October 2012 Gleaner

PASTOR’S NOTES

          As I sit to write today I’m thinking about the worship service yesterday, September 23^rd. The sanctuary was full, so full that there were folks standing at the back. Not only was it full there were 21 young people at worship.

          Now that may not mean much to some but our attendance at Sunday morning worship has been way less. Let me just say that there haven’t been any people standing in the back searching for a place to sit.

          The reason the pews were full was two-fold. We had a cute little girl to baptize and the Sunday school had new study Bibles to handout to those who were advancing to our older class. So, we had parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and friends here to support the new Mom and Dad and the young folks receiving their new Bibles. That’s why the sanctuary was overflowing.

          The last few weeks I’ve been reading and thinking about worship, why we worship on Sunday morning, how we worship, and is it pleasing to God.

          Most folks, my age and older, come to worship every Sunday morning because that’s what they’ve always done. It’s part of the Sunday morning ritual; it’s an ingrained habit that started way back when.  Some Sunday’s their hearts may be lifted with an inspiring sermon and other Sundays maybe not so much. So why do we continue to come?

          When we look at the bulletin do we ever ask ourselves why we do this prayer here and sing this song there and say the Lord’s Prayer here…and why do we pray two or three different prayers? Why do we have a prayer of confession?

Does anyone ever ask these questions or are we more concerned with getting the whole process over in 60 minutes?  As a pastor I think about these things. I wonder if the words spoken during worship have any impact on those listening…and is God pleased.

Whether we think about it or not God’s the one who calls us together to worship. He’s the one who began this process by calling every one of us into being. And so we respond to his call by gathering Sunday morning, the day of Jesus’ resurrection, to give God our thanks and praise and focus our thoughts on God and His kingdom.

That’s why we worship. The how is a different thing because God in his ultimate wisdom created each of us with different characteristics which means we don’t all worship or process things in the same way. And so, every person receives something different than their neighbor sitting beside them at the exact same worship service.

I may not have answered the question why we worship but I pray that now you will consider why it is you do what you do when you come to worship on Sunday morning...or Saturday evening.

May God bless your day today and forevermore,

Pastor David

                                         Thank-You

Thank-you to Jim Tooley, Kathy Hansen, Margo & Doug Matthies, Chuck & Linda Ploen, Pastor David & Linda Krueger, and Dennis & Nancy Hullinger for providing and serving a Sunday evening meal at Peace Haven.  We had a really fun time and the residents not only complimented the food but remarked that they loved hearing so much laughter.

Thank-you to Jim Tooley and Barb Eslick for providing us with special music on Sept 9^th and 23^rd.

Thank-you to our Sunday School for a HUGE ice cream party celebrating the start of a new Sunday School year.  I don’t know how many different toppings there were but I do know they were all delicious.

Thank-you to Dave Heilig, Jim, Justen and Robin Tooley for hanging the big cross which had been taken down for the painting of the sanctuary and the new cloth which was put up behind the cross.

If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.

                                       CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Wilma Newton and Dennis Hullinger on becoming members of our church on Sept. 9^th.  We welcome them from the United Church in Avoca.

Congratulations to Shane and Tara Lohoff on the baptism of baby Brielle on Sept. 23^rd.

Congratulations to Eric and Cheyenne Mertz of Council Bluffs on the birth of their baby boy, Ruger Michael Hegner Mertz, on Sept. 20^th.  He weighed 6 lb 1 oz.  Eric is George Mertz’s grandson and Dennis Mertz’s son.  Cheyenne is the daughter of Louis and Rose Mary Pedersen and the granddaughter of Edna Kutnink.

Congratulations to Brian and Nellie Popp on the birth of their daughter Teagan on Sept. 23^rd.  Nellie is the daughter of Jim and Bobbie McDermott and the granddaughter of Leo Rechtenbach.

      A thief broke into my house last night…he started searching for money so I woke up and searched with him.

Golden Oldies

The Golden Oldies will meet for lunch at Trinity Lutheran Church October 16 at 11:30 AM.  There will be NO Golden Oldies in November and December.  The next meal will be January 15^th at our church.

Sympathy

Our sympathy to the family of Sylvia Reddie.  Sylvia passed away on August 28^th at the age of 87 in Washington State.  Sylvia was a former Walnut resident who operated a Bed and Breakfast and was an active member of our church.

My memory’s not as sharp as it used to be.  Also, my memory’s not as sharp as it used to be.

                   November Ushers and Communion Servers

Ushers:  Teri Abel, Darlene Stuart, Margo Matthies and Cathy Shutters

Communion Servers: Kathy Hansen chm, Bobbie McDermott, Darlene Stuart, Jim McDermott.  October ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.

                             It’s scary when you start making the same noises as your coffee maker.

          Flowers for Pulpit

                                                             October 7--------Cathy Shutters

                                                 October 14--------Teri Abel

                                                 October 21 ------Bobbie McDermott

                                                 October 28 ------Janet Grush

“If you judge people, you have no time to love them.”  Mother Teresa

Presbyterian Women

Presbyterian Women meet Wednesday, October 3, 1:30 pm in church dining room.
Business __ Annual PW Mini Bazaar and Dinner

Missouri River Valley Presbytery (PW women of churches in western Iowa and Omaha)FALL GATHERING at New Horizons Presbyterian Church in Council Bluffs, Saturday, October 6. If you plan to attend w/Charlotte please let her know by September 29 so luncheon reservations may be made.

Please have your Snicker candy bars (2.07 oz) turned in by September 30 -Sunday so they can be taken to the Fall Gathering, also if you are making Christmas stockings for HELP Adult Services please bring them by that date.

Today I will live in the moment – unless the moment is unpleasant, in which case I will eat a cookie.

