Good news for Peace March 17

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

Dear friend,

No matter how much we’ve gone through in the last year, we haven’t endured as much as Jesus went through. Even though he wasn’t physically abused during his life, he experienced many challenges. He expressed many cries and prayers. And he ended his life in pain.

I’m sorry you’ve gone through what you’ve gone through. You’re suffering is real and should be recognized, no matter who you are. I hope you have someone to listen to you and sit with you.

The Scriptures show us that there aren’t quick and easy ways out of suffering. We simply go through it and trust the Lord will help us endure. One question: what good is God up to here? Maybe that one will help you and the people you love as you suffer.

God be with you until services at 9:00 or 10:45

Pastor Timmermann

All kids are welcome to our egg hunt on Sunday, April 4th. The egg hunt will start at 10:20 am, in between services.

If your kids will be joining us, we invite you to let us know by signing up below.

We’ve got more than enough candy. Thanks for your donations!

Holy Week

Holy Week is one of the most important weeks of the year for followers of Jesus.

It is the week we see how our Lord and Savior won life for us. It is the week we receive both forgiveness and righteousness.

On Maundy Thursday, April 1st at 6:30 p.m., we receive forgiveness in, with, and under the bread and wine that he gives us.

On Good Friday, April 2nd at 6:30 p.m., we adore his sacrifice on the cross.

On Easter Sunday, April 4th at 9:00 and 10:45 a.m. we celebrate his victory over sin, death, and the devil so that we can live.

I hope you will join us for all these gatherings.

Streaming change

For those who worship with us on our website, I wanted to mention to you that you’ll experience a slight change this week. Our provider is changing the app and we’ll be using the Youtube player. Please email or text 269-694-6104 if you experience problems.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The Easter celebration

Other notes (more ministry items)

• Christian Neighbors items for March are boxed potatoes and rice sides

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• March 28th Palm Sunday

• April 1st, 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday worship

• April 2nd, 6:30 pm Good Friday worship

• April 4th, 9:00 and 10:45 am Easter worship

  I’m studying and you could try

• Annie Duke, How to Decide Annie Duke - How To Decide - Speaker - Author - Decision Strategist

• “Covert MI: A History in Black and White”

• 3 Ways Grandparents Can Leave a Legacy of Faith (crosswalk.com)

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

Pastor Timmermann will continue serving at Peace

Dear friends in Jesus,

We endure a lot of struggles and trials as we follow Jesus. Peace has experienced its share of difficulties in recent years. There will undoubtedly be more in the years to come.

The Triune God has been with us through all of them. His Word is up to good things. He has given us good reason to trust in his active presence. 

That’s the main reason I’m announcing that I will stay at Peace and I have declined the call to Saint Lucas in Milwaukee. God is at work through us by his Word and Sacraments.  

Thank you for all your prayers and encouragement during this process. They have been helpful. I’ve heard you and hope we keep on talking.

We’ve got plenty to do to be a congregation where people feel like they belong, where people far from the Lord clearly hear the gospel, and where we carry out the work God has given us with humility and confidence. I’m glad to partner with you in bringing people the gospel of Jesus. Let’s enjoy this! 

In Christ, 

Nathaniel Timmermann, along with Rachel, Clara, Lillian, Marie, Josiah, and Alex

Good news for Peace March 10

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. Jeremiah 31:3

Dear friend,

One year. Can you believe it? One year since the pandemic started.

I'm amazed and thankful that after a year we still don't have a single example of community spread among us. More than a few of us have come down with the virus. We also know many others who got sick. But still, no one at a service has passed on the virus to someone else.

Thank you for caring for others. I’m glad we can all expect to stay safe and well at our gatherings. No matter who you are, I hope you feel safe at our services and events. Let’s worship the Savior!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Certain Hope - Easter 2021

I’m convinced that we’ll need a lot of hope to get out of the pandemic, the tension, and the changes we’re experiencing right now. Let’s get together and get some hope!

Let’s get together for services (9:00 and 10:45), a light breakfast (10:00), and an egg hunt (10:20).

