Good news for Peace March 31, 2022

This week’s lessons: Isaiah 43:16-24, Luke 20:9-19

 

Dear friends,

Jesus is alive. The message of Easter is simple. The man from Nazareth who died is once again alive.

I look forward to Easter each year. I like the excitement, the freshness, the cleanness, and the newness. After I’ve asked, “is it true?” and “what does it mean?”, I just relax and enjoy.

I hope you enjoy Easter too. I hope you enjoy all that is fresh and new and clean. All of us at Peace wish you and your families and friends a blessed Easter.

And if you’d like, we’d be honored to celebrate with you.

  • We’ll have services at 9:00 and 10:30 am.

  • We’ll have a light, portable breakfast available at about 9:45 so you can chat and watch your kids at the egg hunt.

  • We’ll start an egg hunt at about 10:10 for the kids.

“No son of man could conquer death,

No innocence was found on earth,

No freedom for the captives,

Till the voice rang out and said, "Jesus is alive.””

 

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Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace March 24, 2022

This week’s lessons: Judges 10:6-16, Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

 

Dear friends,

“How can I pray for you?”

I’m asking you. I always want to know how I can pray for you - whether you think life is good or not. Recently a contact reached out to me. A relative wanted to talk. We’ve been praying for this relative for a long time. They’ve been trapped in a debilitating addiction. At this point, I don’t know how the situation will work out. But God has answered prayers in a small way.

We believe that God is at work by his Word in our lives. He is always working on repentance and faith. We pray that he would work specifically in our lives.

Just like I ask you, “how can I pray for you?”, I encourage you to ask other people, “how can I pray for you?” And not just family members. Ask neighbors, ask friends, ask neighbors, and ask co-workers if it is appropriate. It’s a simple, God-honoring way to live out the mission of God.

Wrap up:

  • If you are looking to improve your own prayer life, I’d recommend the practice of daily office or daily prayer. I like this introduction to the practice. Introduction to daily prayer. There is nothing better than developing your own prayer life straight out of God’s Word.

  • How can I pray for you and the people around you? Please let me know.

  • Ask to pray for your others.

Whether we are close to God or far from him, our gracious heavenly Father is there to hear our prayers and receive us with mercy.

See you this weekend at 9:00 or 10:30 for the Father’s amazing grace!

Pastor T

 

Easter Egg Candy Donations Needed!

We’re seeking candy donations for our Easter Egg hunt. Please purchase individually wrapped small candy (Smarties are too big) and leave it in the office. Thank you!

Mother’s Day

Mother's Day is around the corner, and we would like to honor our mothers by creating a montage of these blessed women. If you would like to participate, please send a picture that you would like included. Jessica will collect all of the images and we will create a masterpiece to be presented on Mother's Day. Please email the images to jvandenberg@peaceotsego.org

 

Palm Sunday singing

All children will sing verse 1 of “Hosanna, loud hosanna” on Sunday, April 10th (Palm Sunday) at the 9:00 am service.

They’re practicing during their class time. We also encourage them to practice at home with the video below.

All children are welcome to sing, regardless of age.

Questions? Comments? Please ask pastor or Mrs. Timmmermann.

 

Baptism

We had a baptism after the second service on Sunday. Do you have a friend or family member that wants to get baptized? Let’s talk!

(full prayer list)

Brothers and sisters in Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

Recovery of Jim Walkley Jr

Easter witness

Peace

Don K - health

Jerry K - treatment

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

Doris Haase - we’re trying to reconnect with Doris. Do you talk to her or her family? Please get ahold of pastor.

Heather and Bre Jensen - we’re trying to reconnect with Heather and Bre. Do you talk to them or their family? Please let pastor know.

Julie and Sara Weyenberg: we’re trying to reconnect with Julie and Sara. Do you talk to them or their family? Please let pastor know.

Lawnmower coordinator

We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around church this summer. For details, please check out the description. https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/2022/3/17/lawn-mower-coordinator

If you’d like to learn more about it, please reach out to pastor.

Thank you!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • March 25th, 6:30 pm Bunco

  • March 29th, 7 pm Women’s Mixer

  • April 5th, 6 pm Team and Task Time

  • April 14th, 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday

  • April 16th, 6:30 pm Good Friday

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace March 17, 2022

This week’s lessons: Exodus 3:1-15, Luke 13:1-9

 

Dear friends,

Some of you may know that over just the last year, unethical behavior has been revealed in one America Christian organization (usually churches) after another. When I say unethical, I'm generally referring to sexual misconduct, but that isn’t always the case. I’m guessing most of you haven’t seen these events.

I mean, why would you know about these issues? We've had a pandemic, inflation, and now a war in Ukraine. Who has time to notice more crises?

Here are a few of them, in no particular order.

  • Christianity Today, America's largest evangelical news magazine

  • Brian Houston

  • Ravi Zacharias

  • John MacArthur

  • The SBC

  • Mark Driscoll

I’m not trying to get anyone worked up. If you want to look them up, you can. I think most of us recognize these names without any digging.

If you recognize these names, you know what a big deal this is. Many people have been affected by everything that has happened in these situations. And the people you and I work with and talk with know about these situations.

Some people definitely see this as justice. Actions are getting judged right and wrong as they should be.

We’re reminded that nothing is hidden that will not be made known (Mark 4:22). Whether the things we have done are revealed during this life or when we get to our next life, everything we’ve done will come out. Don’t imagine that your life will stay hidden.

One of the best things: “‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it”. Jesus was pretty clear that “unless you repent, you too will all perish.” We won’t avoid the kind of exposure all these people and groups are experiencing apart from repentance. But God is more than a little gracious. Leave it one more year, Jesus says. He has intervened, so that you and I get grace - now. You and I have time now to ask God for forgiveness and new life.

