Good news for Peace May 5, 2022

 

Moms,

You carry a special burden. You carry in your soul all those hopes and dreams and wishes for your families. You carry their sorrows and pains. We can only begin to imagine what you carry.

For one day, we’d like to carry it with you. How can we join you in prayer this mother’s day? Share your prayer requests, anonymous, and we’ll pray this Sunday.

Respond to this email or text the office, 269-694-6104.

Thank you moms.

See you Sunday.

Pastor T

Scripture this Week

Music this Week

 

Ramps, ramps everywhere

Many thanks and “well dones” to our ramp team. They put up two ramps in the last week and have basically used up all our supplies!

We serve individuals who aren’t able to get out of their homes and can’t afford other ways of getting out through our “Ramp It Up” emphasis. We accept donations for the service.

We are always glad to share the gospel with people while we help them!

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day we set aside to remember with gratitude and pride all those who served and died for our country and our freedom. We would like to honor and show our gratitude for the sacrifices our loved ones made this Memorial Day. If you would like to help us plan a special Memorial Day tribute, please reach out to the pastor or Jessica.

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.

Please begin praying about who you can invite. Our next session will start this summer.

Join me!

“Crew Serves” Outreach Event

The Youth Crew is beginning a community outreach event to distribute food to specific individuals who need help. We’ll collect by May 15th and distribute on that day. Please start saving…

Ready to eat soups (like chunky soups)

Boxed potatoes

Hamburger helper

Pancake Mix/Syrup

Ramen noodles

Egg noodles & boxed Pasta

Thank you!

End of Year Celebration for Children

Plan to celebrate children studying God on Sunday May 22nd. We’re looking forward to being with you!

 

Don K

Jim K and family

The Timmermann family

Jerry K

Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

May Ushers: Tom Wright and Eric Sczcembara

Christian Neighbors: items for May are peanut butter and jelly.

Lawn mower Coordinator: We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around the church this summer. Click here for more info! https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/2022/3/17/lawn-mower-coordinator

Spring Work Day: Join us on May 7th @ 9 am to clean the building and grounds for spring. Click link for list https://bit.ly/3kt1Qcr

Administration Team

We are looking to expand the Administration Team. If you are interested talk to pastor.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • May 7th, 9 am Workday

  • May 13th, 12 pm Senior Luncheon

  • May 15th, 2:30 pm Youth Crew 131

  • May 21st, 9 am Faith and Culture Workshop

 

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 April 29

This week’s lessons: Acts 9:1-22, John 21:1-14

 

Dear friends,

Thank you for all the prayers and encouragements as we’ve considered and deliberated calls. We don’t have a decision, but I just want to thank you for being part of God’s body and kingdom with me. I can only pray that we live as the body of Christ, in the same way, all the time.

This is just one way we express our faith. We believe that God is at work in the world through his Word, ruling and reigning over our lives. You speak God’s Word to me, I listen. I speak it to you, you listen. And Jesus reigns! May his kingdom come among us.

I want to get more of that faith with you this weekend. We’ll walk with Paul, leave any self-righteous trappings behind, and walk-in grace. That’s faith!

See you Sunday, 9:00 or 10:30. Let me know how we can pray for you. We’re with you!

Pastor T

 

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day we set aside to remember with gratitude and pride all those who served and died for our country and our freedom. We would like to honor and show our gratitude for the sacrifices our loved ones made this Memorial Day. If you would like to help us plan a special Memorial Day tribute, please reach out to the pastor or Jessica.

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.

Please begin praying about who you can invite. Our next session will start this summer.

Join me!

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

Only the Christian faith offers a faith that is filled with truths that seem to compete, but when we believe both, everything becomes clear.

  • God judges sin harshly and forgives sin

  • God includes everyone through Jesus but excludes everyone who is not connected to Jesus

  • God is spiritual and works in our physical world

  • God gives us eternal life and life already now in Jesus

All these ideas and so many more are true.