We’ve launched a sign up to better serve you. If you’re planning to be with us for Easter and especially if you’re bringing friends and family, sign up! Pick up an invite card on-site to remind yourself and invite friends.

Mission!

I’m glad we clearly know what we’re about - bringing people the gospel of Jesus! Many thanks to Eda and Sharon for getting this up on the wall! It was a big project and they did a great job.

Memorial Day Helpers

Peace would love to honor our loved ones for Memorial Day again this year. Let’s work together on what we should do! If you are interested in helping in any way, please contact the office.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Julie H safety after surgery and recovery

• Pat G rehab

Other notes

• We’ve almost collected enough candy for the Easter egg hunt. Thanks! Check out this link for our progress!

• Christian Neighbors items for March are boxed potatoes and rice sides

• Shawn Gavan has agreed to serve as a lawnmower coordinator for the year. For details click here. If he contacts you, please respond graciously!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• March 28th Palm Sunday

• April 1st, 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday worship

• April 2nd, 6:30 pm Good Friday worship

• April 4th, 9:00 and 10:45 am Easter worship

  I’m studying and you could try

• https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2021/march/beth-moore-southern-baptist-women-ministry-sbc.html

• https://www.newyorker.com/news/daily-comment/the-wasting-of-the-evangelical-mind/

• https://religioninpublic.blog/2021/02/26/does-the-american-public-think-there-are-more-than-two-genders/

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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 March 4

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

Dear friend,

Did you leave a marker of your “pivot place of grace”? If you didn’t watch this video and add one this coming Sunday.

Markers of a pivot place of grace

Enjoy all of last week’s sermon to learn more.

This week, we’re getting filled with a new spirit. As we experience a pandemic and so many difficulties, we need to come alive with a new spirit and fervor for life. Can’t wait to see you this weekend!

It might be just the breath of fresh air you need! See you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:45.

If you missed last week, check out the sermon at https://peaceotsego.org/messages.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Certain Hope - Easter 2021

I’m convinced that we’ll need a lot of hope to get out of the pandemic, the tension, and the changes we’re experiencing right now. Let’s get together and get some hope!

Pick up an invite card on-site to remind yourself and invite friends.

Easter services on Sunday, April 4th at 9:00 and 10:45!

Easter Breakfast

We are looking for one or two volunteers to join a team to help coordinate Easter breakfast. If you would be willing to volunteer please contact the office.

Memorial Day Helpers

Memorial Day is quickly approaching and we would like to honor our vets again this year. We don’t know exactly what that will look like yet, but we are looking for some volunteers to help us come up with ideas and execute our plans. If you are willing to lend us some help please contact the office.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Thanksgiving for a good surgery for John, Sharon Ward’s brother

Other notes

• If you would like to donate flowers for Easter, please respond to this email and we’ll put you down on the list or sign up at church. Tulips or Lilies are available for $9

• Please drop off candy for our Easter egg hunt to the tote in the office as soon as possible. Check out this link for our progress!

• Christian Neighbors items for March are boxed potatoes and rice sides

• We're looking for a lawnmower coordinator for this summer. For details click here. Please call the church office.

• March ushers are Kart Wedge and Jason Hayes

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• March 28th Palm Sunday

• April 1st, 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday worship

• April 2nd, 6:30 pm Good Friday worship

• April 4th, 9:00 and 10:45 am Easter worship
  

I’m studying and you could try

• The WELS is paying attention to the Equality Act

• The largest evangelical adoption agency, based in Michigan, has changed its position on placement

• Methodism in American is changing Global Methodism’s New Church (thegospelcoalition.org)

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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

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Good news for Peace February 25th

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law. 

Galatians 5:22-23

Dear friend,

Most people I know have specific places where they feel or think they are assured of God’s grace. I talk to many people who would not consider the physical church building that place. Even though the physical church building means a lot to me, it is probably not my memorable place of grace.

That’s probably okay. This week we’re taking a look at Jacob. He had a memorable experience of God at a place called Bethel. He put up a marker there so he would never forget the place.

If you read in Genesis 25 to about 32, I think you can see that Genesis 28 is a pivot point in his life. Jacob experiences a profound change at that place and its good.

