Pastor’s Notes
We are approaching the 2nd Sunday of Lent as I write these notes. The journey to the Cross is just beginning and already we are asking ourselves, “What is God saying to me this year?”
Every year during Lent the Scriptures lead us into a time of reflection and study. Some folks give up something from their busy lives and dedicate those freed up resources to God. They may be giving up texting or Facebook and use that time to be in the Word or to sit in silence with God. Or some of our friends will be giving up chocolate or one of their other favorite foods and donate the cost of those favorites to the local food pantry so that those who wonder where their next meal is coming from can eat.
And there are others who don’t give up anything but instead make the decision to give-to their church, to their community, to their neighbor, to a friend, or to someone they haven’t met yet. Instead of giving up something they decide to donate their time in service, dedicating it to God.
Either way folks are actively engaged in paying attention to God, what he is saying and where he is working.
I have been using this time in Lent to learn more about how God would have me share his story with people I meet everyday.
The Old Testament lessons began with the Fall and this coming Sunday focus on Abram’s journey to the Promised Land that began when his father, Terah, left Ur. We will be with Samuel when God sends him to Jesse’s family to anoint a new king to replace Saul. The Sunday before Palm Sunday we will hear the story of Ezekiel and the valley of dry bones.
Each of these stories helps us understand God and his relationship with his children, and us. Every one of these people made mistakes somewhere in their journey but God didn’t abandon them. He ached when they hurt. He was sad when they turned away. But he always gave them a way back. In these stories there is forgiveness, discipline, and love.
God hasn’t changed. He’s still there for us as we make our way to Jerusalem and the Cross. God still loves us and through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection we are able to experience that love and forgiveness. And then, share that same love and forgiveness with those we encounter on our journey.
My prayer is that you will all take time this Lenten season to sit with God, read his Word for us, and serve as you are able with the help of the Holy Spirit.
The blessing of the God of Sarah and Abraham,
The blessing of the Son, born of Mary,
The blessing of the Holy Spirit who broods over us
Be with you all,
Pastor David
Lent
Let us look afresh at the different interpretations of FASTING-
Fasts have a tendency to be oriented toward things like giving up food or television. But here are many other creative ways we welcome Jesus’ healing touch.
Here are some suggestions you may want to consider:
1. Fast from anger and hatred. Give your family an extra dose of love each day.
2. Fast from judging others. Before making any judgements, recall how Jesus overlooks our faults.
3. Fast from discouragement. Hold on to Jesus’ promise that He has a perfect plan for your life.
4. Fast from complaining. When you find yourself about to complain, close your eyes and recall some of the little moments of joy Jesus has given you.
5. Fast from resentment and bitterness! Work on forgiving those who have hurt you.
6. Fast from spending too much money. Try to reduce spending by ten percent and give those savings to the poor.
Wishing you all Peace, Love, and Happiness during Lent.
Congratulations
To our youth named on the Honor Roll: Samantha Jensen, Ty Johnk, Emily Mitchell, Jared Ploen, Megan Ehlers, Sarah Ehlers, Kaitlyn Tooley, Lauren Sievers, Alyssa Becerra, and Chris Guthery.
To Karley Helms, Kelsey Helms and Josie Cable for being named to their college Dean’s List.
Thank-you
Thank-you to the Ehlers family for donating the meat for the youth group to make tacos.
Golden Oldies
Golden Oldies will be meeting for lunch at 11:30 at Peace Church on April 19th and at United Church of Avoca on May 17th. Please call ahead so they can plan accordingly.
May Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Chuck/Linda Ploen, George Mertz, Alice Richter
Communion Servers: Linda Ploen-chm., Chuck Ploen, Michelle Mertz, George Mertz
Presbyterian Women
On March 2nd a very interesting program was presented to the Presbyterian Women’s group by Amadeus Linzer, the school’s foreign exchange student from Austria. His talk included the
history of Austria, schools in Austria and he even brought the group several samples of
“sweets” that Austria is famous for. The next meeting will be April 6th at 1:30.
Spring Gathering
The “Spring Gathering” for Presbyterian Women “Discerning God’s Call” will be April 16th
in Plattsmouth, NE. Registration 8:45, Welcome 9:00, Meeting 10:00, Lunch (optional $6.00)
12:15. Featured speaker will by Pat Hammond, “Hearing God’s Call Through Rahab’s Rope”
(stories of God’s love in India). Charlotte needs to know by April 8th if you want to attend.
More info? Find a link to “The Bridger” at http://pmrv.org/pwomen.htm.
Flowers for April
April 3-----------Michelle Tooley
April 10----------Bonnie Holtz
April 17----------Easter Lilies
April 24----------Easter Lilies
One Great Hour of Sharing
The One Great Hour of Sharing offering provides all of us the opportunity to share in helping
the people in the world who are victims of natural disasters and other unfortunate events.
Special offering envelopes will be in your bulletins on March 20th until Palm Sunday when they
will be due. Remember the words of our Lord who said, “Do you love me?...Feed my sheep.”
When we consider all that Christ has done for us, let us consider this a privilege and our way
of saying thanks for His gifts to us.
The Legend of the Easter Lily
The Easter lily is the traditional flower of Easter and highly regarded as a joyful symbol of
elegance, beauty, spirituality, hope and life. The bulb buried in the ground represents the
tomb of Jesus and the white, trumpet-like, fragrant flowers symbolize the resurrection. The
snowy white color stands for the purity of Jesus and the joy of the resurrection, while the
trumpet shape signifies Gabriel’s trumpet call to rebirth and new life.
Earthquake in Japan
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is working to respond to the massive earthquake and
resulting tsunami that struck Japan March 10, killing unknown numbers of people and
sending tsunami waves across the Pacific.
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) has set up a direct response account for
donations. Click on or paste this link in your browser to donate via the web:
http://gamc.pcusa.org/ministries/pda/japan/
Individuals may also give through their congregation, by calling PresbyTel at (800) 872-3283, or by sending a check to: Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) P.O. Box 643700 Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700. Gifts should be designated for account DR000117 — Japan Earthquake and Tsunami.
From Presbyterian News Service
Bethany Furkin
Youth Group
Our 6th grade thru college age youth are holding a 30 Hour Famine/Homeless Awareness
Event April 15th and 16th. They will be starting to fast at 12:30 PM on Friday until 6:30 PM on Saturday. Along with this they will be sleeping outside the church in cardboard boxes to bring awareness to the plight of the homeless. They are accepting contributions for their efforts and will send them to World Vision.
Session Minutes
March 8, 2011
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on March 8th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex. (We had no February meeting due to the absence of Pastor David.) Those in attendance were: Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Jack Ploen, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Linda Krueger, and Jim Tooley. Absent were: Bonnie Holtz, Margo Matthies and Ty Johnk.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and a video entitled “Made to Make a Difference” by Max Lucado.
The minutes to the January 18th meeting were read and approved with one correction. Any extra money from the “Men’s Breakfast” will go towards “a” fishing trip instead of “the boys fishing trip”.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as read.
The Pastor’s report was read and approved. Pastor David traveled 47 miles.
Linda Ploen reported that she had received the commissioned Lay Pastor Agreement for David. She also received a letter and check from Wanda Sievers. David also reported that Presbytery meeting will be April 30th and they will be voting on change of order on Amendment 10A.
The clerk’s report was approved as given. There were no deaths. We received new members during our February 6th worship service. By letter of transfer we welcomed Todd, Darla, Alex and Megan Ehlers and Darren and Michelle Tooley.
Stewardship and Mission
Linda Krueger reported on our One Great Hour of Sharing offering. Envelopes will go out March 2oth and will be collected on Palm Sunday.
Christian Education
Robin stated that the Sunday School lock-in at the church will be April 30th with a PJ day at church on May 1st during worship service. The children will also sing at church on Mother’s Day. Robin also has now set up a Face Book account for church. Jim M. reported that 4 boys are planning on going on the fishing trip. The confirmation class will be going on a retreat to Calvin Crest from April 8-10. David will contact Roy Fox for a pulpit supply on April 10th since he will be with the confirmation class.
Worship
Communion was served at Peace Haven on January 2 and February 6th to 7 residents each Sunday. Serving elders were Linda Ploen and Bonnie Holtz. Community Lenten services begin March 16th at 6:00 at United Church in Avoca, March 23rd at St. Mary’s in Avoca, March 30th at Peace Church in Walnut, April 6th at Trinity Lutheran in Avoca and April 13th at First Presbyterian in Walnut. It was moved and 2nd to hold a joint Maundy Thursday service with United Church of Avoca at Peace Haven. We will serve communion. Motion carried. It was also moved and 2nd to hold the Easter sunrise service at 7:00 a.m. Motion carried.
Finance and Property
A report was given on the Midwest Lighting and Sound. Total invoice for the sound and graphic system was $23,069. We have paid $10,500, and will cash in a CD due on March 16th to pay the remainder. After discussion it was moved and 2nd to have Gary Blum construct a counter for the sound equipment at an estimated cost of $1,500. Motion carried. It was also moved and 2nd to send $20 to “Our Daily Bread” devotional booklets.
New Business
Jack Ploen, new elder, agreed to serve on the worship committee to replace retiring elder, Bobbie McDermott.
Meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be April 12, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Monday, March 21, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
February/March 2011 Gleaner
Pastor’s Notes
Another annual congregational meeting has been concluded. There were reports that detailed the last year's accomplishments and a new budget was approved. It's always good for us to read what God has accomplished through his church and to see where God is leading us in the coming year.
I especially enjoy hearing about things we should do as a church in the coming year. We are small but God does some very amazing things with the least and the weak. Through Jesus Christ we are more than we can ever imagine.
How do we know what God would have us do? How are we to know what God is inviting us to join him doing in mission? Our brothers and sisters in the Quaker church use a process called discernment to learn what God is doing or what he would have them do? Discerning what God is speaking to us and understanding what he is calling us to do and be is not something that happens quickly. It involves reading the Word, study, reflection, and prayer. Part of the process is bringing it to the leadership of the church and then waiting for their decision. Sometimes ideas aren't accepted the first time and so there is more reading of God's Word, study, reflection, and prayer. This takes place on both sides of issues. Not only do the people presenting ideas for change read, study, reflect, and pray but so do the elders who serve on the session.
Through this process we learn that it's not about what we desire but what God wants from us. It's all part of God's great plan for his church. We are called to make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Trinity. If we keep in mind what God has planned for his church then we can't fail. It's all about God and not us.
The last two Sunday's we have heard that God is calling us and Jesus is saying, “Come with me.” God wants us to follow his lead and join him in making things better in the world for those who are oppressed by the world. Through the power of God's Holy Spirit we are able to experience the joy of being in God's presence and doing his work here on earth.
Come and join us as we work together to bring justice, peace, and mercy to all God's people.
God's peace be with you all,
Pastor David
Choir News
Choir will practice on Feb. 2nd and sing on Feb. 6th. After many, many years of faithful service Darlene Stuart is stepping down as choir director. Darren Tooley is going to take over the leadership of this important part of our church service. We wish Darren much success in this new endeavor and sincerely thank Darlene for her years of service.
Lenten Services
Our Ash Wednesday Services will be at Peace UCC at 6:00 PM. on March 9th. We will be participating with Peace United in Walnut, Trinity Lutheran, St. Mary’s and United Church of Avoca in hosting Wednesday evening Lenten worship and a meal. These services begin at 6 PM. Mark your calendars. The first Wednesday service with the Avoca Churches will be March 16th at the United Church in Avoca. The services will be as follows:
3/16 – United Church of Avoca
3/23 – St. Mary’s in Avoca
3/30 – Peace UCC in Walnut
4/6 – Trinity Lutheran in Avoca
4/13 – First Presbyterian in Walnut
We will not be having Sunday evening services this year.
Church Humor
A Sunday school teacher said to her children, “We have been learning how powerful kings and queens were in Bible Times. But, there is a Higher Power. Can anybody tell me what it is?” One child blurted out, “Aces!”
Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women will meet at the church at 1:30 on Feb. 2nd.
March 13th Daylight Savings Time – Spring Forward!
Thank-you
Thank-you to anyone that gave miscellaneous paper gifts to the church.
Thank-you to Jon Mitchell for driving his bus for the carolers in December.
Thank-you to Gloria Myers for putting up and taking down the Christmas decorations.
Thank-you to the Presbyterian Women for our Lenten meal.
Thank-you to Mary Ellen and Linda Woltmann (and everyone else that helped) in preparing the meat for our Annual Meeting.
March Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Brett & Bonnie Holtz, David & Mary Woltmann – Communion Servers;
Jim McDermott-chm, David Woltmann, Mary Ellen Woltmann, Teri Abel
April Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Vincent & Phyllis Hansen, Linda Krueger Communion Servers;
Robin Tooley-chm., Margo Matthies, Gloria Myers, Linda Krueger
Per Capita – If you still haven’t paid it, it is $29.95.