These events are also reshaping American Christianity. I bet you can guess some of the effects these events will have on Christians, churches, and non-religious Americans. Here is something to think about going forward. Evangelicalism’s Second-Class Status in Conservatism - American Reformer

Don’t be surprised if people are different, even if they can’t tell you about these events

Here is an update from our brothers and sisters in Ukraine. Update from Ukraine: March 16, 2022 – WELS

See you this weekend!

Pastor T

 
 

Christian Neighbors: items for March will be boxed potatoes and rice sides

Easter Help- Easter is quickly approaching. We’re well underway with planning - breakfast, some decorating, Easter baskets for the kids, and flowers. We’d love a little help with some of the following:

  • Fruit donations: looking for clementines and bananas. Sign up is up!

  • Candy donations: Purchase individually wrapped small candy (smarties are too big) and leave it in the office

  • Flowers: Donate flowers in memory of a loved one

  • Decorating:

  • Invites

  • Prayer team

We’d love to have your help with any and all of this. Get ahold of pastor and I can get you on the team!

Administrative team: As our administrative assistant transitions, we’re looking to expand our admin team. The admin team helps update directories, organize news, manage volunteers, update the website, change the sign, and do other work around the site. If you’d like to be part of the team, please let pastor know!

Doris Haase - we’re trying to reconnect with Doris. Do you talk to her or her family? Please get ahold of pastor.

Heather and Bre Jensen - we’re trying to reconnect with Heather and Bre. Do you talk to them or their family? Please let pastor know.

Julie and Sara Weyenberg: we’re trying to reconnect with Julie and Sara. Do you talk to them or their family? Please let pastor know.

Facility pick up - a quick reminder that the facility at Peace is our facility. It belongs to each of us. It belongs to all of us collectively. Please help me treat it as if we all own it together.

  • put the hymnals, Bibles, and other books back where they came from or where they belong. If you don’t know, this is a great time to ask. Please don’t just leave them where you sat.

  • recycle papers or throw items away.

  • if you find something sitting around, feel free to ask if something can be done with it.

  • put pencils, pens, utensils away.

Thank you!

Lawnmower coordinator

We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around church this summer. For details, please check out the description. https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/2022/3/17/lawn-mower-coordinator

If you’d like to learn more about it, please reach out to pastor.

Thank you!

Spring Cleaning!

Our April Team and Task time will connect

  • people who need help with spring projects

  • with people who have the chance to help

If you or a friend or neighbor could use help with a project, please let pastor know (269-694-6104) and get on the list!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • March 18th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

  • March 23rd, 6:30 pm Lent Service

  • March 25th, 6:30 pm Bunco

  • March 29th, 7 pm Women’s Mixer

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Lawn mower coordinator

Overview

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

Position

  • Volunteer lawn mower coordinator

  • Reports to pastor (no maintenance coordinator currently)

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

Position requirements

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

  • Able to organize people and schedule

  • Able to communicate with people about tasks and duties

Duties

  • Schedule individuals to mow the lawn as needed

  • Train individuals to mow

  • manage schedule changes and adjustments

Good news for Peace March 10, 2022d

This week’s lessons: Philippians 3:17-4:1, Luke 13:31-35

 

Dear friends,

I want to thank the whole team who did such a good job telling the gospel last week. Thanks to Terry B for leading worship, Tom W for his encouraging message, Kaitlyn N for music, Sharon W also for music, Mike G for the AV, and Charlie K for streaming.

I'm so pleased and glad to see this happening. We are “bringing people the gospel of Jesus.” We are doing the mission God has given us. This is great. Yes, it makes me a little sad to get replaced. But I'm more glad to see God working through you.

I'd also like to give a big thanks to Pete and Donna W. They’re painting the entry area and hallway at church. They’re doing great.

In case you haven’t heard, Plainwell Schools and some Christian students are going through a difficult situation. You can read about the court case here https://www.greatlakesjc.org/wp-content/uploads/Verified-Complaint-Stout-FILED.pdf.

The WELS President Mark Schroeder offers wisdom about the Ukraine situation. WELS President’s Comments on the situation in Ukraine – WELS

Are you growing this Lent? It’s good for my soul.

See you this weekend!

Pastor T

Catechism

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

If you’re a 6-8th grade student now or in the fall of 2022, I hope you’ll join me for this class. I love spending time with you and helping you learn to follow Jesus. 

If you are a parent of a 5th grader, please contact me so that I can get your student registered for class. 

Memorial Day festivities

Grab some coffee, have a hearty breakfast, and get the creative train started! We are looking for great minds to help us come up with a fun and creative way to give back to our veterans. Any and all ideas are encouraged and welcomed. Email or talk to the pastor if you have any ideas or want to be involved.

 
 

(full prayer list)

The people of Ukraine, especially our brothers and sisters

Christian Neighbors: items for March will be boxed potatoes and rice sides

Ushers: Joshua Gower & Eric Sczembara

Easter Help- Easter is quickly approaching. We’re well under way with planning - breakfast, some decorating, Easter baskets for the kids, and flowers. We’d love a little help with some of the following:

  • Fruit donations: there will be a sign up

  • Candy donations: Purchase individually wrapped small candy (smarties are too big) and leave in office

  • Flowers: Donate flowers in memory of a loved one

  • Decorating:

  • Invites

  • Prayer team

We’d love to have your help with any and all of this. Get ahold of pastor and I can get you on the team!

Administrative team: As our administrative assistant transitions, we’re looking to expand our admin team. The admin team helps mail items from boxes, update directories, organize news, and other work around the site. If you’d like to be part of the team, please let pastor know!

Doris Haase - we’re trying to reconnect with Doris. Do you talk to her or her family? Please get ahold of pastor.

Heather and Bre Jensen - we’re trying to reconnect with Heather and Bre. Do you talk to them or their family? Please let pastor know.

Spring Cleaning!

