Merry Christmas from Pastor on December 23

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the LORD. (Luke 2:11)

Dear friend,

Let’s hear the story of the greatest gift. Whether in person or at home, we’d be pleased to celebrate with you when God sent his Son to be Savior of the world. The child born in Bethlehem cam to live for us, die for us, and rise for us, all so that we might live with him. In Jesus, hope has arrived. Glory has appeared. Peace has been passed down. In our candlelight service hear an inspiring service, sing your favorite Christmas carols, and get God’s greatest gifts.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24TH @ 4:30 AND 6:30 P.M.

CHRISTMAS DAY @ 10:00 A.M.

If you will join us on-site for any activities, sign up to reserve your spot! Please click the button below and fill out the form on the next page. Be sure to let us know the number of people in your group.

There are about 40 people signed up for the 4:30 service and 25 signed up for the 6:30 service. We will give seats to those who signed up. We have lots of space. Please follow the appropriate guidelines.

Feel free to call 269-694-6104 with any questions.

I’d also like to thank you for all the Christmas gifts and kindness. May the joy of Jesus be with you and yours this Christmas season.

There will be no other news (email, text, or print) later this week.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Other notes

• Christmas poinsettias were given by individuals listed here. Thank you!

• Ushers for 12/24 4:30 Kart Wedge & 6:30 Roger Commissaris, Ron Miller

• Ushers for 12/25 10 am Ron Miller

• Ushers for 12/27 9:00 Ron Miller, 10:45 Kart Wedge

• Ushers for January 9:00 Dan Doran, 10:45 Ron Miller

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• December 24th 4:30 and 6:30 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve services

• December 25th, 10:00 am Christmas Day service

• No midweek activities between December 24th and January 2nd

• December 27th 9:00 and 10:45 regular Sunday services

WEEKLY NEWS FROM PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, OTSEGO MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

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

Please pray for the family of Bernie Winkel

Bernie Winkel

[For interactive content, please view this notice online at Good news from Peace — Peace (peaceotsego.org)

Dear friends and family of Bernie Winkel,

On Monday December 21st Bernie was brought to glory to celebrate with his Savior. I am comforted to know that Bernie triumphs with all the saints because of Jesus, and I pray you may be as well. 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)

For Bernie’s obituary, please visit Bernadine M. Winkel | Winkel Funeral Home | Otsego Michigan

Visitation arrangements are posted in the obituary. Individuals may greet the family also on Thursday morning prior to the funeral.

Her funeral will take place indoors at Peace Lutheran Church on Thursday, December 24th at 11 am. It will also be streamed online at https://peaceotsego.org/worship

The funeral is open to the public, but attendance is limited. Please register in advance so we can prepare well by filling out the form below (if viewing online) or click https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews

To give a memorial to Peace in honor of Bernie, please click https://peaceotsego.org/give

We ask and encourage on site attendees to follow active guidelines for social distancing, masks and other health practices. Our focus is to help people grieve the loss of Bernie and to celebrate the victory Jesus has given her. We are also convinced of the importance of caring for health as well as we can.

Serving the living Savior

Pastor Nathaniel Timmermann

Please pray for Bernie’s family: 
Lord Jesus, by your victory over death you have opened the way to eternal life for all of us. Bernie’s family in particular 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 for Peace December 17

When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness. Isaiah 26:9

Dear friend,

Are you ready for whatever God gives you this Christmas?

I would like to be. I want to be.

We had about 45 in the 9:00 am service and about 25 in the 10:45 last week. We have lots of space. Please follow the appropriate guidelines.

Let’s stay together on-site, online, or personal visit (269-694-6104).

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Christmas 2020

On Christmas, we gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let’s join in the celebration on-site or online.

KIDS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 20TH @ 9:00 A.M.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24TH @ 4:30 AND 6:30 P.M.

CHRISTMAS DAY @ 10:00 A.M.

If you will join us on-site for any activities, sign up to reserve your spot! Please click the button below and fill out the form on the next page. Be sure to let us know the number of people in your group.

Giving Tree 2020

A Special Thank You

A special thank you to the parishioners that donated gifts so generously to the giving tree this year. Through your generosity, many children will have a Merry Christmas!

Special Christmas Time Giving Opportunities

During the holiday season, you might think about ways to express your gratitude and serve the community around you. We are inviting you to join us in these opportunities again this year. 

Christmas Gift for Called Workers

• You are invited to place your monetary token of love and thanks for Pastor Timmerman in an envelope marked “Christmas Gift”. 

• Please give it to Charlie Kling or Ralph Holewa in the mail, in person, drop it in the collection plate, or one of their church mailboxes

• Gifts will be received until the morning of December 20th

• These gifts will be presented at the end of the 6:30 pm service

The Tree of Warmth: 

• New acceptable items include hats, gloves, and scarves

• Donations will go to Dix Street, Washington Street elementary schools, and Kalamazoo Gospel Mission 

• Donations will be accepted through January 3rd

Ministry review

The elders recently finished reviewing our ministry, including the work of our staff.

We asked 21 households for feedback. Their ages ranged from low 20s to 80s. 14 households responded. Most of the responses were from individuals over 65. 

We’d like to thank the individuals who responded to their feedback.

We’d like to respond to a few points.

1. Hymnals: A few people asked for hymnals. We reiterate - we encourage the use of hymnals. Please bring your own or ask and we’ll provide one that you can leave in your box. 

2. Ushers: Ushers were asked to complete prep before service. We certainly agree and constantly work on it. For a number of reasons, to make this happen, this is an area where we need everyone on-site to help out. 

3. Digital methods (digital newsletter, live stream, and electronic giving): We are glad to see our digital methods be generally well-received, despite the learning curve. We’re starting to see better engagement. We hope for continued success in improving our practices and appreciate appropriate feedback.

4. Awareness: One younger individual commented that he/she had no awareness of the work of our administrative assistant. This is a persistent theme - that much of what we do does not engage people under 60. 

5. Brochure: A brochure was asked for to explain mission, value, and strategies. We aren’t sure about the return on investment for us, and pastor will look into it. We may be better served by integrating some of those ideas into a service folder. 

6. Calendar: The calendar was asked for in a monthly view. The calendar is printed monthly in a monthly view and emailed as a pdf. That calendar is also available by clicking “full calendar” each week. It would not be convenient to include it in the weekly email.

We’re taking away the following:

1. Recognition: Pastor, Cindy, Jessica, and a few others were all recognized for the regular work getting done. People are generally satisfied. We’re glad to hear that. 

2. Member retention: We validate the concern for member retention. We've noticed that concern in 2017 - 2019, and probably long before. Whether we are speaking of people we know well and miss dearly, or thinking of people only barely connected to us, member retention matters for the kingdom of God. Member retention is generally produced through the presence of certain characteristics and the absence of other characteristics.  We’ve identified both things we’re lacking (a sense of leadership and direction, trust, real relationships) and things that are present that we can work on (lack of responsiveness, dysfunction, lack of connection with teaching). Member retention should exist alongside outreach. Jesus calls us to make disciples. 

3. Unsurprised: We were not surprised by the feedback we received this year. We take that as a good sign. It is always a good task to get the big ideas out of this size crowd. We try to stay on top of the feelings of the different generations and demographic groups. We hope communication improves for an even better partnership. 

This is a good time to remind us all that feedback once a year, anonymously given and summarized is a useful tool for good ministry. It helps us stay on top of big picture trends. 

Small, week to week feedback, is just as valuable and helpful. Please talk to the council and elders. Ushers, music, tech, hymnals, cleaning, Bible class times, study topics, philosophy, politics, and so much more all can benefit from the constant conversation. 

