April 2010 Gleaner

Pastor’s Notes
This morning I flipped the page on the calendar to see what was coming up. On the next page, right in front of me, was a picture of Jesus, with a basin of water and a towel, washing the disciples’ feet.

John tells us that Jesus knew his time had come and he wouldn’t have much more time alone with his companions. So what does he do but take up a basin of water and proceed to wash their feet and dry them with his apron. This was something for one of the servants to do, not “The Rabbi.”

What a perfect example Jesus is for each one of us. How many of us don’t struggle every day to not think about our own needs ahead of others? I know I do. It’s when I think I’ve got a good handle on it that I realize I don’t. Friends, why is it so hard for us to let go of our sin and pride? Why can’t we just get out there in the community and serve whoever needs to be served, without judging or pitying them?

It seems everywhere I go anymore I hear of one more organization or one more non-profit making reductions in staff or changes in how many people they can serve because either they aren’t receiving enough donations to fund their programs or they aren’t getting anyone to volunteer to serve. And so I wonder what’s wrong here?

For those of us who call ourselves followers of Jesus Christ that must mean that we aren’t living up to the standard He taught his disciples.

I’m reminded of the lesson in Mark where Jesus noticed the disciples in a pretty heated discussion as they were on their way to Capernaum. Even though you know he knew what it was they were talking so heatedly about he asked them anyway what it was they were so intently debating. And since they knew he knew they were ashamed and couldn’t speak of it. You see they were arguing about which one of them was the greatest.

Who among us doesn’t want to be recognized and maybe rewarded just a little for what they do? But that’s not what Jesus said. He said, “So you want to be in first place? Then you should take the last place. Be a servant of all.”

Mark’s gospel said that when Jesus asked his disciples what they were talking about the silence was deafening. As I read the gospels my heart is convicted because I know I fail to live as Jesus said I should. And the silence is deafening because I can’t even come up with a good excuse. There is no excuse.

As followers of Jesus we are all called to be servants, to minister to others. I’ve heard it said that’s its not the money but it’s what’s in our hearts. The question for each of us as we enter the Easter season is what’s in our hearts?

Jesus came into this world to save us from our sins and to show us how to serve. This season The Master again reminds us of our calling. Friends, can you hear his voice? Is your heart broken?

Come to the One who loves you to find healing and peace. Then you will know what to do next as you go out into the world. Pay it forward by serving and loving someone as you have been loved and served.

Yours in Christ,
Pastor David

IN MEMORIAM-EDNA JUNE NIELSEN

January 18, 1925-March 8, 2010

Edna June (Pash) Nielsen, age 85, died peacefully in the presence of her family of complications from cancer Monday, March 8, 2010, in Council Bluffs.

She had the combination of strength and sensibility. As a child, playful roughhousing with three brothers on the family farm provided her with mental and physical toughness. As a wife, mother and teacher she instilled the virtues of faith, discipline, hard work and generosity. Edna was born in Minden, Iowa, to Orville and Elsie (Blumer) Pash on January 18, 1925. She attended Avoca schools, graduating in 1942. Her education continued with Normal School where she obtained her teaching certificate. Edna spent the next year in a one-room country school in Avoca, Iowa. There she taught every subject to every child in kindergarten through junior high. After her stint in Avoca, Edna taught school in Treynor, Iowa, for three years.

While attending a chivaree for a mutual friend, she met Victor Nielsen. He asked her to go roller skating with him, but she said no. She already had a date. He ignored the rebuff, tried again, and after a three-year engagement the pair married January 25, 1946, in Avoca. They lived on a farm in Treynor, then for 10 years in Macedonia, Iowa, before making Walnut, Iowa, their home in 1958. There she was active with the First Presbyterian Church in Walnut, the Thursday Federated Club and the American Veterans Ladies Auxiliary. Her hobbies included dancing every weekend with her husband of 64 years, playing cards with friends, gardening, and wrestling on the floor with her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids In addition to selling life insurance for a short time, Edna became Walnut's skilled seamstress. She made and mended clothing at a time when if a zipper broke, you didn't buy new clothing, you got a new zipper. Edna also stitched together the generations, tailoring wedding dresses for her daughters and granddaughters.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Elsie Pash; and her brothers, Francis, Lester and Donald Pash.

