Good news for Peace July 28

Hi people of Peace!

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

Virtual services

Last week I invited you to get into God’s Word in a better way than livestreaming services.

For example, what about love?

The other week, we had some tough interactions at church. I won’t say what, but there was some tough stuff. As we finished, I looked at everyone and said, hey, I know this isn’t easy. Just remember the great purposes we are working for together. We are bringing people the gospel. We are seeing God’s kingdom come. Let’s keep working for that greater purpose. I love you all and I love working with you.

Where else do you get to do that? You can’t do that on a livestream.

I see the value of livestream. It helps in a few situations. But it can’t replace the real life we have together as Christians.

Come enjoy that life with us. Love to be part of it with you.

The Service

Preview this week’s service https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uofWFBFgHM9MnZCzbJdxSh5o8d7wIJtqssZGn7qlNlk/edit?usp=sharing

Beach Day

Let’s cool off and enjoy some end of summer fun August 7th.

1:00 - 5:00 pm

We’ll be at Yankee Springs Recreational Beach for the afternoon. Food and fun! https://goo.gl/maps/187KNMbpH78HngYc6

Service Times

Starting September 11th, we’ll move from two services to one service.

We’ll have one service at 9:30 am. Not 9:00, or 10:00 or 10:30, but 9:30 am.

I’ve enjoyed, and I think many of us have enjoyed, two services. We’ve had space. We’ve had a more intimate experience. We’ve had a chance to get to know people better (if you can’t get to know people with 30 or 40, you’ll never do it with 80 or 100). We’ve had options.

Despite these positives, the experiment has started to go an unhelpful way. We’re concerned about the attendance, our hope for the future, and our commitment to walking together.

Let’s compromise, come together at one new time for all of us, and be a new people.

Otsego Ready or Not 5K Run

Sign up to run with the people of Peace. August 6th 8:00 am. Otsego Ready or Not 5K (runsignup.com)

July Ushers: Richard Ueck, Dave Grimm

August ushers: Marc Nelson, Mike Grimm

Christian Neighbors: items for July are fruit juice and cereal

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• July 24th 5:00 pm Youth Crew work meeting

• September 11th 9:30 am Fall kick off (groups and activities restart for fall)

• September 21st 6:30 pm Night of Song

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 July 21

Hi people of Peace!

See you Sunday at 9 or 10:30 am.

Striping the lot

We had some good truck fun this week. We got the lot cleaned so that it can be striped coming up. I hope that all your cars will fill the lot!

Virtual services

While we attempt to regularly livestream our Sunday service, I want to encourage you to use caution as you approach streaming church services.

There aren’t any Bible verses that speak directly to live streaming.

I encourage you to remember verses like “Where two or three gather in my name” (Mt 18:20) and consider that two or three is the minimum number of people, not the maximum :-).

I encourage you to remember that there are nearly one hundred places that speak about “one another” - ways we should behave towards one another and be together.

I know as well as anyone else that there is a plethora of services out there. You can find a service of God’s Word from all over the world and every theological perspective. I know there are plenty of seemingly good reasons to livestream services at home.

Even the New York Times has pointed out a couple of times that live-streaming isn’t the same thing. https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/30/opinion/church-online-services-covid.html

Think about it some.

The Service

Preview this week’s service https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J0-PFyuBIKPfibQw_c6jCZCNY8sNTItThC3o3GneGjY/edit?usp=sharing

Welcome Home!

We’ll have a special event on Sunday, October 30th to welcome people home who have been gone for a while.

Pastor would love to have a small team of people to help for the day. We’ll have special invites, a chili cook-off, a photographer, and more.

Connect with pastor to help out!

Beach Day

Let’s cool off and enjoy some end of summer fun August 7th.

1:00 - 5:00 pm

We’ll be at Yankee Springs Recreational Beach for the afternoon. Food and fun! https://goo.gl/maps/187KNMbpH78HngYc6

July Ushers: Richard Ueck, Dave Grimm

Christian Neighbors: items for July are fruit juice and cereal

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• July 24th 5:00 pm Youth Crew work meeting

• September 11th 9:00 Fall kick off (groups and activities restart for fall)

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 July 7

Hi people of Peace!

My own personal brand kind of stinks. I can’t seem to keep a website up, my podcast and youtube are not popular, and I’ve got just a normal number of friends and followers on all my social media.

I know, I know. Most of you say, pastor, this is silly. Who cares?

You might not. I’m glad you love me no matter how well-known I am. I love you too.

There is some value in a personal brand. The great teachers of Christian history - Martin Luther, CFW Walther, Charles Spurgeon, Billy Graham, Augustine, and many more were all well-known.

