First Presbyterian Church Church Phone: 712-784-3953
Box 707 Pastor David’s home phone: 712-784-2204
Walnut, IA 51577 Pastor David’s cell: 402-936-0153
Pastor’s Notes
Whoo Hoo! February is looming just around the corner. That means there’s only two more months of winter, right? I guess we could get a snow storm in April but it’s not going to last as long as what we see outside today.
Okay, I’ve had enough winter to last me for quite a while. I’m tired of snow. I’m tired of the ice. I’m tired of having the electricity go off for hours or days. I’m addicted to heat and lights and I’m getting just a little bit irritated from not seeing the sun as much as I’d like to see it.
So, I’m whining just a little, but I know I’m not alone in this. Be honest with me, you’re feeling a little bit like me too, aren’t you?
I think it’s time to be thinking about what’s coming up on the calendar. Do you realize that Ash Wednesday is February 17th? That’s right; the Lenten season is just around the corner. In fact if you would turn around you’d notice that it’s peeking at you.
So, what’s that mean to you, giving up something for Lent, Lenten evening worship along with good food and fellowship with our family, neighbors, and friends? Lent allows us time to reflect on where we’re at in our walk and how does Jesus fit into all of it.
I know we’ve just finished celebrating Jesus’ birth. Some churches are in the time of Epiphany and others are in what is known as Ordinary time. Epiphany always make me think of a cartoon with a bright light bulb suspended over someone’s head; an “aha” moment you might say. I only get those once every blue moon.
But ordinary time, well that’s almost every day isn’t it? I wake up, look at the clock, get up, get dressed, let Murphy out of his kennel and take him outside. While we’re out the coffee is brewing and will be ready when we get back. Then it’s time to take one upstairs to Mrs. K, the love of my life. I eat breakfast, check emails, put on my multiple layers of clothes and walk down to church. There’s morning prayers, study, and before I know it it’s time to go get the mail and walk back home for lunch with Mrs. K. Then I walk back to church for more study in preparation for Sunday’s message. At 5 I turn everything off and walk home to eat supper, read some, nap some, watch some TV and then to bed around 10. Pretty ordinary wouldn’t you agree. Maybe that’s why it’s called Ordinary time.
Now I’m getting ready to turn a page on the calendar and there it is, Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten season. What a great time of the year. I know that in about 7 weeks Easter will be here along with the promise of a new life.
We will be journeying with Jesus and his disciples, listening to his parables, watching him heal folks, and listen to him answer the tough questions everyone has for him, the why’s, the what’s, and the where’s. And we may even have some questions ourselves that we would like answers to. Isn’t there something you’ve been pondering and would like God to answer for you? Maybe during Lent he’ll help you find the answer.
Lent is a good time to work on our prayer time. If we’ve kind of let our prayer time slide because we thought we were too busy this is a good time to get it back on track. Oh, it’s not only prayer. What I meant is our time for reading, study, reflection, and prayer, which might include some silent time with God. I know, that’s kind of hard, but we all need some silence in our lives so we can hear God’s voice.
This season of Lent may be just the time we all need to get ourselves in shape for what God has planned for His church this year. There is much God has for us to do and we really do need to get ourselves in shape for it. If you’re like me you kind of let yourself go in the winter eating all the good stuff and neglecting the exercise. I think we tend to do the same thing with our devotional time. We get so wrapped up in things that we let our time with God kind of slip.
Friends, he misses us. Take time this season to get back in shape with God. Let him be your guide. Trust in him to take care of all the issues that you think only you can deal with. Just enjoy being in his presence.
Friends, I hope to see you all at the Lenten evening worship services in Walnut and Avoca.
May God bless you with his grace and peace,
Pastor David
IN MEMORIUM
MARIE MERTZ
APRIL 12, 1914 – JANUARY 10, 2010
Marie Mertz, 95, longtime resident of Walnut, Iowa passed away at Heritage House in Atlantic early on Sunday morning, January 10,2010.
Marie was born the daughter of Charles and Mary (Thiessen) Koll on April 26, 1914 in Walnut, Iowa. She grew up and attended country school in the Walnut area. Marie was married to Herbert Arthur Mertz on August 18, 1935 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The couple made their home in Walnut where they were blessed with a son and a daughter.
They were members of the First Presbyterian Church and Marie was active in the Ladies Aide and Eastern Star. She was on the board of directors at Walnut State Bank. She especially took interest in her doll collection, horses, shopping and playing in the Marne Band. Her most memorable vacation was their family Alaskan Cruise to celebrate Herbert’s and her 60th anniversary.
Marie will be remembered for her love for people and being with her grandchildren. She enjoyed life to the fullest.
She is survived by here son, Donald Mertz and his wife Virginia of Yuma, Arizona; her daughter Jean Schmitt and husband Joe of Walnut; one granddaughter Vickie Weihs and husband John of Walnut; three great grandchildren, Josie and Drew Cable and Matthew Weihs; seven Step-grandchildren; and a number of great-step grandchildren.
She was preceded in passing by her father Charles Koll; her mother Mary Koll Varns; her husband, Herbert; her sister Elsie Best; and brothers Lawrence Koll and Elmer Koll.
Lenten Services
Our Ash Wednesday Services will be at our church this year at 6:00 PM. on Feb 17th. As in the past we will alternate Wednesday evening meals and services between the two churches. Please try to join us for some good food, fellowship, and worship as we prepare for Christ’s resurrection. This year we are again participating with Peace United in Walnut, Trinity Lutheran, St.Mary’s, and United Church of Avoca in hosting Sunday evening Lenten worship and a meal. These services begin at 5 PM. Mark your calendars. The first Sunday service is at United Church at Avoca.
Seen in Church Bulletins (Not Ours)
(These are jokes)
The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.
The sermon this morning: “Jesus Walks on the Water”. The sermon tonight: “Searching for Jesus”.
The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict.
Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women will meet at 12:30 on Feb. 3rd for a Dutch Treat Lunch. Place to be announced.
Thank-you
Thank-you to anyone that gave miscellaneous paper gifts to the church.
Isn’t it strange--
how a 20 dollar bill seems like such a large amount when you donate it to church,
but such a small amount when you go shopping?
March Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Brett & Bonnie Holtz, David & Mary Woltmann – Communion Servers;
Dennis Jensen-chm, David Woltmann, Mary Ellen Woltmann, Teri Abel
Flowers for February
February 7----------- Michelle Mertz
February 14--------- Charlotte Shepherd
February 21--------- Alice Richter
February 28--------- Pam Nielsen
March 9---------------Linda Sieck
Church Humor
A Sunday school teacher asked her children as they were on the way to church service,
“And why is it necessary to be quiet in church?” One bright little girl replied, “Because
people are sleeping.”
The preacher was wired for sound with a lapel mic, and as he preached he moved
briskly about the platform, jerking the mic cord as he went. Then he moved to one side,
getting wound up in the cork and nearly tripping before jerking it again. After several
circles and jerks, a little girl in the third pew leaned toward her mother and whispered,
“If he gets loose, will he hurt us?”
Session Minutes
January 12, 2010
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on January 12, 2010 in the south Sunday School annex.
Those in attendance were Darlene Stuart, Gloria Myers, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Bobbie McDermott, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley and Bonnie Holtz. Absent were Leo Rechtenbach and Valerie Sievers.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Luke 13: 6-9. David also had a reflection from God’s work for Today on the story of the “unfruitful tree.”
The minutes from the November and December meetings were read and approved.
The treasurer’s report was approved as read.
David then presented his pastor’s report. He traveled 151 miles in November and 319 miles in December. Communion was served to several and many visitations were made. David will also be attending Winter Pastor’s School on Feb. 1-4 and a Board of Pensions Workshop on retirement in Kansas City on February 24-25. It was moved and 2nd to approve this report.
Linda Ploen reported that she has been sending in reports that are due to Presbytery. She also stated that we received our notice of apportionment and our share is $4,111.25 which is a per capita of $28.75 based on 143 members. We need to send letters out to inactive members. It was also moved and 2nd to approve our general mission pledge.
There was one death, that of Marie A Mertz. She died on January 10, 2010 and her service was on January 14th with interment at Layton Twp. Cemetery in Walnut, Iowa.
Reflecting on the Past Year
David asked us to think of the church’s accomplishments this year. Some were: the Wyoming Mission trip, the June Walk, the annual church supper, an active women's group, our Sunday School program, a great Bible School, the Angel tree. When asked what our lessons learned were, Jim stated” Don’t take boys to Canada when it’s rainy and cold!”
Stewardship and Mission
It was moved and 2nd to receive the One Great Hour of Sharing on Palm Sunday, March 28th.
Christian Education
Gloria has been reading the Christian Educator’s Guide and stated that we need to put together a committee of church members to evaluate what we want for our Christian Education program. She also sent scholarship forms to Kelsey Helms. Bonnie Holtz is now helping Robin Tooley with Sunday School to replace Teresa Griffith who will be on maternity leave.
Worship
Communion was served to 12 residents at Peace Haven on January 3rd with Darlene Stuart serving as elder. Lenten services will begin here on Ash Wednesday, February 17th at 6:00 p.m. Worship will follow the meal. United Church of Avoca will host the first Sunday service on February 21st at 5:00. Pastor David will be doing the worship service. A meal will follow worship.
Finance and Property
We need to plan for a spring cleaning day. It was mentioned that we need to have someone from Edward Jones come and speak to us about our investments to see if we can access our interest money. We also need to get Leo’s signature taken off financial statements as he is going off session.
Personnel
David asked for pastor evaluations and evaluations of other paid positions. There will be a Community Assistance Program meeting on February 21st at United Church in Avoca at 7:00 p.m.
New Business
There is a Presbytery meeting scheduled for February 20th at Church of the Cross from 1-3:30 p.m. David would like one of our elders to go also. The annual congregational meeting is January 24th, with church at 10:30 followed by a meal and the meeting. Mary Ellen Woltmann will prepare the meat. Gloria reported that the nominating committee has three proposed new members: Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger, and Jim Tooley. David will have training for these members. He is also looking into getting each elder a new “Book of Order”. It was moved and 2nd to have installation of elders on February 7th. Margo will be ordained also. David asked us to be thinking about the mission of our church. He said our numbers may be going down, but we can still do great things!.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be February 9th at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen, Clerk of Session
Annual Corporate Congregational Meeting
January 24, 2010
The annual meeting of the First Presbyterian Church of walnut, Iowa was held following a BBQ rib potluck dinner in the church basement.
The meeting began at 12:45 and was called to order by Moderator David Krueger, CLP. The meeting was opened with devotions and constituting prayer. There was a quorum of members present.
Barb Eslick moved and Jim McDermott 2nd the motion to approve the agenda as printed. Motion carried.
Linda Ploen then read the minutes to the January 25, 2009 corporate congregational meeting. Dennis Jensen moved and Darlene Stuart 2nd the motion to approve the minutes as read. Motion carried.
The following reports were presented: Pastor’s report, session, Christian Ed., PW, and choir. Jim McDermott moved and Allan Sievers 2nd the motion to approve the written reports. Motion carried.
The financial reports were then reviewed. They included: finance & property, stewardship, financial secretary, treasurer’s report, memorial fund, PW financial report and the youth group financial report. A motion was made by Craig Woltmann to approve these reports. Dennis Jensen 2nd the motion. Motion carried.
The congregational meeting was closed and the corporate meeting was called to order. Linda Krueger nominated the following members to serve as elders on session: Margo Matthies, Jim Tooley and Linda Krueger. Jim McDermott moved nominations cease and a unanimous ballot cast. Chuck Ploen 2nd the motion. Motion carried.
All church officers have agreed to continue their jobs for another year.
Jim McDermott, retiring 2010 elder, was nominated as the elder to serve on the 2010 nominating committee along with Chuck Ploen and Greg Mertz from the congregation. Linda Krueger moved and Linda Woltmann 2nd the motion that nominations cease and a unanimous ballot cast. Motion carried.
The 2010 church budget was then reviewed. The total proposed budget for 2010 is $75,835.50 as compared to $75,706.18 for 2009. Dennis Jensen moved and Allan Sievers 2nd the motion to approve the proposed budget. Motion carried. Moderator David then asked about our goals for the church. Jim McDermott stated that he wants to get our youth more involved in the church. We need to get some input from them. Charlotte Shepherd stated that the PW has funds available to help with youth activities. It was also mentioned that we need to get a new sidewalk out in front of the church and Chuck Ploen will give us a bid for repairing the round stained glass window on the front of the church.
David reported that even though we are a small church, our accomplishments are many. He mentioned many things including an active women’s group, the Antique Walk, and the trips for the youth. He also said that anyone can come to the church anytime if they have a need to be closer to God – he asked that we use the church! Perhaps we could even host a blood drive in the church basement. It was also mentioned that if anyone was interested, we could hold a small group discussion after church to discuss the sermon, scripture readings, etc. to better understand it’s meaning.
Linda Ploen brought up that we need new Bibles for the church pews so they’re all the same version. We could use memorial fund money or perhaps ask members to donate a Bible in memory of someone. We also could use some of the Memorial fun to upgrade our TV and DVD player.
Jim McDermott discussed their plans for a tubing trip on the Mississippi River for the youth and hopefully, families. David also mentioned that we are still waiting on a list of mission trip possibilities. Pastor David stated that one way we can try to get people to church is to talk about our church and tell others about our story. Share your Christian story with people.
George Mertz moved for adjournment. Barb Eslick 2nd the motion. The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Saturday, January 2, 2010
January 2010 Gleaner
Pastor’s Notes
We are for sure in the Christmas season. Before we know it the Easter season will be here.
The birth of the Messiah, Jesus, has just been celebrated and soon we’ll be remembering his death and resurrection. It seems to me that we move too quickly to Golgotha.
The truth is we need to go there so we can understand the reason God sent his Son here as a little baby. Without Jesus’ death on the cross and his resurrection from Joseph’s tomb the birth we just celebrated with parties and gift exchanges would have no meaning.
It’s not until Jesus suffered this humiliating death on the cross that we get a glimpse of what God through his love for his children has done for us. It’s through his death on the cross, Jesus dying for our sins, that we are forgiven. It’s through his resurrection that we are given the assurance of eternal life in heaven.
But friends, we will not go straight from the birth of Jesus to his death and resurrection. We will be hearing the gospel lessons from John & Luke this month. John begins by telling us that in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. This is John’s gospel story of the Messiah’s birth. Of course the story continues and wouldn’t be complete without the Voice from the Wilderness, Jesus’ cousin John.
We hear again the story of Jesus’ first miraculous sign, changing the water into wine at the wedding party in Cana in Galilee. Jesus is baptized in the Jordan River, driven into the desert where he is tempted and tried by the devil. He comes out of the wilderness filled with the power of the Spirit. The news about him spread all over the region. He goes into the synagogues as was his custom. He was asked to read in his hometown and there begins his problems with the religious leaders. Jesus teaches with authority and they aren’t ready to receive him or accept him as the Messiah.