Thank you for this partnership. God be with you as you follow Jesus! 

Pastor T and the elders of Peace 

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Dave and Jeanne Myers 50th anniversary

• Christmas

Other notes

• Children — practice for the Children’s Christmas service

• Please nominate godly men — click here

• The freezer at church is out of order. We need someone to look into it. Please do not attempt to use it for the time being.

• Due to the better sound with the speakers on the floor, the council has decided to leave the speakers on the ground while we explore the next steps

• someone could use a full/double size box spring if anyone has a spare. Please contact the office.

• Ushers for 12/20 9:00 am Ron Miller, 10:45 Kart Wedge

• Ushers for 12/24 4:30 & 6:30: Unknown

I’m studying and you could try

• Ryan Burge, The Growing Divide Within American Evangelicalism (religionunplugged.com)

• Michigan cities and townships ranked by median household income, based on new Census data - mlive.com (Subscription required)

• Collin Hansen, My Top 10 Theology Stories of 2020 (thegospelcoalition.org)

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• December 20th, 9:00 am Children’s Christmas service

• December 24th 4:30 and 6:30 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve services

• December 25th, 10:00 am Christmas Day service

• No midweek activities between December 24th and January 2nd

• December 27th 9:00 and 10:45 regular Sunday services

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

Christmas Gift for Called Workers

Dear fellow member of Peace,

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” -1 Chronicles 16:34

I hope you enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday when we gave thanks to our gracious God for all of the blessings, he has given us this past year.

Now, with Advent upon us, when we have the opportunity to once again prepare our hearts and minds to celebrate Christ’s coming, and with the celebration of that birth once again close at hand, when we give thanks to the Lord for his greatest gift of a Savior from sin, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy and Christ-centered Christmas season, and thank you for letting me serve as your president.

Please accept this letter as an opportunity to also give thanks to the Lord for our called worker here at Peace, Pastor Timmermann, and to express our love and thanks to him for his work among us.

You are invited to place your monetary token of love and appreciation in an envelope marked “Christmas Gift”. Then get it to me or Ralph Holewa in the mail, in person, drop it in the collection plate, or leave it in one of our church mailboxes no later than the morning of Sunday, December 20.

These gifts are to be presented at the end of the 6:30 PM Christmas Eve service. Please make any checks payable to “Peace Lutheran Church”.

If you have any questions, please ask. The best ways to reach me are face-to-face, or by calling or texting me at (269) 903-7091.

With thanks,

Charlie Kling,

congregation president

**Please note: Per IRS rules, these gifts are not considered offerings to Peace and will not appear on your giving statement. Thank you

****************************************************************************************************

805 South Wilmott Street + Otsego, Michigan 49078-1460

269-694-6104

End of the year giving 2020

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

Psalm 34:8

End of year giving

Please know how thankful I am for all your generosity to the Lord and the mission he has given us. In an incredibly difficult year, you’ve responded with more than $155,000 of giving. Thank you.

If you’d still like to give thanks to the Lord and join in our mission, please make sure your gifts are in by Sunday, December 27th. Gifts recorded in 2021 will be considered 2021 gifts.

Many organizations and individuals invite your generosity at the end of the year. On behalf of the young man who professed faith in Jesus, the young lady who got baptized, the couples looking for a church with faith, not politics, and the hurting individuals, plus so many more, please believe Jesus is making a difference through you.

Individuals 70 ½ or older should also know that they can receive some excellent benefits through the end of the year 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, Jim Winkel, or pastor.

May the Lord enrich your experience of his coming in Word and Sacrament this Christmas.

Sincerely,

Nathaniel, pastor at Peace

Good news for Peace December 11, 2020

And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 1 John 5:11

Dear friend,

How is the gift-buying and gift-giving going? Last week we got the gift of forgiveness. I look forward to the next gift this week. Join me!

I’d like to pass on a special thanks to Amy Nelson, Tashina McCollum, and Rachel Timmermann for painting the large wall in the church entry area. That was a nice gift to us! Well done!

We had about 35 in the 9:00 am service and about 20 in the 10:45 last week. We have lots of space. Please follow the appropriate guidelines.

Let’s stay together on-site, online, or personal visit (269-694-6104).

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Christmas 2020

On Christmas, we gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let’s join in the celebration on-site or online.

KIDS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 20TH @ 9:00 A.M.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24TH @ 4:30 AND 6:30 P.M.

CHRISTMAS DAY @ 10:00 A.M.

If you will join us on-site for any activities, sign up to reserve your spot! Please click the button below and fill out the form on the next page. Be sure to let us know the number of people in your group.

Thanks for Christmas decorating

Thank you to the Wedges, Eda McNees, the Timmermanns, Charlie Kling, the Commissarises, and the Holewas for all your decorating help. We’re adding to the festive spirit!

Special Christmas Time Giving Opportunities

During the holiday season, you might think about ways to express your gratitude and serve the community around you. We are inviting you to join us in these opportunities again this year. 

The Tree of Warmth: 

• New acceptable items include hats, gloves, and scarves

• Donations will go to Dix Street, Washington Street elementary schools, and Kalamazoo Gospel Mission 

• Donations will be accepted through January 3rd

The Giving Tree

• Take a card from the tree

• Purchase a gift

• Return the unwrapped gift under the tree by December 17th. 

Christmas Bags for Kids

• Small gifts bags will be handed out to the children that attend our Christmas services

• Please donate small gifts for the bags such as candy, crayons, coloring books, Christmas cards, or Ornaments. 

• We usually give away about 25 bags. Please plan an appropriate number.

• Drop off items in office by December 17th

Prayers (full prayer list)

Other notes

• Christmas flowers (poinsettias) are available now through December 13th for $7. Please sign up at church or by email.

• We regret all of the technical issues that we’ve had the last few weeks. We tried to mention that the headset failed two weeks ago and we’ve now been able to replace it for the coming weekend. The soundboard locked up this last weekend. We spent a couple of hours with the manufacturer and contractor getting it fixed this week. We’ll spend the next few weeks resetting our audio system. Finally, the computer running the call-in line has crashed and ran slow repeatedly. We’re sorry you haven’t been able to listen to the services. We also have had user issues due to inadequate staffing and insufficient skills. We’ll work on this. We certainly welcome help as we try to serve others with the gospel.

• We also recognize the logistical challenges on Sunday mornings and we regret the situation. We wish we had more solutions and ask that we all try to pitch in together. We may not have an usher to take care of service folders, lights, candles, doors, offerings, and more. We don't have assistance with technology and pastor gets it done. We will continue to minister as best we can, and hope you can join in.

• Ushers for 12/13 9:00 am Ron Miller, 10:45 Kart Wedge

• Last week’s engagement 53

• Last week’s giving $3,448.30

I’m studying and you could try

• Sign up for Christmas services!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• December 13th, 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew - online game night

• December 20th, 9:00 am Children’s Christmas service

• December 24th 4:30 and 6:30 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve services

• December 25th, 10:00 am Christmas Day service

• No midweek activities between December 24th and January 2nd

• December 27th 9:00 and 10:45 regular Sunday services

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 for Peace December 4, 2020

Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you. Deuteronomy 16:17

Dear friend,

We had about 40 in the 9:00 am service and about 15 in the 10:45 last week. We have lots of space.

• If you have any symptoms, please stay home.

• If you have been within 6’ of someone with COVID for 15 minutes, please stay home.

• Please respect others on-site.

• The elderly and at-risk should especially consider staying home.

Whether you join me online, on-site, or contact me (269-694-6104) for personal devotion and communion, do not give up God’s Word and Sacraments. I especially encourage those of you who have understandably stayed home for months, please get ahold of me to have God’s Word applied to you personally and get the Lord’s Supper.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Christmas 2020

On Christmas, we gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let’s join in the celebration on-site or online. Let’s gather for any of these remembrances!