Our next study will take a look at “Faith and Culture” as we seek a faith that sees through culture.

Join us Sunday at 7:50 am, Wednesday at 6:30 pm, or Thursday online at 8:00 pm. Starting May 30th! This will be our summer session.

I’ll have a special joint workshop on Saturday, May 21st at 9:00 am. I’ll roll a number of the sessions all into one!

Want one of the books that will guide us? Grab it here. Faith That Sees Through the Culture (cph.org)

“Crew Serves” Outreach Event

The Youth Crew is beginning a community outreach event to distribute food to specific individuals who need help. We’ll collect by May 15th and distribute on that day. Please start saving…

Ready to eat soups (like chunky soups)

Boxed potatoes

Hamburger helper

Pancake Mix/Syrup

Ramen noodles

Egg noodles & boxed Pasta

Thank you!

 

Don K

May Ushers: Tom Wright and Eric Sczcembara

Christian Neighbors: items for May are peanut butter and jelly.

Lawn Coordinator: We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around the church this summer. Click here for more info! https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/2022/3/17/lawn-mower-coordinator

Spring Work Day: Join us on May 7th @ 9 am to clean the building and grounds for spring. Click link for list https://bit.ly/3kt1Qcr

Administration Team

Our administrative position will be finished as of June 30th, 2022. At that time, Jessica Vandenberg will be done with her time at Peace and moving on to new adventures.

As our administrative assistant transitions, we would like to remake our administrative team. I’d like to have a team that contributes an average of 5-10 hours per week over the course of the year. So we could have ten people that work two hours each once per month or four people who work five hours each. It’s flexible!

Much of the work can also be done from home.

You can find out more about the duties of the administration team below.

Please consider if this might be a good way to serve. Please contact pastor for more info.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • April 29th, 6:30 pm Bunco

  • May 3rd, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

  • May 7th, 9 am Work day

 

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 April 21

This week’s lessons: Acts 5:12, 17-32, John 20:19-31

 

Dear friends,

Easter was an incredible weekend. What a wonderful declaration of the truth, “Jesus is alive”! I got a kick out of our cheer, “hip hip hooray, hip, hip hooray, Jesus is risen today.”

If you haven’t had a chance to watch our Easter service, please check it out - and subscribe to our Youtube channel!

“This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). The apostle John wrote that it isn’t our knowledge, our insight, or our skill that has overcome the world. It is our faith. Because Jesus lives, we live through faith.

Over the next few weeks, we want to get this faith. We want to think all about faith: what it does and how it works, how it grows, and what it becomes.

  • “Faith” - This week we start with an introduction to faith

  • “Coming to faith”

  • “False faith” or “fake faith”

  • “Everyone’s faith”

I think you can tell, we’re going to have a great time together hearing God’s Word. As you think about faith - your own and others - let me encourage you a little with a few resources. One of my favorite books on the nature of faith is the devotional book from Martin Luther, “Faith Alone”. Faith Alone (nph.net) I think it is one of the best short summaries of faith. There are all kinds of popular discussions on faith. I was surprised recently to see a discussion from a major filmmaker on faith. Adam McKay Thinks the Future Depends on Faith - RELEVANT (relevantmagazine.com)

I want to say a special thank you to all the people who did so much for our Holy Week worship. You guided us in considering our Savior. I pray you grew through the time even more than we did.

Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday - Kaitlyn, Sharon, Terry, and the choir

Good Friday - Cindy, Kaitlyn, Tom, Christian, Charlie, and the choir

Easter Sunday - Cindy, Kaitlyn, Sharon, and the choir

I also want to thank the whole host of people who worked behind the scenes to prepare so many wonderful things as part of the celebration, people including Cindy H, Eda, Ann, Jane, Tom, Rachel, the Timmermann family kids, Kaitlyn, Josh, Sarah, Frieda

Thank them for me!