In addition to her husband, Victor, she is survived by daughters, Rogene and husband, Daniel Terrian, of Ottumwa, Iowa, Vicki and husband, Roger Aughe, of Council Bluffs, Doreen Dee and husband, Dennis Taylor, of Waxahachie, Texas; sons, Bernie and wife, Cindy Nielsen, of Trinity, Fla., and Jay and wife, Karen Nielsen, of Allison, Iowa; 16 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and 3 great great grandchildren.

Congratulations
Congratulations to Rob and Amy Hansen on the birth of their twins: William Edward & Elizabeth Sue on March 1st


Seen in Church Bulletins (Not Ours)
(These are jokes)

Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled.
Proceeds will be used to cripple children.

This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church.
Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.


Presbyterian Women
If you are a Presbyterian and you are a women, then you are a PW! Come join us – the first Wednesday each month at 1:30 pm.

April 7th Walnut AFS exchange students, Akari from Japan and Nicole from Switzerland will speak.

Tuesday, April 6th walnut PW is invited to Guest Day at Peace United Church 2:00 PM.

April 10th, Saturday, members will journey to Council Bluffs Bethany Presbyterian Church for the Missouri River Valley PW Spring Gathering. Registrations must be in by April 5th. If you are planning on attending please call Charlotte Shepherd.

At this conference Walnut PW will be donating hygiene and beauty products such as bar soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, lotion and other feminine products to Mission for All Nations (Love in Action) located at 5210 S 21st St in Omaha. If anyone in the church is willing to donate to this mission get the items to a PW member.

April 20, at 2 PM Walnut PW will host Peace Haven’s Birthday/Bingo party in the PH dining room.

Anyone who would like to help is welcome to come. You could even play bingo, call out numbers, bake a cake or donate prizes. If so call Charlotte Shepherd

Special thanks to all who helped and donated food or contributed in any way for the Lenten meals, Edna Nielsen memorial lunch and Easter breakfast.



Girls for Hire
Karley Helms, Josie Cable and Valerie Sievers are planning a trip this summer to go back to Wyoming to visit the church they worked on last summer and the family they stayed with during that trip.

The girls are trying to raise money for the trip and are open to any kind of work you may need done. Give them a call.

These girls (with Linda Ploen’s help) will be preparing our Easter Brunch. They will be collecting a free will offering.

Mike and Cathy Shutters became new members.
Landon and Jackson were baptized.

May Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Chuck/Linda Ploen, George Mertz, Alice Richter
Communion Servers: Linda Ploen-chm., Chuck Ploen, JoJane Walter, George Mertz

Flowers for April
April 4-----------PW Easter Lilies
April 11----------Phyllis Hansen
April 18----------Bonnie Holtz
April 25----------Darlene Stuart

Church Humor
Don’t let your worries get the best of you; remember, Moses started out as a basket case.

Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited until you try to sit in their pews.

Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on the front door forever.

You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.

Session Minutes
March 9, 2010

The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on March 9th in the south Sunday School annex.

Those in attendance were Jim McDermott, Linda Ploen, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Bonnie Holtz, Linda Krueger and Jim Tooley. Absent were Bobbie McDermott and Margo Matthies.

Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Mark 6: 1-13. His reflection was entitled “Simplicity”.

The minutes of the February 16th meeting were read and approved.

The treasurer’s report was approved as given.

David reported many visits and a total of 156 miles for his Pastor’s report.

There was nothing to report from the clerk and no deaths to report.

Linda Ploen stated that there were no responses from letters sent out for inactive status. It was moved and 2nd to place these members on the inactive list.

We received a letter of transfer from Trinity Lutheran Church in Avoca, Iowa. It was moved and 2nd to accept this. Motion carried.

Stewardship and Mission
Linda K. and Bonnie reported on the One Great Hour of Sharing offering which is due Palm Sunday, March 28th. The money from the children’s banks will go to relief in Haiti. David and Jim M. also reported on several mission trip opportunities. We could possibly go with another church. Some trips are: Valentine, Nebraska w/Faithful Shepherd church in Omaha, New Orleans w/Church of the Master in Omaha, and one to Louisville, Kentucky for inner city work. These may be some possibilities.

Christian Education
Robin reported that she will meet with the Peace church on Thursday to discuss Bible School. There is interest in a youth group; we just need to set a date to get started.