But some people take their own name way too far. Solomon is one of those examples. We’ll see his failure this week.

To think about our church’s brand a little, check out this article. Church branding is not about its logo | Praise & Proclaim Ministries (praiseandproclaim.com). I’ll see you on Sunday for the name of Christ.

When we gather this week

David, a man after God’s own heart, was overcome by the force of failure. We should not overestimate the force of failure and sin to destroy our own lives. https://peaceotsego.org/sermons/2022/7/7/failure-costs-but-youll-never-feel-its-full-force

Success can be just as forceful - and destructive. In 1 Kings 10-11 this week, we’ll see Solomon’s “failure”. It doesn’t show up right away. Read ahead a little.

God's Word this week

1 Kings 10-11

Psalm 22

Luke 9:18-24

Music this week

“Baptized into Your Name Most Holy”

“How Firm a Foundation”

“Lord of Glory You Have Bought Us”

Prayers this week

The family of Don K

Worship and music at Peace

See you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30 (outdoors)

Fall Ministry Work

We’ve got lots to do to get going for our fall ministry. Education classes for children and adults, events for our congregation and the people around us, and people to care for.

If you can help out this fall, it’s time to start talking with pastor.

To check out the whole Peace team, visit https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/team

July Ushers: Richard Ueck, Dave Grimm

Christian Neighbors: items for July are fruit juice and cereal

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• July 16th 11:00 am Christian funeral of Don Knobloch

• September 11th 9:00 Fall kick off (groups and activities restart for fall)

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 Don Knobloch

Don Knobloch

Dear friends and family of Don

On Saturday, July 2nd, Don finished his journey with us and was brought to his eternal rest with Jesus. I am comforted to know that he triumphs with all the saints because of his Savior. 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)

Don was a powerful example of sin and grace. He was constantly confronted and rebuked by mistakes and failures, and only comforted by the good news of Jesus - nothing else gave him encouragement. He served in countless little ways, making the coffee for years at church, driving local acquaintances around town, and serving weekly meals. No matter the challenges, we were all honored to follow Jesus with Don.

Obituary: To read Don’s obituary, please visit https://www.winkelfuneralhome.com/obituaries/. The obituary will be posted there when it is available.

Memorial: Don’s memorial service will take place on July 16th at Peace Lutheran Church at 11:00 a.m.

The service is open to the public.

The service will be available via livestream for those who are unable to attend in person. Please see our site https://peaceotsego.org/worship or visit our YouTube page Peace Lutheran Church - YouTube. The service will be available a little bit before 11 am and be archived afterwards.

Visitation: Visitation will take place on Friday July 15th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at Peace Lutheran Church; or from 10:00 - 10:45 am on Saturday July 16th at Peace Lutheran Church.

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

Interment: Interment will take place at Martin Cemetery

Memorial To give a memorial to Peace in honor of Don, please go to https://peaceotsego.org/give and select “Memorial” or attend the funeral.

I invite you to gather with all of us to mourn and celebrate the victory Jesus gave to Don. May Jesus work healing and hope in us.

Serving the living Savior

Pastor Nathaniel Timmermann

Please pray for Don’s family: 

Lord Jesus, by your victory over death you have opened the way to eternal life for all of us. Comfort Don’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 June 30

Hi people of Peace!

Night of Prayer

This week we kicked off a time of prayer and seeking God’s help to make good music. Over the next months, we’ll work together for some possible future musicians. Specifically, each of us is asking God for a few people who will help us make good Christian worship.

I invite you to take the time and pray with us.

Also, use this card or grab a copy at church to start praying for possible future musicians.

Dobbs decision

Last week a major decision regarding life was announced. I’m sure by now you’ve heard more about it than you’d like and I’m not going to add to that.

I’m here as your pastor to listen and provide guidance from God’s Word. If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or suggestions, please bring them forward. I’ll be glad to help out in any way I can.

We’re glad to protect life and we’re glad whenever others want to protect life. We encourage you to remain faithful to God’s Word, and to stand firm in the forgiveness and the approval of the gospel.

In case you haven’t seen them, both the WELS and our affiliated organization for supporting life, Christian Life Resources, responded to the ruling.

https://wels.net/wels-statement-on-roe-v-wade-ruling/

https://christianliferesources.com/2022/06/28/statement-on-overturning-roe-v-wade/

When we gather this week

One of the things that has struck me as we’ve looked at these stories from long ago is the compounding of failures. Abraham believed a lie about love. Then he convinced his wife to live that lie. Abimelek and the people of Gerar experienced sickness because of that lie.