God’s Word this week just might be the pivot you (or your friends) need! See you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:45.

If you missed last week, check out the sermon at https://peaceotsego.org/messages.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Certain Hope - Easter 2021

I’m convinced that we’ll need a lot of hope to get out of the pandemic, the tension, and the changes we’re experiencing right now. Let’s get together and get some hope!

Start talking to your friends and neighbors; make plans to join us this Easter! Pick up an invite card on-site to remind yourself and invite friends.

Easter services on Sunday, April 4th at 9:00 and 10:45!

Easter flowers

To glorify God and emphasize the miracle of the resurrection we invite everyone to donate flowers for Easter. Flowers during Easter beautify the sanctuary and symbolize new hope, life, and beginnings. Many people donate these flowers to honor their memory of a loved one.

If you would like to donate flowers for Easter, please respond to this email and we’ll put you down on the list or sign up at church.

• Lilies and tulips $9 each

• Please pay Jeanne Ueck or Ann Kling by March 28th

We had a great time sledding last Sunday! We missed you.

Easter Egg Donations

Easter is quickly approaching and it’s time to start collecting candy for the Easter egg hunt. With 2,000 Easter eggs to fill we need your help. Please:

• Purchase individually wrapped small candy (smarties are too big)

• Place the candy in the designated tote in the office as soon as possible

Help install a wheelchair ramp

A contact from church needs a wheel chair ramp. Jon Ott has graciously offered one. He could use up to four people for to hours to install it this week. Please contact the church office if you can help.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Lenten repentance and renewal

• Those confined to home so they can’t worship, especially during the pandemic - Phyllis Curtis, Judy Haugh, Walter Heinichen, Larry Hutchinson, Maxine Sandahl, Carlene White, Ray Winkel
  

Other notes

• Christian Neighbors items for February are pasta noodles and sauce

• We're looking for a lawnmower coordinator for this summer. For details click here. Please call the church office.

• March ushers are Kart Wedge and Jason Hayes

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• February 28th 12 pm Catechism

• March 28th Palm Sunday

• April 1st 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday worship
  

I’m studying and you could try

• Ravi Zacharias and the Judgment of God Ravi Zacharias and the Judgment of God (thegospelcoalition.org)

• The WELS call process WELS’ call process – WELS

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 February 18th

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18

Dear friend,

The time when a pastor receives a call can be exhausting and exhilarating. We get the chance to look for God’s work even more carefully. For example, I’m very cautious about this call. This morning I read that God’s people responded to the exodus from Egypt with fear. I realized that part of my caution is not all bad. That caution/fear may come from God’s mighty work.

I pray you all experience God’s mighty work.

We’ve got two service options, 9:00 and 10:45, both with good amounts of space. Come, worship, and know the glory of God. If you missed last week, check out the sermon at https://peaceotsego.org/messages.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

Grab your favorite sled and join us for an afternoon of fun

@ Kindleberger Park on Sunday @ 3:30 pm

Flowers

Peace accepts flower donations weekly as a way of beautifying the worship space. Individuals often donate flowers in memory of someone or for a special occasion. This is another way we give offerings to the glory of God. Our offerings are not just financial, but physical and beautiful because God is beautiful. 

If you decide to donate flowers, first sign up by contacting pastor. You should select your own flowers from the florist of your choosing and bring them by Sunday morning. If you would like, you can order flowers from a number of local and the florist will deliver them for you. 

After the service on Sunday, you may bring your flowers home. 

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Those without power, heat, water, etc in emergency situations around the US

• the Timmermann family and Peace

Other notes

• Christian Neighbors items for February are pasta noodles and sauce

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• February 21st, 3:30 pm Sledding @ Kindleberger Park

• February 28th, 12 pm Catechism

I’m studying and you could try

• Ravi Zacharias and the Judgment of God Ravi Zacharias and the Judgment of God (thegospelcoalition.org)

• The WELS call process WELS’ call process – WELS

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

Pastor has received a request to serve at another congregation

Dear friends in Jesus,

We wanted to let you know that Pastor Timmermann has received a request from another church to serve as their pastor. He shared the following letter with us this Sunday.