It’s all part of God’s plan to redeem the world but it’s hard for us to understand love like that. It’s extremely difficult for us to commit our whole lives to God. What makes it so hard is the fact that we can’t love everyone unconditionally as God does us. We have a problem forgiving and forgetting wrongs done to us and therefore we can’t believe that God could forgive us for the wrongs we have done.
And so we need to come and hear the stories and be reminded of Jesus’ teachings of God, love, forgiveness, and service.
I struggle with giving my all to God because somewhere deep within my soul I think or feel that I need to do something to earn God’s favor. Friends, we don’t have to do anything other than believe and ask God for his forgiveness. Along with you I battle my humanness in committing my heart, mind, and soul to God. I will pray for you and I know you’ll pray for me and together we can win the battle against the sin in our lives. One day we too will join the saints in heaven glorifying the Lamb on the throne in the New Heaven and the New Jerusalem.
My friends, God loves you and wants you to accept your place as one of his children. Thanks be to God for his forgiving grace.
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
Again I say WOW! WOW! WOW! What a wonderful program the children put on for us.
Highlights this year for me were the “tipped halos”, Valerie smacking one of the burglars and the beautiful baby Jesus (Jacey Sievers). How Robin Tooley and Teresa Griffith put
it all together is truly a gift to us all.
Seen in Church Bulletins (Not Ours)
The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be
seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend
him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast
next Sunday.
GOOD GUYS FOOD BASKETS
Pastor David and Linda Krueger helped box up food for the needy on December 19th.
Several of the boxes were then picked up at our church and Pastor David delivered the rest to people without cars or for some reason were unable to pick them up.
Presbyterian Women
On December 16th P.W. President Charlotte Shepherd, Larry Shepherd, Margo Matthies and Linda Krueger went to Clarinda and helped fill app. twelve hundred Christmas stockings with crackers and candy for men and women in the prison system in SW Iowa.
They appreciate and we thank Edna Kutnink for all the stockings she has made for this
ministry over the years.
Thank-you
1. Big, big thank-you to Robin Tooley, Teresa Griffith and Connie Jensen for all their work with the Sunday School Christmas program.
2. Thank-you to Darlene Stuart, Jim McDermott, Pastor David and Linda Krueger for putting up and decorating the Christmas tree and bagging all the fruit and candy for the children and our shut-ins. David has delivered all the bags to shut-ins.
3. Thank-you to Denny and Connie Jensen for putting up the outside Nativity Scene.
4. Thank-you to all the families that helped light the advent wreath this year.
5. 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.
6. 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
Pastor David put sixty one angels on the Angel Tree at the library. Forty one of those angels were taken by people in the community that bought the presents requested. There were several cash donations given to Pastor David. He and Linda used that money to buy presents for the remaining twenty angels. Linda got them all wrapped, David got the names put on and then David delivered them. All the parents seemed very, very appreciative.
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 $28.75 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: Jim McDermott-chm, Greg Mertz, Michelle Mertz, Charles Walter
Flowers for January
January 10---------JoJane Walter
January 17-------Margo Matthies
January 24-------Willa Petersen
January 31------Linda Krueger
Church Humor
A kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they drew.
She would occasionally walk around to see each child’s artwork. As she got to one
little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was.
The girl replied, “I’m drawing God.”
The teacher paused and said, “But no one knows what God looks like.”
Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the little girl replied,
“They will in a minute.”
Gifts for the Church
Annual Meeting
The annual Congregational Church Meeting will be January 24th. 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, janitorial supplies and there has even been a
request for an electric knife. 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 10th. FOR PRINTING.
Session Minutes
December 8, 2009
Due to inclement weather, the session meeting was conducted via email.
Pastor David reported that he will be doing the funeral service for Donald Griffith (Bill’s brother), at Roland Funeral Home on Saturday December 12th at 10 a.m.
All MRV Presbytery annual reports are due. Per capita apportionment for 2010 was approved at the November Presbytery meeting. The per capita amount for 2010 is $28.75 for a total of $4,111.25. This is due February 15th unless a notice of intent is sent to the Finance Section prior to their January meeting.
Stewardship and Mission
The Angel Tree had 61 angels. The gifts will be wrapped on Monday, Dec. 14 in the church basement with the help of the Walnut Optimist. A donation was received from the St. Patrick’s church council for $365 and $100 from Judy Brehmer, Harold & Mary Hansen’s daughter. This will be used to purchase gifts for the 20 angels that were still on the tree last Monday.
It was approved to receive the Joy offering. Fifty percent of the offering goes to the Board of Pensions for assistance programs that provide support to retired and active church workers and their spouses and families and 50 percent to the Presbyterian racial ethnic schools and colleges.
Christian Education
Linda and David will get the fruit and candy for the bags for the Sunday School children. They will bag it on Friday morning. The Sunday School Christmas program will be on December 13th during worship.
Worship
Communion was served to Judy Ferguson on November 3rd and to 6 residents at Peace Haven on December 6th with Jim McDermott serving as elder. Christmas Eve worship service will be at 10 p.m. Joint Lenten worship service dates with Walnut and Avoca churches have been set, 5 p.m. worship followed by a meal. They are as follows:
a. 2/21, 1st Sunday in Lent-United Church of Avoca; David is giving the message
b. 2/28, 2nd Sunday in Lent- Peace UCC; John is giving the message
c. 3/7, 3rd Sunday in Lent- St. Mary’s; Nancy is giving the message
d. 3/14, 4th Sunday in Lent- First Presbyterian Walnut; Dennis giving the message
e. 3/21, 5th Sunday in Lent- Trinity; Gail is giving the message
Joint Wednesday evening services with Peace UCC will begin on Ash Wednesday at 6:00 at First Presbyterian Church.
Finance & Property
Christmas gifts for church personnel are $25 to Teachers, custodian, financial secretary, treasurer, clerk, and church secretary, $50 to choir director, and $250 to the pastor. Christmas gift baskets for our senior members will be delivered. David and Linda will get the fruit. David asked for elders to help deliver the baskets.
Personnel
The nominating committee should be meeting to fill the soon-to-be- vacant active elder positions. The committee is Gloria Myers, Larry Shepherd, and Linda Krueger.
New Business
The date for the annual meeting has been set for January 24th.
Next meeting will be January 12th at 7:00
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Birthday Wishes
Our good friend and church member Avis Mortensen will be celebrating her 80th birthday on January 2. Her family is hosting a card shower in her honor. Cards can be sent to her at 800 Chestnut, Apt 402, Atlantic, IA 50022
We are for sure in the Christmas season. Before we know it the Easter season will be here.
The birth of the Messiah, Jesus, has just been celebrated and soon we’ll be remembering his death and resurrection. It seems to me that we move too quickly to Golgotha.
The truth is we need to go there so we can understand the reason God sent his Son here as a little baby. Without Jesus’ death on the cross and his resurrection from Joseph’s tomb the birth we just celebrated with parties and gift exchanges would have no meaning.
It’s not until Jesus suffered this humiliating death on the cross that we get a glimpse of what God through his love for his children has done for us. It’s through his death on the cross, Jesus dying for our sins, that we are forgiven. It’s through his resurrection that we are given the assurance of eternal life in heaven.
But friends, we will not go straight from the birth of Jesus to his death and resurrection. We will be hearing the gospel lessons from John & Luke this month. John begins by telling us that in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. This is John’s gospel story of the Messiah’s birth. Of course the story continues and wouldn’t be complete without the Voice from the Wilderness, Jesus’ cousin John.
We hear again the story of Jesus’ first miraculous sign, changing the water into wine at the wedding party in Cana in Galilee. Jesus is baptized in the Jordan River, driven into the desert where he is tempted and tried by the devil. He comes out of the wilderness filled with the power of the Spirit. The news about him spread all over the region. He goes into the synagogues as was his custom. He was asked to read in his hometown and there begins his problems with the religious leaders. Jesus teaches with authority and they aren’t ready to receive him or accept him as the Messiah.
It’s all part of God’s plan to redeem the world but it’s hard for us to understand love like that. It’s extremely difficult for us to commit our whole lives to God. What makes it so hard is the fact that we can’t love everyone unconditionally as God does us. We have a problem forgiving and forgetting wrongs done to us and therefore we can’t believe that God could forgive us for the wrongs we have done.
And so we need to come and hear the stories and be reminded of Jesus’ teachings of God, love, forgiveness, and service.
I struggle with giving my all to God because somewhere deep within my soul I think or feel that I need to do something to earn God’s favor. Friends, we don’t have to do anything other than believe and ask God for his forgiveness. Along with you I battle my humanness in committing my heart, mind, and soul to God. I will pray for you and I know you’ll pray for me and together we can win the battle against the sin in our lives. One day we too will join the saints in heaven glorifying the Lamb on the throne in the New Heaven and the New Jerusalem.
My friends, God loves you and wants you to accept your place as one of his children. Thanks be to God for his forgiving grace.
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
Again I say WOW! WOW! WOW! What a wonderful program the children put on for us.
Highlights this year for me were the “tipped halos”, Valerie smacking one of the burglars and the beautiful baby Jesus (Jacey Sievers). How Robin Tooley and Teresa Griffith put
it all together is truly a gift to us all.
Seen in Church Bulletins (Not Ours)
The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be
seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend
him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast
next Sunday.
GOOD GUYS FOOD BASKETS
Pastor David and Linda Krueger helped box up food for the needy on December 19th.
Several of the boxes were then picked up at our church and Pastor David delivered the rest to people without cars or for some reason were unable to pick them up.
Presbyterian Women
On December 16th P.W. President Charlotte Shepherd, Larry Shepherd, Margo Matthies and Linda Krueger went to Clarinda and helped fill app. twelve hundred Christmas stockings with crackers and candy for men and women in the prison system in SW Iowa.
They appreciate and we thank Edna Kutnink for all the stockings she has made for this
ministry over the years.
Thank-you
1. Big, big thank-you to Robin Tooley, Teresa Griffith and Connie Jensen for all their work with the Sunday School Christmas program.
2. Thank-you to Darlene Stuart, Jim McDermott, Pastor David and Linda Krueger for putting up and decorating the Christmas tree and bagging all the fruit and candy for the children and our shut-ins. David has delivered all the bags to shut-ins.
3. Thank-you to Denny and Connie Jensen for putting up the outside Nativity Scene.
4. Thank-you to all the families that helped light the advent wreath this year.
5. 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.
6. 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
Pastor David put sixty one angels on the Angel Tree at the library. Forty one of those angels were taken by people in the community that bought the presents requested. There were several cash donations given to Pastor David. He and Linda used that money to buy presents for the remaining twenty angels. Linda got them all wrapped, David got the names put on and then David delivered them. All the parents seemed very, very appreciative.
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 $28.75 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: Jim McDermott-chm, Greg Mertz, Michelle Mertz, Charles Walter
Flowers for January
January 10---------JoJane Walter
January 17-------Margo Matthies
January 24-------Willa Petersen
January 31------Linda Krueger
Church Humor
A kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they drew.
She would occasionally walk around to see each child’s artwork. As she got to one
little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was.
The girl replied, “I’m drawing God.”
The teacher paused and said, “But no one knows what God looks like.”
Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the little girl replied,
“They will in a minute.”
Gifts for the Church
Annual Meeting
The annual Congregational Church Meeting will be January 24th. 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, janitorial supplies and there has even been a
request for an electric knife. 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 10th. FOR PRINTING.
Session Minutes
December 8, 2009
Due to inclement weather, the session meeting was conducted via email.
Pastor David reported that he will be doing the funeral service for Donald Griffith (Bill’s brother), at Roland Funeral Home on Saturday December 12th at 10 a.m.
All MRV Presbytery annual reports are due. Per capita apportionment for 2010 was approved at the November Presbytery meeting. The per capita amount for 2010 is $28.75 for a total of $4,111.25. This is due February 15th unless a notice of intent is sent to the Finance Section prior to their January meeting.
Stewardship and Mission
The Angel Tree had 61 angels. The gifts will be wrapped on Monday, Dec. 14 in the church basement with the help of the Walnut Optimist. A donation was received from the St. Patrick’s church council for $365 and $100 from Judy Brehmer, Harold & Mary Hansen’s daughter. This will be used to purchase gifts for the 20 angels that were still on the tree last Monday.
It was approved to receive the Joy offering. Fifty percent of the offering goes to the Board of Pensions for assistance programs that provide support to retired and active church workers and their spouses and families and 50 percent to the Presbyterian racial ethnic schools and colleges.
Christian Education
Linda and David will get the fruit and candy for the bags for the Sunday School children. They will bag it on Friday morning. The Sunday School Christmas program will be on December 13th during worship.
Worship
Communion was served to Judy Ferguson on November 3rd and to 6 residents at Peace Haven on December 6th with Jim McDermott serving as elder. Christmas Eve worship service will be at 10 p.m. Joint Lenten worship service dates with Walnut and Avoca churches have been set, 5 p.m. worship followed by a meal. They are as follows:
a. 2/21, 1st Sunday in Lent-United Church of Avoca; David is giving the message
b. 2/28, 2nd Sunday in Lent- Peace UCC; John is giving the message
c. 3/7, 3rd Sunday in Lent- St. Mary’s; Nancy is giving the message
d. 3/14, 4th Sunday in Lent- First Presbyterian Walnut; Dennis giving the message
e. 3/21, 5th Sunday in Lent- Trinity; Gail is giving the message
Joint Wednesday evening services with Peace UCC will begin on Ash Wednesday at 6:00 at First Presbyterian Church.
Finance & Property
Christmas gifts for church personnel are $25 to Teachers, custodian, financial secretary, treasurer, clerk, and church secretary, $50 to choir director, and $250 to the pastor. Christmas gift baskets for our senior members will be delivered. David and Linda will get the fruit. David asked for elders to help deliver the baskets.
Personnel
The nominating committee should be meeting to fill the soon-to-be- vacant active elder positions. The committee is Gloria Myers, Larry Shepherd, and Linda Krueger.
New Business
The date for the annual meeting has been set for January 24th.
Next meeting will be January 12th at 7:00
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Birthday Wishes
Our good friend and church member Avis Mortensen will be celebrating her 80th birthday on January 2. Her family is hosting a card shower in her honor. Cards can be sent to her at 800 Chestnut, Apt 402, Atlantic, IA 50022
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
December 2009 Gleaner
Pastor’s Notes
As I sit down at my desk to write this month I can hardly believe that another year has passed us by. This coming Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent, which means we are beginning a new church year. When one year ends and a new one begins its always good, I think, to look back and review where we’ve been.
November 1st was All Saints Day. During worship we remembered those who have gone on ahead of us, nine of our brothers and sisters, saints who inspired us with their lives.
This past summer one group went to Canada to experience God’s creation up north. Another group went west and helped a small rural church in Wyoming finish a project adding a fellowship room complete with indoor plumbing. They still have the outhouse. It’s hard to do away with something that’s been so much a part of them. This winter they will really appreciate it. It was a great experience for all who were able to participate.