Flowers for February
February 6---------- Michelle Mertz
February 13-------- Kathy Hansen
February 20-------- Alice Richter
February 27-------- Pam Nielsen
March 6--------------Linda Sieck
Flowers for March
March 6---------------Linda Sieck
March 13-------------Gloria Myers
March 20-------------Gloria Myers (for Tina Gregory)
March 27-------------Darla Ehlers
You may only be one person in the world,
But you may be the world to one person.
Youth News
Jim McDermott has a fishing trip to Minnesota lined up for the last week of July.
Robin Tooley, Jim and Bobbie McDermott, Linda Ploen and Pastor David are hosting a
spaghetti supper for the 7th-12th grade youth on January 30th. Their DVD Bible study will
follow.
Session Minutes
Special Session Minutes
The session of the First Presbyterian Church met in special session after church services on Sunday, December 26th, 2010. Present were Jim and Bobbie McDermott, Robin Tooley, Jim Tooley, Linda Krueger and Linda Ploen. Absent were Bonnie Holtz, Margo Matthies, and Dennis Jensen. It was moved and 2nd to approve the membership of Brinda Shirley on Sunday, January 9, 2011. Motion carried. It was also moved and 2nd to allow Pastor David to perform the wedding of Ron Hamilton and Rachael Beccera on January 15, 2011. Motion carried. Also discussed was the cost of the new sound system. It was suggested that we take $500 out of the youth fund to help with the cost. It was also mentioned that we pay $10,000 now and the rest later. Meeting closed with prayer.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Session Minutes
January 18, 2011
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on January 18th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex. Those in attendance were: Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Margo Matthies, Jim Tooley and Linda Krueger. Absent were: Bobbie McDermott, Bonnie Holtz and Val Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Hebrews 13:10-16. He also gave a reflection entitled “A Purpose Larger Than Ourselves”.
The minutes for the December 14th meeting and December 26th special meeting were read. It was mentioned that the amount paid to Midwest Lighting was $10,500 instead of $10,000 as reported in the December 26th minutes. The minutes were approved as revised.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as given.
The pastor’s report was given and approved. Pastor David traveled 272 miles this month. There were many visitations, gift deliveries, toys to Open Door Mission and the funeral for Bobbie Voggesser. Pastor David asked that someone open the church and do bulletins while he is on vacation. Jim McDermott will open the church and Robin will do bulletins.
There was no clerk’s report.
It was moved and 2nd to receive Brinda Shirley as a new member by reaffirmation of faith. Motion carried.
Stewardship and Mission
Linda Krueger reported that the One Great Hour of Sharing material is in. The offering will be received on Palm Sunday. She also stated that the issues of the February and March Gleaners will be combined since she will be on vacation.
Christian Education
Gloria Myers reported that she had received confirmation from Karley Helms that she was enrolled in her 2nd semester of college. It was moved and 2nd to approve the scholarship money for her. Motion carried.
Youth group has been rescheduled for Sunday, January 30th at 5:00 with a spaghetti supper. Jim M. stated that the boys will be going fishing the last week of July.
We also gave Robin permission to use the church for lock-ins for the younger Sunday School kids and one for the youth.
Worship
Communion was served to 10 residents at Peace Haven on January 2nd. Linda Ploen was the serving elder. Ash Wednesday is March 9th. Services will be at either our church or the Peace Church. Community Lenten services will be on Wednesday evenings at 6:00 with a meal and worship service. The schedule for services is as follows: 3/16-United Church of Avoca, 3/23-St. Mary’s, 3/30-Peace UCC, 4/6-Trinity Lutheran, and 4/13-First Presbyterian.
Finance and Property
There was a report on the new sound system from Midwest Lighting and Sound. They could possibly start installation by the end of January. They discussed placement of things. A motion was approved to upgrade on the new projector. It was also mentioned that we need a committee to decide how to get started with graphics for the sound and lighting.
Our 2011 Biennial Corporation Report is due. Jim Tooley and Pastor David will take care of this.
Jim Tooley also brought up our Putnam and Wells Fargo accounts. Because of an error in the mailing addresses, we are not receiving dividend checks. It was voted to take the money out of these accounts and place the money from them (minus some operating money) into our Edward Jones account. We may have to contact a lawyer to get this taken care of.
New Business
It was announced that Darren Tooley will now be in charge of choir. Thanks was given to Darlene Stuart for her many years of service.
The Community Assistance Program meeting will be February 23rd at 7 p.m. at United Church of Avoca.
Our nominating committee of Jim McDermott, Greg Mertz and Chuck Ploen need to find a replacement for the retiring elder and contact everyone filling a volunteer position to see if they will continue.
It was also mentioned that perhaps we could start hosting a “Men’s Breakfast” once a month. Everyone would be welcome and any extra money would go towards the boy’s fishing trip.
The meeting was closed with prayer.
There will be no February meeting since David will be gone. Our next meeting will be March 8, 2011 at 7 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Another annual congregational meeting has been concluded. There were reports that detailed the last year's accomplishments and a new budget was approved. It's always good for us to read what God has accomplished through his church and to see where God is leading us in the coming year.
I especially enjoy hearing about things we should do as a church in the coming year. We are small but God does some very amazing things with the least and the weak. Through Jesus Christ we are more than we can ever imagine.
How do we know what God would have us do? How are we to know what God is inviting us to join him doing in mission? Our brothers and sisters in the Quaker church use a process called discernment to learn what God is doing or what he would have them do? Discerning what God is speaking to us and understanding what he is calling us to do and be is not something that happens quickly. It involves reading the Word, study, reflection, and prayer. Part of the process is bringing it to the leadership of the church and then waiting for their decision. Sometimes ideas aren't accepted the first time and so there is more reading of God's Word, study, reflection, and prayer. This takes place on both sides of issues. Not only do the people presenting ideas for change read, study, reflect, and pray but so do the elders who serve on the session.
Through this process we learn that it's not about what we desire but what God wants from us. It's all part of God's great plan for his church. We are called to make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Trinity. If we keep in mind what God has planned for his church then we can't fail. It's all about God and not us.
The last two Sunday's we have heard that God is calling us and Jesus is saying, “Come with me.” God wants us to follow his lead and join him in making things better in the world for those who are oppressed by the world. Through the power of God's Holy Spirit we are able to experience the joy of being in God's presence and doing his work here on earth.
Come and join us as we work together to bring justice, peace, and mercy to all God's people.
God's peace be with you all,
Pastor David
Choir News
Choir will practice on Feb. 2nd and sing on Feb. 6th. After many, many years of faithful service Darlene Stuart is stepping down as choir director. Darren Tooley is going to take over the leadership of this important part of our church service. We wish Darren much success in this new endeavor and sincerely thank Darlene for her years of service.
Lenten Services
Our Ash Wednesday Services will be at Peace UCC at 6:00 PM. on March 9th. We will be participating with Peace United in Walnut, Trinity Lutheran, St. Mary’s and United Church of Avoca in hosting Wednesday evening Lenten worship and a meal. These services begin at 6 PM. Mark your calendars. The first Wednesday service with the Avoca Churches will be March 16th at the United Church in Avoca. The services will be as follows:
3/16 – United Church of Avoca
3/23 – St. Mary’s in Avoca
3/30 – Peace UCC in Walnut
4/6 – Trinity Lutheran in Avoca
4/13 – First Presbyterian in Walnut
We will not be having Sunday evening services this year.
Church Humor
A Sunday school teacher said to her children, “We have been learning how powerful kings and queens were in Bible Times. But, there is a Higher Power. Can anybody tell me what it is?” One child blurted out, “Aces!”
Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women will meet at the church at 1:30 on Feb. 2nd.
March 13th Daylight Savings Time – Spring Forward!
Thank-you
Thank-you to anyone that gave miscellaneous paper gifts to the church.
Thank-you to Jon Mitchell for driving his bus for the carolers in December.
Thank-you to Gloria Myers for putting up and taking down the Christmas decorations.
Thank-you to the Presbyterian Women for our Lenten meal.
Thank-you to Mary Ellen and Linda Woltmann (and everyone else that helped) in preparing the meat for our Annual Meeting.
March Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Brett & Bonnie Holtz, David & Mary Woltmann – Communion Servers;
Jim McDermott-chm, David Woltmann, Mary Ellen Woltmann, Teri Abel
April Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Vincent & Phyllis Hansen, Linda Krueger Communion Servers;
Robin Tooley-chm., Margo Matthies, Gloria Myers, Linda Krueger
Per Capita – If you still haven’t paid it, it is $29.95.
Flowers for February
February 6---------- Michelle Mertz
February 13-------- Kathy Hansen
February 20-------- Alice Richter
February 27-------- Pam Nielsen
March 6--------------Linda Sieck
Flowers for March
March 6---------------Linda Sieck
March 13-------------Gloria Myers
March 20-------------Gloria Myers (for Tina Gregory)
March 27-------------Darla Ehlers
You may only be one person in the world,
But you may be the world to one person.
Youth News
Jim McDermott has a fishing trip to Minnesota lined up for the last week of July.
Robin Tooley, Jim and Bobbie McDermott, Linda Ploen and Pastor David are hosting a
spaghetti supper for the 7th-12th grade youth on January 30th. Their DVD Bible study will
follow.
Session Minutes
Special Session Minutes
The session of the First Presbyterian Church met in special session after church services on Sunday, December 26th, 2010. Present were Jim and Bobbie McDermott, Robin Tooley, Jim Tooley, Linda Krueger and Linda Ploen. Absent were Bonnie Holtz, Margo Matthies, and Dennis Jensen. It was moved and 2nd to approve the membership of Brinda Shirley on Sunday, January 9, 2011. Motion carried. It was also moved and 2nd to allow Pastor David to perform the wedding of Ron Hamilton and Rachael Beccera on January 15, 2011. Motion carried. Also discussed was the cost of the new sound system. It was suggested that we take $500 out of the youth fund to help with the cost. It was also mentioned that we pay $10,000 now and the rest later. Meeting closed with prayer.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Session Minutes
January 18, 2011
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on January 18th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex. Those in attendance were: Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Margo Matthies, Jim Tooley and Linda Krueger. Absent were: Bobbie McDermott, Bonnie Holtz and Val Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Hebrews 13:10-16. He also gave a reflection entitled “A Purpose Larger Than Ourselves”.
The minutes for the December 14th meeting and December 26th special meeting were read. It was mentioned that the amount paid to Midwest Lighting was $10,500 instead of $10,000 as reported in the December 26th minutes. The minutes were approved as revised.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as given.
The pastor’s report was given and approved. Pastor David traveled 272 miles this month. There were many visitations, gift deliveries, toys to Open Door Mission and the funeral for Bobbie Voggesser. Pastor David asked that someone open the church and do bulletins while he is on vacation. Jim McDermott will open the church and Robin will do bulletins.
There was no clerk’s report.
It was moved and 2nd to receive Brinda Shirley as a new member by reaffirmation of faith. Motion carried.
Stewardship and Mission
Linda Krueger reported that the One Great Hour of Sharing material is in. The offering will be received on Palm Sunday. She also stated that the issues of the February and March Gleaners will be combined since she will be on vacation.
Christian Education
Gloria Myers reported that she had received confirmation from Karley Helms that she was enrolled in her 2nd semester of college. It was moved and 2nd to approve the scholarship money for her. Motion carried.
Youth group has been rescheduled for Sunday, January 30th at 5:00 with a spaghetti supper. Jim M. stated that the boys will be going fishing the last week of July.
We also gave Robin permission to use the church for lock-ins for the younger Sunday School kids and one for the youth.
Worship
Communion was served to 10 residents at Peace Haven on January 2nd. Linda Ploen was the serving elder. Ash Wednesday is March 9th. Services will be at either our church or the Peace Church. Community Lenten services will be on Wednesday evenings at 6:00 with a meal and worship service. The schedule for services is as follows: 3/16-United Church of Avoca, 3/23-St. Mary’s, 3/30-Peace UCC, 4/6-Trinity Lutheran, and 4/13-First Presbyterian.
Finance and Property
There was a report on the new sound system from Midwest Lighting and Sound. They could possibly start installation by the end of January. They discussed placement of things. A motion was approved to upgrade on the new projector. It was also mentioned that we need a committee to decide how to get started with graphics for the sound and lighting.
Our 2011 Biennial Corporation Report is due. Jim Tooley and Pastor David will take care of this.
Jim Tooley also brought up our Putnam and Wells Fargo accounts. Because of an error in the mailing addresses, we are not receiving dividend checks. It was voted to take the money out of these accounts and place the money from them (minus some operating money) into our Edward Jones account. We may have to contact a lawyer to get this taken care of.