Session Minutes

September 11, 2012

The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on September 11, 2012 at 7 pm in the Sunday School south annex.  Those in attendance were: Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger, Jim Tooley Linda Ploen, Kathy Hansen and Allan Sievers.  Absent were Jim McDermott, Jack Ploen, Michelle and Mike Mertz.

Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer.  Scripture readings were from Matthew 28:19, Mark 1:4, Mark 10:38, Romans 6:3-4, Acts 2:38-39, 1 Corinthians 12:13, and Colossians 2:12.  Our reflection was a discussion and personal stories of baptism.

The minutes of the August meeting were read and approved.

The Treasurer’s report was accepted as given.  The Antique Walk report was also given.  We had a net income of $5,968.59.

The pastor’s report was given and approved.  Pastor David traveled 47 miles this month.  He also thanked everyone for their prayers and concern since the death of his sister.

There was no clerk’s report and no deaths.  Dennis Hullinger and Wilma Newton were accepted into membership on September 9^th by letter of transfer from United Church of Avoca.

Stewardship and Mission

“Bring A Friend Sunday” needs to be rescheduled, perhaps as a community effort.  Peace Offering will begin September 16^th and will run for 4 Sundays.  Part of this offering stays here in walnut for anti-bullying.  We need to try the 30 hour famine program again.  Also mentioned was passing out bags for the Food Pantry and having people bring them back with supplies.  We need to keep thinking about a mission project for our church.

Christian Education

The first day of Sunday School “Sundae Sunday” was a big success.  There has been a good attendance with helpers: Robin Tooley, Kathy Hansen, Bonnie Holtz, Michelle Mertz and Michelle Sunderman.  Kathy Hansen also reported that she had delivered 3 more welcome baskets to new Walnut residents from our church.  The 2013 Presbyterian Youth Triennium will be held at Lafayette, Indiana on July 16-20, 2013.  The theme is “I am”.

Worship

Communion was served to 4 residents at Peace Haven on September 2^nd.  Jim Tooley served as elder.  Linda Ploen also wanted to remind everyone of our Saturday night services on the 4^th Saturday of each month at 5:30.  Refreshments are included.  We are also looking at things to make our Advent season more meaningful and visual. 

Finance and Property

Jim Tooley reported on our Wells Fargo account.  It was moved and 2^nd to put the money into a CD since it was gaining only .01 percent interest.  We will renew our CD with Great Western Bank.  We received a bid for new doors and windows for the church.  After discussion we decided to list all the improvements we need or would like, to see what the congregation feels about them and the priorities of projects.  The list is as follows: interior doors, south door, replace accordion doors, new windows, trim and molding around windows, refinish floors, new furnace and air conditioner, and new pews or replace with chairs.  We welcome any input on these projects.  Perhaps we could have a special fund raiser for any of these projects.

Personnel

The 2012 nominating committee is: Chuck Ploen, Greg Mertz and Jim Tooley.  We also discussed our “Celebration of Service”.  It will be an appreciation celebration for all those who serve the church.  We may try to have it in November.

New Business

Our by-laws were reviewed with suggested changes noted.  We will be hosting the Sunday evening meal at Peace Haven on September 16^th at 5:30.

The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Next meeting will be October 9^th, 2012 at 7 pm.

Linda Ploen

Clerk of Session

September Gleaner 2012

Pastor’s Notes

            Beginning September 9 our denomination begins to celebrate a “Season of Peace.” This runs from September 9 through October 7, World Communion Sunday; the Sunday we will receive the Peacemaking offering. Twenty-nine days to contemplate “peace.”

          Our session last night decided to receive the Peacemaking Offering and to give the 25% portion our congregation is allowed to keep to the Walnut Community School to support their anti-bullying program.

          As we think about what a “season of peace” might be like I urge you to pick up your Bibles and read Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. It’s only 6 chapters; you can read it in less than 30 minutes.

          Eugene Petersen wrote in The Message that this letter was about belief and behavior. In this letter Paul talks about how God has a plan worked out by Christ, a plan to bring healing and unity into the world that is so torn apart by a sinful nature.

          Through God’s grace in Jesus Christ there are no longer outsiders or insiders. We’re all one body. Paul said, “Christ came and preached peace to you outsiders and peace to us insiders. He treated us as equals, and so made us equals.”

          So, what would it be like to experience peace, in our homes, in our schools, in our communities, in our world? Can you imagine that?

          Every day we listen to the news about US soldiers in Afghanistan being killed by Afghanistani policemen. We hear of people being shot, and killed, in parts of Omaha. We hear the candidates for political office speaking in ways that don’t do much to promote peaceful relations. And if we’re honest with each other it’s not too peaceful in our own homes either.

          In this Season of Peace what are we to do to begin making changes that will make this world peaceful? Please don’t think I have all the answers because I struggle with the same things you all do.

          One thing I do know and believe and that is God had a plan that he put into motion in Jesus the Christ. God came into the world, a violent world, and through the example of Jesus’ life showed all of us how to live in peace, how to reconcile our differences in non-violent ways. His example was that God was, is, and always will be love. Love cannot exist without peace. And neither can exist without God’s grace.

          So, friends, as I’ve said these last couple weeks it begins with us, it begins first in our very own homes; it begins by making a commitment to change our old habits for a Christ-like life, a life of peace, and love.

          Please take the time to read Paul’s letter to the Ephesians and when the information is distributed for the Peacemaking Offering read it and prayerfully consider what you can do to bring peace into this world.

          All my life I’ve heard of war and killing and if it’s ever going to stop it’s going to have to start right here with you and me. Let’s commit to leaving this world in a better state than it was when we were born.