“I’m honored to already serve God’s people at Peace in Otsego. Together we get to bring the gospel of Jesus to the greater Otsego – Plainwell community. I would like to announce that God’s people have also asked me to serve at Saint Lucas Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, WI.  

Our Christian churches call these requests to serve in a specific place “calls” or “divine calls”. Over the coming weeks, my family and I will deliberate both calls. I will seek God’s guidance through his Word and his people. I will consider many factors. I’d like to invite individuals at both congregations to provide input and counsel as they desire. May God be at work for the good of his kingdom.  

This call does not mean that we’re looking to leave Peace. We’re grateful for the people, the community, and the ministry. We are not obligated to accept the new call to serve at Saint Lucas. Both calls are equally valid. We will follow God’s guidance through his Word, his people, and who he has made us to be.  

We’ll deliberate these calls for some time, about 4 weeks. Lent may add some challenges to the process. Again, to reiterate, people at both congregations are invited to reach out with prayers, encouragement, and wisdom. I will announce a decision when we’ve made one at a Sunday service.  

Whatever challenges a pandemic, politics, and cultural shifts may bring us, the gospel of Jesus will keep working. I ask everyone in both Milwaukee and Otsego to join us in prayer.  

In Christ, 

Nathaniel Timmermann, along with Rachel, Clara, Lillian, Marie, Josiah, and Alex” 

Please do reach out to pastor, whether that is simply to share you are praying for him or with other thoughts. May God be with us all.

Please feel free to reach out at 269-694-6104 or church@peaceotsego.org. Thanks!

Good news for Peace February 11th

May God be gracious to us and bless us. Psalm 67:1

Dear friend,

With vaccine rollouts, new cases on the decline, and kids returning to school, we’re starting to feel like there is some light at the end of the tunnel. I appreciate the renewed spirits I’m seeing in many of you.

I hope you have some moments of glory - of light, of hope, and exuberance - some incredible mountaintop experiences that you can take away from this time. I hope these moments will give you strength to go forward.

That’s what we’re checking out this week at services. What does an experience of the incredible glory of God do for us? So many things. I want those great things for you.

We’ve got two service options, 9:00 and 10:45, both with good amounts of space. Come, worship, and know the glory of God. If you missed last week, check out the sermon at https://peaceotsego.org/messages.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Happy Valentine’s Day! Enjoy his incredible love!

See you Wednesday February 17th at 6:30 pm for Lenten worship.

Meditations

The devotion booklet series “Meditations” is available by subscription. Meditations Daily Devotionals for personal use (nph.net).

If you confirmed your subscription for 2021, please pay $16 either directly to Shirley or Charlie Kling; or put a check in the offering with the note “Meditations”.

HEAR

I’m really glad and proud of our group of people that has come together to hear the Word. We’re journaling and talking together to encourage each other.

Reading God’s Word alone is good; reading with others can be great! Are you hearing the Word? Contact pastor to get a journal and join in.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Doris Paradine - surgery

• The Jane Henke family on Jane's passing

Other notes

• Christian Neighbors items for February are pasta noodles and sauce

• Thanks to Roger, Jim, and Jon for their help with workday projects. Good progress!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• February 16th, 7:00 pm Council

• February 17th, 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday

I’m studying and you could try

• The Old Testament background to the Transfiguration from Chad Bird https://youtu.be/J-LMAP1P7D0

• WELS 2021 Annual Report 2021 – WELS

• The false gospel of assuming the worst of others The False Gospel of Assuming the Worst of Others (thegospelcoalition.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

Good news for Peace February 4th

The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Dear friend,

I know last week was a snowy one that kept many of us home. If you missed the sermon, check it out here.

We had a good message this last week on who we work for. Who are you working for?

This week, we’ll get new power for our work. Power is something we all need. It's too easy to run out of power to get everything done.

Thank you for following the relevant local guidelines for health. We had about 30 at 9 am and about 20 at 10:45, so there is lots of space! Join us.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

The Hands of Passion

Lenten services beginning February 17th at 6:30 pm

Everywhere we look, we see hands at work. In the passion of Jesus, there are many hands.