New Business
It was announced that Darren Tooley will now be in charge of choir. Thanks was given to Darlene Stuart for her many years of service.
The Community Assistance Program meeting will be February 23rd at 7 p.m. at United Church of Avoca.
Our nominating committee of Jim McDermott, Greg Mertz and Chuck Ploen need to find a replacement for the retiring elder and contact everyone filling a volunteer position to see if they will continue.
It was also mentioned that perhaps we could start hosting a “Men’s Breakfast” once a month. Everyone would be welcome and any extra money would go towards the boy’s fishing trip.
The meeting was closed with prayer.
There will be no February meeting since David will be gone. Our next meeting will be March 8, 2011 at 7 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Friday, December 24, 2010
January 2011 Gleaner
Pastor’s Notes
Another year is coming to a close. As I look back over the last year I am filled with wonder at what God accomplishes working through us. Our Food Pantry in Avoca is able to serve the people in the surrounding communities without having to draw from the Omaha Food Bank very much. There are many “angels” in our community who keep putting bags of groceries in the basket at the back of the church for me to deliver to Roberta at the Food Pantry. Because of what you do people who are our neighbors are able to eat a nutritious meal without worrying where the next bite is going to come from.
As you’ll read in this newsletter every angel was taken from the Angel Tree in the library and families who are struggling financially were able to put gifts under their Christmas tree. It’s all worth it when you see the joy on their faces as they pick up the wrapped presents. Many cannot believe that there are people willing to do this for them.
This year United Church of Avoca and First Presbyterian of Walnut are working together to provide confirmation classes for 12 students, 4 from First Pres and 8 from UCA. And let me tell you it is a real blessing to be with these young people.
Again this year we were blessed with a wonderful Sunday School Christmas program. I don’t know how Robin, Cathy, and Bonnie do it but it all comes together and it is a joy to behold. A lot of the thanks goes to the parents who see that their children are there for Sunday School every Sunday. It’s so great to hear the sounds of children’s voices as they come to church and Sunday school. God has blessed us with these young ones. It’s also an awesome responsibility for those who provide for their Christian Education.
I just happened to mention one Sunday about Castelar Presbyterian Church needing hats, mittens, and scarves and before the day was over I had already received a bag full of winter wear. Then another bag showed up and then Walmart called and donated a $50 gift card. Rev. Lyle Franzen was very pleased to receive these gifts.
A few folks have taken the responsibility of hosting a monthly youth night at our church. We are doing a study by Max Lucado called “Made to Make a Difference.” Of course we are providing good food and games along with the study. There were 14 at the first month’s gathering and 10 went bowling with us in December. Keep these folks and the youth in your prayers.
These are just a few of the things God been doing using the hands and feet of the people in this church. Friends, he isn’t done yet so I hope you are prepared for what he has planned for this year. Just as no one knows when the Lord will return none of us really knows what God may ask us to do for him this year.
So, please pray for God’s church and if He reveals a mission task to you let us know how we might join you in His work. Friends, keep praying for God’s grace and guidance as we seek to do his bidding.
Merry Christmas and blessings for a Happy New Year,
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
Again I say WOW! WOW! WOW! What a wonderful program the children (and adults) put on for us. Robin Tooley and Cathy Shutters did a marvelous job (along with help from Bonnie Holtz and Jim McDermott). It’s always amazing to me how chaotic practice is and Robin somehow pulls it all together for the performance.
POINSETTIAS
Poinsettias given to the church to beautify the sanctuary this Christmas Season:
DONOR IN MEMORY OF
Steve and Marie Livengood – two plants --- John and Twyla Bero
Jim Tooley Jan Tooley
Betty, Steve & Michelle Sunderman Darrell & Sam Sunderman
Joe & Dorothy Beckendorf
Ross & Jean Bornholdt Laurie Bornholdt
Maxine Nash Ryan Nash
Jean Schmitt Herb & Marie Mertz
Presbyterian Women – three plants------------Church family & friends
Chuck & Linda Ploen Margie Ploen & Melissa Manhart
Barb Eslick Bill Eslick
Margo Matthies Bill Sievers
David & Linda Krueger David's parents, Linda's dad
Leo Rechtenbach Jeannette Rechtenbach
Basket of greenery on piano given by Gloria Myers, Ed & Katie Myers, Tina, Ross & Xavier Gregory in memory of Jean & Louis Myers
Golden Oldies
Every third Tuesday of the month, at 11:30 AM, a group of seniors meet for food and fellowship at a church in Avoca or Walnut. The cost of the meal is $3 and you must call in your reservation to the church on the Monday before so that there is enough food.
January – St. Mary's, Avoca
February – Peace UCC, Walnut
Lights, Electricity
If you are in the church for any reason PLEASE turn off the lights and check the thermostat before you leave. There have been several times already this winter when the
heat has been turned up and the lights left on all night. It’s not the janitor (she’s very good about checking things before she leaves).
GOOD GUYS FOOD BASKETS
Needy people in our community could sign up for a box of food from the Good Guys.
On December 18th Pastor David packed up the boxes in Avoca and brought them to our church in Walnut where the recipients picked them up.
“Mission work can be done anywhere.”
Thank-you
Big, big thank-you to Robin Tooley, Cathy Shutters and Connie Jensen for all their work with the Sunday School Christmas program.
Thank-you to Linda Ploen for bagging all the fruit and candy for the children and Linda Krueger for bagging the goodies for our shut-ins.
Thank-you to Denny and Connie Jensen for putting up the outside Nativity Scene.
Thank-you to all the families that helped light the advent wreath this year.
Thank-you to Linda Ploen for the decorations in our flower urns outside.
Thank-you to Jean Bornholdt for the two wreaths she made for our outside doors.
Thank-you to Brinda Shirley for all she does for our church as our janitor. We have had quite a few funerals this year and that always means extra work for her.
Pastor David and Linda Krueger would like to thank everyone for the Christmas cards and gifts they received. We have much to be thankful for.
Walnut’s Angel Tree
Big, big thanks to Margo Matthies and Linda Ploen. They volunteered to be in charge of the “Angel Tree” this year, which provides gifts to needy people in our community. There were 70 “angels” on the tree this year and people from our little town provided gifts for them.
Margo and Linda wrapped them all (with help from Michelle & Kaitlyn Tooley and Sarah Ehlers).
“Mission work can be done anywhere.”
Per Capita
Every Presbyterian church is required to send a per capita payment to the Missouri
River Valley Presbytery. This is based on the membership of the church. Our per capita apportionment for this year is $29.95 per member. We are asking each member to pay their own per capita beyond what you have pledged if you are able. Whatever you give helps our church stay within the budget.
February Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Charles & Gloria Walter, Greg & Michelle Mertz
Communion Servers: Bonnie Holtz-chm., Greg Mertz, Michelle Mertz, Charles Walter
Flowers for January
January 9--------JoJane Walter
January 16-------Margo Matthies
January 23-------Willa Petersen
January 30-------Linda Krueger
Gifts for the Church
Annual Meeting
The annual Congregational Church Meeting will be January 23rd.. Sunday
School will be at 9:15, Church at 10:30, lunch and then the meeting. As in past
years this is the time for us to bring gifts to the church; gifts like paper items
(paper towels, etc), office supplies, and janitorial supplies. These gifts can be brought
to the church anytime.
Meat will be provided at our lunch, please bring a covered dish or dessert.
PLEASE HAVE YOUR ANNUAL REPORTS IN BY JAN 9th FOR PRINTING.
Session Minutes
December 14, 2010
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on December 14th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex. Those in attendance were: Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Margo Matthies and Linda Krueger. Absent were: Bobbie McDermott, Bonnie Holtz, Jim Tooley and Val Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer, scripture from Matthew 1:18-25 and a reflection entitled “Angels Still Appear” from “Advent’s Alleluia to Easter’s Morning Light” by Ann Weems.
The minutes of the November 9th meeting were read and approved.
The treasurer’s report was given and approved.
The pastor’s report was read and approved. Pastor David traveled 448 miles this month, and conducted worship at Allen House, Peace Haven, Avoca Nursing and rehab and Salem Lutheran Home. It was moved and 2nd to allow David to take his 3 weeks of vacation that he didn’t take in 2010. He will be on vacation from February 2-27. He will also be attending Winter Pastor’s School in Hastings, Nebraska from January 31-February 3, 2011. Motion carried.
For the Clerk’s report, Linda Ploen read several letters from the Presbytery and also one on our 2011 per capita. John and Jill Woltmann have requested a membership transfer to New Horizon Presbyterian church in Council Bluffs. It was moved and 2nd to allow this. On November 14, 2010 David performed the baptism of Blake Allyson Wood, daughter of Shannon and Jason Wood. Blake was born on January 29, 2010.
Stewardship and Mission
We received a mission challenge letter from Andy Cook of Presbyter challenging us to increase our mission pledge by at least ½ of one percent.
Christian Education
Robin reported that we will be going Christmas caroling on December 19th at 6:00 for anyone wanting to go. David reported that confirmation is going well and the retreat at Camp Calvin Crest was great. We have four young people from our church attending classes. Our next youth night is scheduled for Sunday, January 9th at 5:00 followed by a spaghetti supper. We received an invitation for lunch for Christian Ed. on January 8th at Church of the Master. It was also moved and 2nd to renew our subscription to the Thoughtful Christian for $100. Motion carried.
Worship
Christmas Eve service will be December 24th at 10 p.m. Communion was served to ten residents at Peace Haven on December 5th. Linda Krueger was the serving elder.
Finance and Property
We reviewed and set the 2011 budget. It was moved and 2nd to accept the proposed budget. We were able to stay under the 2010 budget. The carpet cleaning was completed. The leaky faucet in the kitchen was repaired by Steve Griffin and Allan Sievers came and checked out some of our light problems. The Presbytery has set our per capita for 2011 at $29.95 per person. It was also moved and 2nd to approve the revised bid from Midwest Lighting and Sound for the new video and sound equipment. Motion carried.
New Business
The congregational meeting will be Sunday January 23rd. The nominating committee of Jim McDermott, Chuck Ploen and Greg Mertz need to find replacements for the retiring elders and also contact those currently filling volunteer positions.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be January 11th at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Another year is coming to a close. As I look back over the last year I am filled with wonder at what God accomplishes working through us. Our Food Pantry in Avoca is able to serve the people in the surrounding communities without having to draw from the Omaha Food Bank very much. There are many “angels” in our community who keep putting bags of groceries in the basket at the back of the church for me to deliver to Roberta at the Food Pantry. Because of what you do people who are our neighbors are able to eat a nutritious meal without worrying where the next bite is going to come from.
As you’ll read in this newsletter every angel was taken from the Angel Tree in the library and families who are struggling financially were able to put gifts under their Christmas tree. It’s all worth it when you see the joy on their faces as they pick up the wrapped presents. Many cannot believe that there are people willing to do this for them.
This year United Church of Avoca and First Presbyterian of Walnut are working together to provide confirmation classes for 12 students, 4 from First Pres and 8 from UCA. And let me tell you it is a real blessing to be with these young people.
Again this year we were blessed with a wonderful Sunday School Christmas program. I don’t know how Robin, Cathy, and Bonnie do it but it all comes together and it is a joy to behold. A lot of the thanks goes to the parents who see that their children are there for Sunday School every Sunday. It’s so great to hear the sounds of children’s voices as they come to church and Sunday school. God has blessed us with these young ones. It’s also an awesome responsibility for those who provide for their Christian Education.
I just happened to mention one Sunday about Castelar Presbyterian Church needing hats, mittens, and scarves and before the day was over I had already received a bag full of winter wear. Then another bag showed up and then Walmart called and donated a $50 gift card. Rev. Lyle Franzen was very pleased to receive these gifts.
A few folks have taken the responsibility of hosting a monthly youth night at our church. We are doing a study by Max Lucado called “Made to Make a Difference.” Of course we are providing good food and games along with the study. There were 14 at the first month’s gathering and 10 went bowling with us in December. Keep these folks and the youth in your prayers.
These are just a few of the things God been doing using the hands and feet of the people in this church. Friends, he isn’t done yet so I hope you are prepared for what he has planned for this year. Just as no one knows when the Lord will return none of us really knows what God may ask us to do for him this year.
So, please pray for God’s church and if He reveals a mission task to you let us know how we might join you in His work. Friends, keep praying for God’s grace and guidance as we seek to do his bidding.
Merry Christmas and blessings for a Happy New Year,
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
Again I say WOW! WOW! WOW! What a wonderful program the children (and adults) put on for us. Robin Tooley and Cathy Shutters did a marvelous job (along with help from Bonnie Holtz and Jim McDermott). It’s always amazing to me how chaotic practice is and Robin somehow pulls it all together for the performance.