We’ll see the same this week in the story of David.

God's Word this week

2 Samuel 11 & 12

Psalm 40

Luke 7:36-505

Music this week

“Father We Praise You”

“Lord to You I Make Confession”

“There is a Higher Throne”

“Before You Lord We Bow”

Prayers this week

Dave M - health and recovery

Don K - hospitalization

Our country and freedom

Worship and music at Peace

See you Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30 (outdoors)

Fall Ministry Work

We’ve got lots to do to get going for our fall ministry. Education classes for children and adults, events for our congregation and the people around us, and people to care for.

If you can help out this fall, it’s time to start talking with pastor.

To check out the whole Peace team, visit https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/team

Bike Outing

Thanks to everyone who enjoyed our bike outing! We hope you had a good time too.

July Ushers: Richard Ueck, Dave Grimm

Christian Neighbors: items for July are fruit juice and cereal

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• September 11th 9:00 Fall kick off (groups and activities restart for fall)

• October 30th Welcome Home Sunday

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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

We Worship! Worship and music at Peace

We Worship! Worship and music at Peace

Peace Lutheran Church has been part of a rich worship life that we want to see many future generations enjoy. 

We want to 

• Enable everyone from children to senior adults to both hear the gospel and be shaped by the gospel

• Be a church of Word and Sacrament

• Train people to bring others the gospel

• Be more a church that develops musicians, readers, speakers, teachers, etc than a church that uses such people - we’re going to enjoy and thank people who learn

• Be relationally significant - more than a family, be an eternal family 

• Have live music - sing with live musicians

• Let children be a regular part of our worship, including supporting worship with music and instruments

More than using or having musicians, we want to develop musicians. 

More than enjoying music or having music, we want to make music. 

More than celebrating our choices, we want to glorify God's grace. 

We are focused on the work of the true proclamation of God’s Word according to the Lutheran Confessions to the real people around us for all our eternal good.

Seeking musicians we can work with

For the next sixth months, we are praying for and seeking God’s help with individuals who could someday make music with us.

By God’s grace, before Christmas this year, we’ll be able to fill out this image.

In order to see who God could provide as possible future musicians, we are each going to think of and prayer for 5 people. We’re each identifying people who either

• might already be musicians and are looking for a group of believers to join with in music making

• or might be underdeveloped musicians already sharing our convictions

• or might be good leaders who want to learn music

We’ll collect these cards in November as we prepare to give thanks for possible future musicians. Download the card below and use it yourself or pick up a copy at church.

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 June 23

Hi people of Peace!

Twice this week people asked me, “why are people saying that to you? What have you been telling them?” In those moments, I had to face up to who I was and what I had been saying and doing. It was about money. Had I become greedy and selfish? There is nothing wrong with discussing finances. Money is an important part of our lives and we need to steward it well. We can’t become greedy.

What about you? Did you face your failures this week? Did God convict you of sin? If he did, be sure to hear God’s Word of forgiveness this weekend.

God's Word this week

Genesis 20:1-18

Psalm 30

Luke 7:11-17

Music this week

“Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed”

“When in the Hour of Utmost Need”

“Jesus Lives! The Victory’s Won”

Prayers this week

Jim Walkley Jr

Don Knobloch - thanksgiving

Congratulations to the choir for a great year, and a big thanks to Kaitlyn Nelson for her musical gifts. May God be with her as she goes forward in faith.

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

God bless!

Pastor Nathaniel T

Night of Prayer

As we work on our musicians and worship life, we’ll gather for a night of worship and prayer. The night of prayer is simply a night for us to gather for no other purpose than to pray together and sing a little for our worship and music life.

We’re going to gather together and ask God to help us be people who worship him well, who make beautiful, gospel telling music, and raise up musicians for many years.

Our brief time of prayer will be about 30 minutes.

June 29th at 6:30 pm.

“Ridin’ The Way” - Bike outing

Join our “Ridin the Way” bike outing Sunday at 3:00 pm. Sign up below!

June Ushers: Terry Brower & Andy Winter

July Ushers: Richard Ueck, Dave Grimm

Christian Neighbors: items for June are soup beans; kidney, navy, black

Fall Ministry Work

We’ve got lots to do to get going for our fall ministry. Education classes for children and adults, events for our congregation and the people around us, and people to care for.

If you can help out this fall, it’s time to start talking with pastor.

We’ll get going for real at the July Team and Task Time, July 5th, 6:30 pm.