Worship
Communion was served to 9 residents at Peace Haven on March 7th with Dennis Jensen serving as elder. It was moved and 2nd to serve communion on Maunday Thursday evening.There was some discussion on the Good Friday service. It has been poorly attended in the past so it was moved and 2nd to leave the decision of holding a service up to David and Pastor Muckey. It was also decided to go ahead and have communion on Easter Sunday since it’s the first Sunday of the month.

Finance and Property
Discussed spring cleaning. We will set a date next meeting. There was no action taken on the floor refinishing. Jim T. reported on a bid for redrywalling the sanctuary. Osbahr Drywall gave a bid for doing the ceiling. There would have to be prep work done before he started. We decided to table this discussion. Chuck Ploen sent an estimate for the repair of the round stained glass window on the front of the church. It was moved and 2nd to accept the bid . Motion carried. It was also moved and 2nd to remove the name of Kent Johnk from the signature card and safety deposit box at the bank and put Jim Tooley’s name on. Motion carried. We also had a CD renewed.

New Business
David and Jim McDermott attended the Presbytery meeting and David reported on the happenings at the meeting. Jim reported that the General Assembly will be in Minneapolis this year and may be a possibility for our youth or anyone to go and help with this. David also asked for permission to have “BRO” of Harlan come and maintain our copy machine. It was moved and 2nd to do so. Dennis also asked per Mary Ellen W. about ice for the Antique Walk. We decided to buy form the same company. Perhaps we need to raise our price. David asked us again to think about what our church’s mission is.

The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Next meeting is April 13, at 7:00 p.m.

Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session

Note: It was later decided to cancel Maunday Thursday services and encourage everyone to attend Peace Church’s musical event.

March 2010 Gleaner

Pastor’s Notes
Doesn’t the cartoon say it all? I know it does for me. I’m really ready to see some green grass and some crocus and tulips popping through the ground.

I hope that you have taken the opportunity to attend one or more of the Lenten evening worship services and meals. “Bread for the Journey” is the theme for the Wednesday evening worship and “The Sign of Jonah” is the theme for the Sunday evening worship. My prayer is that you are able to attend one or both and that through the Word proclaimed you will be led by God’s Spirit as you contemplate His message for us.

Friends, Holy Week isn’t very far away. Palm Sunday is March 28th and Easter is April 4th. After the joy of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem we will then be with the disciples as they eat the Last Supper with their Master, wait with him in the garden, and fear for him as he is questioned and tortured by his captors. We will watch with the women as Jesus is led through the streets of Jerusalem to the Hill, nailed to the cross, and left to hang there until he dies.
We will go with Joseph to ask Pilate for his body so he can be buried before the Sabbath begins. And we will mourn with the disciples as they hide fearfully in the Upper Room.

Jesus told us he was coming back on the third day but along with the disciples we have our doubts. What will happen on Easter Day?

Invite your family and friends to come with you to worship on April 4th to discover what is waiting for all who trust in the Lord. There is plenty of room for all of God’s children.
Will the tomb be empty? Will Jesus really be coming back? Come and see!

Pastor David

Congratulations
Congratulations to Jason and Shannon Wood on the birth of their daughter,
Blake Allyson on January 29th. She was welcomed home by brother, Devin.

Congratulations to Shannon and Teresa Griffith on the birth of their son,
Rhys Wilson on February 5th. He was welcomed home by brothers Mason,
Hugh and Ian.

Congratulations to Mike and Cathy Shutters for becoming members of our church and their sons Landon and Jackson on their baptism.

Congratulations to Jessica Helms and Lauren Sievers. Even though they are
just freshmen they were a huge asset to the Walnut Warriors basketball team.

Congratulations to Honor Roll Students:
Samantha Jensen, Josie Cable, Valerie Sievers, Bailey Nielsen, Courtlyn Griffith, Lauren Sievers, Ty Johnk, Jared Ploen, Emily Mitchell, Alyssa
Becerra and Michael Mertz.

Congratulations to Jennifer Ploen. Jennifer graduated from Iowa State January 19th with an elementary degree. She was named to the Dean’s List.

Congratulations to Jessica Ploen for making the Dean’s Honor Roll at Creighton University.

Seen in Church Bulletins (Not Ours)
(These are jokes)

Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want
remembered.