Our April Team and Task time will connect

  • people who need help with spring projects

  • with people who have the chance to help

If you or a friend or neighbor could use help with a project, please let pastor know (269-694-6104) and get on the list!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • March 11th, 12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

  • March 16th, 6:30 pm Lent Service

  • March 18th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

  • March 23rd, 6:30 pm Lent Service

  • March 25th, 6:30 pm Bunco

  • March 29th, 7pm Womens Mixer

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace March 3, 2022

This week’s lessons: Joshua 7:16-26, Luke 4:1-13

 

Dear friends,

This week began our journey with Jesus to the cross. It’s a crucial one for this crucial moment of our lives. I hope you’ll join us each Wednesday evening at 6:30 pm. I’ve left the video from this last week below.

God willing we’ll be able to stream the Lenten service over the coming weeks; please watch if you can’t make it. Subscribe to our channel.

This week we’ll look at “The Semblance of Legality”.

We remain in prayer and vigilant assistance for our fellow humans in Ukraine, especially the brothers and sisters in fellowship with us. To find out more about the need for prayer and opportunities to serve these dear brothers and sisters, please visit Ukraine – WELS.

We started planning and preparing for Easter this week. I look forward to that celebration with you. Please set aside April 17 at either 9:00 or 10:30 am to be Alive! with Jesus and the rest of us.

This weekend we get the strength to overcome tempting and testing in our lives. Be sure to join us at 9:00 or 10:30.

See you this weekend!

Pastor T

Catechism

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

If you’re a 6-8th grade student now or in the fall of 2022, I hope you’ll join me for this class. I love spending time with you and helping you learn to follow Jesus. 

If you are a parent of a 5th grader, please contact me so that I can get your student registered for class. 

Memorial Day festivities

Grab some coffee, have a hearty breakfast, and get the creative train started! We are looking for great minds to help us come up with a fun and creative way to give back to our veterans. Any and all ideas are encouraged and welcomed. Email or talk to the pastor if you have any ideas or want to be involved.

A Greater Soul: Christian Guidance for Grief and Loss

You’re welcome to a special workshop on March 26th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

The workshop will help us study and apply Christian guidance regarding grief and loss.

The goal will be to grow greater souls as we handle grief and loss.

 
 

(full prayer list)

The people of Ukraine, especially our brothers and sisters

Snacks for Lent - serving snacks before Lenten services.

Christian Neighbors - items for March will be boxed potatoes and rice sides

Ushers: Joshua Gower & Eric Sczembara

Easter Help- Easter is quickly approaching. We’re well under way with planning - breakfast, some decorating, Easter baskets for the kids, and flowers. We’d love a little help with some of the following:

  • Fruit donations: there will be a sign up

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

  • Flowers: Donate flowers in memory of a loved one

  • Decorating:

  • Invites

  • Prayer team

We’d love to have your help with any and all of this. Get ahold of pastor and I can get you on the team!

Administrative team: As our administrative assistant transitions, we’re looking to expand our admin team. The admin team helps mail items from boxes, update directories, organize news, and other work around the site. If you’d like to be part of the team, please let pastor know!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • March 9th, 6:30 pm Lent Service

  • March 11th, 12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

  • March 16th, 6:30 pm Lent Service

  • March 18th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace February 24

This week’s lessons: Genesis 45:3-15, Luke 6:27-37

 

Dear friends,

You've probably heard about the special tax that Otsego has proposed. In case you haven't, the proposal is a special tax on each household for police and fire services.

I suppose I could say something about the right to collect taxes (Romans 13:7). We could consider the need to punish wrongdoers (Romans 13:5). We could mention the need for servants to steward what they have been given (1 Corinthians 4:2). All those things could be considered another time.

I want to mention it as a reflection of recent social, economic, geographic, political, and other shifts.

While every organization and city have their unique challenges, Otsego has experienced many of the same challenges every organization has experienced. Revenue has remained flat (just like our incomes), expenses have increased (inflation), maintenance has been deferred (capital expenditures), very few new people, and a lack of overall commitment to the vision and future. If you want to know about everything going on, you can read here. Funding Information | City of Otsego, MI

Here is why it matters: what the city is experiencing, Peace is experiencing. Just like many other churches and businesses. Decide. Commit. We’re experiencing a cultural moment that is challenging us all. Be part of organizations that do great work.

I tell you about this all so you can trust the people you’ve called and asked to make decisions.

God be with,

Pastor T

Lent begins on March 2nd this year at 6:30 pm. The service will last about an hour. We’ll end with the imposition of ashes. During the imposition of ashes, the pastor places ashes on the forehead or the hand of everyone who would like to receive them. They are a reminder that we come from dust and we’ll go back to dust someday.

We’ll meet each Wednesday after March 2nd at 6:30. I hope you’ll join us.

  • March 2nd “I’m Going to Celebrate the Passover” Matthew 26:18

  • March 9th The Semblance of Legality Luke 22:66

  • March 16th “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Luke 22:31, 32

  • March 23rd What to Remember When You are Seized with Remorse Matthew 27:3-4

  • March 30th A Part for the Whole? Luke 23:13-16

  • April 6th “They Bound Him” John 18:12

Women’s Mixer

Tuesday, March 29
7-8:30 pm
Come socialize with us and create a donation for a local nonprofit.
Desserts will be served.

Happy Birthday Ray Winkel

Ray Winkel is turning 100 on March 13. He was born in Harbor Beach, MI in 1922. There is no public celebration, but those wanting to send congratulations can do so by card to: Ray Winkel, 1700 Bronson Way, Apt 42, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 or by email to: jandjwinkel@gmail.com

Ray, congratulations on 100 years of grace! We’re thankful to the Lord for you.

A Greater Soul: Christian Guidance for Grief and Loss

You’re welcome to a special workshop on March 26th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

The workshop will help us study and apply Christian guidance regarding grief and loss.

The goal will be to grow greater souls as we handle grief and loss.

 

131 Youth Crew: You and Your Mental Health

February 27th, 4:00 pm

Middle school and high school students are welcome. Love to have you!