To check out the whole Peace team, visit https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/team

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• June 25th, 9:00 am Faith and Culture Workshop Part 2

• June 26th, 3:00 pm “Ridin’ the Way” Bike Outing

• June 29th, 6:30 pm Night of Prayer

• July 5th, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time - start putting together fall ministry

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 June 16

Hi people of Peace!

As a teenage boy, I didn’t care about politics much. One event has stuck out in my mind. Bill Clinton was accused of an affair. I remember him publicly stating on national television, “I did not have sexual relations with that woman.” That was a tall tale.

It’s one thing to fail, big time, publicly. It’s another thing entirely to fail to admit to it.

This week we’ll start to hear what God says about famous failures. Look forward to seeing you Sunday!

We’re also saying farewell to Kaitlyn Nelson (not a failure!) after her faithful service for the last few years. We’ll pray for her at both services and have a little celebration between services. We pray that God goes with her. We ask that she walk with humility, listen to God’s Word, and enjoy God’s approval in Jesus Christ!

Second, I want to say thank you to the Wedges and Josh G for their willingness to carry God’s work forward. Glad to have you! They are part of a big team - that needs you! Check out the current team at https://peaceotsego.org/peacenews/team

God's Word this week

Exodus 2:11-25

Psalm 100

Luke 7:1-10

Music this week

“O God Our Help in Ages Past”

“Chief of Sinners Though I Be”

“How Firm a Foundation”

Night of Prayer

As we work on our musicians and worship life, we’ll gather for a night of worship and prayer. I challenge us to place our trust in him on June 29th at 6:30 pm.

Father’s Day

Fathers, thank you for your service. We look forward to honoring you this Sunday, June 19th.

Space for Your Event

Do you have a special event or celebration coming up and need space? Any space on-site except for the sanctuary can be used for non-ministerial events like graduation parties, baby showers, anniversaries, birthday parties, group gatherings, etc. We’d be glad to host your event! Please bring any requests to pastor or council for review.

To review the current facility use policy and see if your event is eligible, please click below.

“Ridin’ The Way” - Bike outing

Join our “Ridin the Way” bike outing next weekend June 26th. Love to see you!

Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

Don K

Jerry K

Judi D

Dave M - surgery

Maggie C - granddaughter of Phyllis C, has MS and family is struggling to care for her

June Ushers: Terry Brower & Andy Winter

Christian Neighbors: items for June are soup beans; kidney, navy, black

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• June 17th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

• June 18th Choir party

• June 19th Kaitlyn N farewell, Father's Day (root beer floats)

• June 22nd, 6:00 pm Ladies Night Out @ Main Street Pub on Gull Road

• June 25th, 9:00 am Faith and Culture Workshop Part 2

• June 26th, 3:00 pm “Ridin’ the Way” Bike Outing

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 June 09, 2022

Note: This is the last news that will come from Jessica at jvandenberg@peaceotsego.org. Next week news will come from ntimmermann@peaceotsego.org.

Hi people of Peace!

Many thanks to our hardworking assistant Jessica. She has spent the last couple of years keeping us organized and on the ball. We said goodbye to her on Sunday. We'll miss her.

She'll spend the next couple of weeks transitioning work to pastor. Please send your calendar requests, announcements, and other general questions to ntimmermann@peaceotsego.org.

Communion

We’ll celebrate the Lord’s Supper this week. Please prepare accordingly and consider letting pastor know in advance to encourage good preparation. What it means to be truly Lutheran: Lord’s Supper – FORWARD IN CHRIST

God's Word this week

Numbers 6:222-27

Romans 5:1-5

Matthew 28:18-20

Music this week

“Only a Holy God”

Psalm 150

“Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty”

“Glory Be To God the Father”

Kaitlyn Nelson Farewell

We’re thankful to Kaitlyn for all the ways she has served us in the last few years. Please join us on June 19th at both services to pray for her and say thank you.

Night of Prayer

As we work on our musicians and worship life, we’ll gather for a night of worship and prayer. I challenge us to place our trust in him on June 29th at 6:30 pm.

Father’s Day

Fathers, thank you for your service. We look forward to honoring you next week, Sunday, June 19th.

Space for Your Event

Do you have a special event or celebration coming up and need space? Any space on-site except for the sanctuary can be used for non-ministerial events like graduation parties, baby showers, anniversaries, birthday parties, group gatherings, etc. We’d be glad to host your event! Please bring any requests to pastor or council for review.

To review the current facility use policy and see if your event is eligible, please click below.