          God’s peace and grace be with you all,

          Pastor David

           

       

                                        Thank-You

Thank-you to everyone for your prayers, cards, and gifts during Pastor David’s heartache over his sister June.  June Smith, 55, of Mt. Ayr, surrounded by her husband, three sons and brothers and sisters, lost her battle with cancer August 15^th.

Thank-you to Kathy Hansen for all the work she did on our float for the Fireman’s Funfest and for providing and delivering gift baskets to new residents in Walnut.

Sympathy

                Our sympathy to the Tooley family on the death of Jim’s brother-in-law,

                Doug Marsh.  Doug died August 24^th at his home in Omaha.  Doug’s wife if   

                Deb (Tooley) Marsh.

                                                                

                                 A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.     

            

Congratulations

Congratulations to Shane and Tara Lohoff on the birth of their daughter, Brielle Helen Ruth Lohoff on July 11^th.  Brielle weighed 6 lb. 12 oz. and was 20 in. long.

Congratulations to Michelle Tooley and Shannon Wood for passing the EMT test.

Congratulations to Hunter Nielsen for his Champion and Grand Champion Honors for his livestock at the Shelby County Fair.

Congratulations to Ty Johnk for his Championship awards for his heifer at the East Pott.

County Fair and his purple ribbon at the State Fair.

Congratulations to Jeff and Kathy Hansen’s daughter, Amy, on receiving her Master’s Degree in “Master of Healthcare Administration” from Bellevue University in Nebraska.

    

Being Thankful

A Pastor said to a precocious six-year-old boy, “So your mother says your prayers for you each night?  That’s very commendable.  What does she say?”  The little boy replied, “Thank God he’s in bed?”

Sunday School

Sunday School will begin this fall on September 9^th.  Robin Tooley has a fun time planned for the children on this “Sundae Sunday”.  The beautiful Christian calendars will again be sold this year by the Sunday School.

Blankets, Blankets, Blankets

Extra blankets at your house???  We have a use for them.  The month of September we will be collecting CLEAN blankets to be delivered to Women’s Shelters and Homeless Shelters.  The blankets do not have to be new, just clean.  You can bring them to the church and they will be delivered.

I want to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfather.  Not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car.

Save The Date

Kathy Hansen is hosting a bridal shower for Robin Tooley and Dave Heilig on October 14^th.  Everyone is invited!  Men, Women and Children!  Kathy is planning a FUN, FUN event!  Mark your calendars.

Needed

The basement has a need for a high chair and a pack-n-play.  It would be nice for our young parents to have a high chair when we have meals downstairs and a place to lay their baby if they fall asleep.

School

If you would like to help out our local school/teachers you may purchase items and drop them off at the school office.  Along with the usual paper, erasers etc. items most needed are: glue stix, Kleenex, Lysol wipes, pencils, and notebooks.

Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed.

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry has a need for these items in September:

Canned fruit and veggies                               Peanut Butter

Dry pudding mix                                           Soup

Shampoo and Conditioner                               Juice

Tuna                                                            Jell-O and pudding

Cereal                                                                   Spaghetti Sauce

Put them in the basket at the back of the sanctuary and Pastor David will be happy to deliver them to the Food Pantry.

Snickers Sunday

On any Sunday Sept. 16-Oct. 14 churches are asked to participate in HELP Adult Services 3^rd Annual Snickers Sunday.  Bring Snickers (2.07 ox only) to donate to the Christmas stocking program.  The Christmas Stocking program has been providing handmade stockings filled with goodies to nearly 3,000 incarcerated adults and youth in our area for over two decades.  These stockings are often the only Christmas gift that an inmate will receive.  At least one Snickers bar will be in every stocking.

Antique Walk – Antique Walk – Antique Walk – Antique Walk – Antique Walk

            Robin reported the figures she had (so far) – approximate

            Income - $12,128.95

            Expenses - $5,132.38

            Profit - $6,996.57

Anyone that wants input on next year’s Antique Walk Food Stand should attend the meeting on Sept. 11 at 6:00 at the church.

           

  October Ushers and Communion Servers

Ushers: Jim Tooley, Robin Tooley

Communion Servers: Linda Ploen – chm, George Mertz, Robin Tooley, Pam Nielsen.  September ushers and communion servers are at bottom of calendar.

                  God sometimes takes us into troubled waters.  Not to drown us, but to cleanse us.

          Flowers for Pulpit

                                                             September 2 -------Avis Mortensen

                                                 September 9--------Karla Helms

                                                 September 16 ------Julie Nash

                                                 September 23 ------Dixie Schirm

                                                     September 30 ------Margo Matthies

The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don’t know what you are doing, someone else does.

                                                                                                                                                        

Session Minutes

August 21, 2012

The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on August 21, 2012 at 7 pm. In the Sunday School south annex.  Those in attendance were: Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger, Jim Tooley, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Kathy Hansen and Allan Sievers.  Absent were: Jack Ploen and Michelle & Mike Mertz.

Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from Jeremiah 1:5 and Psalm 139: 1-6, 13-16.  The reflection was “Knowing Where You’re Going” from Seasons of God by Richard Blackaby and a reading from Font & Table: A Guide to Sacramental Practice.

The minutes of the June meeting were read and approved.

The treasurer’s report for June and July was accepted as given.

The pastor’s report was read and approved.  Pastor David traveled 142 miles in June and 64 miles in July.

There was no clerk’s report and no deaths.  It was moved and 2^nd to approve new members Dennis Hullinger and Wilma Newton who are transferring from United Church of Avoca.  Motion carried.  We also approved the baptism of Brielle Helen Ruth Lohoff, the daughter of Tara and Shane Lohoff on September 23^rd. 

