congregation. Anyone is always welcome to bring feedback to pastor or council if necessary.

If the second quarter Voters’ Meeting takes place, it will be July 26th at 11:45. At this time, there are no business items to address.

Prayers

• Helen, Sharon Edgerton’s cousin who is hospitalized for congestive heart failure and pneumonia

I’m studying and you could try……

• The Wisconsin Synod Conference of Presidents “A Pastoral Brief on the Issue of Virtual Communion”

• “Race: A Christian Conversation” from Time of Grace

• “Death, terror, and justice” by John Braun

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• Weekdays 9:00am - live devotion on Facebook, say hi

• June 30th 10:00 am Tuesday Talks study on-site or online

• July 4th Independence Day

• July 19th 11:45 am Open Forum

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Follow us on Facebook

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace June 18, 2020

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you, he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

Dear friend,

Whether we gather from our homes or on-site, it's been nice to hear Jesus' word with you and proclaim his name these last few weeks.

Here are a few updates:

• As best as I know, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Peace’s attenders. We know people who have it or have had it.

• 9 am service has about 30 on site. We only use screens, no bulletins or hymnals. Offering is at the door. Only a few people wear masks. 15-20 devices are connected online each week.

• 10:30 am service has between 35-45 attendees. We gather around the pavilion. Please bring your own chairs. There is no need to wear masks.

• Most attenders have participated in the Lord’s Supper.

• I am aware of the breakouts connected to a church in Sheboygan Falls, WI, a church in Oregon, churches in Virginia, and there are probably many others. I’m sure there are many thoughts and considerations about these situations. We’ll try to monitor these situations.

• As we have gathered again on site, people have begun giving through physical gifts. Thanks for your generosity. Year to date, income and expenses are about even through May around $62K. We’re about $10K short of budget. If you are able, I encourage you to try electronic giving at peaceotsego.org/give in order to minimize physical interaction surrounding giving.

If you’re joining us for the first time, please check out the guidelines and sign up so we’ve got the space for you.

Sincerely,

Nathaniel Timmermann, pastor at Peace

Let’s celebrate: Together and dads!

It’s time to celebrate that we can be together and God’s gift of dads. Services Sunday June 21st will be the same as normal - 9:00 am and 10:30. We’ll have a small celebration between service starting about 10:10. See you then!

Prayers

• Olivia, Eda McNees’ niece, whose uncle and father-in-law passed in the last week

• Gus Hendrixson - brother Daryl recently passed

I’m studying and you could try……

• Psalm 131, a psalm declaring confidence in the Lord and the calmness of soul the writer experiences as he trusts his God

• An update on relief work in the Midland area - if you would like to support relief efforts by volunteering or donating, please visit https://wels.net/serving-others/christian-aid-relief/

• A Christian conversation from St Marcus Luth Church (WELS) about George Floyd

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• Weekdays 9:00am - live devotion on Facebook, say hi

• June 21st 10:10 am “Together and dads celebration”

• June 21st 11:45 am catechism

• June 23rd 10:00 am Tuesday Talks study on-site or online

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Follow us on Facebook

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Good news from for Peace June 11, 2020

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Why am I gathering for worship?

I’ve had some practice this week answering this question. We all have questions and concerns: about violence, about unrest, about injustice and justice, about health and safety. With all that’s going on, should we still gather for worship and Word?

It’s a really good time to answer that question. When you think about sitting in the worship service for one of the first times post-quarantine, think about those who have never been there. Dream about what it would be like to sit and stand with them. Invest your joy and your actions in walking shoulder to shoulder with them.

So be ready to answer this question: what makes going back to church better than going back to the Cheers bar to see Norm and the gang? What makes going back to church better than seeing live sports again? What makes going back to church better than the gym and the park and the office and the airport and wherever else you could be.

Craft your answer with clarity, hope, passion, and love. Ask if it is selfish or generous. Pray that God gives you the chance to speak it with all the grace and love and hope you can muster.

We gather

• on-site at 9:00 am

• online 9:00 am or the days after (if you can’t gather live, you can always gather later)

• outdoors at 10:30 am

If you’re joining us for the first time, please check out the guidelines and sign up so we’ve got the space for you.

Sincerely

Nathaniel Timmermann, pastor at Peace

Let’s celebrate: Together and dads!

It’s time to celebrate that we can be together and God’s gift of dads. Services Sunday June 21st will be the same as normal - 9:00 am and 10:30. We’ll have a small celebration between services.

If you would like to wish your dad or father figure a Happy Father’s Day share your video with us and we will include it in our activities for the weekend!

The Lord's Supper

The Lord’s Supper is an incredible gift and experience for our mutual encouragement. I so appreciate standing before the altar, pondering my own soul and the souls of everyone else, and imagining the words from God himself. This Sunday we get to celebrate the Supper at Peace.

Both services will offer the Lord’s Supper. Under normal circumstances, our churches have small amounts of variety in celebrating the Sacrament. For the coming weeks, we’re going to have communion by what is often called “continuous flow distribution”. Please let me share a few details:

• each participant will receive an individually wrapped and sealed wafer and cup

• the wafer/cup will be sitting on a table in front as the service begins

• after the words of Institution, participants will be invited to stand up and move to the center aisle while maintaining appropriate space

• please come forward and take a cup off the table

• please return to your seat by a side aisle

• please remain standing when you return to your seat

• open the sealed wafer and cup, being careful not to spill the wine

• once everyone has returned to their seat, pastor will invite everyone to “take and eat”, “take and drink”

• pastor will bless the congregation

• please discard the waste at the door

I’m glad to receive this incredible gift with you and be assured of my forgiveness. I look forward to this weekend.

We’re aware that some people, because of health concerns or other matters, are still staying home on Sunday. Communion remains available by appointment, and we are looking to establish a midweek opportunity in a more closed setting.

Prayers

• Jeanne and Dave Myer’s son

• Gus Hendrixson - lost his brother

I’m studying and you could try……

• Jesus is with Us - Kids Devotion

• “Crucifying Consumer Mentality” by Pastor Adam Mueller

• Statement from WELS President Mark Schroeder on the aftermath of the George Floyd incident

Upcoming events (full calendar)