 

(full prayer list)

Don Miner - healing from stroke

Easter 2022 work time - February 28th, 6:30 pm. A great team to help make Easter wonderful. I’m looking for people to help with outreach, decorating, music, kids’ activities, prayer team, and food. Let me know if you want to be part of the team!

Snacks for Lent - serving snacks before Lenten services. Check the list at the Next Steps table for each week’s emphasis.

Christian Neighbors - items for February are pasta and pasta sauce

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • March 1st, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

  • March 2nd, 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday service (Midweek Lent begins)

  • March 9th, 6:30 pm Lent Service

  • March 11th, 12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace February 17

This week’s lessons: Exodus 34:29-35, Luke 9:28-36

 

Dear friends,

I feel like we hop from one crisis to the next. As a country and world, we hop from Ukraine to Omicron to Supreme Court rulings on mandates. As a church and a business, we hop from a musician shortage to an underfunded budget to a volunteer shortage. Personally, we hop from colds to an overspent budget to overwhelmed kids. One crisis after another.

These are crucial moments, crucial hours - ones you and I need to handle with wisdom.

Lent is 40 days before the death and resurrection of Jesus. We take 40 days to particularly consider the hours leading up to his death and resurrection - those crucial hours. By considering his choices and actions in these crucial hours, we are prepared for our own.

Lent begins on March 2nd this year at 6:30 pm. The service will last about an hour. We’ll end with the imposition of ashes. During the imposition of ashes, the pastor places ashes on the forehead or the hand of everyone who would like to receive them. They are a reminder that we come from dust and we’ll go back to dust someday.

We’ll meet each Wednesday after March 2nd at 6:30. I hope you’ll join us.

  • March 2nd “I’m Going to Celebrate the Passover” Matthew 26:18

  • March 9th The Semblance of Legality Luke 22:66

  • March 16th “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Luke 22:31, 32

  • March 23rd What to Remember When You are Seized with Remorse Matthew 27:3-4

  • March 30th A Part for the Whole? Luke 23:13-16

  • April 6th “They Bound Him” John 18:12

I hope you’ll set time aside for these beautiful prayers and meditations. They are a great way to end your day and shape your soul.

Since pastor won’t be here, we’ll need help with sound, slides, and streaming. Please speak with pastor to help.

Whether you join us or not, please consider how you respond in the crucial moments of life. Enhance your development with this great resource. The Crucial Hours (nph.net)

Much love in Jesus,

PT

 

131 Youth Crew: You and Your Mental Health

February 27th, 4:00 pm

Middle school and high school students are welcome. Love to have you!

 

(full prayer list)

  • Aleksei M - healing

  • Carolyn M - thanksgiving

Video camera - do you have a handheld digital camera you no longer use? We might be able to improve our video system if you’d like to donate it. Please speak with pastor.

Paint - We’d like to paint around the facility. If you are interested in painting (we have the supplies), please let pastor know.

Easter - we’re looking for a great team to help make Easter wonderful. I’m looking for people to help with outreach, decorating, music, kids’ activities, prayer team, and food. Let me know if you want to be part of the team!

Snacks for Lent - serving snacks before Lenten services. Check the list at the Next Steps table for each week’s emphasis.

Before and after school care - Peace is looking into offering before and after school care. If you could help explore this option, please speak with pastor. He is looking to build a team of 3 or 4.

Christian Neighbors - items for February are pasta and pasta sauce

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • February 18th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

  • March 2nd, 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday service (Midweek Lent begins)

  • March 9th, 6:30 pm Lent Service

  • March 11th, 12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace February 10

This week’s lessons: Deuteronomy 30:1-10, Luke 6:17-26

 

Dear friends,

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up”. (1 Thess 5:11)

I like to think about courage as having a full heart. If you’ve been encouraged, you’ve been filled up. Not in your head, but in your heart.

Encouragement might include flattery or praise, but it’s more than praise. Encouragement might include commands and urging, but it’s much more than that. Encouragement might be wise sayings, inspiring stories, or basic teaching.

We could all really use some encouragement now. Friends and neighbors, take your empty hands to God and let Him fill you up with the gifts of Jesus. See his humble life, his willing sacrifice, and his amazing accomplishments. Let him tell you you are worth more to him than the world, but also let him show you your own weakness and frailty.

“Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven.”

I want to invite you to encourage each other. Fill each other’s hearts with calm, satisfaction, and confidence. If you want some light-hearted guidance on courage, you can check out Brene’ Brown’s talk Watch Brené Brown: The Call to Courage | Netflix Official Site

Can’t wait to see you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30 am!

Happy Valentine's Day if I don't see you Sunday!

Sincerely

PT

The Peace team

I’m happy to work with our 2022 Peace team. I’d like to take a moment to share our staff, key volunteers, and elected leaders with you. These individuals model a Christian life for us and help us follow Jesus.

Staff and Volunteers

Council (Board)

Charles Kling - President

Roger Commissaris - Vice President

Micah Rimpel - Recording Secretary

Tom Wright - Elder

I’m grateful for all of these individuals and many more who come together to bring the gospel to Otsego-Plainwell. Look to see what God does through us!

 

131 Youth Crew: You and Your Mental Health

February 27th 4:00 pm

Middle school and high school students welcome. Love to have you!

 

Video camera - do you have a handheld digital camera you no longer use? We might be able to improve our video system if you’d like to donate it. Please speak with pastor.

Paint - We’d like to paint around the facility. If you are interested in painting (we have the supplies), please let pastor know.

Easter - we’re looking for a great team to help make Easter wonderful. I’m looking for people to help with outreach, decorating, music, and food. Let me know if you want to be part of the team!

Snacks for Lent - serving snacks before Lenten services. Check the list at the Next Steps table for each week’s emphasis.

Before and after school care - Peace is looking into offering before and after school care. If you could help explore this option, please speak with pastor. He is looking to build a team of 3 or 4.