Pastor T

 

Spring Workday

Please come help clean up the building and grounds for spring at Peace!

Spring workday will be May 7th at 9:00 am.

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 the class. Call or text 269-694-6104.

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

Only the Christian faith offers a faith that is filled with truths that seem to compete, but when we believe both, everything becomes clear.

  • God judges sin harshly and forgives sin

  • God includes everyone through Jesus but excludes everyone who is not connected to Jesus

  • God is spiritual and works in our physical world

  • God gives us eternal life and life already now in Jesus

All these ideas and so many more are true.

Our next study will take a look at “Faith and Culture” as we seek a faith that sees through culture.

Join us Sunday at 7:50 am, Wednesday at 6:30 pm, or Thursday online at 8:00 pm. Starting May 30th! This will be our summer session.

I’ll have a special joint workshop on Saturday, May 21st at 9:00 am. I’ll roll a number of the sessions all into one!

Want one of the books that will guide us? Grab it here. Faith That Sees Through the Culture (cph.org)

 

The Timmermann family

Easter joy

Jim K and family

Hillary S and Hudson

May Ushers: Tom Wright and Eric Sczcembara

Christian Neighbors: items for April are peanut butter and jelly.

Lawn Coordinator: We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around the church this summer. Click here for more info! https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/2022/3/17/lawn-mower-coordinator

Spring Work Day: Join us on May 7th @ 9 am to clean the building and grounds for spring.

Administration Team

Our administrative position will be finished as of June 30th, 2022. At that time, Jessica Vandenberg will be done with her time at Peace and moving on to new adventures.

As our administrative assistant transitions, we would like to remake our administrative team. I’d like to have a team that contributes an average of 5-10 hours per week over the course of the year. So we could have ten people that work two hours each once per month or four people who work five hours each. It’s flexible!

Much of the work can also be done from home.

You can find out more about the duties of the administration team below.

Please consider if this might be a good way to serve. Please contact pastor for more info.


Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • April 29th, 6:30 pm Bunco

  • May 3rd, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

  • May 7th, 9 am Work day

 

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 April 14

This week’s lessons:

Maundy Thursday Hebrews 10:15-25, Luke 22:7-20

Good Friday 7 Words from the Cross

Easter Sunday 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 24:1-12

 

Dear friends,

“He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” (Romans 4:25)

That’s my verse for the week. I’m chewing on that one a lot. During the most important week of the year for Christians, we think carefully about what it means. Paul summed it up.

Let’s deeply apply this gospel message to ourselves this week. Take the time to rest and reflect. Turn off your phone. Turn off the TV. Skip a few chores and errands. Go to a park. Walk around. Throw the baseball around.

And consider this, “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.”

I look forward to being with you this week. Service and volunteer info below.

Pastor T

Maundy Thursday

At crucial moments of our lives, we often end up eating in a hurry. It’s one of the worst things we can do and we know it, but still - how many of us didn’t show up at our own wedding just having scarfed down a hamburger?

This moment was no different. Jesus at the Passover, the meal that was meant to be eaten “in haste”, with his disciples.

We’ll be part of that new covenant Thursday evening at 6:30 pm.

  • Lord’s Supper

  • Terry B reading God’s Word

  • Choir singing “Who is That Man”

Good Friday

“he was delivered for our sins”. What does that mean? Find out Friday, April 15th at 6:30 pm.

The profound “Seven Words from the Cross” are shrouded in darkness and mystery. This is the mystery of our salvation; this is the mystery of redemption. Only God’s Word lets us peer into this sacred scene.

  • Thanks to a few men reading lessons

  • Choir singing “You Are There”

  • Darkness

“Jesus is Alive: Easter 2022”

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.

Easter Set-up Help

We are setting up for Easter on April 16th at about 10 am. Set up tables and chairs, guest gift bags, food prep, light cleaning, etc. If you can lend a hand, we’ll see you then!