“Ridin’ The Way” - Bike outing

We’re kicking off summer with a bike outing. June 26th 3:00 pm - 5:30.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

Here is the schedule and plan for the day:

• 3:00 at Peace - bicycle safety demo and training

• 3:30 at Peace - bicycle maintenance demo and training with Ryan from Kalamazoo Swift https://www.kzooswift.com/. Ryan will be here to show us the basics of bicycle maintenance and then help you diagnose/fix more specific problems.

• 4:30 leave Peace on bike ride to North Side Park https://goo.gl/maps/gAFAc8dgb3hotJNi6

• 5:00 arrive at park, cookout dinner (provided), and play

We’ll be done at 5:30 pm. We’ll have a trailer and haul bikes back to Peace where you can get your ride to head home. If you want to bike back or get picked up at North Side Park, that is fine too.

There is no cost for the event, but we suggest a donation of $5 per person to cover food and supplies. Registration is limited; can’t wait to see you!

Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

Don K

Jerry K

Judi D

Lonnie H - step son died in an accident

Dave M - surgery

Maggie C - granddaughter of Phyllis C, has MS and family is struggling to care for her

June Ushers: Terry Brower & Andy Winter

Christian Neighbors: items for June are soup beans; kidney, navy, black

Team and Task Time: June Team and Task Time will wrap up the children’s ed work for the year, review the outreach and plan for next year, build some devotional kits for families, and all the things you want to do too. Join me on June 15th at 6:30 pm.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• June 15th, 12:00 pm Lunch bunch @ 84th St Pub and Grill https://84thstpub.com/

• June 15th, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

• June 17th, 11:00 am Ladies Guild

• June 18th Choir party

• June 19th Kaitlyn N farewell, Father's Day (root beer floats)

• June 22nd, 6:00 pm Ladies Night Out @ Main Street Pub on Gull Road

• June 25th, 9:00 am Faith and Culture Workshop Part 2

• June 26th, 3:00 pm “Ridin’ the Way” Bike Outing

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 June 02, 2022

Hi people of Peace!

I spent a little time recently looking at the changing WELS Michigan area churches and I thought I would share that with you.

Summary

The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s Michigan District covers a geographical area that includes Michigan, a small part of Indiana, Ohio, part of Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. We are 135 churches where more than 9,000 people gather to receive God’s gifts and declare his name each week.  

Congregations 

In 2000, individuals of the Michigan district gathered at 151 congregations. In 2010, we gathered in 144 congregations; in 2019 143, and in 2021 135 congregations.  

Attendance 

The congregations of our district have persisted despite the changes in active participation that have been going on at the same time. In 2000, 19,967 men, women, and children gathered to worship in congregations of our district; each congregation averaged 132 people in worship. In 2010, 16,369 people gathered each week for worship in 144 congregations. Despite closing 7 congregations, the average attendance declined to 116 people per week. From 2010 to 2019, the number of congregations remained quite stable even though attendance changed significantly. In 2019, 92 people on average gathered to hear God’s Word each week in 143 congregations for a total of 13,119 people. By 2021, that number dropped to 9,362 with an average of 69 people attending each congregation. On average, attendance at our churches has declined 2% per year from 2000 to 2019.  

Distribution by attendance size 

I think the distribution of the congregations by attendance is more significant than the average size. I’m grouping the congregations in the following way: 0-24 attendees – a mission church/church plant, 25-39 attendees – very small church, 40-69 attendees – a larger small church, 70-124 attendees – small church/solo pastor church, 125-199 attendees – medium church, pastor and part-time team, 200 + attendees – larger church. The table below shows the changing distribution. Many congregations have changed significantly.  

Attendance range	2010	2019	2021
Less than 24	6	15	20
25-39	15	28	33
40-69	36	36	31
70-124	39	29	33
125-199	25	19	11
Over 200	20	16	7

Perhaps you will find this information enlightening and directive. I know that I have learned from this quick review of our statistics.

We are thankful for the opportunity to proclaim God’s Word and administer his Sacraments. We pray that we may be faithful to the task.

I look forward to seeing you this weekend as we enjoy “Clear Communication”! Come join me to say farewell to our admin. Services at 9:00 and 10:30.

In Jesus,

PT

Jessica V Farewell

We’ll send off our administrative assistant, Jessica VanDenBerg, on June 5th. Please take a moment to sign a card for her and plan to join us.

“Ridin’ The Way” - Bike outing

We’re kicking off summer with a bike outing. June 26th 3:00 pm - 5:30.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

Here is the schedule and plan for the day:

• 3:00 at Peace - bicycle safety demo and training

• 3:30 at Peace - bicycle maintenance demo and training with Ryan from Kalamazoo Swift https://www.kzooswift.com/. Ryan will be here to show us the basics of bicycle maintenance and then help you diagnose/fix more specific problems.