POINSETTIAS
Poinsettias given to the church to beautify the sanctuary this Christmas Season:
DONOR IN MEMORY OF
Steve and Marie Livengood – two plants --- John and Twyla Bero
Jim Tooley Jan Tooley
Betty, Steve & Michelle Sunderman Darrell & Sam Sunderman
Joe & Dorothy Beckendorf
Ross & Jean Bornholdt Laurie Bornholdt
Maxine Nash Ryan Nash
Jean Schmitt Herb & Marie Mertz
Presbyterian Women – three plants------------Church family & friends
Chuck & Linda Ploen Margie Ploen & Melissa Manhart
Barb Eslick Bill Eslick
Margo Matthies Bill Sievers
David & Linda Krueger David's parents, Linda's dad
Leo Rechtenbach Jeannette Rechtenbach
Basket of greenery on piano given by Gloria Myers, Ed & Katie Myers, Tina, Ross & Xavier Gregory in memory of Jean & Louis Myers
Golden Oldies
Every third Tuesday of the month, at 11:30 AM, a group of seniors meet for food and fellowship at a church in Avoca or Walnut. The cost of the meal is $3 and you must call in your reservation to the church on the Monday before so that there is enough food.
January – St. Mary's, Avoca
February – Peace UCC, Walnut
Lights, Electricity
If you are in the church for any reason PLEASE turn off the lights and check the thermostat before you leave. There have been several times already this winter when the
heat has been turned up and the lights left on all night. It’s not the janitor (she’s very good about checking things before she leaves).
GOOD GUYS FOOD BASKETS
Needy people in our community could sign up for a box of food from the Good Guys.
On December 18th Pastor David packed up the boxes in Avoca and brought them to our church in Walnut where the recipients picked them up.
“Mission work can be done anywhere.”
Thank-you
Big, big thank-you to Robin Tooley, Cathy Shutters and Connie Jensen for all their work with the Sunday School Christmas program.
Thank-you to Linda Ploen for bagging all the fruit and candy for the children and Linda Krueger for bagging the goodies for our shut-ins.
Thank-you to Denny and Connie Jensen for putting up the outside Nativity Scene.
Thank-you to all the families that helped light the advent wreath this year.
Thank-you to Linda Ploen for the decorations in our flower urns outside.
Thank-you to Jean Bornholdt for the two wreaths she made for our outside doors.
Thank-you to Brinda Shirley for all she does for our church as our janitor. We have had quite a few funerals this year and that always means extra work for her.
Pastor David and Linda Krueger would like to thank everyone for the Christmas cards and gifts they received. We have much to be thankful for.
Walnut’s Angel Tree
Big, big thanks to Margo Matthies and Linda Ploen. They volunteered to be in charge of the “Angel Tree” this year, which provides gifts to needy people in our community. There were 70 “angels” on the tree this year and people from our little town provided gifts for them.
Margo and Linda wrapped them all (with help from Michelle & Kaitlyn Tooley and Sarah Ehlers).
“Mission work can be done anywhere.”
Per Capita
Every Presbyterian church is required to send a per capita payment to the Missouri
River Valley Presbytery. This is based on the membership of the church. Our per capita apportionment for this year is $29.95 per member. We are asking each member to pay their own per capita beyond what you have pledged if you are able. Whatever you give helps our church stay within the budget.
February Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Charles & Gloria Walter, Greg & Michelle Mertz
Communion Servers: Bonnie Holtz-chm., Greg Mertz, Michelle Mertz, Charles Walter
Flowers for January
January 9--------JoJane Walter
January 16-------Margo Matthies
January 23-------Willa Petersen
January 30-------Linda Krueger
Gifts for the Church
Annual Meeting
The annual Congregational Church Meeting will be January 23rd.. Sunday
School will be at 9:15, Church at 10:30, lunch and then the meeting. As in past
years this is the time for us to bring gifts to the church; gifts like paper items
(paper towels, etc), office supplies, and janitorial supplies. These gifts can be brought
to the church anytime.
Meat will be provided at our lunch, please bring a covered dish or dessert.
PLEASE HAVE YOUR ANNUAL REPORTS IN BY JAN 9th FOR PRINTING.
Session Minutes
December 14, 2010
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on December 14th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex. Those in attendance were: Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Margo Matthies and Linda Krueger. Absent were: Bobbie McDermott, Bonnie Holtz, Jim Tooley and Val Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer, scripture from Matthew 1:18-25 and a reflection entitled “Angels Still Appear” from “Advent’s Alleluia to Easter’s Morning Light” by Ann Weems.
The minutes of the November 9th meeting were read and approved.
The treasurer’s report was given and approved.
The pastor’s report was read and approved. Pastor David traveled 448 miles this month, and conducted worship at Allen House, Peace Haven, Avoca Nursing and rehab and Salem Lutheran Home. It was moved and 2nd to allow David to take his 3 weeks of vacation that he didn’t take in 2010. He will be on vacation from February 2-27. He will also be attending Winter Pastor’s School in Hastings, Nebraska from January 31-February 3, 2011. Motion carried.
For the Clerk’s report, Linda Ploen read several letters from the Presbytery and also one on our 2011 per capita. John and Jill Woltmann have requested a membership transfer to New Horizon Presbyterian church in Council Bluffs. It was moved and 2nd to allow this. On November 14, 2010 David performed the baptism of Blake Allyson Wood, daughter of Shannon and Jason Wood. Blake was born on January 29, 2010.
Stewardship and Mission
We received a mission challenge letter from Andy Cook of Presbyter challenging us to increase our mission pledge by at least ½ of one percent.
Christian Education
Robin reported that we will be going Christmas caroling on December 19th at 6:00 for anyone wanting to go. David reported that confirmation is going well and the retreat at Camp Calvin Crest was great. We have four young people from our church attending classes. Our next youth night is scheduled for Sunday, January 9th at 5:00 followed by a spaghetti supper. We received an invitation for lunch for Christian Ed. on January 8th at Church of the Master. It was also moved and 2nd to renew our subscription to the Thoughtful Christian for $100. Motion carried.
Worship
Christmas Eve service will be December 24th at 10 p.m. Communion was served to ten residents at Peace Haven on December 5th. Linda Krueger was the serving elder.
Finance and Property
We reviewed and set the 2011 budget. It was moved and 2nd to accept the proposed budget. We were able to stay under the 2010 budget. The carpet cleaning was completed. The leaky faucet in the kitchen was repaired by Steve Griffin and Allan Sievers came and checked out some of our light problems. The Presbytery has set our per capita for 2011 at $29.95 per person. It was also moved and 2nd to approve the revised bid from Midwest Lighting and Sound for the new video and sound equipment. Motion carried.
New Business
The congregational meeting will be Sunday January 23rd. The nominating committee of Jim McDermott, Chuck Ploen and Greg Mertz need to find replacements for the retiring elders and also contact those currently filling volunteer positions.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be January 11th at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Saturday, December 4, 2010
December 2010 Gleaner
One more church year has ended and another is beginning. Don’t you kind of wonder what God has planned for us this year? Or are you thinking that, maybe, this year might be the year that Jesus returns? Either way we are waiting for what comes next.
This season of Advent 2010 we are again waiting, waiting for the birth of the Christ child and waiting for Jesus to return and push back the darkness of this world.
What do you do when you waiting? I know some of us just sit and wait. But there are a few of us who just can’t abide being idle so we plan for such things. Some people have books or magazines with them and they read while they wait. Others who are waiting for something or someone work while they’re waiting.
So, if we think about waiting for Christ to return or for God to reveal his plan to us in that context then we have three options. We can sit quietly waiting or we can pick up our Bibles, either our old well-worn, old faithful one or a new study Bible, and read God’s word for us, or we could be out working for the Lord, doing whatever he has called us to do, while we wait for his return. Or, I guess we have a 4th option, we do a little bit of each.
We could spend time in quiet meditation/contemplation and we could read a prescribed study and we could, also, go out and do the work God has called us to do.
As you wait for what God has planned this coming new year what are you going to do?
The question for all of us is, “What are we going to do with the time God has given us?” Well, good friends, I believe that God has granted us the grace of his good gifts so that we can help others to come to know the love of Jesus as we do.
In this Advent season as we wait may we be blessed with God’s grace so that we are able to share his love with friends, family, neighbors, and those we haven’t been privileged to meet yet.
May you be filled with the joy and peace of Jesus as you wait,
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
The annual Sunday School Christmas program will be December 19th during worship at 9:00 AM. The title of this year’s program is “Bethlehem – Nothing Ever Happens”. Come and enjoy watching our youth (and adults) perform and sing for us. They will also be performing at Allen House in Atlantic on Dec. 22nd at 7:00 PM.
Fall Party
Wednesday, Oct. 27th Robin Tooley and Jim McDermott hosted a Fall Party
for youth in 7th-12th grade. Fourteen young people attended along with Bobbi McDermott, Chuck & Linda Ploen and Pastor David. They started a Bluefish Bible Study, played games (pumpkin bowling!) and enjoyed good food. Their next meeting will be a bowling party on Wednesday, December 1st (meet at church at 6:45) in Harlan (Atlantic has league bowling on Wed.) along with the Bible Study.
This season of Advent 2010 we are again waiting, waiting for the birth of the Christ child and waiting for Jesus to return and push back the darkness of this world.
What do you do when you waiting? I know some of us just sit and wait. But there are a few of us who just can’t abide being idle so we plan for such things. Some people have books or magazines with them and they read while they wait. Others who are waiting for something or someone work while they’re waiting.
So, if we think about waiting for Christ to return or for God to reveal his plan to us in that context then we have three options. We can sit quietly waiting or we can pick up our Bibles, either our old well-worn, old faithful one or a new study Bible, and read God’s word for us, or we could be out working for the Lord, doing whatever he has called us to do, while we wait for his return. Or, I guess we have a 4th option, we do a little bit of each.
We could spend time in quiet meditation/contemplation and we could read a prescribed study and we could, also, go out and do the work God has called us to do.
As you wait for what God has planned this coming new year what are you going to do?
The question for all of us is, “What are we going to do with the time God has given us?” Well, good friends, I believe that God has granted us the grace of his good gifts so that we can help others to come to know the love of Jesus as we do.
In this Advent season as we wait may we be blessed with God’s grace so that we are able to share his love with friends, family, neighbors, and those we haven’t been privileged to meet yet.
May you be filled with the joy and peace of Jesus as you wait,
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
The annual Sunday School Christmas program will be December 19th during worship at 9:00 AM. The title of this year’s program is “Bethlehem – Nothing Ever Happens”. Come and enjoy watching our youth (and adults) perform and sing for us. They will also be performing at Allen House in Atlantic on Dec. 22nd at 7:00 PM.
Fall Party
Wednesday, Oct. 27th Robin Tooley and Jim McDermott hosted a Fall Party
for youth in 7th-12th grade. Fourteen young people attended along with Bobbi McDermott, Chuck & Linda Ploen and Pastor David. They started a Bluefish Bible Study, played games (pumpkin bowling!) and enjoyed good food. Their next meeting will be a bowling party on Wednesday, December 1st (meet at church at 6:45) in Harlan (Atlantic has league bowling on Wed.) along with the Bible Study.
Eli Holtz bobbing for apples in jell-o water at Fall Party. Also in picture: Ty Johnk, Michael Mertz, Robin Tooley and Tori Bruck.
I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men!
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
GOOD GUYS FOOD BASKETS
The Food Pantry needs names, addresses, phone #’s & number of people in the family by Dec. 6th for food boxes for people in need. The boxes will need to be picked up by the client on Dec. 18th between 9-10AM at our church. Help is always needed to fill the boxes. Meet at the United Church in Avoca at 7:30 AM on Dec. 18th if you can help.
Thank-you
Thank-you to EVERYONE for making the Fall Supper/Bazaar a success. Teri Abel was
the winner of the drawing for Dixie Schirm’s afghan.
Golden Oldies
The Golden Oldies will be meeting at 12:00 at Peace Haven for lunch. If you are planning on attending please call 784-3709 by Dec. 14th for reservations.
Baptism
On Sunday, Nov. 14th Pastor David baptized Blake Allison Wood, sister of Devin Wood, daughter of Jason and Shannon Wood, granddaughter of Dennis and Connie Jensen. Sponsors for Blake were Samantha and Jolene Jensen, daughters of Dustin and Cindy Jensen and Tory Bruck, daughter of Jay and Kami Bruck. Singing before the baptism were Cindy, Samantha and Jolene Jensen, Kami and Tory Bruck, Julie Nash and Pastor David Krueger.