Our church joined Peace UCC in another successful summer Bible school. As I help, wherever I’m told to be, I’m reminded to look at the world with the eyes children and to have fun in each day the Lord blesses us with. If you haven’t had a chance to help with Bible school for a while maybe this next year you should try it out again. It’s a real hoot.
We are truly blessed to have a choir that is so faithful in practice and in leading us in song each Sunday. Even though the numbers in the loft are down those who are here inspire us with God’s Message lifted up in song.
Downstairs each Sunday after worship there is the sound of young folks coming in to hear the lesson from those whom God has called to teach. We are blessed to have folks who find joy in doing this work for His church. Good friends you should check it out some Sunday.
I haven’t made many of the PW meetings this year but I know there is solid core of women who come together every month to study and fellowship and work on the mission God has given them in this community. The bazaar and dinner is just one example of what these ladies are capable of doing. The Antique Walk in June is another example of the whole church coming together to feed those who come to browse the antiques displayed on our streets. There’s a theme here friends and it revolves around meat, and other good dishes, and feeding folks. Not only are those who come nourished with food but also they are filled with the joy of wonderful fellowship by those who serve them. It is truly a gift from God to be able to do this.
These are just a few of my memories from this year just now past and I’m sure you can add your own story as well. As you sit down to Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners with family and friends take some time to reflect on God’s gifts to this church this year and be ready for what he has planned next.
God’s blessing to each of you. May you be filled with the joy of being in God’s presence,
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
The annual Sunday School Christmas program will be December 13th during worship. The title of this year’s program is “All I Want for Christmas---Is Jesus.” Come and enjoy watching our youth perform and sing for us.
Seen in Church Bulletins (Not Ours)
Ladies don’t forget the rummage sale. It’s a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.
For those of you that have children and don’t know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
Don’t let worry kill you off – let the Church help.
GOOD GUYS FOOD BASKETS
Good Guys provide Christmas food baskets for families who just need a little extra help. We can all help someone in need by donating toward the Good Guys Fund. Donations can be given to Pastor David. Please make your checks to “The Good Guys”.
If you are someone in need of a Good Guys box this year please let Pastor David know by
Dec. 4th. If you know of someone in need please check with them before placing their name on the list. This year families will be able to pick up their boxes Saturday, December 19 at 10:00 a.m. at our church. This is different from past years when the boxes were delivered. The changes were made because families were not always home when the boxes were delivered, and the delivery boy is getting too old!!
Thank-you
Thank-you to everyone who helped in any way to make our Church Bazaar and Supper a success. Vincent Hansen won Dixie Schirm’s afghan.
We served approximately 342 meals (in church and carry-outs).
Thank-you to Margo Matthies for helping Pastor David with the Angel Tree.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Elissa Johnk, granddaughter of Carolyn Johnk, for becoming an ordained minister. Elissa is a recent graduate of Harvard University.
Congratulations to our members named to the Middle School Honor Roll:
Emily Mitchell and Alyssa Becerra
ANGEL TREE
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 11th.
Thank you for thinking of others this Christmas season. May God bless you and yours as you have helped to bless others.
Pastor David
As I sit down at my desk to write this month I can hardly believe that another year has passed us by. This coming Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent, which means we are beginning a new church year. When one year ends and a new one begins its always good, I think, to look back and review where we’ve been.
November 1st was All Saints Day. During worship we remembered those who have gone on ahead of us, nine of our brothers and sisters, saints who inspired us with their lives.
This past summer one group went to Canada to experience God’s creation up north. Another group went west and helped a small rural church in Wyoming finish a project adding a fellowship room complete with indoor plumbing. They still have the outhouse. It’s hard to do away with something that’s been so much a part of them. This winter they will really appreciate it. It was a great experience for all who were able to participate.
Our church joined Peace UCC in another successful summer Bible school. As I help, wherever I’m told to be, I’m reminded to look at the world with the eyes children and to have fun in each day the Lord blesses us with. If you haven’t had a chance to help with Bible school for a while maybe this next year you should try it out again. It’s a real hoot.
We are truly blessed to have a choir that is so faithful in practice and in leading us in song each Sunday. Even though the numbers in the loft are down those who are here inspire us with God’s Message lifted up in song.
Downstairs each Sunday after worship there is the sound of young folks coming in to hear the lesson from those whom God has called to teach. We are blessed to have folks who find joy in doing this work for His church. Good friends you should check it out some Sunday.
I haven’t made many of the PW meetings this year but I know there is solid core of women who come together every month to study and fellowship and work on the mission God has given them in this community. The bazaar and dinner is just one example of what these ladies are capable of doing. The Antique Walk in June is another example of the whole church coming together to feed those who come to browse the antiques displayed on our streets. There’s a theme here friends and it revolves around meat, and other good dishes, and feeding folks. Not only are those who come nourished with food but also they are filled with the joy of wonderful fellowship by those who serve them. It is truly a gift from God to be able to do this.
These are just a few of my memories from this year just now past and I’m sure you can add your own story as well. As you sit down to Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners with family and friends take some time to reflect on God’s gifts to this church this year and be ready for what he has planned next.
God’s blessing to each of you. May you be filled with the joy of being in God’s presence,
Pastor David
Sunday School Christmas Program
The annual Sunday School Christmas program will be December 13th during worship. The title of this year’s program is “All I Want for Christmas---Is Jesus.” Come and enjoy watching our youth perform and sing for us.
Seen in Church Bulletins (Not Ours)
Ladies don’t forget the rummage sale. It’s a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.
For those of you that have children and don’t know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
Don’t let worry kill you off – let the Church help.
GOOD GUYS FOOD BASKETS
Good Guys provide Christmas food baskets for families who just need a little extra help. We can all help someone in need by donating toward the Good Guys Fund. Donations can be given to Pastor David. Please make your checks to “The Good Guys”.
If you are someone in need of a Good Guys box this year please let Pastor David know by
Dec. 4th. If you know of someone in need please check with them before placing their name on the list. This year families will be able to pick up their boxes Saturday, December 19 at 10:00 a.m. at our church. This is different from past years when the boxes were delivered. The changes were made because families were not always home when the boxes were delivered, and the delivery boy is getting too old!!
Thank-you
Thank-you to everyone who helped in any way to make our Church Bazaar and Supper a success. Vincent Hansen won Dixie Schirm’s afghan.
We served approximately 342 meals (in church and carry-outs).
Thank-you to Margo Matthies for helping Pastor David with the Angel Tree.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Elissa Johnk, granddaughter of Carolyn Johnk, for becoming an ordained minister. Elissa is a recent graduate of Harvard University.
Congratulations to our members named to the Middle School Honor Roll:
Emily Mitchell and Alyssa Becerra
ANGEL TREE
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 11th.
Thank you for thinking of others this Christmas season. May God bless you and yours as you have helped to bless others.
Pastor David
POINSETTIAS
Poinsettias will be placed in the sanctuary in memory of family and friends who have passed on. The Presbyterian Women have ordered three for the church. A complete list will be in the bulletin later in December.
January Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Dennis Jensen, Dustin Jensen, Allan & Diana Sievers Communion Servers: Darlene Stuart-chm., Allan Sievers, Dennis Jensen, Linda Woltmann. December ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Church Humor
A ten-year old, under the tutelage of her grandmother, was becoming quite ledgeable about the Bible. knowledgeable about the Bible. Then one day she floored her grandmother by
asking, “Which Virgin was the mother of Jesus? The Virgin Mary or The
King James Virgin?”
Marie Mertz & “Murphy”
Pastor David took his dog to Heritage House in Atlantic to visit with Marie Mertz.
Session Minutes
November 3, 2009
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on November 3, 2009 in the south Sunday School annex.
Those in attendance were: Darlene Stuart, Gloria Myers, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Robin Tooley, and Bonnie Holtz. Absent were: Leo Rechtenbach, Valerie Sievers, Bobbie McDermott, and Dennis Jensen.
Moderator David Krueger called the 7:00 meeting to order with prayer. Scripture was read from 1 Corinthians 12:27 and Galatians 3:26 with a reflection entitled: Belonging to God”.
The minutes of the October 13th meeting were read and approved.
The treasurer’s report was approved as read.
The pastor’s report was given and approved. Pastor David traveled 128 miles this month with communion served to 8 people, both at Peace Haven and in homes.
Linda reported that she had taken our record books to be audited. It went well.
There was one funeral, that of Marjorie E. McDermott who died on October 12, 2009. Interment was October 19th at the Layton Twp. Cemetery.
David reported that several names had been taken off the Gleaner mailing list to save some postage.
Stewardship and Mission
Darlene reported that she and Bonnie had mailed out 103 stewardship letters. David reported on a mission fund raising idea. It was decided not to proceed with this. It was also moved and 2nd to allow David to renew our subscription for Thoughtful Christians at a cost of $150. By reordering now we save $45. We are still looking for ideas for another mission trip.
Christian Education
Robin reported that Sunday School was going well and also announced that the Sunday School Christmas program will be on December 13th during church service. Gloria is still reading the Christian Educator’s Guide to Evaluating and Developing Curriculum. It was also brought up for discussion that we have a need to get more youth and young adults involved in church. Perhaps we need to look into hiring a youth coordinator on a part time basis. We will look into this possibility. Gloria also brought up the fact that she will be going off session, so who would be taking care of the scholarship fund. After some discussion, she agreed to continue working with this.
Worship
Communion was served to Judy Ferguson and 7 residents at Peace Haven with Bobbie McDermott serving as elder. David announced that the joint Thanksgiving Eve service with Peace Church would be at our church on November 25th at 7:00 p.m. It was also discussed as to whether we should continue having this service due to poor attendance. We will see how this year goes and then re-evaluate for next year.
The first Sunday of Advent is November 29th. David will put up the Advent Candle prior to the 29th and we will decorate the tree and sanctuary after the 29th service. It was moved and 2nd to have the laminated pew cards made.
Finance and Property
We reviewed and set the budget for 2010. Jim spoke with Hunter Nielsen and he agreed to take care of our snow removal and lawn mowing.
New business
Brandi Wood has reserved the church basement for December 12th from 11-4, Velma Fell for December 27th from 1-4, and Jim McDermott for December 19th. November 10th is the MRV Presbytery meeting at First Presbyterian Church in Shenandoah from 5:00 – 8:30. There is also a need for gently used winter coats for the Crossroads Connection prison ministry program in Omaha. Coats can be brought to the church. It was also mentioned that next summer we could possibly attend another Presbyterian church as a group or congregation on some Sunday instead of getting a supply pastor while David is on vacation- just a thought.
David closed the meeting with prayer and the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be December 8th at 7:00.
Clerk of Session
Linda Ploen
Friday, October 23, 2009
November 2009 Gleaner
Pastor’s Notes
This last week, Wednesday through Sunday, I was at a spiritual retreat named Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage. It was the 6th such retreat held by this group. You might be wondering why it is that your pastor keeps going back after being a guest pilgrim at #2.
Well, for me, it’s a little like a family reunion where you get to be with family you don’t get to see everyday and there’s really good food. But it’s way more than that. Every time I go I am filled with God’s grace in this wonderful, awesome ecumenical Christian community. And I am inspired and convicted to respond to this grace that is so freely bestowed on all of us by a God who truly loves us.
It’s a little like the best vacation you can remember ever being on. The site is beautiful, the food is top notch, and you are filled with so much love your heart overflows. My words just don’t seem to adequately describe it. I guess the best way to find out what I’m talking about is to get a registration blank and fill it out for the April 22-25, 2010 pilgrimage that will be at Camp Calvin Crest along the Platte River just south of Fremont, NE.
I go there to serve others and even though we all go to bed late and get up early it really doesn’t seem like work. There are 14 talks given by lay speakers and clergy. There are stories told that make you laugh so hard you almost can’t breathe. And then there are talks that are so heart wrenching that you’d swear there aren’t going to be enough tissues in the box.
It’s just the best spiritual retreat ever. And you don’t have to observe silence the whole time. Maybe for some that wouldn’t be a good thing. Oh, there are quiet times but there’s also a lot of singing and telling short, clean, funny stories. Have I told you that the food is the best there is? And you don’t have to cook or wash dishes. It’s great.
If you decide to come you will discover that your relationship with Jesus becomes stronger and you be searching for ways that you can serve others through Him.
If you’re curious about what Pilgrimage is go to this website, http://www.gpppilgrimage.org, for more information.
Fall supper work schedule is included in this Gleaner. Please check to see your duties.
In Memoriam
Marjorie Evalyn McDermott
May 29, 1924-October 12, 2009
Marjorie Evalyn McDermott
Marjorie Evalyn Jones was born on May 29, 1924, in rural Lewis. She was the daughter of Glenn Owen Jones and Beula Collier Jones, and had one brother, Glenn Owen Jones.
The family moved to Atlantic when she was a young child, where she attended Jackson Elementary School, and graduated from Atlantic High School in 1941. After high school, she worked at Atlantic State Bank for four years, and then as secretary to her father in his positions as an officer in state and national beekeeping organizations. In this capacity, she traveled extensively throughout the United States with her father.
On September 20, 1947, Marjorie married Austin D. McDermott and became a farm wife. They loved dancing, family gatherings and holding hands. Austie loved horses, and for him she learned to ride. They farmed for a short while west of Atlantic, then moved to the farm southeast of Walnut where they would raise their family, Evelyn, Elaine, Jim and Karen (aka Kenner). Marjorie raised chickens, selling the eggs and dressed chickens. She tended a large garden for many years, and canned and froze the produce. She was also an expert seamstress and enjoyed candlewick, needlepoint and other sewing crafts. An excellent cook, she excelled especially at baking pies and homemade bread. She enjoyed traveling, and went on many fun road trips with her friends Ruby and Jean as the trio aptly called “The Roving Redheads.” She also loved traveling with her grandchildren, and took each on a special trip at least one time before her health limited her travel.
In 1979, Marge and Austie moved to Walnut, at which time she worked as a desk clerk at the Country Village Inn. Marjorie lost the love of her life when Austie died in 1981. She retired in 1994, and later moved to Peace Haven Retirement Home in Walnut. In 2006, she moved to Heritage House in Atlantic where she grew fond of the nurses and aides who cared for her, calling them “her girls.”
Marjorie was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Walnut, United Presbyterian Women, Walnut Genealogy Society, and served many years on the board of the Walnut Library.
Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Austin, her brother Glenn, daughter Evelyn Eblen, in-laws Harry and Josephine McDermott, and brothers-in-law Clarence McDermott, Robert McDermott, Herb McDermott and Richard McDermott.