Christian Neighbors - items for February are pasta and pasta sauce

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • February 11th, 12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

  • February 18th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

  • March 2nd, 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday service (Midweek Lent begins)

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace February 3

This week’s lessons: 1 Kings 17:7-24, Luke 4:20-32

 

Dear friends,

The gospel is truly an amazing story, one that secures our spot in life. If you missed the message last week, check it out here. https://youtu.be/Q3aBo7TJn24

PS If you haven’t subscribed to our Youtube channel, you should. All the cool people are doing it.

I want to make sure you know about two important funerals this week.

On Sunday, we’ll rethink our view of God. When we realize he loves us, we actually rewire our brains. The most profound change comes over us.

Can’t wait to see you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30 am!

Sincerely

PT

Christianity Explored is a seven-session course that gives people the time and space to think about the big questions of life and to explore the life of the man at the heart of the Christian faith.

As they explore Mark's Gospel, people find out who Jesus is, why he came and what it means to follow him.

This group starts Monday February 7th @ 6:30 pm. Bring a friend!

Business update

Thank you to those who were part of the meeting on Sunday.

  • We adjusted the budget slightly.

  • We will continue with two services for the time being.

  • We reviewed reports and progress.

  • We elected new officers.

2022 officers will be

  • President Charles Kling

  • Elder Tom Wright

  • Treasurer Roger Commissaris

  • Recording Secretary Micah Rimpel

 

131 Youth Crew: You and Your Mental Health

February 27th 4:00 pm

Middle school and high school students welcome. Love to have you!

 

(full prayer list)

Family of Larry Hutchinson

Keller family

Rhonda W - brother passed away

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

Many thanks to Cody V for cleaning out the maintenance/cleaning closet. There are more free items on the counter. Check ‘em out!

Video camera - do you have a handheld digital camera you no longer use? We might be able to improve our video system if you’d like to donate it. Please speak with pastor.

We’d like to paint around the facility. If you are interested in painting (we have the supplies), please let Pastor know.

Easter - we’re looking for a great team to help make Easter wonderful. I’m looking for people to help with outreach, decorating, music, and food. Let me know if you want to be part of the team!

Christian Neighbors

Items for February are pasta and pasta sauce.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • February 3rd, 6:30 pm Choir

  • February 4th, 11:00 am Andy Keller Funeral

  • February 5th, 11:00 am Larry Hutchinson Funeral

  • February 7th, 6:30 pm Christianity Explored begins

  • February 10th, 6:30 pm Choir

  • February 11th, 12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

  • February 17th, 6:30 pm Choir

  • February 18th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Please pray for the family of Larry Hutchinson

Larry Hutchinson

Dear friends and family of Larry Hutchinson,

On Tuesday February 1st, Larry was brought to glory to celebrate with his Savior. I am comforted to know that he triumphs with all the saints because of Jesus. I pray that you have the same comfort. He 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)

Larry modeled our heavenly Father as a father. He is well-known for developing hard working, independent, and responsible individuals. He publicly accepted Jesus’ work for him as an adult and upheld that commitment for years. He is a model of both hard work and dependence on Jesus.

Obituary: To read Larry’s obituary, please visit Larry E. Hutchinson - Winkel Funeral Home | Otsego Michigan

Funeral: Larry’s funeral will take place on Saturday February 5th at Peace Lutheran Church. The service will begin at 11:00 a.m.

The funeral is open to the public.

Concerning health, attendees are encouraged to follow state and local guidelines. Peace does not have any different protocols in place.

Information to participate remotely (livestreaming or phone) is available on our website, https://peaceotsego.org/worship.

Interment: Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery on Saturday immediately following the service. Family and close friends are welcome to attend.

Luncheon: Everyone is welcome to attend a light luncheon following the service.

Visitation: Visitation will take place on Friday February 4th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at Winkel Funeral Home; or from 10:00 - 10:45 am on Saturday February 5th at Peace Lutheran Church.

Memorial To give a memorial to Peace in honor of Larry, please go to https://peaceotsego.org/give and select “Memorial”.

Let’s gather on Saturday to mourn and celebrate the victory Jesus gave to Larry. May Jesus work healing and hope in us.

Serving the living Savior

Pastor Nathaniel Timmermann

Please pray for Larry’s family: 


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

Good news for Peace 2022 Looking Ahead

1 Timothy 4:1-10, Luke 8:9-11

 

Dear friends and family of Jesus,

I don’t know you, but I’m really glad for our time lately enjoying Jesus. Yes, he causes many problems for our usual way of looking at things, but he is also so much better than we expect. Check out each week below if you’ve missed the message.

Jesus exists and matters

Who is Jesus

Love God first

Miracles

I also want to give you a little heads up on some of the dreams God has put before us for 2022.

Keep doing

Most of what we’ve done, we’ll keep doing. That includes….

  1. Wonderful Sunday worship at 9:00 and 10:30. We’ll tell people of the good and just God, and all he did for us in Jesus to change our lives for now and eternity. 

  2. Class, worship, and prayer for children during the 9:00 am service. 

  3. At least three Study and Life Groups each week, one online 

  4. 131 Youth Crew and instruction for middle school students

  5. Personal pastoral care

As we go through the year, we’ll also adapt and work on some new initiatives. The following are just a few of them.

Staffing 

  • Our main musician Cindy Commissaris has retired and we’ll redouble our efforts for our next musician

  • We’ll phase out the administrative assistant up to July this year. 

Ministry and programs

  • We really want to increase the number and quality of personal pastoral interactions 

  • Help our seniors find another good step to take in life and mission

Facility, administration, and ministry support

  • Complete hail damage repair 

  • Finish bylaws revision and get them approved by the district 

By God’s grace, I know that we will partner for a lot more in 2022, but if we are blessed to even work on these few things, that will be good. Please join me in praying for and seeking good gospel among us.

Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. God bless!

Pastor T

 

We've got about 30 FREE 25W CFL light bulbs to give away. If you want them, call the office or stop by.