Walnut’s Angel Tree
Friends, there is an Angel Tree located in the Walnut Public Library where you will find “Angels” decorating a Christmas tree. These “Angels” have gift suggestions written on them for special people in the community who will not be able to experience Christmas like the rest of us without the help of Walnut’s Angels. If you are able and would like to make someone else’s Christmas something special please stop in and pick and “Angel” from the Angel Tree and buy the gift noted on the “Angel.” Then return the numbered item with the “Angel” to the Walnut Communications office in Walnut by December 13th.
Thank you for thinking of others this Christmas season. May God bless you and yours as you have helped to bless others.
Margo Matthies & Linda Ploen
POINSETTIAS
Poinsettias will be placed in the sanctuary in memory of family and friends who have passed on. Please let me know who your poinsettia is in memory of.
January Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Dennis Jensen, Dustin Jensen, Allan & Diana Sievers Communion Servers: Dennis Jensen-chm., Allan Sievers, Linda Ploen, Linda Woltmann. December ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
The Simple Life
Customized for you whatever your needs
Inside/Outside
Cleaning, cooking, laundry, painting, organizing, errand running
Call Julie Peck 712-249-3461
References/Reasonable Rates
A lot of people like snow. I find It to be an unnecessary freezing Of water-Carl Reiner
January Flowers
January 2 ----- Jo Jane Walter
January 9 ----- Margo Matthies
Session Minutes
November 9, 2010
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on November 9, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex. Those in attendance were: Linda Ploen, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Bonnie Holtz, Linda Krueger, and Jim Tooley. Absent were: Jim and Bobbie McDermott, Val Sievers and Margo Matthies.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and a reflection on hope, based on scripture from Luke 20:27-33.
The minutes of the October 12th meeting were read and approved.
The treasurer’s report was given and approved.
The pastor’s report was read and approved. Pastor David traveled 92 miles this month. Communion was served to 9 residents at Peace Haven. David will be attending a Transformational coaching training at Calvin Crest on November 16-17 and he will be going with the confirmation classes from Walnut and Avoca on a retreat to Calvin Crest on November 12-13. There is a Presbytery meeting at Westminster in Clarinda on November 20th.
Linda Ploen reported that our church books were reviewed and they were OK. She also read a letter from the Presbytery asking that our elders try to attend more Presbytery meetings.
There were two deaths this month. Tom Fell on October 16th with burial at Layton Twp. Cemetery, and Jeanette Rechtenbach on October 19th. There was no interment at this time.
Stewardship and Mission
Pledge cards were dedicated on Sunday November 7th.
Christian Education
Confirmation will begin on Saturday, December 11 from 8-12 at our church. The class will go on a retreat to Calvin Crest on November 12 & 13. Robin reported that 30 children attended the Harvest party at church and 14 youth and 5 adults attended the youth group gathering. The youth group will be going bowling on December 1st in Harlan. We will meet at the church at 6:45. December 19th will be the Sunday School Christmas program during worship service. Robin will also take the program to Allen House in Atlantic on December 22nd.
Worship
Communion was served to 6 residents at Peace Haven on November 7th. Bobbie McDermott was the serving elder. David served communion to 40 residents at Salem Home in Elk Horn. Advent will begin on November 28th.
Finance and Property
We reviewed the report and quote from Midwest Lighting and Sound. We decided to have them come to explain the quote. David will check with the Neola church to see how much their system cost. Dennis will talk to someone about fixing the leaky faucet in the kitchen, and fixing the light in the round window and our sign out front. We also need to clean gutters and the sidewalk. Jim Tooley reported that he had gotten quotes for cleaning our church carpets. It was moved and 2nd to accept the bid from “Classic Clark” from Atlantic.
New Business
We discussed Christmas gifts for church staff. It was approved to give cash gifts to Sunday School teachers and helpers, Sunday School Superintendent, Janitor, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, and clerk of session, our pianist and choir director, and Pastor David. Linda Ploen will get the candy for the children at church on December 19th. David and Linda will get for our senior members. Perhaps the youth group could put these together and deliver them if we can go Christmas caroling. Next on the agenda was the budget for 2011. We discussed increasing our mission giving. We will review the budget next month.
The meeting was closed with prayer.
Next meeting will be December 14th, 2010 at 7:00.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
November 2010 Gleaner
Pastor’s Notes
Last night I arrived back home, after being away at Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage for 5 days. I came back renewed and literally filled to overflowing with the God’s Spirit and his love.
When I come back from Pilgrimage I find that it’s impossible for me not talk about it. We listen to 14 talks about God’s grace and how to live in God’s grace. Not all the talks are given by pastors so it isn’t like listening to a preacher talk all the time. Eight of the talks are given by lay people and six are given by pastors. It’s not preaching.
This was my 7th Pilgrimage and it was even better than the last one. I am constantly amazed at how God accomplishes things, how he works in and around us to achieve this plan he has for us and his world. It is his world since he created it.
People come as God’s guests, and most of them don’t know each other, and then they leave as members of a growing family. They become sisters and brothers. They leave knowing that God truly loves them.
Wouldn’t you like to have that feeling? Wouldn’t you like to go somewhere and come away knowing deep in your heart that you are loved, by God and everyone of your new sisters and brothers?
That’s one of the reasons I keep going back, to be filled up again with God’s love. The other reason is so that I can serve God by serving others. You see every team member is working the whole weekend to make this the best experience these guests have ever had. And we get by on not much sleep. But it’s worth it.
Do you feel God’s love for you? Do wake up every day knowing that you are loved? Do you share that love with those you meet as you go through your day?
In the gospel of John chapter 15 Jesus talks about a vineyard in which his Father is the Farmer taking care of the vineyard. Jesus is the Vine and everyone who is touched by his Spirit is the branches. The branches are fed by the Vine. They are all cared for and tended by the Farmer, God.
Friends, we are all branches. We are connected to the Vine and nourished by the Vine. And sometimes the Farmer comes in and prunes off some of the dead branches that aren’t producing. It sounds harsh but it helps to get the dead branches out so more of the Light can shine through and the vines can produce a better crop.
Pilgrimage feeds this branch and it can feed yours. Talk to me if you would like to have your spirit renewed and your faith strengthened and get just a little closer to God.
God loves you my friends and so do I, Pastor David
In Memoriam
Tom Fell
March 21, 1921 – October 16, 2010
Tommy Newell Fell, son of Thomas and Bernice (Sewell) Fell, was born on March 21, 1921 at Emmetsburg, Iowa. He attended grade school in Emmetsburg and after his family moved to Walnut Tommy completed his education and graduated with the class of 1941.
After high school, Tommy enlisted into the U. S. Marines in Texas and then was transferred to the Merchant Marines in California where he served his country during World War II. On October 17, 1944, while on leave in Kansas City, Missouri, Tommy was united in marriage to Velma McDermott of Walnut, Iowa. To this union, four children were born: Jane, Jeff, Bill and Brett. After their marriage, Tommy continued his service for the Merchant Marines where after his discharge, he returned to Walnut and worked for the Northern Natural Gas Company. He went on to start a trucking and corn shelling business helping local farmers transporting livestock. He later expanded his trucking service to making longer trips to the east coast. He worked in Walnut for a Chevy car dealer as mechanic and when he discontinued trucking for a few years, he began driving school bus. At that time he also drove his portable grinder, used for grinding livestock feed for harmers. Tommy then drove three different cream and egg routes where he made trips throughout Shelby, eastern Audubon and eastern Pottawattamie counties.
Tommy returned to trucking this time hauling hanging/swinging hogs to California and returning to the Midwest with fresh produce. He drove for Ernie Hogeland for a few years then purchased Ernie’s freight company and operated it out of Walnut until his retirement in 1983. In the early 80’s, Tommy and Velma began spending winters in Texas where they met numerous couples and became longtime close friends. Tommy and Velma loved dancing and won several awards while dancing the waltz.
In 2003, Tommy became a resident of the Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn until July of 2004 when he moved to the Little Flower Haven Nursing Home in Earling, Iowa. It was here that he died having attained the age of eighty-nine years, six months and twenty-five days. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Shari Fell, his brothers and sister: Clarence, Avery, George, Wilbur, Phil, Harold and Beverly Kiesel and his son-in-law Dale Dyson.
He is survived by his wife, Velma Fell of Walnut; his children: Jane Dyson of Carson; Jeff Fell and his wife Peggy of Walnut; Bill Fell and his wife Laurie of Avoca, Iowa and Brett Fell of Simla, Colorado; ten grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends
In Memoriam
Jeanette Joy Rechtenbach
February 25, 1935 – October 19, 2010
Jeanette Joy Rechtenbach was born on February 25, 1935 to James Donald and Annabell (Sturdy) Wight at their home in Adair County. She had two sisters Susan and Patsy, and one brother William Donald Wight. She attended country school at Prussa No. 7 and graduated from Greenfield High School with the class of 1953.
Jeanette had various jobs including secretarial, newspaper, and in an antique shop. She belonged to the Federated Women’s Club, the Presbyterian Church, and Eastern Star, for over 40 years she was a member of the Birthday Club and a card club.
On November 8, 1959 Jeanette was married to Leo Rechtenbach at the Presbyterian Church in Greenfield, Iowa
Jeanette was an artist. She enjoyed painting pictures, knitting and photography. She enjoyed reading books and magazines and watching her favorite television shows. She traveled on many trips, raised chickens, and rode horses. She ran a bed and breakfast for 7 years. However, she still made time to raise her children: Bobbie, Scott, Marc, and Eric. Jeanette also loved her dogs and cats, feeding the birds, and taking time to enjoy her flowers.
Jeanette died on October 19, 2010 having attained the age of seventy-five years, seven months, and twenty-four days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her baby daughter Earnest Ellen, her brother William, and brothers-in-law Paul Robison and David Darling.
She is survived by her husband Leo from Walnut, daughter Bobbie McDermott and husband Jim of Walnut, son Scott Rechtenbach of Hemingford, NE, son Marc Rechtenbach of Shelby, son Eric Rechtenbach and his wife Tamara of Dubuque, IA. Four grandchildren: Megan Andersen and her husband Brian of Omaha, NE, Nellie Popp and her husband Brian of Omaha, NE, Anna Rechtenbach of Dubuque, IA, Arron Rechtenbach of NE, and great-granddaughter Nora Andersen of Omaha: sisters Susan Robison of Kansas City, MO, and Patsy Mattas and her husband Bill of Des Moines, IA; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, other family members and many dear friends.
Fall supper work schedule is included in this Gleaner. Please check to see your duties. The supper is Nov. 17th.
Mary Ellen will be picking up the turkeys for the annual dinner on November 13, 2010. They will in the church freezer. You can pick them up after church on Sunday or if you need them delivered please let me know.
This year the turkeys weigh between 16-18 pounds. Please thaw them before roasting and then cook them in a cooking bag. Deliver them to the church on the day of supper (November 17) by 3:30 to 4.
Thanks for all your help. Any questions you can call Mary Ellen at 712-784-3677.
Last night I arrived back home, after being away at Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage for 5 days. I came back renewed and literally filled to overflowing with the God’s Spirit and his love.
When I come back from Pilgrimage I find that it’s impossible for me not talk about it. We listen to 14 talks about God’s grace and how to live in God’s grace. Not all the talks are given by pastors so it isn’t like listening to a preacher talk all the time. Eight of the talks are given by lay people and six are given by pastors. It’s not preaching.
This was my 7th Pilgrimage and it was even better than the last one. I am constantly amazed at how God accomplishes things, how he works in and around us to achieve this plan he has for us and his world. It is his world since he created it.
People come as God’s guests, and most of them don’t know each other, and then they leave as members of a growing family. They become sisters and brothers. They leave knowing that God truly loves them.
Wouldn’t you like to have that feeling? Wouldn’t you like to go somewhere and come away knowing deep in your heart that you are loved, by God and everyone of your new sisters and brothers?
That’s one of the reasons I keep going back, to be filled up again with God’s love. The other reason is so that I can serve God by serving others. You see every team member is working the whole weekend to make this the best experience these guests have ever had. And we get by on not much sleep. But it’s worth it.
Do you feel God’s love for you? Do wake up every day knowing that you are loved? Do you share that love with those you meet as you go through your day?
In the gospel of John chapter 15 Jesus talks about a vineyard in which his Father is the Farmer taking care of the vineyard. Jesus is the Vine and everyone who is touched by his Spirit is the branches. The branches are fed by the Vine. They are all cared for and tended by the Farmer, God.
Friends, we are all branches. We are connected to the Vine and nourished by the Vine. And sometimes the Farmer comes in and prunes off some of the dead branches that aren’t producing. It sounds harsh but it helps to get the dead branches out so more of the Light can shine through and the vines can produce a better crop.
Pilgrimage feeds this branch and it can feed yours. Talk to me if you would like to have your spirit renewed and your faith strengthened and get just a little closer to God.