Marjorie is survived by her daughters, Elaine McDermott of Kansas City, MO, and Kenner Baxter (Randy) of Marne, and by her son Jim McDermott (Bobbie) of Walnut. Also her son-in –law Gene Eblen of Walnut, grandchildren Aaron Eblen (Essence) of Pensacola, FL, Tony Eblen (Lindsey) of Treynor, Adam Eblen (Melissa) of Jacksonville, FL, Megan Andersen (Brian) of Omaha, Nellie Popp (Brian) of Omaha, Christina Baxter of Marne, and Brittney Baxter of Waterloo, as well as great grandchildren Dylan Eblen, Aubry Eblen, Emma Eblen, Evyn Eblen, Cohen Eblen, Kenner Eblen, Nora Andersen and Dasia Baxter. She also leaves behind her beloved sisters-in-law, many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Pauley Jones Funeral Homes is in charge of arrangements. Visitation will be Sunday, October 18, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church in Walnut, with the funeral on Monday, October 19, 10:00 a.m. at the church.
Thank-You
Special thanks go out in this November (Thanksgiving) Gleaner to all our Church volunteers:
Sunday School teachers Robyn Tooley & Teresa Griffith
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!
Pumpkin
Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff-- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside you to shine for all the world to see.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Ty Johnk for showing the Champion AOB Breeding Beef at Ak-Sar-Ben Youth Livestock Exposition.
December Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Ross & Jean Bornholdt, Craig & Linda Woltmann Communion Servers: Leo Rechtenbach-chm, Jean Bornholdt, Jim & Bobbi McDermott. November ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
November 1 –Mary Ellen Woltmann
November 8- Linda Woltmannh
November 15- Gloria Walter
Flu Shots
Don’t forget to stop in at the Walnut City Hall to get your flu shots Friday, November 6th from 9:00-11:00.The Shot is $25.00 and the Flu mist is $30.00.
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. The deadline for ordering is November 8th. Color choices are red, pink, white, or marble. You can choose a Wednesday, November 25th delivery date or Thursday, December 3rd (available for pick-up at the elementary winter concert.) Please make your checks out to Music Parents.
Wanted
People who are excited about Prayer!
MRVP Committee for Congregations is looking for individuals who are devoted to prayer and would be willing to serve on a prayer team to pray for revitalization, re-development, and new church development. If you are this person, contact Pastor David for more information.
Session Minutes
October 13, 2009
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on October 13, 2009 in the south Sunday School annex.
Those in attendance were Darlene Stuart, Gloria Myers, Val Sievers, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Bobbie McDermott, Robin Tooley, and Bonnie Holtz. Absent were Leo Rechtenbach and Dennis Jensen.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer. Scripture readings and our reflection were based on Psalms 22:6.
The minutes of the September meeting were read and approved.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as presented.
Pastor David reported that he would like to take a class called “Sharpening Your Skills: A Course in Pastoral Care.” It is coordinated by the Nebraska Medical Center Clinical Pastoral Education Unit. It was moved and 2nd to pay the $260 fee for this class. Motion carried Pastor David traveled a total of 339 miles and made many visitations.
Linda reported that she will be going to New Horizon church on October 27th for a review of our church records. She also read a letter from the MRVP Committee for Congregations asking for individual devoted to prayer who would be willing to serve on a prayer team to pray for revitalization, re-development and new church development.
Stewardship and Mission
It’s time for our stewardship campaign. Bonnie and Darlene will work on this. We also reviewed the Gleaner mailing list to see if any names could be eliminated to save some cost. Several ideas were mentioned to help save money. No decision made. Darlene reported that 36 people walked on the Crop Walk and a total of $2100 was raised.
Christian Education
Any discussion on our Christian educator’s Guide to Evaluating and Developing Curriculum was tabled again. Robin reported that 9 kids are attending Sunday School. She also said that she would like to have a Halloween party for our kids before they go UNICEFing. St. Pat’s is in charge of UNICEF. Gloria also reported that all the receiving blankets made by the Bible School kids are gone, so we need to have our kids make more, as we have several babies to be born this year.
Worship
Pastor David and Jim Tooley took communion to Judy Ferguson. She has requested to have communion each month. Four and five residents were served communion at Peace Haven. Elders Gloria Myers and Allan Sievers served the respective months.
Finance and Property
The furnace was not working so Feekes came and made repairs. We need to start thinking about the 2010 budget. A motion was made to look into having a church member take care of snow removal and mowing. It was 2nd and carried. Jim and Linda will look into this. It was also moved and 2nd to compensate Tom Liston for weed eating behind the church. We will give him two free tickets to the church dinner. Motion carried. Gloria reported that a refrigerator was purchased on Vic and Edna Nielsen’s sale for $225. It was moved and 2nd to take the money from the Memorial fund. Motion carried. Linda also reported that Chuck had put on a new door knob on the south annex and repaired the retaining wall and downspout in the back of the church. He also made recommendations for the round window on the front of the church. It was moved and 2nd to go ahead with the window repair with monies coming from the Memorial Fund. Motion carried. Chuck will have a detailed estimate for the next meeting.
New Business
It was approved to allow the Walt Siever’s family to use the church basement on November 14th from 11:30-4:00. November 10th will be the MRV Presbytery meeting at First Presbyterian Church in Shenandoah from 5-7. Pott. County End of Life Community Partnership is offering information to anyone interested. David received the 2010 minimum terms of call for MRV Presbytery. David has envelops available from Would Vision so individuals can donate each month to feed a child. Darlene showed us a laminated flyer that could be put in each pew telling members and visitors about our church. No action was taken.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting November 3rd at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
This last week, Wednesday through Sunday, I was at a spiritual retreat named Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage. It was the 6th such retreat held by this group. You might be wondering why it is that your pastor keeps going back after being a guest pilgrim at #2.
Well, for me, it’s a little like a family reunion where you get to be with family you don’t get to see everyday and there’s really good food. But it’s way more than that. Every time I go I am filled with God’s grace in this wonderful, awesome ecumenical Christian community. And I am inspired and convicted to respond to this grace that is so freely bestowed on all of us by a God who truly loves us.
It’s a little like the best vacation you can remember ever being on. The site is beautiful, the food is top notch, and you are filled with so much love your heart overflows. My words just don’t seem to adequately describe it. I guess the best way to find out what I’m talking about is to get a registration blank and fill it out for the April 22-25, 2010 pilgrimage that will be at Camp Calvin Crest along the Platte River just south of Fremont, NE.
I go there to serve others and even though we all go to bed late and get up early it really doesn’t seem like work. There are 14 talks given by lay speakers and clergy. There are stories told that make you laugh so hard you almost can’t breathe. And then there are talks that are so heart wrenching that you’d swear there aren’t going to be enough tissues in the box.
It’s just the best spiritual retreat ever. And you don’t have to observe silence the whole time. Maybe for some that wouldn’t be a good thing. Oh, there are quiet times but there’s also a lot of singing and telling short, clean, funny stories. Have I told you that the food is the best there is? And you don’t have to cook or wash dishes. It’s great.
If you decide to come you will discover that your relationship with Jesus becomes stronger and you be searching for ways that you can serve others through Him.
If you’re curious about what Pilgrimage is go to this website, http://www.gpppilgrimage.org, for more information.
Fall supper work schedule is included in this Gleaner. Please check to see your duties.
In Memoriam
Marjorie Evalyn McDermott
May 29, 1924-October 12, 2009
Marjorie Evalyn McDermott
Marjorie Evalyn Jones was born on May 29, 1924, in rural Lewis. She was the daughter of Glenn Owen Jones and Beula Collier Jones, and had one brother, Glenn Owen Jones.
The family moved to Atlantic when she was a young child, where she attended Jackson Elementary School, and graduated from Atlantic High School in 1941. After high school, she worked at Atlantic State Bank for four years, and then as secretary to her father in his positions as an officer in state and national beekeeping organizations. In this capacity, she traveled extensively throughout the United States with her father.
On September 20, 1947, Marjorie married Austin D. McDermott and became a farm wife. They loved dancing, family gatherings and holding hands. Austie loved horses, and for him she learned to ride. They farmed for a short while west of Atlantic, then moved to the farm southeast of Walnut where they would raise their family, Evelyn, Elaine, Jim and Karen (aka Kenner). Marjorie raised chickens, selling the eggs and dressed chickens. She tended a large garden for many years, and canned and froze the produce. She was also an expert seamstress and enjoyed candlewick, needlepoint and other sewing crafts. An excellent cook, she excelled especially at baking pies and homemade bread. She enjoyed traveling, and went on many fun road trips with her friends Ruby and Jean as the trio aptly called “The Roving Redheads.” She also loved traveling with her grandchildren, and took each on a special trip at least one time before her health limited her travel.
In 1979, Marge and Austie moved to Walnut, at which time she worked as a desk clerk at the Country Village Inn. Marjorie lost the love of her life when Austie died in 1981. She retired in 1994, and later moved to Peace Haven Retirement Home in Walnut. In 2006, she moved to Heritage House in Atlantic where she grew fond of the nurses and aides who cared for her, calling them “her girls.”
Marjorie was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Walnut, United Presbyterian Women, Walnut Genealogy Society, and served many years on the board of the Walnut Library.
Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Austin, her brother Glenn, daughter Evelyn Eblen, in-laws Harry and Josephine McDermott, and brothers-in-law Clarence McDermott, Robert McDermott, Herb McDermott and Richard McDermott.
Marjorie is survived by her daughters, Elaine McDermott of Kansas City, MO, and Kenner Baxter (Randy) of Marne, and by her son Jim McDermott (Bobbie) of Walnut. Also her son-in –law Gene Eblen of Walnut, grandchildren Aaron Eblen (Essence) of Pensacola, FL, Tony Eblen (Lindsey) of Treynor, Adam Eblen (Melissa) of Jacksonville, FL, Megan Andersen (Brian) of Omaha, Nellie Popp (Brian) of Omaha, Christina Baxter of Marne, and Brittney Baxter of Waterloo, as well as great grandchildren Dylan Eblen, Aubry Eblen, Emma Eblen, Evyn Eblen, Cohen Eblen, Kenner Eblen, Nora Andersen and Dasia Baxter. She also leaves behind her beloved sisters-in-law, many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Pauley Jones Funeral Homes is in charge of arrangements. Visitation will be Sunday, October 18, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church in Walnut, with the funeral on Monday, October 19, 10:00 a.m. at the church.
Thank-You
Special thanks go out in this November (Thanksgiving) Gleaner to all our Church volunteers:
Sunday School teachers Robyn Tooley & Teresa Griffith
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!
Pumpkin
Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff-- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside you to shine for all the world to see.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Ty Johnk for showing the Champion AOB Breeding Beef at Ak-Sar-Ben Youth Livestock Exposition.
December Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Ross & Jean Bornholdt, Craig & Linda Woltmann Communion Servers: Leo Rechtenbach-chm, Jean Bornholdt, Jim & Bobbi McDermott. November ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
November 1 –Mary Ellen Woltmann
November 8- Linda Woltmannh
November 15- Gloria Walter
Flu Shots
Don’t forget to stop in at the Walnut City Hall to get your flu shots Friday, November 6th from 9:00-11:00.The Shot is $25.00 and the Flu mist is $30.00.
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. The deadline for ordering is November 8th. Color choices are red, pink, white, or marble. You can choose a Wednesday, November 25th delivery date or Thursday, December 3rd (available for pick-up at the elementary winter concert.) Please make your checks out to Music Parents.
Wanted
People who are excited about Prayer!
MRVP Committee for Congregations is looking for individuals who are devoted to prayer and would be willing to serve on a prayer team to pray for revitalization, re-development, and new church development. If you are this person, contact Pastor David for more information.
Session Minutes
October 13, 2009
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on October 13, 2009 in the south Sunday School annex.
Those in attendance were Darlene Stuart, Gloria Myers, Val Sievers, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Bobbie McDermott, Robin Tooley, and Bonnie Holtz. Absent were Leo Rechtenbach and Dennis Jensen.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer. Scripture readings and our reflection were based on Psalms 22:6.
The minutes of the September meeting were read and approved.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as presented.
Pastor David reported that he would like to take a class called “Sharpening Your Skills: A Course in Pastoral Care.” It is coordinated by the Nebraska Medical Center Clinical Pastoral Education Unit. It was moved and 2nd to pay the $260 fee for this class. Motion carried Pastor David traveled a total of 339 miles and made many visitations.
Linda reported that she will be going to New Horizon church on October 27th for a review of our church records. She also read a letter from the MRVP Committee for Congregations asking for individual devoted to prayer who would be willing to serve on a prayer team to pray for revitalization, re-development and new church development.
Stewardship and Mission
It’s time for our stewardship campaign. Bonnie and Darlene will work on this. We also reviewed the Gleaner mailing list to see if any names could be eliminated to save some cost. Several ideas were mentioned to help save money. No decision made. Darlene reported that 36 people walked on the Crop Walk and a total of $2100 was raised.
Christian Education
Any discussion on our Christian educator’s Guide to Evaluating and Developing Curriculum was tabled again. Robin reported that 9 kids are attending Sunday School. She also said that she would like to have a Halloween party for our kids before they go UNICEFing. St. Pat’s is in charge of UNICEF. Gloria also reported that all the receiving blankets made by the Bible School kids are gone, so we need to have our kids make more, as we have several babies to be born this year.
Worship
Pastor David and Jim Tooley took communion to Judy Ferguson. She has requested to have communion each month. Four and five residents were served communion at Peace Haven. Elders Gloria Myers and Allan Sievers served the respective months.
Finance and Property
The furnace was not working so Feekes came and made repairs. We need to start thinking about the 2010 budget. A motion was made to look into having a church member take care of snow removal and mowing. It was 2nd and carried. Jim and Linda will look into this. It was also moved and 2nd to compensate Tom Liston for weed eating behind the church. We will give him two free tickets to the church dinner. Motion carried. Gloria reported that a refrigerator was purchased on Vic and Edna Nielsen’s sale for $225. It was moved and 2nd to take the money from the Memorial fund. Motion carried. Linda also reported that Chuck had put on a new door knob on the south annex and repaired the retaining wall and downspout in the back of the church. He also made recommendations for the round window on the front of the church. It was moved and 2nd to go ahead with the window repair with monies coming from the Memorial Fund. Motion carried. Chuck will have a detailed estimate for the next meeting.
New Business
It was approved to allow the Walt Siever’s family to use the church basement on November 14th from 11:30-4:00. November 10th will be the MRV Presbytery meeting at First Presbyterian Church in Shenandoah from 5-7. Pott. County End of Life Community Partnership is offering information to anyone interested. David received the 2010 minimum terms of call for MRV Presbytery. David has envelops available from Would Vision so individuals can donate each month to feed a child. Darlene showed us a laminated flyer that could be put in each pew telling members and visitors about our church. No action was taken.
The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting November 3rd at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Monday, September 28, 2009
October 2009 Gleaner
THE GLEANER
October 2009
Pastor’s Notes
Why are we here? That’s a question I have asked myself many times. The question I want to put before you to think about is, “Why is this church here? What is its purpose? What is God’s plan for his church?” Actually there are three questions but who’s counting?
This is the time of year when all churches begin to think about finances and the budget. Let’s not think about money but instead consider what it is that God is doing in the world and how can we join him in it. That, I think, is the real question we should all concern ourselves with.
When we go back to the book of Genesis we find that God created everything for his pleasure, including us. We are here for his pleasure. But I don’t think it ends there.