What are your hands doing?

Admit, heal, and do things differently with your hands.

Join pastor (we will not share pulpits in 2021) for Lenten services at 6:30 pm starting February 17th. We’ll culminate our services on April 1st with Maundy Thursday and April 2nd with Good Friday.

Winter Work Day

February 6th, 9:00 - 12:00

Indoor tasks to keep the ministry moving well!

Join us! Plenty of space.

2021 annual meeting (voters’ meeting)

Thank you to all who participated in our 2021 annual meeting. We:

1. approved the new bylaws Restructuring (Bylaws update) – Peace Lutheran Church (peaceotsego.church)

2. elected new council/officers. Officer elections 2021 – Peace Lutheran Church (peaceotsego.church)

3. reviewed reports, most specifically discussing combining the two services

Next steps

1. Bylaws - now that the new bylaws have been approved, we’ll follow them for congregational purposes. We’ll look to implement edits. We’ll also work with the district’s constitution committee to make sure our bylaws are accepted.

2. Council - the new council composed of Charlie Kling (president), Roger Commissaris (vice-president/treasurer), and Tom Wright (elder), along with pastor, will begin meeting in February.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Sharon Edgerton’s daughter in law - diagnosed with COVID

Other notes

• Christian Neighbors items for February are pasta noodles and sauce

• Ushers for February are Josh Gower and Gary Coombs

• Serving the weekend of February 7

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• February 6th, 9:00 am Winter workday

• February 8th, 6:30 pm Christianity Explored

• February 16th, 7:00 pm Council

• February 17th, 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday

I’m studying and you could try

• Time of Grace “Seeking God Every Day” January 2021 Seeking GOD Every Day 365 Devotional | Time of Grace (raisedonors.com)

• Gene Veith, God at Work God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life: Gene Edward Veith Jr.: 9781433524479 - Christianbook.com

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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 January 28

Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools. Ecclesiastes 7:9

Dear friend,

It’s a new year and there is new work to do. Who needs your work? Yourself? Friends? Family? Neighbors and acquaintances? Your city? Or people on the other side of the world? One thing that changes our work is to think again about who we are working for and who benefits from it.

Speaking of work, Pastor Timmermann is back at work. He is bringing us more good news for our work based on Mark chapter 1 this week. Catch up on our recent sermons at Messages — Peace (peaceotsego.org). There you can find video, audio, and text.

We had about 30 in early service and about 20 in the later service last week, so there is lots of space! Join us.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Restructuring/new bylaws

Sunday January 31st marks a big day at Peace. God willing, we’ll vote to put new bylaws in place at Peace.

All members are invited to become informed about them, assess them, ask questions about them, and finally engage in the process - especially on Sunday. See Restructuring (Bylaws update) – Peace Lutheran Church (peaceotsego.church)

We’ve handled a number of questions over the last few months. Highlights include:

• Is this changing the doctrine of Peace? No. Peace proclaims Jesus’ teaching according to the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Check out what we believe. This We Believe – WELS

• Why these changes now? A number of reasons, including the fact that we wanted/needed new ways to function.

• Is this a significant change to our structure, or more of the small changes we tend to see? This is a significant restructuring to the congregation. The old system required 18 elected positions and another 5 or so appointed positions. The new system requires 4 elected positions and no appointed positions.

The Hands of Passion

Lenten services beginning February 17th at 6:30 pm

Everywhere we look, we see hands at work. In the passion of Jesus, there are many hands:

• hands that heal

• hands that hurt

• hands that stay away

• hands that are crushed

• hands that claim victory

What are your hands doing?

Admit, heal, and do things differently with your hands.

Join pastor (we will not share pulpits in 2021) for Lenten services at 6:30 pm starting February 17th. We’ll culminate our services on April 1st with Maundy Thursday and April 2nd with Good Friday.

Easter 2021

Easter services will be 9 and 10:45 on April 4th. There will not be a 7 am service. Look for more information to come. Start inviting friends and family!

Baptism

“Look here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized?” That’s what a man from Egypt said in the Bible when he heard the good news of Jesus. 