KIDS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 20TH @ 9:00 A.M.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24TH @ 4:30 AND 6:30 P.M.

CHRISTMAS DAY @ 10:00 A.M.

*Because of COVID-19, events and activities may be changed

If you will join us on-site for any activities, we’d appreciate it if you’d sign up. Please click the button below and fill out the form on the next page. Be sure to let us know the number of people in your group.

Christmas flowers (poinsettias)

Christmas poinsettias make our sanctuary beautiful.

You are invited to donate a poinsettia in remembrance of a loved one or simply to celebrate Christmas.

Sign up in the narthex/entry area or respond to this email by December 13th.

Cost is $7 payable by cash or check to Frieda Walkley.

Poinsettias may be taken home after Christmas Day worship on December 25th or the Sunday following Christmas.

Special Christmas Time Giving Opportunities

During the holiday season, you might think about ways to express your gratitude and serve the community around you. We are inviting you to join us in these opportunities again this year. 

The Tree of Warmth: 

• New acceptable items include hats, gloves, and scarves

• Donations will go to Dix Street, Washington Street elementary schools, and Kalamazoo Gospel Mission 

• Donations will be accepted through January 3rd

The Giving Tree

• Take a card from the tree

• Purchase a gift

• Return the unwrapped gift under the tree by December 17th. 

Christmas Bags for Kids

• Small gifts bags will be handed out to the children that attend our Christmas services

• Please donate small gifts for the bags such as candy, crayons, coloring books, Christmas cards, or ornaments. 

• We usually give away about 25 bags. Please plan an appropriate number.

• Drop off items in office by December 17th 

Nominations

November/December is an important time at Peace to select future leaders. The nominating committee, council, and elders are all working to make sure the people God has equipped with gifts are serving in places and ways that will further the mission of God. 

Paul and Barnabas did this work as they traveled around according to Acts 14:23, “Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.” Paul told Titus to do this in Crete when he worked there. “The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.” (Titus 1:5) From the Bible, we learn a number of things about local leaders: 

• Elders, deacons, and other ministry workers should come from the local group. Every church should have people who can use God’s Word in people’s lives, whether they help students, young adults, or seniors. God’s people work together. 

• People mature in the Word should select the next generation. Many people should have involvement. Still, we have good reasons to let our current leaders narrow the list of future leaders. 

• Selecting leaders happens alongside spiritual practices - prayer, fasting, careful assessment of what is undone, and discipline 

We have proposed some new bylaws to go into effect February 2021. We recognize some of the current positions may change in the new year. However, every role will still be part of the Peace, even if it changes.

Please feel free to make suggestions for nominations to pastor or any of our council/elders over the next two months (Charlie Kling, Ron Miller, Terry Brower, Jon Ott, Shawn Gavan, Josh Gower).  You may offer yourself if you would like. 

We will look for people who show signs of gifts and developing spiritual maturity to lead God’s people. The use of individual gifts is more important than simply filling a role. As God blesses us, we hope to fill some of the following roles: elders, financial secretary, recording secretary, music coordinator, evangelism/outreach team, and education. 

One person provided some wise advice for selecting leaders: “Most churches make the mistake of electing the competent, the confident, and the successful; whereas what you really need is a man who has been broken by the knowledge of his own sin, and restored by an even greater knowledge of grace. That kind of elder (or other leader) can lead the congregation in being the chief repenter: repenting more quickly, more publicaly, more often and more deeply.” Please pray for all the current and future servant-leaders of Peace. 

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Bernie Winkel - health

• Cousin of Lucyann Spencer and cousin’s mom - hospitalized with COVID

• Our Christmas celebration and remembrance

Other notes

• December Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices

• The lawn needs another mowing to mulch leaves and catch the last grass. Please speak with pastor or Jon Ott.

• Bylaws - last Q & A session on Sunday at 12:00

• We need an auditing committee to review our books. Please let pastor or Charlie know if you can help.

  I’m studying and you could try

• Koine “Now Thank We All Our God” 

• Professor Otto’s Advent devotion, https://livestream.com/WLSLive/DailyChapel120219/videos/199489991

• Advent: A Time to Wait

• SCOTUS Blocks Cuomo’s COVID Restrictions On Church Attendance In New York

• The FAQs: What Christians Should Know About Loneliness (thegospelcoalition.org)

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• December 6th 12:00 pm Bylaws Q&A

• December 6th 12:00 pm Christmas decorating

• December 13th 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew - online game night

• December 20th 9:00 am Children’s Christmas service

• December 24th 4:30 and 6:30 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve services

Weekly news from Peace Lutheran Church, Otsego MI

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

church@peaceotsego.org

peaceotsego.org

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

Special Christmastime giving opportunities

Give and it will be given to you. A good measure pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Luke 6:38

Dear friend,

Every Christmas we join in a few special giving opportunities. I’d like to invite you to join me again this year.

Tree of Warmth

As temperatures continue to drop many people are in need of winter hats, gloves, and coats. The tree of warmth is up in the family center at church and warmly welcomes your donations through January 3rd.

New acceptable items include;

• Hats

• Gloves

• Scarves

Donations will be given to:

• Dix Street Elementary School

• Washington Street Elementary School

• Kalamazoo Gospel Mission

Giving Tree

We are gathering gifts for a mother of two children connected to a women’s shelter in Allegan, Sylvia’s Place.

If you would like to give a gift for the family this Christmas, please do the following:

• Look at the cards on the tree (either stop by the church or call the office so we can read them to you)

• Take a card

• Purchase the gift - if you have questions, please contact Jane Holewa at 269-680-9060

• Return the unwrapped gift under the tree by December 17th with the tag on it. (if you want to drop it off outside of Peace's normal hours, please contact the office)

Christmas bags for Kids

We love to give children who attend our Christmas services small gifts for Christmas, especially emphasizing the meaning of Christmas. We invite you to help out with these small gifts.

Appropriate items that we could add to these gift bags might include:

• Candy (a popular favorite!)

• Ornaments

• Crayons

• Coloring books

• Christmas cards

We usually give away about 25 Christmas bags for kids. Please plan to provide an appropriate number (if not enough for 25, perhaps a suggestion for the others).

Please drop items in office by December 17th.

Good news for Peace November 26, 2020

Because your love is better than life; my lips will glorify you. Psalm 63:3

Dear friend,

I pray you, your friends, and your family were blessed this Thanksgiving. I love the opportunity Thanksgiving give us to both feel grateful and to express gratitude.

Consider using your sense and expression of gratitude as a thermometer for your spiritual health. Time for a check up and a warm up? Join us for services and studies.

Sunday at 9:00 or 10:45, Wednesday at 6:30.

We had about 35 in the 9:00 am service and about 20 in the 10:45 last week.

• If you have any symptoms, please stay home.

• If you have been within 6’ of someone with COVID for 15 minutes, please stay home.

• Please respect others on-site. Keep your distance.

• The elderly and at risk should especially consider staying home.

• Please wear a mask.

Whether you join me online, on site, or contact me (269-694-6104) for personal devotion and communion, do not give up God’s Word and Sacraments. I especially encourage those of you who have understandably stayed home for months, please get ahold of me to have God’s Word applied to you personally and get the Lord’s Supper.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Advent 2020

I invite you to engage in some healthy practices of rest and restoration this pre-Christmas season.

Advent means “coming”; it also means "expectation". It helps us develop a joyful expectation of Christ’s return. This Advent as you meditate on God’s Word, may he match the expectations of your heart to his own so that his return is nothing but the greatest bliss, joy, pleasure, and satisfaction for you.