• 4:30 leave Peace on bike ride to North Side Park https://goo.gl/maps/gAFAc8dgb3hotJNi6

• 5:00 arrive at park, cookout dinner (provided) and play

We’ll be done at 5:30 pm. We’ll have a trailer and haul bikes back to Peace where you can get your ride to head home. If you want to bike back or get picked up at North Side Park, that is fine too.

There is no cost for the event, but we suggest a donation of $5 per person to cover food and supplies. Registration is limited; can’t wait to see you!

Piano recital

Congratulations to the students of Lori B! They all played really well for their recital on Tuesday night. So wonderful to enjoy another group of musicians! Keep up the good work! If you are looking for private music lessons, we encourage you to consider Lori Beason

trbeason@juno.com

Maxine S - recovery after a fall

Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

Families around Uvalde, Texas

Don K

Jerry K

Judi D

Lonnie H - step son died in an accident

June Ushers: Terry Brower & Andy Winter

Christian Neighbors: items for June are soup beans; kidney, navy, black

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• June 6th - 8th District convention

• June 10th 12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

• June 15th, 12:00 pm Lunch bunch @ 84th St Pub and Grill https://84thstpub.com/

• June 15th, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

• June 17th 11:00 am Ladies Guild

• June 19th Kaitlyn Nelson farewell

• June 22nd, 6:00 pm Ladies Night Out @ Main Street Pub on Gull Road

• June 25th 9:00 am Faith and Culture Workshop Part 2

• June 26th 3:00 pm “Ridin’ the Way” Bike Outing

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 May 26, 2022

Hi people of Peace!

I’m so sad for the losses our country, and especially students have faced lately. It’s true that for the history of the world and in many places around the world, kids are frequently in danger. That doesn’t change the bottom line: no one, especially our kids, should have to worry about their safety each day.

Students, we love you and care about you. We want you to be safe, content, and hopeful. We will walk with you and guide you to a rich life in Jesus, even as you experience all the changes of life.

You live in a real-world that has many challenges. People are corrupted and the world is decaying. There is so much goodness, truth, and beauty that is worth pursuing. Don’t let the challenges distract you from goodness and truth.

Parents, grandparents, and adults don’t get distracted by the politics. The debates matter, but not to your kids. They want to know who they are and who their friends are. Those are conversations worth having.

• What are you afraid of?

• Do you have hope? What is your hope?

• I love you, we love you. You are loved. We don’t need to fix you. We care about you because God has cared for us.

Memorial Day

This week we honor those who gave their life to serve us. We would also like to thank our service members listed below for the sacrifices they made for us.

Irwin Bolenbaugh Ralph Holewa Paul Myers

Gary Coombs Larry Hutchinson Christian Stinson

Shawn Gavan Don Hutchinson Richard Ueck

John Gazley James Keith Jim Walkley

David Grimm Jim Keith Ray Winkel

Gretchen Handley Allen Keller Daton Wright

Charles Handley Thomas Klein

Tom Handley Ron Miller

Thomas Handley Sr. David Myers

COLLEGE INFO

One special note this week. Colleges affiliated with our church (and the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod) invite our high school students to get connected with the schools. I’m going to pass on the links and parents or students can sign up for information if they’d like.

Wisconsin Lutheran College (liberal arts college in Milwaukee, WI) https://admissions.wlc.edu/register/confirmands

Martin Luther College (WELS College of Ministry) email church@peacetosego.org and give permission

Assignments

Our synod provides one of the most thorough, ministry-focused education systems in the country. Each May, we assign a new batch of pastors to congregations. You can check out the recent assignment service here https://livestream.com/wlslive/2022-assignment-service and the places where they were assigned here https://www.wisluthsem.org/rmdevser_wls/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/2022-Graduate-and-Vicar-Assignments.pdf.

The current assignments remind us just how incredible the need is for gospel bringers. Even after call day, we’re short 140-something pastors. Consider joining the public ministry in some way!

See you Sunday at 9 or 10:30 as God opens our hearts to respond!

Pastor T

Scripture this Week

Acts 16:6-16

Psalm 14

John 17:20-26

Music this Week

“Baptismal Waters Cover Me”

“Jesus My Great High Priest”

“We Give Thee But Thine Own”

“O Church Arise”

Jessica V Farewell

We’ll send off our administrative assistant, Jessica VanDenBerg, on June 5th. Please take a moment this weekend to sign a card for her and plan to join us next weekend.

Outdoor service

Outdoor services start this week! If the weather cooperates, we intend to move the 10:30 service outdoors on May 29. Start bringing your friends to enjoy the beauty and God’s wonderful Word!