Why shouldn’t you be baptized? Easter is a great time of the year. It’s a time to celebrate Christ’s victory and success. There is no greater way to celebrate than baptism. 

If you aren’t baptized or you know someone who isn’t baptized, Easter is a great time to get baptized. Learn about baptism from this simple teaching on baptism, this sermon, and study materials on baptism, and I appreciate this outsider’s perspective on baptism in a Lutheran church. Check it out! 

Then call (269-694-6104) or email (church@peaceotsego.org) to set up your baptism!

Bring your sleds and join us for an afternoon of sledding! We’ll be sledding at Johnson Park in Walker this year. Hot chocolate and dinner will be provided.

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Thanksgiving for the good surgery for Gerald Scheppelman

Other notes

• Christian Neighbors items for January are canned soup and ramen noodles, but any items are welcome

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

• Serving the weekend of January 31st

• Our kids education/church during the service is up and running. Check out the schedule and join us at 9:20 each week!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• January 31st, 12:00 pm Voters’ meeting (approve bylaws, elect new council) https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/2731366456

• January 31st, 4:30 pm Sledding outing for 131 Youth Crew

• February 6th, 9:00 am Winter workday

• February 8th, 6:30 pm Christianity Explored

• February 17th, 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday

I’m studying and you could try

• This essay from Dr. Ken Cherney (WLS) is part of the basis for our current bible study on work. CherneyHidden.pdf (wisluthsem.org)

• A good encouragement for public confession in worship https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/corporate-worship-confession

• Have you read this series for kids from Andrew Peterson? The Wingfeather Saga — Andrew Peterson (andrew-peterson.com) He is a well-known singer and writer in Christian circles. Let us know if you like it; we’re trying a book out.

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 January 21

Lord, you give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you. Nehemiah 9:6

Dear friend,

I know that I often feel like my work isn’t worth it. Even as a pastor. And yet God calls us to work. He calls us to work with Jesus and to make his perfect work our own. That is work that is worth it.

If you missed our services last week, or any week, go to Messages — Peace (peaceotsego.org). There you can find video, audio, and text versions of the sermons, as well as links to the services.

I’m happy to welcome Mark Gieschen this weekend at Peace. We’ll follow our regular safety protocols at services.

We had 30 some in early service and about 15 in the later service last week, so there is lots of space! Join us.

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Christianity Explored

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! Sign up and bring a friend.

The Hands of the Passion

Lenten services beginning February 17th at 6:30 pm

Baptism

“Look here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized?” That’s what a man from Egypt said in the Bible when he heard the good news of Jesus. 

Why shouldn’t you be baptized? Easter is a great time of the year. It’s a time to celebrate Christ’s victory and success. There is no greater way to celebrate than baptism. 

If you aren’t baptized or you know someone who isn’t baptized, Easter is a great time to get baptized. Learn about baptism from this simple teaching on baptism, this sermon, and study materials on baptism, and I appreciate this outsider’s perspective on baptism in a Lutheran church. Check it out! 

Then call (269-694-6104) or email (church@peaceotsego.org) to set up your baptism!

Prayers (full prayer list)

• (no prayers at this point)

Other notes

• Christian Neighbors items for January are canned soup and ramen noodles, but any items are welcome

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

• Serving the weekend of January 24th

• Pastor will be out of town over the weekend of the 24th. He regrets any inconvenience this adds to church life after having COVID, but after discussion with council and the elders they decided to keep the weekend off instead of trying to reschedule. Please feel free to call the church office with normal requests and he’ll answer (269-694-6104 call or text). Please contact Don Seelhof over the weekend if the matter is urgent.

• We need to move the white freezer from the kitchen to the parsonage garage and clean it out. Can you help?