The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious
hostility.

Potluck supper at 5:00 PM – prayer and medication to follow.



Presbyterian Women
The Presbyterian Women’s group will meet at 1:30, March 3 at the church. Linda
Krueger is in charge of the program and Phyllis Hansen and Betty Sunderman are
hostesses.

Girls for Hire
Carly Johnk, Josie Cable and Valerie Sievers are planning a trip this summer to go back to
Wyoming to visit the church they worked on last summer and the family they stayed with
during that trip. The girls are trying to raise money for the trip and are open to any kind
of work you may need done. Give them a call.



Thank-you
Thank-you to the Presbyterian Women’s Group for preparing and serving our Lenten meals.
Thank-you to Justen Tooley for scooping the snow off the church roof and then hauling ALL THAT SNOW to the back of the church.
Thank-you to the Matthies and Shutters families for hosting a brunch in the church basement.



April Ushers and Communion Servers
Ushers: Vincent & Phyllis Hansen, Linda Krueger Communion Servers;
Robin Tooley-chm., Valerie Sievers, Gloria Myers, Linda Krueger


Flowers for March
March 7----------------Linda Sieck
March 14--------------Gloria Myers
March 21--------------Gloria Myers (for Tina Gregory)
March 28--------------PW Easter Lilies

Per Capita – If you still haven’t paid it, it is $28.75.

Church Humor
3-year-old Mikey:
“Our Father, Who does art in heaven,
Harold is His name.
Amen.”

One particular four-year-old prayed,
“And forgive us our trash baskets
as we forgive those who put trash in our baskets.”

(Perhaps these children need to drop in on Pastor David’s class on “The Lord’s
Prayer”. It is held after church and everyone is welcome to attend.)


Journey to the Cross
Scripture, prayer and meditative thoughts, accompanied by gentle music, can be
accessed every day at www.journeytothecross.org through Easter Sunday, April 4th.
This year’s theme is “Things Done and Left Undone”.


Time Change
Don’t forget to change your clocks. Spring ahead
March 14th.





Where Does God Want To Take You Next?
If someone you trusted came up to you and stated, “Nothing before in my life has given me the opportunity to witness first-hand the body of Christ being built up as this has. It is life-altering. It is empowering. It is inspiring. It is a body of believers, knit together by God, coming together for the sole purpose of nurturing one another on a personal journey with Christ, and then charging them to go home and impact their own churches”, would you sit up and take notice? Would you want what they had? Would you desire it for yourself and your church?

Plans are being made and prayers are being offered for the upcoming Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage #7 to be held April 22-25, 2010. Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage is a three-day renewal retreat for Christian adults that is designed to further the faith walk of the individual, and thereby strengthen churches. It possesses the ability to truly transform your Christian walk.

Where: The weekend is held at Camp Calvin Crest, just outside of Fremont, Nebraska, in their comfortable Retreat Center.

When: The weekend begins at 5pm on Thursday the 22nd of April and concludes by 4pm on Sunday the 25th of April.

What: The weekend is all-inclusive, and every guest need is met. Cost is $260 per person with scholarships available upon request. Food, fun, fellowship, worship, prayer, communion, teaching, praise, and laughter are all guaranteed!

Who: Everyone. All are welcome!

How: Guest Registrations are currently being taken and can be submitted to Pastor David, or to the GPPP registrar listed on the form. There are information flyers and registration forms lying on the table at the back of the church. The website offers much more information, as well as registration forms. www.gpppilgrimage.org.


Have you ever wondered what your next step in faith will be?

As you travel down life's highway, it is good to stop and rest a while. You can gather at the river with your fellow travelers, and at that oasis, you can break bread, laugh, sing, worship, listen, and be heard. After lingering at that sanctuary, you and your friends will emerge refreshed, rested, and ready to continue on your way, prepared once more to "celebrate the journey and praise the Lord". Hey, weary traveler, the Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage is waiting...for you.

The Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage, which is open to all denominations, is a 3-day journey in Christianity designed to provide all Christians with a renewed faith foundation, and which fosters a revitalization of personal spiritual growth for individual and community living. It is held at a comfortable conference center where guests’ every need is met. The weekend retreat is open to all ages, all maturity levels, and to all Christians.

It will change the horizons of your Christian walk!