 

 

Christian Neighbors: items for April are peanut butter and jelly.

Lawn Coordinator: We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around the church this summer. Click here for more info!

Spring Work Day: Join us on May 7th @ 9 am to clean the building and grounds for spring.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • April 14th, 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday

  • April 16th, 6:30 pm Good Friday

  • April 17th, 9 am & 10:30 am Easter Celebration, breakfast around 9:45 am

  • April 23rd, 9 am LMWS Spring Rally

  • April 29th, 6:30 pm Bunco

 

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

Pastor has been asked to serve at two other congregations

Dear friends in Jesus,

We wanted to let you know that Pastor Timmermann has been asked to serve at other churches. The first is Good Shepherd Lutheran in West Bend, WI. Church West Bend, WI (goodshepherdwels.org) The second is St Peter Lutheran in St Peter, MN. Saint Peter Lutheran Church and School He would like to share the following with us.

“I’d like to let you all know that I have received two requests to serve in other congregations.

Our Christian churches call these requests to serve in a specific place “calls” or “divine calls”. Hebrews 5:4 writes, “No one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by God, just as Aaron was. So Christ also did not take upon himself the glory of becoming a high priest.” People do not magically become pastors overnight. Whatever sense they have of an inner call should be confirmed by groups of Christians. These calls are just that. They are confirmation from God, through the church, that I am welcome in Christian ministry.

Over the coming weeks, my family and I will deliberate both calls. I will seek God’s guidance through his Word and people. I invite people from both congregations to reach out to me. I’d love to hear from you. I trust that God will 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 Good Shepherd or St Peter. All the calls are equally valid. We will follow God’s guidance through his Word, his people, and our gifting.

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

I’m grateful that Jesus is Lord of the church through all the things that are going on and he still leads us forward in his mission. I can’t wait to see what he does in both locations through his mighty gospel!

In Christ, 

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

Please do reach out to pastor, let him know you are praying for him, and encourage him as he considers where best to serve.

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

 

Good news for Peace April 7

This week’s lessons: Philippians 2:5—11, Luke 19:20-28

 

Dear friends,

Everybody in this life is controlled by someone. Everyone. No one is completely free all on their own.

In the gospel, you get a king who says, "I love you. I love you so much that I will go against my own nature for the benefit of your nature. I will so order and rearrange my life so that I can lead the charge against sin and death. I'm not the kind of ruler who will just send slaves to blindly obey my commands. I will actually go first. And I will die for you. I love you that much."

Isn’t that amazing? He loves you that much!

This week, we join in praising our humble king. We’re celebrating what we call “Palm Sunday” or “Passion Sunday”. We remember the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem as a king, but a humble king.

Services will be at 9 and 10:30.

Part of that will be a palm processional. During the palm processional, we’ll march together into the sanctuary carrying palm branches. Matthew and John tell us that people waved these branches when Jesus rode into town. We do the same thing to honor him.

See you this weekend at 9:00 or 10:30 for Jesus’ humility.

Pastor T

Easter services

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.

Easter flowers

I have to order Easter flowers Monday. Please fill out the form or contact the office at 269-694-6104 to get some flowers. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/91a37a

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!

Easter Set-up Help

We are looking for a few volunteers for Saturday, April 16th to help set up for Easter. If you can lend a hand, we’ll see you then!

 

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!

Christian Neighbors: items for April are peanut butter and jelly.

Lawn Coordinator: We’re looking for someone to help coordinate the lawn mowing around the church this summer. Click here for more info!

Spring Work Day: Join us on May 7th @ 9 am to clean the building and grounds for spring.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

  • April 14th, 6:30 pm Maundy Thursday

  • April 16th, 6:30 pm Good Friday

  • April 17th, 9 am & 10:30 am Easter Celebration, breakfast around 9:45 am

 

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 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.””

 

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 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

 

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 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)

 

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 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