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• January 24th, 12:00 pm Open forum - both the open forum and voters’ meeting will be available at our video meeting platform (but not Zoom or Facebook, Youtube) https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/2731366456

• January 28th, 8:00 pm Thursday online study restarts - contact pastor to join

• January 31st, 12:00 pm Voters’ meeting (approve bylaws, elect new council) https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/2731366456

• January 31st, 4:30 pm Sledding outing for 131 Youth Crew

• February 6th, 9:00 am Winter workday

• February 8th, 6:30 pm Christianity Explored

• February 17th, 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday

I’m studying and you could try

• Ryan Burge, “Does Church Attendance Help to Reduce Perceptions of Polarization? Not Among White Conservatives”

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Good news for Peace January 14

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:5

Dear friend,

Hear God's call and get to work! What great news. Yes, the people around us need our work. We bring honor to God through our work. And most of all, we live as the people God calls us to be when we work.

Pastor Timmermann will be back with us this week. We’re thankful for the recovery God has given him. Thank you to the people who sent meals, prayed, sent cards, and called. What great encouragement!

We continue to follow basic practices for good health

• Please stay home if you're sick.

• We ask attendees to follow applicable state and local guidelines - distancing, masks, and hand washing.

Jesus redeemed us body and soul. Your soul matters so much to God that he became a man to win it back. Watch over it!

Services are Sunday 9:00 and 10:45. See you to hear the Word and worship God!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

131 Youth Crew Sledding

We’re excited for a sledding outing with all our middle school and high school students on January 31st. Leave Peace about 3:45, sled at 4:30.

Contact pastor with questions and to join. Click below for more!

HEAR

How will you learn to follow Jesus and grow in 2021? With a new year, we can make fresh habits to send ourselves on a new trajectory.

Contact the office and join me in the HEAR plan this year. I’ve got a great journal for each person who wants to be part of the group.

Jesus will guide us where he wants us to go!

Christmas decoration takedown

Thanks to all who helped take down Christmas decorations! Great work Roger, Cindy, Eda, Carlene, Ann, Ron, and Ellen.

Christianity Explored

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! Sign up and bring a friend.

I got to drop off the hats and gloves from the “Tree of Warmth” at the local elementary school. “Yes, we can definitely use them!"

Prayers (full prayer list)

• Paul Myers - recovery after surgery

• the country and our elected representatives

Other notes

• 2021 council nominations under way Nominations/appointments – Peace Lutheran Church (peaceotsego.church)

• Christian Neighbors items for January are canned soup and ramen noodles, but any items are welcome

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

• We would be helped if someone could take out the recycling by the family center door. Thank you!

• Serving the weekend of January 17th

• Pastor will be out of town over the weekend of the 24th. He regrets any inconvenience this adds to church life after having COVID, but after discussion with council and the elders they decided to keep the weekend off instead of trying to reschedule. Please feel free to call the church office with normal requests and he’ll answer (269-694-6104 call or text). Please contact Don Seelhof that weekend if the matter is urgent.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• January 24th 12:00 pm Open forum - both the open forum and voters’ meeting will be available at our video meeting platform (but not Zoom or Facebook, Youtube) https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/2731366456

• January 31th 12:00 pm Voters’ meeting (approve bylaws, elect new council) https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/2731366456

• January 31th 4:30 pm Sledding outing for 131 Youth Crew

• February 8 6:30 pm Christianity Explored

• February 17th 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday

I’m studying and you could try

• Encouragement for reaching friends and neighbors without a church The Unaffiliated Are Not the Unreachable: Understanding and Reaching the Nones | The Exchange | A Blog by Ed Stetzer (christianitytoday.com)

• How Then Should We Work? – Institute for Faith, Work & Economics Bookstore (tifwe.org)

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

Good news for Peace January 7

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:35

Dear friend,

Has your new year started well? Start it with God’s grace!

The elders, council, and I would like to thank Tom Wright for leading our services last week. Tom regularly displays faithfulness to God and a love for his Savior. He did a great job filling in at the last minute.

The reason Tom filled in is because I, pastor was first exposed to, then infected with, the coronavirus.

I’m doing well. Thank you for your concern. If you’d like to call, encourage, and check on me, please do so.