Someone is giving away a round/oval dining room table. Formica top. Seven seats. Two leafs. Please contact the office if you are interested.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • January 30th, 11:45 am Voters’ Meeting

  • February 1st, 6:00 pm Team and Task Time

  • February 3rd, 6:30 pm Choir

  • February 4th, 11:00 am Andy Keller funeral

  • February 7th, 6:30 pm Christianity Explored

  • February 11th, 12:00 am Senior luncheon

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace 2021

Acts 4:23-31, Luke 4:14-21

 

Dear friends and family of Jesus,

I want to take a minute and reflect on the work God let us be part of in 2021. As we look at highlights and challenges, we can use that information to guide us through 2022.

Highlights and Blessings

Services

In 2021 we focused on improving our outdoor services by

  • providing live music outdoors each week after purchasing a keyboard

  • getting a new tv

  • developing a strong, consistent crew to set up

Everyone - members and neighbors enjoyed worshiping outdoors with us. It was fun to invite people to this unique experience!

Worship attendance increased more than 10% this year. That alone was a huge blessing in a tough year.

Christmas Eve service attendance was up 25% from last year! We’re so thankful for this blessing.

Team and Task Time

Task and Team Time was formed to bring us together to organize and accomplish tasks both small and large that benefit the church and our local community.

  • met most months

  • at least 5 people each time

  • lots of good projects - teacher training, Ramp It Up, newsletter, organize Senior Luncheon, plan Welcome Home, clean up

Gingerbread Bash

Gingerbread Bash teaching both kids of Peace and friends about the love of Jesus and playing games. 25 kids! 20 non-members.

Gifts from Guests

Gifts from Guests is our new initiative.

  • Small gifts are given to a local non-profit in honor of a first-time guest

  • This token of appreciation was well-received.

  • People participated the first week we did it!

Welcome Home

It was great to see so much of our church family at the fall Welcome Home celebration!

Bylaws

We switched to new bylaws and a new structure at the beginning of the year. It always takes time to learn how to live differently. Thanks for all your work!

Summary

  • Average weekly worship attendance = 79

  • Baptisms = 1

  • Professions of faith/confirmations = 3

  • Giving = $153,781.44

 

Challenges

As we navigated through 2021, we were not without challenges. We experienced many internal struggles and external hindrances.

We continued to navigate COVID-19 and the variants that have impacted our community.

As shown in the chart below, our giving was about $20,000 below what we had budgeted for. Our team had to adjust our spending in several areas. Still spending was about $6,000 more than income.

Our main musician Cindy Commissaris has retired from her regular job. She will come to help out around Peace, but her role will adapt. We deeply appreciate all the service she has provided to Peace.

As we step into 2022, we look forward to growing with you! Next week we’ll share more on the 2022 plan for gospel ministry.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • January 20th, 6:30 pm Choir

  • January 21st, 11:00am CANCELLED Ladies Guild

  • January 22nd 7pm 131 Youth Crew

  • January 23rd, 11:45 am Congregational Forum

  • January 30th, 11:45 am Voters’ Meeting

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Winter/Spring 2022 Children's Ministry

Schedule

Date
Lesson
Project, Craft, Special activity
Teacher
Date
1/9/2022
Lesson
Lesson 13
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Rachel
Older Rachel
Date
1/16/2022
Lesson
Lesson 1
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Tamara
Older Laurie
Date
1/23/2022
Lesson
Lesson 2
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Sarah G
Older ???
Date
1/30/2022
Lesson
Lesson 3
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Macayla
Older ???
Date
2/6/2022
Lesson
Lesson 4
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Rachel
Older ???
Date
2/13/2022
Lesson
Lesson __
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Tamara H
Older Laurie B
Date
2/20/2022
Lesson
No class - worship with family
Date
2/27/2022
Lesson
Lesson 6
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Sarah G
Older ???
Date
3/6/2022
Lesson
Lesson 5
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Macayla
Older ???
Date
3/13/2022
Lesson
Lesson 7
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Rachel
Older ???
Date
3/20/2022
Lesson
No class - worship with family
Date
3/27/2022
Lesson
Lesson 8
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Tamara H
Older Laurie B
Date
4/3/2022
Lesson
Lesson 9
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Sarah G
Older ???
Date
4/10/2022
Lesson
Lesson 10
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Macayla W
Older ???
Date
4/17/2022
Lesson
No class - Easter! Worship with family
Date
4/24/2022
Lesson
Lesson 11
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Rachel T
Older ???
Date
5/1/2022
Lesson
Lesson 12
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Tamara H
Older Laurie B
Date
5/8/2022
Lesson
Lesson 13
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Sarah G
Older
Date
5/15/2022
Lesson
Lesson ???
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Younger Macayla
Older
Date
5/22/2022
Lesson
Student and Teacher Recognition
Project, Craft, Project, Craft, Special activity
???
Teacher
Pastor T

Good news for Peace January 13, 2022

This week’s lessons: Isaiah 62:1-5, John 2:1-11

 
 

Dear friends,

I love my wife, my family, the people at Peace, my neighbors, and the growing number of friends and acquaintances.

There are plenty of things I love that aren’t as helpful. Money, my happiness, success in life, and even my job. They’re good things. I need them in life. But to love them so much isn’t healthy.

I’ve seen so many people get chewed up and spit out by the things they love. They committed to and loved a family, but were abandoned by a spouse and turned on by kids. They devoted decades to a job only to discover that the job didn’t really care about them after all. When they didn’t win, succeed, and do well in life, they almost gave up.

What you love more than anything matters. Come celebrate the incredible love of God in Jesus this weekend.

Services at 9 and 10:30 on Sunday

God bless

PT

Congregational Forum and Voters' Meeting

All are welcome to provide feedback and make inquiries/suggestions during our congregational forum.

Congregational forum will take place on January 23rd @ 11:45 am

Voters' meeting will take place on January 30th @ 11:45 am

Baptism

“Look here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized?” That’s what a man from Egypt said 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!