We Worship!! - Music planning

As we mentioned this last week at church, the council, pastor, and musicians have been working hard to see how God might be directing us through our musical challenges.

Last Sunday, we released a proposal for your review and feedback. We don’t feel like it is a major change from our previous direction. It will take your involvement through prayer, encouragement, and so much more.

I encourage you to read it over. Please share any feedback and let’s keep doing God’s work together!

2022-2023 musician plan

Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

Families affected by the recent shooting

the Jim Keith family

Peace

Don K

Jerry K

Thompson family - loss of brother, brother in law

Maxine S - recovery after a fall

Judi D

Lonnie H - step son died in an accident

May Ushers: Tom Wright and Eric Sczcembara

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

Lay delegate: We’re looking for a voter of the congregation to represent the congregation to the district this summer. The convention will take place June 6-8 (leave 6th, return 8th). You’ll attend with pastor; expenses paid.

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• May 29th, 10:30 am First outdoor service, weather permitting

• June 3rd, 6:30 pm Bunco

• June 6th - 8th District convention

• June 15th, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 May 19, 2022

Hi people of Peace!

Great word this last week. We don’t just have faith. We are people of faith. If you missed it, check it out. Faith: We are people of faith — Peace (peaceotsego.org)

Faith does not just receive. Faith also gives something. “Faith justifies the sinner by paying God the honor due His offended majesty”. "Faith" in the Mature Luther | 1517 Faith gives God exactly what he deserves: honor. And there is nothing better.

Let’s get together this week to give God what he deserves, not just with worship but with faith.

See you Sunday at 9 or 10:30

Pastor T

Scripture this Week

Acts 14:8-18

John 14:23-29

Music this Week

“Child of God”

“There is a Higher Throne”

“Dear Christians One and All Rejoice”

“Go My Children”

“Crew Shares”

The “Crew Shares” event went great this last Sunday. Thanks to Zach Hayes and the youth crew. In connection with other churches, we gathered more than 1,000 pounds of food, organized it at Christian Neighbors, and made custom deliveries to local contacts. Thanks for your partnership and be sure to encourage them!

Our “Faith and & Culture” workshop part 1 will take place on Saturday, May 21st at 9:00. If you’re already attending one of the other sessions during the week, don’t come. It’s the same. But if you aren’t in the Word with other people at another time, come on out!

Saturday May 21st at 9:00 am!

Outdoor service

Outdoor services coming soon! If the weather cooperates, we intend to move the 10:30 service outdoors on May 29. Start bringing your friends to enjoy the beauty and God’s wonderful Word!

We Worship!! - Music planning

As we mentioned this last week at church, the council, pastor, and musicians have been working hard to see how God might be directing us through our musical challenges.

Last Sunday, we released a proposal for your review and feedback. We don’t feel like it is a major change from our previous direction. It will take your involvement through prayer, encouragement, and so much more.

I encourage you to read it over. Please share any feedback and let’s keep doing God’s work together!

2022-2023 musician plan

Training Children in the Way of Jesus: Recognition and Celebration for Children

We’ll have a recognition and celebration for our children’s growth in God’s Word on May 22nd. We’ll begin during the 9:00 service with prayer for them and public encouragement.

After service will have some games and light snacks so that we can all encourage them.

Look forward to being with you! Bring a card to give to the students!

Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

the Jim Keith family

Peace

Don K

Jerry K

Thompson family - loss of brother, brother in law

Maxine S - recovery after a fall

May Ushers: Tom Wright and Eric Sczcembara

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

Lawnmower 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

Lay delegate: We’re looking for a voter of the congregation to represent the congregation to the district this summer. The convention will take place June 6-8 (leave 6th, return 8th). You’ll attend with pastor; expenses paid.

Memorial Day is an excellent opportunity for us to remember those who have served our country, especially those who gave their lives for our freedom. If we can help your family remember a loved one, feel free to submit a name. If you have previously done so, you do not need to do so again unless you would like to correct our information. https://peace.breezechms.com/form/88041b

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• May 20th, 11 am Ladies Guild

• May 21st, 9 am Faith and Culture Workshop

• May 22nd, 9am Celebration of Children

• May 29th, 10:30 am First outdoor service, weather permitting

• June 3rd, 6:30 pm Bunco

• June 6th - 8th District convention

• June 14th, 6:30 pm Team and Task Time

Got this from a friend? Sign up here!

Want to visit with pastor? Schedule a visit/meeting.