Stewardship & Mission

Linda Krueger reported on the Peace Making offering which will be taken on October 7^th.  The offering can be used for anti-bullying campaigns.  It was decided to do this.  We also discussed “Bring A Friend To Church Sunday”.  Kathy Hansen reported that she has given out 6 baskets to new residents of Walnut on behalf of our church.  She would also like to start a blanket drive for the month of September.  Blankets can be brought to the church or the city clerk’s office.  They will be donated to a homeless shelter or women’s shelter.  David also asked that we think about getting involved with a mission project, perhaps Open Door Mission, the Crop walk, Bread for the World or World Vision.  Hopefully we can decide on something by next meeting.  It was also mentioned that the Walk-a-Thon at the Open Door Mission will be September 23^rd for anyone interested in walking.

Christian Education

Bible School went well.  Sunday School will be starting again on September 9^th with Sundae Sunday.  Thanks were also given to Kathy Hansen for the float for Fun Fest.  It was also ok’d to have Kathy order the calendars to sell for Sunday School. 

Worship

David asked to have a meeting with the worship committee to discuss plans for Advent.  Communion was served to 4 residents at Peace Haven on July 1^st and August 5^th .  Linda Krueger and Margo Matthies, respectively, served as elders.

Finance & Property

The painting of the sanctuary is complete.  It was moved and 2^nd to replace the door into the sanctuary.  Motion carried.  Jim Tooley will get bids for this.  We also voted to get bids for new windows in the sanctuary, as they are getting bad.  We would like to keep the stained glass and have them all double paned.  We received our American Red Cross shelter agreement.  Our church can now be used as a shelter during a disaster.  Audio interface, cables and mike risers have been ordered and will be installed soon.  Antique Walk went well, making well over $6,000.  We will meet September 11^th at 6:00 to discuss the Walk-what went well and what could be improved.  Kathy was given permission to use the church basement for a shower Robin Tooley and Dave Heilig on October 14^th at 2:00.  Everyone is invited. 

Personnel

We need to be looking for a choir director replacement. 

New Business

No action has been taken with our church by-laws.  It was voted to host a Sunday evening meal at Peace Haven on September 16^th at 5:30.  We will serve brisket, salad, bars and bread. 

The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Our next meeting will be September 11,2012 at 7 p.m.

Linda Ploen

Clerk of Session

July/August Gleaner 2012

Pastor’s Notes

       Summer has officially begun in Walnut with the Amvet’s 2012 Annual Antique Walk now complete.

A whole lot of work goes into preparation and coordinating all that it takes to have a successful church food stand. Many things take place behind the scenes that most folks don’t ever know or think about.

          Things like making sure there’s enough of every supply to serve folks for the whole weekend, meat, ice cream mix, pop, water, cups, forks and spoons, napkins, dill pickles, ice, and…volunteers to serve our guests who come to eat. It’s all takes time and effort to make lists, make phone calls, send emails, and follow up when someone doesn’t answer as quickly as we think they should. And sometimes some of us don’t sleep too well because we worry about this or that thing that we’re unsure of.

          Now it’s over for another year. We won’t think about it again, at least some of us, until May or June next year and then we’ll dig out our notes and lists and the process will begin all over again. That’s how life goes.

          Doesn’t it make you wonder what the world would be like if we put the same amount of effort and sweat and worry into spreading the Good News of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection to people we meet everyday many who we know don’t know one thing about Jesus or King David or Samuel or Moses. Many who we know don’t have a church family to support them, pray for them, laugh and cry with them. They think they’re in this all alone.

          What would our community look like if there were folks, not just the pastor, who made lists, sent emails, made phone calls, stopped to visit, and…maybe didn’t sleep some nights because they worried about Sam or Dora whom they hadn’t had a chance to tell Jesus’ story to yet? What would the world look like if that same process that makes the Antique Walk a success was put to work spreading the Good News?

          Friends, there are some people doing just that. Think about the Open Door Mission, Sienna Francis House, World Vision, Crop Walk, and the Food Pantry. That’s one small step.

          So, what if there was a leadership group that made it their job to plan, coordinate, and organize this congregation to share the Good News with people here in Walnut? What if they made phone calls, sent emails, and begged people to go out in teams, just like Jesus sent his disciples out, just like someone begged you to bake pies or work the food stand or help set up and take down? What if?

          If someone asked you to be part of the team how would you respond?

Pastor David

                                       Thank-You

---to EVERYONE who helped in any way at our FOOD STAND for the Antique Walk.  Chairman Mary Ellen Woltmann works tirelessly for MANY days, Charlotte Shepherd organizes, purchases and delivers the supplies, Larry Shepherd takes charge of the setting up and tearing down of the stand along with helping everywhere, Kathy Hansen was everywhere doing everything, Barb Eslick for her work on the ice cream machine (and the tea), and Pastor David for all his help and his calm demeanor when faced with all our frazzled nerves.

“I’m so glad I’m a part of the Family of God…”

Upcoming Events

Rockin’ Robin’s Day Care – Robin Tooley is having a Grand Opening on July 13^th from 5-7 PM at the day care.  Stop in to welcome this new business to the

community. 

“Outrageous Olympics” will be held August 25^th from 4-8 PM at Faithful Shepherd Presbyterian Church (8100 Giles Road, Omaha).  This is a fun evening for Preschool-Adults.  If interested contact Kathy Hansen.  Registration is due by August 13^th.

Fireman’s Parade will be held August 4^th (Saturday afternoon).  Kathy Hansen, Michelle Mertz and Robin Tooley will head up the committee for our float.  If interested in participating contact one of these ladies.    

BBQ & Quilt Auction – August 25^th Calvin Crest, Fremont NE is hosting their annual BBQ and quilt auction.  Quilts will be on display at 10 AM, BBQ is from 12-1:30, and the auction will begin at 1 PM.