Here is what we’ve done to be safe

• We’ve talked to the health department and they’ve assured us we’re doing the right things

• Pastor is staying out of the building this week

• Josh Gower and Ron Miller will be leading services this week with a video sermon from pastor

• We’ll fog before and after services

• Both services have a small attendance

We’re taking care of physical health so we can also take care of our spiritual well being. Have you confessed your anger, bitterness, loneliness, or despair and asked for help? Have you reached out to encourage someone? How is your commitment to your work?

Jesus redeemed us body and soul. Your soul matters so much to God that he became a man to win it back. Watch over it!

Services are Sunday 9:00 and 10:45. No Sunday study on 1/10. Thursday online at 8 pm (not 7 pm as the calendar says).

Let’s see where God's grace takes us this year!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

2020 Giving

Thank you for your gifts to support gospel ministry through Peace in 2020!

Giving statements have been distributed. Please notify the office if you do not receive one and you need one.

Offering envelopes

Offering envelopes for 2021 are available in your mailbox at church.

The list of numbers is posted outside the office door. Please let the office know 269-694-6104 if there are any problems. Thanks for the partnership in gospel ministry!

How will you learn to follow Jesus and grow in 2021? With a new year, we can make fresh habits to send ourselves on a new trajectory.

Contact the office and join me in the HEAR plan this year. I’ve got a great journal for each person who wants to be part of the group.

Jesus will guide us where he wants us to go!

Christmas decoration takedown

We’ll take Christmas decorations down Sunday January 10th after the later service. The reverse of this list needs to be done https://wp.me/payjcn-8bM

Thank you!

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The Timmermanns

• Paul Scheppelman

Other notes

• Please nominate godly men — click here

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

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

• We would be helped if someone could take out the recycling by the family center door. Thank you!

• Thank you to Pete and Donna for fixing the tape on the pews.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• January 10, 12:00 pm Christmas decoration takedown

• January 12 Elders and council meeting

• January 24, 12:00 pm Open forum

• January 31, 12:00 pm Voters’ meeting (approve bylaws, elect new council)

• February 8th, 6:30 pm Christianity Explored

I’m studying and you could try

• The 1918 flu and the COVID-19 pandemic and the future of the church https://plileadership.org/mike-newman-the-1918-flu-pandemic-todays-covid-19-and-the-future-of-the-church/

• 2020 Christmas sermons at Peace https://peaceotsego.org/sermons?tag=The%20Greatest%20Gift%20 (or subscribe on YouTube

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Good news for Peace December 31

May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4

Dear friend,

Happy New Year to you, your friends, and families! I look forward to living in God's grace with you this year.

No matter how 2020 changed our lives, one thing didn't change the whole time: work.

Even if our work moved home or worked different hours or “pivoted”, we all kept working. Whether retired or employed or full time or part time, we all had lots of work to do - some of us much more than expected.

As we open 2021, let's watch God get to work and join him in work. The Bible shows us that the task we do might deal with money, but the call to work comes from God.

Services are Sunday 9:00 and 10:45 for January. Studies are Sunday at 8:00 am, Wednesday at 6:30, and Thursday online at 8 pm (not 7 pm as the calendar says).

Let’s see where God's grace takes us this year!

Sincerely,

Pastor Timmermann

Thank you

I would like to thank you for all the kind Christmas gifts. The cards, snacks, and more were all enjoyable. We’re grateful for your kindness. We look forward to opportunities to serve in 2020.

On behalf of the rest of Peace's staff, we’d all like to thank you for your gifts in 2020.

Sincerely

Pastor Timmermann

Learning with others helps everyone grow. It is a gift to grow your relationship with God while learning with others. We offer several opportunities for growth and relationship through Bible studies, prayer, and small groups. Follow the link below to find your next group!

Community — Peace (peaceotsego.org)

Prayers (full prayer list)

• The New Year

• The Winkel family

Other notes

• Please nominate godly men — click here

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

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

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• January 4 Midweek activities resume

• January 10, 12:00 pm Christmas decoration takedown

• January 19 Elders and council meeting

• January 24, 12:00 pm Open forum

• January 31, 12:00 pm Voters’ meeting (approve bylaws)

I’m Studying and you could try

• “Just How Dark Were The Dark Ages”

• Martin Luther’s view of faith and work

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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

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

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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