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 May 12, 2022

Dear friends,

What’s a church? I think we all know it is more than people coming together to hear a good talk or sing some fun songs. I think one of every pastor’s favorite quotes is this short one from Martin Luther, “For, thank God, a child seven years old knows what the Church is, namely, the holy believers and lambs who hear the voice of their Shepherd.” (Martin Luther, The Smalcald Articles, III.12)”

The church is God’s people, gathered to hear God’s Word. Yes, we can all read that Word at home or in the park or on the bus or in the car or wherever, or even hear that Word, but God is special with his people in a unique way when we gather around that Word.

I hope you gather with me and all the rest of this Sunday. I miss you. We miss you. For more on the church, check this out. Church and Ministry – WELS

See you Sunday.

Pastor T

Scripture this Week

Acts 13:15-52, Psalm 145, John 13:31-35

Music this Week

“By Faith”, “Though I May Speak With Bravest Fire”, “This I Believe”, “How Shall They Hear”

Fallen Hero’s

This Memorial Day we would like to share life stories of our soldiers gone but not forgotten. We would be honored to hear about your soldier’s story and pay tribute to those that have fallen. Please send your loved one’s story to Pastor or Jessica.

Our “Faith and & Culture” workshop part 1 will take place on Saturday May 21st at 9:00. If you’re already attending one of the other sessions during the week, don’t come. It’s the same. But if you aren’t in the Word with other people at another time, come on out!

Saturday May 21st at 9:00 am!

Outdoor service

Outdoor services coming soon! If the weather cooperates, we intend to move the 10:30 service outdoors on May 29. Start bringing your friends to enjoy the beauty and God’s wonderful Word!

We Worship!! - Music planning

As we mentioned this last week at church, the council, pastor, and the musicians have been working hard to see how God might be directing us through our musical challenges.

This last Sunday, we released a proposal for your review and feedback. We don’t feel like it is a major change from our previous direction. It will take your involvement through prayer, encouragement, and so much more.

I encourage you to read it over. Please share any feedback and let’s keep doing God’s work together!

2022-2023 musician plan

“Crew Serves” Outreach Event

The Youth Crew is running a community outreach event to distribute food to specific individuals who need help. Middle school and high school students are welcome to attend!

On Sunday May 15th, we’re collecting:

• Ready to eat soups (like chunky soups)

• Boxed potatoes

• Hamburger helper

• Pancake Mix/Syrup

• Ramen noodles

• Egg noodles & boxed pasta

At 2:30 on May 15th, students are meeting at Christian Neighbors in Plainwell to distribute.

Done by 5:30 back at Peace! Thanks!

Training Children in the Way of Jesus: Recognition and Celebration for Children

We’ll have a recognition and celebration for our children’s growth in God’s Word on May 22nd. We’ll begin during the 9:00 service with prayer for them and a public encouragement.

After service will have some games and lights snacks so that we can all encourage them.

Look forward to being with you! Bring a card to give to the students!

Ukraine Ukraine – WELS

the Jim Keith family

the Timmermann family

Peace

Don K

Jerry K

Mothers

Middle school - high school students

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

Upcoming events (full calendar)

• May 13th, 12 pm Senior Luncheon

• May 15th, 2:30 pm Youth Crew 131

• May 29th, 11 am Ladies Guild

• 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

Please pray for the family of Jim Keith

Jim Keith

Dear friends and family of Jim,

On Saturday, May 7th, Jim 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)

Jim cared for his Lord and his family. He served them in big and little ways. Even though he came from a storied family (the Keith family has a castle in their past!), he humbled himself to serve us. What an honor.

Obituary: To read Jim’s obituary, please visit James B. Keith - Winkel Funeral Home | Otsego Michigan

Funeral: Jim’s funeral will take place on Wednesday May 11th at Peace Lutheran Church. The service will begin at 11:00 a.m.

The funeral is open to the public.

The service will be available via livestream for those who are unable to attend in person. Please see our site https://peaceotsego.org/worship or visit our YouTube page Peace Lutheran Church - YouTube. The service will be available a little bit before 11 am and be archived afterwards.

Interment: Interment will take place at Elmwood Cemetery in Wayland on Wednesday about 2:00 pm. Guests are welcome.

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

Visitation: Visitation will take place on Tuesday May 10th from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Winkel Funeral Home; or from 10:00 - 10:45 am on Wednesday May 11th at Peace Lutheran Church.

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

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

Serving the living Savior

Pastor Nathaniel Timmermann

Please pray for Jim’s family: 

Lord Jesus, by your victory over death you have opened the way to eternal life for all of us. Comfort Jim’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 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!

(full prayer list)

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!

(full prayer list)

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