There are also some great Advent devotions

• Martin Luther College (the WELS college of ministry) has prepared Advent devotions on a Jesse tree. There are some copies available at church. (You can even subscribe via email))

• Bread for Beggars has a beautiful couples devotion for Advent

• Hymns and music for Advent https://lutheransynodpublishing.com/diy-advent-song-of-songs/

• Concordia Publishing Counting to Christmas - Advent resource for children and families https://www.cph.org/p-31030-Counting-to-Christmas-Family-Advent-Devotions-and-Calendar.aspx

• Advent music playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2M0SnW9zXQ5UCzZbmOhRky 

If you don’t have an Advent wreath, get one this year. Church will be glad to help you get a beautiful, simple Advent wreath for only $15. Email church@peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

Christmas 2020

On Christmas we gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let’s join in the celebration - on-site or online.

KIDS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 20TH @ 9:00 A.M.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24TH @ 4:30 AND 6:30 P.M.

CHRISTMAS DAY @ 10:00 A.M.

*Because of COVID-19, events and activities may be changed

Christmas flowers

We don’t have a coordinator for Christmas flowers. Please speak with pastor.

Nominations

November/December is an important time at Peace to select future leaders. The nominating committee, council, and elders are all working to make sure the people God has equipped with gifts are serving in places and ways that will further the mission of God. 

Paul and Barnabas did this work as they traveled around according to Acts 14:23, “Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.” Paul told Titus to do this in Crete when he worked there. “The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.” (Titus 1:5) From the Bible, we learn a number of things about local leaders: 

• Elders, deacons, and other ministry workers should come from the local group. Every church should have people who can use God’s Word in people’s lives, whether they help students, young adults, or seniors. God’s people work together. 

• People mature in the Word should select the next generation. Many people should have involvement. Still, we have good reasons to let our current leaders narrow the list of future leaders. 

• Selecting leaders happens alongside spiritual practices - prayer, fasting, careful assessment of what is undone, and discipline 

We have proposed some new bylaws to go into effect February 2021. We recognize some of the current positions may change in the new year. However, every role will still be part of the Peace, even if it changes.

Please feel free to make suggestions for nominations to pastor or any of our council/elders over the next two months (Charlie Kling, Ron Miller, Terry Brower, Jon Ott, Shawn Gavan, Josh Gower).  You may offer yourself if you would like. 

We will look for people who show signs of gifts and developing spiritual maturity to lead God’s people. The use of individual gifts is more important than simply filling a role. As God blesses us, we hope to fill some of the following roles: elders, financial secretary, recording secretary, music coordinator, evangelism/outreach team, and education. 

One person provided some wise advice for selecting leaders: “Most churches make the mistake of electing the competent, the confident, and the successful; whereas what you really need is a man who has been broken by the knowledge of his own sin, and restored by an even greater knowledge of grace. That kind of elder (or other leader) can lead the congregation in being the chief repenter: repenting more quickly, more publically, more often and more deeply.” Please pray for all the current and future servant-leaders of Peace. 

Prayers (full prayer list)

• a meaningful Thanksgiving remembrance for us all after the difficulty of the last year

Other notes

• November Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices (box for food in the family center)

• The WELS C20 campaign has lots of helpful resources and encouragements

• The lawn needs another mowing to mulch leaves and catch the last grass. Please speak with pastor or Jon Ott.

• We recently had a free energy audit done and received new thermostats, among other things

• Bylaws - Don’t forget the last 2 Q & A sessions are this week. For all other updates…click here.

• Altar flowers can still be given at church. Just let pastor know since the calendar is out of date.

• Bylaws update

  I’m studying and you could try

• George Washington’s “Thanksgiving Proclamation”

• Thanksgiving highlights this year

• “How The Pilgrims Planted The Seeds For America’s Constitutional Rights And Liberties”

• Church should form, not affirm us

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• December 1st 6:30 pm Bylaws Q&A

• December 6th 12:00 pm Bylaws Q&A

• December 6th 12:00 pm Christmas decorating

• December 13th 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew - online game night

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

Thanksgiving 2020

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

Psalm 34:8

Thanksgiving 2020

“Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Eph 5:19 - 20)

We’re celebrating Thanksgiving together on November 25th.

• 6:30 pm on-site service (this service will NOT be streamed on Facebook or Youtube)

• 7:00 pm online service on Zoom ONLY, not available on Facebook or Youtube

If you haven’t used Zoom before, it’s very similar to other video chat software. Here is a quick video if you’d like help.

Bring your kingdom thanksgivings that we can pray about and give thanks for this year. It’s been a tough year, but we still have plenty to give thanks for.

God be with you and a blessed Thanksgiving to you and your families!

Good news for Peace November 18, 2020

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

Dear friend,

Like you, we’ve seen the recent closings of schools and businesses. We’ve also seen the increase in cases.

We will continue to meet on site for worship

• Sunday 9:00 am or 10:45

• Wednesday night study at 6:30 pm, communion about 7:15

• Communion Sundays (2nd and 4th) drive through communion after both services

We’d like to remind all our participants

• we do not engage in close contact on site, which is the risky behavior

• churches are statistically one of the safest activities according to MI state data of both new and ongoing outbreaks (https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98163_98173_102057---,00.html), while being one of the best for your overall health and well being

We had about 35 in the 9:00 am service and about 20 in the 10:45 last week.

• If you have any symptoms, please stay home.

• If you have been within 6’ of someone with COVID for 15 minutes, please stay home.

• Please respect others on-site. Keep your distance.

• The elderly and at risk should especially consider staying home.

• Please wear a mask.

Whether you join me online, on site, or contact me (269-694-6104) for personal devotion and communion, do not give up God’s Word and Sacraments. I especially encourage those of you who have understandably stayed home for months, please get ahold of me to have God’s Word applied to you personally and get the Lord’s Supper.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Thanksgiving 2020

“Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Eph 5:19 - 20)

I look forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with you on November 26th.

• 6:30 pm on-site devotion and prayers

• 7:00 pm online devotion and prayers

Be sure to share the kingdom thanksgivings that we can pray about and give thanks for this year. It’s been a tough year, but we still have plenty to give thanks for.

Full details linked below.

Christmas flowers

We don’t have a coordinator for Christmas flowers. Please speak with pastor.

Advent 2020

Christmas 2020 will be different. It will still be a good chance to grow in waiting, hoping, and expecting.

There has never been a better chance to grow in practices of waiting and hoping for Jesus. A classic, beautiful practice is the use of an Advent wreath. Each week includes a candle to light and devotions.

If you don’t have an Advent wreath, get one this year. Church will be glad to help you get a beautiful, simple Advent wreath for only $15. Email church@peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

We’ll have more for Advent in the coming weeks. Let’s get ready for the greatest gift!

The gospel, Jesus, and faith that brings life! 

This is the class for people who aren’t sure if they believe in Jesus, would like to know more about Christianity, or would like a more formal introduction to the Christian church.

The next session will start in February!

Bylaws updates

The council made this video to review the bylaws changes.

Please join us for our next Q & A session on December 1st 6:30 pm.

For all updates, please visit https://peaceotsego.church/restructuring-bylaws-update/

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The Hunt family - daughter Erika passed away after struggle with cancer

• a meaningful Thanksgiving remembrance for us all after the difficulty of the last year

Other notes

• November Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices (box for food in the family center)

• The WELS C20 campaign has lots of helpful resources and encouragements

• The lawn needs another mowing to mulch leaves and catch the last grass. Please speak with pastor or Jon Ott.