‘O Lord, please keep your arm around my shoulder and your hand over my mouth

Congratulations

Congratulations to—Drew Cable for passing all his classes and THE TEST to                                 

                                  become an EMT!  Drew will be majoring in criminal justice

                                  at Iowa Western this fall.

                             ----Our softball/baseball players (high school) Lauren Sievers,

                                  Kaitlyn Tooley, Emily Mitchell, Alyssa Becerra, Ty Johnk,

                                    Jared Ploen, Chris Guthry, Josh Guthry, Drew Cable and

                                  Michael Mertz.  They had a VERY SUCCESSFUL season.

Anniversary Congratulations – Al and Dixie Schirm – 69 years – on July 24^th

                                               --Vincent and Phyllis Hansen – 68 years – June 24^th

                                               --Don and JoJane Walter – 64 years – June 23^rd

Sometimes I feel like throwing in the towel – but you know what that means …more laundry!

      August Ushers and Communion Servers

Ushers: Kent & Carla Johnk, Jim & Bobbie McDermott  

Communion Servers:.Margo Matthies-chm.,Alan Sievers, Barb Eslick, Teri Abel

“Some people care too much… I think it’s called love.”  Winnie the Pooh

                                         September Ushers and Connunion Servers

Ushers:  Kathy Hansen, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd   

Communion Servers:  Jim Tooley-chm., Gloria Myers, Larry & Charlotte Shepherd

July Ushers and Communion Servers are on the July Calendar

I don’t like to gossip but I heard The Father telling The Son to tell The Holy Spirit to tell the

 Angels to protect you today, tonight and always!  It’s in the Word.

                                           Flowers for Pulpit

                                                            July 1 -------Betty Sunderman

                                                July 8------Michelle Sunderman

                                                July 15------Connie Jensen

                                                July 22------Shannon Wood

                                                July 29------Kami Bruck

                                                Aug. 5-------Mary Ellen Woltmann

                                                   Aug. 12------Mary Ellen Woltmann

                                                   Aug. 19------Carla Johnk

                                                   Aug. 26------Jean Bornholdt

                “Some folks are wise and some are otherwise.”  Tobias Smolle

June 2012 Session Minutes                                                                             

June 12, 2012

The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on June 12 at 7 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex.  Those in attendance were: Linda Krueger Jim Tooley, Linda Ploen and Kathy Hansen.  Absent were: Margo Matthies, Jim McDermott, Jack Ploen, Michelle Mertz, Allan Sievers and Mike Mertz.  A quorum was met.

Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and scripture from 2 Corinthians 12: 7-10.  His reflection was entitled “God’s Strength in Our Weakness.”

The minutes of the May meeting were read and approved.

The treasurer’s report was accepted as given.

The pastor’s report was given and approved.  David traveled 110 miles this month.  It was moved and 2^nd to allow David two Sundays of vacation from July 22-July 29^th.  Motion carried.

Linda Ploen then reread the letter on “Culture of Invitation”.  This will be the Sunday before school starts and we are asked to invite and bring someone who doesn’t have a church to come to our church. David then asked us “How are you engaged in study and evangelism in your community?”  He is going to compile a list from churches in the presbytery for a committee he is involved with.  Ideas mentioned were: joint Bible School, Angel Tree, joint Lenten services, Golden oldies, church dinners, Traveler’s Aid fund, food pantry, Good Guys Assistance and the pastor’s visits.  Under membership it was moved and 2^nd to reinstate Jean Schmitt to active membership.  Motion carried.

Stewardship and Mission

No action taken.

Christian Education

Kathy reported on the “Outrageous Olympics” at Faithful shepherd Church.  She will get more information on this.  She also stated that Vacation Bible School went well.  It had been a good week.  She received a donation of $100 which she donated to the “Splash Pod” for the use of it during the week.  Kathy also asked about making “Welcome Baskets” for new residents to Walnut informing them about our church.  We thought that was a good idea.

Worship

Communion was served to 4 residents at peace Haven on June 3^rd.  Jim Tooley was the serving elder.

Finance and Property

It was moved and 2^nd to purchase audio interface and misc. cables for the sanctuary PC at a cost of $125.  This will improve the volume control on the sound system.  We will also get 2 mike stand boom arms at a cost of $60.  Motion carried.  David reported that the air conditioning unit for the south annex has not been working.  The unit is 31 years old.  It was decided to give finance and property permission to replace the unit and A-coil.  We have one bid and they will get another.  We also discussed replacing the other units at a later date.  David reported on notes from Mary Ellen Woltmann about the Antique Walk.  We need to think about raising the price of our sandwiches. The interior painting project is progressing.  It was also noted that we begin paying Robin and Connie beginning in May.  This will be retroactive.

New Business

The by-laws for First Presbyterian church were reviewed with changes noted.  No other action was taken.  We will review them later.  Robin Tooley suggested we have a church float for the Fireman’s Parade on August 4^th.  We ok’d this.  Kathy will talk to Robin.

The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

The next meeting will be August 14, 2012 at 7 p.m.

Linda Ploen

Clerk of Session

May Gleaner 2012

In the back of my mind, and the front and the middle, are thoughts like, “What should we be doing as God’s church in the community where we are living?” I know we do things but I’m always thinking I should do more; we should do more.

We’re in the season of Easter and its spring outside with new life revealing itself everywhere we look, flowers, calves, baby sheep and goats. And with this new season shouldn’t we be thinking of new things we could do to serve Christ…and our community?

I know we support the Food Pantry, Good Guys, Traveler’s Aid, Crop Walk, Angel Tree and such but…could we do more? I know, we’re all older and none of us are exactly wealthy but…God hasn’t called us home yet either.