PILGRIMAGE #7 is April 22-25, 2010 at Camp Calvin Crest, Fremont, Nebraska. For detailed information check out the website: www.gpppilgrimage.org. To obtain a registration form, ask questions, or get printed information pages, contact the Pastor David Krueger, walnutpres@walnutel.net or 712-784-3953 or Shelly Story, Outreach Coordinator for GPPP, at dstory@gpcom.net, or 402-586-2634.


Session Minutes
February 16, 2010
The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on February 16th in the south Sunday School Annex. The meeting was postponed from February 9th due to bad weather.

Those in attendance were Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Bobbie McDermott, Dennis Jensen, Robin Tooley, Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger and Jim Tooley. Absent was Bonnie Holtz.
Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Romans 15:4. David also had a reflection from the Presbyterian Heritage Daily Devotional.

The minutes from the January meeting and the Annual Congregational meeting were read and approved.

The treasurer’s report was approved as read.

David presented his pastor’s report. Because of winter weather and driving he traveled only 80 miles. David is now doing evening service at Peace Haven once a month as well as Avoca Nursing & Rehab and Allen House in Atlantic. He also officiated the wedding of Betty Larsen and Dennis Akers. It was moved and 2nd to approve the report.

Linda Ploen reported as clerk that she had sent out 8 letters to members concerning inactive status. She has filed all necessary Presbytery reports. There were no deaths. We received new members Mike & Cathy Shutters into the church on February 14, 2010, and their sons Landon Jay and Jackson James were also baptized.

Welcome New Members
We welcomed new elders, Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger and Jim Tooley. Committee assignments were made.

Stewardship & Mission-Linda Krueger and Bonnie Holtz, Christian Education- Robin Tooley and Margo Matthies, Worship- Linda Ploen and Bobbie McDermott, Finance & Property- Dennis Jensen, Jim McDermott, and Jim Tooley.
Stewardship & Mission

David is still looking into new mission projects. Perhaps we could go in with another church.

Christian Education
Robin reported that the Sunday School collected 53 cans of soup for the food pantry on “Soup”er Bowl Sunday and the kids delivered the cans to Avoca. The children are also making a “kindness” chain that when finished will hopefully encircle the entire church. They also have 4 baby quilts to deliver. Bible School plans will soon be discussed. Also mentioned was the possible formation of a church youth group. Jim M. said we need to get and keep our youth involved in church activities. Robin will talk to some of the kids about a time to get together. David also announced that there will be a Lenten study on the Lord’s Prayer beginning next Sunday following worship.

Worship
Communion was served to 9 residents at Peace Haven February 7th with Jim McDermott serving as elder. Lenten services will begin here on Ash Wednesday, February 17th at 6 p.m. “Bread for the Journey” is the sermon series that will be used for the Wednesday evening worship. Offerings will go to the Food Pantry, Good Guys and the Crisis Center in Atlantic. Lenten Sunday evening services are called “The Sign of Jonah”. They begin February 21st at United Church of Avoca with David giving the first service.

Finance & Property
We need to set a date for spring cleaning as there are several projects that need to be done. Some plans mentioned for this year were: a new sidewalk out front that is handicapped accessible to the curb, some updates in the sanctuary-Jim T. will get some estimates, Chuck P. will get estimates for replacement windows for the sanctuary. We also need to get the snow removed from the church roof. David also mentioned that our floors are really getting worn. Perhaps we could first redo the floor in the entry of the south annex. Jim M. will check into renting an upright sander, and David will get ideas for the finish. Dennis stated that we had received $15,000 from the Marie Mertz estate. It was moved and 2nd to leave the money in the general fund at this time.

Personnel
A Community Assistance Program meeting is scheduled for February 21st at United Church of Avoca at 7:00. Darlene Stuart was one of our representatives to CAP so we needed a replacement. Margo Matthies agreed to take her place.

New Business
Presbytery meeting is scheduled for February 20th at Church of the Cross from 1-3:30. Approval was given for the marriage of Betty Larsen and Dennis Akers on February 15, 2010. We have a $17,000 CD coming due in March. We need to check into the interest rates before we decide what to do with it.
It was moved and 2nd to adjourn the meeting.

The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Next meeting is March 9th at 7:00 p.m.

Linda Ploen
Clerk of Session

February 2010 Gleaner

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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