• Sunday 11/22 9:00 service needs an usher - current guidelines

I’m studying and you could try

• Andrew Schroer, 364 days of thanksgiving

• Peter Steinke Healthy Congregations

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• November 25th 6:30 and 7:00 Thanksgiving celebration

• December 1st 6:30 pm Bylaws Q&A

• December 6th 12:00 pm Bylaws Q&A

• December 6th 12:00 pm Christmas decorating

• December 13th 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew - online game night

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 for Peace November 11, 2020

What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Mark 8:36

Dear friend,

Have I experienced pain, loneliness, sadness, bitterness, anger, resentment, and maybe even despair lately?

Have I tasted community, joy, thanksgiving, gratitude, and hope?

These are just some of the questions we ask ourselves to see how our faith is doing. I’m concerned for many of us. We haven’t had the Lord’s Supper with others in a long time, we haven’t been together to apply God’s Word, we haven't forgiven and been forgiven.

We’ve lived through a lot of stress, anger, pain, and anxiety. We need the gospel shared by God’s people to strengthen us.

I'd like to make an expectation clear. I expect us all to pay at least some attention to our own spiritual health, to be aware of its strength and weakness. This is no different than the doctor, who expects you to know something about your health.

The other expectation is that you'll work on your spiritual health with good practices. Hear the gospel, receive the medicine of immortality (the Lord's Supper), forgive, and be forgiven.

We had about 35 in the 9:00 am service and about 20 in the 10:45 last week. There is plenty of space!

• If you have any symptoms, please stay home.

• If you have been within 6’ of someone with COVID for 15 minutes, please stay home.

• Please respect others on-site and follow guidelines.

Love to have you!

Pastor Timmermann

Thanksgiving 2020

“Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Eph 5:19 - 20)

I look forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with you. On November 25th, we’ll have a 6:30 pm on-site devotion and prayers. We’ll have 7:00 pm online devotion and prayers.

Be sure to share the kingdom thanksgivings that we can pray about and give thanks for this year. It’s been a tough year, but we still have plenty to give thanks for.

Full details linked below.

Advent 2020

Christmas 2020 will be different. It will still be a good chance to grow in waiting, hoping, and expecting.

There has never been a better chance to grow in practices of waiting and hoping for Jesus. A classic, beautiful practice is the use of an Advent wreath. Each week includes a candle to light and devotions.

If you don’t have an Advent wreath, get one this year. Church will be glad to help you get a beautiful, simple Advent wreath for only $15. Email church@peaceotsego.org or call 269-694-6104

We’ll have more for Advent in the coming weeks. Let’s get ready for the greatest gift!

A big thank you to all the volunteers that helped on Saturday during Fall Work Day! We appreciate you!

Service Men and Women

Veterans Day gives us an opportunity to thank and support our veterans. If you know an active duty service person or a veteran you would like us to remember, please fill out this form http://bit.ly/31HnH40 or contact the office.

The gospel, Jesus, and faith that brings life! 

This is the class for people who aren’t sure if they believe in Jesus, would like to know more about Christianity, or would like a more formal introduction to the Christian church.

The next session will start in February!

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Sharon Ward and family - Rick passed

• Judy Haugh - sick with pneumonia and COVID

Other notes

• November Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices (box for food in the family center)

• Bylaws updates are posted here - join pastor and Charles Kling for the next Q & A on November 16th, 6:30 pm on-site or online

• The WELS C20 campaign has lots of helpful resources and encouragements

• We painted the large wall of the entry area. See how it looks! Thanks to the paint crew, Amy Nelson, Tashina McCollum, and Rachel Timmermann

I’m studying and you could try

• Ben Sadler, “Divisiveness: Why Christianity is Our Only Hope”

• CS Lewis Essay Collection

• Andrew Schroer, 364 days of thanksgiving

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• November 15th Volunteer (and staff) appreciation

• November 16th, 6:30 pm Bylaws Q & A

• November 17th Elders and Council

• November 25th 6:30 and 7:00 Thanksgiving celebration

• December 6th 12:00 pm Christmas decorating

• December 13th 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew - online game night

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 for Peace November 5, 2020

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

Dear friend,

I have to admit. I find it hard to wait for the gospel to have an effect.

I have made weekly visits to a local nursing home for the last four years (except for COVID). Another pastor did the same before me.

About a year and a half ago one couple asked me to provide funeral services. I had become their pastor.

This last week I shared the good news of the resurrection from the dead with their family and friends. They weren’t uncomfortable. I was just expressing a fairly new conviction - that people who believe in Jesus really do live eternally.

Christians bet all of eternity on the work of Jesus. It’s that bet we’ll consider these weeks - “The End”.

Whether you join me on-site or online, I look forward to worshiping with you.

We had about 35 in the 9:00 am service and about 7 in the 10:45 last week. If you'd like to keep the 10:45 service, this is the time to vote with your feet! If attendance remains low, we’ll cancel. There is plenty of space!

• If you have any symptoms, please stay home.

• If you have been within 6’ of someone with COVID for 15 minutes, please stay home.

• Please respect others on-site and follow all guidelines, including mask-wearing.

https://peaceotsego.org/worship https://facebook.com/peaceotsego https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX3B2OTwow_niCr4O73yEQA?

Love to have you!

Pastor Timmermann

Thank you to all the volunteers for Trunk or Treat!

We had approximately 100 kids visit us during Trunk or Treating. It was a blessing to see all the kids dressed up!

Fall Work Day

Many hands make light work. Fall Work Day is Saturday, November 7th from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Most work will be outdoor and distanced. We do have a few inside tasks that need to be completed. Please review the Work Day list to see where you can help and join us!

Staff and Volunteer Appreciation

“What are all these?”

• Sign a thank you card

• If you wish, drop off a small gift to say thanks for someone special

• Be part of worship on-site or online on November 8th or 15th to thank your volunteer

Forward in Christ (and other subscriptions)

Our synod offers two main periodicals: Forward in Christ (a monthly magazine) and Meditations (a quarterly devotion booklet).

We help individuals who want to receive paper editions subscribe. We receive a discount that way. If you’d like to subscribe to either of these, now is the time. Please speak with pastor.

These periodicals are also available electronically.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Jeanne Myers’ uncle - hospitalized with COVID

• the Peace family with COVID

• Don Grubius, lost his wife Donna Grubius recently

• Judy Haugh - hospitalized with COVID and pneumonia

• Rick Ward - hospitalized with COVID and pneumonia

Other notes

• November Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices (box for food in the family center

• Bylaws updates are posted here - join pastor and Charles Kling for the next Q & A on November 16th, 6:30 pm on-site or online

I’m studying and you could try

• Mark Parsons, “The Ancient of Days on Election Day”

• Chad Bird, “God’s Not Worried about the Election”

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• November 7th, 9:00 am Fall workday (list)

• November 8th and 15th Volunteer (and staff) appreciation

• CANCELED - November 8th, 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew (leave at 4)

• November 16th, 6:30 pm Bylaws Q & A

• November 17th Elders and Council

• November 25th Thanksgiving celebration

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 for Peace October 30, 2020

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

Dear friend,

Our spirits have all grown weary of politics, pandemics, and outrage.

We’re grateful that the people we know are recovering from their illnesses, including COVID.

We’re especially thankful for your respect for others - wearing a mask, your willingness to give people distance, avoid contact, good cleaning, and now fogging at church - while we worship the Lord and honor him. We can do both. Our souls need both. The world needs our love for God and our love for our neighbors.

The gospel means that “A Christian is lord of all, completely free of everything.” and “A Christian is a servant, completely attentive to the needs of all.” This weekend we get to celebrate this gospel message and the relationship it gives us to our neighbors.