God loves you my friends and so do I, Pastor David
In Memoriam
Tom Fell
March 21, 1921 – October 16, 2010
Tommy Newell Fell, son of Thomas and Bernice (Sewell) Fell, was born on March 21, 1921 at Emmetsburg, Iowa. He attended grade school in Emmetsburg and after his family moved to Walnut Tommy completed his education and graduated with the class of 1941.
After high school, Tommy enlisted into the U. S. Marines in Texas and then was transferred to the Merchant Marines in California where he served his country during World War II. On October 17, 1944, while on leave in Kansas City, Missouri, Tommy was united in marriage to Velma McDermott of Walnut, Iowa. To this union, four children were born: Jane, Jeff, Bill and Brett. After their marriage, Tommy continued his service for the Merchant Marines where after his discharge, he returned to Walnut and worked for the Northern Natural Gas Company. He went on to start a trucking and corn shelling business helping local farmers transporting livestock. He later expanded his trucking service to making longer trips to the east coast. He worked in Walnut for a Chevy car dealer as mechanic and when he discontinued trucking for a few years, he began driving school bus. At that time he also drove his portable grinder, used for grinding livestock feed for harmers. Tommy then drove three different cream and egg routes where he made trips throughout Shelby, eastern Audubon and eastern Pottawattamie counties.
Tommy returned to trucking this time hauling hanging/swinging hogs to California and returning to the Midwest with fresh produce. He drove for Ernie Hogeland for a few years then purchased Ernie’s freight company and operated it out of Walnut until his retirement in 1983. In the early 80’s, Tommy and Velma began spending winters in Texas where they met numerous couples and became longtime close friends. Tommy and Velma loved dancing and won several awards while dancing the waltz.
In 2003, Tommy became a resident of the Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn until July of 2004 when he moved to the Little Flower Haven Nursing Home in Earling, Iowa. It was here that he died having attained the age of eighty-nine years, six months and twenty-five days. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Shari Fell, his brothers and sister: Clarence, Avery, George, Wilbur, Phil, Harold and Beverly Kiesel and his son-in-law Dale Dyson.
He is survived by his wife, Velma Fell of Walnut; his children: Jane Dyson of Carson; Jeff Fell and his wife Peggy of Walnut; Bill Fell and his wife Laurie of Avoca, Iowa and Brett Fell of Simla, Colorado; ten grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends
In Memoriam
Jeanette Joy Rechtenbach
February 25, 1935 – October 19, 2010
Jeanette Joy Rechtenbach was born on February 25, 1935 to James Donald and Annabell (Sturdy) Wight at their home in Adair County. She had two sisters Susan and Patsy, and one brother William Donald Wight. She attended country school at Prussa No. 7 and graduated from Greenfield High School with the class of 1953.
Jeanette had various jobs including secretarial, newspaper, and in an antique shop. She belonged to the Federated Women’s Club, the Presbyterian Church, and Eastern Star, for over 40 years she was a member of the Birthday Club and a card club.
On November 8, 1959 Jeanette was married to Leo Rechtenbach at the Presbyterian Church in Greenfield, Iowa
Jeanette was an artist. She enjoyed painting pictures, knitting and photography. She enjoyed reading books and magazines and watching her favorite television shows. She traveled on many trips, raised chickens, and rode horses. She ran a bed and breakfast for 7 years. However, she still made time to raise her children: Bobbie, Scott, Marc, and Eric. Jeanette also loved her dogs and cats, feeding the birds, and taking time to enjoy her flowers.
Jeanette died on October 19, 2010 having attained the age of seventy-five years, seven months, and twenty-four days. She is preceded in death by her parents, her baby daughter Earnest Ellen, her brother William, and brothers-in-law Paul Robison and David Darling.
She is survived by her husband Leo from Walnut, daughter Bobbie McDermott and husband Jim of Walnut, son Scott Rechtenbach of Hemingford, NE, son Marc Rechtenbach of Shelby, son Eric Rechtenbach and his wife Tamara of Dubuque, IA. Four grandchildren: Megan Andersen and her husband Brian of Omaha, NE, Nellie Popp and her husband Brian of Omaha, NE, Anna Rechtenbach of Dubuque, IA, Arron Rechtenbach of NE, and great-granddaughter Nora Andersen of Omaha: sisters Susan Robison of Kansas City, MO, and Patsy Mattas and her husband Bill of Des Moines, IA; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, other family members and many dear friends.
Fall supper work schedule is included in this Gleaner. Please check to see your duties. The supper is Nov. 17th.
Mary Ellen will be picking up the turkeys for the annual dinner on November 13, 2010. They will in the church freezer. You can pick them up after church on Sunday or if you need them delivered please let me know.
This year the turkeys weigh between 16-18 pounds. Please thaw them before roasting and then cook them in a cooking bag. Deliver them to the church on the day of supper (November 17) by 3:30 to 4.
Thanks for all your help. Any questions you can call Mary Ellen at 712-784-3677.
Harvest Party
Robin Tooley hosted a Harvest party on October 24th. She had seven helpers and over thirty children attend. I wish you all could have seen the basement before the party. She had the tables full of so many fun activities that I know the children had a great time.
Stewardship Sunday
Stewardship Sunday is November 7th. Please bring your pledges to Church on or before that day.
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill
Thank-You
Special thanks go out in this November (Thanksgiving) Gleaner to all our Church volunteers:
Sunday School teachers Robyn Tooley, Cathy Shutters, Bonnie Holtz, & Teresa Griffith Helpers: Sarah Ehlers & Kaitlyn Tooley
Choir Director Darlene Stuart
Piano Player Connie Jensen
Clerk of Session Linda Ploen
UPW President Charlotte Shepherd
Church Treasurers Robyn Tooley and Connie Jensen
Session Members
Flower Contributors
All workers at the Church Bazaar and Supper
All workers at the Antique Walk Food Stand
Thank-you! Thank-you! Thank-you!
BACON
There is still quite a bit of bacon for sale, $2.00 a package. Please write bacon on your check so Connie can get it in the right account.
November Food Pantry
Items needed in November at the Food Pantry are: soup crackers, cookies, cereal (she has cheerios & corn flakes), oatmeal, Kleenex, and chili beans
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Bailey Nielsen for being inducted into Harlan School’s National Honor
Society.
December Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Ross & Jean Bornholdt, Craig & Linda Woltmann Communion Servers: Linda Krueger-chm, Jean Bornholdt, Jim McDermott, Craig Woltmann. November ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
November 7 –Linda Woltmann
November 14- Gloria Walter
November 21- Charlotte Shepherd
Angel Tree
Reminder: The Angel Tree will be up at the Walnut Library November 13th.
Gifts (with Angel attached) need to be turned in to Walnut Communications by Dec. 13th. Questions: contact Margo Matthies or Linda Ploen
Poinsettias For Sale
The Music Parents will again be selling poinsettias to raise money for the WCS music program. If you would like to order call Teri Harmon at school 784-3615, or contact Charlotte Shepherd. The deadline for ordering is November 7th.
Session Minutes
October 12, 2010
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on October 12, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the south Sunday School annex. Those in attendance were: Jim McDermott, Linda Ploen, Robin Tooley, Bonnie Holtz, Margo Matthies, Jim Tooley and Linda Krueger. Absent were: Bobbie McDermott, Val Sievers, and Dennis Jensen. Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and a scripture reading from 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 and one from Colossians.
Our reflection was about how we all need mentors, especially our youth.
The minutes of the September meeting and the special meeting on October 3ed were read and approved.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as given. David presented the Pastor’s report. He traveled 127 miles and had many member visits. He also reported that Shannon and Jason Wood have requested the baptism of their daughter Blake on November 14th. It was moved and 2nd to approve this. Motion carried.
Linda Ploen read a letter from Calvin Crest asking that we remember them in our 2011 budget.
David and Linda P. will also be taking our church books for review at new Horizon church on October 19th. There were no deaths or membership transfers.
Stewardship and Mission
Linda Krueger reported that the Stewardship envelopes have been sent out and are due on November 7th. She also reported on the Joy offering which goes to mission and retired pastors in need. It was moved and 2nd to accept this offering which will be received on December 19th. David also reported that a missionary from the Czech Republic will be available to speak to our congregation if we would be interested.
Christian Education
David Reported that the confirmation class had met with their parents in Avoca on September 26. The Sunday School Youth will sing in church on October 24th and then have a Fall Festival from 2-4 that day. We will be hosting a Bluefish youth Bible Study on Wednesday , October 27 at 6:30 p.m. for area youth.
Worship
Heather Ploen will serve as supply pastor on October 24th while Pastor David is at Pilgrimage. There were 9 residents served communion on October 3rd at Peace Haven. Linda Ploen was the serving elder. Communion was served to Leo and Jeanette Rechtenbach. Jim Tooley was the serving elder.
Finance and Property
A committee will be meeting with Midwest Lighting and Sound on October 13th to discuss our new sound and visual needs. It was also discussed that we need to have the basement carpet cleaned. Jim Tooley has looked into this and is waiting on return calls for bids. We will wait until after church dinner to do this. The Rolling Hills CD, that we previously had voted on, was discussed. After discussion we voted to put the entire amount of $26,837.83 into the general fund instead of just $10,000. This can be used for carpet cleaning and to help supplement the new sound equipment. It was also mentioned that we possibly paint the front of the sanctuary after the new equipment is installed.
New Business
It was brought up that we need a new trash box outside the back of the church. Jim Tooley said that Justen could make a new one.
The meeting was closed with prayer and the Lord’s prayer.
The next meeting will be November 9th at 7:00.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Saturday, September 25, 2010
October 2010 Gleaner
Pastor's Notes
I am going to try to talk about two different topics on this one page, one is the Peacemaking Offering that will be received October 3rd, World Communion Sunday, and the other is our giving to God’s church.
I am going to try to talk about two different topics on this one page, one is the Peacemaking Offering that will be received October 3rd, World Communion Sunday, and the other is our giving to God’s church.
Why does the church receive a peacemaking offering on World Communion Sunday? World Communion Sunday began in 1936 after some pastors got together to pray and ponder what it was that unified people from all parts of the world. The United States was experiencing the Great Depression and people were worried about the instability in Europe.
They realized that in the Lord’s Supper all people come together to remember and celebrate the power of unity in Christ at the Lord’s Table. All Christians, no matter what nationality, what denomination, or what ethnic background, were one in Christ.
In the 70’s following the Vietnam War people were concerned about peace. Again a group of pastor’s gathered; 31 presbyteries sent overtures to the General Assembly, and a task force was created to study and prepare a report on peacemaking.
In the 70’s following the Vietnam War people were concerned about peace. Again a group of pastor’s gathered; 31 presbyteries sent overtures to the General Assembly, and a task force was created to study and prepare a report on peacemaking.
This task force came to the conclusion that peacemaking was central to the gospel and mission of the church. In 1980 after receiving a recommendation from the task force and deliberating on their recommendation something that had never been proposed before was done, 25% of the offering was to stay with the congregation, 25% would be used in the synods and presbyteries, and 50% would go to the newly formed Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. And so 30 years later the PCUSA continues to work for peace and receive an offering to fund this work.
My prayer is that you will prayerfully consider giving to this offering October 3 on World communion Sunday.
In the September issue of Presbyterians Today there was an article written by Karl Travis titled “Why We Give.”
That’s a good question and as I read I thought about why I give and what motivates others to give. Some would say they give to support the operation of the church where they worship and others might say it is to support the mission of the church. Both are good answers. The author took the position that our giving is, or should be, one of the spiritual disciplines.
Now before you stop reading and convince yourself that giving to the church isn’t a spiritual discipline listen to this. Turn in your Bibles to Matthew 6. In the first couple verses it says, “Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them…So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do…” Jesus continues this, “And whenever you pray…and whenever you fast…” The author warns the reader not to think this is just happenstance. In verse 21 Jesus concludes with, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Karl Travis puts it this way, “Jesus says that if we want to trust that God will provide, we begin by trusting that God has already provided. Treasure first. Hearts follow. First we share, and in so doing we grow to care.”
Letters asking all of us for our pledges will be sent the first week of October. Please consider why you give and what it is that God is calling us to do as His church in Walnut.
The Presbyterians Today magazine will be lying on the table at the back of the sanctuary. I pray that you will pick it up and read the article on why we give before making your decision this year.
May God’s grace, joy, and peace be yours today and forever,
Pastor David
Thank-You
Thank-you to everyone who brought items for the Food Pantry. Items needed for October are: face soap, deodorant, paper products, canned peas, chili beans, canned tomatoes and canned fruit.
Missouri River Valley Fall Meeting (Pres. Women)
“God Will do Wonders-The Wonder of Hope”
October 23, 2010
United Church of Avoca
8:45 am Coffee & Registration
9:30 am Day Begins
May God’s grace, joy, and peace be yours today and forever,
Pastor David
Thank-You
Thank-you to everyone who brought items for the Food Pantry. Items needed for October are: face soap, deodorant, paper products, canned peas, chili beans, canned tomatoes and canned fruit.