So, you’re thinking, “What’s he want us to do now?” I don’t have anything concrete in mind; it’s just that I’ve been thinking about what Jesus would be doing if he were living with us.

What was he doing when he did live here? He was out among the ordinary people teaching, eating, praying, and healing.

So, I’ve got the eating and praying part down, I think, and I believe the rest of you do too. That leaves the teaching and healing parts.

I’ve never attempted to heal anyone, just put on Band-Aids or ointment and give aspirin. That probably doesn’t qualify as healing. But does sitting with a friend who is fighting depression because life has become too hard for them, is that healing?

Does telling a little one about how you talk to God every day and ask Him to watch out for them, is that teaching? Inviting a neighbor to come to worship with you might also meet the criteria for a teacher.

Today I have been listening to Landon Whitsitt, a young, smart 30 something pastor from Kansas, lecture us about the church as an open-source church.  Open source refers to computer programs that are free to anyone.

What if the church was free to anyone, literally free, no exclusions, no restrictions, nothing? What would that be like? This is radical thinking but it’s exactly what Jesus was doing in Galilee.

            Friends, what is God’s mission for us here and are we actively participating in it? That’s the question.

            Easter blessings my friends,

          Pastor David

           

Presbyterian Women

Thanks to everyone who brought food for the Lenten service meal, Golden Oldies luncheon, Linn Johnk memorial lunch and prizes/cakes for Peace Haven Birthday Bingo.

Thanks to Gloria Myers for her presentation at the April meeting. 

It’s been a busy March and April with more to come in May.

Presbyterian Women will honor our 2012 high school seniors; Drew Cable, Ty Johnk, Bailey Neilsen, Jared Ploen and Connor Sievers on Wednesday, May 2^nd in the church dining room at 3:15.  All Presbyterian women are welcome to attend as is anyone from our church family who might be interested.  Please rsvp if you plan to attend.

Guest Day/Mother’s Day Breakfast

Tuesday, May 1^st, from 8:30-10:00 AM, Peace United Church is hosting a May Day Breakfast.

Saturday, May 5^th Peace United Church is inviting the women to their “Guest Day” at

9:30 AM.  The program will be presented by Betty Johnson on “Dolls of the History Trails” featuring the Orphan Train.  Please let Charlotte know if you plan to attend.

                   If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back.

Thank-you

Thank-you to the Presbyterian Women for the Easter Lilies in memory of loved ones

                  To Ross and Jean Bornholdt in memory of Laurie

                   To Barb Eslick in memory of Bill

                    To the Myers family in memory of Jean and Louis

Thank-you to Kathy Hansen for decorating the church basement for our Easter Brunch and

     providing all the prizes for children and adults.

Thank-you to Pam Nielsen, Teri Abel, Bobbi McDermott, Linda Ploen and Willa Petersen 

     for the delicious brunch on Easter morning.

 BIG thank-you to Linda Ploen for being the “Worship Leader” while Pastor David was gone on Pilgrimage.

Where is God?

             Two little boys, ages 8 and 10, were excessively mischievous.  They were always getting into trouble and their parents knew if any mischief occurred in their town, the two boys were probably involved.  The boys’ mother heard that a preacher in town had been successful in disciplining children, so she asked if he would speak with her boys.  The preacher agreed, but he asked to see them individually.  The mother sent the 8-year-old to him the next morning, with the older boy to see the preacher in the afternoon.  The preacher, a huge man with a deep booming voice, sat the younger boy down and asked him sternly, “Do you know where God is, son?”  The boy’s mouth dropped open, but he made no response, sitting there wide-eyed with his mouth hanging open.  So the preacher repeated the question in an even sterner tone, “Where is God?”  Again, the boy made no attempt to answer.  The preacher raised his voice even more and shook his finger in the boy’s face and bellowed, “WHERE IS GOD?!”  The boy screamed and bolted from the room, ran directly home and dove into his closet, slamming the door behind him.  When his older brother found him in the closet, he asked, “What happened?”  The younger brother, gasping for breath, replied, “We are in BIG trouble this time!” 

                                 “GOD is missing, and they think WE did it!”

Bible School

We will be hosting Bible School this year.  Kathy Hansen and Michelle Mertz are co-chairman.  We will again be sharing with Peace Church.  Dates for Bible School are June 4^th-8^th, 6:00-8:00 with the program June 8^th at 6:00.  Bible School is open to 3-year-olds through 5^th grade.  The theme for this year’s Bible School is “Splash In God’s Word”.  Bible School will be held at Peace Church to be closer to the Splash Pad.

Antique Walk Food Stand

June 15^th-17th will be the Antique Walk.  The work schedule will be in the June Gleaner. 

When you are going through something hard and wonder where God is, remember the teacher is always quiet during a test.

June Ushers and Communion Servers

Ushers:  Steve & Michelle Sunderman, Betty Sunderman

Communion Servers: Jim Tooley-chm, Betty Sunderman, Val Sievers & Dennis Jensen

                                                Flowers for May

                                      May 6------------Teresa Griffith

                                      May 13------------Linda Ploen

                                      May 20---------- Linda Ploen

                                      May 27-----------Barb Eslick

         

                                                                       Session Minutes

April 10, 2012

The session of Walnut First Presbyterian church met in regular session on April 10^th at 7 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex.  Those in attendance were: Linda Krueger, Jim Tooley, Linda Ploen, Jim McDermott, Jack Ploen, and Kathy Hansen.  Absent were: Margo Matthies, Michelle Mertz, Allan Sievers and Mike Mertz.

Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer, scripture from John 1: 3-10 and a reflection entitled “Good News”.

The minutes of the March meeting were read and approved.

The treasurer’s report was accepted as given.