If you’d like to dig into the impact of the Reformation, the “This Changed Everything” series is good. The first video is below.

We’ve also got a packet to review the Reformation that you can use!

We had about 15 in the 9:00 am service and about 10 in the 10:45 last week. About 6 Wednesday nights 6:30 study & Supper.

Obviously, there is plenty of space! If you have any symptoms, please stay home. Please respect others on site and follow all guidelines, including mask wearing.

If you choose to stay home or just can’t make it, be sure to join us online at either time!

https://peaceotsego.org/worship https://facebook.com/peaceotsego https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX3B2OTwow_niCr4O73yEQA?

Love to have you!

Pastor Timmermann

Restructuring (new bylaws)

The council introduced new bylaws to congregation at the meeting on Sunday.

This begins a process of review leading to adoption. We’ll offer multiple Q & A sessions.

• November 3rd, 6:30 pm Q & A

• November 16th, 6:30 pm Q & A

• December 1st, 6:30 pm Q & A

• December 6th, 12:00 pm Q & A

• Vote January 31, 2021

If you’d like to join online, you may do so through Zoom each time:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8189384084?pwd=UzkzNVJnRDBheGIvNWZqWUV5eERIZz09

Please consider attending a session or finding your own time for questions.

Individuals signed up for notices to the voters will receive electronic copies, or paper copies may be picked up this weekend. I remain thankful to the council for their work in this matter.

Voters’ Meeting

The annual voters’ meeting was held on October 25th with an attendance of 11 people. Along with the discussion of our thankfulness for the ministry including three baptisms, the voters:

• Approved a budget of $171,000

• Approved the new facility use policy

• Introduced the new bylaws

Please pick up a packet of information at the information center. Thank you for participating!

Fall Work Day

Many hands make light work. Fall Work Day is Saturday, November 7th from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Most work will be outdoor and distanced. We do have a few inside tasks that need to be completed Please review the Work Day list to see where you can help and join us!

Staff and Volunteer Appreciation

“What are all these?”

Thanks to everyone who started signing cards to thank our volunteers. Be sure to stop by some time and leave a note of thanks.

If you’d like to leave a small gift for someone else, please label it and drop it in the box. That way we can let them sit and give them a gift all at once!

Join me in worship on November 8th or 15th to thank our volunteers

Forward in Christ (and other subscriptions)

Our synod offers two main periodicals: Forward in Christ (a monthly magazine) and Meditations (a quarterly devotion booklet).

We help individuals who want to receive paper editions subscribe. We receive a discount that way. If you’d like to subscribe to either of these, now is the time. Please speak with pastor.

These periodicals are also available electronically.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Jeanne Myers’ uncle - hospitalized with COVID

• the Peace family with COVID

• Don Grubius, lost his wife Donna Grubius recently

Other notes

• November Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices (box for food in the family center)

• Want to donate candy for Trunk or Treat? We’re accepting candy in the box in the family center!

• Steve Smith of Triune Music worked on the organ for a couple of hours this week

• We could still use a few people as Trunk or Treat hosts. Outdoor only. Distanced. Please wear masks as appropriate.

I’m studying and you could try

• 1517 “Is America a Christian Nation” https://youtu.be/0lMZZWfGIZQ

• “Why are people leaving the church?” https://youtu.be/6nQgP2rHcQM

• Pastor James Hein, “Midwestern Church Going Idolatry” https://pastorjameshein.wordpress.com/2014/11/13/midwestern-church-going-idolatry/

• Jeff Cloeter, “A Pastoral Letter on the 2020 election”

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• October 31st, 5:30 - 6:45 pm Trunk or Treat

• November 3rd 6:30 Bylaws Q & A

• November 7th, 9:00 am Fall workday (list)

• November 8th and 15th Volunteer (and staff) appreciation

• November 8th, 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew (leave at 4)

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 for Peace October 23, 2020

The Lord is my strength and defense; he has become my salvation. Exodus 15:2

Notice and warning regarding the coronavirus

We love you all in Jesus. We are thankful for chances to worship Jesus, to receive God’s gospel, and to bless one another.

We regret to inform you that a person who appears to have the COVID-19 virus was at the 9:00 am service on Sunday October 18th. This person has not tested positive yet, but has many symptoms.

Please join us in the following:

·      Pray for this individual and their family

·      Monitor your own health and symptoms carefully

·      Stay home if you show symptoms of the virus, or know you have been exposed to the virus lately

·      If you were at the service on October 18th, we encourage you to take a week or two off and monitor your health

Jesus is worthy of all glory and honor and praise. Love for him creates the most powerful community. We will have services on the 25th at both 9 and 10:45, and study.

If you don’t feel safe joining, please don’t. At the same time, don’t give up meeting together. We’d be glad to partner with you in another way.

Sincerely, Pastor and the council of Peace

Dear friend,

I’m sure you, like me, have seen local cases on the rise. In the last week, I’ve gone from knowing only a few individuals afflicted with the virus to quite a few. A dear professor is leaving this world. A member is losing a relative.

These are good losses to grieve. No matter our thoughts on the pandemic and the politics, we’ve experienced real losses.

I’m thankful for good friends with whom I can grieve these difficult months. We listened to each other’s sorrows. We suffered together. We watch together for hope.

Won’t you join me this week online or on-site (if you are safe)? Let’s be friends.

We had about 55 in the 9:00 am service and about 35 in the 10:45 last week. About 6 Wednesday nights 6:30 study all with masks.

We recognize that the number of cases in the greater area is on the rise. At this point, we are not changing the plan for services. We are monitoring the situation.

Please make good choices for yourself and others. Please feel free to contact pastor to discuss a good course of action for yourself.

If you have symptoms, please stay home. Please respect others on site.

If you choose to stay home or just can’t make it, be sure to join us online at either time!

https://peaceotsego.org/worship https://facebook.com/peaceotsego https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX3B2OTwow_niCr4O73yEQA?

Love to have you!

Pastor Timmermann

Restructuring (new bylaws)

The council has recently recommended an entirely new structure to the congregation in the form of new bylaws.

This begins a process of review leading to adoption. After an introduction, we’ll offer multiple Q & A sessions.

• October 25th 12:00 voters’ meeting - introduce bylaws

• November 3rd, 6:30 pm Q & A

• November 16th, 6:30 pm Q & A

• December 1st, 6:30 pm Q & A

• December 6th, 12:00 pm Q & A

Please consider attending a session or finding your own time for questions.

The council will ask the congregation, God willing, to adopt the new bylaws on January 31, 2021.

Individuals signed up for notices to the voters will receive electronic copies, or paper copies may be picked up this weekend. I remain thankful to the council for their work in this matter.

Staff and Volunteer Appreciation

I think it was the second week of the pandemic that Kaitlyn N, home from school, asked if she could sing for services. Nearly every week since she has made our services more beautiful. Our worship would not be the same without her.

Let’s celebrate our staff and volunteers this November.

• Between now and November 7th, sign a few cards and leave messages for some of our hardworking people

• Consider sharing a small fun gift (labeled, in a box to pass out later)

• Join me in worship on November 8th or 15th to thank our volunteers

Join me for this great study of the biblical teaching of the end times.

• Sunday 8:00 am

• Wednesday night 6:30 pm

• Thursday night 7:00 pm online (contact pastor to get connected)

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The Wedge family - their uncle John passed

• Students of Plainwell Community Schools - shift to virtual learning

Other notes

• October Christian Neighbors items are assorted hamburger and tuna helper (box for food in the family center)

• Want to donate candy for Trunk or Treat? We’re accepting candy in the box in the family center!

• If you wanted the voters’ meeting information and didn’t get it, be sure to sign up here so it can be sent to you.