 
 

HEAR

“Jesus replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.””

The HEAR journal and reading system is our system for regularly reading through the Bible and applying it. There are a lot of systems out there that guide you through reading the Bible. There is a lot of material out there that tries to apply the Bible. There is very little that guides you to apply Bible. That’s why I look and we use the HEAR journal.

Nothing does more to eliminate hypocrisy, self-deception, lies, and fraud than hearing Jesus well. When we really listen and follow, he brings our lives together - even if we don’t see right away.

Contact the office to pick up one of our journals and HEAR the word with the rest of us.

 
 

(full prayer list)

The Walkley family

The Keller family on the passing of their son Andy (no information available yet)

Christian Neighbors

Items for January are ramen noodles and canned soup.

Confessions of faith: Roy Mendoza and Paul Moronczyk – FORWARD IN CHRIST

Forever Family - our new study on building great families A Forever Family — Peace (peaceotsego.org)

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • January 14th, 12:00 pm CANCELLED - Senior luncheon

  • January 14th, 6:30 pm CANCELLED - Bunco

  • January 20th, 6:30 pm Choir

  • January 23rd, 11:45 am Congregational Forum

  • January 30th, 11:45 am Voters’ Meeting

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace January 6, 2022

This week’s lessons: 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Luke 3:15-22

 
 

Happy New Year!

I pray the Lord has brought you and your families, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and acquaintances safely into the new year.

I’m really enjoying the word from the Lord that is bringing us into the new year. Whatever problems we might face in our lives, in some ways Jesus is the biggest problem. He is the problem that reveals all the lies, false truths, broken promises, and failed dreams we live by. He is the problem that will not let us settle for anything less than the best.

This week we’ll take a look at the idea of what Jesus was all about. You might find it surprising and wonderful!

Since everyone else is sharing their top 2021 content, I thought I’d share ours:

Top 2021 stuff

Hope you have some fun with all that! Can’t wait to see you this weekend and let’s chat before then.

Services at 9 and 10:30 on Sunday

God bless

PT

Thank You for your Donations

Dear friend,

“I don’t know why people put him to death”. That’s what someone said about Jesus. He really does mess up people’s lives if your idea of life is that things should always work out for good people. That’s not the gospel. The gospel is good for sinners.

Thank you for partnering with us to bring the gospel of Jesus to Otsego-Plainwell in 2021. Your gracious gifts and generous time made a real impact.

Together we brought more than 500lbs of supplies to others. We gave over $150 in emergency assistance – mostly food – to individuals. We welcomed 4 people into God’s family. We educated ten children each week this year. Almost 300 different individuals gathered throughout the year to hear the good news of Jesus and ascribe worth to God at our regular services. And we shared the good news of the life, the death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ with 400 people at all of our annual events.

And you were with us. Thank you.

We’ve got a great chance to bring people the gospel of Jesus and see real community development in 2022. Whether children are receiving more personal and quality age-appropriate Christian education, young adults gathering fun and meaningful service and worship each month, or adults are meeting to pray and support each other with God’s Word, 2022 is a year for people to come alive with God’s life. I look forward to doing this together.

Thank you for your time, effort, and donations to support gospel ministry through Peace in 2021! We are so fortunate to have your continued support and look forward to 2022.

With heartfelt thanks,

Pastor T and staff

Congregational Forum and Voters' Meeting

All are welcome to provide feedback and make inquiries/suggestions during our congregational forum.

Congregational forum will take place on January 23rd @ 11:45 am

Voters' meeting will take place on January 30th @ 11:45 am



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 February 7th!

 

Youth Crew 131 skating event January 23rd @ 3:00 pm.

 

(full prayer list)

Jerry Koenig

Allan White, Ann Kling’s brother

Christian Neighbors

Items for January are ramen noodles and canned soup.

Offering Envelopes

2022 offering envelopes are available in your box. Please pick them up and save us the postage! If you won’t use it, please turn it into the office with a note. Thank you!

Undecorating

We’ll take down the Christmas decorations around 11:45 on Sunday, January 9th. Please join us.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • January 12th Study groups restart

  • January 14th 12:00 pm Senior luncheon

  • January 14th, 6:30 pm Bunco

  • January 23rd, 11:45 am Congregational Forum

  • January 30th, 11:45 am Voters’ Meeting

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace December 23, 2021

This week’s lessons: Christmas lessons! Luke 2:1-20

 
 

Merry Christmas!

Your friends and family at Peace would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

No matter how hard this year has been, no matter how many failures and setbacks and disappointments you have experienced, and no matter how many people have thrown in the towel on you, Christmas tells you and I one thing for certain: God didn’t quit.

The point of Christmas is that God actually became a man and he really lived as Jesus. He did and he said everything he said. You can trust your life to him.

We’d be glad to celebrate with you at Peace on Christmas Eve at 4:30 or 6:30 pm with a beautiful candlelight service, and if you’d prefer to watch and sing at home, you can find us online at https://peaceotsego.org/worship (be sure to bring your candle!)

And whether you join us or not, we’d like to wish you and yours a Merry Christmas!

With Christmas joy,

Pastor Timmermann

  • Christmas Day December 25th @ 10:00 A.M.

  • December 26th @ 9:30 A.M. We will only have one Sunday service. Normal Sunday service times will pick back up on Sunday, January 2nd.

  • Weekly news will not go out next week. We will pick back up after the new year.

 

Our children gave us an amazing service on Sunday telling us the story of Christmas. Check it out! https://youtu.be/wVDyVVCZFFs

 

Christian Neighbors

Items for December are macaroni and cheese, and canned pasta

2022 offering envelopes are available in your box. Please pick them up and save us the postage! If you won’t use it, please turn it in to the office with a note. Thank you!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • December 24th, 4:30 pm & 6:30 pm Candlelight Service

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

  • December 26th, 9:30 am Service

  • December 27th Office closed

  • January 2nd, 9:00 and 10:30 am regular services

  • January 12th Study groups restart

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace December 17, 2021

This week’s lessons: Christmas lessons! Matthew 1:20-25

 
 

Hello friends and acquaintances of Peace,

What are your favorite Christmas carols? My family visited last weekend and we sang together. We sang “O Holy Night” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “O Christmas Tree” along with “Jingle Bells”. It was a great time. What songs will you sing to celebrate?