God through Moses gave his people laws to live by and Jesus boiled all of them down to two. He said we were to love God with our whole being and to love our neighbors as much as we love ourselves. That, my friends, is our reason for being. That’s why the church is here; that’s its purpose. I believe God’s plan for his church is to continue the work begun by Jesus, the apostles, and the disciples. And that work was to tell the world about God’s kingdom here on earth in the person of Jesus Christ.
Yes, it’s all about evangelism and mission and stewardship and making disciples of all nations, loving our neighbors enough to care whether they know about Jesus and his love for them. Now our love for them may not begin with our telling them about Jesus. It may begin by attending to their needs, whatever they may be.
Friends, I know that it’s hard to help others meet their basic needs when we know that they’re there because they may have made some choices in their lives that put them in the predicament they’re in at this particular time in their lives. It’s very hard not to judge. The fact is that nothing has changed since the time of Jesus. People made wrong choices then and they are still making wrong choices today. And I believe that Jesus told his disciples, and us, that we are to care for them.
That’s the reason this church is here. That’s the purpose and God’s plan for his church, to help the least and the lost, the poor and the lonely. And we are to love them as we love ourselves.
As you’re reading this you’re saying, “But times are tough and there’s just not enough money.” I agree, times are tough and money does seem to be tight but I think it’s more than that. As I said last month it’s about tithing our lives to God, dedicating everything we do to God. Giving up our old lives and living like the new people we profess to be as followers of Jesus. It’s not about the money.
It’s not easy but living the life set by Jesus’ example isn’t easy. If it was we wouldn’t be talking about mission, stewardship, and the like because the churches would be overflowing. Everyone would want to be a Christian.
We profess to be Christians. That means we believe in Jesus. We believe he died to forgive our sins. We believe that He rose again and before he ascended into heaven he stayed with his disciples for 40 days and taught them again how to love and care for those whom he called to be his, rich and poor, black and white, Jew and Greek, everyone part of God’s plan.
Friends, I ask you to prayerfully consider what it is that God is doing in this community and then decide how we can join him in his work. That is our mission. That is why we’re here.
God loves you and so do I,
Pastor David
Thank-You
Thank-you to Linda Ploen for leading the service September 20th all about the Wyoming mission trip. Thanks also to Jason and Heather Ploen for all their technical help. Also, thanks to the girls for sharing their memories.
Thanks to the pastor for polishing the communion service and replacing the tablecloths in the sanctuary.
Thanks to Linda Ploen for changing the alter flowers for the fall season.
New Addresses:
Vic and Edna Nielsen
300 Risen Son Blvd.
Apt 241
Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Phone # 712-256-2984
Mabel Stahl
1100 Brookridge Circle
Apt 1C
Atlantic, IA 50022
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to the Homecoming Royalty Court; Valerie Sievers, Josie Cable, Chris Guthrie and Jessica Helms.
Congratulations to Brittni Johnk for graduating from Jennie Edmundson School of Radiology. She graduated with top academic honors and also was awarded the Outstanding Clinical Student award.
Congratulations to Ty Johnk for winning Champion Charolais Composite breeding heifer at the 4-H show at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines.
CROP WALK
For the first time the CROP HUNGER WALK will be held in Walnut. Come join the walkers on October 11th at 1:00 p.m. at the Walnut City Park. The walk will be app. 4 miles long. Contact Darlene Stuart to get your sponsor sheet. Also, please bring canned food items for the Avoca Food Pantry.
Kid Joke
A wife invited some people to dinner.
At the table, she turned to their six-year-old daughter and said,
“Would you like to say the blessing?’
“I wouldn’t know what to say,” the girl replied.
“Just say what you hear Mommy say,” the wife answered.
The daughter bowed her head and said,
“Lord, why on earth did I invite all these people to dinner?”
November Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Leo & Jeanette Rechtenbach, Teri Abel & Shannon Griffith
Communion Servers: Bobbie McDermott-chm, Barb Eslick, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd. October ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
October 4-------Mabel Stahl
October 11------ Jeanette Rechtenbach
October 18 ------Bobbie McDermott
October 25 ------Janet Grush
Rev. Doug Orbaker, missionary from Nicaragua spoke to us on Sept 27th . The Avoca United Church joined us for fellowship and communion. Chuck and Linda Ploen welcomed him into their home to stay overnight and Charlotte Shepherd coordinated the coffee and sweets afterward.
October 2009
Pastor’s Notes
Why are we here? That’s a question I have asked myself many times. The question I want to put before you to think about is, “Why is this church here? What is its purpose? What is God’s plan for his church?” Actually there are three questions but who’s counting?
This is the time of year when all churches begin to think about finances and the budget. Let’s not think about money but instead consider what it is that God is doing in the world and how can we join him in it. That, I think, is the real question we should all concern ourselves with.
When we go back to the book of Genesis we find that God created everything for his pleasure, including us. We are here for his pleasure. But I don’t think it ends there.
God through Moses gave his people laws to live by and Jesus boiled all of them down to two. He said we were to love God with our whole being and to love our neighbors as much as we love ourselves. That, my friends, is our reason for being. That’s why the church is here; that’s its purpose. I believe God’s plan for his church is to continue the work begun by Jesus, the apostles, and the disciples. And that work was to tell the world about God’s kingdom here on earth in the person of Jesus Christ.
Yes, it’s all about evangelism and mission and stewardship and making disciples of all nations, loving our neighbors enough to care whether they know about Jesus and his love for them. Now our love for them may not begin with our telling them about Jesus. It may begin by attending to their needs, whatever they may be.
Friends, I know that it’s hard to help others meet their basic needs when we know that they’re there because they may have made some choices in their lives that put them in the predicament they’re in at this particular time in their lives. It’s very hard not to judge. The fact is that nothing has changed since the time of Jesus. People made wrong choices then and they are still making wrong choices today. And I believe that Jesus told his disciples, and us, that we are to care for them.
That’s the reason this church is here. That’s the purpose and God’s plan for his church, to help the least and the lost, the poor and the lonely. And we are to love them as we love ourselves.
As you’re reading this you’re saying, “But times are tough and there’s just not enough money.” I agree, times are tough and money does seem to be tight but I think it’s more than that. As I said last month it’s about tithing our lives to God, dedicating everything we do to God. Giving up our old lives and living like the new people we profess to be as followers of Jesus. It’s not about the money.
It’s not easy but living the life set by Jesus’ example isn’t easy. If it was we wouldn’t be talking about mission, stewardship, and the like because the churches would be overflowing. Everyone would want to be a Christian.
We profess to be Christians. That means we believe in Jesus. We believe he died to forgive our sins. We believe that He rose again and before he ascended into heaven he stayed with his disciples for 40 days and taught them again how to love and care for those whom he called to be his, rich and poor, black and white, Jew and Greek, everyone part of God’s plan.
Friends, I ask you to prayerfully consider what it is that God is doing in this community and then decide how we can join him in his work. That is our mission. That is why we’re here.
God loves you and so do I,
Pastor David
Thank-You
Thank-you to Linda Ploen for leading the service September 20th all about the Wyoming mission trip. Thanks also to Jason and Heather Ploen for all their technical help. Also, thanks to the girls for sharing their memories.
Thanks to the pastor for polishing the communion service and replacing the tablecloths in the sanctuary.
Thanks to Linda Ploen for changing the alter flowers for the fall season.
New Addresses:
Vic and Edna Nielsen
300 Risen Son Blvd.
Apt 241
Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Phone # 712-256-2984
Mabel Stahl
1100 Brookridge Circle
Apt 1C
Atlantic, IA 50022
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to the Homecoming Royalty Court; Valerie Sievers, Josie Cable, Chris Guthrie and Jessica Helms.
Congratulations to Brittni Johnk for graduating from Jennie Edmundson School of Radiology. She graduated with top academic honors and also was awarded the Outstanding Clinical Student award.
Congratulations to Ty Johnk for winning Champion Charolais Composite breeding heifer at the 4-H show at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines.
CROP WALK
For the first time the CROP HUNGER WALK will be held in Walnut. Come join the walkers on October 11th at 1:00 p.m. at the Walnut City Park. The walk will be app. 4 miles long. Contact Darlene Stuart to get your sponsor sheet. Also, please bring canned food items for the Avoca Food Pantry.
Kid Joke
A wife invited some people to dinner.
At the table, she turned to their six-year-old daughter and said,
“Would you like to say the blessing?’
“I wouldn’t know what to say,” the girl replied.
“Just say what you hear Mommy say,” the wife answered.
The daughter bowed her head and said,
“Lord, why on earth did I invite all these people to dinner?”
November Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Leo & Jeanette Rechtenbach, Teri Abel & Shannon Griffith
Communion Servers: Bobbie McDermott-chm, Barb Eslick, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd. October ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
October 4-------Mabel Stahl
October 11------ Jeanette Rechtenbach
October 18 ------Bobbie McDermott
October 25 ------Janet Grush
Rev. Doug Orbaker, missionary from Nicaragua spoke to us on Sept 27th . The Avoca United Church joined us for fellowship and communion. Chuck and Linda Ploen welcomed him into their home to stay overnight and Charlotte Shepherd coordinated the coffee and sweets afterward.
Simply Voices
Simply voice is a group of 10 women from the Mount Ayr United Methodist Church who will be celebrating their 6th year of singing together in October. October 11th they will be singing our worship service at 9 a.m.
Their style of music is both contemporary and traditional. The group was asked to perform 3 years in a row at the Iowa State Fair for the ecumenical church service in Pioneer Hall. They have sang in 3 different events for the Iowa Grand Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star, and sang for installation of a local woman in the Rebekah Lodge. They have also performed for various community events and surrounding area worship services and have sang for Easter and Christmas concerts for their local community for the past 5 years. They are passionate about their ministry and have touched many who have heard their "ministry through song."
We hope you have a chance to come and hear them sings. I think you will enjoy hearing them. Pastor David's sister, June, is a member of this group.
Bank Account
I have just deposited
Love and Blessings
Into your bank account
And the best part is that
It will cost you nothing
I ask that you use it in abundance
*Your pin number is J-E-S-U-S
*Important Notice*
If you lose your pin number you lose everything.
Make a deposit in someone else’s account.
May your troubles be less
Your blessings be more
And nothing but happiness
Come through your door.
Session Minutes
September 8, 2009
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on September 8th, 2009 in the south Sunday School annex.
Those in attendance were: Gloria Myers, Valerie Sievers, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Bobbie McDermott, and Bonnie Holtz. Those absent were: Darlene Sstuart, Leo Rechtencach, Dennis Jensen and Robin Tooley.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with several readings from the book of James. He also had a reflection on justice, the poor and homeless. We did not have a meeting in August because of the funeral visitation of Bill League.
The minutes of the July meeting were approved as read.
The Treasurer’s report for July and August was read and approved.
The pastor’s report was approved as given. Pastor David traveled 109 miles in July and 65 miles in August. He served 9 residents of Peace Haven communion, visited many members and traveled with the mission group. Pastor David also asked for vacation on the weeks of September 20th, October 4th, and October 25. It was moved and 2nd to allow this. Motion carried. The mission trip girls will do the service on Sept. 20th and Katherine Bates-Heyne on the 4th and 25th of October.
There was no clerk’s report. Deaths recorded were William F. Sievers who died July 28th, 2009 and was buried at Graceland Cemetery in Avoca, Iowa, and William Cleveland League who died August 7th, 2009. His burial was at Layton Twp. Cemetery in Walnut, Iowa. There were no new members or membership transfers.
Stewardship and Mission
David reported that the mission trip to Shell, Wyoming went well. The girls worked hard and we all had a great time. Doug Orbaker, delegations Coordinator for the Council of Evangelical Churches in Nicaraugua will be here for a joint worship service between First Presbyterian and United Church of Avoca on September 27th at 9 a.m. It was moved and seconded to grant approval to serve communion that Sunday. Motion carried. We will not have communion on October 4th. Linda Ploen reported on the Open Door Mission Walk-A-Thon on Sept. 20th. We hope to have a good group from our church going. We will meet here at the church at 12:00 and travel together so we can walk as a group.
Christian Education
Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage #6 will be October 15-18, 2009. Joyce Serenil is the rector. Gloria has ordered Sunday School material, and also received a scholarship application from Kelsi Helms. She will be attending Upper Iowa. David also mentioned again that we need to get together and look over the Christian Educator’s Guide to Evaluating and Developing Curriculum to see what our Christian Education needs are. He would like to focus on adult education.
Worship
Communion was served to 4 residents on August 2nd and 5 residents on September 6th at Peace Haven Home. Gloria Myers and Allan Sievers each served the respective months. There will be no communion on October 4th since we will serve it on September 27th instead.
Finance and Property
David asked again about the purchase of software from Servant PC Resources Inc. The cost is $699. He is still waiting for feed -back on the need and possible purchase. It would help keep track of pledges, membership and the interests of our members. It was mentioned that to obtain this information we could possibly put a “gifts assessment” sheet in the Gleaner to find out what our members strengths, interests and gifts are. No action was taken. There was also no action taken on the Presbyterian Foundation Investments.
New Business
Our Memorial Fund balance is $7,533.48 at last report. Several ideas were brought up for using these funds: a projector for the church, new pew Bibles so they are all alike, new tables for the Antique Walk (the heavy old ones will be disposed of), a different refrigerator, and perhaps some equipment for the Food Pantry. These were just some thoughts. No action taken.
Jim McDermott and Terri Abel then reported on the Crop Hunger Walk which will be in Walnut this year. It will be on October 11th at 1:00. They asked for at least 8 walkers from our church. Plans are going well for the 5 mile walk. Anyone interested in walking or pledging may talk to Jim or Terri, or a session member.
The meeting was closed with the Lord Prayer.
The next meeting will be on October 13th at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
Sunday, August 23, 2009
September Gleaner 2009
Pastor’s Notes
At the August Presbytery meeting at Camp Calvin Crest in Fremont, NE Rev. Dr. Laura Mendenhall had been invited to speak to us on stewardship. But it wasn’t what you would have expected it to be, about money. Her message for us was titled, “Do Not Be Afraid: Stewardship in Church and Life.”
She began by telling us that it’s not about the money even in these times of financial crisis in our nation and in the world. Lack of money isn’t the reason our churches have problems with their budgets. Nope, the root of the problem goes deeper than that. What do you think it is?
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people to give to God and the church? We all suffer from the same old paradigms. The problem is people aren’t digging deep enough in their pockets. Friends, that’s not the problem.
Dr. Mendenhall then went on to give her personal testimony. Now you would think that someone who had been the president of Columbia Theological Seminary wouldn’t have any problem sharing her testimony with us. But think about it. When we give our testimony we share our weaknesses and fears as well as what God has been doing in our lives and that’s what she did.
You all can probably understand and relate to this statement, “It’s harder to give the tithe of our lives to God than it is to give our tithe of money to God.” Now I may not have remembered her words exactly but the gist of it is that it’s much harder to dedicate our lives to God’s service that it is to tithe from our excess.