• November calendar is available at the information table

I’m studying and you could try

• The friends and enemies of Martin Luther

• WELS “Ministering to Millennials Playbook”

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• October 25th 12:00 Voters’ meeting - approve the budget, facility use policy

  • Those who wish to join online may do so through Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8189384084?pwd=UzkzNVJnRDBheGIvNWZqWUV5eERIZz09 with the password “peace” or through the regular RingCentral/call-in

• October 31st, 5:30 - 6:45 pm Trunk or Treat

• November 7th, 9:00 am Fall workday (list)

• November 8th and 15th Volunteer (and staff) appreciation

• November 8th, 5:00 pm 131 Youth Crew (leave at 4)

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 for Peace October 15, 2020

“He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 1:8

Dear friend,

I’m grateful this week for our elected leaders at Peace. They’ve consistently shown up, been honest, and when needed, confronted and forgiven each other throughout the pandemic.

Recently, they’ve finished

• a complete restructuring (new bylaws)

• a new facility use policy

• a budget

They’ve done well, even as they’ve learned to have virtual meetings and shared good news with friends and neighbors.

I'm excited to see what comes next as God works through these men and their work. Join us!

If you see Ron, Charlie, Jon, or Shawn, please thank them and encourage them. They’ve done well!

We had about 55 in the 9:00 am service and about 15 in the 10:45 last week. About 6-10 Wednesday nights 6:30 study all with masks. If you have symptoms, please stay home. Please respect others on site.

Love to have you!

Pastor Timmermann

In 2014, Gary’s story came to an end. It wasn’t an easy end. It was full of pain and darkness. He went home from the hospital. I think it was a Tuesday afternoon. He shot himself. That didn’t finish the story. That took a few more days.

He was disenchanted with life. He had no work. He was lonely. He was conflicted with friends and family. He saw nothing better down the road.

How we imagine the end of all things deeply changes our stories. Starting October 21st, we’ll look at the end of all our stories in our studies:

• Sundays at 8:00 am

• Wednesdays at 6:30 pm

• Thursday online at 7:00 pm — NEW!!! (October 22nd)

Restructuring (new bylaws)

The council has recently recommended an entirely new structure to the congregation in the form of new bylaws.

This begins a process of review leading to adoption. The council will ask the congregation, God willing, to adopt the new bylaws on January 31, 2021. Between now and then, we’d like to spend a good amount of time explaining and instructing bylaws to anyone who wants to know.

For now, please know that I am deeply grateful to our elected leaders for their work. This has been decades in the making. This has taken massive effort over the last year. I thank them for their work.

Staff and Volunteer Appreciation

I think it was the second week of the pandemic that Kaitlyn N, home from school, asked if she could sing for services. Nearly every week since she has made our services more beautiful. Our worship would not be the same without her.

Let’s celebrate our staff and volunteers this November. Plan to join me November 8th and 15th!

Who is on the team? Let me know who else we need!

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The family of Gloria Osgood - Kathy, Phil, and Esther - At this time, we have no information about a memorial, funeral service, or burial.

Other notes

• October Christian Neighbors items are assorted hamburger and tuna helper (box for food in the family center)

• Want to donate candy for Trunk or Treat? We’re accepting candy in the box in the family center!

  I’m studying and you could try

• Dave Malnes, “5 Ways to Stay Ahead of the Curve During the Pandemic”

• Martin Luther, The Freedom of the Christian

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• October 18th 12:00 Open Forum - review budget, facility use policy, and preview new bylaws

• October 25th 12:00 Voters’ meeting - approve the budget, facility use policy

• October 31st, 5:30 - 6:45 Trunk or Treat

• November 7th 9:00 Fall workday (list)

• November 8th and 15th Volunteer (and staff) appreciation

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 for Peace October 08, 2020

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourself. Do what it says. James 1:22

Dear friend,

How good is life? I’m praying it’s good. I know it’s complicated.

I know some people are doing well. Jobs, food, family.

I know others are struggling.

God would say so much more. He would point out that we’re wrecks, far worse off than we imagined. We’re also much slower to obey and follow than we realize.

He would also point that because of and through Jesus, we’re better off, we’re doing better, and we’re obeying even when we don’t realize.

Can you admit that? Can you speak that truth? That is real integrity. That is real honesty.

Join me for worship this weekend.

We have about 60 in the 9:00 am service and about 25 in the 10:45. About 6-10 Wednesday nights all with masks. If you have symptoms, please stay home. Please respect others on site.

Love to have you!

Pastor Timmermann

Trunk or Treat 2020

Trunk or Treat should be on! Hope to have some safe fun with you and your families. Invite friends and family!

In 2014, Gary’s story came to an end. It wasn’t an easy end. It was full of pain and darkness. He went home from the hospital. I think it was a Tuesday afternoon. He shot himself. That didn’t finish the story. That took a few more days.

He was disenchanted with life. He had no work. He was lonely. He was conflicted with friends and family. He saw nothing better down the road.

How we imagine the end of all things deeply changes our stories. Starting October 21st, we’ll look at the end of all our stories in our studies:

• Sundays at 8:00 am

• Wednesdays at 6:30 pm

• Thursday online at 7:00 pm — NEW!!! (October 22nd)

Facility Use Policy Update

Our facility is provided through God’s benevolence and by the generosity of our congregation.

In order to keep the facility and grounds available for ministry, we are excited to clarify our facility use policy.

We desire to bring great opportunities to our Peace family. The new policy will welcome both members and the community of the greater Otsego-Plainwell area within limitations. Link below for FAQ’s and the full policy.

Discussion and questions

Questions? Comments? Concerns?

• Call pastor at 269-694-6104 or Jon Ott (maintenance)

• Join pastor and Jon via Zoom on October 15 at 6:30 pm - click here to join or contact pastor for info

• Discuss on October 18th Open Forum - limited time, budget

• Approve at October 25th Voters’ meeting.

Staff and Volunteer Appreciation

I think it was the second week of the pandemic that Kaitlyn N, home from school, asked if she could sing for services. Nearly every week since she has made our services more beautiful. Our worship would not be the same without her.

Let’s celebrate our staff and volunteers this November. Plan to join me November 8th and 15th!

Who is on the team? Let me know who else we need!

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The family of Gloria Osgood - Kathy, Phil, and Esther - please note, we don’t have any information about a memorial, funeral, or burial

• The election

Other notes

• October Christian Neighbors items are assorted hamburger and tuna helper (box for food in the family center)

• Christian Family Solutions Impact Event - a new time coming up to experience the work of Christian Family Solutions firsthand - counseling, wellness, and senior care

  I’m studying and you could try

• Dave Malnes, “5 Ways to Stay Ahead of the Curve in the Pandemic”

• Martin Luther, The Freedom of the Christian - I just finished reading this with other pastors
  

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• October 18th 12:00 Open Forum - review budget

• October 25th 12:00 Voters’ meeting - approve the budget, facility use policy

• October 31st 5:30 - 6:45 Trunk or Treat - invite friends and family; (note due to high interest if you feel comfortable, come host!

• November 1st - Reformation

• November 7 9:00 Fall workday (list

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 for Peace October 02, 2020

You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. John 8:32

Dear friend,

No matter which side of the political discussion we stand on right now (or we’re trying to straddle the middle!), I think we all see behavior (not just positions) that disappoint us. How should we respond?

• First, we model the behavior we want to see.

  • We repent of our own failures to behave properly

  • We seek grace from God and people who love us to live differently

• Second, we honor and respect these individuals publicly and privately, while we use our voices to direct and encourage. We may send a phone call, a letter, or a polite email.

• Third, we encourage the next generation to step forward and be even more faithful to their calling.