The pastor’s report was given and approved.  Pastor David will be attending the Heartland Presbytery’s Lectures in Kansas City on April 23 and 24 and the Daniel Nelson Lectures on May 15^th.

There was no clerk’s report.

David officiated at the funeral of Linn Johnk, who passed away on February 21^st and his memorial service was on March 24^th.  Burial was at Layton Twp. Cemetery.  He also conducted the funeral of Byron Martin on March 26^th.  On April 1^st, David baptized Tyler DeLee Hansen, son of Robert and Amy Hansen.

Stewardship and Mission

Linda K. reported on the Pentecost offering.  It was moved and 2^nd to accept this offering.  Forty percent of it stays to help youth in Walnut.  She also mentioned “Blankets for World Service”.  Perhaps the offering received at Bible School could go towards this.

Christian Education

Kathy Hansen reported that Bible School will be June 4-8^th from 6-8 p.m.  The theme is “Splash in God’s Word”.  Our church is in charge of Bible School, but it will be held at the Peace Church so the kids can be closer to the Splash Pod.  She also reported that she had several flyers on mission opportunities and fun activities for youth.  David noted that there has been an interest in an adult Bible Study.  It was mentioned that perhaps it could be held after church during Sunday School hour.

Worship

Communion was served to 5 residents at Peace Haven on April 1^st.  George Mertz served as elder.  David will be at Pilgrimage on April 22^nd.  Linda Ploen will conduct the service that day.  A big thank you was given to Kathy Hansen for all she does and for all the fun things she gave on Easter Sunday.

Finance and Property

Jim Tooley reported that the committee is still looking into bids for the interior church painting.  Justen is still looking for a door stop that will work on our new front door.  Kathy Hansen volunteered to paint the shed out back of the church.  Jim Tooley asked for permission to purchase a plaque for our sound and visual equipment in memory of William Sievers and Herb and Marie Mertz.  Permission was granted.  He also read a letter from the attorney, James Sulhoff, stating that the church was mentioned in the will of Linn Johnk as one of the benefactors.

Personnel

David read a letter from Robin Tooley asking for our thoughts on possible day camps for kids on days they don’t have school.  We agreed to support this, as we encourage anything for the kids.

New Business

David stated that we need to have a special meeting to discuss our church’s by-laws.

The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Next meeting will be May 8, 2012 at 7 p.m.

Linda Ploen

Clerk of Session

Paddy was driving down the street in a sweat because he had an important meeting with his banker and he couldn’t find a parking place.

Looking up toward heaven, he said, “Lord, take pity on me.  If you find me a parking place, I will go to church every Sunday for the rest of my life and give up my Irish Whiskey.”

Miraculously, a parking place appeared.  Paddy looked up again and said “Never mind, Lord.  I just found one.”                                                                           

              The choir invites any member of the congregation who enjoys sinning to join he choir.

Gleaner April 2012

PASTOR’S NOTES

The season of Lent is fast coming to an end. This coming Sunday we remember and celebrate Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. He, and his disciples, was on the final leg of his journey to the cross, and the tomb.

April 2^nd will be the beginning of Holy Week. Each day of Holy Week the church will be open from 7-7. A labyrinth with 10 stations will be created in the church basement. This is being set up jointly with United Church of Avoca to provide a space where folks may come and reflect on the path Jesus walked from the Temple to the Upper Room to his trials to Golgotha to the Tomb.

We will have a week to reflect on this journey that actually began at 6 p.m. on April 6^th, 30 A.D. and ended at 4 p.m. April 7^th.

All of us will have an opportunity to put ourselves in Jesus’ sandals. Think about the thoughts that were racing through his brain as he prepared for what he knew was inevitable, what he knew God, his Father, had determined must happen in order for humanity to be saved. What turmoil and anxiety he must have experienced as he sat at the Passover meal with his disciples. What was he feeling as he prayed in the Gethsemane? What was the depth of his sorrow, with what kind of passion did he pray so that he perspired so profusely? What kind of fear was he feeling? Did he doubt?

And yet, he left it all in God’s hands. He trusted in the will of his Father. This sacrifice of one human had the potential to be just another man dying on the cross, the sacrifice negligible. He knew the suffering he would be experiencing and the waiting for it all to begin and then be over must have been excruciating. What extraordinary courage it must have taken.

It was all worth it in God’s eyes, victory over death, eternal life for those who believed. Think of what Jesus experienced and then think about our responsibility after receiving such a gift.

It is all grace. How could God do such a thing? We find it hard to imagine such love. What does God ask of us who willingly receive this gift of grace?

Friends, we pray that you will take advantage of this time to reflect and meditate on the sacrifice God made for us in Jesus, the Messiah.

Grace and peace from God, our Father, and his Son, Jesus,

Pastor David

                                  It’s Spring!

                           We’re so excited

                           We wet our plants!

Maundy Thursday/Good Friday

A joint Maundy Thursday/Good Friday service is being planned for Thursday April 5^th at

6 PM.  United Church of Avoca will be joining us for this service.  (no meal)

                                     Thank-you

Thank-you to Kathy Hansen for the roses for everyone on Valentine’s Day.

Thank-you to Jim Tooley for mailing the birthday cards in February.

Thank-you to Linda Ploen for leading the worship while the Pastor was on vacation.

Thank-you to Justen Tooley for installing our new door.

Thank-you to Robin Tooley and the whole Sunday School for leading the worship after their “Lock-In”

                                            Humor

             Three sisters age 92, 94, and 96 all live in a house together.  One night the 96-year-old draws a bath.  She puts her foot in and pauses.  She yells to the other sisters, “Was I getting in or out of the bath? 

             The 94-year-old yells back, “I don’t know.  I’ll come up and see.”  She starts up the stairs and pauses, “Was I going up the stairs or down?”