Missouri River Valley Fall Meeting (Pres. Women)
“God Will do Wonders-The Wonder of Hope”
October 23, 2010
United Church of Avoca
8:45 am Coffee & Registration
9:30 am Day Begins
Along with the meeting, every women’s group is asked to bring items for a “Baby Shower” to help pregnant and new mothers that are in need. If you would like to contribute bring your item(s) to the church by October 17th.
Items needed:
Diapers – all sizes Baby Monitors
Thermometers Baby books
Orajel night lights
Vaporizers Pack-n-Play
Carbon Monoxide Detectors Crib bedding – sheets and
Smoke Alarms mattress pad
Outlet Covers washcloths
Security Gate
Car Seats – infant, convertible and High Back Boosters
CONGRATULATIONS
---- to Al and Dixie Schirm on the birth of their great-grandson Kooper Jordan Krummel. Kooper is the son on Jordan and Mindy Krummel, and the grandson on Neil and Pam Schirm and Mike and Lesley Krummel.
--- to Chuck and Linda Ploen on the birth of their grandson, Noah Bradley Ploen. Noah is the son of Jason and Heather Ploen.
CROP WALK
The annual Crop Walk was held at the Avoca Park on Sunday, Sept. 19th. Over twenty people participated and over $1,000 was donated. Thank-you to everyone that made a contribution.
ANGEL TREE
Registration forms will be available October 15th at school or city hall for anyone that needs help providing Christmas gifts for their family members. Those forms will be due Nov. 11th (can be turned in at city hall or the school). The trees will be up at the Walnut library on Nov. 13th. The gifts must be turned in to Walnut Communications by Dec. 13th at 4:30 pm so that they can be wrapped on Dec. 14th. They will be picked up on December 18th. Questions: contact Linda Ploen or Margo Matthies
Party - Party
The Sunday School is having a “Harvest Party” on October 24th from 2-4. All children from Pre-K – 6th grade are invited. Robyn Tooley and the Sunday School teachers are busy making plans for a fun time.
“Fall Gathering” - On October 27th the Jr. High – Senior High youth are having a pizza, pop, game night.
November Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Jim and Bobbi McDermott and Teri Abel & Shannon Griffith
Communion Servers: Bobbie McDermott-chm, Leo Rechtenbach, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd. October ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
October 3-------Mabel Stahl
October 10------ Jeanette Rechtenbach
October 17 ------Bobbie McDermott
October 24 ------Janet Grush
October 31-------Mary Ellen Woltmann
Presbyterian Women
On September 1st the Presbyterian Women toured the Eagle Monuments in Pottawattamie County. Towns visited were Minden, Neola, Underwood, Crescent, Carter Lake, Treynor, Carson, Oakland, and Hancock.
Lunch was enjoyed at “The Rose” in Treynor. Special thanks to our drivers Larry Shepherd and Robert Stuart.
The next meeting will be October 6th at 12:30. At 2:00 we will have “Guest Day”
with a program on “Floral Design”.
Walk of Honor Veterans’ Memorial Plaza Dedication
Walnut, Iowa
Mark your calendars for October 24th at 2:00 pm to attend the dedication ceremony for the new Veterans’ Memorial. It is located near the entrance to Veterans’ Memorial Park. The Monument has been built by the generous donations of the citizens of Walnut, the County Board of Supervisors and others that are thankful to those that have given us the ability to walk in freedom.
Session Minutes
September 14, 2010
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on September 14, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex. Those in attendance were Jim and Bobbie McDermott, Linda Ploen, Robin Tooley, Linda Krueger, Jim Tooley, Dennis Jensen and Margo Matthies. Absent were Bonnie Holtz and Val Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and an interactive scripture and reflection entitled “The Feather Script.”
The minutes of the August 10th meeting were read and approved.
The Treasurer’s report was given and approved. It was moved and 2nd to cash in a Rolling Hills CD for $26,000 due October 10th and put $10,000 in general savings for expenses and put $16,000 back into a CD. Motion carried.
The pastor’s report was reviewed. Pastor David traveled 210 miles and served communion to six. We will also need a pulpit supply for October 24th, as Pastor David will attend Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage.
There was no clerk’s report. There were no deaths or membership changes.
Stewardship and Mission
Linda Krueger reported that the pledge cards have been ordered and will be sent out the first part of October.
Linda Krueger reported that the pledge cards have been ordered and will be sent out the first part of October.
Christian Education
Robin reported that Sundae Sunday went well and 20 kids were in attendance for Sunday School.
Robin reported that Sundae Sunday went well and 20 kids were in attendance for Sunday School.
We approved a request to allow the Sunday School kids to have a Halloween party.
As per an O. K. from an elder, the Bluefish TV youth Bible Study was ordered and received.
David stated that there will be a joint confirmation meeting with parents in Avoca on September 26th. We have the possibility of four youth from our church attending.
David stated that there will be a joint confirmation meeting with parents in Avoca on September 26th. We have the possibility of four youth from our church attending.
Worship
A motion was made and 2nd to accept the Peacemaking offering on World Communion Sunday. Motion carried.
A motion was made and 2nd to accept the Peacemaking offering on World Communion Sunday. Motion carried.
Communion was served to 9 residents at Peace Haven on September 5th and to Leo and Jeanette Rechtenbach. Jim Tooley was the attending elder.
World Communion Sunday is October 3rd. There will be a celebration of Christ and our peace.
Advent begins on November 28th.
It was also announced that Darlene Stuart will be retiring as choir director, so there will be no weekly choir. (Perhaps the choir will sing once a month or on holidays.) It was also moved and 2nd to raise the pay for substitute musicians to $20. Motion carried.
Finance and Property
Robin will talk to Shannon Griffith to get his opinion and advice on new visual and audio equipment.
Robin will talk to Shannon Griffith to get his opinion and advice on new visual and audio equipment.
Jim Tooley reported that Benson Church has ten dark colored pews they want to get rid of. They are free if we come get them. No action taken.
Also discussed was updating the front of the sanctuary. No action taken.
Personnel
No action
Personnel
No action
New Business
David reported on the Presbytery meeting held on August 27 & 28. There were many interesting topics discussed including the Board of Pensions, a commissioned team to Nicaragua and the mission of Presbytery which was a challenge to all congregations to increase our mission giving by ½ of 1 percent. For us it would by an additional $150.
David reported on the Presbytery meeting held on August 27 & 28. There were many interesting topics discussed including the Board of Pensions, a commissioned team to Nicaragua and the mission of Presbytery which was a challenge to all congregations to increase our mission giving by ½ of 1 percent. For us it would by an additional $150.
The community emergency Response Team training scheduled for the last 2 weeks of October will not be attended by anyone in our congregation, but we will do some things for our own church like putting up signs for fire extinguishers, escape plans, etc.
The Stephen Ministry workshop at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Omaha will be October 2, 9-1 p.m.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
The next meeting will be October 12th at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen Clerk of Session
Monday, June 28, 2010
July/August 2010 Gleaner
Pastor’s Notes
Summer is here. How do I know that for sure? Well for one thing Vacation Bible School is over and the Amvets Annual Father’s Day Antique Walk was last weekend. For me that means it’s officially summer and its hot and humid outside.
Do you remember what it was like in the good old days before every house had air conditioning and quite a few people supported their families by working outdoors in the heat, the sun, and the rain, when it fell? Sometimes I find myself talking about the good old days but I forget that in the good old days we didn’t have some of the conveniences that we take for granted today.
In the winter I hear about those who don’t have homes trying to find shelter from the snow and the cold but in the summer we don’t hear so much about those without homes and shelter. But they are there. They are still living outdoors and have to put up with the extremes of nature. Just imagine what it must be like to be living outdoors with all the rain we’ve received this month. It can’t be very comfortable. Now, with everything soaking wet, the humidity is going to go up. It gets even worse for those living outside with minimal shelter.
My point is this, please don’t forget these folks. The Food Pantry still needs food because there still are folks who need help with groceries. The Open Door Mission still needs donations so they can feed those who are living on the streets of Omaha and Council Bluffs. The Good Guys still need donations because there are still people who are struggling to pay rent and their utilities. Nothing has changed just because its summer. Those who need our help are still here and they really need us.
Friends, our sisters and brothers need us and we need them. Jesus asked us not to forget those who were poor and homeless and without food or clothes. Today’s message from Galatians 5 reminded us that we are to love one another as we love ourselves. By contributing to these organizations or to God’s church in any way we can provides some relief for those who don’t have the luxuries we have and maybe they will experience the joy of being in God’s presence because of something we did.
May you be blessed with the grace and peace of God’s Spirit,
Pastor David
Thank-You
---to all who helped make Vacation Bible School such a success. We averaged 45
Children a day! Big thanks to Robin Tooley!! Also Deb Petersen, Sarah Kock, Margo Matthies, Pastor David, Pastor Gail, Charlotte Shepherd, Carole Schroder, Bonnie Holtz, Linda Ploen, Linda Krueger, Kaitlyn Tooley, Bailey Nielsen, and McKenna Martin for all their help.
---to EVERYONE who helped in any way at our FOOD STAND for the Antique Walk. Chairman Mary Ellen Woltmann works tirelessly for MANY days, Charlotte Shepherd organizes, purchases and delivers the supplies, Larry Shepherd takes charge of the setting up and tearing down of the stand. Also many thanks to the people that show up every day to help where needed—Barb Eslick, Don and JoJane Walter. It amazes me that the hardest workers are over 65? I don’t know how they do it year in and year out.
---to Dixie Schirm for knitting a beautiful prayer shawl. Pastor David delivered it to Jeanette Rechtenbach.
---to Chuck and Jason Ploen for installing/replacing the molding around the stained glass window and installing double pane glass over it—the window and the framing around it are beautiful. They also noticed that the window blocks under the Sunday
School annex were broken so they covered them with cement board.
Bible School 2010
CONGRATULATIONS
---to Jessica Ploen, daughter of Jack and Judy who received her Bachelor of Science degree on May 15 from Creighton University in Omaha. Jessica was a double major in sociology and philosophy. She was a member of the national honor society for sociology, Alpha Kappa Delta and the national honor society for philosophy, Phi Sigma Tau. Jessica graduated cum laude.
---to Robert Reid Matthies for being named to the dean’s list for the Spring 2010 semester at South Dakota State University.
August Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Kent & Carla Johnk, Jim & Bobbie McDermott Communion Servers:.Margo Matthies-chm., Brittni Johnk, Barb Eslick, Bobbie McDermott
September Ushers and Connunion Servers
Ushers: Al & Dixie Schirm, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd Communion Servers: Jim Tooley-chm., Linda Krueger, Vincent Hansen, Darlene Stuart
July Ushers and Communion Servers are on the July Calendar
The Death of “Someone Else”
I know that all of you were saddened to learn this week of the death of one of our church’s most valuable members---Someone Else. Someone’s passing created a vacancy that will
be difficult to fill. Someone Else has been with us for many years, and for every one of
those years, Someone Else did far more that the normal person’s share of the work.
Whenever leadership was mentioned, this wonderful person was looked to for inspiration
as well as results. Someone Else can work with that group. Whenever there was a job to
do, a class to teach, or a meeting to attend, one name was on everyone’s lips, “Let Someone
Else do it.” It was common knowledge that Someone Else was among the largest givers
in the church. Whenever there was a financial need, everyone just assumed that Someone
Else would make up the difference. Someone Else was a wonderful person, sometimes
appearing super-human, but a person can only do so much. Were the truth known, everyone
expected too much of Someone Else. Now Someone Else is gone. We wonder what we are
going to do. Someone Else left a wonderful example to follow, but who is going to follow
it? Who is going to do the things Someone Else did? Remember, we can’t depend on Someone
Else anymore.
Hospitalized—Betty Maassen fell and broke her leg. She is recuperating in Elkhorn, NE. Her address there is: Brookestone Meadows
600 Brookstone Meadows Plz
Elkhorn, NE 68002
Flowers for Pulpit
July 4 -------Betty Sunderman
July 11------Michelle Sunderman
July 18------Kami Bruck/Shannon Wood
July 25------Connie Jensen
Aug. 1-------Carolyn Johnk
Aug. 8--------Karla Helms
Aug. 15------Carla Johnk
Aug. 22------Terri Abel
Aug. 29------Jean Bornholdt
Upcoming Events
Presbytery hosting a family day at Rosenblatt Stadium on August 22nd
The Omaha Royals baseball game begins at 1:34 p.m. with clowns doing face painting and balloon art during the game, as well as a “fun area” for kids.