This week God gives us a break from all the politics with wisdom about money. If you would like to improve your financial health, this is a great week for God’s Good Life.

Love to have you!

Reminders: If you have symptoms, please stay home. Please respect and love others - follow guidelines.

Sunday Services at 9 indoor and 10:45 outdoor!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Movie night

October 4th 7:00 pm

 Last call for Trunk or Treat sign up!! 

Saturday, October 31st

5:30 pm - 6:45pm

We need at least 6 more trunks for this event!

Please sign up below if you’d like to safely host.

Trunk or Treat Sign up!

Hometown Christmas Volunteers needed!

December 5th, 2020

The City of Otsego intends to celebrate Christmas downtown on December 5th.

We have the opportunity, if we are interested, to make many connections by handing out hot cocoa during the celebration.

If you are interested in helping us serve the city in this way, please submit your information here: Hot Cocoa Volunteer. We’ll have to do this safely, within health guidelines. We appreciate your continued volunteer spirit!

Facility Use Policy Update

Our facility is provided through God’s benevolence and by the generosity of our congregation.

In order to keep the facility and grounds available for ministry, we are excited to clarify our facility use policy.

We desire to bring great opportunities to our Peace family. The new policy will welcome both members and the community of the greater Otsego-Plainwell area within limitations. Link below for FAQ’s and the full policy.

Discussion and questions

Questions? Comments? Concerns?

• Call pastor at 269-694-6104 or Jon Ott (maintenance)

• Join pastor and Jon via Zoom on October 15 at 6:30 pm - contact pastor for the info

• Discuss on October 18th Open Forum - limited time, budget

• Approve at October 25th Voters’ meeting.

Volunteer Appreciation

We won’t be able to welcome all the members home to Peace this fall. Instead, we’ll celebrate all our volunteers. Plan to be part of our special celebration in November. For now, start looking for a small, fun gift for your favorite Peace volunteer!

Prayers (full prayer list)

Other notes

• Speakers will be temporarily removed from the alcoves for testing - see audio updates

• October Christian Neighbors items are assorted hamburger and tuna helper (box for food in the family center)

• Starting on October 11th, the second service will be moved indoors

• We collect Meditations, Portals of Prayer, and Time of Grace devotion materials for prison ministry in the family center

  I’m studying and you could try

• Managing Leadership Anxiety

• An emotional intelligence test - how good are you at reading others?

• An overview of church size
  

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

• October 4th, 7:00 pm “Christopher Robin” movie night

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

• October 18th 12:00 Open Forum - review budget

• October 25th 12:00 Voters’ meeting - approve the budget, facility use policy

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 for Peace September 24, 2020

and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding with knowledge and with all kinds of skills- Exodus 31:3

Dear friend,

In your opinion, what takes the most humility in life?

• Washing someone else’s stinky feet?

• Admitting you were wrong?

• Accepting correction?

• Asking for forgiveness?

• Accepting forgiveness?

• Forgiving someone else?

• And the list could go on for quite a while….

We’re filling our wall with wisdom from the Word for the good life. If you’d like to grow in wisdom and add to ours, join us this week!

Sunday Services at 9 indoor and 10:45 outdoor!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Movie night

October 4th 7:00 pm

Trunk or Treat

Saturday, October 31st

5:30 pm - 6:45pm

We are looking for trunk hosts and volunteers to help with Trunk or Treat this year. We need at least 10 trunks signed up by September 30th! If you would like to volunteer or host a trunk please fill out the form.

Volunteer Form

Hometown Christmas Volunteers needed!

December 5th, 2020

The City of Otsego intends to celebrate Christmas downtown on December 5th.

We have the opportunity, if we are interested, to make many connections by handing out hot cocoa during the celebration.

If you are interested helping us serve the city in this way, please submit your information here: Hot Cocoa Volunteer. We’ll have to do this safely, within health guidelines. We appreciate your continued volunteer spirit!

Facility Use Policy Update

Our facility is provided through God’s benevolence and by the generosity of our congregation.

In order to keep the facility and grounds available for ministry, we are excited to clarify our facility use policy.

We desire to bring great opportunities to our Peace family. The new policy will welcome both memebers and the community of the greater Otsego-Plainwell area within limitations. Policy changes include:

• All the facilities and grounds of Peace Lutheran Church may be used by both members and people of the greater Otsego-Plainwell area, except for the sanctuary

• Those who are not members may only host or offer nonreligious activities

• Other clarifications of use must be in accord with our insurance company suggested policy and WELS related policy

• Scheduling of the use of the facility and grounds should be done through the office. First come first served based on requests in writing

• Use of the grounds by Peace will be prioritized. However, previously scheduled community activities may not be cancelled if a Peace activity was not on the calendar

• The building and grounds chairman and pastor will make the decision regarding use. Questionable situations should be brought to the council

• So as to avoid confusion regarding income, while community groups are encouraged to give a donation in thanks for the use and the community participation, such a donation is not to be understood as payment for the use

• Anyone who uses the facility is responsible for cleaning it unless prior arrangement has been made

• Outside individuals or groups with insurance should add Peace as an insured if possible, or put their insurance on file at Peace

• Use of the facility must be approved by the insurance company

• All those who use the facility should operate in good faith and avoid holding Peace or any individuals liable

Please bring questions and suggestions regarding facility use to pastor or Jon Ott (maintenance) before October 18th. On that day, we’ll discuss it at the open forum. The policy will God will be approved on October 25th at the voters’ meeting.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The family of Erma Wamhoff

• Rick Ward - released from the hospital

• Gloria Osgood - cancer

• City clerks

  Other notes

• Speakers will be temporarily removed from the alcoves for testing - see audio updates

• September Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices

• Fall 2020 ministry plan - full version

  I’m studying and you could try

• A conversion on good practices of churches that are actually delivering the gospel to people who did not know it before

• “Watching our nation burn” - on wildfires

• “My Christian life” - stories how WELS members are living confidently and humbly in Jesus

• Basics of church sound systems - we’re trying to make the audio better

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

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

• October 18th 12:00 Open Forum - review budget

• October 25th 12:00 Voters’ meeting - approve budget, facility use policy

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 for Peace September 17, 2020

And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. Deuteronomy 10:12

Dear friend,

I don’t like being wrong. I really appreciate the people in my life who kindly, thoughtfully point out the mistakes that are hindering my life as a Christian.

Sunday Services at 9 indoor and 10:45 outdoor!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Fall ministry

Our fall ministry is off to a great start!

Over 90 people came together indoors and out to hear the gospel of Jesus and celebrate what God is doing in their lives. There is still space in the two services, although if you are a high-risk individual the best gathering for you is the Wednesday Study and Supper. That event only has 5 to 10 individuals. We meet for about 30 minutes of study and conversation. Then we share in communion. Lots of space, masks enforced!

We had more than 10 kids join in our distanced kids class. Let pastor know if your kid or grandkid wants to join!

131 Youth Crew and Kzoo College is starting in the coming weeks. Can’t wait to see you all!

Trunk or Treat

Saturday, October 31st

5:30 pm - 6:45pm

We are looking for trunk hosts and volunteers to help with Trunk or Treat this year. We need at least 10 trunks signed up by September 31st! If you would like to volunteer or host a trunk please fill out the form.

Volunteer Form

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Rick Ward, hospitalized for complications related to cancer treatment

  Other notes

• September Christian Neighbors items are assorted fruits and juices

• Fall 2020 ministry plan - full version

• Fall 2020 usher guidelines

  Upcoming events (full calendar)

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

• October 18th 12:00 Open Forum - review budget

• October 25th 12:00 Voters’ meeting - approve the budget

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