But, if we tithe our lives completely to God then giving of our finances is easy. The other point I took away from Rev. Dr. Laura’s message was, “When you make peace with how much is enough for you then it’s easy to live with just enough.”
She learned growing up that it’s better to travel lightly through life so you kids don’t have to sort through our accumulation of treasures when we’re gone. Her and her husband learned this when they moved from Decatur, GA to Austin, TX and they decided that they didn’t need the 1,000 books she had in her office library because, did you know, public libraries carry these same books and you don’t have to own them. What a lesson for all of us, live simply with just enough and trust God to provide.
Tithing keeps us dependent on God’s grace; it keeps us leaning on God. And you all thought it was just about the money. Tithing begins with giving our hearts and lives to God. Stewardship is more that just giving money.
Friends, everything we have been blessed with is from God and to him we should give our blessing. Everything we have isn’t ours but belongs to God, the One who gave them to us and that includes our families. Just as Elkanah and Hannah dedicated their son, Samuel, to God so we should think about the sons and daughters God has given to us. Have we given them to God?
It’s not an easy thing to do, give our lives and our families to God to use as he sees fit, but that’s stewardship, that’s tithing.
The issues the world and God’s churches face aren’t about a lack of resources. We all have all we need to make an offering to God. We shouldn’t waste time making up our minds. God only gives us so many days here.
Remember as Dr. Laura said, “The simplest and most profound thing we can do is share our own story with others.” If we make ourselves vulnerable to one another then God uses us to continue his work in the world.” Friends, life is too short to put these things off.
God loves you and so do I,
Pastor David
In Memoriam
William Frederick Sievers
Sept. 26, 1911-July 28, 2009
William Frederick Sievers, son of William P. and Anna (Lamp) Sievers, was born at home on Sept, 26, 1911 in Minden, Iowa. He was the first of five children. In 1912, he and his mother rode a railcar to Briggsdale, Colorado, where his grandfather had homesteaded. In his youth, Bill loved to work on the farm and hunt rabbits. He left school after the eighth grade to help his father. He taught himself to play the piano and accordion, and would often play at dances in the prairie towns.
In 1934, he went to work for Hormel in Austen, Minnesota. He later joined the National Guard, and due to a deaf ear, he remained in the states during WWII and became a mess sergeant, cooking and baking for 440 men.
On December 13, 1941, Bill married June Dock in Austin, Minnesota. Three daughters were born to this union. They resided in Austin until 1944, when they moved to Minneapolis where Bill drove a gasoline transport. In 1950, they moved to La Crosse, Wisconsin and in 1951, returned to Minneapolis. In 1952, Bill moved his family to Briggsdale to join his brother Jim and father in the farming operation. In 1954, the family moved south of Walnut. June passed away in 1966. In 1971 , Bill married Loree Oman. He retired from farming in 1975 and moved to Cozad, Nebraska where he built his own home on a lake so that he could enjoy one of his favorite pastimes, fishing. Loree passed away in 2001. In 2002, at the age of 91, Bill moved back home to Walnut.
Bill had many hobbies and interest. He loved farming and gardening. At 93, his doctor told him if he drank enough tomato juice, he would live forever. So…he canned 92 quarts. At 97, he thought if he ate an apple a day, it would keep the doctor away. So…he froze 85 bags of apples, and…planted an apple tree. His apple pies were the best. He always wished he was back on the farm.
He loved all kinds of music and dancing, but especially Polka. He had a passion for photography and developing his own pictures. Bill was a great artist and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren his skills. He especially loved to draw cartoons.
He was always tinkering. He could fix everything, and everything he did, he did it well. Bill was a compassionate man with a wonderful sense of humor. From beginning to end, he was a joy to be around. He was deeply loved by his family. His sister Peg said, “If the whole world was like Bill, it would be a wonderful place”.
With his family at his bedside, Bill went Home on July 28, 2009. In addition to his parents and both wives, Bill was preceded in death by his brothers, Raymond and Carl. He is survived by his children, Monica Joyce of Sidney, Nebraska; Susie Sievers and special friend Mark Petersen of Avoca; and Margo (Doug) Matthies of Walnut; 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, his sister Margaret “Peggy” Lippold of Omaha and brother Jim of Briggsdale, Colorado; many nieces and nephews; step-children Bob and Mary Oman of Holdredge, Nebraska; Dick and Sharon Oman of Omaha, Nebraska; Sheryl and Brian Jones of Broomfield , Colorado; Dave and Maureen Oman of Grand Island, Nebraska; and 16 step-grandchildren 14 step-great-grandchildren, 1 step-great-great-grandchild, and many friends.
In Memoriam
William Cleveland League, Jr.
January 9, 1921-August 7, 2009
William “Bill” Cleveland League, Jr., the son of William Cleveland and Maude Pearl (Reddington) League, Sr., was born on January 8, 1921, in Walnut, Iowa. After graduation from Walnut High School in 1938, Bill worked in the family dray business. In 1943, he joined the United States Army and was shipped to England in 1944. On August 21, 1945, Bill married Marian Pattie Taylor at St. Anne’s Church in Bowden Hill, England. After Bill’s discharge from the service in April 1946, he and Marian moved to Walnut, where they lived until entering the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa, in May 2007. Marian died on March 17, 2009 in Avoca.
Bill Was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Walnut, Iowa, where he served as a trustee and elder, and sang in the choir. He was a member of the AMVEST Post 45 in Walnut, and a past member of the Walnut Fire Department. Bill had the honor of serving on the Walnut City Council for eight years. Hen he was younger, he liked to spend time hunting and fishing.
William C. League, Jr., died on Thursday, August 7, 2009, at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa, having reached the age of 88 years, 6 months, and 30 days.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marian League; on sister and brother-in-law, Clara May and Gordon Tooley; and one brother, Jerry League. He is survived by one son, Ted League and his wife, Kathy, of New Braunfels, Texas; one sister, Adele Pedersen of Walnut, Iowa; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Thank-You
- To everyone that helped make our Summer Youth Trips so successful.
- To Diane Book and Marge Kobs for filling in for Connie Jensen on piano/organ.
Shell, Wyoming
Mission Trip
The first week of August Chuck & Linda Ploen, Pastor David & Linda Krueger took seven teen-age girls to Shell, Wyoming (at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains) to work on a new addition to the Presbyterian Church there. Jason, Heather & Zach Ploen joined them, bringing a truck full of tools.
The girls that went were, Karley and Jessica Helms, Josie Cable, Valerie and Lauren Sievers, Alyssa Becerra, and Emily Mitchell.
Chuck Ploen’s excitement over the trip and Linda Ploen’s organization and planning were instrumental in making it such a success.
Along with the work there were fun times; driving through the Big Horn Mountains, attending the Cody, Wyoming rodeo and spending a day in Yellowstone National Park. The people from the Church/Community welcomed them into their homes to stay, had a pot luck supper for them, held a BBQ for them at the preacher’s house and many friendships were made.
The girls worked so well together and remained cheerful throughout the work and the 2400 miles traveled.
Several things stand out to me (Linda Krueger) as being especially meaningful. The girls wrote us (and Ploen’s) a special note at the first motel and slipped it under our door.
At the Pot Luck Supper Jerry Ewen, a member of the church and contractor for the addition, stood up to talk and told the girls, “You girls are the answer to our prayers”. The congregation there had prayed and prayed for someone to come and help them. There church had no kitchen, no bathroom (they had an outhouse behind the church) and no handicap access. Another special moment for me was Sunday during their church service. Augie Garcia, from their church, played his guitar and sang,
“Why Me Lord?” by Kris Kristofferson.
“Why me Lord, what have I ever done
To deserve even one,
Of the pleasures I’ve known.
Tell me Lord, What did I ever do,
That was worth love FROM you,
Or the kindness you’ve shown.
Lord help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it so,
Help me Jesus, I know what I am.
Now that I know, that I’ve needed you so,
Help me Jesus, my soul’s in your hand.
Tell me Lord, if you think there’s a way,
That I can repay, all I’ve taken from you.
Maybe Lord, I can show someone else,
What I’ve been through myself,
On my way back to you.
Lord help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it so,
Help me Jesus, I know what I am.
Now that I know, that I’ve needed you so,
Help me Jesus, my soul’s in your hand.”
Special people that we met were our host families:
Richard and Judy Burton
Richard and Darla Saam
Jeff and Karen Grant
Merle and Kitty Gipson
Gary and Rev. Becky Anderson
Of special note also were Kathy Ewen that led the church (and our girls) in song and the famous artist Charlene Collingwood who is a member of the church.
Everyone there was so kind and generous (there are good cooks in Wyoming!!) and I’m sure that helped make the girls (and adults) feel welcome. I think we all left feeling not only that we had done a service to a church in need but also received the gift of hospitality. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The only gift is a portion of thyself.”
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to our Pottawattamie County Fair Winners:
---to Ty Johnk on his Champion Heifers and Steers
---to Hunter Nielsen on his Champion Goats and Sheep
---to Bailey Nielsen on her Champion Sheep and Poster
Just A Little Taste of Heaven
By Shelly Storey
I love to go camping. Sitting by the fire, watching the smoke rise and curl heavenward, relaxing with dirt under my fingernails and no real agenda…aah, that really does it for me. I may have even said once or twice, “This is Heavenly!” We all have places where we have felt like that, where the peace and beauty of the setting seems to wash the cares of life away for a time. Some may say it is at the beach, or on a mountainside, while gazing at a sunset, or even on a lawnmower. Our little “tastes of Heaven” are the beautiful places that bring us joy and peace of soul. As humans, we strive to seek out the beauty of this world and wonder, is that what heaven will be like??
I, however, have truly found a taste of heaven on this earth, and I call it Pilgrimage. This time the camp was fairly brown and overcast, so to call it “beautiful” would be stretching the truth a bit. This time I got very little sleep, so to call it physically “relaxing” would be a lie. This time I served in more that one capacity, so to claim that I had no real agenda or demands on my time would be wrong.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col. 2:3). Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming (Col. 2:5-6). “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying. ‘Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” (Rev. 21:3-5a)
In Pilgrimage, more that any other place before or to come, I have truly found that little piece of Heaven. It is a place where no one fights, no one lusts, no one condemns, no one is judged, no one slanders, and no one has any other gods. A place where everyone is accepted as God’s workmanship. Where everyone is loved. Where everyone can give praise and receive grace. A place where the presence of the Lord is literally tangible, and where His community is blessed. The physical beauty of the place—or of the participants, for that matter—does no affect the atmosphere of Pilgrimage. It is simply God’s community, designed by feeble humans, knit together by Him, for His glory, and at that place, even if for only three days, the “things of the world” pass away.
My mind cannot conceive the physical beauty of heaven (it says so in 1st Corinthians 2:9), and therefore my desperately human attempts to compare it to campfire smoke, the ocean surf, the orange sunset, the mountain air, or the smell of cut grass are well, desperately HUMAN. My mind cannot conceive it. But we are assured in scripture that in Heaven the old will have passed away, and with it all the heartache of this world.
Until Pilgrimage, that is something I could not conceive of either. Now I can. To Him be all the glory.
--Contact Pastor David if you would like to find out more and/or would like to attend the next Pilgrimage October 15-18
October Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Jeff & Pam Neilsen, Linda Sieck
Communion Servers: Linda Ploen – chm, George Mertz, Linda Sieck, Pam Nielsen. September ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
September 6 -------Avis Mortensen
September 13------ Paula Griffith
September 20 ------Julie Nash
September 27 ------Dixie Schirm
Walking, walking, walking…
Open Door Mission is having a walk-a-thon September 20th from 1-5pm. Participants
receive a T-shirt, water bottle, and soup/bread. The soup and bread will be prepared especially
for this event by area chefs. You can tour the Open Door Mission also. There will be a shuttle
back to the start or you can walk. The walk will be from the Gallup University parking lot (by
Quest Center) to the Open Door Mission. Adults - $19.20 (provides 10 meals at the mission) or for
Children 8 and under - $9.60 (provides 5 meals at the mission.
CROP WALK – The annual Crop Walk will be held in Walnut this year for the first time.
It will be on October 11 so mark your calendars now!
NEIGHBORS WALKING TOGETHER TO COMBAT WORLD HUNGER
MOP Wants YOU!
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) is looking for compassionate and caring volunteers for their organization. As a “Mopppet” you will be engaged in providing a safe, Christian learning
environment for children, ages birth-6years, during the MOPS meetings. This is a great chance for Moms to get some adult time and for the kids to explore and learn about interaction and cooperation. The Council Bluffs Chapter of MOPS meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, Sept. 16-May 6th. The time is 9:30-11:30. The location is Living Hope Community Church. It is out Hwy. 92, (east of CB).
If you are interested, please call Living Hope Comm. Church @ 712-323-3227, leave message
for Cindy, Moppets coordinator.
Sunday September 27, 2009
We have invited Doug Orbaker, a missionary from Nicaragua, to speak to us. We will worship and hear about Doug’s experience in Sough America sharing the gospel. The United Church of Avoca will be joining us for our 9:00 AM worship on Sept, 27th.
Ordinary Things
Our oldest son and his family (wife & four kids) returned from their vacation to the SW United States, over 3600 miles. I asked Sadie (5 years old) what was her favorite memory. She said, “Albuquerque” just because she likes to say the word. Then she thought and said, “My very, VERY favorite was when it was raining real hard and we had to run to the van and mommy held my hand and we laughed and laughed and laughed”.
To think they traveled 3600 miles, saw the Grand Canyon, went to water parks, rode burros etc, etc, and her favorite memory was running in the rain, holding mommy’s hand and laughing.
Linda Krueger
At the August Presbytery meeting at Camp Calvin Crest in Fremont, NE Rev. Dr. Laura Mendenhall had been invited to speak to us on stewardship. But it wasn’t what you would have expected it to be, about money. Her message for us was titled, “Do Not Be Afraid: Stewardship in Church and Life.”
She began by telling us that it’s not about the money even in these times of financial crisis in our nation and in the world. Lack of money isn’t the reason our churches have problems with their budgets. Nope, the root of the problem goes deeper than that. What do you think it is?
What do you think is the most difficult thing for people to give to God and the church? We all suffer from the same old paradigms. The problem is people aren’t digging deep enough in their pockets. Friends, that’s not the problem.
Dr. Mendenhall then went on to give her personal testimony. Now you would think that someone who had been the president of Columbia Theological Seminary wouldn’t have any problem sharing her testimony with us. But think about it. When we give our testimony we share our weaknesses and fears as well as what God has been doing in our lives and that’s what she did.
You all can probably understand and relate to this statement, “It’s harder to give the tithe of our lives to God than it is to give our tithe of money to God.” Now I may not have remembered her words exactly but the gist of it is that it’s much harder to dedicate our lives to God’s service that it is to tithe from our excess.
But, if we tithe our lives completely to God then giving of our finances is easy. The other point I took away from Rev. Dr. Laura’s message was, “When you make peace with how much is enough for you then it’s easy to live with just enough.”