A block of 100 tickets has been purchased on the 3rd base line. If you and your family would like to attend you may pick up the tickets, $5 each, at the Presbytery office which is $2 off the regular price. Pastor David will pick up the tickets for you but you must have your money to him by July 13th.
Audio/Visual Committee-A committee is being formed to look in to updating, using the Memorial funds, our audio/visual equipment. If you would like to serve on this committee please see Dennis Jensen, Jim McDermott or Jim tooley. Memorial money has been received to us specifically for this.
No Gleaner in August—I’m having surgery on my rotator cuff again (the same shoulder) on July 15th so will be unable to get the August Gleaner out. I’ve included the September calendar, the September flower list and the September ushers and communion servers in this edition of the Gleaner. Linda Krueger
A Note from the United Church of Avoca
The United Church of Avoca will be renting their parsonage beginning August 1, 2010. The rent will be $800 a month. The renter will be responsible for the utilities - which run about $200 a month. The property committee of the church will take care of the lawn mowing and snow removal. Tenants will be non-smoking, and no pets will be allowed. First, last and deposit will be required. Please contact: Jim Sievers at Sievers Plumbing 343-2294.
Thanks
June 2010 Session Minutes
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on June 8, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex.
Those in attendance were Linda Ploen, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Bonnie Holtz, Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger, and Jim Tooley. Absent were Jim McDermott, Bobbie McDermott and Val Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Isaiah 58:6-11. The reflection was about Evangelism and Discipleship from the Presbyterians Today magazine.
The minutes of the May 11, 2010 were read and approved.
The treasurer’s report was approved as given.
The pastor’s report was read and approved. He traveled 77 miles this month. Nine people were served communion at Peace Haven.
We had a request to reinstate Betty League as a member of our church per Betty’s daughter. It was moved and 2nd to do so.
Stewardship & Mission
Linda Krueger reported correspondence about the Peacemaking offering. It was decided to table this until our next meeting.
Christian Education
Vacation Bible school was great and was well attended. A total of 49 children attended. A thanks was given to Robin and Margo for their hard work. The offering for the week was $262. This will be divided between “The Good Guys”, Food Pantry and “The Angel Tree”.
Worship
The alter cloth and flowers have been changed. David will be gone on July 25th, so we will need a supply pastor. David will also order a new daily devotional booklet entitled “Our Daily Bread”. It is free of charge and will be available to anyone.
Finance & Property
David reported that he had received word from Mary Ellen Woltmann about the Antique walk. Everything is ordered and ready to go. All prices will stay the same, but requested that the price of pie be raised to $2.00, ice to $2.00 and rolls to $1.25. It was ok’d to change these prices. It was also reported that we need to really watch and control the amount of meat we put on each bun. The price of pork is higher this year and we will lose money if we put too much meat on.
Linda Ploen reported that the new Bibles have been ordered, and the new round window is in and Chuck and Jason will replace it soon after the Walk.
David reported on the visual and audio equipment. Finance and property will put together a committee to get recommendations on what we need.
Margo and Linda Ploen also presented some ideas for landscaping around the church from “My Nest” green house. After some discussion it was decided to go with this plan, but just do along the south addition and around our sign at this time. We will decide on the other areas later. “My Nest” will give us a 15% discount on plants.
New Business
It was moved and 2nd to give Kaitlyn Tooley and Sarah Ehlers $100 each to go to church camp. Motion carried.
We also received a note from Lotus Paulsen from Avoca along with a monetary gift to defray the cost of the Gleaner.
A letter was also received from Family Crisis Center thanking us for the donation from Lenten services. It was also decided not to have a July meeting, as there is little business.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be August 10th at 7:00.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of session
Summer is here. How do I know that for sure? Well for one thing Vacation Bible School is over and the Amvets Annual Father’s Day Antique Walk was last weekend. For me that means it’s officially summer and its hot and humid outside.
Do you remember what it was like in the good old days before every house had air conditioning and quite a few people supported their families by working outdoors in the heat, the sun, and the rain, when it fell? Sometimes I find myself talking about the good old days but I forget that in the good old days we didn’t have some of the conveniences that we take for granted today.
In the winter I hear about those who don’t have homes trying to find shelter from the snow and the cold but in the summer we don’t hear so much about those without homes and shelter. But they are there. They are still living outdoors and have to put up with the extremes of nature. Just imagine what it must be like to be living outdoors with all the rain we’ve received this month. It can’t be very comfortable. Now, with everything soaking wet, the humidity is going to go up. It gets even worse for those living outside with minimal shelter.
My point is this, please don’t forget these folks. The Food Pantry still needs food because there still are folks who need help with groceries. The Open Door Mission still needs donations so they can feed those who are living on the streets of Omaha and Council Bluffs. The Good Guys still need donations because there are still people who are struggling to pay rent and their utilities. Nothing has changed just because its summer. Those who need our help are still here and they really need us.
Friends, our sisters and brothers need us and we need them. Jesus asked us not to forget those who were poor and homeless and without food or clothes. Today’s message from Galatians 5 reminded us that we are to love one another as we love ourselves. By contributing to these organizations or to God’s church in any way we can provides some relief for those who don’t have the luxuries we have and maybe they will experience the joy of being in God’s presence because of something we did.
May you be blessed with the grace and peace of God’s Spirit,
Pastor David
Thank-You
---to all who helped make Vacation Bible School such a success. We averaged 45
Children a day! Big thanks to Robin Tooley!! Also Deb Petersen, Sarah Kock, Margo Matthies, Pastor David, Pastor Gail, Charlotte Shepherd, Carole Schroder, Bonnie Holtz, Linda Ploen, Linda Krueger, Kaitlyn Tooley, Bailey Nielsen, and McKenna Martin for all their help.
---to EVERYONE who helped in any way at our FOOD STAND for the Antique Walk. Chairman Mary Ellen Woltmann works tirelessly for MANY days, Charlotte Shepherd organizes, purchases and delivers the supplies, Larry Shepherd takes charge of the setting up and tearing down of the stand. Also many thanks to the people that show up every day to help where needed—Barb Eslick, Don and JoJane Walter. It amazes me that the hardest workers are over 65? I don’t know how they do it year in and year out.
---to Dixie Schirm for knitting a beautiful prayer shawl. Pastor David delivered it to Jeanette Rechtenbach.
---to Chuck and Jason Ploen for installing/replacing the molding around the stained glass window and installing double pane glass over it—the window and the framing around it are beautiful. They also noticed that the window blocks under the Sunday
School annex were broken so they covered them with cement board.
Bible School 2010
CONGRATULATIONS
---to Jessica Ploen, daughter of Jack and Judy who received her Bachelor of Science degree on May 15 from Creighton University in Omaha. Jessica was a double major in sociology and philosophy. She was a member of the national honor society for sociology, Alpha Kappa Delta and the national honor society for philosophy, Phi Sigma Tau. Jessica graduated cum laude.
---to Robert Reid Matthies for being named to the dean’s list for the Spring 2010 semester at South Dakota State University.
August Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Kent & Carla Johnk, Jim & Bobbie McDermott Communion Servers:.Margo Matthies-chm., Brittni Johnk, Barb Eslick, Bobbie McDermott
September Ushers and Connunion Servers
Ushers: Al & Dixie Schirm, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd Communion Servers: Jim Tooley-chm., Linda Krueger, Vincent Hansen, Darlene Stuart
July Ushers and Communion Servers are on the July Calendar
The Death of “Someone Else”
I know that all of you were saddened to learn this week of the death of one of our church’s most valuable members---Someone Else. Someone’s passing created a vacancy that will
be difficult to fill. Someone Else has been with us for many years, and for every one of
those years, Someone Else did far more that the normal person’s share of the work.
Whenever leadership was mentioned, this wonderful person was looked to for inspiration
as well as results. Someone Else can work with that group. Whenever there was a job to
do, a class to teach, or a meeting to attend, one name was on everyone’s lips, “Let Someone
Else do it.” It was common knowledge that Someone Else was among the largest givers
in the church. Whenever there was a financial need, everyone just assumed that Someone
Else would make up the difference. Someone Else was a wonderful person, sometimes
appearing super-human, but a person can only do so much. Were the truth known, everyone
expected too much of Someone Else. Now Someone Else is gone. We wonder what we are
going to do. Someone Else left a wonderful example to follow, but who is going to follow
it? Who is going to do the things Someone Else did? Remember, we can’t depend on Someone
Else anymore.
Hospitalized—Betty Maassen fell and broke her leg. She is recuperating in Elkhorn, NE. Her address there is: Brookestone Meadows
600 Brookstone Meadows Plz
Elkhorn, NE 68002
Flowers for Pulpit
July 4 -------Betty Sunderman
July 11------Michelle Sunderman
July 18------Kami Bruck/Shannon Wood
July 25------Connie Jensen
Aug. 1-------Carolyn Johnk
Aug. 8--------Karla Helms
Aug. 15------Carla Johnk
Aug. 22------Terri Abel
Aug. 29------Jean Bornholdt
Upcoming Events
Presbytery hosting a family day at Rosenblatt Stadium on August 22nd
The Omaha Royals baseball game begins at 1:34 p.m. with clowns doing face painting and balloon art during the game, as well as a “fun area” for kids.
A block of 100 tickets has been purchased on the 3rd base line. If you and your family would like to attend you may pick up the tickets, $5 each, at the Presbytery office which is $2 off the regular price. Pastor David will pick up the tickets for you but you must have your money to him by July 13th.
Audio/Visual Committee-A committee is being formed to look in to updating, using the Memorial funds, our audio/visual equipment. If you would like to serve on this committee please see Dennis Jensen, Jim McDermott or Jim tooley. Memorial money has been received to us specifically for this.
No Gleaner in August—I’m having surgery on my rotator cuff again (the same shoulder) on July 15th so will be unable to get the August Gleaner out. I’ve included the September calendar, the September flower list and the September ushers and communion servers in this edition of the Gleaner. Linda Krueger
A Note from the United Church of Avoca
The United Church of Avoca will be renting their parsonage beginning August 1, 2010. The rent will be $800 a month. The renter will be responsible for the utilities - which run about $200 a month. The property committee of the church will take care of the lawn mowing and snow removal. Tenants will be non-smoking, and no pets will be allowed. First, last and deposit will be required. Please contact: Jim Sievers at Sievers Plumbing 343-2294.
Thanks
June 2010 Session Minutes
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on June 8, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex.
Those in attendance were Linda Ploen, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Bonnie Holtz, Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger, and Jim Tooley. Absent were Jim McDermott, Bobbie McDermott and Val Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Isaiah 58:6-11. The reflection was about Evangelism and Discipleship from the Presbyterians Today magazine.
The minutes of the May 11, 2010 were read and approved.
The treasurer’s report was approved as given.
The pastor’s report was read and approved. He traveled 77 miles this month. Nine people were served communion at Peace Haven.
We had a request to reinstate Betty League as a member of our church per Betty’s daughter. It was moved and 2nd to do so.
Stewardship & Mission
Linda Krueger reported correspondence about the Peacemaking offering. It was decided to table this until our next meeting.
Christian Education
Vacation Bible school was great and was well attended. A total of 49 children attended. A thanks was given to Robin and Margo for their hard work. The offering for the week was $262. This will be divided between “The Good Guys”, Food Pantry and “The Angel Tree”.
Worship
The alter cloth and flowers have been changed. David will be gone on July 25th, so we will need a supply pastor. David will also order a new daily devotional booklet entitled “Our Daily Bread”. It is free of charge and will be available to anyone.
Finance & Property
David reported that he had received word from Mary Ellen Woltmann about the Antique walk. Everything is ordered and ready to go. All prices will stay the same, but requested that the price of pie be raised to $2.00, ice to $2.00 and rolls to $1.25. It was ok’d to change these prices. It was also reported that we need to really watch and control the amount of meat we put on each bun. The price of pork is higher this year and we will lose money if we put too much meat on.
Linda Ploen reported that the new Bibles have been ordered, and the new round window is in and Chuck and Jason will replace it soon after the Walk.
David reported on the visual and audio equipment. Finance and property will put together a committee to get recommendations on what we need.
Margo and Linda Ploen also presented some ideas for landscaping around the church from “My Nest” green house. After some discussion it was decided to go with this plan, but just do along the south addition and around our sign at this time. We will decide on the other areas later. “My Nest” will give us a 15% discount on plants.
New Business
It was moved and 2nd to give Kaitlyn Tooley and Sarah Ehlers $100 each to go to church camp. Motion carried.
We also received a note from Lotus Paulsen from Avoca along with a monetary gift to defray the cost of the Gleaner.
A letter was also received from Family Crisis Center thanking us for the donation from Lenten services. It was also decided not to have a July meeting, as there is little business.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be August 10th at 7:00.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of session
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