             The 92-year-old is sitting at the kitchen table drinking a cup of tea and listening to her sisters.  She shakes her head and says, “I sure hope I never get that forgetful.”  She then knocks on wood for good luck.

             She then yells, “I’ll come up and help both of you as soon as I see who’s at the door.”

May Ushers and Communion Servers

Ushers: Chuck/Linda Ploen, George Mertz, Alice Richter

Communion Servers:  Linda Ploen-chm., Chuck Ploen, Kathy Hansen, George Mertz

April ushers and communion servers are at the bottom of  the calendar.

                                         Flowers for April

                              April 1-----------PW Easter Lilies

                              April 8-----------PW Easter Lilies

                              April 15----------Bonnie Holtz

                              April 22----------Darlene Stuart

                              April 22----------Darlene Stuart

                                                 Sunday School Bloopers

Noah’s wife was Joan of Ark

The people who followed Jesus were called the 12 Decibels.

The epistles were the wives of the apostles.

One of the oppossums was St. Matthew.

The Jews had trouble throughout their history with unsympathetic Genitals.

A Christian should have only one wife.  This is called monotony.

                                              Presbyterian Women

Presbyterian Women met March 7^th in the church basement.  Wendy Richter presented a program.

about the Family Crisis Center in Atlantic.  She told the group about the services that are available

through the center.  They serve all victims of crime (not just domestic abuse) through shelter,

counseling, advocacy and education.  The center serves up to 800 victims a year.

The next meeting will be April 4^th at 1:30 at the church.  The annual Spring Gathering will be

 April 14^th at the Church of the Master with a program titled “Let the Little Children Come To Me”.

They say one day your whole life will flash before your eyes.  Make it worth watching.

                                                          Sympathy

Our sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Linn Dale Johnk.  Linn passed away

at his home in Council Bluffs on February 21^st at the age of 61.   His memorial service

was held at our church on March 24^th.

Linn was the only son of Virgil and Florence Johnk (both deceased).  He is survived

by his Aunt Vera (Milton) Mueller of Walnut and cousins.

Session Minutes

March 13, 2012

The session of Walnut First Presbyterian Church met in regular session on March 13^th at 7 p.m. in the Sunday School south annex.  Those in attendance were: Margo Matthies, Linda Krueger, Jim Tooley, Linda Ploen and Kathy Hansen.  Absent were: Jim McDermott, Jack Ploen, Michelle Mertz, Allan Sievers and Mike Mertz.

Moderator David Krueger opened the meeting with prayer and a reflection entitled “Journey to the Cross” based on John 2: 13-22.

The minutes of the annual corporate meeting were read and approved.  The minutes of the January 10, 2012 were also read and approved.

The treasurer’s report was accepted as given.

Robin Tooley and Margo Matthies then reported on the progress of the committee to paint the interior of the sanctuary.  They have one bid of $3,200 and will be getting another.  They are open to any suggestions or ideas from anyone. 

David then presented his report for the months of January and February.  The report was approved as presented.  Pastor David asked for permission to officiate the wedding of LeAnn Larsen Blotzer and Terry McCarthy on March 17^th.  Permission granted.  Permission was also given for the baptism of Tyler DeLee Hansen, son of Amy and Robert Hansen. 

Linda Ploen read a thank-you from Robin Tooley and Dave Heilig for the scholarship money to attend a Christian couple’s retreat.

The death of Linn Johnk was reported.  His memorial service will be Saturday, March 24^th at our church.

COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS FOR 2012

Since this was the first meeting of the new term, commit ignments were made.  They are as follows:  Worship-Linda Ploen & Jack Ploen, Stewardship-Linda Krueger & Margo Matthies, Christian Ed. –Kathy Hansen & Michelle Mertz, Finance and Property-Jim McDermott, Jim Tooley and Allan Sievers.

STEWARDSHIP & MISSION

Linda Krueger reported that the One Great Hour of Sharing offering is ready to pass out.  She also reported that Minot, North Dakota has asked for assistance and the Presbytery is providing assistance for tornado victims.

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

The Sunday School lock-in was a success with 18 kids attending.  Bible School will be at our church this year.  Our youth is still planning to do the 30 hour famine this spring.

WORSHIP

David and Pastor Nancy will be meeting to plan the Maundy Thursday service.  Easter sunrise service will be at 7:00 a.m. with breakfast to follow.  Pastor David will be at Great Plains Presbyterian Pilgrimage on Sunday, April 22^nd.  He is serving as spiritual advisor.  Communion was served to 4 residents at Peace haven on March 4^th.  Jim McDermott was the serving elder.

FINANCE & PROPERTY

Jim Tooley reported that the glass above the front door was replaced and a door closer has been ordered to put on the new door to keep the wind from damaging it.  Jim is also working on the organ dolly.  He also read a letter from the Red Cross asking if our church would serve as a shelter in case of an emergency.  It was moved and 2^nd to do this.  Motion carried.  Jim will fill out the forms, and someone will have to come and inspect our facilities.  It was also mentioned that perhaps we could serve as a place for the Red Cross blood drive.  Kathy Hansen also volunteered to paint the pie cabinet for the Antique Walk.

NEW BUSINESS

We need to review our church by-laws.  It was moved and 2^nd to donate $100 a quarter to the Good Guys.  Motion carried.  We also received word from Presbytery recommending we raise David’s continuing education fund from $853 to $1066.  It was moved and 2^nd to do so.  We also received a letter from PMRV Committee on Ministry Care Team for our church.  The committee sent a reminder that a member of their committee is available to come to a session meeting.  We should do this. 

The meeting was closed with the Lord’s Prayer.

Our next meeting will be April 10^th, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.

Linda Ploen

Clerk of Session