I hope you don’t just sing at church. Singing is a wonderful part of life and Christmas is a great time to sing.

I’m looking forward to singing with you over the next few days, and I hope you’ll join me for all our Christmas singing. Every song proclaims the one who became a person for us.

Our children will tell us part of the Christmas story this Sunday at 9, with a regular service at 10:30. See you then!

Pastor T

Christmas 2021

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

KIDS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 19TH @ 9:00 A.M. (10:30 regular service)

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

CHRISTMAS DAY December 25th @ 10:00 A.M.

December 26th @ 9:30 A.M.

We’d love to prepare a spot for you and your group. Click the button below and let us know how many people are coming in your group so we can prepare for you! Thanks!

Giving Opportunities

During the holiday season, we had many opportunities to give. Please permit us a couple of quick reminders.

  • December 19th will be the last day to give to our called worker

  • December 26th will be the last day to give to be counted for 2021

Office Closed

The office will be closed the week of December 27th - January 2nd to celebrate the holiday season.

Christian Neighbors Thank You

Dear people of Peace,

Judy and I (Irv) are pleased to be able to deliver the gifts given by friends of Jesus at Peace to the local Christian Neighbors collection site. Through the end of November this year we delivered 582 items weighing 603 pounds. Those are your generous gifts!

Christian Neighbors serves our local community with wisdom and discretion, so we are benefiting our actual neighbors.

But that is not all. Christian Neighbors has educational opportunities for its clients. They help individuals build skills and become self-sufficient. This is such an important part of their mission that they have planned to build a new education building in 2022.

Christian Neighbors is also able to provide emergency financial assistance to families in need in the form of medical, utility, and rent expenses.

Be assured your gifts are acknowledged and appreciated by those who receive them.

Thank you for your generosity and kindness!

Your friends in Jesus, Irwin and Judy Bolenbaugh

 

 
 

(full prayer list)

Paul Myers, surgery

Christian Neighbors

Items for December are macaroni and cheese, and canned pasta

2022 offering envelopes are available in your box. Please pick them up and save us the postage! If you won’t use it, please turn it in to the office with a note. Thank you!

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • December 18th, 1:45 pm Caroling

  • December 19th 9:00 am Children’s Christmas service, 10:30 am regular service

  • December 24th, 4:30 pm & 6:30 pm Candlelight Service

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

  • December 26th 9:30 am Service

  • December 27th Office closed

  • January 2nd, 9:00 and 10:30 am regular services

  • January 12th Study groups restart

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Good news for Peace December 10, 2021

This week’s lessons:

 
 

Hello friends and acquaintances of Peace,

I’m excited to work with you after last week’s message to build a great church. Let’s build a gathering of people that tells the word God is present. We did that this week at Team and Task Time, Sunday decorating, and Gingerbread Bash! Check it out! What People is This: Temple (God's dwelling) — Peace (peaceotsego.org)

What guides us as we go about building a great church? A great text. The Bible is a great text that tells the world we’re all about goodness and grace.

We’re getting ready for Gingerbread Bash, a Christmas for Kids event. I’m looking forward to our children’s Christmas service on December 19th at 9:00. And we’ll have some wonderful celebrations on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day - I’d love to have your help!

See you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30!

Pastor T

Christmas 2021

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

KIDS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 19TH @ 9:00 A.M. (10:30 regular service)

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

CHRISTMAS DAY December 25th @ 10:00 A.M.

December 26th @ 9:30 A.M.

We’d love to prepare a spot for you and your group. Click the button below and let us know how many people are coming in your group so we can prepare for you! Thanks!

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.

  • December 19th will be the last day to give to our called worker

  • December 26th will be the last day to give for 2021

 

 
 

Christian Neighbors

Items for December are macaroni and cheese, and canned pasta

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • December 17th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

  • December 18th, 2:00 pm Caroling

  • December 24th, 4:30 pm & 6:30 pm Candlelight Service

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

 

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

Peace Lutheran Church

805 S Wilmott St

Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104

https://peaceotsego.org

Officer elections and appointments 2022

About nominations

As we celebrate these holidays, the nominating committee, council, pastor and the entire congregation are considering individuals to help the congregation carry out its mission.

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

Please feel free to make suggestions for nominations to pastor or any of our council/elders (Charlie Kling, Tom Wright, Roger Commissaris, and Micah Rimpel).  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.

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 publicly, more often and more deeply.” Please pray for all the current and future servant-leaders of Peace.

Positions open for nomination

The position of president of the congregation is open for nomination.

  • Must not be a new convert

  • Voting member

  • Male, in good standing

  • 3 year term (2022-2024)

  • runs the council and congregational meetings

Council

For 2022, the council will be

  • President = up for nomination

  • Vice - president = Roger Commissaris

  • Elder = Tom Wright

  • Recording Secretary = Micah Rimpel

  • Pastor = Nathaniel Timmermann

Appointed positions

We’re also looking for the Lord to guide us to other individuals to serve around Peace

  • Maintenance coordinator = vacant

  • Financial secretary = Ralph Holewa

  • Bookkeeper = Andy Winter

  • Lead counter = Ralph Holewa

  • Musicians = looking for 1 - 2 more

  • Education coordinator/Sunday School superintendent = vacant

  • Choir director = Cindy Commissaris

  • Other elders = vacant

We’d love to partner with you in any of these areas. For the whole team, visit Team – Peace Lutheran Church (peaceotsego.church)

God bless you as you consider your place in God’s kingdom.