She learned growing up that it’s better to travel lightly through life so you kids don’t have to sort through our accumulation of treasures when we’re gone. Her and her husband learned this when they moved from Decatur, GA to Austin, TX and they decided that they didn’t need the 1,000 books she had in her office library because, did you know, public libraries carry these same books and you don’t have to own them. What a lesson for all of us, live simply with just enough and trust God to provide.
Tithing keeps us dependent on God’s grace; it keeps us leaning on God. And you all thought it was just about the money. Tithing begins with giving our hearts and lives to God. Stewardship is more that just giving money.
Friends, everything we have been blessed with is from God and to him we should give our blessing. Everything we have isn’t ours but belongs to God, the One who gave them to us and that includes our families. Just as Elkanah and Hannah dedicated their son, Samuel, to God so we should think about the sons and daughters God has given to us. Have we given them to God?
It’s not an easy thing to do, give our lives and our families to God to use as he sees fit, but that’s stewardship, that’s tithing.
The issues the world and God’s churches face aren’t about a lack of resources. We all have all we need to make an offering to God. We shouldn’t waste time making up our minds. God only gives us so many days here.
Remember as Dr. Laura said, “The simplest and most profound thing we can do is share our own story with others.” If we make ourselves vulnerable to one another then God uses us to continue his work in the world.” Friends, life is too short to put these things off.
God loves you and so do I,
Pastor David
In Memoriam
William Frederick Sievers
Sept. 26, 1911-July 28, 2009
William Frederick Sievers, son of William P. and Anna (Lamp) Sievers, was born at home on Sept, 26, 1911 in Minden, Iowa. He was the first of five children. In 1912, he and his mother rode a railcar to Briggsdale, Colorado, where his grandfather had homesteaded. In his youth, Bill loved to work on the farm and hunt rabbits. He left school after the eighth grade to help his father. He taught himself to play the piano and accordion, and would often play at dances in the prairie towns.
In 1934, he went to work for Hormel in Austen, Minnesota. He later joined the National Guard, and due to a deaf ear, he remained in the states during WWII and became a mess sergeant, cooking and baking for 440 men.
On December 13, 1941, Bill married June Dock in Austin, Minnesota. Three daughters were born to this union. They resided in Austin until 1944, when they moved to Minneapolis where Bill drove a gasoline transport. In 1950, they moved to La Crosse, Wisconsin and in 1951, returned to Minneapolis. In 1952, Bill moved his family to Briggsdale to join his brother Jim and father in the farming operation. In 1954, the family moved south of Walnut. June passed away in 1966. In 1971 , Bill married Loree Oman. He retired from farming in 1975 and moved to Cozad, Nebraska where he built his own home on a lake so that he could enjoy one of his favorite pastimes, fishing. Loree passed away in 2001. In 2002, at the age of 91, Bill moved back home to Walnut.
Bill had many hobbies and interest. He loved farming and gardening. At 93, his doctor told him if he drank enough tomato juice, he would live forever. So…he canned 92 quarts. At 97, he thought if he ate an apple a day, it would keep the doctor away. So…he froze 85 bags of apples, and…planted an apple tree. His apple pies were the best. He always wished he was back on the farm.
He loved all kinds of music and dancing, but especially Polka. He had a passion for photography and developing his own pictures. Bill was a great artist and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren his skills. He especially loved to draw cartoons.
He was always tinkering. He could fix everything, and everything he did, he did it well. Bill was a compassionate man with a wonderful sense of humor. From beginning to end, he was a joy to be around. He was deeply loved by his family. His sister Peg said, “If the whole world was like Bill, it would be a wonderful place”.
With his family at his bedside, Bill went Home on July 28, 2009. In addition to his parents and both wives, Bill was preceded in death by his brothers, Raymond and Carl. He is survived by his children, Monica Joyce of Sidney, Nebraska; Susie Sievers and special friend Mark Petersen of Avoca; and Margo (Doug) Matthies of Walnut; 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, his sister Margaret “Peggy” Lippold of Omaha and brother Jim of Briggsdale, Colorado; many nieces and nephews; step-children Bob and Mary Oman of Holdredge, Nebraska; Dick and Sharon Oman of Omaha, Nebraska; Sheryl and Brian Jones of Broomfield , Colorado; Dave and Maureen Oman of Grand Island, Nebraska; and 16 step-grandchildren 14 step-great-grandchildren, 1 step-great-great-grandchild, and many friends.
In Memoriam
William Cleveland League, Jr.
January 9, 1921-August 7, 2009
William “Bill” Cleveland League, Jr., the son of William Cleveland and Maude Pearl (Reddington) League, Sr., was born on January 8, 1921, in Walnut, Iowa. After graduation from Walnut High School in 1938, Bill worked in the family dray business. In 1943, he joined the United States Army and was shipped to England in 1944. On August 21, 1945, Bill married Marian Pattie Taylor at St. Anne’s Church in Bowden Hill, England. After Bill’s discharge from the service in April 1946, he and Marian moved to Walnut, where they lived until entering the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa, in May 2007. Marian died on March 17, 2009 in Avoca.
Bill Was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Walnut, Iowa, where he served as a trustee and elder, and sang in the choir. He was a member of the AMVEST Post 45 in Walnut, and a past member of the Walnut Fire Department. Bill had the honor of serving on the Walnut City Council for eight years. Hen he was younger, he liked to spend time hunting and fishing.
William C. League, Jr., died on Thursday, August 7, 2009, at the Avoca Nursing and Rehab Center in Avoca, Iowa, having reached the age of 88 years, 6 months, and 30 days.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marian League; on sister and brother-in-law, Clara May and Gordon Tooley; and one brother, Jerry League. He is survived by one son, Ted League and his wife, Kathy, of New Braunfels, Texas; one sister, Adele Pedersen of Walnut, Iowa; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Thank-You
- To everyone that helped make our Summer Youth Trips so successful.
- To Diane Book and Marge Kobs for filling in for Connie Jensen on piano/organ.
Shell, Wyoming
Mission Trip
The first week of August Chuck & Linda Ploen, Pastor David & Linda Krueger took seven teen-age girls to Shell, Wyoming (at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains) to work on a new addition to the Presbyterian Church there. Jason, Heather & Zach Ploen joined them, bringing a truck full of tools.
The girls that went were, Karley and Jessica Helms, Josie Cable, Valerie and Lauren Sievers, Alyssa Becerra, and Emily Mitchell.
Chuck Ploen’s excitement over the trip and Linda Ploen’s organization and planning were instrumental in making it such a success.
Along with the work there were fun times; driving through the Big Horn Mountains, attending the Cody, Wyoming rodeo and spending a day in Yellowstone National Park. The people from the Church/Community welcomed them into their homes to stay, had a pot luck supper for them, held a BBQ for them at the preacher’s house and many friendships were made.
The girls worked so well together and remained cheerful throughout the work and the 2400 miles traveled.
Several things stand out to me (Linda Krueger) as being especially meaningful. The girls wrote us (and Ploen’s) a special note at the first motel and slipped it under our door.
At the Pot Luck Supper Jerry Ewen, a member of the church and contractor for the addition, stood up to talk and told the girls, “You girls are the answer to our prayers”. The congregation there had prayed and prayed for someone to come and help them. There church had no kitchen, no bathroom (they had an outhouse behind the church) and no handicap access. Another special moment for me was Sunday during their church service. Augie Garcia, from their church, played his guitar and sang,
“Why Me Lord?” by Kris Kristofferson.
“Why me Lord, what have I ever done
To deserve even one,
Of the pleasures I’ve known.
Tell me Lord, What did I ever do,
That was worth love FROM you,
Or the kindness you’ve shown.
Lord help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it so,
Help me Jesus, I know what I am.
Now that I know, that I’ve needed you so,
Help me Jesus, my soul’s in your hand.
Tell me Lord, if you think there’s a way,
That I can repay, all I’ve taken from you.
Maybe Lord, I can show someone else,
What I’ve been through myself,
On my way back to you.
Lord help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it so,
Help me Jesus, I know what I am.
Now that I know, that I’ve needed you so,
Help me Jesus, my soul’s in your hand.”
Special people that we met were our host families:
Richard and Judy Burton
Richard and Darla Saam
Jeff and Karen Grant
Merle and Kitty Gipson
Gary and Rev. Becky Anderson
Of special note also were Kathy Ewen that led the church (and our girls) in song and the famous artist Charlene Collingwood who is a member of the church.
Everyone there was so kind and generous (there are good cooks in Wyoming!!) and I’m sure that helped make the girls (and adults) feel welcome. I think we all left feeling not only that we had done a service to a church in need but also received the gift of hospitality. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The only gift is a portion of thyself.”
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to our Pottawattamie County Fair Winners:
---to Ty Johnk on his Champion Heifers and Steers
---to Hunter Nielsen on his Champion Goats and Sheep
---to Bailey Nielsen on her Champion Sheep and Poster
Just A Little Taste of Heaven
By Shelly Storey
I love to go camping. Sitting by the fire, watching the smoke rise and curl heavenward, relaxing with dirt under my fingernails and no real agenda…aah, that really does it for me. I may have even said once or twice, “This is Heavenly!” We all have places where we have felt like that, where the peace and beauty of the setting seems to wash the cares of life away for a time. Some may say it is at the beach, or on a mountainside, while gazing at a sunset, or even on a lawnmower. Our little “tastes of Heaven” are the beautiful places that bring us joy and peace of soul. As humans, we strive to seek out the beauty of this world and wonder, is that what heaven will be like??
I, however, have truly found a taste of heaven on this earth, and I call it Pilgrimage. This time the camp was fairly brown and overcast, so to call it “beautiful” would be stretching the truth a bit. This time I got very little sleep, so to call it physically “relaxing” would be a lie. This time I served in more that one capacity, so to claim that I had no real agenda or demands on my time would be wrong.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col. 2:3). Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming (Col. 2:5-6). “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying. ‘Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” (Rev. 21:3-5a)
In Pilgrimage, more that any other place before or to come, I have truly found that little piece of Heaven. It is a place where no one fights, no one lusts, no one condemns, no one is judged, no one slanders, and no one has any other gods. A place where everyone is accepted as God’s workmanship. Where everyone is loved. Where everyone can give praise and receive grace. A place where the presence of the Lord is literally tangible, and where His community is blessed. The physical beauty of the place—or of the participants, for that matter—does no affect the atmosphere of Pilgrimage. It is simply God’s community, designed by feeble humans, knit together by Him, for His glory, and at that place, even if for only three days, the “things of the world” pass away.
My mind cannot conceive the physical beauty of heaven (it says so in 1st Corinthians 2:9), and therefore my desperately human attempts to compare it to campfire smoke, the ocean surf, the orange sunset, the mountain air, or the smell of cut grass are well, desperately HUMAN. My mind cannot conceive it. But we are assured in scripture that in Heaven the old will have passed away, and with it all the heartache of this world.
Until Pilgrimage, that is something I could not conceive of either. Now I can. To Him be all the glory.
--Contact Pastor David if you would like to find out more and/or would like to attend the next Pilgrimage October 15-18
October Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Jeff & Pam Neilsen, Linda Sieck
Communion Servers: Linda Ploen – chm, George Mertz, Linda Sieck, Pam Nielsen. September ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
September 6 -------Avis Mortensen
September 13------ Paula Griffith
September 20 ------Julie Nash
September 27 ------Dixie Schirm
Walking, walking, walking…
Open Door Mission is having a walk-a-thon September 20th from 1-5pm. Participants
receive a T-shirt, water bottle, and soup/bread. The soup and bread will be prepared especially
for this event by area chefs. You can tour the Open Door Mission also. There will be a shuttle
back to the start or you can walk. The walk will be from the Gallup University parking lot (by
Quest Center) to the Open Door Mission. Adults - $19.20 (provides 10 meals at the mission) or for
Children 8 and under - $9.60 (provides 5 meals at the mission.
CROP WALK – The annual Crop Walk will be held in Walnut this year for the first time.
It will be on October 11 so mark your calendars now!
NEIGHBORS WALKING TOGETHER TO COMBAT WORLD HUNGER
MOP Wants YOU!
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) is looking for compassionate and caring volunteers for their organization. As a “Mopppet” you will be engaged in providing a safe, Christian learning
environment for children, ages birth-6years, during the MOPS meetings. This is a great chance for Moms to get some adult time and for the kids to explore and learn about interaction and cooperation. The Council Bluffs Chapter of MOPS meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, Sept. 16-May 6th. The time is 9:30-11:30. The location is Living Hope Community Church. It is out Hwy. 92, (east of CB).
If you are interested, please call Living Hope Comm. Church @ 712-323-3227, leave message
for Cindy, Moppets coordinator.
Sunday September 27, 2009
We have invited Doug Orbaker, a missionary from Nicaragua, to speak to us. We will worship and hear about Doug’s experience in Sough America sharing the gospel. The United Church of Avoca will be joining us for our 9:00 AM worship on Sept, 27th.
Ordinary Things
Our oldest son and his family (wife & four kids) returned from their vacation to the SW United States, over 3600 miles. I asked Sadie (5 years old) what was her favorite memory. She said, “Albuquerque” just because she likes to say the word. Then she thought and said, “My very, VERY favorite was when it was raining real hard and we had to run to the van and mommy held my hand and we laughed and laughed and laughed”.
To think they traveled 3600 miles, saw the Grand Canyon, went to water parks, rode burros etc, etc, and her favorite memory was running in the rain, holding mommy’s hand and laughing.
Linda Krueger
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
August Gleaner
THE GLEANER
First Presbyterian Church (USA) Walnut, Iowa 51577
Volume 40 Number 8 August 2009
First Presbyterian Church Church Phone: 712-784-3953
Box 707 Pastor David’s home phone: 712-784-2204
Walnut, IA 51577 Pastor David’s cell: 402-936-0153
Pastor’s Notes
Disciples of Christ
In January I began asking the session to give prayerful consideration to what God was telling them what the mission was for His churches in Walnut. Each month I would phrase the question just a little bit differently, but the thought still meant the same thing, “What is God up to in this community? Where is God already at work and where would He like us to jump in?”
The Message for all us last Sunday, July 26th, was what gift God has blessed each of us with and how is it possible for Him to use our 5 loaves and 2 fish to feed His children. It’s my belief that God has blessed all of us with gifts, some of which we don’t see as gifts that can be used to further God’s kingdom here on earth.
Friends, that’s why it’s so vitally important for us to spend time with God each day reading and praying His Word. Time with God is never a waste of time. Time spent with God, time spent listening to Him is one of the ways we can discern how He is calling us to use these gifts.
We may not believe that our talents could ever be used to help some one else experience the love of God through Jesus but remember what Paul told the Ephesians, “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams (The Message, Ephesians 3:20)!” So if God is able to do far more than we could ever imagine don’t you think he could take whatever we have and do miraculous things with them. It doesn’t matter whether we are farmers, antique store proprietors, cooks, maintenance workers, day care providers, nurses, caregivers, hotel housekeepers, managers, mothers, fathers; God is able to use us wherever we are to bring people into His fold where they will be safe.
But in order for God’s will to be done we have to give up our control and let Him be our guide. We must trust that whatever He calls us to do He will be with us every step of the way. He will take our 5 loaves and 2 fish, our little gifts, multiply them and, friends, there will be an abundance of leftovers to feed those others who tag along to see what all the commotion is about.
So I’m asking all of you reading this today, “What is God already at work doing in the community where you live? What is God calling you to do? How is He asking you to help?” And you know he is.
We can’t enjoy the fruits of our labors unless we get down on our knees and plant some seeds in the dirt. Just like we can’t eat BLT’s unless we keep the weeds away from the tomato plants neither can we expect God’s kingdom to grow here in Walnut unless we get on our knees and pray for God’s guiding grace as we plant the seeds of His love. We have to get out and share our stories with our friends and neighbors about how God is enriching our lives.
Let’s work together to share The Message with those in our community who are yearning to be filled with the love of Jesus. Remember God loves you and so do I.
Pastor David
Thank-You
-Jim McDermott, David Woltmann and Greg Mertz for planning and taking the boys on a fishing trip to Canada. (More news next month)
-George Mertz for offering to let the “fishermen” stay in his Canadian cabin.
- Chuck and Linda Ploen for planning the girls’ mission trip to Shell, Wyoming.
Pastor David/Linda helped (and worked) also. (More news next month.)
CONGRATULATIONS
Dr. Bill and Clara Beatty are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.
The Walnut Presbyterian Church is cordially invited to their reception.
The reception will be held from 2-4 pm on Sunday, August 30th in the
Pacific Springs Community Room, 805 S 173rd Court (174th & Pacific).
No gifts, please. Your presence and/or a short note to Bill and Clara
would be most meaningful to them. For those who wish to send an
anniversary greeting their address is, Bill and Clara Beatty, 521 S 174th Plaza, Omaha, NE 68118.
September Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Al & Dixie Schirm, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd
Communion Servers: Gloria Myers-chm, Linda Krueger, Charles Walter, Darlene Stuart.
August ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
August 2 ------- Carolyn Johnk
August 9------- Karla Helms
August 16------ Carla Johnk
August 23------Terri Abel
August 30-------Jean Bornholdt
Optimist Car Show – August 2
Antique City Drive will be blocked off. Parking will be in back of church or on side streets.
It’s A Picnic
Our Presbytery (Missouri River Valley) is planning a picnic for EVERYONE
in the Presbytery! This grand event will be held August 15th at Church Of The
Master located at 10710 Corby Circle, Omaha, Nebraska. This is just south of
Maple on 108th street.
All you are asked to do is let your pastor know if you’re planning on going
(so the Presbytery can buy enough fried chicken) and bring either a salad or dessert.
Many activities are being planned, especially for the children. They’ve rented
two BIG inflatable playthings, there will be a washer toss and sand pit volleyball,
so there will be plenty of things for the youngsters to enjoy.
Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women will begin their new season on September 5th
A club tour and lunch out are being planned.
Calvin Crest Lunch and Quilt Auction
Our church camp, Calvin Crest, will be holding it’s annual
BBQ and Quilt Auction on Saturday, August 29.
Quilts will be on display at 10 a.m., BBQ from 12-1:30 p.m.,
and Quilt Auction starting at 1:30 p.m.
(If you would like to contribute a quilt let Pastor David
know and he will take it to Calvin Crest on the 21st.)
Session Minutes
July 14, 2009
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on July 14th, 2009 in the south Sunday school annex.
Those in attendance were Darlene Stuart, Gloria Myers, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Dennis Jensen and Bonnie Holtz. Absent were Leo Rechtenbach, Val Sievers, Bobbie McDermott and Robin Tooley.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with scripture from I Peter 1: 3-9. He also read a reflection entitled “Have You Seen Jesus My Lord?”
The minutes of the June 9th meeting were read and approved.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as read.
The Pastor’s report was approved as given. Pastor David traveled 221 miles this month and served communion to 10 residents in Walnut and 48 residents of Salem Home in Elk Horn along with many visitations to members.
During the Clerk’s report it was stated that there were no membership transfers, one death-that of Janice Louise Tooley who died June 9th, 2009 and was buried in Layton Twp. Cemetery in Walnut, and there was a request from Jessica Newcomb to become a member of our church and have her 2 children baptized. David would also like to have an adult confirmation class for Jessica and/or anyone else who may be interested. It was moved and 2nd to grant this request. Motion carried.
Stewardship and Mission
Linda and Jim reported on their respective youth trips. There are five boys and seven girls going at this time. On Sunday, September 27 we will be hosting a joint worship service with United Church of Avoca. The guest speaker will be Doug Orbaker, delegations coordinator for the Council of Evangelical Churches is Nicaragua. We will have a coffee afterwards. There will be a World Mission Celebration in Cincinnati, Ohio on October 22-24.
Christian Education
Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage #6 will be October 15-18th.
There is a Youth Ministry Leader Seminar on September 12th at Countryside Community Church in Omaha conducted by Princeton Theological Seminary. Early Bird registration is $65.
David ordered the books “Christian Educator’s Guide to Evaluating and Developing Curriculum”. We will need to have a special meeting later to discuss how these books can help us with our Christian Education programs.
The Presbytery-Wide Picnic will be Sunday August 15th from 4-7 p.m. at Church of the Master. It will be a fun event for all ages. Please bring a salad or dessert.
There are several dates in August set for Child Protection Policy Training. The POAM/OWLS Fall Celebration will be Sept. 16-17 at Calvin Crest.
There are dried fruits and nuts for sale at the Presbytery office. Proceeds from sales go to help charitable organizations.
Check out the MRV Presbytery website at www.pmrv.org for news happening in the Presbytery.
Worship
Gloria Myers helped serve communion to 4 residents at Peace Haven on July 5th. Steve Koll will fill the pulpit on July 19th, Lou Buckner on August 9th, and Heather Ploen on October 18th.
Finance and Property
The Antique Walk went well. Roughly $12,000 was deposited before expenses. There will be more details next month.
Bruce Rosenbaum has been painting the outside trim of the church. He is finished with what he can reach with the ladder. David reported on Servant PC Resources Inc. It costs $499 for the license. We will discuss more later.
We also need a new signature authority at the bank to sign checks to replace Kent Johnk. It was moved and 2nd to approve Dennis Jensen for this position. Motion carried.
Personnel
No action
New Business
Cass County Memorial Hospital sent a Congregational Survey to the church for information on services and or training our members may need. David will fill this out.
It was also mentioned that perhaps we could use some of our memorial money to buy some new pew Bibles so all the Bibles are the same.
The meeting was closed with prayer and the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be August 11th at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
First Presbyterian Church (USA) Walnut, Iowa 51577
Volume 40 Number 8 August 2009
First Presbyterian Church Church Phone: 712-784-3953
Box 707 Pastor David’s home phone: 712-784-2204
Walnut, IA 51577 Pastor David’s cell: 402-936-0153
Pastor’s Notes
Disciples of Christ
In January I began asking the session to give prayerful consideration to what God was telling them what the mission was for His churches in Walnut. Each month I would phrase the question just a little bit differently, but the thought still meant the same thing, “What is God up to in this community? Where is God already at work and where would He like us to jump in?”
The Message for all us last Sunday, July 26th, was what gift God has blessed each of us with and how is it possible for Him to use our 5 loaves and 2 fish to feed His children. It’s my belief that God has blessed all of us with gifts, some of which we don’t see as gifts that can be used to further God’s kingdom here on earth.
Friends, that’s why it’s so vitally important for us to spend time with God each day reading and praying His Word. Time with God is never a waste of time. Time spent with God, time spent listening to Him is one of the ways we can discern how He is calling us to use these gifts.
We may not believe that our talents could ever be used to help some one else experience the love of God through Jesus but remember what Paul told the Ephesians, “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams (The Message, Ephesians 3:20)!” So if God is able to do far more than we could ever imagine don’t you think he could take whatever we have and do miraculous things with them. It doesn’t matter whether we are farmers, antique store proprietors, cooks, maintenance workers, day care providers, nurses, caregivers, hotel housekeepers, managers, mothers, fathers; God is able to use us wherever we are to bring people into His fold where they will be safe.
But in order for God’s will to be done we have to give up our control and let Him be our guide. We must trust that whatever He calls us to do He will be with us every step of the way. He will take our 5 loaves and 2 fish, our little gifts, multiply them and, friends, there will be an abundance of leftovers to feed those others who tag along to see what all the commotion is about.
So I’m asking all of you reading this today, “What is God already at work doing in the community where you live? What is God calling you to do? How is He asking you to help?” And you know he is.
We can’t enjoy the fruits of our labors unless we get down on our knees and plant some seeds in the dirt. Just like we can’t eat BLT’s unless we keep the weeds away from the tomato plants neither can we expect God’s kingdom to grow here in Walnut unless we get on our knees and pray for God’s guiding grace as we plant the seeds of His love. We have to get out and share our stories with our friends and neighbors about how God is enriching our lives.
Let’s work together to share The Message with those in our community who are yearning to be filled with the love of Jesus. Remember God loves you and so do I.
Pastor David
Thank-You
-Jim McDermott, David Woltmann and Greg Mertz for planning and taking the boys on a fishing trip to Canada. (More news next month)
-George Mertz for offering to let the “fishermen” stay in his Canadian cabin.
- Chuck and Linda Ploen for planning the girls’ mission trip to Shell, Wyoming.
Pastor David/Linda helped (and worked) also. (More news next month.)
CONGRATULATIONS
Dr. Bill and Clara Beatty are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.
The Walnut Presbyterian Church is cordially invited to their reception.
The reception will be held from 2-4 pm on Sunday, August 30th in the
Pacific Springs Community Room, 805 S 173rd Court (174th & Pacific).
No gifts, please. Your presence and/or a short note to Bill and Clara
would be most meaningful to them. For those who wish to send an
anniversary greeting their address is, Bill and Clara Beatty, 521 S 174th Plaza, Omaha, NE 68118.
September Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Al & Dixie Schirm, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd
Communion Servers: Gloria Myers-chm, Linda Krueger, Charles Walter, Darlene Stuart.
August ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.
Flowers for Pulpit
August 2 ------- Carolyn Johnk
August 9------- Karla Helms
August 16------ Carla Johnk
August 23------Terri Abel
August 30-------Jean Bornholdt
Optimist Car Show – August 2
Antique City Drive will be blocked off. Parking will be in back of church or on side streets.
It’s A Picnic
Our Presbytery (Missouri River Valley) is planning a picnic for EVERYONE
in the Presbytery! This grand event will be held August 15th at Church Of The
Master located at 10710 Corby Circle, Omaha, Nebraska. This is just south of
Maple on 108th street.
All you are asked to do is let your pastor know if you’re planning on going
(so the Presbytery can buy enough fried chicken) and bring either a salad or dessert.
Many activities are being planned, especially for the children. They’ve rented
two BIG inflatable playthings, there will be a washer toss and sand pit volleyball,
so there will be plenty of things for the youngsters to enjoy.
Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women will begin their new season on September 5th
A club tour and lunch out are being planned.
Calvin Crest Lunch and Quilt Auction
Our church camp, Calvin Crest, will be holding it’s annual
BBQ and Quilt Auction on Saturday, August 29.
Quilts will be on display at 10 a.m., BBQ from 12-1:30 p.m.,
and Quilt Auction starting at 1:30 p.m.
(If you would like to contribute a quilt let Pastor David
know and he will take it to Calvin Crest on the 21st.)
Session Minutes
July 14, 2009
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on July 14th, 2009 in the south Sunday school annex.
Those in attendance were Darlene Stuart, Gloria Myers, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Dennis Jensen and Bonnie Holtz. Absent were Leo Rechtenbach, Val Sievers, Bobbie McDermott and Robin Tooley.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with scripture from I Peter 1: 3-9. He also read a reflection entitled “Have You Seen Jesus My Lord?”
The minutes of the June 9th meeting were read and approved.
The Treasurer’s report was approved as read.
The Pastor’s report was approved as given. Pastor David traveled 221 miles this month and served communion to 10 residents in Walnut and 48 residents of Salem Home in Elk Horn along with many visitations to members.
During the Clerk’s report it was stated that there were no membership transfers, one death-that of Janice Louise Tooley who died June 9th, 2009 and was buried in Layton Twp. Cemetery in Walnut, and there was a request from Jessica Newcomb to become a member of our church and have her 2 children baptized. David would also like to have an adult confirmation class for Jessica and/or anyone else who may be interested. It was moved and 2nd to grant this request. Motion carried.
Stewardship and Mission
Linda and Jim reported on their respective youth trips. There are five boys and seven girls going at this time. On Sunday, September 27 we will be hosting a joint worship service with United Church of Avoca. The guest speaker will be Doug Orbaker, delegations coordinator for the Council of Evangelical Churches is Nicaragua. We will have a coffee afterwards. There will be a World Mission Celebration in Cincinnati, Ohio on October 22-24.
Christian Education
Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage #6 will be October 15-18th.
There is a Youth Ministry Leader Seminar on September 12th at Countryside Community Church in Omaha conducted by Princeton Theological Seminary. Early Bird registration is $65.
David ordered the books “Christian Educator’s Guide to Evaluating and Developing Curriculum”. We will need to have a special meeting later to discuss how these books can help us with our Christian Education programs.
The Presbytery-Wide Picnic will be Sunday August 15th from 4-7 p.m. at Church of the Master. It will be a fun event for all ages. Please bring a salad or dessert.
There are several dates in August set for Child Protection Policy Training. The POAM/OWLS Fall Celebration will be Sept. 16-17 at Calvin Crest.
There are dried fruits and nuts for sale at the Presbytery office. Proceeds from sales go to help charitable organizations.
Check out the MRV Presbytery website at www.pmrv.org for news happening in the Presbytery.
Worship
Gloria Myers helped serve communion to 4 residents at Peace Haven on July 5th. Steve Koll will fill the pulpit on July 19th, Lou Buckner on August 9th, and Heather Ploen on October 18th.
Finance and Property
The Antique Walk went well. Roughly $12,000 was deposited before expenses. There will be more details next month.
Bruce Rosenbaum has been painting the outside trim of the church. He is finished with what he can reach with the ladder. David reported on Servant PC Resources Inc. It costs $499 for the license. We will discuss more later.
We also need a new signature authority at the bank to sign checks to replace Kent Johnk. It was moved and 2nd to approve Dennis Jensen for this position. Motion carried.
Personnel
No action
New Business
Cass County Memorial Hospital sent a Congregational Survey to the church for information on services and or training our members may need. David will fill this out.
It was also mentioned that perhaps we could use some of our memorial money to buy some new pew Bibles so all the Bibles are the same.
The meeting was closed with prayer and the Lord’s Prayer.
Next meeting will be August 11th at 7:00 p.m.
Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session
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